Katelyn M Auty

Dallas Mavericks lose Kyrie Irving to devastating injury Kyrie Irving plays for the Brooklyn Nets in a game against the Cavaliers in 2022. PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS Kaya Wagner Staff Writer Late in the first quarter of the Dallas Mavericks’ March 3 game against the Sacramento Kings, the team lost their all-star point guard Kyrie Irving to a season-ending injury. The nine-time All-Star’s injury was initially ruled as a strain but was announced the next day as a torn ACL, and now Irving is out for the rest of the season and a potential playoff run.  The loss of Irving has devastated the Mavericks and delivered a blow toward any hopes of a playoff run for the team. Irving has been the team’s most consistent performer, appearing in 50 of the team’s 62 games. He is also the sole NBA player to have an at least 20 points average, along with boasting impressive stats of 40% three-point shooting and 90% free-throw accuracy. Irving’s workload for the team has been increased since the trade of Luka Doncic to the Los Angeles Lakers, with a league-leading playing time of an average of 39.3 minutes per game prior to his injury. The player that the Mavericks acquired from the controversial trade, Anthony Davis, also suffered an adductor strain during his debut game, and he has remained sidelined with no current timetable for his return. This point in the season is especially crucial for the Mavericks since the team is trying to secure a playoff spot. The team is holding on to the 10th seed of the Western Conference, making them currently eligible for playoffs. The team did drop to a record of 32-30 after their loss to the Kings, with them only being 3 and a half games ahead of the Phoenix Suns for the tenth seed.  The NBA world waits anxiously to see what the Mavericks will do with their depleted roster, with the two most likely candidates to take Irving’s position being Spencer Dinwiddle or Max Christie. The team’s decision on who to fill in for the All-Star point guard can be the biggest factor in wheth […] “Dallas Mavericks lose Kyrie Irving to devastating injury”

Officer killed in hospital shooting laid to rest Payje Davis Associate Arts & Culture Editor Officer Andrew Duarte of the West York Borough Police Department was laid to rest on Friday, Feb. 28, at Living Word Community Church in Red Lion, Pennsylvania.  Officer Duarte was killed in the line of duty at UPMC Memorial Hospital in West Manchester Twp on Saturday, Feb. 22, following a hostage situation that ended in shots being fired, hitting five people, killing Duarte in the process.  49-year-old Diogenes Archangel-Ortiz lost a terminally ill family member in the care of the UPMC ICU a week before the attack, something he had difficulty accepting. Archangel Ortiz walked into that hospital around 10:30 a.m. with a handgun and zip ties, headed straight for the ICU. The culprit held multiple nurses at gunpoint, with one nurse recounting, “Every click of that gun was like being punched in the head,” according to a Facebook post from Jason Huff recounting his wife, Jessica Breighner’s experience on her behalf.  Another nurse, Tosha Trostle, recounted her situation of being held hostage by the attacker. “I eventually fell onto the floor under the weight of the shooter’s body. The officers told me to run. I struggled to get out from under him.” Trostle recalled as police burst through the doors, she heard gunshots, and then the shell casings hit the floor as police took down Archangel-Ortiz. UPMC did not have metal detectors at the hospital entrance at the time of the incident. However, the call for them at the hospital entrance has been astronomical following this incident. Officers and EMS from counties all over the region have come together to honor Duarte’s life of service. Before the service, officers were seen gathered at the Rutters across the street from where the funeral was he […] “Officer killed in hospital shooting laid to rest”

Alex Ovechkin to use Gretzky goal chase for cancer research funding Alex Ovechkin celebrates a goal in a 2012 game against the Montreal Canadiens. PHOTO COURTESY OF FLICKR Katelyn Auty Head Copy Editor Social Media Editor Associate Sports Editor  Alex Ovechkin, captain of the Washington Capitals, is just 11 goals away from breaking Wayne Gretzky’s career goal record. Washington announced today that Ovechkin is teaming up with the Capitals, Hockey Fights Cancer, and the V Foundation for Cancer Research to launch THE GR8 CHASE for Victory Over Cancer. THE GR8 CHASE is an initiative to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancer.  Starting at the Capitals’ game against the New York Rangers on Wednesday, March 5 until the end of his career, Ovechkin is personally donating to pediatric cancer research for each goal he scores. Monumental Sports & Entertainment, the company that owns and operates the Capitals, will be matching his donations.  Ovechkin has invited fans to join in on the fundraising efforts. The suggested starting price for a donation is $8 – Ovechkin’s jersey number – but donors may give any amount they can. According to the V Foundation’s website, “The donations raised will fund a childhood cancer research grant through the V Foundation in Ovechkin’s honor: the Alex Ovechkin GR8 Chase Pediatric Cancer Research Grant.” “There is so much attention on the chase, so I’m using that to help. We should all help and make cancer go away,” Ovechkin shared with ESPN. “It doesn’t matter where you live, cancer touches everyone. It’s important for all of us to talk about finding a cure.” In his twentieth season, Ovechkin is sitting at 884 career goals, only 11 goals away from breaking Gretzky’s record of 894.  “This is a true power play,” said Shane Jacobson, CEO of the V Foundation for Cancer Research, in a statement. “Alex Ovechkin’s summit to greatness on the ice has been a thrill for all hockey fans, and his commitment to funding innovative pediatric cancer research will make a lifesaving impact for years to come. We are thrilled to have Alex on our team. We look forward to celebrating his accomplishments and celebrating advancements in cancer research together as we accelerate Victory Over Cancer.” For m […] “Alex Ovechkin to use Gretzky goal chase for cancer research funding”

Legendary Penguins broadcaster dies at 76 Broadcaster Mike Lange takes questions from fans during a Q&A before a Penguins morning skate in 2011. PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS Kaya Wagner Staff Writer The Pittsburgh Penguins announced on Feb. 19 that Mike Lange, a Hall of Fame broadcaster, passed away at the age of 76.  Lange had served as a caller for the Penguins for 46 years. Throughout his career, he was the caller for all five of the team’s Stanley Cup wins and also received the Hockey Hall of Fame’s Foster Hewitt Award for outstanding broadcast in 2001. He later retired in 2021.  Lange’s career with the Penguins started in the 1974-75 season as a radio play-by-play announcer. He then took the next season off before returning for the 1976-77 season. Lange focused on radio until 1979, when the TV and radio coverage had become simulcast. He remained the TV voice until the 2005-06 season, before returning to radio for the 2006-07 season.  In a statement on Instagram, the Penguins posted, “Mike Lange was a wordsmith – a magician behind the mike. The Californian quickly became a quintessential Pittsburgher, and his colorful calls and smooth cadence brought Penguins hockey to life.” The statement continued by saying, “The Hall of Famer’s voice is synonymous with the biggest calls in franchise history, including all five Stanley Cup Championships, and his unique one-liners and knack for anticipating game-changing plays set him apart from other announcers. Only Mike could make the biggest names in hockey seem even more magical with just his voice.” The Penguins honored Lange Saturday night before facing off against the Washington Capitals at the PPG Paints Arena. Fans brought signs displaying some of his iconic quotes, and the press box featured a bouquet of flowers along with a retro headset.  Coach Mike Sullivan, head coach of the Penguins, shared the impact of the ceremony. “It was an emotional few moments for, particularly, the guys who have been here a while that had the privilege to know and interacted with him,” said Sullivan. “For those guys, I’m sure it was an emotional moment. But also I just thought it was a great tribute to Mike — what he means to Pittsburgh, what he means to th […] “Legendary Penguins broadcaster dies at 76”

The rise and fall of DEI: How changing politics are reshaping corporate America Mathya Clay Staff Writer As corporate America grapples with shifting economic pressures and political climates, many companies are scaling back or re-evaluating their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Once celebrated as essential pillars of workplace culture, these programs now face resistance, with some businesses opting to cut back or abandon them entirely. For university students preparing to enter the workforce, this could mean navigating an entirely new landscape. Where did DEI come from? Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) refers to policies and practices aimed at promoting inclusivity and ensuring individuals feel valued. Many organizations, such as schools, government agencies, and corporations, have adopted DEI policies over time. DEI initiatives in business emerged as a response to societal events. According to Forbes, DEI started in the 1960s following the Civil Rights Act and was implemented in the 1980s. Other sources, like AP News, trace DEI to 2020 after George Floyd’s death. For instance, Walmart and Amazon pushed their DEI initiatives in 2020, while companies like Target began in 2023. DEI in business can include employing people from diverse cultural backgrounds, especially minorities, participating in surveys like the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index, and setting policies to improve minority customer experiences. With the re-election of Donald Trump and the continued political debates surrounding race and equality, DEI initiatives are once again under scrutiny. Companies are reconsidering their commitment to diversity and inclusion in light of this political climate. What’s happening to DEI now? Before Donald Trump’s declaration of “justice” against DEI, anti-DEI activists had already emerged. Robert Starbuck, a 36-year-old former Hollywood music video director and conservative activist, has actively led campaigns against DEI in large corporations. He advocates for a “neutral” corporate America free of social issues. Since June 2024, Starbucks has targeted companies like Tractor Supply and John Deere. Although it’s unclear whether Starbucks’ campaigns caused the changes, both companies retracted their DEI statements shortly after his efforts. In Jan. 2025, Trump issued an executive order instructing the federal government to investigate “illegal DEI.” The order does not define illegal DEI but refers to it as a “corrosive and pernicious identity-based spoils system.” This action has sparked multiple federal changes and warnings. On Feb. 15, 2025, the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights notified all state education departments of required changes within 14 days. Federal agency websites, including those of the Office of Personnel Management, State Department, and Department of Homeland Security, have removed DEI-related documents. Federal DEI staff members have been placed on paid leave, with some sources, such as Time, speculating that they will eventually be terminated. On the business side, companies like Google, Target, and Amazon have scaled back their DEI initiatives. Google recalled its goal to increase the representation of underrepresented groups. Target ended a program supporting Black-owned businesses and helping Black employees build careers. Amazon announced the winding down of certain programs but did not specify which ones. Other companies, including Lowe’s, Meta, McDonald’s, and Ford, have made similar changes. While some corporations have publicly committed to maintaining their DEI initiatives, companies like Costco, JPMorgan Chase, and Apple have refused to alter theirs. University graduates entering the workforce may face a rapidly changing landscape. Staying informed will be crucial for students as they plan their career paths. What to expect in the future Despite current challenges, evidence suggests that many corporations will continue to develop their DEI initiatives. More than a third of executives surveyed in Bridge Partners’ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion 2024 Barometer stated that the suspension of the US House Office of Diversity would not affect their DEI efforts. Companies continue to prioritize DEI, particularly within human resources and leadership. Although federal actions may impact these initiatives, many corporations plan to pursue DEI strategies moving forward. Coming from Millersville University student Ahmir Dawson, taking DEI policies into consideration when looking for careers is only a stepping block. Dawson believes it is more about the actual “cultural makeup” of an area than it is about the policies of a business. “I think it is important to have such policies in the company but not only this, to also integrate a mindset of mutual understanding within the culture of the company, not just regulations and rules.” For Dawson, when looking for jobs it’s the difference between the “culture of Philadelphia and Lancaster,” not which of the two companies has better DEI policies.  As the workforce continues to evolve, the future of DEI initiatives remains uncertain. For students entering the workforce, staying upda […] “The rise and fall of DEI: How changing politics are reshaping corporate America”

Devastating fire at SPS Technologies in Jenkintown avoided being potentially much worse Kaya Wagner Staff Writer  On Feb. 19 an explosion occurred at a SPS Technologies factory located at Jenkintown in Abington Township. A massive fire then erupted in the 560,000-square-foot facility and led to the evacuation of all 60 workers there. Schools the following day opted to close, with authorities issuing a shelter-in-place order within a one-mile radius of the factory. 68 fire companies responded to help contain the four-alarm fire at the facility. Concerns came from the thick smoke from the building and whether the smoke contained possibly hazardous chemicals.  SPS Technologies manufactures nuts, bolts, and metal fasteners for industries such as aerospace and aviation. Concern for those in the area comes after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fined the company $110,000 for violating hazardous waste storage regulations.  Officials confirmed on Feb. 20 that the fire had not reached the section of the building where the largest stores of chemicals were kept. Environmental agencies have been monitoring the area, where testing has shown that there are no threats to air or drinking water quality, although a small amount of “chemicals of concern” were found adjacent to the site at Tookany Creek, a body of water not used for drinking.  SPS Technologies shared a statement on the night of Feb. 20 saying, “We truly appreciate the efforts of the first responders and other authorities who have worked tirelessly to keep everyone safe and to address the fire, as well as the messages of support from the community that we’ve been a part of for more than 120 years. We regret the significant impact the fire has had on our neighbors, and we will be reaching out to the community in the days and weeks ahead. … We are working to understand the extent of the damage and its impact on our business, as well as our path forward.” While there are still hot spots at the site of the fire, demolition has begun at the site. This decision was made to ultimately allow firefighters to gain better access to the hot spots and allow for them to b […] “Devastating fire at SPS Technologies in Jenkintown avoided being potentially much worse”

New York Yankees make stunning change to facial hair policy The New York Yankees logo. PHOTO COURTESY OF JEFF LOUGHLIN / ROBOFLOW UNIVERSE Ben Staker Sports Editor On the morning of Friday, Feb 21, the New York Yankees made a move that stunned many people in the baseball industry. No, it wasn’t a trade, free agency signing, or even bringing in a new coach…it was an “alteration” to their long-standing policy that prevented all members of the organization from growing facial hair below the lips. In a statement posted on the New York Yankees official X account, @Yankees, the team said “We will be amending our expectations to allow our players and uniformed personnel to have well-groomed beards moving forward.” This will be the first time since the 1976 season that the Yankees allow their players to grow facial hair. What makes this announcement so shocking is that it was made in silence. There weren’t any rumors the team was looking to change their policy until the news finally broke. According to Bryan Hoch, a long-time Yankees reporter for MLB.com, Yankees star pitcher, Gerrit Cole, told him that General Manager Brian Cashman told the team “We’re not trying to look like Duck Dynasty.” The other key thing to highlight from the Yankees press conference after the announcement this morning is a comment from Yankees owner, Hal Steinbrenner. Steinbrenner told the media today that it would be “very, very concerning” if a player the team wanted to acquire decided not to play for the team because of its policy. With the change to the facial hair policy, the Yankees have made it clear that they’re trying to usher in a new era of baseball for the entire organization. Many have been critical of the policy over the years, but that can no longer be the case. As a fan of major league baseball, I think this is a great move for the team. As the team’s owner Steinbrenner mentioned, it would be concerning if the team missed out on players because of their rule. While the effects of this change won’t be immediately felt since spring training is already underway, it could play a big role in players the team acquires in trades at the deadline and free agents they sign in the future. This move is great for both the Yankees and Major League Baseball because it could help one of, if not the most, prominent sports franchises in the entire world become more compe […] “New York Yankees make stunning change to facial hair policy”

Why bad movies can be good movies Millie Castellani Staff Writer I am prefacing this piece with the disclosure that I am not an avid movie watcher. In my lifetime, I’ve likely sat through the full run time of less than maybe 30 movies. That being said, take what I say lightly – or perhaps with some lenience when I say that bad movies can be good movies. Now, some of my favorite movies include titles that are considered to be ‘film classics’ in their respective genres – “The Tale of The Princess Kaguya” and “Rear Window” respectively, from different studios both on a national and international scale. Captivating, charming, and artistically styled with skilled writing; these movies are a pleasure to watch and rewatch. With that being said, the top spot of my favorite movie of all time goes to the 2003 adaption of Dr. Seuss’ “The Cat in the Hat.” Yes, that movie – which received a 10% ‘Tomatometer’ rating on the Rotten Tomatoes website (which, for those like me who aren’t readily familiar with this rating, is a very, very low rating). The live-action portrayal features actor Mike Meyers as Cat in The Hat – who was also featured in the parody spy movie series “Austin Powers.” The movie itself is off-the-wall crazy, in what I like to think of as a maximalist nightmare.  So then, why am I a fan of this movie – which could easily be written off as an overstimulating cash grab aimed at unsuspecting children? Because it’s terrible! It doesn’t try to say anything, nor does it try to tap into my brain. Its jokes are sometimes sloppily executed, but when they hit – they hit hard belly laughs. If anything, the sheer absurdity of it all makes it entertaining to me.  As much as I love movies that leave me with a lingering sense of confusion –or movies that immediately make me think, “Huh, I need to watch that again;” I simply cannot deny my soft spot for movies that are shameless film slop. This also extends to the realm of movies that take themself so seriously it’s comical and to those blessed movies that know exactly what they are and don’t pretend to be something more than what they are. What I’m trying to say, whether it be to an average movie-goer, those like me who can barely remember half of the movies they’ve seen, or to the cinema super-fans I see in passing while writing my rare Letterboxed review online: Give bad movies a shot. Go in looking for a laugh – or at the very least, to check something off […] “Why bad movies can be good movies”

Autumn Lockwood becomes first Black woman coach to win a Super Bowl Katelyn Auty Head […] “”

Local PIAA 4A Player of the Year chooses Millersville Lampeter-Strasburg […] “”

Spinion: Professional teams should hire better merch designers Katelyn Auty Head […] “”

Alex Bregman signs with the Boston Red Sox Alex Bregman enters […] “”

MU club feature: Books and Banter Members of the Books […] “”

PWHL celebrates Black History Month The PWHL logo. PHOTO […] “”

NFL mourns loss of Chicago Bears owner Virginia Halas McCaskey Kaya Wagner Staff […] “”

NFL Honors recap Bills quarterback […] “”

Super Bowl preview Ben Staker Sports […] “”

Millersville D2 Ice Hockey secures 5-2 Senior Night win over Penn State Harrisburg The Marauders embrace after securing their win against Penn State Harrisburg. KATELYN AUTY / SNAPPER Katelyn Auty Head Copy Editor Social Media Editor Associate Sports Editor Millersville D2 Ice Hockey secured a 5-2 victory over Penn State Harrisburg during their last game of the regular season Saturday night. After a last-minute forfeit from Bryn Athyn, Penn State Harrisburg agreed to be Millersville’s opponent.  The game included a pre-game ceremony recognizing the team’s seniors. Those recognized include: #14 Forward Jacob Burke, who also serves as the team’s captain #13 Forward Elias Lountzis #12 Forward Joe Pedicone #30 Goalie Dylan Schroeder #11 Forward Cole McCulley #20 Forward Alden Spotts #26 Defenseman Pat McDevitt #15 Forward Justin Carrelli Graphic Designer Anne Russell Scoreboard Operator Colesen Sheaffer Broadcaster Joshua Gearhart (“The Voice of Millersville Ice Hockey”) Announcer Chamomile Giblin Photographer Kylee Dwinal Both teams had high energy right out of the gate. About halfway through the first period, Millersville’s Joe Pedicone opened the scoring with a shorthanded goal assisted by Jeremy Seyfert and Aiden Carey. The Nittany Lions responded with a controversial goal less than two minutes later. Goaltender Dylan Schroeder was knocked into the goal, which then allowed the puck to go in as well. After some deliberation, the officials ruled it as a good goal, telling the Millersville bench that one of their players was the one who pushed Schroeder in. This decision was not received well, as many Millersville players and fans could be heard yelling at the referees. That goal was the last scored in the first period. The second period opened with a goal from Alden Spotts, assisted by Aiden Stromberg. A few minutes later, Cole McCulley scored with an assist from Pedicone. This goal marked Pedicone’s 100th career point.  “It was cool. Definitely something I’ve tried to hit later on this season. It’s a good way to end Senior Night and the last four years here,” Pedicone shared.  A few minutes later, Penn State Harrisburg scored, bringing the score to 3-2 to end the second.  Less than a minute into the third period, Pedicone scored, assisted by his brother Jake Pedicone. About three and a half minutes later, McCulley scored a power-play goal with assists from Joe Pedicone and Ben Bell. This would be the last goal of the game, bringing the final score to 5-2.  “It’s been a magical four years with these boys,” Schroeder shared post-game. “I’ve had a great time. Yeah, I couldn’t have asked for anything better. Especially with it ending with a win. It was great.” The day after the game, Millersville D2 Ice Hockey took to Instagram to congratulate Schroeder on having the highest career Save Percentage in Millersville Ice Hockey History. “With a career Save Percentage of .922 in 40 total games played, Dylan Schroeder now holds the highest Save Percentage in Millersville Ice Hockey History,” they shared. “Over his career he has amounted a total record of 29-10-1.” With the end of the regular season comes a new challenge for the Marauders as they head into playoffs. They have earned a bye for the first round, which takes place on Friday. Saturday, they will play the lowest remaining seed at the Class of 1923 Arena at 12:10 p.m. If they win, they go on to play the winner of the West Chester vs. highest remaining seed game on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. The winner of Sunday’s game is the winner of the Colonial Cup.  “Man, I’m so ready. I’m so ready,” Schroeder shared with a smile. “Next week’s going to be the best time. We’re going to win these two games, going to come home with a ring on our finger. Get ready for next year. We’re going to have home barn in playoffs. Oh, that’s going to be great. I’m ready.” Spirits are high as the Marauders come off of this win and head into the playoffs. Players and fans alike are excited to see how the playoffs shape up and are ready to cheer on their Marauders no matter the outcome. “I just want to play,” said McCulley. “I just want to be there and win that. Win the tournament. Win it all. We’ve had two chances a […] “Millersville D2 Ice Hockey secures 5-2 Senior Night win over Penn State Harrisburg”

NFL Playoffs preview T […] “NFL Playoffs preview”

Millersville D2 Ice Hockey defeats Drexel 5-1 Millersville forward Alden Spotts takes the face off against Drexel’s Aiden Barrett. KATELYN AUTY / SNAPPER Katelyn Auty Head Copy Editor Social Media Editor Associate Sports Editor In an impressive show of skill and teamwork, Millersville D2 Ice Hockey secured a dominant 5-1 victory over Drexel Saturday night. From the start, it seemed like the game would be a tight contest. About halfway through the first, Justin Carrelli scored assisted by Alden Spotts and Elias Lountzis, giving the Marauders the lead. With a minute left in the period, Pat McDevitt put another one on the board, assisted by Joe Pedicone. The Marauders ended the period with a 2-0 lead.  Millersville controlled the puck in Drexel’s zone for most of the second period but were ultimately unable to pick their way through. The Marauder defense held off the Dragons, yet again preventing them from scoring.  Less than a minute into the third period, Drexel got their first and only goal of the game. Millersville answered a few minutes later with a goal from Jack Cranston assisted by Aiden Stromberg. Pedicone put another one on the board towards the end of the period, with assists from Cole McCulley and Connor Rysak. In a desperate attempt to get back in the game, Drexel pulled their goalie to get one more skater on the ice. This only worked to the Marauders’ advantage, however, as McDevitt scored an empty-net goal with 36 seconds left in the game, making the final score 5-1.  Millersville goalie Jackson Bell was a standout, saving 48 of the 49 shots he faced throughout the game.  “I thought I saw the puck really well today,” said Bell. “I think the defense was really great in front of me, and not a lot of neutral zone turnovers, and not in the offensive zone either. So I think we’re putting ourselves in a really good position headed into the break and heading into the next semester.” Millersville will faceoff against the University of Pennsylvania away on Friday, Dec. 6 at 10 p.m., then will play them at home on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 4:25 p.m. “I think [this game] is a good building block,” McDevitt shared. “We’re obviously a lot stronger team than Drexel in our eyes, and it’s a good step for next weekend against […] “Millersville D2 Ice Hockey defeats Drexel 5-1”