OCT. 16, 2020 VOL. 28 | ISSUE 24 READ IT ONLINE! @la_courier

9000 Babcock Boulevard | Pittsburgh, Pa 15237 | 412-367-9300 | laroche.edu

© Sarah Hefferin Associate editor-in-chief Sarah Hefferin used a drone to photograph part of the La Roche campus. Circled is the Holy Ground Woodland Reflection Area. Holy Ground Students react to Woodland LRU’s handling of Reflection Area covid-19 pandemic By Steven Munshower By Julia Felton Associate Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief

oing to college during a than ever to balance physical and n a survey regarding La Roche’s where, including ours, should have pandemic can be rather mental health. One of the simplest handling of the covid-19 pan- lowered tuition rates since we’re stressful. Students, in gen- ways to achieve this is a brief walk demic, nearly 80 percent of stu- not getting a full college experience Geral, are facing increased levels of in nature. Click the link below to ex- Idents said they learned less in on- by sitting at home on a computer,” anxiety, while attempting to adapt to plore a peaceful area of our campus: line classes last semester than they Juliana Wayman, a sophomore ma- this new world. It is more important would have in the classroom. joring in elementary and special The survey, which collected education, said. responses from 55 sophomore, The survey asked students to rate junior and senior students at La their transition to remote learning Roche, discussed how students felt after the campus closure in March. about La Roche’s response to the Forty percent of students rated the covid-19 pandemic in the spring. transition as somewhat or very dif- It also revealed how students feel ficult. About fifteen percent said about La Roche’s restrictions and the transition was okay. The re- instruction this semester. mainder said it was somewhat or Approximately 78 percent of very easy. respondents said they learned less The transition seemed to be eas- once their classes moved online. ier for commuter students. Seven- Less than four percent claimed they teen commuters ranked the move learned more. The remainder said to online learning as very or some- their online learning was equiva- what easy, compared to only eight © Erin Ross lent to their in-person education. resident students who said it was Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HXAv3pxXg9w&featu “I think since everything is See Survey, Page 18 re=youtu.be pushed online, colleges every- 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 - October 16, 2020 2 Voting Guide

Do you have questions about how to cast your ballot in the 2020 presidential election? Here’s a quick voting guide for Pennsylvania voters.

By Julia Felton Editor-in-Chief Important Dates Absentee vs. Mail-In Ballots • Register to vote by 5 p.m. on Oct. 19 Absentee: Mail-In: • If you plan to vote with an absentee or mail-in Absentee ballots are an op- Mail-in ballots are available to ballot, apply for one by 5 p.m. on Oct. 27 tion for people who are unable anyone registered to vote in to vote in person for a specific Pennsylvania. You don’t need • Election day is Nov. 3 reason, which you must disclose a reason to request a mail-in • Return mail-in and absentee ballots by 8 p.m. when you apply for an absen- ballot. on Nov. 3 tee ballot. Absentee ballots are This is the first year that mail-in available for college students ballots have been available for Your ballot will be counted as long as it’s postmarked by Nov. 3 and who are not registered to vote at Pennsylvania voters. at the elections office by Nov. 6. their school address.

Here’s how to vote in the upcoming election You can track your mail-in or In-Person Absentee or Mail-In Ballots absentee ballot at Voting PAVoterServices. Polling places will be open You can apply for an absentee marked by 8 p.m. on Nov. 3, from 7 a.m. till 8 p.m. on Nov. or mail-in ballot at VotesPA. but the elections office will pa.gov. 3. As long as you’re in line by com. You also can apply in accept ballots in the mail 8 p.m., you’ll be permitted to person at the county election through Nov. 6. You can also cast your ballot. office or request a paper appli- return your ballot in per- For more If you’re not sure where your cation form from the Depart- son to your county elections polling place is, you can find ment of State. office. information, out using the Polling Place Once you receive your bal- If you apply for an absentee or mail- visit Search Tool on VotesPA.com. lot in the mail, you can mark in ballot, but do not receive one, you can still vote in person at your poll- If this is your first time vot- your ballot using a blue or ing place using a provisional ballot. VotesPA.com ing, or your first time voting black pen or black lead pencil. If you receive a mail-in or absentee at a new polling precinct, Place the completed ballot ballot, then decide you’d prefer to or you’ll need to show identifica- inside the secrecy envelope. vote in person, you can take your PAVoterServices. tion. A Pennsylvania driver’s Make sure to sign the Voter’s ballot packet (the ballot and enve- license, PennDOT ID card, Declaration on the envelope. lopes) to your polling place. Poll workers will spoil the ballot and you pa.gov. passport or student ID will To return your ballot, you can can vote in person instead. suffice. mail it. It needs to be post- No excuse not to vote this election By Julia Felton Editor-in-Chief

t often seems that Americans Day. That is, after all, what over take voting rights for granted The freedom to vote cost no fewer than 41 million American men and – but we shouldn’t. 41,892,128 American lives lost in wars women died for over the course IAfter all, the basic democrat- of our nation’s wars to secure de- ic rights we have today were far defending our freedoms. mocracy. from free. The freedom to vote This country doesn’t ask much cost no fewer than 41,892,128 with life-changing wounds and seems that driving to your poll- of its citizens. American lives lost in wars de- mental and emotional scars. Nor ing place – or requesting a ballot American citizens enjoy a fending our freedoms from the is that counting the men and to come to you in the mail – is great deal of freedom. In a 2019 years 1775 through 1991, accord- women who continue sacrificing hardly too much to ask. report, the Cato Institute ranked ing to the Department of Veter- their lives in America’s ongoing After all, democracy is predi- the nation as the 15th freest na- ans Affairs. conflicts. cated on the notion that citizens That’s not counting the mil- Considering the sacrifices our are involved. It’s imperative that See Voting Editorial, lions of veterans who came home fellow Americans have made, it we exercise our rights on Election Page 19

Read more at courier.laroche.edu Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 3 Politics Joe Biden wins La Roche A brief mock presidential election history

By Julia Felton of heated Editor-in-Chief

emocratic candidate Joe elections Biden won a mock elec- By Julia Felton tion at La Roche Uni- Editor-in-Chief Dversity, earning 52 percent of the votes. olitical divisions are com- The election, which the Cou- ing to the forefront as the rier hosted in October, garnered presidential election nears P– but there’s a long history that responses from 113 students. Biden earned 59 votes, approx- brought us to where we are today. imately 52 percent. President As Dr. Joshua Forrest, the chair Donald Trump tallied 51 votes, of La Roche’s history and political roughly 45 percent. Three votes, science departments, explained, just under three percent, went to there have been contentious elec- Jo Jorgensen, the Libertarian can- tions before. “You’d have to go all the way didate. © Julia Felton “I am voting for Joe Biden be- back to the 19th century to find cause he genuinely cares about Former Vice President Joe Biden earned 52 percent of votes in La similar levels of political polar- everyone and wants to help the Roche’s mock election. President Donald Trump tallied approximately ization at election time,” Forrest country improve,” a Biden sup- 45 percent of votes, while Libertarian candidate Jo Jorgensen pulled just said. Forrest pointed to the election porter said. “I’d rather have a under three percent of mock ballots. president who rules by love.” of 1828 – when Democrat An- “Donald Trump earns my vote he is going to do, and he wants to didate earned their vote because drew Jackson ousted incumbent because he is against abortion, protect our country and the peo- they disapproved of both major Republican President John Quin- promotes school choice, pro- ple in our country.” party candidates. cy Adams – and the election of motes tax cuts, and has made a Several voters from both sides Of the respondents, approxi- 1884 – when Democratic nomi- strong economy, and works hard said they voted for one candidate mately 42 percent said they were nee Grover Cleveland beat Re- and cares for the country and the simply because they didn’t like publican nominee James Blaine – American people,” one Trump the other. One Jorgensen sup- See Mock Election, as prime examples of contentious voter said. “He does what he says porter said the third-party can- Page 14 elections. “Andrew Jackson in 1828 and James Blaine in 1884 were both ill-tempered and spoke with de- rision about their electoral op- First presidential debate ponents,” Forrest said. “Uncouth, ill-tempered, with their verbal attacks on their opponents pep- pered with personal insults, and labeled “chaotic” their electoral campaigns marked By Max Robinette by constant accusations of cor- Contributing Writer ruption.” The 1860 election – a four-way he first debate between The night took off to a quick with the election so close at hand, race that ended with the election President Trump and for- start. With many traditional de- the nomination should be de- of Republican Abraham Lincoln mer Vice-President Joe bate conventions being ignored, layed until after the vote is tallied. – was infamously divisive. Elev- TBiden took place at the Case West- both candidates jumped into “People have already mailed en states seceded from the Union ern Reserve and Cleveland Clinic their arguments surrounding the in their ballots. If [President in response to Lincoln’s election, in the battleground state of Ohio recent Supreme Court nomina- Trump] wins reelection, that’s spurring the only war to arise as on Sept. 29. tion of Judge Amy Coney Barrett. fine. But we got to see what they the result of a presidential elec- The event has been noted by Trump, who throughout the want before deciding the nomi- tion in American history. major news organizations as be- debate often played the role of nation,” Biden said. But Forrest noted that most ing “chaotic,” with interruptions the antagonist, argued that the An awkward moment came presidential campaigns are “rela- and name-calling coming from American people had granted for Biden when asked whether tively civil and respectful in de- both sides of the stage. him and the Republican majority he would add two justices to the bates,” despite commonly stark The debate was moderated by Senate the right to nominate and court in order to stack it with disagreements on policy. Fox News anchor Chris Wallace appoint a Supreme Court Justice more liberal appointees. The for- “Certainly once we get to the and was split into six discussion in a timely fashion. mer vice president declined to 20-21st centuries there is no pres- sections: the Supreme Court; co- “We won the election and elec- answer. idential contest that matches the vid-19; the economy; racial ten- tions have consequences. I’m not The economic portion of the level of vitriol we’ve seen this year sions in the US; violence in cities; elected for three years, I’m elected debate was met with more frus- in the presidential campaign,” he the past records of each candi- to four years,” Trump said. tration for the audience. The mat- said. date; and the integrity of the elec- Biden’s rebuttal laid no attack See Debate, Page 16 See Election History, tion. on Judge Barrett, but claimed Page 20

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 4 Covid-19 More Comparing college students in covid-19 testing strategies quarantine, By Kathleen Kenna though cases Contributing Writer

esting for covid-19 is a crit- to take a covid-19 test in or- remain at 1 ical issue surrounding the ment. I will then be notified if the der to return to campus. Many test is positive.” By Julia Felton pandemic. There are many other schools in Pennsylvania Editor-in-Chief Tquestions a resident of the United It is important that a student implement the same techniques: follows this step so, if they do test States might have. Are they safe? a Roche announced an in- symptom screening and contract positive, La Roche can contact Are they accurate? And – most of- crease in quarantined stu- tracing. La Roche encourages stu- those who may have been in con- ten – where can I get one? dents, though the school dents to seek a test if they experi- tact with them. Compared to other countries, Lhas not seen any new cases of co- ence symptoms, or if they come The test only takes a few min- the United States was slow to re- vid-19. in contact with someone who utes. However, students should lease covid-19 tests and testing In an email sent to students on tests positive for the virus. be aware that they might have to strategies. President Trump left Oct. 9, Chief Pandemic Safety Of- If a student needs to get tested, perform the nasal swab on them- the responsibility of this strategy ficer Rosemary McCarthy report- there are a few options. Rosemary selves. to state governments. Just as dif- ed that 31 La Roche students are McCarthy, Chief Pandemic Safety Some schools in Pennsylvania ferent states have their own strat- currently quarantined. Officer, suggests going to the CVS require and provide free covid-19 egies for testing, so do colleges Nineteen of those students that is located in McCandless testing. At Pennsylvania State and universities. were quarantining on campus as Crossing. University in Centre County, The Center for Disease Con- of Oct. 9, McCarthy said. “It is a free and fairly simple 30,000 students came from areas trol (CDC) released suggestions But La Roche’s covid-19 case process,” McCarthy said. Students deemed “high-risk coronavirus for how institutions of higher tally remained at one. can register for a test on the CVS areas.” The school required them education can create safe and “We have groups of students website. McCarthy urges students to take a test, and those with posi- healthy spaces for their students. who are either holding parties on to use their La Roche address or tive results had to quarantine be- The CDC outlines “consider- campus or attending events off their home address if they live in fore attending class. ations on the appropriate use of campus together, while not fol- Allegheny County. Penn State is also randomly testing.” These considerations are lowing proper protocol,” McCar- She said, “This will ensure that testing about one percent of the not required. the results will be sent to the Al- thy said, noting the incidents of La Roche students know that legheny County Health Depart- the school did not require them See Covid Tests, Page 18 See Covid Update, Page 19 The Courier Staff Editor-in-Chief Contributing Writers Julia Felton Lucia Bou Durgham Kathleen Kenna Anna Kleinschnitz Associate Editor-in-Chief Max Robinette Sarah Hefferin Ed Stankowski V

Associate Editor-in-Chief Courier Advisory Council Steven Munshower Rebecca Pasqua Sarah Reichle

Associate Editor Faculty Advisor Madeline Riccardi Ed Stankowski

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 5 Courier Call Hear the Courier Staff Answer the Question: What Halloween icon would you vote for as President?

I’m voting for the mummy of an Egyptian pharaoh. I think ruling Egypt would classify as some pretty good leadership experience. In a lot of ways, the Egyptian civilization was one of the most ad- vanced in history, so I bet an Egyptian pharaoh I would vote for Morticia Addams because it’s would have some interesting things to teach us! about time we had a fabulous president. She Plus, it’d be pretty cool to have a pyramid hidden loves her family and, despite the spookiness, somewhere in DC. Imagine the mummy of Nefertiti has good values. being the first female president!

-Kathleen Kenna, Contributing Writer - Julia Felton, Editor-in-Chief

I would vote for the Creature from the Black Lagoon. He was captured I would vote for Jack Skelengton because and terrorized by people, so I feel like Halloween would then be a year-long he would do everything he can to make holiday! sure everyone is safe and healthy.

-Sarah Hefferin, Associate Editor-in-Chief -Madeline Riccardi, Associate Editor

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 6 On Campus SGA emphasizes Covid-19 impacts racial justice dining services By Julia Felton By Julia Felton Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief he Student Government best things we can do,” Kon said ike everything else at La chance to get food.” Association (SGA) is of the mural. Roche this year, dining Redhawk hours are, however, working around covid-19 SGA did not have a design or services at La Roche have cut down from last year, Padolf Tobstacles to reach individual and specific location for the mural Lchanged due to covid-19. admitted. She said there was a group goals, including a call for a planned yet. Perhaps one of the biggest dif- study of community participation racial justice mural. Frances did specify that he ferences students have noticed preceding the decision to limit SGA President Natasha Flor- wanted to have the mural indoors. is changes to dining schedules. hours at Redhawk. ence said she wanted SGA to “With it being inside, it can Redhawk is now open from 10 “With our new budget con- spearhead a project to install a be monitored. If anything was a.m. till 8 p.m. straints and very low numbers of Black Lives Matter mural on cam- to happen, it’s more likely they The dining hall serves break- students ordering during certain pus. She was working with Ex- would be caught,” he said, sug- fast from 7:30 a.m. till 9:30 a.m. hours, it made sense for us to re- ecutive Vice President Ammiel gesting people would be less likely with a continental breakfast from duce the hours to best accommo- Francis, Secretary Gracie Kon to tamper with an indoor mural. 9:30 a.m. till 10:30 a.m. Lunch is date the students, staff and faculty, and Director of Non-Traditional The SGA board unanimously available from 11 a.m. till 2 p.m. as well as to do the best we can for Students Tashai Thompson to approved moving ahead with the and dinner is from 4 p.m. till 6 the community in maximizing La push for the mural. mural. Florence said next steps p.m. Roche’s resources,” Padolf said. “It’s a mural that would push would include seeking permis- “Our hours are not limited, Beginning Oct. 12, meal for welcoming inclusivity and sion from La Roche President Sis- they are just not what everyone is equivalency at Redhawk will be tolerance – not just a work of art, ter Candace Introcaso. used to,” Susan Padolf, the assis- expanded from 6 p.m. till 8 p.m., but a social justice statement,” The project would not be affili- tant director of SAGE Dining at Padolf added. Frances said, claiming it was not ated with the official Black Lives La Roche, said. “In these difficult La Roche’s meal plan options a political statement. Matter organization, Frances said. times, things had to be adjusted. and costs are the same this year “If we want people to feel com- We have made accommodations fortable, I think this is one of the See SGA, Page 15 to make sure everyone has a See Dining Hall, Page 15 Dorm-friendly recipes By Madeline Riccardi Associate Editor French toast in a mug Chocolate chip cookies Do you ever want homemade Recipe breakfast food, but don’t want 1. Cut the bread into cubes of to run to the dining hall to grab your desired size. in a mug some? This recipe is doable 2. Put the 1 tablespoon of butter Everyone likes cookies when they Recipe anywhere, as long as you have the into your mug. Microwave it for are warm, but La Roche only 1. Put the 1 tablespoon of butter ingredients and a microwave. 20 seconds. serves cold cookies. This recipe into your mug. Melt the butter 3. Add the cubed bread into the requires a microwave and nine in the microwave. Ingredients cup of melted butter. ingredients. 2. Add the sugar, vanilla extract, - 1 mug 4. In a separate bowl, mix the and a sprinkle of Kosher salt - 2 slices of sandwich bread egg, 1 tablespoon of milk, a Ingredients to the melted butter. Stir them - 1 egg sprinkle of cinnamon, and two - 1 mug together. - 1 tablespoon butter drops of vanilla extract. - 1 tablespoon butter 3. Separate the egg yolk using a - 3 tablespoons milk 5. Pour the mixture made in -1 tablespoon white sugar spoon. Add the egg yolk to the - Cinnamon sprinkle Step 4 into the mug with the -1 tablespoon brown sugar mixture. Stir. - 2 drops vanilla extract bread and butter. -3 drops of vanilla extract 4. Add the all-purpose flour to - Syrup (optional) 6. Let it sit for two minutes to -Kosher salt the mixture. Stir. The mixture allow the bread to absorb the -1 egg yolk will now become a dense cookie mixture. -1/4 cup all-purpose flour dough. 7. Microwave it for one minute -2 tablespoons chocolate chips 5. Stir in the chocolate chips. and 20 seconds. 6. Cook the dough in the micro- 8. Add syrup if desired. wave for 40-60 seconds, de- 9. Serve warm. pending on your cookie texture preference. Do not microwave for more than 60 seconds. 7. Serve warm.

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 7 People English professor pens poetry book

By Sarah Hefferin Associate Editor-in-Chief

t was a bright and sunny day Air Settling Around Us,” is a col- when Dr. Michelle Maher lection of poetry created from stopped to stare at the sky in her own life—one filled with joy, Ithe Wexford Plaza parking lot. She grief, and challenges. She worked was going to grab an iced tea and a closely with the poets Jan Beatty loaf of bread when the puffy white and Maddie Barnes, Maher’s el- clouds caught her attention. dest daughter, who is also a poet. So she snapped a photo. Both helped her edit the manu- It was for her new book of po- script and order the poems with- etry which, at the time, was com- in her book. As she came to the ing out very soon. Maher knew final stretch, Maher involved her that she wanted the cover to whole family, who each took the showcase a photo of clouds, and time to read over the manuscript that day seemed to be perfect. and give their feedback. Maher points to the bird she She describes her poems as caught in the photo. She hoped those inspired by family, living for a dove, poignant and gentle, through adversity, the death of but said that it was probably a loved ones, and the power of art. hawk. It made the cover anyway. She also drew from her experi- Courtesy of Michelle Maher Maher’s book, titled “Bright See Maher, Page 21 AAUW scholarship memorializes sister who worked at La Roche By Julia Felton Editor-in-Chief

n annual scholarship fore moving into a role in project “She was the shoulder that the 80s, Yeasted noted that most awarded to a female se- achievement. She also served as they cried on,” Yeasted said. “She people at La Roche now don’t nior at La Roche honors an AAUW representative for the was like their counselor.” remember her. Yeasted said she Athe memory of a member of the school. Kelly’s service extended be- hopes the scholarship will keep Sisters of Divine Providence con- Kelly died of breast cancer in yond her tenure at La Roche. Be- her memory alive and ensure her gregation who was an important, 1988. fore joining the university staff, work isn’t forgotten. beloved fixture at the college. But her spirit remains alive she’d spent 24 years working with “Sister Matilda was a wonder- The Sister Matilda Kelly Incen- through the scholarship program. the poor in Puerto Rico, Yeasted fully warm human being,” Yeasted tive Grant is awarded through the Sister Rita Yeasted, an Eng- said. said. “Everybody loved her. She American Association of Univer- lish professor who worked with “She worked with the rich and was kind. She was a wonderful sity Women (AAUW). It memo- Kelly, said she remembers Kelly’s the poor, but I think her heart was teacher.” rializes Kelly, who worked at La dedication to women who were always with the people who didn’t She even helped in the forma- Roche for 18 years. She worked returning students. Many of the have it,” Yeasted said. tion of the scholarship that now as La Roche’s director of admis- women she worked with had fam- Though Kelly was an impor- bears her name. sions for much of that time be- ilies or other jobs, Yeasted said. tant fixture at La Roche during See Kelly, Page 17 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.

[email protected]

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 8 Environment Recent wildfires in the west could spark long-term consequences By Ed Stankowski V Contributing Writer

he recent wildfires in Cali- altered weather patterns signifi- the fires have burned homes and as COPD or asthma is at much fornia, Oregon, and Wash- cantly. National Weather Service infrastructure, they contain un- greater risk of illness from this ington will have substantial meteorologists concluded that usually dangerous compounds. smoke. Tlong-term consequences. There is the smoke particles would cause Immediate effects of exposure Fortunately, much of this is the obvious damage to the envi- increased rainfall in the area and include respiratory difficulties, limited to the west coast. The ronment and infrastructure, but cooler temperatures over a much headaches, and increased heart same jet stream that brings the there are more subtle effects. greater area. rate. smoke to western Pennsylvania As the smoke rose, it was A more dangerous and unpre- In the future there could be keeps it aloft at a relatively safe pulled into strong air currents dictable result of the fires is their more dangerous consequences. distance from vulnerable lungs. that propelled it east. This caused impact on public health. Michael Since this smoke is more con- It may lead to cooler weather, hazy skies as far east as the Neth- Jerrett of UCLA reports that a centrated and polluted than although that is already abating erlands. Fortunately, according to major concern is the smoke par- usual, there is very little data on as the smoke dissipates. What Sarah Gibbens and Amy McKeev- ticles’ small size. They are under its effects over extended periods. remains to be seen is how it will er of National Geographic, haz- a micron wide, less than ten per- People exposed to it could be at affect people closer to the fires. ardous compounds did not reach cent the width of a human hair. increased risk for heart disease, No matter the result, there will be the ground. Nonetheless, this im- This means they can easily slip strokes, depression, and anxi- consequences. mense cloud had a profound im- past the body’s filtration systems ety. Anyone who has respiratory pact. It was visible from space and and enter the bloodstream. Since or cardiovascular diseases such Pastel Petals Student condemns litter bugs at LRU ByAnna Kleinschnitz Contributing Writer The following editorial describes one student’s experiences with littering on campus. hen I came to La and I stopped to pick up a pizza Roche this year, I knew box. I walked it to the dumpster we’d be facing a virus to throw it away and as I did so, Wlike no other. What I didn’t expect, a passerby remarked on how though, was to be confronted with much litter they have noticed on an entirely different type of bug — campus as well. He told me that I the littering bug. should take a look at some of the © Madeline Riccardi Many times, as I have been other parking lots lower down walking to and from class, I have the hill. It was that moment that been bombarded with physical told me this was not a few off mo- evidence that we as a school are ments of someone forgetting a infected. Cups are strewn inter- cup or leaving a pizza box after an mittently between the bushes in outdoor picnic; this was a campus front of the chapel like some sort wide problem that resulted from of garden ornamentation. Every a lack of care. time I walk up a staircase, there is This lack of care extends past a new type of trash on full display just not being able to find a trash on the landings. can, it infects the trash cans For a few days in Bold Hall, themselves. Constantly, I see the someone had left a bowl of milk trash cans in front of the building with a spoon surrounded by the stuffed full of trash bags from the plastic wrappings the utensils residents in Bold, the extras that come in. Eventually, they came don’t fit into the over-full can are back for the bowl, but left the just thrown next to or nearby the plastic there; I’m glad they had trashcan. their priorities straight. Do we just not know where These irritated feelings culmi- the dumpsters are for our trash? nated when one day I was walk- © Madeline Riccardi See Littering, Page 16 ing through the lawn next to Bold

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 9 Autumn Lots of local fall fun for everyone By Kathleen Kenna Contributing Writer

s the leaves change and For pumpkin spiced latte lov- the weather grows cold, ers, there are many local coffee so comes the onslaught of shops that offer an alternative to Amemes depicting the “basic white Starbucks. girl”. Pictures of women with long Generoasta, located in Warren- hair and scarves are everywhere dale about 20 minutes away from on the internet. They drink pump- La Roche, has put their own spin kin spice lattes and pose throwing on pumpkin flavored lattes. They fallen leaves in the air with pump- have the traditional pumpkin kins all around. spice, but also the Pumpkin Pie, I, an admitted basic white girl with cinnamon and pumpkin; myself, am attempting to end this the Ghostly Pumpkin, with white stereotype and declare fall activi- chocolate and pumpkin; and the ties fun for everyone. Through Pumpkin Patch, with caramel, careful research, I’ve located candied orange, and pumpkin. places where anyone can enjoy Their drinks are always tasty, the weather and pumpkin fla- but their service is typically lack- vored coffee. ing. I ordered the Pumpkin Patch These so-called basic activities and I think I received the Pump- are perfect for any La Roche stu- kin Pie. It was delicious, but you dent. should be ready for a little sur- Despite covid’s reign this year, prise. there are still many safe ways to The closest coffee shop to La celebrate the season. Roche is Convive, located in Mc- Soergel Orchards, located Candless Crossing. A barista has about 15 minutes from La Roche, banned me from there, so sadly offers many activities for a cute I was not able to try any of their date or an outing with friends. new fall drinks. However, I can In past years, they’ve hosted a attest to Convive always having fall festival with music, food, and the highest of quality, and their drinks. This fall those are can- fall drink list surely is no differ- celled, but they still are open for ent. outdoor activities. You can go This year they are offering © Kathleen Kenna pick pumpkins or apples week- a pumpkin spice latte, an or- days 12:00-5:30, and weekends ange spiced late pumpkin latte, 10:00-5:30. a smoked salted maple latte, and Soergel Orchards also has a vanilla pink peppercorn draft here are some other highly rated is the backdrop of many spooky Oram’s donuts and cinnamon latte. In addition to their Mc- coffee shops: Gasoline St. Coffee, stories. rolls for pick-up every Saturday Candless location, Convive also located downtown; Kaibur Cof- Tales of people meeting their morning if you’re looking for a has locations in Lawrenceville fee, located in Polish Hill; De Fer fate, devil worshipping, and rit- more calorie-heavy activity. and Mars. Coffee & Tea, located in the Strip ual sacrifice are just a few of the Trax Farms, located about an Another coffee shop I visited District; and Espresso a Mano, stories surrounding this road for hour away from La Roche in the is Delanie’s Coffee, located in the in Lawrenceville, in addition to decades. If the weather is right, South Hills, is still holding their Southside. In addition to pump- many more. you can see blue mist rising off of Fall Festival. At Trax, a 150-year- kin spice, this year they are offer- For those who are of age, Irwin Run, a creek that runs par- old farm, you can take a hayride ing a spiced maple almond latte, Pittsburgh also has many highly allel to the road. It’s a great place through the pumpkin patch to oat golden chai with turmeric, rated breweries. I never drink on for a moonlit walk – just share pick your own pumpkin. They honey and ginger, and oolong the job, so I turned to Untappd, your location with a friend so you also have a three-acre corn maze spiced cider. I recommend their a beer rating app for help. Grist- don’t become Blue Mist Road’s for guests to explore and maybe spiced maple almond latte. house, located in Millvale, is re- latest victim. get lost forever. They are open La Roche does not sponsor leasing a fall themed beer called The pandemic is a hard time Monday, Wednesday, and Friday this kind of investigative journal- Broken Souls. This barrel-aged for everyone, and we are all a little 12:00-4:00 and weekends 10:00- ism, so I was not able to sample Imperial Stout has flavors of ha- down. But that doesn’t mean you 4:00. every latte in the city. However, zelnut, vanilla, and chocolate. can’t have some socially distanced Dancing Gnome, a brewery in fall fun with your friends and lov- The pandemic is a hard time for Sharpsburg, also has a fall beer. ers. So, don those scarves and It’s called Black Clouds and is an flannels, dance around a bonfire everyone, and we are all a little down. imperial stout conditioned on va- in a Samhain ritual, and enjoy the nilla. season. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have For people seeking a scary Hal- some socially distanced fall fun with your loween thrill, you can always visit Blue Mist Road, located in North friends and lovers. Park. This reportedly haunted road, officially called Irwin Road,

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 10 Entertainment A Knight of Disney magic Finding By Lucia Bou Dargham Contributing Writer the perfect playlist By Madeline Riccardi Associate Editor veryone feels different- ly during their different © Lucia Bou Dargham moods. Sometimes, you Emay feel happy, but not happy La Roche senior Lucia Bou Dargham talked with Disney actor Sterling Knight over Zoom. enough to dance. Other times, you llow me to take you back mal that has managed to take article hoping to transport you might feel sad, but you want to in time. It’s 2010, millions away the magic of everyday life. readers that share my Disney past sing along to every song you hear. of children tuned in to In an effort to reconnect with my to a place of nostalgia and warm Because of this, it is often difficult Awatch Disney Channel’s new origi- older self (or my younger self in memories. for people to find the right song to nal movie. A movie that enveloped this case), I pulled out and dusted Sterling Knight is beloved for describe the right feeling. its viewers in an air of cinematic the old treasure trove of child- his iconic role as Chad Dylan Suggestions often help listen- magic. Now, let’s imagine a little hood memories, and fell in love Cooper in Disney’s “Sonny with a ers create the perfect playlist to girl standing in front of her tele- with “StarStruck” all over again. Chance” (2009-2011), and its spi- go along with their mood at any vision. This little girl watched in I found out that I wasn’t the only noff series “So Random!” (2011- particular moment. awe as the hero won his heroine one reminiscing and turning to 2012). Some of the movies that The Happy Mood back with a song capable of melt- old movies as a means of escape. Knight has starred in include: “17 “Love Me Again” by the artist ing even the iciest of hearts. This Taking all of this into consider- Again” (2009), “Transit” (2012), RAYE is a song that just makes captivated little girl is the 21-year- ation, I always wondered how “Landmine Goes Click” (2015), you want to get up and dance. It old senior writing this article. The Sterling Knight himself was cop- and “The Man from Earth: Holo- has a happy beat that is perfect to movie I am talking about is “Star- ing with everything that is going cene” (2017) to name a few. Here move around to, no matter what Struck,” one of Disney’s true child- on. I then reached out to him, and are the interview highlights: kind of happy you are. The song hood classics. Christopher Wilde, the result was a 40-minute Zoom What shows, movies, or is also very catchy, and after only the character that swept the world interview that felt like a dream. songs from your childhood act a few listens you will know all the off its feet, is played by American Talking to him felt like catch- as your security blanket? How words. This is one of my all-time actor Sterling Knight. ing up with an old friend. My are you finding comfort in all favorite songs when I need to do Let’s fast-forward to the pres- younger self still cannot fathom this chaos? something that I don’t want to. As ent. Its 2020, and we are all adapt- what happened, and I don’t think I’ve really enjoyed the fact that soon as it starts playing, I want to ing to a new normal. A new nor- she ever will, but she wrote this a lot of people have gone back to dance, which makes me get up. the old shows that they grew up “Glad He’s Gone” by Tove Lo Watch here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9iTtl0OqOI is a song that may sound like it’s See Knight, Page 24 fit for a breakup, but that is not the case. She sings it from the perspective of the friend who never really liked your boyfriend. “John Wick” is a breath of You can feel her happiness that her friend is no longer dating the boyfriend, and it makes you fresh air in a stale industry happy. Although it contains some explicit lyrics, this song is sure to By Steven Munshower cheer anyone up who might be Associate Editor-in-Chief down in the dumps. “Bad Behaviour,” sung by Elli “John Wick” is a movie about his wife tragically dies, and in her is exposed to a methodically Ingram, opens with an instru- action, revenge, style, cars, world final act, gifts John a puppy. John’s crafted society of killers for hire. mental solo that makes you in- building, and so much more. last nerve is shattered when his The most interesting part of the stantly want to smile. It sets the “John Wick” was released in 2014, house is broken into, his car is world is the many rules and lead- mood for the whole song, and it by Summit Entertainment under stolen, and his puppy is killed. ers, which govern the business. instantly makes me feel like I am Lionsgate. The action/thriller From there, John spirals back into These ground the film in reality, in an old movie. If you are in a went on to become a cult success. the business which he fought to and makes the entire experience bad mood when the song begins, The sequels garnered increased escape, tracking down those who much more interesting. you definitely won’t be any longer attention, turning the property wronged him. This careful writing is after the first chorus. It is sure to into a franchise. More than anything, thanks to screenwriter Derek Kol- put a smile on your face as you “John Wick” follows retired “John Wick” is a practice in slow, stad, who has also worked on both listen to the lyrics because it is assassin, John Wick (Keanu rewarding world building. As sequels. When Kolstad is paired Reeves), who escaped the busi- John descends further into the See “John Wick,” Page 15 See Playlists, Page 19 ness to be with his wife. However, world of assassins, the audience

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 11 Versus Battle of the music streaming services: Apple, Spotify or Amazon By Madeline Riccardi Associate Editor

You can see La Roche students the one you just listened to in the Unlike Apple Music, reg- limited option, not every song is all over campus wearing head- middle of your playlists. ular Spotify is free. Because it is available. phones. But what are they lis- Feeling a certain way but you free, listeners are unable to down- Amazon Music comes with tening to, and more importantly, aren’t sure what to listen to? Apple load songs or play a particular a Prime Membership, which is which streaming service are they Music offers hundreds of playlists song out of a playlist. The entire $59.00 a month for students. using? Not everyone has the same you can shuffle through to find music service is on shuffle mode. Through this option, you can cre- preferences, and not every service the right sound for your mood. For those who want to play a ate unlimited playlists or listen to offers the same features. Which It has custom mood and activity particular song whenever they playlists curated just for you. You streaming service is the best, ac- playlists as well as ones created want, Spotify offers a Premium can access them across devices cording to the facts? just for you based on your listen- version. It is available to students and can stream them anywhere. Apple Music offers unlimited ing habits. for $4.99 a month as long as you Music Unlimited offers access playlists. But how many songs can Playlists based on your listen- can prove that you are currently a to 60 million songs. As long as you have in one playlist? There ing habits are also available on student. you can prove that you are a stu- has yet to be a defined maximum Spotify through what they call Spotify Premium gives you ac- dent, it costs an additional $4.99 or minimum number of songs al- “Daily Mix.” A series of six playl- cess to an ad-free music experi- a month to your Prime student lowed in a playlist. You can make ists made for you, Spotify refresh- ence with 50 million songs that subscription. playlists with just one song on re- es them every day, and the more you can play anytime, anywhere Spotify and Apple Music are peat, or thousands of songs in an you use it, the better your mixes with its abroad music option. It compatible to play on Amazon endless shuffle. will be. also does not require an internet Alexa devices as well as Google The Apple Music student plan Spotify also has playlists that connection to play. Home. Currently, Amazon Music is only $4.99 a month for as long allow you to discover new songs Like Spotify, Amazon Music is only compatible with Amazon as you can prove that you are a stu- by artists in your playlists, or does not require internet, but Alexa devices. dent. For that price, you can listen those that you have favorited. only if you download songs while Each streaming service offers to ad-free music for as long as you Spotify offers access to hun- online. This music streaming ser- a free trial, but the range of each want, with availability to over 70 dreds of podcasts, broadcasting vice allows you to shuffle or play differs depending on which level million songs. You can also in- new episodes as soon as the cre- particular songs. However, un- of service you buy. clude podcasts or songs similar to ators release them. less you purchase the Music Un- Battle of the video streaming services: Netflix, Hulu or Prime By Madeline Riccardi Associate Editor

he use of cable is dwindling fiction or horror series, Netflix is monsters exist in “Black Mirror,” with their adventure is that one in the U.S. According to an the best option for you. A report a modern remake of Rob Ster- is planning on killing the other. August study conducted by by The New York Times shows ling’s 1959 “The Twilight Zone.” Violence seems to follow the un- TVARIETY, a weekly entertainment that there were 69.9 million U.S. It focuses on the uncertainty likely duo, and the whole show magazine, only 40 percent of US Netflix subscribers in April 2020. and disquiet that exist in today’s keeps you wondering what will residents currently pay for a cable Horror takes on many forms, world. Each episode is a new sto- happen next. subscription. from monsters and ghosts to re- ry, and they all make you stop and Not a fan of dark comedy? With the use of cable falling, a ality and the consequences that question what is real, and what is Netflix’s “Russian Doll” is a blend higher demand for video stream- come with living in it. No matter all in your head. of comedy and drama wrapped ing services has risen. But not ev- which type of horror you prefer, “Black Mirror” viewers often up in a “Groundhog Day” ribbon. eryone knows which is the right there are dozens of series that are find it in the science fiction cate- It takes the classic story from the service for them. right for you. gory. Sci-Fi encompasses modern 1993 film starring Bill Murray and To decide which streaming “Hemlock Grove” is Netflix’s social and environmental chang- puts a modern twist on it. Nata- service is correct for you, you first horror series. It takes place es, as well as imagined technolog- sha Lyonne stars as a woman who have to look at the individual in Hemlock Grove, Pennsylvania, ical advances in the future. accidentally dies at her birthday movie and series productions on a mythical town filled with rich Sci-Fi and horror are not the party. She finds herself unable to each. and poverty-stricken residents, only series genres that Netflix has. stop living the day over, and soon Netflix, Hulu, and Prime Vid- all who have a secret. Each season Producers often link Comedy and learns that she is not the only one eo are media streaming platforms is based around a particular mys- Drama together, creating the next caught in this endless loop. that stream original movies and tery while we slowly learn who, most popular category. Endless loops frequently ap- series as well as entertainment and what, each of the characters Netflix’s “The End of the pear in movies and series, but productions created by other actually are. F***ing World” is a dark comedy each take on them is slightly platforms. This article will discuss Fantasy monsters are not the that follows two teenagers as they only the original productions. only ones who wander through go on a road trip to find one of See Video Services, If you are interested in science the series on Netflix. Real life their fathers. The biggest problem Page 17

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 12 Sports La Roche intermural hockey plays past pandemic By Sarah Hefferin Associate Editor-in-Chief

Courtesy of Sara Szymanski

La Roche’s intermural inline hockey team was the first team to start this semester, despite the covid-19 pandemic.

a Roche University’s inter- He said he was happy to find that mural hockey team has be- there were guys of all skill levels: come the only sports team “I want them to learn and to be a part of those who had been playing for Lat the university to begin their years, and those just starting out. season safely amidst the current the sport and to feel like they’re part of a “In essence, I would rather pandemic. t e a m .” have the team be guys going out The team, made up of thirteen and giving it their best effort, students, plays for fun weekly -Mark Zalakar rather than winning all the time. at the Robert Morris University I want them to learn and to be a Sports Complex. part of the sport and to feel like Mark Zalakar, a freshman ad- not as rigid as ice hockey, and that ally started to come together as they’re a part of a team,” Zalakar missions counselor at La Roche, it’s great for beginners. a team and really started to win said. is the team’s faculty advisor. When he realized that La games later in the season. And This idea of team has become When he was hired, he found out Roche used to have an intermural then, covid hit.” a comfort for the guys, especially that La Roche used to have an in- hockey, he knew he had to get it When La Roche and the rest during a time where the world line hockey team, and that it was back. of the world closed because of the has been forced to spend a lot of disbanded in 2015. In 2019, after talking with pandemic, the inline team was time apart. Growing up, Zalakar and his Student Development and reach- going into the playoffs. As a re- “For all of the guys, it’s just two brothers — Paul and Brian ing out to interested students, sult, the team did not finish their great that they can be able to do — played hockey together often. he got a team together. Zalakar season. something that they love,” Zala- Zalakar played deck and inline entered them into a collegiate This season, because of pan- kar said. “This is something that hockey throughout his time at league, where they played against demic restrictions, the collegiate the students do care about and Shaler Area High School, and teams from colleges like RMU, league could not happen. In- want to come out for, even if it’s went on to play ice and inline CCAC, Clarion University, and stead, Zalakar added La Roche at 11 o’clock at night on a Tues- hockey during college. Duquesne University. to an adult league that is running day; they’re still super involved When he came to La Roche, “Part of it was just getting the through the RMU Sports Com- and want to get better. It’s really Zalakar was simply playing pick- group of guys together,” Zalakar plex. nice to have it actually be a thing up deck hockey games with differ- said. “We had never seen each Zalakar wanted to give inter- ent teams in the area. He said that other on campus, and we didn’t ested students the opportunity to See Hockey, Page 22 he likes inline hockey because it’s even practice at first. We re- play, despite the circumstances.

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 13 As I See It... Student shares family love story By Lucia Bou Dargham Contributing Writer

ne glance. him every chance she got, which That’s all it took. It was hard to imagine that something was no small feat. Individualized O She had sandy blonde home P.O. boxes weren’t a thing hair, he had piercing blue eyes. beautiful would come out of this war, but back then, and so to acquire any Her smile captured your heart, mail, Rania’s family had entrusted his uniform caught your atten- a love resilient enough to withstand the a family friend to receive them tion. Destiny unfolded, yet desti- from his company’s P.O. box ad- ny still managed to get in the way. odds was about to bloom. dress. She would write with a lov- They crossed paths on the sea- ing hand, words that flowed from front promenade, yet they were her heart directly onto the page, worlds apart. She was a Lebanese ing. People on bicycles, kids play- grandmother excitedly yelled as he would barely write at all. All beauty; he was a brave American ing, vendors trying to sell hot and she signaled to Rania to come she received from him was one soldier. Her name was Rania, and buttery corn on the cob, life was to the phone. Rania had to go to letter. In that letter, he told her her story was just about to begin. good for the first time in while. her grandmother’s house every how he was now stationed in Ja- Beirut, Lebanon was the The sound of people’s laughter time she wanted to talk to the pan and that it was getting harder launching point of it all. The year floating through the air accom- soldier since her parents didn’t to write to her. was 1986, and it was a time of panied the sound of the waves have a house phone. They would Her hands trembled as she re- change for many. The Lebanese crashing on the shore to form a talk for hours, which occasionally read the only letter that he had Civil War, lasting from 1975 to joyous melody. concerned Rania due to the fact sent her for the tenth time. It was 1990, was nearing its end. There All was well, up until a ran- that she would run out of things a year since she last saw him. She were an estimated 120,000 fatali- dom stranger approached from to tell him. She then started to would write and write to him, but ties, and almost one million peo- a distance. Rania didn’t give him prepare a list of things to say to to no avail. As she reread the let- ple had to leave the country. much thought, for there were him and kept it by the phone. The ter, tears glistening like pearls in It was hard to imagine that people everywhere. He was tall, one thing that she constantly ex- the moonlight, trickled down her something beautiful would come had golden blonde hair, and a pressed was that she wanted him face. She studied his handwriting, out of this war, but a love resilient very serious look on his face. He to come and meet her parents. He which was cold and distant, and enough to withstand the odds was wearing an American army was stationed in a far area in Leb- wondered when he would appear was about to bloom. Rania was uniform, enough to make him anon, and it was difficult to get to before her again. 5’7’’, had luxurious honey- toned stand out from the crowd. At the where she was. Rania never lost The truth was that he had been hair and bangs that accentuated time, peace keeping forces such as hope, but her excitement slow- writing to her all along, but her her doe- like brown eyes. She was the UNIFIL were stationed across ly faded. It was unlike her to be family was hiding the letters, fear- the oldest sister of three boys, and Lebanon, so the sight of an Amer- down, but she was. It was unlike ing for her safety. For after all, this had just graduated from univer- ican soldier was not a strange oc- her not to smile, but she didn’t. It was a man that they did not really sity with a business degree. She currence. Regardless, he was dif- was also unlike her to cry, but she know. After seeing how Rania’s was a dreamer, and had a heart ferent. couldn’t stop. eyes had lost their sparkle, and full of ambition and a head full of As he was passing by Rania, Months passed and there was a how her rosy cheeks had become ideas. She wasn’t completely set they exchanged a quick glance. It sudden, frantic knock at the door. pale, her mother decided that it on what she wanted her career to all ended in an instant, but that Rania’s heart sank, not knowing was time to tell her the truth. “You be, but she knew that she wanted instant marked the beginning of what to expect. Her mom rushed see, he does love you,” her mother to make an impact. The sound their story. Still processing what to the door, and much to every- reluctantly said as she handed Ra- of her laughter echoed in every had happened, Rania and her body’s surprise, a tall handsome nia a plastic bag full of his letters. room she walked into. With a friend continued walking in the man was standing there. It was Rania’s face immediately beamed personality as warm as her heart, opposite direction. They walked him. Nobody knew how he was with excitement, and it was col- she enchanted everybody. She until they reached a mosaic-tiled able to get there, but nobody said ored with the beauty of life once couldn’t imagine a life far away seat that faced the sea. The color- anything. He took one look at Ra- again. She had no time to be mad from her family, and never want- ful tiles glistened and danced in nia and said, “I want you to know at her family for hiding the bag ed to imagine such a thing. How- the sun, making Rania’s face glow. that I’m serious about us.” Her that held her happiness, she was ever, life doesn’t work that way, She was wearing a long flowy heart fluttered and her trademark focused on piecing together her and neither does love. The thing white dress, and her hair was ef- dimple appeared as she flashed a dream of being with him once about love is that it manages to fortlessly styled in a fishtail braid. huge smile. She gave him a tour of again. “I want to live in America,” sneak into the lives of those that Her hair framed her structured the house, pausing to show him she told her mother. Her mother aren’t looking. jawline and highlighted her el- her drawings. “I sketched this said nothing, took a deep breath, On what seemed to be a regu- egant features. Much to her sur- picture of you so that I wouldn’t and left the room. Rania rushed lar Tuesday evening, Rania decid- prise, the American soldier was forget what you looked like the back to her room to search for the ed to go out with a close friend. walking towards her again. He first time I saw you,” she said as piece of paper that he had given It was the summer time, which walked up and introduced him- she handed him the picture. She her containing his parent’s ad- meant that a walk on the seaside self. They were in a world of their also formally introduced him to dress. As soon as she walked into promenade was in order. The sun own, and their pleasant conver- her family, which went surpris- her room, the gravity of the situ- was starting to set, yet its warmth sation ended in them exchang- ingly well. ation hit her. This was the room enveloped the surroundings. ing phone numbers. Now, Rania Rania’s happiness didn’t last that she grew up in, the house, There was a cool salty breeze, and would never give out her phone long, for he disappeared again the memories, she wasn’t ready to the energy of life all around. The number to a random stranger, but shortly after his visit. He prom- leave that all behind. Yet she knew Lebanese people continued to be it happened ever so naturally. ised that he would write to her, that she wouldn’t be happy if she the heartbeat of their country de- *** and asked her to do the same. See Love Story, Page 17 spite the struggles that were ensu- “It’s that guy again,” Rania’s Rania complied and wrote to

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 14 Final Fall Flowers

© Madeline Riccardi

Mock Election, continued from page 2

Four international students participated in this mock election. Three international students - representing Kenya, Russia and Ecuador - cast their ballots for Biden. One student from Aruba voted for Jorgensen.

registered as Republicans. About Students’ reasons for heading thirty-six percent identified as to the polls vary. This poll asked Democrats. Libertarians made students to select the issues that up about six percent of voters. were most important to them in The remainder were not affiliated this election. with those parties. The top priority was the econ- Seven registered Republicans omy, with about 75 percent of stu- crossed political lines to vote for dents identifying it as one of the Biden, while four registered Dem- issues most important to them. ocrats voted in favor of Trump. Other highly-prioritized is- Five Libertarians cast ballots sues included health care (63 per- for Biden. Two Libertarians sup- cent), racial justice (60 percent) ported Trump. and abortion (50 percent). Over 95 percent of students Nearly 39 percent of students who participated in this poll said said they’d be focusing on foreign they’ll be voting in the upcoming policy. About 47 percent identi- © Julia Felton presidential election. fied gun policy as a major issue. Four international students Some students opted to write Over 95 percent of students who participated in La Roche’s mock participated in this mock elec- in their own top priorities. The election said they planned to vote in the upcoming November election. tion. Three international students environment, limiting govern- – representing Kenya, Russia and ment, college debt, LGBT rights Ecuador – cast their ballots for and covid-19 were among write- Biden. One student from Aruba in responses that were identified voted for Jorgensen. as a top issue by one student each.

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 15 “John Wick,” continued from page 10 Chalk Art

with director Chad Stahelski, they es, which benefitted the film im- create a dangerous duo of innova- mensely. tion and experience. Stahelski has The movie contains several an extensive background in stunt fantastic action scenes, that pay work, and met lead actor Keanu homage to action films of old, Reeves while he was filming “The while adapting the format for a Matrix.” Stahelski was Reeves’ modern audience. The camera is stunt double in the film. helmed with such expertise, fol- Speaking of Keanu Reeves, his lowing Reeves’ every movement, performance in this film is bril- highlighting the extensive chore- liant. It is a casting choice that ography. This smooth dance-like seems so perfect, that picturing action is what initially set the film anybody else in the role is diffi- apart from the thousands of other cult. Reeves’ passion for the fran- generic action movies. chise is evident in all of his train- Another strength of the film is ing and hard work preparing for sound design. Each action scene the role. He went through exten- is enhanced by unique sound sive tactical training, learning real choices, that set the film apart world skills that translate to film from others of the same genre. to create unique and innovative The clear and deep sound design action scenes. helps guide the audience through The film has an excellent cast, the action, and very little is lost in which makes the film even more the chaos. The soundtrack is sim- believable. Ian McShane, Lance ilarly impressive, with electronic Reddick, and Michael Nyqvist and western-inspired tracks. © Caroline Maxwell deliver particularly memorable When both of these aspects com- Students used sidewalk chalk to decorate artwork on the sidewalk performances. Alfie Allen, John bine, the film is at its best. behind Bold Hall. Junior Annie Schwarz drew this sunflower. Leguizamo, Willem Dafoe, and “John Wick” proves that Adrianne Palicki also skillfully unique and innovative action is play their respective characters. still possible. In a world of re- Casting directors Suzanne Smith boots and action films reeking Dining Hall, continued from page 6 and Jessica Kelly were evidently of standardized templates, “John particular in making their choic- Wick” is like a breath of fresh air. as last. Students are not given the Padolf also noted that Sage is choice to change meal plans in abiding by all the standard co- response to changes Sage makes vid-19 protocols. SGA, continued from page 6 during the semester. Seats and tables in the dining For students concerned about hall are moved to ensure physical Florence urged SGA members Affairs Gracyn Holcombe said finding a time to get food, Padolf distancing. The dining hall is op- to attend an Inclusion Forum she’s working on updating the recommended using the Touch of erating at 50 percent capacity. hosted by the Inclusion Council. website. SAGE app to order meals in ad- “We have begun to allow tak- Florence also began discuss- • Financial Vice President vance. ing food to go to help lessen the ing the SGA gift. SGA’s budget Nathan Polacek said he hoped “Students can place orders number of students in the dining includes $3,000 to fund an SGA- to begin divvying up funds for through the Touch of SAGE app hall at one time,” Padolf said, not- sponsored project to benefit the club budgets. He said most of the and order meals to be picked ing that they have not seen large La Roche community. Florence clubs from last year had filled out up when it works best for them numbers of students in the dining said she hoped to solidify a plan the paperwork to operate again during our hours of operation,” hall at any one time. for the SGA gift by the end of this this year. Padolf said. “So, if a student is Employees are also provided semester so the group could im- • Academic Vice President concerned about getting to the with personal protective equip- plement it in the spring. Riley Polacek said she met with Redhawk Café in order to place ment and trained in covid-19 The group also hosted a high- Dr. Howard Ishiyama, the univer- an order before they close, they protocols. They are required to way cleanup event in September. sity’s provost and senior academ- can always order a meal to go and submit to a daily health screen- They plan to host another in the ic vice president, to discuss what pick it up by 8 p.m.” ing and temperature check and spring semester. would happen in the event of At the start of the semester, the would be required to disclose a “We had a couple students do another campus-wide shutdown. dining hall was only open for stu- positive covid-19 test or an expo- it for LRX service credit, so it’s “We’re hoping to keep the school dents and employees with meal sure to a person who tests posi- always great to a get a couple stu- open, but if things do close, he’s plans. Recently, they reopened tive for covid-19. dents involved with what we’re saying it’ll probably go the same for anyone. People must pay with Utensils, cups and plates are doing,” Florence said. “Hopefully way it did last semester, sending a meal plan, credit card or debit disposable. we can get a larger student turn- everyone home,” she said. She card. They will not accept cash. Bulk dispensers of cereal, ice out in the spring so we can cover also noted that classes will likely For students who have con- cream and other foods have been more ground.” be offered in the same formats cerns regarding La Roche’s food replaced with single-serve op- SGA members reported their in the spring, with many courses services, Padolf said Sage officials tions. progress on individual goals: offered in-person but Zoom op- are willing to discuss any issues. There are also hand sanitizing • Frances said he was work- tions available for students who The Dining Committee that they stations throughout the cafeteria. ing with the Radio Club. “We prefer. had started last year was not con- During operational hours, a Sage have all the equipment up and • Rochelle Selzer, director tinued this year, as Padolf said employee is assigned to cleaning running,” he said. “Now we’re of clubs and organizations, said there was little community par- and sanitizing tables and high- looking to see if we can get new she planned to host a club round- ticipation last year. But if there touch surfaces, Padolf said. members and get a podcast.” table meeting. is interest this year, she said the • Director of Commuter committee could restart, poten- tially with a virtual platform. Florence also urged SGA members to “Students can also fill out com- ment cards that we always have attend an Inclusion Forum hosted by the available as well,” she said, adding that students can also send com- Inclusion Council. ments directly through the Touch of Sage app.

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 16 Final Flowers of Fall Littering, continued from page 8

I don’t think that’s the case be- cause, according to ENVST, the average number of steps a person will take before littering is just 12 steps. We really just don’t care and why would we? We have no one to hold us responsible, we just ex- pect someone to be picking up af- ter us. Our janitorial staff isn’t our mom, students, they have better things to do than pick up your discarded mask out of a flower bush or clean up your spilled root beer in the hallways. You may be one of those in- considerate sorts who may con- sider the janitors your personal servant to pick up after you as you go, and while that is a heinous way to think, let’s look beyond just that for a moment. © Madeline Riccardi What is the environmental impact of littering and how can it affect you personally? Litter is very dangerous to human safety; continued from page 3 it isn’t only dangerous to ruin- Debate, ing the aesthetic of our environ- ment. According to EcoMENA, ter of recovery from the economic While both are optimistic, nei- overtaking it. He’s fixed it. I’m this includes poisoning animals shutdown and whether we should ther has a strong track record for proud of my son,” he said. and choking fish and ruining plan on a “V-shaped” curve, as the describing the intricacies of the The debate continued, with the quality of the waterways you President claims, or “K-shaped” real-world economics. Trump painting Biden in with drink from. That hand-breaded curve, as his opponent claims, The most storied moment of the farther wings of his party, as teriyaki chicken you throw on the was brought up by Wallace. Nei- the night came when the Presi- well as being an ineffectual lead- ground may attract pests such as ther he, nor either candidate pro- dent refused to condemn white er. Biden did the same, claiming rats. We already have covid-19, vided an explanation as to what supremacy. A softball question by that Trump’s rhetoric and policies do you really want to contract the either curve meant. Wallace, Trump deflected. continue to divide the nation. Black Plague too? La Roche professor and chair “Who? Give me a name and At the end of the debate the So that leaves us with one of the political science depart- I’ll tell you what I think,” he said. question of the integrity of the question: what is the cure for our ment Dr. Joshua Forrest shed When Wallace specified the election was brought up. The illness? I honestly believe the an- some light on the subject. The “Proud Boys,” a white hate group, president was fervent in his claims swers are awareness and account- “K-curve,” or Kuznets curve, is a as designated by the Southern that the election is “rigged” and ability. It was evident to me from two-pronged theory that is often Poverty Law Center, Trump still that the mail-in-ballot procedures the pizza box conversation men- applied beyond an economic re- deflected, speaking straight to the many states have introduced this tioned above that some others covery scenario. group in question. year are vulnerable to fraud. have noticed the amount of lit- “[It is a] theory that assumes “Proud Boys, stand down and “It’s going to be like fraud ter covering our campus. But on that technological advances make stand by,” he said. you’ve never seen,” Trump said. the other hand, I have had people it possible both to improve gen- Another powerful moment “We’re polling well, but it’s a show me that they didn’t know eral incomes for ordinary people was when President Trump rigged election. The Supreme that this kind of thing was hap- while also relying more on green brought up the behavior of Court will have to look at the pening. energy sources,” Forrest ex- Biden’s son Hunter, who, in ad- case. People are sending in ballots I had a conversation with a plained. dition to his controversial stint and they’re dumping them into teacher who I hold a lot of respect The V-curve, named for the at the Ukrainian holding com- the river. It’s going to be awful.” for and mentioned this article shape it takes on a graph, is a pany Burisma, has noted issues Biden, conversely, chose to to her and she was confused by much simpler theory. with substance abuse. To console be optimistic about the election, the topic. Did we have a littering “[It is a] theoretical assump- Americans who have seen and bringing up the FBI’s claims of no problem? The answer is yes, but tion that a sharp economic down- suffered drug addiction, Biden evidence of election tampering, we really do not know. I think the swing is likely to be followed by spoke to the audience. outside the spread of misinforma- answer is sending out remind- a sharp economic recovery,” For- “My son, like a lot people at tion online. ers about the proper ways to dis- rest said. home, had a drug problem. He’s “[The] FBI director says mail- pose of our trash, hanging up the in-voting is perfectly safe. He’s cheesy and invasive posters, just trying to scare people not to vote,” anything that would catch the at- Whatever does happen in the Biden said. “I will trust the re- tention of students. upcoming election, this debate made clear sults.” When it comes to account- Whatever does happen in the ability, it will take a joint effort to that the choice of the American public is upcoming election, this debate keep yourself and others in check. made clear that the choice of the I know it’s hard to walk to a trash an extremely stark one. With the future American public is an extremely can, but just think about how stark one. With the future un- many people you will be helping unclear, we head to November with quite clear, we head to November with by going beyond those 12 steps. different candidates. quite different candidates.

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 17 Welcome to Africa

© Caroline Maxwell The La Roche University African Culture Club hosted an event, dubbed “Welcome to Africa,” on campus on Oct. 1, showcasing African cultures.

Video Services, continued from page 11 Kelly, continued from page 7 different from the rest. Hulu, a dark comedy through its original The scholarship was founded Now, the grant is worth $2,000 streaming platform with 35.5 movie, “Blow the Man Down.” In in 1973, according to the AAUW. and is still awarded to a female se- million U.S. subscribers, recently this story, two sisters attempt to It was initially a $100 scholar- nior at La Roche. released the original movie “Palm cover up an accidental murder ship that was awarded to a senior According to Yeasted, return- Springs” starring Andy Samberg while simultaneously uncovering female who displayed financial ing women students were the tra- and Cristin Milioti. The two star their small fishing town’s deepest need and academic achievement. ditional recipients of the grant. as wedding guests who wander secrets. The story contains ele- “The money was not necessar- But it’s now expanded to include into a magical vortex that makes ments of musicals while weaving ily just for education, but people traditional students as well. them re-live the same day over together murder, prostitution, could also use it for what was “It was often given to a return- and over again. They soon lose and unwelcome attention. needed,” Yeasted explained, not- ing student, but we have so few hope of ever getting out and be- Another genre that Prime Vid- ing that early recipients some- returning women now because gin to accept their fate together. eo produces frequently is action. times used the funds for other most women are finishing their Characters also lose hope in “Hunters” is a controversial origi- necessities, like childcare. degree before they get married,” “Wounds,” a psychological thriller nal series that follows a group of When Kelly died in 1988, the Yeasted explained. “They still released by Hulu in 2019. Armie Nazi hunters through 1970s New scholarship was renamed in her have a heart for those women Hammer stars as a bartender who York. Al Pacino and Logan Ler- memory. The AAUW gave two who have kids, like single moth- brings home a cell phone that two man take on lead roles in this ac- $500 grants that year. ers. But that doesn’t mean those men left at his bar. He soon looks tion-filled series. Together, with “They named it after her -be are the only ones who are consid- at the contents of the phone and an unlikely group of assassins, cause of the work she had done e re d .” begins to see and hear disturbing they hunt down former Nazis for so many returning women,” The annual holiday greens sale things that plague his mind. The hiding in the U.S., while simul- Yeasted said. “She was a remark- hosted by the AAUW raises mon- movie will make you wonder if it taneously trying to stop a fourth able woman and they really did it ey for this scholarship. is all real or in his head the entire Reich. The series is full of action, because of her work with women’s time. fight scenes, and general intrigue issues.” Hulu’s original series “Castle for anyone willing to look past the Rock” is a horror drama that in- questionable inspiration. corporates dark comedy whenev- “The Pale Horse” is another er possible. The two seasons of the action, adventure, and mystery series connect to the same story, series on Prime Video based on Love Story, continued from page 13 but in different times. It is a mix of the story by Agatha Christie. The references to Steven King novels, limited series follows a detective stayed. Rania was a determined her soldier. After a bit of time, including “Misery”, “Shawshank as he looks for a murderer and a person. If she wanted something, Rania’s mom got a phone call. It Redemption”, “Carrie”, and more. man who knows more than he she got it. was him. His mission was over It even contains some of the ac- should. With only two episodes, it After two months of trying and he wanted to speak to Rania. tors for King movie adaptations, will keep you on the edge of your to convince her dad to let her go Her mom told him that she had including Bill Skarsgård (“IT”) seat until the very end. It makes to America, he finally accepted. moved to America to be with him. and Sissy Spacek (“Carrie”). you wonder, was it all in his head With no means of directly con- “That is the best news that I have Prime Video, a streaming plat- or does everything come with a tacting her soldier, she called his ever heard in my life,” he said as form with 26 million U.S. sub- price? parents and told them that she he rushed to hang up. He called scribers, also intricately weaves was coming. His parents, filled his parents and told them to get with joy, told her that she could ready because a big wedding was come live with them until he in order. It’s funny how an instant With the use of cable falling, a higher de- comes back. Rania never want- can change your life, what’s funny mand for video streaming services has ed to leave her family, but she is that we don’t know it at first. couldn’t stay either. She packed risen. But not everyone knows which is up her life, put it in a suitcase, and headed towards her future. the right service for them. A month had passed since she had arrived, but no word from

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 18 Survey, continued from page 1 Covid Testing, continued from page 4 population of students, staff, and faculty. They also offer on- demand testing for students who think they might have symptoms, or have been in contact with someone who tested positive. According to their covid-19 dashboard, as of October 9, Penn State has provided, at no cost, 22,275 tests through random testing, and 14,962 tests through their on-demand option. The University of Pittsburgh, in Oakland, is following simi- lar protocol. According to their covid-19 dashboard, they tested about 10 percent of incoming students at the beginning of the semester. Since August 12, they have performed 3,922 tests. © Julia Felton The Families First Coronavirus Response Act states that health In a survey, nearly 80 percent of students said they learned less in online classes during the spring semester insurance providers should not than they would have in the classroom. require any copayments for a covid-19 test. The same goes for easy. Two commuters and six res- Regarding the easiest part of “somewhat too restrictive.” those with coverage from Medic- idents selected okay. Seven com- moving to online instruction, About 15 percent called the re- aid and CHIP. muters chose somewhat or very about 63 percent of students strictions “somewhat too loose.” Despite this, it is sometimes difficult, while fifteen resident chose access to technology. No Approximately seven percent said difficult to find a free test if a -per students said it was somewhat or students selected that option as they were “far too loose.” son is not exhibiting symptoms very difficult. the most challenging aspect of “I believe the restrictions are or if they do not have a doctor’s Three respondents who were their transition. very strict and unrealistic,” Gra- order. If a person is having dif- residents last year have opted to About 18 percent said finding cie Crim, a senior criminal justice ficulty acquiring a test, they can commute this year. an appropriate workspace was major, said, specifically noting purchase one from a private com- Students also revealed the easy, while 11 percent said they that it’s hard to expect resident panies. This is how many univer- most difficult aspects of moving found the lack of socialization students not to visit other dorm sities are able to provide tests. to remote learning in the spring. easy. buildings. She said that was “the Penn State University uses the The most common struggle Nine respondents – or 16 per- number one complaint” among company Vault to acquire their was communicating with pro- cent – reported that leaving cam- other students she knows. tests. Vault provides FDA ap- fessors and campus resources, a pus made it difficult for them to Students also had mixed reac- proved saliva tests for individuals problem 25 percent of respon- meet basic needs, including food tions to the quality of hybrid and and corporate entities. An indi- dents experienced. and a safe place to stay. online classes this semester. Only vidual test costs $150. Vault of- The second was understanding Students also reacted to the re- one respondent was taking all of fers bulk pricing, but Penn State technology and having professors turn to campus this semester. their classes in person. University – having already per- understand technology. Almost Thirty respondents said they About two-thirds of students formed over 30,000 — has spent 24 percent of students selected felt the university communi- said they would be taking more millions of dollars on testing. that option. cated with students clearly about courses in-person this semester if Other companies, like Pixel Twenty percent of students the expectations and restrictions they had the choice. and Let’s Get Checked, offer at said they struggled to find an ap- in place for a return to campus. Fifty-four out of 55 students home tests for a slightly lower propriate work space. Six percent said La Roche didn’t surveyed had at least one online price, $119. Once you complete Eleven percent found the lack communicate well. The rest said class this year. Thirty-three of the test, you can file a claim with of socialization to be their biggest the college communicated some- them said they’d be learning more your insurance company. challenge. what clearly. in in-person classes. Two of them As 2020 progresses, there are Four students identified all of Students had mixed responses said they were learning more in more opportunities to get tested those categories as difficult for regarding the covid-19 related re- the online format. for covid-19. However, there is them. strictions on campus this semes- Forty-seven respondents are room for improvement. Accord- Remaining students wrote in ter. currently taking one or more ing to Johns Hopkins, Pennsylva- other difficulties, ranging from Forty percent classified the re- hybrid courses. Fifteen of them nia has given the least amount of a lack of motivation from them- strictions as “just right.” said their hybrid classes are less tests of any state, proportionally. selves and their professors to a Nearly 15 percent deemed valuable than entirely in-person Their data shows the number lack of one-on-one class atten- them “far too restrictive,” while courses. Four deemed them of tests performed per 100,000 tion. almost 24 percent dubbed them more valuable. The remaining people in each state. Pennsylvania 28 students said they’re roughly has performed 16,134 tests per “There could have been more in-person, equivalent to in-person courses. 100,000 people while North Da- “There could have been more kota, at the top of the list, has per- because it’s harder to be engaged in a in-person classes, because it’s formed 83,189 tests per 100,000 harder to be engaged in a class people. class whenever you are online at home. I whenever you are online at home,” Despite these challenges, CVS Cami Contestabile, a sophomore at McCandless Crossing is still am more productive whenever I am biology major, said. “I am more the best place for a La Roche stu- physically in class.” productive whenever I am physi- dent to get a test. McCarthy en- cally in class.” couraged students with any ques- -Cami Contestabile tions regarding covd-19 testing to contact pandemicsafetyofficer@ laroche.edu.

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 19 Playlists, continued from page 10

just such a fun and happy song. good for you. That being said, no feeling than that song because of she is surrounded by them at the Once again, it is explicit, but do matter the reason you are sad, you the singer. This song makes you party. The narrator knows what not let that steer you away from it. will be able to relate to this song. want to feel happy, but as soon as is happening, and he wants to Meghan Trainor’s “Another Look up the lyrics while you lis- you listen to the lyrics, you will escape, which can be a metaphor Opinion” contains a very differ- ten, and soon your sad mood will feel very different. Give it a listen for life if you really think about it. ent feeling than the rest of the be completed with this song. for yourself, because there is not Shoffy and Sabrina Carpenter’s songs in this suggested playlist. Troye Sivan’s “The Good Side” a way to describe the sadness and “Tricky” presents a sadder mood This one is perfect to play when was recently popularized by Netf- joy that this song contains. that contains happy elements. The you are happy because it is basi- lix’s “13 Reasons Why.” This song The Mixed Mood lyrics to this song present people cally saying to everyone else, I is set to an acoustic guitar, and Sometimes, you are not really who are not happy, and yet they am proud to be me. It is a song it sets the mood for you to sadly feeling any mood in particular. accept who they are and move on. that just lets you be yourself, and dance throughout your room. In These songs are suggestions that The melody of the song is very it contains a very nice message. I no time, you will be singing along can work with any of your moods. catchy, while the lyrics conatain suggest even simply looking up and feeling every word of it. Even The songs are a mixture of feel- a deep sadness in each word. No the lyrics to this song, because it if you are feeling happy, this song ings, from making you want to matter who you are, I suggest giv- is sure to resonate with you. is a great one to listen to. It allows dance, to making you laugh be- ing this song a listen. “Boyfriend” by Mabel is an you to feel like you are in control, cause the lyrics are comical. “Plans” by 88rising and NIKI upbeat song that will definitely even if deep down you are not. MAX’s “Acid Dreams” always & Vory is an explicit song that put you in a happy mood, espe- “Great One” by Jessie Reyez makes me want to get up and will make you want to spend time cially if you listen to it with your stands out from the other songs dance when I am listening to it. with your friends having fun. friends. It will make you want to in this playlist because it sounds When it comes up on my shuffle, This song will make you sing and dance, and sometimes dancing is much happier than the rest of I always listen to it, no matter dance along, no matter what you definitely better with a group of them. But this is not the case as what, because it makes me happy. are doing. If you are in a sad mood friends, especially if you can re- soon as you listen to the lyrics. It is not necessarily a happy song, when you listen to this song, it is late to the lyrics like most girls, Between Jessie’s belting and her but it does present a feeling that sure to make you crack a smile. and a lot of boys, are able to. heartfelt words, she shows that everything will be okay. Note: Although only three The Sad Mood life is pointless without people “Vampire” by Dominic Fike is “playlists” were created, these Although this song’s title feels in it. This song always makes me a song that makes me laugh when songs can fit into a wide range of like it belongs to a different playl- want to tell someone I care about I hear it, no matter what mood categories. They may also make ist, Kishi Bashi’s “I Am the Anti- that I love them and am happy I am in. The song sounds so se- you feel a different way than I christ to You” belongs in this mix. that they are in my life. rious, and yet when you really felt when listening because there The backtrack, vocals, and lyrics “From a Cage” by Hailey Bonar listen to the lyrics, it has a play- is no right way to feel about par- will bring you nothing but sad was actually featured in the same ful mood to it. The song focuses ticular songs. feelings, while also making you movie that “I Am the Antichrist on, like the title suggests, vam- want to sing along. It is written by to You” was featured in. However, pires and how the protagonist of someone saying that they are no it brings about a much different the song does not seem to realize

Voting Editorial, continued from page 2 Covid Update, continued from tion in the world – out of 162 to the polling place, mail-in bal- extinction. We didn’t pass it to countries – based on factors like lots are now an option for every our children in the bloodstream. page 4 rule of law, security and safety, registered voter in the common- It must be fought for, protected, movement, religion, expression wealth. You don’t even have to and handed on for them to do the students forced to quarantine are and information, and regulation pay for postage. s am e .” generally related. of business. Really, there’s no excuse not to It’s up to us to protect those La Roche is coordinating with American citizens aren’t forced vote. freedoms by showing up to vote. the Allegheny County Health De- into a term of mandatory military Recently, I’ve heard some peo- It’s how we make our voices partment in regards to quarantine service, which is required in 26 ple arguing that their vote doesn’t heard. It’s how we have a say in orders, McCarthy said. countries, ranging from Switzer- count, that it’s not worth it. our government. McCarthy reiterated in her land and Norway to North Korea That couldn’t be further from Be an educated voter. Learn email to students that the univer- and Iran. the truth. about the candidates. Research sity will take disciplinary action According to Business Insider, It was a mere 537 votes in Flor- their platforms. Understand against students not abiding by America is one of the countries ida that gave George Bush an edge the issues America is facing and the school’s covid-19 rules. with the lowest tax rates. over Al Gore in the 2000 election. how each candidate proposes to Regarding the enforcement of Yet when it comes to going to It’s possible that we see small solve them. Vote for candidates such rules off-campus, McCarthy the polls on Election Day, some margins again this year, mean- whose ideals and visions match said, “We rely on our students to Americans act like it’s asking too ing each and every vote could be your own. Vote for candidates communicate with us and we are much. consequential – particularly in a who will secure freedom, liberty, grateful that students have been Really, voting is the least you swing state like PA. justice, and all the freedoms that open and honest.” can do. It’s imperative to remember make America the “shining city For updated information re- It’s your civic duty. But it’s also that the rights we hold so dear on a hill,” as Reagan called it. garding La Roche’s covid-19 case your sacred right. were costly – and we have to re- When you cast your ballot, count, visit the school’s online Is your time really too precious main vigilant to keep them. don’t underestimate the magni- dashboard at https://www.la- to dedicate a few minutes to cast- As President Ronald Reagan tude of your vote. roche.edu/COVIDcases/. ing a ballot? I think not. And if said, “Freedom is never more As Sam Adams said, “Let each you really can’t squeeze in a drive than one generation away from citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote that he is not making a present or a compli- “Freedom is never more than one genera- ment to please an individual – or tion away from extinction.” at least that he ought not so do; but that he is executing one of the -Ronald Reagan most solemn trusts in human so- ciety for which he is accountable to God and his country.”

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 20 Election History, continued from page 3

The sharp political contrast of educational opportunities and through recent Supreme Court swing state for nearly 200 years, may follow local geographic business investment.” nominees,” Forrest said, in refer- although the types of political di- lines. Urban areas, like Allegheny Those differences impact vot- ence to the Supreme Court case visions have changed over time,” County, tend to sway Democrat. ers’ choices on election day. that legalizes abortion, which the Forrest said, noting that the reli- Rural areas, like Washington “[Rural voters] may be more Catholic Church opposes. gious and economic divisions of County, favor Republicans. open to Republican efforts to Forrest said Hispanic-Ameri- the 19th century have recently “There is a harsh divide be- blame previous Democratic ad- cans will likely lean more Demo- been replaced with more geo- tween rural and urban areas ministrations for their economic cratic – though he noted that Cu- graphic divisions. around here – although it soft- malaise,” Forrest said. ban-Americans in Florida tend to Philadelphia and Pittsburgh – ens a bit once you get to the sub- Demographic breakdowns can sway “overwhelmingly Republi- and, to a lesser extent, Erie and urbs which tend to be a bit more provide some indicators of how c an .” Harrisburg – are likely to vote mixed,” Forrest said. certain groups will vote, but that’s He also cited some polls that Democratic. Rural counties will Part of that divide could be not an exact science. suggest Black voters will likely likely vote Republican. attributed to ethnic and racial “Political science studies make cast their ballots in numbers Forrest urged voters to exer- differences in their populations. clear that this is a complex ques- not seen since former President cise their voting rights and turn Forrest said that urban areas tend tion and it is not always easy to Barack Obama’s elections. They’ll up at the polls. Voting matters, to be more familiar with “inter- assume that any single group will likely support Biden. he said. ethnic and mixed racial lifestyle,” vote along historical lines,” For- As far as age-based demo- “Pennsylvania could be the while rural areas have a “more rest said. graphics, Forrest said, it’s hard to state that determines the outcome homogenous demographic.” According to Forrest, Jews and predict whether the youth vote of the November 2020 election, Another factor could be eco- Catholics have been known to will show up at the polls in suf- and it is plausible that just a few nomic disparities between rural vote for liberal candidates. But ficient numbers to determine the hundred votes – possibly includ- and urban areas. this year, Catholics may vote Re- outcome. ing yours, and that of a few dozen “This urban versus rural juxta- publican, as Supreme Court Jus- “Elderly voters are much more students – could actually deter- position reflects changes in both tice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s death reliable voters,” he said. “They do mine the outcome,” Forrest said. the cities and the rural areas,” has left an opening on the Su- not form a coherent voting bloc, Elections have been won on Forrest said. “The cities became preme Court. President Donald however, and their support for a small margins before, he noted. much more ethnically and racial- Trump has nominated conserva- particular party varies from one The 2000 election, in which Presi- ly diverse, well-educated, and po- tive Judge Amy Coney Barrett, a state to another.” dent George W. Bush was elected, litically tolerant. The rural areas practicing Catholic. As the election nears, Pennsyl- was decided by a mere 537 votes. still have not recovered from the “There are some more reli- vania will be an important state For those planning to vote, decline of the mining and manu- giously-oriented Catholics who to watch. With 20 electoral votes, Forrest said issues like democrat- facturing industries, and they might be tempted to support Re- Pennsylvania remains a swing ic norms, rule of law, racial equal- have lost population, while re- publican candidates due to their state. ity and health care will likely be maining under-funded in terms effort to reverse Roe v. Wade “Pennsylvania has been a major factors.

Colorful Creations

© Caroline Maxwell

Students, including sophomore Anthony Provident, used side walk chalk to decorate the sidewalks behind Bold Hall.

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 21 Maher, continued from page 7

ence with Catholicism, as well as Since the age of 20, Maher She had been working on the flows through your veins, it may reading the Hebrew and Chris- knew she had wanted to be a “Bright Air Settling Around Us” be hard to simply begin. But tian Testament. poet. Her “aha” moment came to off and on for decades, as a project when a writer finds their fire and “I think because I grew up with her as a junior in college when that she would return to whenev- is wondering what to do now, Catholicism, I just fell in love with her contemporary poetry profes- er she had free time. When all of Maher says to start absorbing as the prayers,” Maher said. “It’s re- sor brought in visiting authors. her daughters went off to school, much knowledge as you can. ally the words of the prayers that One was than Robert Kelly, a she focused on finishing the man- “Read as much as you can,” attracted me.” prolific poet from New York. Ma- uscript. She finished in late sum- Maher said. “You have to im- Along with the words, Ma- her remembers that he looked mer of 2018 and submitted it to merse yourself in the works of her was drawn to certain paint- like an ordinary middle-aged publishers. Her manuscript was other poets and writers, because ings, like Caravaggio’s “Death of man, perhaps a bit scruffy. picked up by Main Street Rag classes will only get you so far. the Virgin,” and Mantegna’s “The “I remember when he started Publishing, a press in North Car- Your biggest form of training is Dead Christ.” to read,” Maher said. “He read a olina, in April of 2019. going to come from a lifetime of “Every poet or artist has their poem about standing at the edge Maher said that having a book reading others’ work.” own field that they tend. And of a river after his death, writ- published takes persistence. For For Maher, reading is what mine has to do with visual art and ing the story of his life. An an- years, she submitted manuscripts, keeps her motivated and inspired. memory,” Maher said. gel stood off near his shoulder, only to have them met with rejec- Maher said, “The reason why I When asked how she came up watching, and the pages—once he tion. Eventually she learned to fo- read is first for a delight, but the with the other specific themes be- wrote them—flew away up into cus on reading and writing, and second is, I want to learn how to hind these poems, she reflected the air. I was just mesmerized. It not dwell on rejection. be a better person. Reading nov- on a time where she was in a writ- was as if someone had lit my veins Maher said: “(Rejection) is a els, poetry, drama, and nonfiction er’s workshop with the late poet, on fire. I knew, that’s what I want- horrible feeling, at least I felt that teaches me how to be human. Stanley Plumly. ed to do with my life. But I didn’t for a long time. And then, like an Reading has been a wonderful Maher said: “Stanley Plumly know how.” old mule, I got used to going my friend to me, and it has deep- said that you have to write about Maher’s writing process usu- own way and not caring about ened my understanding of what it the things that either scare you, or ally involves writing down a few what others thought. (With) any- means to be a human being at this that you don’t know how to say. words associated with an image one in the arts, you take the rejec- time and in this place.” A lot of the poems that took the or memory, and going from there. tion and just dust yourself off and Seeing and reading what oth- longest to write were those about But Maher says that, every time keep going.” ers create gives other writers the growing up. Or, memories about she sits down to write, she has to Who gets published and who courage to begin, to keep going, living with depression and strug- press through an inner voice that doesn’t is often a matter of per- and to finish. gling through that before I got says her writing will not be good sistence, Maher said, especially “There is literally no subject help. So much of (my poetry) has enough. when it comes to young writers. that is beyond the reach of po- to do with things that I am not “(Writing) is like getting into When one first starts out in any etry,” Maher said. “Whether it’s particularly comfortable with, but cold water. You just get in and position, it may be easy to simply bliss, joy, eroticism, violence, or it’s a way of getting control and the temperature gets warmer and give up after a failure, but trying grief, poets address those expe- processing those events. Some warmer and it gradually starts to again and working hard is what riences. Poets tackle all kinds of people do that through music, feel better. You just have to push yields true results. subjects, but how they do it—for others do that through visual art through that dread and anxiety,” And when you are a writer, me at least—I have to read and but, for me I knew it was poetry.” Maher said. with the kind of passion that listen to find out.” Sisters of Divine Providence Motherhouse

© Sarah Hefferin

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 22 Hockey, continued from page 12

in a time where nothing is hap- important to build those con- to do was make it fun,” Zalakar plex and are always looking for pening.” nections as teammates; he would said. “Instead of just showing up, support. To find out more about The team themselves grows help encourage that last year by I wanted this year to make it more the team and to get future up- every single day, both in skill and hosting group outings, such as than just games.” dates, visit them on Facebook at in friendship with one another. bowling. The inline team plays Tuesday https://www.facebook.com/lru. Zalakar said that it’s extremely “One of the things I wanted nights at the RMU Sports Com- rollerhockey.

Meet the Team The Courier is proud to introduce some of the members of the LRU inline hockey team

Name: Ryan McgGuire

Major and Year at La Roche: Senior marketing major Position: Forward/Defense

Hockey Experience: I have been playing hockey since I was 10. I played ice hock- ey throughout elementary school, middle school, and high school and I am also a middle school ice hockey coach for my old school district.

Favorite NHL Team: Die hard yinzer so obviously the Pens. Favorite NHL Player: Sidney Crosby and Patrick Kane

If you knew someone who was debating whether or not to join the team, what advice would you give them?: I would say come on out and just have fun we have all different types of skill levels and all are welcome. It’s a great group of guys and it isn’t too time consuming.

Name: Garret Berner

Major and Year at La Roche: Senior marketing major with a minor in finance Position: Defense

Hockey Experience: 4 years of organized deck hockey and first year of organized inline. Favorite Part of the Inline Team: Getting to play with my friends every Tues- day in a low pressure setting where we can just go out and have fun.

Favorite NHL Team: Pittsburgh Penguins Favorite NHL Player: Jake Guentzel

If you knew someone who was debating whether or not to join the team, what advice would you give them?: Just go for it, it’s competitive yet relaxed so you can have as much fun as you let yourself have.

Name: Anthony Hefferin

Major and Year at La Roche: Freshman Business Management Major Position: Goalie

Hockey Experience: 9 years experience Favorite Part of the Inline Team: Being able to continue to play the game of hockey and being able to make new friends.

Favorite NHL Team: Pittsburgh Penguins Favorite NHL Player: Phil Kessel

If you knew someone who was debating whether or not to join the team, what advice would you give them?: To do it. It’s accepting of all skill levels and everyone is there to have fun and make friends.

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 23

Name: Tyler Bowman Major and Year at La Roche: Senior Marketing and Management major Position: Offense; I mostly play Left Wing or Center. I enjoy Playing Center, be- cause I’ve been doing very well with taking Faceoffs.

Hockey Experience: This is my first season of playing on a organized roller hock- ey team. I have been playing Dek Hockey for about 7 years now. This past Christ- mas, I asked for a pair of Roller Blades, and I have been working very hard at learn- ing how to skate and combine my previous hockey experience. Favorite Part of the Inline Team: Watching everyone’s playing styles and skills. As a beginner it’s very important to get the mental reps of watching the more ad- vanced guys skate and play. It drives me to keep practicing and getting better. I also really enjoy playing the sport with my friends and seeing how we are all getting better. My favorite memory so far, was watching Garret Berner play as our back-up goalie for our own game, and he made an amazing cross crease save on a 2-on-1.

Favorite NHL Team: Pittsburgh Penguins. Favorite NHL Player: Sidney Crosby

If you knew someone who was debating whether or not to join the team, what advice would you give them?: If someone as amateur as me, can get out there and do it, then it’s definitely worth trying to play! You will get the experience in playing competitively, while also having fun with the team. Keep working hard and practicing on your own, but you gotta have fun while doing it.

Name: Evan Whalen Major and Year at La Roche: Senior studying interdisciplinary (graphic design, photography, marketing) Position: I usually play goalie and have been since 7th grade but I’m playing on defense for La Roche because I wanted to skate out again.

Hockey Experience: Since 6th grade, mostly played for my high school Seneca Valley, got asked to play for Pittsburgh Bandits for three years over the summers of high school era. Favorite Part of the Inline Team: I enjoy getting to know everyone on the team! We all have different backgrounds and study different majors at La Roche, but it’s always fun to share the rink with the boys, we all go out to have a good time and happen to score a couple goals while doing so.

Favorite NHL Team: Pittsburgh Penguins Favorite NHL Player: Marc-Andre Fleury because he was the one that inspired me to give goaltending a try and he was always an amazing role model to look up to, I cried the day he got traded.

If you knew someone who was debating whether or not to join the team, what advice would you give them?: Give it a shot! I wasn’t even considering playing freshman year until my roommate started playing, and I’ve been on the team ever since, even after my roommate transferred after first semester.

Name: Cade Poston

Major and Year at La Roche: I am a Junior and my majors are Finance and Accounting Position: Forward

Hockey Experience: I have been playing hockey for 13 years but that was ice hockey. I started playing ice hockey at age 7 all the way up through high school. In high school I won a New York state championship my senior year. This is my first year playing any inline hockey. Favorite Part of the Inline Team: just being able to play hockey every week. I don’t have that many memories yet except for scoring my first two goals in inline this year on the same shift. Favorite NHL Team: Pittsburgh Penguins Favorite NHL Player: Sidney Crosby

If you knew someone who was debating whether or not to join the team, what advice would you give them?: I would tell a person that they should just join because it’s so laid back. You can play the games you want to play, and it’s not that big a deal if you have to miss a game. Also you don’t have to be that experienced to join. Overall it’s fun to just hang out and play some hockey every week.

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 24 Knight, continued from page 10

with … For me, like I was a Dis- jealousy, or pride, or any of those like an ideal place to be trapped. So it’s totally selfish, I get to go to ney kid too, so I grew up with things. And you kind of change However, once it starts getting work every week as opposed to, “Lizzie McGuire” and “Even Ste- the balance of it and that kind of tough to get food and everything I think we shot “StarStruck” in, vens” and the old Disney Channel gives you someone different … is closed and you’re locked in a I think it was like four weeks … movies like “Brink!” and “Moto- Christopher is probably infinitely hotel and things like that it gets a so it was like a month that I got crossed” and that kind of stuff. more talented than myself, but it little tricky. So then I was just stay- to work. And then on the Disney But for me like usually when was fun to pretend to be a rock ing positive by running around show it was 26 weeks out of the I’m trying to use TV or mov- star for a little bit. and trying to work out. I was with year that I was working. Plus they ies to kind of escape, typically I’m curious to know what you my brother and sister so that was had good press stuff. So just be- I’m watching newer stuff. There consider to be the turning point great, and then once we got home cause I like being busy, I’d have to is such fantastic television that’s in your career, like is there a spe- I’ve been trying to make sure that say Chad. But if they made a TV happening nowadays what with cific moment that you felt that I’ve been running … So I’ve been show where I got to play Chris- all the different platforms that we yes, this is it, this is where the focusing on trying to make better topher Wilde, I’d still pick Chad have available to us. I’ve been re- transformation is happening? habits … So you know drinking because that’s just really fun to be watching “Peaky Blinders” lately. I mean I think that the first less, eating better, working out, a jerk! My brother has never seen it so big step was definitely the Disney and running. I’ve been playing a In 50 years from now, when we are going back through that, show, “Sonny with a Chance” … lot of guitar and trying to get bet- people hear the name Sterling which has been fun to watch him We shot the pilot and then every- ter at that. I’ve been trying to find Knight, what is the first thing watch it because the whole show body kind of goes away for like things that I enjoy and maybe I’m that you would want them to is insane. I’m usually looking for four or six months … and then not good at so that I can get bet- think of? new stuff, but if I have to go back basically I was in Texas with my ter at it. Seeing yourself progress Kind. But hopefully, I’m still to the old stuff, I usually like all family and I got a call saying that at something I think is probably working, and directing, and pro- of the old classic Disney animat- they are picking up the show, but the best way to cope with all this ducing things. If that’s what is in ed movies. So like “Cinderella,” they’re just not picking up my op- craziness. Because you get to get store for me then great. If not, the “Beauty and the Beast,” “The Lion tion. So I was fired from the show, inside your head, focus on some- nice thing is that I’ve never been King, Mulan,” “Hercules,” and all and it made total sense because thing, and then see yourself get- one to really tie up myself to my that good stuff. they were completely changing ting better. That’s what I’ve been work. All the credit for that goes You already mentioned that the entire dynamic of the show. doing. to my mom and my dad. I know you love that people are turning So originally, I was cast to play a On that note, I was curious lots of people kind of get wrapped to these Disney shows. But how kid named Stewart, and Stewart to see how Chad Dylan Cooper up in their identity being what it does it make you feel in par- was this goody two- shoes from compared to Christopher Wilde is that they do for a living. I think ticular that people are turning Michigan. And the entire dynam- would deal with this pandemic? it’s important, especially for kids to your characters? How do you ic of the characters, like Tiffany’s Where are they quarantining at school, to know that what it feel that these people are keep- [Thornton] character Tawni was and what would you always find is that you decide to do for a job ing your characters alive to this totally different, Demi’s [Lovato] in each of their houses? does not define who you are. The day, are they still alive to you? character Sonny was totally dif- Let’s see, Chad is—what’s fun- thing that I would most like to be I think so, I mean the entire ferent, the entire kind of rela- ny is that they both live in Los known for is being kind. But if reason that I got into acting was tionship dynamic was different. Angeles. there were some Oscars or some as a means of escape. And I know And they figured out after they’d They might run into each oth- Golden Globes or some Emmys, I that doesn’t probably sound like seen the pilot and everything that er you know. wouldn’t be too upset. the healthiest thing in the world, it probably just wasn’t going to Yeah, well I think Christopher What is a character that you and it’s probably not. But there is work. So it made sense for them is down in Malibu, so he’s a little aspire to play someday, your an old quote from I think it’s like to make that change … I some- drive towards the coast. I think dream role? Humphrey Bogart or someone, a how got them to write me in as a Chad is probably more inland just I’ve always been interested in very prominant actor back in the new character, and that charac- because of the studios and where the actors that get to do biopics 40s and the 50s. But basically he ter was Chad Dylan Cooper. So I work is. So I think Chad has … I don’t think that I’m mentally said, ‘nobody got into this busi- ended up getting lucky enough to probably got a pretty nice place prepared to do that yet. I thought ness because they had a good get back on the show with all the in the Hills. He’s been a success- I was a few years ago, and then I childhood.’ And I think that’s people that I had such a great time ful TV actor so he’s doing ok. He’s thought more about it and it’s just probably fair for most people in with. And it probably worked out probably got a nice spot and he is too scary. So I would like to get to the entertainment industry, espe- for the best because Chad was a hanging out there. He is probably the point where I would feel con- cially people on the acting or in much better character. In regards not following the rules of quaran- fident enough to do that, to take front of the camera side. It’s fun to transformation, I don’t think tine, he is probably inviting over on something as significant and to play pretend and not be your- I’ve hit it yet. people. important as portraying some- self for a little bit. So in between I want to know how you are What about Christopher, is one who is a real person … But I action and cut, my problems are staying positive because we are he following the rules, wearing also would love to do more action no longer my problems … And all going a bit crazy. Any advice the mask? stuff. I get to take on someone else’s you can give us? He is following the rules. He’s Since you said you would problems and be them for a little I was actually on a backpack- got a private beach. I don’t know want to play, when you’re ready, bit. So for me, acting is like my ing trip through Southeast Asia what the technical laws are, but to play someone in a biopic, who therapy. And I have always used with my siblings when all this he is probably out surfing and would you want to play? TV and movies as an escape like happened, which put an interest- writing a bunch of music in the I would love to play Leonardo we were talking about. The great- ing spin on things. So we were in studio and being very produc- DiCaprio … There was a young est thing I think that I get from Thailand as everything started to tive. And living probably a much Marine Corps sergeant and I read acting is to know that I am giving get a little crazy, this is in Feb- happier existence not running his story, and I was just so blown someone the ability or the oppor- ruary. And then we went from around and being chased by pa- away with his life and if anybody tunity to laugh when they need a Thailand to Vietnam and then parazzi and things like that. So, was to do a story about him, I good laugh or to cry when they Thailand kind of blew up with if he is just stuck at home he is would love to have the honor of need to cry. So it’s been wonder- coronavirus … We were kind safe and he can actually get some taking that on. But, I don’t know. ful. And I think that in regards of like running away from it. work done. I mean anybody I look like, sign to the characters staying alive, Eventually we ended up in Bali, I’ve always wanted to know, me up. my process in regards to acting and then they locked the coun- if you could have only played ei- I want to know more about is very much of tapping into dif- try down and they canceled our ther Chad or Christopher, only what your future plans career- ferent parts of myself. So I think flight, so we were stuck there for one, who would you have picked wise are for 2021. Do you have everybody has lots of aspects to a little bit. Which actually sounds to play? anything in sight, anything in their personality and it’s just kind a lot cooler than it was. Because I Chad. Just because it’s a TV mind? of playing with the ratios of anger, mean being trapped in Bali seems show so I get to work for longer. No, nothing so far. I’m work-

Read more at courier.laroche.edu The La Roche Courier - October 16, 2020 25

ing on some stuff with some when the camera shuts off and English and wasn’t staying at the just pretend it never happened. friends of mine that I’ve worked the real Sterling comes on. How hotel, and I was just by myself. with who are much more accom- would you unwind after a long When that happened I kind of The interview ended and I plished writers than myself. So shoot? Your ideal day off plans, really enjoyed taking the time by was left star struck. However, this hopefully, if we can get a good who are you with, where are you, myself to just eat some food. Usu- time I was star struck by Knight’s script together and a good pitch and what are you eating? ally like a burger or some sort of humble nature, kind demeanor, package, I’d love to get into pro- Typically I am by myself. I chicken, I’m a big meat head. and his ability to make the person ducing. There is some other stuff like decompressing alone. I did What’s the best way to cheer talking to him feel at ease. The fu- that’s kind of all preproduction in a movie that was really difficult you up? An instant way to get ture may seem uncertain to all of the works that I might be able to called “Landmine Goes Click,” Sterling to smile, what’s the first us at the moment, but I am cer- act in. Again, everything is kind and that was in a foreign coun- thing a person has to do? tain of one thing—until Knight’s of on hold right now so we will try. It’s always cool when you I usually like dad jokes. I’m a smile brightens our screens again see … I’m still auditioning and are shooting on location because fairly solitary person, so usually soon, he will forever continue to still taking meetings, doing what your friends and everybody are the best way to cheer me up is to illuminate some of our fondest I can to win the job. It’s just a con- back home, so all you have is your leave me alone and let me kind of childhood memories. stant grind … cast and your crew. I was with go through it. And then when I’m I want to know what happens primarily a crew that didn’t speak ready I’ll come say hi and we’ll

Magdalen Chapel

© Caroline Maxwell

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