Vol. 120, No. 30 Dec. 12-15, 2019 Mo’s Minions Backed by her baseball family, Mo Cooper battles breast cancer

By Matthew Knaub The Daily Collegian

Aug. 27 was the second day of classes, and coach Rob Cooper gave his team the day off. Cooper, along with his wife, Maureen, better known as Mo, and two sons, Jake and Tyson, headed home early for a relaxing afternoon. Little did Cooper know, his day was about to become anything but normal. “All of the sudden the door opened at 4:30 and she walks in and she just lost it [and] start- ed crying,” Rob said. “I knew something was up.” Mo had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. While previous medical tests had hinted that something may be wrong, the diagnosis was now official. “Oh my God, I have cancer,” Mo said she thought as the doc- tor delivered the news. “I have a family.” The first few weeks were ex- tremely tough following the diagnosis. “Mo is scared when you hear that word, I’m scared when you hear that word,” Rob said. Photo courtesy of Rob Cooper While further medical tests were conducted to study Mo’s From left, Tyson, Mo, Rob and Jake Cooper pose for a family photo. condition over the next several weeks, Rob felt an anxiousness occupied by Rob, Tyson, Jake taking me under their wing and human beings in the world,” Mo encouragement on social media a for his wife to be cured. and two male dogs, Mo plays making sure I’m okay.” said. “It touched me in that they week later. “You just feel helpless,” Rob an important role in the Cooper Shortly after Rob delivered the were so thoughtful, I cried.” Using the hashtag #MosMin- said. “You want to be able to take household. news to his team, pitcher Kyle Through both of these recog- ions, support for Mo poured in it out of her or just say, ‘Hey, ev- “Obviously, it’s scary,” Rob said Virbitsky told Matt Neri, senior nitions, Rob was amazed by his from all over the country. erything is going to be okay.’ You “She is the one that makes all of sports turf manager at Medlar team’s thoughtfulness to recog- The support on social media just want finality to it, and that’s us feel like everything’s great. Field at Lubrano Park, that the nize his wife. from outside the State College just not how it works right now.” She’s the one that tells us that ev- team should honor Mo with pink While Rob has created a family community is something that the The couple waited to gather erything’s going to be fine.” ribbons on the field. atmosphere in the program, this Coopers don’t take for granted. as much information as possible Neri and the rest of the Nittany was finally his players’ chance to “My wife and family and I are from the doctors before telling *** Lions agreed, painting a pink rib- give back. incredibly thankful to everybody their sons the news. While Mo was thinking about bon in front of each dugout. “Having that personal connec- here at Penn State and in the “Right when they told me, I was her husband, sons and relatives “Everything tion, it makes State College community that just in shock,” Tyson, a freshman in that moment, her entire “fam- that [Rob] does “[Mo] is the one what they’re have reached out, [and] coaches at Penn State, said. “I didn’t know ily” was about to show its true for us, I feel like going through in college baseball that have what to think, what to do.” size and passion. it’s only right to that makes all of us that much more reached out offering support,” From a father’s perspective, Going into his 16th season as get behind him feel like personal for Rob said. Rob said telling his sons their a Division I head baseball coach, and support us,” Virbitsky While an outpouring of love and mom had been diagnosed with one aspect of Cooper’s teams him,” Virbitsky everything’s great. said. “We’re in a willingness to help was a result cancer was the most trying con- have never changed. said. “It’s noth- She’s the one that the locker room of going public with the informa- versation he’s ever had with the The importance of family has ing that’s going playing to win tion, Rob and Mo took to Twitter pair. been a hallmark of both pro- to help cure her, tells us everything’s baseball games in the first place for the opposite “The second worst day was tell- grams Cooper helmed, previously but it’s some- going to be fine.” for Penn State, reason. ing the boys,” Rob said. “They’ve at Wright State and now at Penn thing that when but he’s fighting The couple wanted to help any- been great, their friends have State. we come out Rob Cooper a bigger fight one else that is also battling the been great, everybody around “I’d like to think that I’ve al- here every day Penn State baseball manager with his wife, disease, making sure they do not them has been great, but it’s still ways been somebody that’s been we can see, we and we’re right feel alone. their mom and that scares them, really open with my team about can get behind there for him “If it helps anybody realize but they’re in a great place.” my family. My family has always and know that for that as well. that there’s somebody else going In hindsight, Rob feels there is been a part of any team that I’ve there are bigger He’s as much through it — that’s probably the no “perfect” way to handle such a ever coached,” he said. “We’ve things out there than baseball.” of family to us as he thinks we’re biggest reason why we did it,” situation. On that night, he left his always tried to make them a part The support didn’t stop there, family to him.” Rob said. sons with a simple, yet important of our family, and always tried as the players got together to sur- The unfortunate circumstanc- message. to make our family part of the prise Mo at practice. *** es have brought the husband “If you’re scared, mad, angry, program.” The Nittany Lions recognized The support from the rest of and wife of 21 years even closer whatever, you have to come talk This personal connection be- Mo and presented her with a the Penn State, State College together. to us,” he said. “Don’t not ask tween the Nittany Lions and the sympathy card on the field, which community and beyond has been Rob takes Mo to Hershey, mom something because you Coopers have never been more was also a surprise to Rob, who huge. Pennsylvania, for most of her ap- think that’s going to bother her or evident — since Rob told his play- was on the field setting up for People from all over, including pointments and has provided lots she’s going to worry about it.” ers the diagnosis, they have been practice. fellow college baseball coaches of encouragement along the way. Mo was diagnosed with a com- nothing but supportive. “There was no doubt about it from across the country, have “It certainly makes me appre- mon form of breast cancer which, Rob’s oldest son, Tyson, is now that the guys were going to get reached out to offer words of en- ciate my husband, who is my big- according to what the doctors a freshman on the team. together and do something,” Vir- couragement. gest supporter,” Mo said. have told the Coopers, is one of While adjusting to life as a colle- bitsky said. “I think it was pretty “The support from the Penn “If it wasn’t for him, I think I the more treatable forms of the giate student-athlete has its own important to her and important State and State College commu- would’ve pulled the blankets over disease. challenges, Tyson’s new team- for us to get together sign some- nity has been almost overwhelm- my head and called it a month.” “She reassured me that every- mates have helped him through thing, and at least let her know ing,” Mo said. thing was going to be fine and this especially difficult time. that we’re always thinking about But Rob was never surprised *** there’s nothing to worry about,” “Everybody on the team has her.” at how the Penn State community Cancer has changed the way Tyson said. “I feel like from that made me sure that I know that The kind gesture showed just responded. both Mo and Rob view their lives. point on I was pretty confident I can go to them for whatever, how close the Nittany Lions are “It’s been pretty awesome, it’s Mo now appreciates her fam- that she was going to be okay.” whenever,” Tyson said. “I feel like with the Cooper family. been pretty emotional,” Rob said. ily, friends and the State College The lone woman in a home they’ve done a really good job of “They’re just the sweetest “I knew that I worked at an unbe- community even more and feels lievable place with unbelievable it is important to let them know. people.” “My family has always been Rob and Mo decided to make one to verbalize their love on a the news public on social media daily basis,” Mo said. about two weeks following the ini- “It [now] means more to me tial diagnosis became public, with to make sure the people that you help from some fictional friends. love know you love them.” During the week following When asked, Rob reflected Mo’s diagnosis, the Coopers had upon his life’s journey up to this little details about the disease’s point. impacts. Outspoken about his previous To ease the uncertainty, Rob struggles with mental health, would send her GIFs and text Rob currently feels confident messages featuring the minions about his ability to cope with the from the movie “Despicable Me.” situation. “We’ve always thought the “Because I’ve been willing to movies were funny,” Rob said. talk about my mental health and “It’s kind of a natural thing.” I’ve taken action to go to ther- The small yellow characters apy and to do different things brightened some of Mo’s darkest throughout the last 20 years, I feel days and provided her with some like I’m at a good place to be able comic relief. to handle something like this,” he “When you get the news, it’s said. scary and frightening,” she said. “I do know for a fact that had I “When he sent them to me, they not been aggressive, and not ba- were a moment to make me smile sically gone and asked for help when I wasn’t sure what was go- over the last 20 years for therapy ing on. I was able to prevent my and talking it out and sharing it, I mind from spiraling in a direction don’t know how it would impact it I didn’t want it to be going.” right now.” Noah Riffe/Collegian Organically, the kind ges- Head coach Rob Cooper during Penn State’s game on Friday, March 15 at Medlar Field. ture turned into a motto of See Cooper, Page 2. Page 2 | Dec. 12-15, 2019 local The Daily Collegian Murder in the stacks Fifty years after the death of Betsy Aardsma, the case remains unsolved By Erin Hogge felt a bit strange actually going The Daily Collegian into the Pattee Library. “Even then, 50 years ago, the Upon arriving back to State biggest issue was the fact that College the day after Thanksgiv- the killer had not been found,” ing in 1969, a graduate student Roberts said. was murdered — and her killer’s Penn State professor emeritus identity remains unknown half a Thomas Berner was a sopho- century after her death. more when Aardsma’s life ended. A native of Holland, Michigan, He worked for the now-defunct Betsy Aardsma returned to cam- Pennsylvania Mirror at the time, pus that Friday in hopes of con- helping to cover the incident. ducting research for a class as- “I was city editor the night Bet- signment. She was in the stacks of sy was stabbed and so I remem- the Pattee Library when she was ber getting the story into the pa- stabbed once in her heart, pull- per,” Berner, a 1971 graduate who ing bookshelves down with her as studied English, said via email. she collapsed to the ground. Her “While a reporter worked on as life came to an end a few minutes many details as he could, I called later. the coroner at Centre County Some witnesses saw a man ex- Hospital in Bellefonte (that’s iting the stacks before 5 p.m. that what it was called and where it day. The Daily Collegian reported was located at the time) and tried witnesses said the man said, to get him to tell me how Betsy “Somebody better help that girl,” had died.” as he left. The coroner would not give Throughout the days, months Reagan Mulholland/Collegian Berner any information until the and years following Aardsma’s The stacks at Penn State’s Pattee Library on Nov. 20. autopsy had been completed. unsolved murder, countless ru- Today, many students seem un- mors have circulated around her aware of the murder, only learn- conducted interviews on campus the stacks, Sharpe, a 1974 gradu- Sharpe quit her job at the li- death. ing about it through others or for nearly one month, DeKok said ate who studied general arts and brary that summer to attend Some say her killer was serial he could not find the vast amount science, remembers hearing two through their own curiosity. killer Ted Bundy, as it was discov- school full-time. She never of case documents that should short screams around the time Student Brooklyn Thomas en- ered he was at Temple University worked the day after Thanksgiv- have been available to the public. Aardsma is believed to have been joys true crime, so when she came around the time of the incident. ing following the murder — even to Penn State and researched lo- “You’re going to tell me there’s stabbed — a spine-chilling addi- This theory, however, was later at her other jobs. cal crimes, she stumbled upon no memos about this from the tion to the already strange feeling disproved as law enforcement As a freshman, alumnus Hugh Betsy’s murder in fascination. [Penn State] president’s office?” she had throughout the day. did not see a correlation between Roberts returned to campus Nov. She then read a book about it and DeKok said. “It just doesn’t make Sharpe said no one believed Aardsma’s stabbing and the 30, the Sunday after Thanks- became more enthralled. any sense. she heard the screams, which murders Bundy had committed. giving, with no idea what had “I’ll be talking with my friends “Penn State did not handle she believes came from the Others speculate it was a man happened just two days prior. and I’ll bring it up and none of this well,” DeKok added. “There woman who found Aardsma whose romantic gestures she had Roberts, a 1973 graduate who them knew about it,” Thomas should be an entire file drawer of unresponsive on the floor. rejected who was angered by her studied civil engineering, lived (sophomore-accounting) said. documents, and there probably The police interviewed Sharpe dismissal of his advances. in Geary Hall “It bothers me that there’s re- were but they’re not in the Penn and the other li- While many people have their in East Halls. ally nothing on campus in State archives. That had to be a brary employees “It makes me own theories, David DeKok, au- He spoke with [Aardsma’s] memory.” conscious decision by somebody working the day thor of “Murder in the Stacks: curious as to the several friends Michael Wang had never heard that they were not going to make of the murder, al- Penn State, Betsy Aardsma, and on his floor and of the murder before, and said those publicly available.” though none of murderer’s motive the Killer Who Got Away,” said the it is “kinda crazy” something For a long time, DeKok said, them had much in the Johnston answer is clear — Richard Haef- because honestly, “so horrific” happened at the Aardsma’s murder seemed like useful information. Commons area, ner, another graduate student at university. “It just scared the same thing discovering the the time, murdered Aardsma. an urban legend. Now, it’s a “It makes me curious as to us,” Sharpe said. big news he had According to DeKok, Haefner fading memory. could happen to- the murderer’s motive because After the mur- missed. showed up at a professor’s home “You need to understand why honestly, the same thing could bad things happen so you can der, students and day.” He and a friend the night the murder occurred, decided to walk happen today,” Wang (freshman- acting in a strange manner. At one prevent them from happening faculty on campus human-centered design and again, hopefully,” DeKok said. were apprehensive, Michael Wang to the Pattee Li- point, the Pennsylvania State Po- Penn State freshman brary that night development) said. lice also believed Haefner killed DeKok grew up in Aardsma’s Sharpe said. She out of curiosity, Even after learning of the dark Aardsma. In fact, the trooper as- hometown and attended the said young women history in the stacks, Wang said although they didn’t end up going signed to the cold case told the same high school that she did, were especially nervous, and he will not be deterred from nest- inside. For the next few weeks, Aardsma family that Aardsma’s encountering many of the same an escort service was created ling at one of the small desks to case had been solved. teachers she had. so they would feel safe while Roberts said the murder was all study. “In the end, the state police “I distinctly remember when traveling campus at night. anyone talked about — in dorms, “Just because it happened in attitude toward this was very the newspaper, the Holland Eve- “We were afraid because we dining halls and classrooms. stacks doesn’t mean it’s an un- strange,” DeKok said. “It’s like ning Sentinel, arrived on Nov. 29 didn’t know why she was killed,” “You have to realize that events safe area,” Wang said. “It could they almost don’t want it to be of 1969 and seeing her picture at Sharpe said. “Everyone was such as Betsy Aardsma’s killing happen anywhere and I’m not solved.” the top of page one with the story afraid it would happen again.” in such a violent way were ex- just going to abandon campus Although 40 state troopers that she had been murdered at Students’ imaginations ran tremely uncommon back then,” because of some tragedy that Penn State,” DeKok said. “That wild, Sharpe said, some testify- Roberts said. happened 50 years ago.” kind of stuck with me.” ing Aardsma was a prostitute of Young women were uncom- Those who were on campus at sorts or a nude model for the arts fortable walking around alone at To email reporter: [email protected]. the time left the sleuthing to the department — neither of which night, Roberts said, but everyone Follow her on Twitter at @erinhogge. police. were true. Alumna Cheryl Sharpe de- “There were so many rumors scribed herself as a “naive” and nobody knew what the truth 19-year-old working as a clerk was,” Sharpe said. in the library directly above the Sharpe said security cameras spot Aardsma was murdered the were installed in the library ele- day it happened. She said the li- vators, and anyone who needed to brary was practically empty, like go to the second core level had to a ghost town, as most students be escorted. Because of this, staff had not yet returned from their members tried to avoid the area. Thanksgiving festivities. Sharpe also remembers a Additionally, Sharpe said, be- heavy police presence in the li- cause it was the day after Thanks- brary for a month or two, with giving, only half of the library staff some areas roped off. They asked was on duty. Because she was one around for information, but no of the newer employees, she had one knew anything, making those to work that day. interviewed feel frustrated and “It was kind of creepy to begin helpless. Collegian Archives with,” Sharpe said. “It traumatized me,” Sharpe A yearbook photo of Betsy Aards- While shelving documents in said. “I still can’t help thinking Jack R. Hirsh/Collegian ma, who died in the stacks in 1969. either the fifth or sixth core of about it.” Several Collegian headlines from the Betsy Aardsma case.

Cooper has been heavily in- more personal and it hits home Rob said. “It doesn’t make what in medicine and treatment and Cooper volved with The Pediatric Brain more for me and my family,” Ty- my wife has okay, but you just things like that for cancer is From Page 1 Tumor Foundation and their fun- son said. “It just adds that much think those poor kids they have absolutely mind-blowing.” draising campaign, Vs. Cancer. more incentive to try to go out no choice but to do that and that’s While Rob and his baseball Rob feels his ability to handle Proceeds from the campaign help and raise as much money as we all they know as a little kid.” teams have done so much for can- the tough circumstances are just fund research related to finding a can for the cause.” While the Nittany Lions are al- cer, the sport has also given him a another reason why people deal- cure for pediatric brain tumors as As a result of his philanthropic ways on the road for Penn State’s healthy escape from his times of ing with mental health concerns well as providing family support efforts, Rob was named one of the annual THON dance marathon, trouble. should seek help. and child life programs. Pediatric Brain Tumor Founda- the team has also hosted annual Knowing that he has the full “That’s why I try to encour- Since Rob tion’s inaugural THON games and even shaved support of his coaching staff and age people all the time, go talk to arrived at “My wife is a Baseball Vs. Can- their heads postgame in an act of players, the game Rob knows somebody, go see somebody, be- Penn State in badass. She’s going cer Ambassadors. support. and loves is his only focus at cause you’re not alone,” Rob said. 2014, the Nit- Made up of fellow They have raised money for practice. “When you’re going through it tany Lions have to destroy cancer.” coaches, players Penn State Children’s Hospi- “You have a three-hour block you think you’re in the minority, helped raise and media mem- tal’s Four Diamonds, helping to where you’re able to not think Rob Cooper and the fact is you’re actually in nearly $50,000 bers, the ambas- “conquer childhood cancer.” about it for a little bit,” Rob said. the majority, and there is a lot of for Vs. Cancer Penn State baseball manager sadors represent “I know that what we do here With a strong support system power and strength in numbers.” and continue to the entire athletic at Penn State with the THON and a loving family, Rob is cer- hold annual Vs. community in their is for the children, but it goes tain his wife’s toughness will help *** Cancer games. This fall, Penn efforts to raise awareness and hand-in-hand,” Rob said. carry her through. While the Coopers have only State has already raised over funds for childhood brain tumors. “It goes hand-in-hand from the “My wife’s a badass, she’s recently been directly impacted $6,300, which ranks second in col- “You think about the parents standpoint of all that money that’s going to destroy cancer.” by cancer, they have been fight- lege baseball, trailing only Texas that are driving their five-year- being raised around the world to ing to find a cure for the disease A&M. old daughter or five-year-old son, try to find a cure. The amount of To email reporter: [email protected]. for years. “It definitely makes it a lot and they’ve got tubes in them,” advancement that’s been made Follow him on Twitter at @Matt_Knaub. OPINIONElena Rose Lindsey Toomer Colsen Ackroyd Dec. 12-15, 2019 Editor in Chief Opinion Page Editor Business Manager Page 3 Penn State fans should support the men’s basketball team The men’s basketball excuses don’t exist so program has never OUR VIEW far this season. been the center of Penn Nittany Lion fans State sports fans’ atten- Now that the Penn State program is haven’t supported the tion. And it makes basketball team sense — the Nittany performing, fans need to start showing up because they just Lions haven’t been haven’t been a good ranked in the AP’s top country are beginning on a cold Tuesday night State fans and alumni team, historically. 25 since 1996. to recognize this itera- was impressive, given who aren’t from State Penn State simply According to the Big tion of Penn State bas- the amount of students College to travel to a isn’t what fans regard Ten attendance records, ketball as one of the Big who are not die-hard game. as “a basketball Penn State has aver- Ten’s better teams. sports fans and the For football games, school,” having only aged just over 6,700 It’s time Penn State inconvenience of fans can make a week- appeared in nine fans at each of its six sports fans recognize attending weekday end trip out of a game NCAA Tournament’s home games so far this this, too, especially games. Once the team — but unfortunately for over the program’s long season. because basketball is a starts to show some basketball, not many history. That ranks third-worst sport where the fans promise, the fans show are willing to drive But this year just has in the Big Ten, ahead of can affect the outcome up. But while the fan three hours from Pitts- a different feel to it, and only Rutgers and North- of the game, perhaps section overflowed to burgh or Philadelphia there is no way of know- western. Ten of the con- more than any other. the seats behind the for games on Tuesdays ing when the team will ference’s 14 teams Take a look at Tues- basket, the rest of the or Wednesdays, which be this good again — so attract at least 10,000 day night’s game — arena didn’t have is when half the home they deserve to see fans per game. 8,643 people went to the enough non-student games are played. some support this time The difference is that Bryce Jordan Center to fans to open the upper But the students who around. while Penn State, at 8-2, support Penn State tier of seating. In fact, consistently show up College basketball is playing like an NCAA against Maryland, a curtains block the sec- and support the basket- gets national attention, Tournament team, Rut- top-5 team, and the Nit- ond level for almost ball team every game and this year Penn gers and Northwestern tany Lions dominated every basketball game. deserve credit for State has the opportuni- likely won’t even earn from start to finish, win- It makes sense that spreading the word and ty to be a part of it. an NIT bid this season. ning the game 76-69. attendance is low when bringing more local fans Penn State students After years of playing Pat Chambers and star the team isn’t playing into the BJC. often find themselves second fiddle to other senior forward Lamar well. In the past, students looking for entertain- sports on campus, the Stevens both said after In general, however, haven’t shown support ment without football basketball team boasts Tuesday’s game that turnout has always because “the atmo- games during the exciting players and some of the fans’ ener- been low compared to sphere is dull” and “the spring semester, and plenty of depth, and col- gy rubbed off on the other Power Five team doesn’t play well.” now is the time to give lege basketball fans and team. schools because of how If last night’s game is the basketball team the analysts around the The student turnout difficult it is for Penn any indication, these chance they deserve.

MY VIEW | Madeline Messa Photography gave me a new way to see someone else’s perspective

I gained a newfound appreci- readable photo without all the “I made a connection was grateful to see there is Collegian Inc. 112 West Foster Avenue State College, PA 16801-3882 ©2019 Collegian Inc. ation for photography this adjustments the DSLR needed, with someone and actually a resource for autistic semester; I realized it’s not as but, after some practice, (and adults in State College. Plus, simple as press- actually reading the manual) I created a photo story the project’s pets and sensory Board of Editors ing down on the was impressed with what I that will hopefully room made for eye-catching Editor in Chief Elena Rose shutter. Like viewed on the camera’s make a difference photos. other forms of display. I shadowed Krupa for a few Managing Editor Tyler King journalism, it is I enrolled in the class think- and bolster more hours as she volunteered at Digital Managing Editor a means to cap- ing my assignments would be Shaver’s Creek, and I capital- places like the Acres David Eckert ture and inter- laid out for me. I thought I’d be Project.” ized on camera angles when I Opinions Editor pret glimpses of photographing public speakers Madeline Messa was invited into owl enclosures and News Social Media Editor Messa the world, a way at on-campus events. Instead, as they were fed mice. I com- Lindsey Toomer to showcase half of the work was figuring piled a photo story, and I used News Editor someone’s story. out who, what, when and of resources for it. As autism is captions to signify the resem- Maddie Aiken I picked up a DSLR — a where I would shoot. It was a spectrum, I fathomed the blance between animals’ Assistant News Editor roughly $1200 camera — with tougher, but I was glad to get best way to generate under- heightened senses and the Lauren Fox zero photography experience. the full experience by enlisting standing was to present sensory processing difficulties Features & Investigation Editor As the final class for my jour- my own subjects. diverse perspectives. I can give that often accompany autism Lilly Forsyth nalism major, I thought it Then came the photo story. I my own take, but I can do so in humans. Arts & Lifestyle Editor would be fun to end off with a was assigned to find someone much more by reporting some- Best of all, I felt I made a Chelsea Kun photojournalism course as an to meet up with on three sepa- one else’s. connection with someone, and Sports Editor elective. It was an easy option, rate occasions to showcase A few emails later, and I was I created a photo story that Matt Lingerman Assistant Sports Editor right? who they are. Fortunately, I at the Acres headquarters with will hopefully make a differ- Jake Aferiat On day one, I was already didn’t have to find my subject; Mary Krupa, formerly known ence and bolster more places Assistant Sports Editor lost with the abundance of she found me. as Penn State’s “squirrel girl.” like the Acres Project. An Shane Connelly information I had to know — An organizer of the Acres The Collegian recently pub- assignment and a camera were Football Editor and these were just the basics. Project, a resource for autistic lished a sort of “where are all it took for me to step for- Dylan Jacobs No one ever reads user manu- adults, emailed me suggesting they now” article on Krupa ward and engage in a conver- Multimedia Editor als; we just wing it. we get in touch following a col- and Sneezy, the squirrel she sation that I might not have Jack Hirsh But improvising with the umn I wrote about wanting to routinely dressed in costumes. otherwise. Photo Editor wheels and buttons on the advocate for people with Although I did not get the plea- Caitlin Lee camera resulted in images autism. For readers who are sure of photographing Sneezy’s Madeline Messa is a senior majoring Assistant Photo Editor washed out by the sun or tint- unfamiliar, I am on the autism good side, I did get the oppor- in digital & print journalism and is a Aabha Vora ed purple. At first, I was frus- spectrum and want to dispel tunity to illustrate snippets of columnist for The Daily Collegian. Email To contact News Division: News, Opinions, Arts, Sports, Photo, Graphics, The trated that my phone camera stereotypes about the disorder Krupa’s life. her at [email protected] or follow Daily Collegian Online and The Weekly Collegian would guarantee a and encourage the formation I got to explore Acres and her on Twitter at @madeline_messa. Phone: 814-865-1828 | Fax: 814-863-1126 Board of Managers We want to hear from you verification. Letters should be opinion is determined by its als. Penn State students write Business Manager signed by no more than two peo- Board of Opinion, which is made and edit both papers and solicit Send us your comments on Colsen Ackroyd ple. Members of organizations up of members of its Board of advertising for them during the our coverage, editorial decisions Vice President must include their titles if the Editors, with the editor in chief fall and spring semesters as well and the Penn State community. Rachel Weber topic they write about is connect- holding final responsibility for as the second six-week summer Email: editorinchief@ Advertising Manager ed with the aim of their groups. content. The opinions expressed session, The Daily Collegian Scott Witham psucollegian.com The Collegian reserves the right on the editorial page are not publishes Monday and Thursday. Creative Director Online: collegian.psu.edu to edit letters. The Collegian can- necessarily those of Collegian Issues are distributed by mail to Hannah Degler 123 S. not guarantee publication of all Inc., a separate institution from other Penn State campuses and Postal Mail/In Person: Marketing Director Burrowes St., State College, PA letters. Letters chosen also run Penn State. subscribers. 16801 on The Daily Collegian Online Elizabeth Blanchfield Letters should be about 200 and may be selected for publica- About the Collegian Complaints Business Insights Director words. Student letters should tion in The Weekly Collegian. All The Daily Collegian and The News and editorial complaints Cindy Chen include class year, major and letters become property of Colle- Weekly Collegian are published should be presented to the edi- Sales Director campus. Letters from alumni gian Inc. by Collegian Inc., an indepen- tor. Business and advertising Ethan Thilavanh should include graduation year. dent, nonprofit corporation with complaints should be presented To contact Business Division: Advertising, circulation, accounting and classifieds All writers should provide their Who we are a board of directors composed of to the business manager. Phone: 814-865-2531 | Fax: 814-865-3848 address and phone number for The Daily Collegian’s editorial students, faculty and profession- 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays SPORTSPage 4 Dec. 12-15, 2019

Photo by Caitlin Lee/Collegian MY VIEW | MATT LINGERMAN Tuesday’s win was more than an upset Tuesday’s win over No. 4 this win separating itself as per- It’s a nice luxury to have a many easy points on the break. possessions didn’t involve Ste- Maryland wasn’t Penn State’s haps more than an early-season star like Stevens to lean on A few sloppy possessions later, vens — because they didn’t have first upset victory in the Pat marquee win. when the going gets tough, but Maryland was within two points to. The Nittany Lions didn’t Chambers era. “In previous years, it was to have Stevens in addition to of tying the game. force-feed their star, and their In fact, it was always like, a hero that would role players who can step up in While most teams in that situ- star didn’t ask to be force-fed. Chambers’ 15th step up and be the reason why the guts of the game is what will ation would elect to slow down Second, at a pivotal moment win with Penn we won the game,” Lamar Ste- make Penn State a contender in the offense and work the ball to of the game when Maryland had State over a top- vens said. “Tonight it was every- the perhaps country’s deepest the best player, that style of play just gone on a 10-3 run to cut 25 team, the most body. Everybody really contrib- conference. doesn’t truly lend itself to Penn the deficit to a bucket, Penn of any coach in uted in big moments. And I “It takes a huge burden off my State. The Nittany Lions’ offense State didn’t waver. It played program history. think that’s why we have the shoulders,” Stevens said. “Just isn’t built to work efficiently in within itself and to its strengths, But Tuesday’s makings of a good team.” knowing that I can trust every- the halfcourt, and Stevens was using defensive playmakers to win over the The box score certainly backs body and other guys will step double teamed on almost all of right the ship at the other end of Terps, the Nittany Lions’ first that up, with up, if I’m not his touches. the floor. conference win of the season, five different feeling it that So instead of allowing Mary- Penn State came off a loss — had a different feel to it than Nittany Lions night. It just land to take over the pace of the which could have spiraled, as recent upset victories. hitting double “It’s not going to allows me to game, Penn State continued to Stevens joked after Tuesday’s For one, as Maryland coach figures and four just play freely pay the brand of basketball it win, into 10 losses — and confi- Mark Turgeon said after the players attempt- punch our ticket, and just play my wanted to. dently beat a team that will be game, Penn State was simply ing at least 11 but it’s definitely game.” Izaiah Brockington ripped the playing meaningful basketball in the better team for 40 minutes. field goals, none That much ball from a Terp in the back- March. The Nittany Lions are Sure, Maryland didn’t play up of whom going to help us was proven mid- court and fed it to Mike Watkins looking like a team that will be to its standards, but the win exceeded 15 way through the for a dunk. On the next Penn playing meaningful basketball wasn’t a fluke. shots. Compare get where we’re second half, State possession, Myreon Jones that month, too. The Nittany Lions set the that with last when Maryland blew by a defender for an “They’re all big games, but I tempo from the opening tip and year’s upset of trying to go.” began to close inverted layup. think this game could help us in led for more than 38 minutes of then-No. 6 Mich- Pat Chambers the gap thanks And then, after Turgeon called March,” Chambers said. “It’s play. Chambers says time and igan, when Ste- to some timely a timeout, Brockington jumped not going to punch out our tick- Coach again he wants his team to play vens led all shooting and in front of a passing lane for his et, but it’s definitely going to fast, and on Tuesday, Penn State scorers with 26 intensified third steal of the night and took help us where we’re trying to forced Maryland to adapt its but attempted defense. it 50 feet to the hoop for a right- go.” style in order to try and keep up 23 shots from The Terps handed flush. with the Nittany Lions. the field and another 13 from the took better care of the ball, and What’s significant about this? To email reporter: [email protected]. But there’s another level to charity stripe. Penn State wasn’t able to get as First, those three consecutive Follow him on Twitter at @linger_man. Brockington provides spark off the bench By Caleb Wilfinger nearly 25 minutes,and finished The daily collegian with 14 points on 5-of-12 shoot- ing. He was plus-12 for the game, Mark Turgeon was quick to which was the highest out of any heap praise on Izaiah Brocking- player on the floor. ton. On Tuesday, Brockington got As the Maryland head coach going early on, converting on a spoke to the media following his pair of layups in the first half to team’s 76-69 loss to Penn State on extend the lead for the Nittany Li- Tuesday, he couldn’t help but laud ons and quickly put the Terrapins Brockington’s performance. in a quick hole. “Yeah, he was terrific, he was “Where he really got going was aggressive, he’s a really good when they did a side ball screen, player,” Turgeon said. “He’s a ter- the same play they ran for [Josh] rific athlete, terrific defender. He Reaves when he was here, and made timely shots.” we didn’t react to it,” Turgeon Brockington was forced to sit said. “He got two layups, they got out for the entirety of the 2018-19 away from us — outscored us 18- season after transferring from St. 10 during that stretch — and kind Bonaventure due to NCAA regu- of got him going.” lations, and it took him awhile As the game wore on and Mary- to get integrated into the flow of land clawed its way back into Penn State’s offense. striking distance, it appeared as if Caitlin Lee/Collegian But Penn State’s biggest win of Penn State was going to succumb Izaiah Brockington celebrates making a basket against Maryland at the Bryce Jordan Center on Dec. 10. the season would not have come to ghosts of years past and let this without the services of its spark chance for a massive conference like it was turning in favor of the left wing as the shot clock ex- the ultimate confidence in him,” plug off the bench. win slip away. the fourth-ranked Terrapins, pired. The lead was back up to six Chambers said. The redshirt sophomore played But every time the game felt Brockington wouldn’t let it. points, and Penn State wouldn’t “He puts the work in, he lives It started with a steal. look back. in the gym. I know his percentage After Penn State’s lead was cut “That 3 was a huge shot,” right now overall isn’t great, but to 52-50 — the closest the game Lamar Stevens said. he knows a once you step jump- had been since the opening four “And I knew it was going in be- er open, that’s a good shot for minutes — Brockington picked cause that’s just the player he is, him.” the pocket of Makhi Mitchell and and how he prac- Brockington found Watkins under the basket tices. He makes was coming off for an uncontested dunk. big time shots his best game “The steal was big,” Chambers like that, so it “He’s fearless. He’s of the season on said. wasn’t a surprise very aggressive, Saturday, but it “The steal was so big because I to me.” came in a losing don’t really teach jamming the re- The emer- and he’s hard to effort against bounder, but I think his intuition gence of Brock- guard. So we want then-No. 6 Ohio or his instincts, really stepped up ington gives the State. there. That was a big basket.” Nittany Lions an him to come in and The Nittany Two minutes later, Brockington elite athlete off be that spark off the Lions were wait- found the ball in his hands after the bench, one ing for their a Maryland turnover and quickly that is not only bench. He was that unofficial sixth sprinted the length of the floor an excellent on- tonight.” man to make for a dunk that sent the Bryce ball defender, an impact in a Jordan Center crowd into a fren- but also a rota- Lamar Stevens win, and his ef- tion player that zy. Forward forts on Tuesday Even after displaying his can pick up criti- were essential to awareness in turning defense cal baskets when what could be a to offense in critical situations, his team needs it season-defining Brockington was not done. the most. victory for this After an Anthony Cowan layup But part of why he had the con- program. cut the Penn State lead to 58-55, fidence to attempt a 3-pointer un- “He’s fearless. He’s very ag- the Nittany Lions appeared to be der those circumstances is due to gressive, and he’s hard to guard,” in the middle of another wasted the belief that has been instilled Stevens said. “So we want him to possession at the other end of the in him by Chambers and the rest come in and be that spark off the floor. of Penn State’s coaching staff. bench. He was that tonight.” That is, until Brockington “[Brockington] is not going to Caitlin Lee/Collegian found the ball in his hands and shoot that 3-pointer unless he To email reporter: [email protected]. Izaiah Brockington dunks the ball against Maryland on Dec. 10. connected on a 3-pointer from knows that his head coach has Follow him on Twitter at @caleb_wilfinger. The Daily Collegian SPORTS Dec. 12-15, 2019 | Page 5 How Sam Coffey found her purpose By Madeline Lapreziosa “There are a few [bible verses] tive and negative, on a daily basis. The Daily Collegian that we really share, that we re- “Sometimes it’s just what hap- ally consider the all-time greats, pened that day, sometimes it’s Seconds before kickoff, when and Philippians 4:13 is abso- what’s bothering me, sometimes the team huddle breaks and lutely right at the top of the list,” it’s things I just need to surrender each player gets set for the in- Wayne said. and give to God, sometimes it’s tense 90-minute As fundamental to her uniform prayer requests for other people, battle to ensue, as her shin guards or her cleats, just what’s on my mind, or what WOMEN’S Sam Coffey rests Sam’s wrist tape also serves I’m thankful for,” Sam said. SOCCER on one knee at as a constant reminder of her “It definitely just helps me midfield. inherent purpose. find peace and just check in with In demonstration of her Chris- “I just write ‘joy’ on it too ‘cause myself with where I’m at.” tian faith, Sam habitually says a at the end of the day, if I’m not out To Sam, writing is not only pregame prayer as a final sense there having fun, then I’m not an outlet, but also a means of of calmness prior to immersing doing it for the right reasons,” keeping her faith strong. herself in the game she loves. she said. “In my eyes, it is a form of “I love being able to do it in a “I got ‘serve’ as well, just like prayer,” she said. “It’s a way of public setting,” she said. “I think serving the people around me communicating with myself and it’s really special to have that, ob- trying to make the people around also communicating to God.” viously. I don’t care who sees me me the best that they can be and Sam emphasized that while when I’m there, that’s the most in doing that, they help me be the her parents played a role in her important part of my life and just best that I can be and obviously discovery of faith, they always al- to have that moment of peace serving God with that.” lowed her grow into her beliefs on and stillness before a game, no While she sports some of the her own. matter how big.” same elements on her wrist ev- “My parents believe but never That isn’t the only avenue ery game, Sam enjoys changing imposed their beliefs on me, through which Sam channels her up the subtleties of the design to which I think is why I was able to faith on the soccer field. Etched match her present mindset. find it so much,” she said. on the white tape wrapped around “I’ll add some stuff if I’m feel- “I think having it as some- each of her wrists are various ing it, if there’s a theme for a cer- thing that I was able to find, personal messages and symbols tain week,” she said. “Something not something that was like in tribute to her individuality and, recently that I’ve been thinking ‘mom and dad are drag- most importantly, her faith. about is just like this idea of vic- ging me to church again,’ was Sam’s array of religious allu- tory and not succumbing to fear, really important for me.” sions includes a singular cross, so I’ll write ‘victory over fear’ in The approach that Wayne as well as “AO1,” an acronym for just that we have nothing to be and his wife Denise took toward “Audience of One.” She writes afraid of at this point.” transmitting their faith to Sam Samantha Wilson/Collegian “4:13,” alluding to the bible verse If it isn’t obvious already, Sam and her two older siblings mirrors Midfielder/Forward Sam Coffey runs with the ball during the Big Ten Philippians 4:13, which reads, “I exhibits a natural aptitude for Sam’s subtle, yet powerful man- quarterfinals against Iowa at Jeffrey Field on Sunday, Nov. 3. can do all things through Christ writing. As a journalism major ner of displaying her personal who gives me strength.” who radiates conscientiousness, connection with her beliefs. “I feel as though Samantha has loves serves as a means of rep- “That just has been my verse she conveyed that the written “We’ve never been the sort of taught me about how to be a good resenting the most meaningful since I was like seven, just like word suits her well. parents who wanted to be heavy- Christian and how to be a person aspect of her persona. writing it places and just remem- “I love writing, and I have from handed or to dictate to our chil- of faith,” he said. “I may be her “It’s when I feel closest to bering it,” Sam said. “Me and a really young age, whether that dren ‘you have to do this, you father and a mentor of sorts, but [God], it’s when I feel like I’m my dad definitely share a bond be just like in journaling or writ- have to do that,’ but what we did really I found her faith to be so glorifying Him the most,” of faith, and he’s always really ing stories or whatnot, but I’ve al- try to do, and still try to do really, strong that it lifted me up and it she said. reminded me of the truth of that ways found a lot of comfort in just is to stress the importance of be- still lifts me up to see it.” “[Soccer] is a gift from Him and verse.” writing things down,” Sam said. ing a moral person and being a “It’s been exhilarating and in- I feel like there is not a day where Her father, Wayne Coffey, a “I just find it helps me consume kind person,” Wayne said. spiring for me to watch her grow I can take it for granted. I just be- New York Times bestselling information, helps me remem- The Christian faith has been as a Christian and to live the lieve that it’s definitely something sportswriter, detailed his and ber things, helps me make sense constant in Wayne’s family dating faith-based life that she lives.” he’s given me as a way to just Sam’s mutual love for the verse, of things.” back to his grandfather, who was Although Sam’s widely shine for Him the best that I can.” recalling that at a young age, she Sam has kept journals since a minister, but he admitted that acknowledged identity is that of would inscribe the numbers on around the age of 13, in which she Sam’s devotion has profoundly a soccer player, stepping on the To email reporter: [email protected]. her shoe. records her thoughts, both posi- influenced his own perspective. field and playing the game she Follow her on Twitter at @MadzX44. 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© Pappocom WORD SEARCH © 2019 PuzzleJunction.com Page 6 | Dec. 12-15, 2019 LOcal The Daily Collegian A ‘breath of fresh air’ By Quincey Reese to as “My Life Stories.” In doing For the Collegian this, members have the chance to talk with the residents and learn Penn State student Mikayla about a variety of aspects of their Day described the officers and lives — topics ranging from early members of the Breath of Life childhood to current interests. Club a “close-knit” group with a To make full use of the mission to help improve the lives information obtained from these of those suffering from terminal discussions, the club members illness or chronic pain. also pass word of the residents’ Day (sophomore-English and interests on to Juniper Village psychology) is the current presi- faculty so that they can better dent of the club, but she has been plan activities that the residents involved with the group since last will be interested in. year. With the goal of bringing She said she was encouraged “smiles to the faces of Juniper to join by the founder of the club residents,” Day said she feels — Josh Pezzulo — but has since the group’s efforts have been come to value her experiences successful so far. Day said one with the group. of Juniper Village’s faculty Day explained Breath of Life members has even told them of Lily LaRegina/Collegian seeks to achieve its collective residents who have approached Mikayla Day (sophomore-english), president of the Breath of Life club, speaks during a club meeting in the goal by visiting with the residents her asking when the group will be Thomas Building on Tuesday, Dec. 10. of Juniper Village, an assisted back. living facility in Centre County. The Current Breath of Life of how two people could have “I wanted somebody who was cause he had everything laid out.” officers set the goal of visiting treasurer Basel Karim — who such drastically different end- passionate about the club,” he In the future, Day said she twice a month, but members has held the position since the of-life experiences kind of shook said. “[Day ] was one of, if not the would like to see members of the club are permitted and group’s foundation — said he has me. I had a philosophical awak- most active member at the time, visit Juniper Village more encouraged to go any time they found his experience with the ening and I was like, ‘I want and I figured she would benefit frequently and find new means of can. organization to be meaningful. to do something, I need to do from the leadership experience, transportation to make this “It’s heartwarming, you know? “[Volunteering] is something I something.’” so I asked her and she accepted.” possible for the group. A lot of the people there are suf- really like to do,” Karim (senior- After having witnessed Although he has since stepped Additionally, she would also like fering from chronic or terminal biochemistry and chemistry) this, Pezzulo first spoke with down from the president to see an increase in the number illnesses, and it’s really cool go- said. “It doesn’t require a lot of professor of public health Chris position, Pezzulo still volunteers of members overall. ing there and seeing their faces effort, and it’s just nice to have a Calkins to gain information about at Juniper Village and provides Pezzulo added that he hopes light up because they love when conversation with someone.” healthcare in general. the group with guidance through the group will eventually expand young people walk in there,” Day Before Day was acting He also met with the club’s a “hands-off” approach. its volunteering to hospitals and said. “I don’t know how to word it, president of the group, Pezzulo current adviser — Lisa Kitko Given his experience as an of- rehabilitation centers, as well but it’s just about being a part of (senior-chemical engineering) from the College of Nursing — to ficer, Karim similarly commented as have more members become something bigger than yourself.” was the driving force behind see what he could do to improve that he has stayed in his position certified dementia practitioners While visiting Juniper Village, the club. He said he created the the lives of elderly individuals in to help guide the current execu- — an opportunity provided by the Day said the members of the organization due to the expe- care homes and how a club could tive board in their new roles. faculty at Juniper Village. club organize a variety of activi- riences that his grandmother go about completing this goal. “I hope that the club sustains in He said he would also like to ties for the residents, including and grandfather had just before Once Pezzulo had formed the a way that is close to its roots, but inform the residents about movie days, yoga lessons, crafts their death. Pezzulo said that original executive board, the also in a way people can have fun healthcare and how to and walks outside around the while his grandmother died with group began working to complete with it,” Karim said. ensure they are not being taken facility. family and all of the resourc- Penn State’s club foundation Day said that although there advantage of financially — a She added that, in the past, stu- es she needed around her, his requirements, got in contact with have been some complications common problem in the elderly dent performers from the group grandfather had quite the oppo- Juniper Village about volunteer- as a result of a complete change community. have put on shows to entertain site death. ing and marketed the club to the in the officer board roles — Overall, Pezzulo said his efforts the residents. Likewise, student “When he was on his deathbed, student population. with the exception of Karim as with Breath of Life have done a athletes have given presenta- my mom went down to go see The club was officially founded treasurer — she has not had a great deal in shaping his college tions about their involvement in him, and she found him covered in September 2017, Pezzulo’s difficult time coming into the posi- experience. Penn State sports, bringing in in his own feces, level of con- sophomore year. As a senior this tion because of Pezzulo’s previous “Building a connection with their helmets or other equipment sciousness just completely out of year, he said he wanted to find foundational work. these people and being able to to showcase. it. They were just atrocious condi- someone else to take over man- “Josh did a really good job of impact them in a positive way [is] Beyond this, Day said club tions,” he said. agement of the club so that it organizing everything,” she said. easily the thing I am most proud members will also interview the “Seeing how that affected my can continue even when he has “Honestly, it was really easy for of at Penn State,” Pezzulo said. residents in a project they refer family and the whole dichotomy graduated. me to take on the position be- “Without a doubt.” New boutique brings style to State College By James Langan Kayt Schott , a stylist at Three For the Collegian Little Birds, said many of the clothes are Nordstrom brands. “Rise up this mornin’, smiled Schott, 29, of State College, said with the rising sun, three little this should attract a lot of women, birds, pitch by my doorstep.” as the two closest Nordstroms Three Little Birds Boutique, and Nordstrom Racks are in located at 220 E. Calder Way, Lancaster and Pittsburgh. opened its doors to the public According to Schott, the this past October — bringing boutique also sells products from a new dimension to the State brands such as Malicious Women College retail scene. Candle Co. and Bitchstix lip balm. The boutique is named after As a resident of State College, the song “Three Little Birds” Schott could relate to the fact Courtesy of Conrad Dy-Liacco made famous by Bob Marley that there weren’t many places Dancers Li Jiabo (left) and Venus Villa (right) perform in the Hong Kong Ballet. and more commonly known by for women’s clothing in State the lyrics, “Don’t worry about a College, and said Three Little thing, cause every little thing is Birds appeals to the clothing gonna be alright.” needs of women in the area. The store’s owner, Margaret “The community itself, it feels CPA seeking youth Miller, used to sing the song to like we’ve all been wanting this,” her three children, which led to Schott said. the boutique’s name. “When I moved here, I Three Little Birds aims to asked myself, ‘Where am I provide additional shopping supposed to shop?’ and while for Hong Kong Ballet options to the women of State there are some places, it feels like College, according to Hannah a lot of it is catered to the student By Becky Marcinko “When we are fortunate enough Kong Ballet, according to Vashaw. Grant, the boutique’s manager. population.” The Daily Collegian to book this kind of performance, “We are going to aim to make “We feel there aren’t a lot of Schott said women are always we try to do it because it’s a this a wholly positive experience options for the women who live coming into the shop saying, “We Young dancers who are wonderful opportunity for for everybody,” Vashaw said. in the area,” Grant, 20, of Dills- need more places like this.” looking for a large scale, more building a love of the arts,” “[Children] have the opportu- burg, Pennsylvania, said. “It’s nice to see that because professional opportunity may Ebersole said. nity to share the stage with these Grant said she believes the shop is really for all women,” have the chance to perform with She said an opportunity like absolutely top-notch, world-class the strength of the busi- Schott said. the Hong Kong Ballet. this will give children a profes- dancers in a piece choreographed ness is that it has clothes Jessica Rillo is the region- The Center for the Perform- sional dance experience, and by a true choreographic genius.” for women of all ages, mak- al manager of the business’s ing Arts invites young dancers to most of all an “unmatched” Making it a positive experi- ing the business accessible three locations in State College, audition for a role in the Hong opporunity. ence is important to Maciejczyk, to Penn State students and Mechanicsburg and Hershey. Kong Ballet’s “Alice (in wonder- Amy Vashaw, the audience according to Ebersole. Maciejc- residents of State College alike. “It’s a great community and land)” on Jan. 10. The perfor- and program development zyk has experience working with “I always say my best exam- [State College residents] are still mance will be on April 24 at the director at the Center for the children, so she makes it a point ple is that I shop here, my mom finding us and every week we Eisenhower Auditorium. Performing Arts, said the audition to make them feel comfortable. are getting busier,” Rillo, 26, of “54 young dancers are for 54 local children was part of the “It’s a very rigorous art form, shops here, and my grand- allowed to rehearse and negotiation in bringing the so there needs to be a lot of love,” mother shops here,” Grant Mechanicsburg said. perform alongside the professional production to State College. Ebersole said. said. “We want it to be a place Rillo said she believes the company,” Ebersole said. “It’s the “They’re cute, adorable and Maciejczyk said the choreogra- that moms can come shop with shop’s uniqueness is its main experience of a lifetime for actually significant roles within phy is “witty, fun, and creative,” their daughters.” attraction to shoppers, and said it these young dancers – they will the story of Alice,” Vashaw said. and it will be fun for any child to Grant said one of the brings “style” to the State College remember this forever.” Vashaw said CPA spread the dance in. boutique’s strengths is the area. The auditions will run from 4-9 word about the auditions to However, within this fun, the direct effect of the effort put into “I don’t think there’s anything p.m. on the Sunday before the local dance studios. She said they dancers will be expected to customer service. in town like what we have,” Rillo audition, the Center is offering encourage boys to audition, as pay attention to their work and “We want to put our clients said. “We cater to everyone, a free audition workshop to help there are roles specific to them. timing. first,” Grant said, “in every which is what everyone seems to dancers prepare. Vashaw has seen this Additionally, Ebersole said aspect.” like about us.” “[Rebecca Maciejczyk] gener- reimagined story of “Alice in there is “a lot of protocol put into ously offered to hold a ‘how to’ Wonderland” on video. She place” for working with the youth. audition workshop, and fortu- described the work of the Hong She said the production staff is nately we’re able to do it on the Kong Ballet’s artistic director, experienced in this. Eisenhower stage, which is the Septime Webre, for “ALICE” as “I feel like we’re able to be same place the actual audition innovative and new. leaders in the community and will be,” Ebersole said. She described him as a set a great standard for what it “[The workshop will consist “choreographic genius.” is to involve youth in the arts,” of] coming into the space and According to Vashaw, the Ebersole said. sitting doing and going through ballet also has a more contem- The first two rehearsals will exactly what will be required at the porary look to it. She described run Jan. 11 and 12. There will be audition.” Alice as “punk-rock looking.” six rehearsals on Sundays after Rebecca Maciejczyk, a local “I think it’s going to be fun for children are casted, according to dancer and educator, will be the the audiences to see something Ebersole. rehearsal director for the local more contemporary with ballet,” “The kids will get to have youth in the production. Maciejczyk said. the experience as a profes- Maciejczyk said she will play a Moreover, CeCe Farha of the sional dancer, which is a lifelong supporting role in auditions, and Washington Ballet has been memory,” Ebersole said. then continue to lead rehearsals hired to assist with rehearsals. James Riccardo/Collegian on her own until the company Septime previously worked with To email reporter: [email protected]. The front of Three Little Birds Boutique stands on E. Calder Way on, joins the rehearsals. her before moving to the Hong Follow her on Twitter at @beckymarcinko. Tuesday, Dec. 10.