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The news site of Robert Morris University

RMU Sentry Media

The news site of Robert Morris University

RMU Sentry Media

All content by Mike Funyak

[Video] Business Week Update | February 23, 2015

Mike Funyak February 23, 2015

Mike Funyak updates us on Business Week 2015. Check out the full story here.

Business Week returns to RMU

Business Week returns to RMU

Mike Funyak, Reporter February 18, 2015

With Business Week quickly approaching, Robert Morris University and the School of Business are busy finalizing plans for the second annual event.  Last year's inaugural event was themed, “Setting Sail: Charting Your Own Course,” but this year’s...

Consol Energy Center, Home of the Pittsburgh Penguins

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Born in an Igloo Part II

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 16, 2015

When future Hockey Hall of Fame broadcaster Mike Lange joined the Pittsburgh Penguins organization in 1975, it seemed as if the team had found instant success. Beginning in the mid 1970s, the club became known for having some of the top players in...

Robert Morris ends PSU series on high note

Robert Morris ends PSU series on high note

Mike Funyak and Mike Funyak December 6, 2014

The Robert Morris women’s hockey team took on Penn State in a weekend series at the 84 Lumber Arena Friday and Saturday night. The club fell 5-0 in the contest on Friday night.  Coming into the home series, the Colonials had gone 8-0-0 against the...

Logo courtesy of United States Steel Corporation

‘Round about Pittsburgh: U.S. Steel To Build New Headquarters

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 26, 2014

After rumors circulated about a possible city relocation or that the company was eying the former Civic Arena site, U.S. Steel, the Pittsburgh Penguins, and the City of Pittsburgh have confirmed U.S. Steel will remain in Pittsburgh. The announcement...

Logo Courtesy of the General Electric Company

‘Round about Pittsburgh: GE To Build Facility In Findlay Township

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 19, 2014

On November 12, General Electric (NYSE: GE) announced plans to build a new advanced manufacturing facility in nearby Findlay Township. Construction for the facility, which will cost $32 million, is set to begin in March 2015 and will be completed in...

Logo Courtesy of Koppers Holding Inc.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Koppers Names New President & CEO

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 14, 2014

Koppers Holding Inc., headquartered in Downtown Pittsburgh, announced on Friday November 1 that the company has appointed Leroy Ball, President and CEO January 1, 2015 succeeding current President and CEO Walt Turner. Walt Turner was elected President...

Mr. Twilight Zone

Mike Funyak, Lifestyles Contributor November 7, 2014

Renowned television writer, producer, host, narrator, and creator of the classic science fiction show, The Twilight Zone, Rod Serling once said he only wanted to be remembered as a writer. Before his death in 1975, Serling became known as a creative genius...

For more Information on Chiller Theatre  & "Chilly Billy" check out http://www.chillertheatermemories.com

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Chiller Theater

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 5, 2014

From 1963 to 1983, Channel 11 in Pittsburgh, then WIIC, aired a Saturday night program entitled “Chiller Theater.” Hosted by Billy Cardille, known as “Chilly Billy,” the show became so popular in the Pittsburgh market that it kept NBC’s Saturday...

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Mysteries of the Unknown

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer October 28, 2014

October means one thing to most people: Halloween is coming soon. Many people look forward to the various events that occur on or around Halloween. Whether it is preparing a costume for Halloween night, a party, decorating houses, or even visiting local...

Catholic Campus Ministry growing in numbers

Mike Funyak, Staff Reporter October 5, 2014

Over the last few school years, RMU Catholic Campus Ministry has seen great growth. Catholic Campus Minister Gary Slifkey, who is in his fifth year at Robert Morris, has seen the numbers grow from about five students to over 40. “I came that April...

Oasis lives forever

Mike Funyak, Staff Reporter October 1, 2014

2014 marks the 20th anniversary for the debut of the album ‘Definitely Maybe’ by British band Oasis. To mark the anniversary, the group has released a deluxe re-mastered edition of the album, which includes much more than the original album. Along...

RMU softball taking strides to better Pittsburgh area

RMU softball taking strides to better Pittsburgh area

Mike Funyak, Staff Reporter September 17, 2014

The Robert Morris softball team is seeking donations for a new nonprofit organization, No Roof Knapsacks.  Founded by senior softball player Sam Santillo and her mother, the nonprofit organization takes old or new backpacks and fills them with non-perishable...

‘Round about Pittsburgh: It Was 50 Years Ago!

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer September 15, 2014

September 14, 2014 marks the 50th anniversary of The Beatles only performance in Pittsburgh. On September 14, 1964, The Beatles performed at the now gone Civic Arena to an audience of 12,603. There are many interesting stories about when The Beatles...

Logo courtesy of H.J. Heinz Company

‘Round about Pittsburgh: History Center Opens New Heinz Exhibit

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer September 8, 2014

On September 6, the Senator John Heinz History Center, located on the edge of Pittsburgh’s Strip District, opened its newest long-term exhibit showcasing the legacy of Henry John Heinz and the Heinz Company. Throughout the new display, history...

Heinz History Exhibit

Mike Funyak September 7, 2014

Bobby Mania.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Our Claim to Fame

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer September 3, 2014

This edition of ‘Round about Pittsburgh takes us away from the city of Pittsburgh and highlights two suburban towns. Our first stop is the town of New Castle. Once a major player in America’s railroad and industrial history, New Castle is still...

Logo Courtesy of Koppers Holding Inc.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Long-Term Growth continues at Koppers

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer August 21, 2014

Koppers Holding Inc., most commonly known as Koppers, recently completed a $494 million acquisition of the wood preservation and railroad services business of Osmose Holdings, Inc. PNC Financial Services, another business headquartered in Pittsburgh...

'Round About Pittsburgh: Legends of Terror come from Beaver

‘Round About Pittsburgh: Legends of Terror come from Beaver

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer August 18, 2014

From 1919 to 1932, Beaver County resident Harry Traver was the world’s largest producer of amusement park rides. According to Richard Munch who wrote a book on Traver entitled Harry G. Traver: Legend of Terror, the Traver Engineering Company, located...

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Former mayor Masloff passes away

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer August 18, 2014

Pittsburgh icon and former mayor Sophie Masloff passed away August 17 at the age of 96. Masloff, who was the 56th Mayor of Pittsburgh, was the first woman and Jewish mayor of the city. Over her career, Masloff was a county government secretary, a minute...

'Round about Pittsburgh: A museum of the Gilded Age

‘Round about Pittsburgh: A museum of the Gilded Age

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer August 5, 2014

Located in what is considered Pittsburgh’s Point Breeze neighborhood is The Frick Art & Historical Center. The property is the home to Henry Clay Frick’s former estate and consists of Clayton (the Frick mansion), the Frick Art Museum, the Car...

'Round about Pittsburgh: Kennywood’s Thunderbolt receives top honor

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Kennywood’s Thunderbolt receives top honor

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer July 28, 2014

The American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) officially dedicated the Thunderbolt roller coaster at Kennywood an ACE Roller Coaster Landmark on July 27. ACE previously named the Jack Rabbit and Racer as a Coaster Landmark in 2010. Kennywood is now the only...

Video games of the 90s: What’s your memory?

Mike Funyak, Lifestyles Contributor July 9, 2014

Video games of the 1990s have become symbols and trademarks of the time.  In a world when most households only started to have computers, video games of the 1990s pushed innovation, technology, and fun for everyone. The 1990s marked the push for innovation...

Paul McCartney Rocks The Burgh

Paul McCartney Rocks The Burgh

Mike Funyak, Lifestyles Contributor July 9, 2014

It has been 50 years since the Beatles performed at the former Civic Arena.  For many Beatle or Paul McCartney fans, it was feared Sir Paul would never return to Pittsburgh, until 2010 when he played two concerts to open the then new Consol Energy Center. Pittsburgh...

PNC Park has been the 'Home' of the Pittsburgh Pirates since 2001.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Pirates Insider

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer April 23, 2014

Since 1887, the Pittsburgh Pirates have called the city of Pittsburgh home.  With any sports franchise that has a celebrated history and tradition, numerous feats were most likely accomplished over the years.  With the recent passing of Pirate legend...

Neville Island is home to the RMU Island Sport Center.  The RMU Men & Women's Ice Hockey teams play their homes at the complex.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: An Island In Pittsburgh

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer April 11, 2014

Too much surprise, islands exist within western Pennsylvania.  These islands exist within the three rivers that Pittsburgh is known for.  The most popular island is Neville Island, which is located west of Pittsburgh in the middle of the Ohio River. ...

The predecessor of Kennywood's Thunderbolt, The Pippin (pictured here in the late 1950s/ early1960s) featured the same trains the Thunderbolt currently utilizes.  2014 will mark the return of the train headlights.  The center will feature a new light with a glowing Thunderbolt 'T'.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: 2014 Kennywood Preview

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer March 21, 2014

Although summer is not for a while for most schools and colleges, Pittsburgh’s famed Kennywood Park is hard at work preparing for the upcoming 2014 summer season.  Although the local amusement park may not be introducing a new ride or attraction, that...

Ed Vettel Sr. (Right) & Ed Vettel Jr. (Left) discuss a roller coaster model & design.  Both Father & Son worked at Pittsburgh's West View Park.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Roller Coasters Run In The Family

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer March 18, 2014

Just prior to the start of the 20th century, brothers Erwin and Edward Vettel began working on projects for Pittsburgher T.M. Harton.  Harton who owned the T.M. Harton Company designed and built various attractions including Figure Eights (early roller...

The Muppets are wanted again: "Muppets Most Wanted" review

The Muppets are wanted again: “Muppets Most Wanted” review

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer March 17, 2014

It has been ten years since the Walt Disney Company purchased the Muppets from the Jim Henson Company.  And with Disney celebrating a ten-year anniversary of owning the Muppets, it is only fitting that the Muppets are wanted by a new generation. Muppets...

'Round about Pittsburgh: Changes continue at Heinz

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Changes continue at Heinz

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer March 3, 2014

On February 27 and 28, Pittsburgh based H.J. Heinz Company announced the closure of two plants in Europe and the selling and closure of a factory in Canada. Since becoming a private company, Heinz has taken steps in becoming a more efficient, sustainable,...

Son of Jim Henson passes away

Son of Jim Henson passes away

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 20, 2014

The Henson name is well known in Hollywood but sometimes not known to people on the outside.  In the late 1950s, Jim Henson and his soon to be wife Jane started performing puppetry on a show they created entitled ‘Sam and Friends.’  It was on this...

Business Week is coming to RMU

Business Week is coming to RMU

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 19, 2014

Robert Morris University and the School of Business is proud to announce the hosting of the inaugural Business Week running through Feb. 24-27, 2014.  The week is designed to help students prepare for their future careers in business.  Many events and...

The Beatles are coming

The Beatles are coming

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 12, 2014

Five years after the death of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson (The Day the Music Died), and not even a full year after the assassination of President John Kennedy, four British gentleman would change the mood of the...

Even in pop culture, the psychedelic genre lives on.

1967 – A New Wave of Sound

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 2, 2014

The year was 1967, the term psychedelic had become common and music was evolving once again.  The year also brought what is now known as ‘The Summer of Love’ in California. The psychedelic genre began in 1966 and in 1967, the music went mainstream. ...

Giant Eagle Advantage Cards will soon appear in Indianapolis.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Giant Eagle to Expand Market

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer January 31, 2014

Giant Eagle, a Pittsburgh based and regional grocery store announced last week of plans to expand into the Indianapolis market. According to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Giant Eagle has signed an agreement to build and open a Market District grocery...

'Round about Pittsburgh: American Airlines Shake Up

‘Round about Pittsburgh: American Airlines Shake Up

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer January 26, 2014

According to local news sources the new American Airlines, which recently merged with U.S. Airlines has decided to close the local Moon Township flight operation center.  According to various news sources, the closure and eventual move of the center...

Consol Energy Center, Home of the Pittsburgh Penguins

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Born in an Igloo

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer January 21, 2014

In a city that used to be dominated by football, Pittsburgh has finally become a hockey town.  The city has been home to a National Hockey League (NHL) team since 1967. The Pittsburgh Penguins joined the NHL with the California Seals, Los Angeles...

Pittsburgh Hornets sign located at the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum inside the Senator John Heinz History Center.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh Hornets Revisited

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer January 8, 2014

Pittsburgh has been the home of a National Hockey League (NHL) team since 1967.  The Pittsburgh Penguins joined the NHL with the California Seals, Los Angeles Kings, Minnesota North Stars, Philadelphia Flyers, and St. Louis Blues in 1967 as an expansion...

The Story of Saving Mr. Banks

The Story of Saving Mr. Banks

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer January 2, 2014

“Saving Mr. Banks,” released in December 2013 tells the untold story of the making Walt Disney Pictures classic, Mary Poppins.  Staring Emma Thompson and Tom Hanks, the film focuses around the controversy between author P.L. Travers and Walt Disney...

'Round about Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh Holiday Special

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh Holiday Special

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer December 20, 2013

The Christmas and Holiday Season in Pittsburgh is unique just like numerous other cities and towns.  It is a season when the city of Pittsburgh and numerous destinations seem to capture magic that is the air. Below is a short list and description...

Visit www.fortpittblockhouse.com for more information regarding the Fort Pitt Block House and its 250 anniversary celebration.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Fort Pitt Block House turns 250

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer December 9, 2013

Pittsburgh is known as the Golden Triangle because of the land the city sits on.  It is at the famous ‘Point’ where travelers coming out of the Fort Pitt Tunnel see the signature fountain, the city skyline, and two rivers that meet to form one. The...

Gus Krop's time at RMU

Gus Krop’s time at RMU

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer December 3, 2013

You may call it the John Jay Gym, but the correct name is actually the Gus Krop Gym. Today, the gym is utilized for RMU intramural sports and other events but years ago; the gym was the site of numerous basketball games and RMU victories under the guidance...

Portrait of Andrew Carnegie

Photo courtesy of www.carnegielibrary.org

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Steel Titan Andrew Carnegie

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 22, 2013

Love him or hate him, Andrew Carnegie was a pioneer who help shaped the modern day United States. The Carnegie family immigrated to Pittsburgh from Scotland in 1848.  At a young age Andrew Carnegie was a worker who searched for the best but also the...

Visit www.thebeatles.com for more information

The Beatles launch new album

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 19, 2013

The Beatles have released a new album with previously unreleased tracks. The newly released album is entitled "On Air – Live at the BBC Volume 2." The tracks consist of songs and dialogue The Beatles recorded at England’s BBC from 1963- 1965. In...

New grant helps expand specialized nursing program

New grant helps expand specialized nursing program

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 18, 2013

Two weeks ago, RMU announced the expansion of a specialized nursing program with the help and partnership of Heritage Valley Health System and a federal grant of $923,000. The three year grant, worth close to $1 million, will enable RMU to expand its...

George Westinghouse

‘Round about Pittsburgh: W stands for Westinghouse

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 15, 2013

The name Westinghouse is known worldwide.  Founder of 60 different companies, George Westinghouse, was an entrepreneur who became a pioneer in the manufacturing and technology field starting in the 1800s. The name Westinghouse is still around, but...

Night of Living Dead poster from cinemasterpieces.com

‘Round about Pittsburgh: The Night of the Living Dead

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 7, 2013

In 1968, Carneige Mellon University graduate George Romero, along with two friends John Russo and Russell Streiner, put Pittsburgh on the map as the setting for a soon to be cult classic film Night of the Living Dead. “Up through 1967, zombies were...

SAM makes way onto RMU student organization scene

SAM makes way onto RMU student organization scene

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 6, 2013

SAM (Society of the Advancement of Management) is a fairly new organization to the campus of Robert Morris.  Although the organization is relatively new, the country and college-wide organization has been in existence since 1912.  The Society of the...

Logo courtesy of United States Steel Corporation

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Shakeup up U.S. Steel

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 5, 2013

In an effort to save costs, U.S. Steel Corp. announced early last week the closure of the company’s Hamilton Works in Hamilton, Ontario by the end of the year.  The company will be shutting down the iron and steelmaking operations at the mill.  The...

'Round about Pittsburgh: What's In The Name Clark

‘Round about Pittsburgh: What’s In The Name Clark

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer October 27, 2013

Founded in 1886, the D.L. Clark Company would soon become a staple in Pittsburgh.  Founded by entrepreneur David L. Clark, the company flourished into a successful candy business. Starting in 1917, the infamous ‘Clark’ was introduced.  The ‘Clark’...

Flashing back to RMU 50 years ago

Flashing back to RMU 50 years ago

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer October 16, 2013

The current 2013 Fall Semester is a milestone for Robert Morris University.  What is now the main 230-acre campus for RMU opened fifty years ago this fall.  Prior to 1963, RMU had changed its name from Robert Morris School of Business to Robert Morris...

Fleetwood Mac: “Then Play On” (Deluxe Edition)

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer October 3, 2013

Originally released in 1969, “Then Play On” was Fleetwood Mac’s third studio album and their debut with what would become a long relationship with the label Warner/Reprise. The album marked a change in the band; founder Peter Green would depart...

PNC Park has been the 'Home' of the Pittsburgh Pirates since 2001.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: The Pittsburgh Pirates

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer October 2, 2013

The number 21 has a few different meanings for Pittsburgh Pirate fans.  The number may represent how many years it took the team to clinch their next first winning season and playoff birth and win, or it may represent a man.  The man that represents...

Logo Courtesy of PPG Industries

‘Round about Pittsburgh: PPG Stays Loyal to Pittsburgh Region

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer September 24, 2013

On September 23, 2013, Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett and PPG Industries announced a major move that will add more then 300 jobs to the Pittsburgh region.  PPG Industries will be establishing its North American Architectural Coatings headquarters...

The Gulf Tower (far left) is shown with the weather beacon.  The building with the UPMC logo at the far right of the picture is the U.S. Steel Tower.  Logo courtesy of Gulf Oil LP

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Gulf, Not Golf

Mike Funyak, Staf Writer September 11, 2013

Pittsburgh was once a city that boosted an empire of all sorts of businesses.  The Mellon Family, who in their own rights started an empire, established some of these businesses. After numerous successful business ventures the Mellon Family decided...

For More Information, please visit www.paulmccartney.com

Wings Fly Again

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer September 7, 2013

Remastered for your listening pleasure and released in May 2013, Wings 1976 live album ‘Wings Over America.’ Wings formed in 1971 by Paul McCartney and Denny Laine after the members of The Beatles went their separate ways. The album was released...

Logo courtesy of United States Steel Corporation

‘Round about Pittsburgh: U.S. Steel introduces new CEO

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer September 4, 2013

As we recently changed our calendars to September, United States Steel Corporation introduced a new Chief Executive Officer or CEO.  The company announced in August that current CEO John P. Surma, would retire at the end of the calendar year.  Surma...

Former logo of Mellon Financial Corporation

‘Round about Pittsburgh: The Name is Mellon

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer August 29, 2013

Founded in 1869 by Thomas Mellon and his two sons Andrew and Richard, Mellon Bank and the Mellon name became a Pittsburgh institution.  First known as T. Mellon & Sons’ Bank, the first bank was located on Smithfield Street in downtown Pittsburgh. At...

Logo courtesy of WQED Pittsburgh

‘Round about Pittsburgh: WQED “The Channel that Changes Lives”

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer August 26, 2013

‘Changes Lives,’ is the slogan of local public broadcasting channel WQED Pittsburgh.  WQED was the nation’s first, yes first community supported television station.  WQED was founded in 1954 and first aired on April 1, of that year.  The station...

Courtesy of BNY Mellon

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Berkshire Hathaway Increases Stake in BNY Mellon

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer August 22, 2013

Warren Buffett, who is considered one of the most influential and successful investors (in the world), has decided to purchase more stake in Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (BNY Mellon). Pittsburgh Business Times reported back in May, Buffett’s...

Frederick Ingersoll was an early innovator in the Amusement Park Industry.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Local Man Revolutionizes Amusement Park Industry

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer August 20, 2013

Many people are probably not familiar with the name Frederick Ingersoll, but might know the name Six Flags.  Pittsburgh native, Frederick Ingersoll was the first man who created the first chain of amusement parks, entitled Luna Park. At the turn of...

The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum located in Washington County is celebrating 50 years.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Enjoy Your Ride of a Bygone Era

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer July 24, 2013

Located outside the city of Pittsburgh in Washington County is a museum that has preserved a unique experience for 50 years.  The Pennsylvania Trolley Museum states a visit is “More than a ride…it’s an Experience!” After a recent trip to the...

Celebrating 75 years is the Conneaut Lake Park 'Blue Streak.' The ride is considered a Roller Coaster Classic and Landmark by the American Coaster Enthusiasts.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Coaster Landmark Turns 75

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer July 16, 2013

Although not located in Pittsburgh, a historic structure outside of the area is celebrating an important birthday.  Celebrating 75 years this summer is the Conneaut Lake Park Blue Streak.  The roller coaster opened at near by Conneaut Lake Park in the...

“Out of the Furnace,” film has Western PA roots

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer May 2, 2013

Hollywood has returned to the city of Pittsburgh and so has Batman. Well, at least the actor who portrayed Batman From the Batman Trilogy, Christian Bale, returned to Western Pennsylvania to star in a new film titled, "Out of the Furnace." Forest...

The Thunderbolt opened at Kennywood Park in 1968.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Kennywood, a Pittsburgh tradition

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer April 25, 2013

Local amusement park Kennywood has been a Pittsburgh tradition since 1898.  Originally started as a destination point for streetcar riders on the weekends, Kennywood was started by the Monongahela Street Railway Company.  Andrew Mellon, the majority...

Reflecting on RMU’s Spring Career Fair

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer April 22, 2013

On Tuesday April 9, 2013, Robert Morris University hosted its annual Spring Career Fair at the Sewall Center.  Numerous businesses were on hand to offer potential job opportunities to qualified candidates.  A number of RMU alumni and current students...

Logo Courtesy of EQT Corporation

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Changes to be made at EQT

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer April 17, 2013

Changes to EQT Corporation business operations will go into effect later this year.  EQT Corporation and People’s Natural Gas announced on December 20, 2012, an agreement had been reached for People’s Natural Gas to purchase EQT subsidiary Equitable...

Disney embedded in pop culture

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer April 9, 2013

On the evening of Thursday April 4, 2013 at 7:30 in the lower level of Salem Hall, students gathered for a unique discussion- Disney princesses in pop culture.  Leading the discussion was John Locke, Director of Student Activities and Leadership Development...

The roofs on certain buildings on campus showcase J&L Steel.  This plaque is located in the Nicholson Center near Romo's Cafe.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: The Legacy of J&L Steel

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer April 3, 2013

Even with most of the steel industry gone, Pittsburgh is still known as the Steel City.  When people think Pittsburgh & steel, they might think of the Steelers or steel workers.  People may also think of Pittsburgher Andrew Carnegie, who revolutionized...

'Round about Pittsburgh: Amtrak Service to Stay

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Amtrak Service to Stay

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer March 27, 2013

Pennsylvania Governor, Tom Corbett, his administration, and Amtrak have reached a deal to keep daily Pittsburgh to Harrisburg passenger train service. Daily passenger train service from Pittsburgh to Harrisburg was in jeopardy due to state maintaining...

'Round about Pittsburgh: A Pittsburgh Special

‘Round about Pittsburgh: A Pittsburgh Special

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer March 22, 2013

This is a special for ‘Round about Pittsburgh.  Every city has interesting history and facts, and without a doubt, Pittsburgh is one of these cities.  The following information is a list compiled of interesting facts about Pittsburgh history.   The...

Westinghouse World Headquarters located in Cranberry

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Westinghouse Nuclear Moves Forward

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer March 14, 2013

Westinghouse Electric Company announced on March 11, 2013; the completion of the first concrete pour at their AP1000 nuclear facility under construction in South Carolina. The next day Westinghouse announced the company signed an agreement with The...

Local Jazz Lengend Mr. Harold Betters

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Harold Betters – A Pittsburgh Legend

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer March 2, 2013

Harold Betters or as some Pittsburghers call him, Mr. Trombone is one of many jazz musicians to have grown up in the Pittsburgh region.  Originally from Connellsville, Pennsylvania Harold Betters quickly became a Pittsburgh Legend among the city’s...

'Round about Pittsburgh: Schenley High Sold

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Schenley High Sold

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 28, 2013

A former High School in the Pittsburgh Public School District has been sold.  Built in 1916 in North Oakland, Schenely High School was named after Pittsburgh philanthropist Mary Schenley, who donated the land the school, was built on. Edward Stotz...

'Round about Pittsburgh: Horne's & Kaufmann's

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Horne’s & Kaufmann’s

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 26, 2013

Horne’s and Kaufmann’s department stores that once graced downtown Pittsburgh for over 100 years might be gone but will always be remembered.  Both department stores had numerous locations around the city but remained headquartered in Pittsburgh...

'Round about Pittsburgh: I Scream for Ice Cream

‘Round about Pittsburgh: I Scream for Ice Cream

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 20, 2013

Known for the legendary Skyscraper ice cream cones, Klondikes, and Chipped Ham, the name Isaly’s was once well known throughout Ohio and western Pennsylvania.  With headquarters in Youngstown Ohio and Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, Islay’s was the first...

Logo Courtesy of PNC Financial Services Group Inc.

‘Round about Pittsburgh: PNC CEO To Step Down

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 17, 2013

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc, better known as PNC, announced February 14, 2013 current President William Demchak, will succeed current chief executive officer (CEO) James Rohr effective April 23, 2013. James Rohr will step down as chief executive...

'Round about Pittsburgh: Alcoa Celebrating 125 Years

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Alcoa Celebrating 125 Years

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 15, 2013

Alcoa, a Pittsburgh institution, is celebrating 125 years in 2013.  On October 1, 1888, Alcoa was first incorporated as the Pittsburgh Reduction Company.  The company was established by the technology advancements of co-founder Charles Martin Hall. The...

Logo courtesy of H.J. Heinz Company

‘Round About Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh icon sold

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 14, 2013

Surprising news came out of the H.J. Heinz Company today, as Heinz board of directors have endorsed Berkshire Hathaway and 3G Capital in an agreement for the two investment groups to acquire the company for a valued $28 billion.  Under the terms of the...

Photo taken at the Senator John Heinz History Center

‘Round about Pittsburgh: H.J. Heinz “57 Varieties”

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 12, 2013

When thinking ketchup, Heinz Ketchup has to be one of the first that comes to mind.  Founded by entrepreneur Henry John Heinz (H.J. Heinz) in Sharpsburg 1869, the H.J. Heinz Company has become an icon in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania.  The slogan 57 Varieties...

The Beach Boys win first Grammy

The Beach Boys win first Grammy

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 11, 2013

The Beach Boys have finally won a Grammy- well, sort of.  Believe it or not, the group has never won a Grammy in a nominated category.  However, the group did win a Lifetime Achievement Grammy in 2001. The Beach Boys have been unsuccessful in nomination...

'Round about Pittsburgh: Public companies in Pittsburgh

‘Round about Pittsburgh: Public companies in Pittsburgh

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 10, 2013

Public held companies headquartered in Pittsburgh How well do you know the companies based out of the Pittsburgh region?  How many publicly traded Pittsburgh based companies on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) or NASDAQ can you name or list?  The...

Which one is pink?

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 6, 2013

The man behind the name and the climb to fame of the rock group Pink Floyd belongs to founder and former frontman, Syd Barrett. The group was formed in 1964 as The Pink Floyd Sound and the band quickly became notorious in the London music scene.  Pete...

50 years of Good Vibrations

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 21, 2012

The year 2012 marked the 50th anniversary for the group nicknamed “America’s Band,” The Beach Boys.  With the group's infamous SMiLE album finally released in 2011, rumors began that the surviving members were planning a 50th anniversary tour. In...

Star Wars Round Table

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 17, 2012

On Tuesday Night at 9:00 in the Wheatley Center, a group of about twenty students gathered to talk about a cult classic film series, Star Wars.  Also in attendance were Ian Howitt, a film scholar from Penn State and Josh Antoon, a local actor in the...

A change in times

A change in times

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer November 5, 2012

When class schedules for the spring semester of 2013 were released on the early morning of Oct. 22, students discovered not only who would be teaching certain classes, but also that class times have changed. For the last three semesters, Robert Morris...

Idlewild honored as oldest amusement park in Pa

Idlewild honored as oldest amusement park in Pa

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer October 20, 2012

On a cold, rainy Saturday, Oct. 6 morning, a small and historical presentation occurred at Idlewild & Soak Zone located in Ligonier, Pennsylvania.  Drivers who pass by Idlewild on Lincoln Highway aren’t able to see much of the park other than parking...

Career expo gives students a taste of respective industries

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer October 13, 2012

On Tuesday October 2, current and alumni students of Robert Morris had the chance to check out the 95 employers who participated in this years Career Expo.  Upon entering the Sewall Center, students and alumni took the opportunity to talk to employers...

Fire alarms sound in Nicholson Center

Fire alarms sound in Nicholson Center

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer September 27, 2012

In the middle of dinner, this evening, students and Parkhurst employees were evacuated from Nicholson Center.  Calls to the Barry Center were sent around 5:10 PM.  Both students and employees were frustrated and confused by what was occurring. Some...

Distinct guest comes to RMU

Distinct guest comes to RMU

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer September 21, 2012

On September 14, 2012 the Vice President & Business Line Executive System of IBM, Mr. Greg Lotko was on campus, speaking to students in the new SCIS building.  IBM is a company that is dedicated strictly to technology and working with computers. ...

Birthplace of broadcasting

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer September 4, 2012

Believe it or not, Pittsburgh is the birthplace of broadcasting. It was started by Frank Conrad in his red brick garage at his Wilkinsburg residence.  Conrad’s work soon evolved into Pittsburgh’s KDKA in 1920.  Conrad was one of Westinghouse Electric’s...

Updates on the Wayne Center construction

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer May 2, 2012

Director of Planning and Design of Robert Morris University (RMU) Bill Joyce offers updates to those wondering about the construction site at the Wayne Center.   “As soon as RMU completed the agreement to sell the downtown building to Duquesne University,...

RMU – Changing lives one at a time

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer April 29, 2012

Here, our motto is that attending RMU is life changing, and in only my second semester, I can say RMU has changed my life. I was always one of those kids who disliked going to school, but at RMU, I can say I enjoy school.  The university’s six core...

A day in the Life:  RMU Live Sports

A day in the Life: RMU Live Sports

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer March 19, 2012

After working three games of hockey on March Friday 2nd 2012 for RMU Live Sport Productions, I realized for the first time, university history would be made. On Saturday March 3rd, the RMU Women’s Hockey team would be facing Mercyhurst University...

He’s from Pittsburgh

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 29, 2012

Batman, one of the famous comic super heroes, and has been around since 1939. Since then, many comics, cartoons, series, and films have been released. From 1966-1968, ABC produced a television show, Batman, starring Adam West and Burt Ward. Throughout...

Uniform on display at the Senator John Heinz History Center

Pittsburgh History: Pittsburgh Crawfords & Homestead Grays

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 16, 2012

Without a doubt, baseball historians will tell you that the city of Pittsburgh has a rich history with the Pirates.  What you might not know is that Pittsburgh had two other baseball teams along with the Pirates at one point in time. Historians will...

Entrance Sign at the West View Park Shopping Center.

Pittsburgh’s lost Amusement Park: West View Park

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer February 10, 2012

In 1906, Theodore Harton decided he would open up his own amusement park.  Harton was already known throughout the amusement park industry because his company, the T.M Harton Company had installed many roller coasters and carousels in numerous parks. Along...

Pittsburgh’s lost Amusement Park: White Swan Park

Mike Funyak, Staff writer February 7, 2012

From 1955 to 1989, a small amusement park known as White Swan Park straddled Moon and Findlay Townships.  Although the park was small in size and known as a kiddie park, White Swan had great business. The park was shut down when the Pennsylvania Department...

Change for better or worse?

Change for better or worse?

Mike Funyak, Staff Writer January 30, 2012

In returning to campus after winter break, students noticed changes in the Nicholson Food Court. For the 2012 spring semester, the popular Crowd Pleasers has been moved and merged with the Parkside Diner. This open spot enabled the Mexican and ethic foods...

Pittsburgh History: George was here

Pittsburgh History: George was here

MIKE FUNYAK, Staff Writer January 28, 2012

Located in the town of Wilmerding, a large building stands proudly. The building, which was formally called the General Office Building, is now known as the George Westinghouse Castle or just 'The Castle'. The building was initially built in 1890 and...