The Collegian – Oct. 2, 2020

The

@Collegian_GCC @gcc.collegian The Collegian: The GCC Newspaper Friday, October 2, 2020

Collegian The Award-Winning Grove City College Student Newspaper

Vol. 106, No. 5

Cha-cha-cha-changes

Coming home in 1946 Fiona Lacey

Community Editor

CALEB WEST

Seniors Nicole Fandel and Zach LaValla perform at Java Jam Tuesday night. Some Homecoming events remain in light of COVID-19.

‘Stay-at-Homecoming’ new mantra Eve Lee

Contributing Writer The The Grove City College Homecoming Committee adapted this year’s homecoming activities in light of COVID-19 restrictions and risk, and some GCC students share their opinion on Homecoming Week this year. With sports postponed till next semester and restrictions in place limiting many activities, the traditional

homecoming celebration has been altered as well. However, the Homecoming Committee worked hard to maintain tradition and keep the campus safe. Tricia Corey, the Homecoming Committee advisor and Manager of Programs and Events at Grove City College said, “We attempted to maintain our traditional events as much as possible. We implemented COVID contingencies for each event

to keep all participants and spectators safe.” Traditional Homecoming events, such as Java Jam and the Powderpuff game, still took place while taking necessary precautions to remain safe. The Homecoming Committee was also excited to announce several new events that were being implemented this year. Tonight is being dubbed as the Homecoming “Friday Funday.”

Homecoming Committee member and junior Sarah Matthews said, “We hosted a variety of events for independents and Greek groups.” One event on “Friday Funday” is the Greek Games, a competition for the Greek groups held in place of the Homecoming Parade. Regarding this event, Corey said, “I think this is a great opportunity for the Greek groups to participate STAY HOME 5

Two sides, little moderation David Zimmermann News Editor

Anna DiStefano Managing Editor

President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden faced off Tuesday night in the first presidential debate of the 2020 election. It didn’t go as planned. Hosted by Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, the debate consisted of six 15-minute topics and was moderated by Chris Wallace, a news anchor for Fox News. “You know that GIF of a dumpster fire while the dumpster is going by in a parking lot that’s flooded because of a hurricane? That’s what I thought the debate was,” political science professor Dr. Caleb Verbois said. There were moments when all three men — both candidates and the moderator — were talking over each other. It was escalated to the point that Biden asked Trump to “shut up” and called him “the worst president America has ever had.” Trump also attacked Biden, calling his political career into question and accusing his son, Hunter Biden, of colluding with Russia. Meanwhile, Wallace was repeatedly tasked to bring back the discussion from constant interruptions, often asking Trump to stop inter-

CALEB WEST

Students gathered in the Breen Student Union Tuesday night to watch the first presidential debate. rupting Biden and vice versa. Verbois, who is also the pre-law advisor at the college, thought that neither candidate won out over the other. “This was not a debate you can score in any sort of conventional way. By the time we were ten minutes in, it went downhill from there. If more than five percent of voters remember any specific policy claim, I will be surprised,” he said. Many students agreed that the debate was outrageous.

“Neither candidate looked presidential, the policy prescriptions were vague and unclear and neither came away as a clear winner,” senior David Hutchison said. While agreeing with Verbois that the debate was unconventional, sophomore Connor Maguire shared his thoughts. “Trump won the debate based on his ability to give meaningful and truthful responses. His willingness to cut in on Biden was also a sign of his victory, because it is better to have the bully

than the coward as the leader of a nation,” he said. Maguire explained, “Biden was unable to provide compelling answers for tough questions and relied on Wallace to bail him out when he was unsure. On the flip side, Trump was unfairly cut off and asked irrelevant questions from years before to try and destroy his PR.” Junior Emily Burke said, “Trump should have better restrained himself in order DEBATE 5

As Grove City College takes public safety and COVID-19 measures into account, hosting its first ever “Stayat Homecoming,” students, faculty and especially alumni are admittedly disappointed at the lack of a physical Homecoming. But these precautions and cancellations are not the first in Grove City College’s history, as the cancellations of 1944 were not much different. During the occurrence of World War II, most colleges at the time, including Grove City, chose to cancel many events and postpone college rituals for the sake of the War effort. Most athletics were canceled, and even major college conferences. Similar to 2020, the 1944 Homecoming was also canceled due to gas rationing and lack of resources for alumni to travel to their alma mater. But Homecoming on campus continued alone for the students, just like Homecoming 2020. Students enjoyed the annual football game against Westminster College and homecoming dance, all without alumni. When the War finally ended in 1945, Homecoming took place that fall, yet it was a quiet one- most of the soldiers had not yet returned. But in 1946, Grove City College celebrated one of their largest and most energetic Homecomings in their history. “The greatest Homecoming I ever attended was in 1946,” Louise (Sawarts ’44) Clarke said. “It seemed like anyone and everyone who had ever graduated attended.” With family members and friends returning from war, spirits were free and at ease, not excluding those of GCC alumni. “It was hard not having homecoming during the war,” Clarke said. “But [this] made it all better because it was a true celebration, especially after coming out of something so terrible.” With COVID-19 the stress, fear and global unrest remains a heavy burden for students, alumni, and staff to bear, making physical festivities difficult with social distancing and sanitation protocol. But for the alumni of 1945, there was a light at the end of the tunnel. The victory at War brought celebration and lifted spirits to a quiet and lonely campus.

Editorial

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The award-winning Grove City College student newspaper, Oct. 2, 2020

Wisdom beyond the Grove Beware the echo chamber Grace Tarr ’20

Former Editor-in-Chief I have a secret and so do you — we are both liars. Mark Twain wrote an essay observing our human tendency to deceive ourselves and others called “My First Lie and How I Got Out of It.” Lying causes two problems: the moral dilemma of the lie itself, and the secondary lies that are needed to cover up the first. It’s a brutal cycle, one that Twain points out starts very young. “I do not remember my first lie, it is too far back; but I remember my second one very well. I was nine days old at the time...” The thought of a nine-day old baby lying is humorous at first, but Twain was highlighting a central and inconvenient truth with humor: people are born liars and manipulators. Perhaps this observation is all too apparent during the 2020 election cycle. I don’t pretend to be overly original in my worldview, as a good friend of mine often observes, new theology is rarely good theology. I was asked to write an editorial as a past Editor-inChief to offer my reflections on life after Grove City. I suppose it is meant to be a type of “letter from the outside.” So that is why I am writing this, far past when it was due, on Wednesday night. During my time as EIC, it was the bane of my existence to re-

ceive articles after deadline. You either die a hero or live long enough to see yourself become the villain. I’m currently working on a Congressional campaign which means I find myself in the crosshairs of political events. Campaigns are echo chambers — I spent most of the primary talking to people who agree with me. I’ve learned that it is much easier to lie when we are within our ideological community than when we are outside of it. These lies are often not the bold or brash kind. They’re the subtle ones that come with slight exaggeration — a little primping here and there to present just the right image. When we are around people who disagree with us, people who we suspect would call us out for such exaggerations, we measure our words carefully. It’s in the echo chamber that our commitment to truth is most tested. And truth — the Word — is the ultimate aim. We have all observed this phenomenon. It’s the cutting remark made about a person who is not present or the off handed quip that we ourselves might not honestly believe but that we know will be well received by our tribe. I’m learning to weigh my words among people with whom I agree. Twain was right in observing that we are all born liars, but we do not all stay liars. Tarr was Editor-in-Chief spring of 2020

Collegian Staff Editor-in-Chief Paige Fay

Copy Chief Britney Lukasiewicz

Managing Editor Anna DiStefano

Business Manager Kathryn Miller

Section Editors News David Zimmermann

Copy Editors Jessica Hardman Ashley Ostrowski Claire Josey Lauren Ness Kylie Jasper Joanna Thorpe Elizabeth Schinkel

Community Fiona Lacey Perspectives Clark Mummau

Photo Chief Wes Kinney

Staff Writers Scott Amon Noel Elvin Connor Schlosser Gabrielle Capaldo Jules Wooldridge

Design Chief Caleb West

Staff Adviser Nick Hildebrand

Sports Emily Rupczewski

The Collegian is the student newspaper of Grove City College, located in Grove City, Pa. Opinions appearing on these pages, unless expressly stated otherwise, represent the views of individual writers. They are not the collective views of The Collegian, its staff or Grove City College.

Green Eyeshade Award the

This week’s Green Eyeshade Award goes to Chris Murphy for dedicated design, eagerness to contribute, and encouraging presence. The Green Eyeshade Award honors student contributors that demonstrate consistency and excellence in their work.

Murphy

LAW SCHOOL TOOL BOX

Pay attention to the details James Sutherland ’19 Former Editor-in-Chief

If you ever want to scare a lawyer back to their closet for a new pair of pants, just say one word: Bluebook. One word. That’s all it takes to send any lawyer into a nervous sweat. One simple word. Why, you ask? This dreaded Bluebook is the citation and style guide for the legal profession, governing every aspect of writing and research. The book is an intricate labyrinth of intersecting rules and tables. I fail to call it Byzantine only to avoid disrespecting the second Rome’s relative clarity. Every law student spends hours toiling through the book, and the labor doesn’t end after you get that coveted J.D. Just ask any law firm associate or judge’s clerk. The Bluebook isn’t so much a rite of passage as an occupational hazard. As a first-year law student, I’m currently undergoing a

baptism of fire with the Bluebook. But what I’ve learned from this sacramental introduction is just how important the Bluebook is, because details matter. Details matter. It’s not just the devil in the details. Most often, excellence is there too. You want to be successful at something? Master the details. If you want to be a great three-point shooter like Stephen Curry, then you had better learn footwork and arm angles. This is true for every line of work. Accountants, engineers and doctors all need a keen eye for detail, a close and discerning approach to the minutiae of their work. Do the little things well and you’ll do the big things excellently. This, more than anything else, is what Grove City taught me. Thinking back on my time ‘mid the pines after almost a year of being away, the memories and lessons which really cling to my mind are when I got schooled by the details. Whether it was checking the AP Style Guide to copy edit The Collegian in the wee

hours of the morning or getting a tongue-lashing from Dr. Stanton for missing a key data point in research, Grove City taught me to pay attention. It taught me with the style guides, from the APSA in Political Science to the Chicago system in History to the MLA in English. It taught me with the writing projects, learning how to carefully research and then sculpt that research into clear and concise prose. It taught me with the assignments and discussions, tutoring me in how to read, analyze and critique arguments. Those lessons were the hardest to learn and the best to remember. So, my advice this Homecoming, to the senior with one foot out the door and the freshman still trying to settle in, is to pay attention to the details. Whatever you’re going to do after your four years, the details will be the key. Details matter. James was Editor-in-Chief from 2018-2019

This Week in Collegian History

Patriotism vs. Politics October 1904 In the wake of this week’s first Presidential debate, we have decided to take a look back to the College in 1904. For some brief context before we dive in, this year saw the Russo-Japanese war (tensions which later contributed in conflicting ways to the World Wars), an increase in Teddy Roosevelt’s Monroe Doctrine policies, and the introduction of two Ford automobiles, the first Rolls-Royce and the New York subway system. The article “Patriotism vs. Politics,” found in 1904’s October issue of the Collegian, very clearly states that the greatest danger threatening the nation lies in widespread corruption found in the political arena. Collegian student writer SJ Wright stresses that the political elite had become much too wealthy, able with their money to exert undue influence upon nominations and elections. Furthermore, “many illegal votes are smuggled into the ballot box… and voters dependent on influential men… are forced to vote according the will of their masters rather than their own choice.” In short, rich, influential men prey upon the weak. To be sure, he writes, no large number of men would “sell their votes,” but they allow

others to do their thinking for them, and by consequence “not one fourth of the voters have an intelligent conception of the thing for which they are voting. The ultimate consequence of this unfair system is that unscrupulous men protected by party politics and the money of their supporters take public positions, leaving voters deceived, mistrustful of their government, and no longer faithful in the declaration of Equal rights for all.” “Let more patriotism and less creed be expounded from our pulpits; more patriotism and less party at the polls; more patriotism and regard for authority in our homes and schools.” Furthermore, he writes, many who ought to be selfless public servants are “grafters,” here referring to the immoral (but in some ways ‘lawful’) use of a politician’s authority for personal gain. An example is when politicians intentionally misdirect funds, intended for public improvement, towards the benefit of private interest. These men are the type who will “do anything if they won’t be caught.” Many more still who may be adverse to receiving ‘dirty money’ are not so adverse to using political insight and power to support their own investments. The

ordinary man may not take a purse from a pocket, but if a crooked associate left a blank check on his desk, well… “do you think that he would make inquiries as to how it came there?” According to Wright, the solution lies in citizen’s response. “Any honest man,” says Wright, “who desires to see cleaner politics should enter politics and strive to make them cleaner.” Americans cannot stand by as virtues not safely ignored are pushed aside. They should insist upon adherence to standards of justice, honesty, and patriotism; these requirements are fundamental. Though women were not allowed to vote until 1920, and indeed, certain minority groups were not allowed until later, Wright’s 1904 assertion that every US citizen ought to “exercise his right of suffrage intelligently” applies to all of us today. If this were the case, “our ‘good ship union’ would proudly sail on a calm sea or anchor serenely in a harbor of perpetual national prosperity.” As the 2020 election cycle ramps up, we all must vote not lightly, nor with blind politics, but with the conscience and with the mind.

Jules Wooldridge

Staff Writer

Community The Collegian, Oct. 2, 2020

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Honoring alumni achievers Fiona Lacey

Community Editor Due to this year’s “Stay at Homecoming,” the Jack Kennedy Memorial Alumni Achievement Award winners were not able to return to their alma mater to receive their award. The Collegian would like to honor them in the best way possible. This year’s Alumni Achievement awards go to Robert D. King, ’69, Lisa (Adams ’78) Gordon and Daniel H. Peiffer ’81. King made his mark in General Electric as a hybrid-electric transportation researcher before retiring in 2014. King Around the office he was known as ‘Bob’ but he was termed the “father of electric vehicle research and development” in his field. He transferred to the Hybrid Vehicle Program where he researched and created technology patents that are used by over 50 percent of hybrid-electric vehicles. King gives a lot of credit to his alma mater. “My electric engineering major [at Grove City College] provided the fundamental science, mathematics, engineering concepts and analysis techniques,” King said. It was in fact his senior paper, “Electric Cars in your Future,” that spurred him on to research hybrid-electric vehicle technology. To students looking to be successful in King’s field, his message is simple: “Keep an open mind and don’t give up.” You may have heard of, or even seen, the next recipient before. Lisa (Adams ’78) Gordon, who graduated with degrees in Education and Communication Studies, is the producer and anchorwoman of “Erie News Now” at WICU/WSEE TV, NBC and CBS affiliates in Erie, Pa.

Gordon, who appears on TV every weekend at 6 and 11 p.m., has regularly interviewed, reported and produced quality web and live news for over 40 years. Gordon looks back fondly on Gordon her time at Grove City. “All the courses in my major were foundational for the work that I do,” Gordon said. It was the core curriculum that sparked her intellectual curiosity that still influences her work. “My friends and family say that I interview everyone, and I never stop asking questions,” Gordon tells her readers on the Erie News Now website. Gordon has been recognized by the Pennsylvania Associated Press Broadcasters Associations and the Pennsylvania Association of Broadcasters. Gordon lives with her husband in Erie, Pa., writing during the week, going live on the weekends. David H. Peiffer ’81, graduated with degrees in History and Political Science with hopes to work in international relations and politics. He then attended the University of Michigan where he earned his M.A. in Near Eastern Studies. Peiffer’s M i d d l e Eastern i n t e r est would Peiffer lead him to found NITCOM, the official major supplier of air conditioning components for the U.S. Army’s STORM III project in Israel. Over the years, Peiffer’s research on Israel has been published through his own book, ‘Beyond the Green Line,’ Former Israeli Ambassador Itamar Rabinovitch’s book ‘Israel in the Middle East’; and by Center for Strategic and International Stud-

Rathburn distinguished

David Zimmermann News Editor

For his 28 years of service to the college as a trustee, David Rathburn ’79 receives the Alumni Association’s 2020 Distinguished Service Award this Homecoming. After serving the last 17 years as Chair of the Board of Trustees, Rathburn stepped down from his role on June 30. In May, before the transition, he was named the first Chair Emeritus by the board. “I believe that great organizations have successful leadership transitions,” Rathburn said. “I have been fighting cancer for the last four years. I believed it was time for me to leave the role while I could help ensure the next chair had as much support from me as they wanted.” During his college years, Rathburn graduated with degrees in accounting, business administration and political science. As a student, he was involved in choir, the American Management Association, the Men’s Governing Board and the Nu Lamdba Phi fraternity. He also held the position of Vice President of Academic Affairs in the Student Government Association. Before graduating over 40 years ago, Rathburn wrote articles for the Sports Information Department at the college, those of which were published in the local Butler Eagle and New Castle News newspapers. He said, “In those days, you had to type the story ies’ Dr. Rachel Bronson’s Arab-Israeli research. To Peiffer, his experience at Grove City College was exceptional. “[They] were some of the best four years of my life,” Peiffer said. “I was able to

In memorium

GCC ARCHIVES

A brief history of Memorial Hall Laura Hamilton Contributing Writer

When you think of the oldest dorm building on campus, which comes to mind? The answer may surprise you: Memorial Hall. In fact, Memorial was the first building on upper campus, dedi-

cated to Joseph Newton Pew, teacher and lifetime friend of the college’s founder, Isaac C. Ketler. In Lee Edwards’ book “Freedom’s College,” Ketler’s son Weir spoke of Pew as “a man of marked ability with a striking and forceful personality.” Born in 1848 to a God-

fearing, abolitionist farming family in Mercer, Pa., Pew was a dynamic and ambitious businessman, politician and scholar. He attended Edinboro Normal School before developing a productive oil transportation pipeline in Western Pa. that eventually became Sun Oil Company.

GCC

and then get it to a box down on Main Street by a certain time. Then someone would pick it up and take it to the newspaper — not quite carrier pigeon but close.” In addition, he was a sports radio broadcaster for the Wolverines’ football and basketball games. “I also had a morning radio show on WSAJ. You had to get there 15 minutes early to warm up the transmitter before you could go on the air,” Rathburn said. Thirteen years after graduating, Rathburn started his 28-year tenure as a trustee, later becoming Chair in 2003. In 2010, he and his family gifted $3 million to support the construction of Rathburn Hall, named in his family’s honor a year later. Recognizing the lack of moral, responsible leaders in both small and large organizations, Rathburn belives there is a real need for

more ethical students in our world. “I have preached for all of my time in a leadership role at the college that people should strive to make a difference. I believe that the college teaches young students how to do that. And they should strive to find their calling and engage to make things better, wherever they are,” he said. Proud to have attended and worked for the college, Rathburn credited his life accomplishments to his time at Grove City College. “I made so many life-long friends here and got to learn from some of the best educators and role models anyone could ask for in life,” he said. “I am grateful that God brought me to the college, and I have worked hard to repay as much of that blessing as I possibly could over the many years I have had to be involved.”

find answers to the epistemological conundrums which so confronted me at that time in my life.” His advice to those wishing to work abroad? “Never be afraid to blaze new trails and never follow

the crowd,” Peiffer said. Though the college cannot honor their Alumni Achievement Award recipients in person, it maintains a great deal of pride for this year’s winners.

When Grove City College (then Pine Grove Normal Academy) was founded in 1876, it occupied lower campus. It was not until 1912 that the school expanded to upper campus, according to college archivist Hilary Walczak. “It was Isaac Ketler’s dream to put campus up onto upper campus above Wolf Creek, to move upwards. So, in 1912, they purchased the land where Memorial is now,” Walczak said. “All of upper campus was purchased in small sections from different families in the community.” When Ketler requested Pew’s support for his vision of what would become Grove City College, Pew became president of the first Board of Trustees in 1895, according to “‘Mid the Pines,” David M. Dayton’s history of the college. “‘Mid the Pines” also states that Pew donated $25,000 toward the new men’s residence hall on upper campus. Pew died before construction began. So, his family decided to honor both his legacy and Ketler’s wishes by erecting “this dorm that

was desperately needed in memorial of him,” according to Walczak, which is how Memorial Hall got its name. Dedicated in 1914, Memorial eased the strain on the men’s housing system. “Before, there was no men’s dorm—there was only a female dorm on lower campus: Colonial Hall,” explained Walczak. “So, men were living in boardinghouses throughout the community.” The dorm became barracks during WWI and WWII. The college had two military training programs, and the soldiers stayed in Memorial. Walczak states that it was renovated in 1975 and completely rebuilt in 1996, in line with the original building’s exact footprint and design. Today, the L-shaped freshman dorm boasts spacious hallways and lounges, a pleasing view of Memorial Lawn and the best neighbors on campus—President and Mrs. McNulty. Although it is the farthest dorm from most academic buildings—leading to long, chilly winter walks— Memorial’s residents appreciate their hall.

The Collegian,

Oct. 2, 2020

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Here comes the court Name: Olivia Alexander Major: Elementary & Special Education Hometown: Evans City, PA Best College Memory: Being on Orientation Board my sophomore year with a bunch of my closest friends! When I come back for homecoming in 10 years, I will be: hopefully teaching in a really cool urban school and traveling during my summers off. Most importantly, I hope to be surrounded by my sweet family and pursing wholeheartedly whatever Jesus has placed in front of me.

Name: Hope Fiely Major: Mechanical Engineering Hometown: Meadville, PA Best College Memory: Freshman year, the swim team girls performed Under the Sea at All College Sing and immediately after performing, some of us went to Pittsburgh and got up at 4:30am to run the Pittsburgh Marathon Relay. We managed to make it back in time for the allsports banquet. When I come back for homecoming in 10 years, I will be: working as a mechanical engineer striving to make the world a better place.

Name: Jonathan McCaslin Major: Business Management Hometown: Beaver Falls, PA Best College Memory: Playing mini golf throughout Memorial my Freshman year with Dan Shults, Drew Wiley and Dave Vaccaro with a bunch of our friends watching. When I come back for homecoming in 10 years, I will be: I don’t know the specifics, but I do know that I will be incredibly thankful to be back and blessed by the things that I have learned here and the memories I made.

Name: Sarah Horn Major: English and Communication Secondary Education Hometown: Buffalo, Minnesota Best College Memory: When my roommate and I won the Christmas door decorating contest freshman year. When I come back for homecoming in 10 years, I will be: Slaying the game with a masters and PhD in tow.

Name: Dana Ross Major: Economics Hometown: Falls Church, Va. Best College Memory: singing with Demi Lovato at coffee house When I come back for homecoming in 10 years, I will be: able to rap the entire ‘Determinate’ rap from ‘Lemonade Mouth’

Name: Patrick Finley Major: History and Social Studies Secondary Education Hometown: Lebanon, Pennsylvania Best College Memory: Mid-day snugglies with the boys on the nap sack. When I come back for homecoming in 10 years, I will be: 31

Name: Stu Rozendal Major: English Hometown: Grand Rapids, MI Best College Memory: When Dana Ross slept through our world history final and still got a better grade on it than I did. When I come back for homecoming in 10 years, I will be: still catching up on sleep

Name: Rebecca Cloyd Major: Business Management Hometown: Chicago, Illinois Best College Memory: When my grandpa came in and taught my class for the day. When I come back for homecoming in 10 years, I will be: sipping on a Dunkin iced coffee while walking around campus reminiscing on all the good mems. But honestly still might be here in 10 years… we will see how this year goes.

Name: Joshua Tricarico Major: Marketing Hometown: Willow Grove, Pa Best College Memory: When there was a mix up at the Police Station and Dana and I were the prime suspects in a robbery and were “wanted for questioning” by the GCPD. When I come back for homecoming in 10 years, I will be: Wearing a rain jacket! Hopefully not a mask though.

Name: Jesse Belitz Major: Middle Level Math/History Education, BARS Minor Hometown: Independence, OH Best College Memory: Campus Safety’s email explaining the difference between Kitty Purry and the common skunk. When I come back for homecoming in 10 years, I will be: A middle school teacher or principal in the Cleveland or Pittsburgh area and hoping to hang out with Dr. Nichols while visiting campus.

The Collegian, Oct. 2, 2020

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Alumni faculty, staff reflect on time at Grove City College David Zimmermann News Editor

Each year, Homecoming is the biggest event of the fall where alumni can return to the college and reminisce with friends as they walk down memory lane together. However, due to COVID restrictions, alumni events will be completely virtual this Homecoming weekend. Alumni staff members and professors are reflecting on homecomings from their own time at Grove City College. Director of Career Services Mandy Sposato ’00, who graduated with a psychology degree, said that it is an honor to work at her alma mater. Though she never thought she would stay at the college 20 years later, she is glad Sposato she did. “Grove City College is a really special place, and I have truly felt called to stay here and serve this institution over the years,” Sposato said. “The faculty, staff and students really make it what it is, and I’ve so treasured the close-knit and warm community this college has provided me.” Compared to the rest of her former peers who have not returned since they graduated, she said Homecoming is different for her all these years later. “Because I work here every day, it’s just a very different experience. But it is special to see so many alumni coming back to a place that made a big impact in their lives. I’m looking forward to seeing some friends of mine at my 20th reunion next fall when

STAY HOME

continued from 1 in, since they will not be building floats for the parade.” Instead of a homecoming dance, a movie night on the Quad is planned for tonight starting at 7:30 p.m. President of the Homecoming Committee and senior Victoria Sims described the movie night as “spaced out with food trucks and great prizes, such as an apple watch, AirPods and a TV. The movie will play on a large projector. Coronation crowning occurs during intermission, and fireworks will conclude the night” as a deviation from the usual homecoming celebration. Instead of in-person reunions, parts of homecoming events will be livestreamed through Facebook and Instagram. The commencement ceremony for the Class of 2020 was scheduled to occur during homecoming but was eventually cancelled. According to the committee members, planning homecoming amid a global pandemic was no simple

the event is back in person,” she said. Timothy Sweet ’85, chair and associate professor of entrepreneurship, became a full-time professor in 2010. Before then, he went to Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and Pittsburgh TheoSweet logical Seminary, and then entered the business world in 2000, where he gained his current entrepreneurship knowledge. Sweet credited his decision to teach at the college to his friend and mentor, Dr. Richard Morledge ’54, who was Dean of the Chapel from 1984 to 1999. “When I was a senior, it was Morledge who said to me, ‘Tim, I see you coming back to teach here at Grove City someday.’ Neither of us knew how or in what context that would happen, but it proved to be true,” Sweet said. Sweet remembered the times he spent at Homecoming as a student. He said, “Since I was in the marching band, I always had activities involving the band and the football game. One of my favorite things to do was to walk around the stadium seeing old friends who had recently graduated, and to catch up on their lives.” Football coach Andrew DiDonato ’10, who is also an assistant professor of exercise science, agreed that the football game was one of DiDonato

task. Matthews commented, “A challenge was to have events that were creative and not a repeat of previous campus activities like OB events and Fall Fest.” The student body mostly agreed and supported the Homecoming Committee in their event choices. Junior Lauren Moneymaker said, “I’ve definitely enjoyed the events. Honestly, for Java Jam, the attendance has skyrocketed. There were so many people at the event compared to last year. Other than it being a little cold and a little rainy, I’m enjoying it.” Sophomore Simon Steward had a different Java Jam experience. “I went to Java Jam for a little while, but the weather kind of killed it. I’m not really sure what it was like in the past, but it seems like it suffered because of big ’rona.” Despite missing the annual Homecoming Parade, junior Sydney Aldrich admired the Homecoming Committee’s effort. “I’m super appreciative for what they’re all doing. They’re trying to get the campus involved. I think it’s

his favorite memories as a student. “That was always a big game for us, and most of my memories come from playing in front of the Homecoming crowd,” he said. DiDonato said it was special for him to see familiar faces each year and to experience the event with his family. “I believe there is no better small college Homecoming experience than what takes place at Grove City College,” he said. “It was special to see my daughter in the parade last year with the preschool class here on campus.” Dr. Adam Loretto ’05, assistant professor of English, always went to the Homecoming parade and football game as a student. Now as a professor, he has Loretto shared those experiences with his wife and daughters, excluding this year. “I’ve always looked forward to the possibility of running into an old friend or student and seeing the wider community of the college mix,” Loretto said. Loretto will miss catching up with former hallmates and students in person. “Grove City is home,” he said, “so it’s a fun chance to share my home with people who care about this place. That is something I’ll definitely miss this year.” While many are disappointed about the virtual format surrounding Homecoming this year, Sposato, Sweet, DiDonato and Loretto can speak for all alumni when saying they cannot be more excited for the event next fall. great we have Friday off, and we can fill that day up,” she said. “It’s interesting to see the different types of activities.” Regarding the Friday movie night, Aldrich said, “I think the stuff on Friday night is going to be fun. I feel like it’s the culmination of the week. I love that there’s so much excitement around it.” Freshman Asher Silvey said, “I went to the Powderpuff Games which was so much fun and really enjoyable. I loved the energy, and I was so glad and thankful we were able to have a somewhat normal game night experience.” Regarding the Homecoming dance, Silvey said, “I’m so sad they’re not hosting the homecoming dance. I was really looking forward to it, and I think not having it is unnecessary. Swing and ballroom are just fine.” For the most part, many student reactions to homecoming were positive and grateful to the Homecoming Committee for their hard work to make homecoming happen this year.

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7 Questions with…

President Paul J. McNulty ’80 What do you listen to on your car rides? Car rides have changed a lot for me since moving to the campus from the Washington, DC area six years ago. Back then I used to spend what seemed like an eternity in my car, and now I walk a short distance to work. But when I do have car rides, I listen to either Spotify ‘70s classic soft rock (e.g., Eagles, Doobie Brothers, Fleetwood Mac), Sirius radio station “The Bridge,” Pirates baseball (I know, torture) or a book on tape.

What are you currently reading? “Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom” by David Blight

What’s something you’ve been pondering lately? A leader’s language. Great leaders such as Douglass, Churchill, Lincoln, Reagan and King used language with clear purpose and remarkable skill. A leader’s language can and should be formulated to strengthen a listening community. Leaders are uniquely situated for this opportunity. For example, Winston Churchill is perhaps best remembered for his extraordinary ability to summon the British people to courage in the face of the Nazi onslaught in WWII. He said, “I was not the lion, but it fell to me to give the lion’s roar.” The right words, consistently expressed, can lift a culture.

Favorite restaurant right now? Brenda and I love to eat out and we try lots of restaurants. We especially like Pittsburgh restaurants Casbah, Café Zinho, Eleven and Off the Hook. In Maine, where we spend lots of time, it’s the Little Village Bistro in Wiscasset. And the best restaurant we’ve visited in DC within the past couple of years is The Dabney, but our go-to favorite in Alexandria is Taverna Cretekou where I always order the branzino (Mediterranean fish).

Name the one movie that makes you tear up. Well, it’s not exactly a movie, but “The Band of Brothers” television series brings tears to my eyes. At the end of each episode, the WWII veterans depicted in the series are interviewed. These old gentlemen remind me of my dad who was also a WWII vet and a Purple Heart recipient from the Battle of the Bulge. I was very close to my father. He passed away in 2003, and I miss him greatly.

What are you looking forward to today? More good news about the absence of COVID on campus. I also have a couple meetings with students on my schedule, and those opportunities are the best part of my job.

What are you most thankful for? Grace, of course! I’m continuously thankful for the fact that God opened my eyes and ears to the Good News that Christ paid my debts on the cross. This reality transforms everything for me – every hardship, every opportunity, and every mundane moment – into another step on a meaningful homeward journey. I’m also enormously thankful for Brenda who is a fantastic traveling companion.

DEBATE

continued from 1 to allow Biden to incoherently fumble more. That said, Biden did effectively expose himself in many lies.” She also agreed with Verbois’ “dumpster fire” comment. “It’s worth noting too, that what Trump did to Biden, Biden did to Paul Ryan in 2012 at the VP debate,” Verbois said. “Somewhere in Wisconsin, I suspect Ryan was watching this debate and thinking ‘what goes around comes around Joe.’” Dr. Michael Coulter, political science chair and professor, expects the next month

of debates to have a smaller audience. He also thinks that the debates won’t affect the election outcome this year. “I can’t imagine that this year’s debates will change the dynamic in this race or shift any committed voters or convince too many of the small number of undecided voters. The stability of the presidential polls over the past few months indicate that the vast majority has already made its choice,” Coulter said. Verbois added, “After last night, I suspect, if anything, the debates might reduce turnout. We already know it led to an overnight spike in Google searches: ‘move to Canada.’”

Through the lens, Oct 2, 2020

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Photos by Wes Kinney and Matthew Schoonover

Through the lens, Oct 2, 2020

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Matthew Schoonover

Matthew Schoonover

Perspectives The Collegian,

Page 8

Oct. 2, 2020

Barrett to the bench

How Trump’s nominee may change the Court Shelbi Henkle

Contributing Writer With the passing of the Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, the Trump Administration moves forward with a nomination for Ginsberg’s replacement. Many, especially those leaning left on the political spectrum, view President Trump’s nomination of Amy Coney Barrett as a threat to ideals such as Roe v. Wade and many of the socio-political issues Ginsberg so strongly vouched for. According to a poll conducted by the Washington Post (out of a total of 1,008 adults) a majority of both Democrats and Independents believe the nomination should be left to the “winner of the election.” Trump still has every right to choose a nominee since he is the current president. The advent of election year does not render him unable to nominate a new judge. This situation is similar to Barack Obama’s 2016 nomination of Merrick Garland when Justice Scalia passed suddenly, which was 11 months before the election. In both instances, opposing parties cited their issues with the nominations as being too close to the election. According the Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, regarding the 2016 nomination, he said, “The American people should have a voice in the selection of their next Supreme Court Justice. Therefore, this vacancy should not be filled until we have a new president.” This places the Republican Party in a tough position, since they so vehemently opposed the Democratic nomination of Garland in 2016, but support McConnell’s assurance that “President Trump’s nominee will receive a vote on the floor of the United States Senate.” This paints the party as

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hypocritical, and with the 2020 election less than 2 months away, it is a crucial time. This nomination could either save or sink Trump’s path to re-election. One reason in particular as to why people oppose this move to confirm the next Supreme Court Justice could be due to who Trump has picked in the past. With the very public trial between Brett Kavanaugh and Dr. Christine Ford regarding sexual assault, Kavanaugh was not viewed in a very positive light. The media demonized Trump’s pick despite both the denial of the allegations and the eventual confirmation of Kavanaugh to the Supreme Court. Barrett closely upholds

conservative values that I admire such as her strong stance against abortion and her desire to closely follow the writ of the Constitution. She will be the youngest justice if confirmed at the age of 48. She is highly accredited with a degree from Notre Dame Law School and working under the late Justice Scalia as a clerk. She is currently a judge on the U.S. Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals. “A judge must apply the law as written. Judges are not policy makers,” she said at her nomination. Barrett was quickly vilified and critiqued by many left leaning voters, including Vice Presidential nominee Kamala Harris.

“Trump’s hand-picked successor to Justice Ginsburg’s seat makes it clear: they intend to destroy the Affordable Care Act and overturn Roe,” Harris said on Twitter about Barrett’s nomination. This statement is simply untrue. Both the Affordable Care Act and Roe vs. Wade are nearly impossible to overturn, especially with the power of only one judge. Personally, Barrett is a good pick for a justice since she upholds strong conservative values and appears capable of the task set before her. Understandably, people want the Supreme Court nominee to reflect their values and some are strongly pushing for someone who can replace the human rights powerhouse Ginsberg.

Therefore, they want someone that will represent them well, and many Democrats fear that whoever Trump nominates will disregard issues such as Medicare, Planned Parenthood and overall major socio-political concerns, which at the moment seems the case. Yet party affiliation is not the sole determiner of how one values certain issues. You do not need to be a Democrat to care about human life or show compassion, that is a human quality present on either side of the party line. Only time will tell if Amy Barrett will come to hold the title of Supreme Court Justice and how her beliefs will be reflected by the legislation she passes.

“Long after the pandemic has gone, the peace we make today will endure.” Palestinian leaders, such as assistant minister of multilateral affairs Ammar Hijazi, were quick to speak against the agreement, calling it “a sad day” and saying that no peace will ever be possible unless Israel gives full rights to Palestinians and ends their “brutal… occupation.” He also said that the deal “crowns Israel as the policeman for the region.” While this peace may seem sudden and untenable, these nations have had peaceful relations for several years, and they all may be concerned with Iran’s increasing influence in the Middle East, meaning this is more a beneficial political move than something indicative in a change in broader ArabIsraeli relations. During the White House meeting, rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip, controlled by Hamas, into

southern Israel, wounding two people. Israel launched airstrikes the next morning. Hamas and Fatah also announced that they would be working together to combat what they view as Israeli occupation. Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar all also said that this agreement is not the solution for peace and that they would not be making similar diplomatic moves. Clearly, there will still not be peace in the Middle East for many years yet. Regardless of the longterm outcome of this agreement, President Donald Trump was still nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts in bringing peace to the Middle East, and the nomination was seconded by citing his efforts to keep peace between Kosovo and Serbia. Trump was nominated by Norwegian parliamentarian Christian Tybring-Gjedde, who belongs to the Progress Party, which is a right-wing populist party, but Tybring-

Gjedde said that he is not a big Trump supporter. He earlier nominated Trump for his work between North and South Korea. “Can you name a person who has done more for peace than President Trump?” Tybring-Gjedde asked Atlantic writer Graeme Wood, and he noted that it was a serious question. “Any person or organization can be nominated by anyone eligible to nominate,” committee guidelines state, and a nomination is not an honor by itself, the committee said. While Trump certainly has made strong steps towards peace in the Middle East, I do not think he is deserving of a Nobel Peace Prize. Three Nobel Peace Prizes have already been given out for peace talks in the Middle East, and clearly, none have worked, and I don’t think that this agreement will prove effective either. Furthermore, I don’t think that Trump’s general behav-

ior deserves the honor that is a Nobel Prize. He often, even if in jest, belittles his opponents and firmly shuts down those who unfairly misrepresent him. If no candidate seems to have made significant progress towards peace, or if peace in the Middle East doesn’t appear to be forming because of Trump’s efforts, the Nobel Prize Committee could revive the tradition of declining to give an award, Wood suggests. I think this could be a viable option because it would show how seriously the committee actually takes meaningful efforts towards real and lasting peace rather than giving out awards that recognize efforts that either have a miniscule impact or no real impact at all. Trump’s efforts to bring peace between Israel, Bahrain and the UAE are certainly commendable, but due to their limited nature and dubious impact, I don’t think he is deserving of the pres-

Peace and Prize? Neither is guaranteed Clark Mummau Perspectives Editor

On Sept. 15, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Israel signed an agreement that normalized relations between the counties, but Iran and Turkey both spoke out against the agreements. President Trump helped negotiate these agreements, and he was subsequently nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize. However, I am doubtful that either of these events will hold for long. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed hope that the agreements would lead other Arab states to interact peacefully with Israel and eventually end the Arab-Israeli conflict, but several nations were quick to oppose these peace efforts. “This day is a pivot of history, it heralds a new dawn of peace,” Netanyahu said.

The Collegian,

Oct. 2, 2020

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Can’t bet on the Met Josef Mueller

Contributing Writer

SKYNEWS

It’s no debate: do your part Chris Murphy

Contributing Writer Among the threats of a world war, a global pandemic, massive fires razing two continents, hurricanes and a handful of other disasters that have marked the year of our Lord 2020, Americans have especially been fearing one spectacular force of nature: the presidential election. Despite party affiliation or outcome, the election season has been notorious—to say the least—for its tendency to divide the nation and stir fears of doomsday scenarios. This precedent was set in large part due to the 2016 election, where parties started to attack each other ruthlessly and run smear campaigns throughout the election cycle. Unfortunately, it seems that similar amounts of vitri-

ol are carrying over into this cycle, most visibly seen in the first debate. Across campus, voters and spectators watched in horror as three men tore each other to shreds with ad hominem, classlessness and spite. Taking a quick glance at headlines and articles about the debate, one thing that stands out is that almost everyone is upset with how things went. Liberal-leaning publications like CNN have been very vocal with their anger towards the president’s aggressive demeanor, while conservative-leaning organizations like Fox News have been analyzing the accuracy of Joe Biden’s allegations. The hour-and-a-half spectacle was a stark reminder that America has sought after the sensational and the candidates are a result of that yearning: Donald Trump’s insistence on voicing his opinion out of order and Joe Biden’s faulty claims

and strawman arguments are symptoms of the culture. These men, like them or not, are the representatives that we the people have elected and empowered. While many current GCC students, I included, did not have the ability to vote in the 2016 election, the culture that we find ourselves in has shaped how we perceive and participate in politics. It’s unsettling that so many of us find ourselves dissatisfied with the debate, as if any of us felt wholly convinced that either candidate would adequately represent the Christian worldview that is at the least familiar. Many people choose to vote according to policies and ideas that are representative of their values, such as pro-life advocacy for Christians. I’m certain that the constant reminders to vote from every source of media would not be as jarring if we truly felt comfortable supporting a

candidate. Meanwhile, third-party candidates seem to be a waste of a vote to many, pigeonholing voters to one of the two central candidates. So… what can we do? What can the conscientious objectors and the reluctant voters do to ensure a sounder election for themselves? Get involved. Do your part. Pay attention to your local elections. Run for office yourself; put that poli-sci degree to good use. Start advocating for organizations and bills that are consistent with your morals. We, as Americans, have the capacity to shape our culture and support what we believe in, so take advantage of the opportunity to make a difference. It may not be an immediate solution or a source of comfort in these current times but be the change you want to see for the future. For now, we can watch as

Renewing renewable energy

CNN TRAVEL

Sam Branthoover Contributing Writer

Here’s a possible upside to COVID-19: it’s led to a reduction in the use of fossil fuels, and by extension a reduction in pollution. Is this able to be continued, even after the pandemic subsides? I believe that this is unlikely; moreover, we should also be understanding as to why the lost pollution needs to return. To preface, it’s worth explaining why it is we’ve seen less use of fossil fuels. It’s not because firms and individuals unanimously decided to care for the environment; it’s because COVID-19 has reduced demand for… everything. Individuals no longer drive cars as often, and thus need less gas. The stores we drive to don’t receive as many visitors, which leads to less purchases, which leads to less quantities of goods supplied, which leads to less factory output. And of course, many are operating on a lower budget, which directly affects demand as well. The important takeaway from this: less pollution is

a result of less demand for products that create pollution. Though one may hope this will lead to a cleaner future, the likelihood is that if demand returns to levels similar to before the pandemic, pollution is more likely to increase as a result of firms needing to cut costs to stay afloat, the costs being more expensive renewable energy and pollution reducers such as scrubbers, which are air filters at factories. CNN and the World Bank both cite a popular recent study which indicates that some cities, such as New Delhi, have experienced up to 60 percent less pollution as a result of the pandemic. Many, including the former listed sources, posit that this may incentivize poorer nations to continue such practices, but I counter that there is no solid economic backing for this. You can’t restrict a firm’s profits and then expect them to make more costly investments in its financially devolved status. There is a rate at which firms were already making the change to greener methods, but again, it’s far more reasonable to assume that COVID-19 stunted that process than encourage it.

Yes, pollution is bad. Many bad things exist in the world, and it isn’t cost efficient to neutralize them all. In this sense, there is actually an optimal level of pollution; that is, a certain amount of pollution in the world is preferable to none. This is especially true when one considers why pollution is created: it is the result of production, notably in poorer countries. These countries absolutely need economic growth, which cannot be obtained without cheaper methods of production, which typically include agents of pollution and nonrenewable resources. Every modern country has had a stage of economic development that included grim working conditions and questionable environments—even the United States experienced this. Curtailing this step towards nation-building has never successfully occurred before, and it’s unreasonable to assume it could with no empirical evidence. Somehow, a nation would have to instantaneously acquire tremendous amounts of capital, a labor force that could use said capital and a culture with more preference for saving and investing. Even if those could be

gifted from an outside actor, it’s again unreasonable to assume said nation would follow the correct recipe. It’s something entrepreneurs have to pioneer for themselves and for their own market. It’s also important to note that while we in the United States prefer cleaner air, those impoverished abroad do not for the sake of their own livelihood. The cheap aforementioned production that creates pollution in poorer nations are what the labor markets are reliant on. Without these jobs, the workers are left to even worse alternatives like prostitution and backbreaking agricultural work. In many cases, salary reductions in poorer nations lead to increased child labor as well. So, if we desire better air quality, we should simply… do nothing. We should purchase goods based on what benefits us the most, and by doing so, eventually these air-polluting countries will develop to the point where pollution will become unnecessary to their own respective economies. Any other course of action threatens even more widespread poverty, and even

The Metropolitan Opera, the largest performing arts institution in the United States, has decided to cancel their entire 2020-2021 season without any hope of returning until Fall of 2021. The general manager of the Met, Peter Gelb, announced the Met’s sudden closure on Sept. 23rd. Gelb said that health officials strongly advised that it wouldn’t be safe for the Met to perform until a successful vaccine was discovered for the coronavirus. The fact is, neither the Met nor any other ensembles should even consider completely cancelling their season performances. If live performances with audiences are unattainable or too risky, then they should search for alternatives. As a violinist of fourteen years, I know how much a complete shutdown will affect ensembles. One of the most significant ways that ensembles are affected is financially. Cancelling seasons could affect ensembles to the point of permanent closure. Another way that ensembles will be affected is decreased recruitment. This especially affects youth orchestras because young musicians have less motivation and aren’t as easy to recruit as their older, more experienced counterparts. The longer orchestras postpone ensemble activity, the less likely members are to stay. Cancellation of orchestral events also affects individuals emotionally. Music is among the most powerful means to release emotions. The timing for such effects could not be any worse, with the rates of depression and drug use soaring due to drastic lifestyle changes caused by the pandemic. While the option of going back to traditional live performances currently has a very bleak outlook, the creative ingenuity of musicians, leaders, and administrations across the nation has proved that alternatives to live performances are possible. Many ensembles have successfully experimented with the outdoor performances, as well as pre-recorded ‘concerts.’ By developing new ideas and innovations, musicians everywhere are rapidly proving that music ensembles can stay functional. While professional orchestras across the country have been able to provide music performances for the public, many colleges have been attempting similar efforts. By using bell covers for woodwinds and brass and social distancing rules for strings and percussion, even the college’s largest ensembles have been rehearsing and performing on a regular basis. Last Wednesday, Grove City College’s symphonic orchestra performed their first livestream concert as a full ensemble. This performance garnered over 2,000 views and was a significant achievement for both Grove City College and the staff, faculty and students involved, and

News The Collegian,

Oct. 2, 2020

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Bon Appetit addresses concerns Gabrielle Capaldo Staff Writer

At the beginning of the semester on Aug. 25, senior Hannah Kaufmann sent an email to Bon Appetit headquarters about the poorquality food. This prompted the Regional Vice President of Bon Appetit to personally visit the college’s dining halls. It was the first week of classes when Kaufmann saw that MAP Café was serving beef quesadillas. Thinking this menu option sounded delicious, she went to MAP only to be sorely disappointed. “The beef quesadillas were actually burnt layered tortillas, beef and cheese in an 8x13 pan of which you get a tiny square served with zucchini which makes no sense,” Kaufmann said. “I didn’t want to live like this the rest CALEB WEST of the year.” Ethan Pierson, Katarina Meikrantz and Josh Wanek produce a ‘Shakespearcy Theory’ episode. According to Bon Appetit’s standards of wellness on their website, they serve food that is pleasing to the eye, low in sodium and contains healthy options. In her email, Kaufmann stated these standards are “laughable” because the dining halls do not reflect them. She requested that she be directed to someone in charge of quality control. The next day, Randy De Mers, Regional Vice President of Bon Appetit, conhome in March due to COHowever, some of the tacted her directly. “Reading Alyssa Dixon VID. Now as a sophomore, magic of a regular pre-COyour email suggests we have Contributing Writer her role as student coordi- VID rehearsal has been lost some work to do,” he said. too. Flick explains, “I know On Aug. 28, De Mers perImagine—you and your nator is to oversee the play. Flick says this year’s fall something a lot of people sonally came to campus along fellow cast members are up on stage before an audito- play, “Shakespearacy Theo- miss is the community. Be- with the Regional Marketing ry,” is based on classic You- cause now instead of getting Director, Jennifer McGann, rium filled with people. to work with a whole cast and Director of Operations There is an eruption of Tube shows. “The inspiration Profesor a whole ensemble you’re on campus, Lynna McNany. cheers as you all line up, sor Craig came from was with maybe the two or three “During the meeting they grab hands, and bow, marking the end of a thrilling per- Rhett and Link’s show. other people in your scene. all said, ‘we won’t talk, we There are vlogs that we will And those are the only peo- just want to hear you talk,’” formance. said Kaufmann. After spending all this post on YouTube and Insta- ple you see.” gram where they will go out Flick says that there will She addressed concerns time sharing a stage togethinto the real word, which is also be one scene shot with about the quality of the er, these people have beGrove City, and find people a big group, but the rest of menu and made specific sugcome like family to you. who are doing Shakespeare the scenes will have only a gestions such as bringing Now imagine if a virus back the toaster and having were to come along and force scenes. It’s not a fluid play few people. Right now, the cast is post- more fresh fruit. She also people to social distance. It of Shakespeare, but more would surely change every- like Shakespeare is being ing on the show’s Instagram suggested that the company thing: your routine, your thrown into our everyday account, @shakespearacy_ “stop trying to be gourmet theory, and students can in- because college students are relationship with your cast lives.” The cast’s general attitude teract with the cast via polls not gourmet.” members and more. As a result, the company This is exactly what hap- towards the play, according and quizzes which will then pened to Leah Flick and the to Flick, has been mostly be included in the shows. Be worked with Kaufmann to Grove City College theater positive: “They can take on sure to follow to be included assemble a focus group to express their feedback and department after COVID-19 as much as or as little work in the fun. as they want, which is really Production is only now specific meal ideas. Members struck. nice on your schedule load beginning, but once comof the focus group include Flick began as a co-stage compared to regular musiplete the videos will be postan athlete, a gluten-free stumanager her freshman year until she and the rest of cal where you had to show ed on the show’s YouTube dent, a student on a keto diet and a vegan. The group met the student body were sent up to every rehearsal for channel as well. months.” on Sept. 3 and Sept. 29 and

Shakin’ it up in the theater Cast begins to film fall Shakespeare production

will continue to meet monthly. “The students in the focus group were extremely responsive, extremely polite and asked good questions,” Kaufmann said. “They really want to be part of the campus community.” According to De Mers, Kaufmann’s feedback helped them see that their dishes have been overcomplicated. “As a result of her feedback, we’ve refocused on the basics over the last few weeks: proper seasoning, simple but thoughtful preparation and combining the right ingredients with authentic intentions,” De Mers said. Multiple students say they have seen positive changes in the dining halls. “The gluten-free section is limited, but I’ve definitely noticed that they have been making changes,” said junior Gabrielle Hickly. “I think the food is so much better than it has been.” “They’ve gotten better and better as they figure out what works,” junior Zoe Goncz said. However, other students believe the food has not improved. “It definitely went downhill from the beginning of the semester,” senior Jonathan Douthit said. “This semester, the employees seem to be much friendlier than before, but there are some areas with food that could still be improved,” senior Hope Fiely said. “Simple foods can be better sometimes.” De Mers states that Bon Appetit is starting to focus their efforts on preparing better food in light of COVID. They intend to reduce traffic in Hicks by making the dining experience more enticing in the GeDunk and MAP. Bon Appetit is also working on moving away from pre-portioned food and plastic silverware. “The main problem is that they just don’t know what we want,” Kaufmann said. “They need us to tell them what we want.” The focus group will continue to meet monthly on Oct. 20 and Nov. 17. in the Grace Room in Rathburn at 6 p.m. Anyone is welcomed and encouraged to attend. “We are your partners, and we want to do our part well,” De Mers said. “When we make mistakes, we will listen, identify solutions and strive to be better each day.”

Trueman triumphs in book release Fiona Lacey

Community Editor By the time it is published at the end of November, Dr. Carl Trueman will already have sold more than 5,000 copies of his new book, “The Rise and Triumph of the Modern Self: Cultural Amnesia, Expressive Individualism, and the Road to Sexual Revolution.” Dr. Trueman, a Biblical and Religious Studies professor at the college, is known for his somewhat mainstream following in the Christian world. A regular writer for the religious journal “First Things,” and the Gospel Coalition, Trueman maintains a solid Christian-intellectu-

al fanbase, though nothing compared to lately. “ P e t e r Thiel’s assistant sent me an email asking for a copy of the book. I almost fell off my chair,” Trueman said, referring to the Founder of Paypal. “That was when I realized this was starting to get unusual.” Publisher’s Weekly picked up the book in September, with Trueman’s work gaining only more traction as a result. “That was huge,” Trueman said. “The interviewer – a liberal Christian woman -liked it. But then an anony-

mous reviewer hated it. Still, they both paid attention to it!’ The book’s popularity comes as no surprise, though, as Trueman’s analysis of the Sexual Revolution and the roots of sexual identity are not only astute but relevant to 21st century culture and politics. “Think of the biggest political questions of our daymany of them relate to issues of sexual identity,” Trueman said. “I ask three questions in the book. How does the self become psychologized? How does psychology become sexualized? And how does sex become politicized? Those are the three big moves that I see in the last 300 years.”

It should also be made clear that Trueman’s work is not a polemical critique of Western sexual expression, but an analysis of its roots and timeline. It is this timeline’s beginning that remains the point of real interest to Dr. Trueman. “I think we need to see the Sexual Revolution as symptomatic of a much wider cultural revolution in how the self is understood. We too, as Christian Conservatives, are complicit in this narrative.” With a foreword by Senior Editor at The American Conservative, Rod Dreher, Trueman expects the book to hit a different but key demographic.

“Most of my other books are of narrow academic or ecclesiastical interest,” Trueman said. “This new work addresses a hot-button issue that most likely will remain for most of the 21st century.” In November, Dr. Trueman’s book will be the focus of a Gospel Coalition Zoom Conference and then in December he will speak on it to a seminar at the University of Cambridge. With just two years under his belt, Dr. Carl Trueman remains a well-loved figure on the Grove City College campus. “I love teaching at Grove City College. Hope to remain here till I retire,” Trueman smiled.

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GCC

Wide receiver Cody Gustafson makes a catch in the 2018 Eastern College Athletic Conference James Lynah Bowl game against Morrisville State. The Wolverines went on to win this game 56-48.

Finding joy in all seasons Senior shares the positives in COVID Cody Gustafson Contributing Writer

“Joy always in me through all things before me.” This is a phrase that has had a huge impact on me since it was first unpacked to me my freshman year. I have been blessed to be a part of one of the greatest program turnarounds in college football history. With that being said, how can you possibly be joyful after losing 33 straight football games? Well, I can assure you that I saw guys that went through that experience and

still had joy. One might think that they just did not care that much about football. If you were around for the 2017-night game against St. Vincent, then you certainly know that all those guys, in fact, really did care about football. The simple answer to that question is that my teammates were not finding their joy in winning football games, but rather they found their joy in glorifying God. A book of the Bible that can be related to this phrase is Job. If you do not know the story, Satan basically took everything from Job. He struck down all of his livestock, his children and family, and then finally took all of his health. After this was done, Job still did not curse God. In fact, he

still gave praise to the Lord. It was not until Job’s three friends came along that Job fell into despair. Regardless, Job was still able to have joy through all of those circumstances, and that would not have been possible if he were deriving joy from earthly things. Last year I was faced with a less than desirable circumstance. I had to play through an injury for the first half of the football season and was not able to perform at a high level. It was devastating, but I kept coming back to the phrase “joy always in me through all things before me.” Football is great, but God is everything. I felt a different kind of freedom when

I chose that mindset. This mindset is also what can propel us through these strange times. Once again, it was devastating to hear that my senior year of college football was postponed. You work so hard to be in the best shape of your life for your senior season of college sports, and to have it taken away is a tough pill to swallow. I may sound like a broken record at this point, but joy always in me through all things before me. God has a plan for each and every one of us, and if that plan does not include playing this season of college sports, then that is something that we must accept. One thing that we have been stressing for football is

that we have a unique opportunity to use this time to master everything we do and get a chance to compete for a modified PAC championship in the spring. I am sure that this can be applied across all sports as well, so I challenge everyone that is competing in a sport here to take this same mindset throughout the fall, and to apply the phrase “joy always in me through all things before me” to your sport and everyday life. Cody Gustafson is a senior wide receiver and is Grove City’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards and touchdown catches.

National sports column

Lightning strikes back in Stanley Cup

Connor Schlosser Staff Writer The Tampa Bay Lightning arose victorious in their faceoff with the Dallas Stars last Monday in game six of the Stanley Cup Final. It’s Tampa’s first Cup since 2004, but it has been only five years since the Lightning were in the Final in 2015. Tampa Bay has remained a force in the playoffs for almost two decades. As for the runnerup’s, Dallas has not held the Stanley Cup since 1999. Neither the Stars or the Lightning were the top-seeded teams ranked third and second respectively. But both teams showed up to compete. Dallas gained the upper hand in the first game of PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE the series defeating their The Tampa Bay Lightning team celebrates their win over the Dallas Stars. It secured their win of the 2020 Stanley Cup Finals on Monopponents 4-1. But the day night. Tampa finished 4-2 overall in the 6-game series. Lightning’s triplet of wins than Mon- American sports are in full the shaft of viewership this directly following had and were vanquished by the viewership Lightning in game six 2-0. day Night Football. The swing when usually both season. But do not jump off the Stars playing catchThe Stanley Cup this most important game of the NHL and NBA are done the cliff just yet. Once the up with a 3-1 difference. Game five was a battle season seemed to slip past the NHL could not com- with their seasons by June. leagues get their schedules forced into double over- sports fans’ radars un- pete with a regular season But now they are compet- back on track and teams time. The Stars refused to detected. With the NFL duel between the Ravens ing with the tail end of the fill their stadiums the NHL be eliminated. It was Dallas startup and NBA play- and Chiefs. It has been the regular season of MLB, should recover just fine. So, if you kind of forright wing Corey Perry that off action in full swing, least watched since 2007. NFL matchups and a more the NHL was not publiMany factors play into the popular NBA Playoffs. got that the Stanley Cup sealed the deal for the Stars cized as much as its comconcerning low viewership. With the combination of was going on, you are not sending the puck behind First, there has been this COVID and the tangling of alone. Hockey will be back the net for a clutch win 3-2. petition for viewership. In fact, game six of the pandemic thing going on professional sports sched- in its truest form, hopeBut the Stars could not dig Stanley Cup Final had less called COVID-19. All four ules, the NHL has gotten fully, by next season. themselves out of the 3-2 hole

Sports The Collegian, Oct. 2, 2020

Page 12

Seniors power through Powderpuff game brings back football

Ayden Gutierrez Contributing Writer

The 202o edition of Homecoming at Grove City College has arguably been just as strange as the rest of the calendar year. Although many of the traditional activities have been cancelled due to COVID-19, one familiar aspect has remained on the schedule: Football. No, it is not the traditional Homecoming football game that normally sees our mighty Wolverines take on a Presidents’ Athletic Conference rival. This year’s installment of the Homecoming football game consisted of the annual Powderpuff football game that pits the senior girls against the junior girls. Grove City is currently going through a sports withdrawal, as fall sports have been moved to the spring. For a campus that has not seen athletic competition since the beginning of the spring, it was evident that Grove City College students missed sports. Thorn Field was rocking on Monday night. It truly felt like a normal fall night: The marching band was performed, fans cheered from the stands, the student announcers commentated from the booth, and football was played on the turf. As the players took the field for kickoff, a light drizzle began to fall. The first football game at Grove City College in 2020 had true football weather. From the get-go, it was evident that this game would be a defensive showdown. The first few series resulted in punts. Eventually, the seniors got things going and began to march down the field. Columbia Harkrader put the seniors up 7-0 with a rushing touchdown midway through the first half. After

HANNAH HAMMERSLEY

Junior Lillian Kimpel attempts to intercept the ball from the seniors in the 2020 Powderpuff football game. The Seniors blanked the juniors by a grand total of 18-0 in the annual Homecoming event. a series of consecutive interceptions, the juniors had the ball inside the five-yard line. The juniors attempted to run a reverse, but the senior defense was all over it, tackling the ball carrier in the endzone for a safety. The ball carrier threw as pass as her flag was pulled, so the officials met to discuss the play. The play was ruled a safety, giving two points to the seniors to increase their lead to 9-0. The story of the night was the senior defensive squad, as they racked up a massive total of eight interceptions and one fumble recovery, resulting in nine turnovers for the juniors. Michaela Higgins had three interceptions.

“It was such a fun night filled with competition, great fans, and rockin’ cheerleaders.” Said Higgins. “After so many things were cancelled this fall, I was so happy to be able to still compete in Powderpuff. It is one of my favorite nights on campus, and I am pumped the seniors got the win.” The seniors didn’t skip a beat coming out of the break. Just like the first half, the second half was dominated by the senior defense. The seniors would go on to score twice more, another safety and a passing touchdown from quarterback Jessica Kimbrell to Jess Bowen. The Kim-

brell touchdown pass would set the final score at 18-0. “Our defense had an unbelievable game,” said senior head coach Cody Gustafson. “It was probably one of the most dominant powderpuff performances that I have ever been a part of. All of the girls played super hard and I couldn’t be more proud of them.” Although the Juniors were doomed by turnovers, Head Coach Josh Ehst was pleased by the effort from his squad and hopes to come back next fall and lead his squad to victory. “Everyone involved did a great job and had a lot of fun,” said Ehst. “We had a

good turnout of fans which created a great game-time atmosphere. The cheerleaders and announcers made it even better. It was a hard fought game on both sides, but at the end of the day we had no answer for their defensive line and rushing attack.” The 2020 installment of the Homecoming Powderpuff football game was nothing short of exceptional. For a campus that had been struggling to figure out how to replace the void of no sports, the atmosphere at Thorn Field on Monday Night was a nice reminder of how much of an impact sports has on this community.

Alums carry on legacies as coaches Emily Rupczewski Sports Editor

For this week’s issue, The Collegian caught up with three of our alumnae athletes, all of whom are now coaches themselves at either the high school or college level. Brittany Anderson ’08 is currently teaches science at ChaAnderson ‘08 grin Falls High School in the Cleveland area. Anderson, a high school graduate of Chagrin, is also the women’s head basketball coach, as well as the assistant track and field coach. Anderson reflects on her experience as an athlete and how the athletic department has grown since her time as an athlete at Grove City. “Within the athletic department there was a lot of support. When I was a student athlete, I was president of SAAC. The whole collective mindset of the “Wolverines Together” not just being the student athletes that are Wolverines, but the entire college. I’ve really enjoyed

that change and watching that grow for the college.” Grove City is known for its unique approach to athletics, with Christ and community as the center. Anderson compared her rigorous and competitive high school athletic culture to that of Grove City’s, noting that her experience as a Wolverine has shaped how she coaches today. “Going to Grove City, your coaches view you as a whole person. They’re concerned, not only with your athletic growth, but with your academic growth and spiritual growth,” she said. The newest addition to the womens basketball coaching staff this year is, Jackie Stewart ’17. “It is still surreal that I am back on camStewart ‘17 pus. From coming in my freshman year, which was also Coach Fuss’ first year as the Head Coach, to now coming back as the assistant coach is just a really cool full circle,” Stewart said. After graduating, Stewart served with Athletes in Ac-

tion. She played on a team of current college students and recent graduates from all divisions across the United States. “We traveled to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia for a few weeks and had the opportunity to use basketball as a platform for sharing the Gospel and Christ’s love to the nation and people of Ethiopia,” she said. Since returning to campus, Stewart has been hard at work, building up the women’s basketball program that raised her. “My main duty as the assistant coach is to recruit prospective student-athletes who take the vision of our program—to be the #1 Team in the PAC, with the right culture—seriously.” Stewart said. “As a new coach on staff and during this time of preseason, I’ve been focused on getting to know the girls outside of basketball – building these relationships is the most rewarding part of coaching!” Leigh-Ann Trepanier ‘19 is another name among recent graduates who is currently teaching and coaching, as well as still training athleti-

cally herself. During her time at Grove City, Trepanier played tennis and worked closely with the men’s basketball team, where she served as the Director of Basketball OpTrepanier ‘19 erations alongside Coach Steve Lamie and Sean Severson. Trepanier currently resides in The Woodlands, Texas, where she teaches kindergarten at The Woodlands Christian Academy and is the head tennis coach. She agrees that her unique experience as a student athlete at Grove City, as well as the opportunity to work alongside Coach Lamie prepared her for own future in coaching. “I will say, for coaching it is slightly different for me. I was able to be the Director of Basketball Operations for the men’s basketball team for 3 years which helped shape me into the coach that I am today.” Trepanier said. When she is not teaching or coaching, Trepanier notes that she is still an athlete herself.“I am still training for

competitions under the USA weightlifting organization who holds competitions for weightlifters who do Olympic lifts.” Trepanier’s favorite times as an athlete were representing Grove City in the NCAA tournament for tennis, long travel trips with team devotions and worship and playing dodgeball with the men’s basketball team during special practices Grove City has raised each of these athletes into coaches themselves, and each agree that the athletics culture that they experienced has helped shape them into the coaches they are today. “The ‘Wolverines Together’ philosophy of our athletic department is outstanding.” Stewart said. “The vision of ‘Wolverines Together’ was casted after I graduated. So it has been amazing to come back on campus as a coach and see not just the increase in competitive excellence but also the culture of, ‘if we win, we all win.’ This vision is truly alive in the culture of every single team on campus.”