March 11th Edition of The Merciad

Merciad THE

MERCYHURST UNIVERSIT Y

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News ................2-5 Features...........6-9 A&E ............. 10-11 Opinion........ 12-13 Sports ......... 14-15 Laker Living ......16

W E D N E S DAY, M A RC H 1 1 , 2 0 2 0

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VOL. 93 NO. 13

MU Serves Over Spring Break PAGE 7

Online poll results We asked: What is the worst household chore to do?

4: MSG hosts Hamilton star

10: Kathy Soroka faculty recital 15: Softball spends Spring Break in Florida

Cleaning the bathroom (52%) Washing the dishes (33%) Washing/folding laundry (10%)

Dusting and sweeping (5%)

This week’s

POLL

Which instrument do you like the most?

merciad.mercyhurst.edu

NEWS

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Wednesday, March 11, 2020

MU to house Intel Hall of Fame

By Marina Boyle

Managing editor

In an exciting new development for both Lakers and the Intelligence Community, Mercyhurst University has been tapped to house the U.S. Intelligence Community Hall of Fame.

Orlandrew Danzell, Ph. D. chair of the Intelligence Studies Department, said being selected as the host location for the Hall of Fame is a true honor.

“The rationale for placing the Hall of Fame here is our prestige and legacy as one of the best applied intelligence programs in the nation.”

Feb. 25 saw the Hall of Fame Alumni Reception and Kickoff take place in Washington D.C. The kickoff was hosted by Mercyhurst in partnership with the Intelligence and National Security Alliance (INSA) and the Intelligence and National Security Foundation.

The event was hosted at the National Press Club, where former Secretary of Homeland Security and former Governor Tom Ridge was in attendance with senior leaders from both INSA and Mercyhurst.

The Honorable James Clapper, former director of National Intelligence; General Michael Hayden, former director of the CIA and the National Security Agency (NSA); the Honorable Richard Kerr, former deputy director of the CIA; Major General Jim Keffer, former chief of staff for U.S. Cyber Command; the Honorable Arthur Money, former assistant secretary of Defense; and Admiral William

Contributed Photo

Attendees at the event included Mercyhurst leaders and the most highly ranking members of the Intelligence Community.

Studeman, former deputy director of the CIA, NSA and Naval Intelligence were all in attendance.

The kickoff unveiled plans for the nation’s first Hall of Fame to honor INSA William Oliver Baker recipients. Since 1984, the William Oliver Baker distinction has been bestowed upon intelligence professionals who have achieved excellence or made significant contributions to the intelligence or national security communities.

Hayden, Money, Kerr, Clapper and Studeman are all former Baker Award recipients.

In addition to honoring these award recipients, the Hall of Fame will function as a teaching tool for the public. It will showcase the work of the 17 branches

of the United States Intelligence Community, each of which employs alumni from the Ridge College.

Plans call for Mercyhurst to renovate the Hammermill Library to make way for the Hall of Fame. The space will be equipped with professionally designed exhibits and high-tech programming.

Dean of the Ridge College, Duncan McGill, Ph.D., is excited about the development.

“I believe the creation of a Hall of Fame is fantastic. It allows the university that pioneered intelligence education to honor the best of the best for their service to nation. Those few selected represent hundreds of thousands of employees over

the years who quietly operated in the background, never seeking self-reward, yet kept our nation safe.”

Mercyhurst was deemed to be the perfect home because the university lays claim to the oldest and largest school of applied intelligence at a college in the United States. Mercyhurst’s Intelligence Studies program, which was founded in 1992, was known as the first non-governmental initiative of its kind in the United States.

Mercyhurst Intelligence Studies graduate Maggie Hackney ’19 was one of the lucky alumni who made it to the kickoff event.

“The US Intelligence Hall of Fame deservedly recognizes established intelligence and nation-

al security professionals whose selfless contributions have ensured our nation’s safety,” Hackney said. “Mercyhurst alumni are honored to be affiliated with INSA and the renowned William Oliver Baker award. With its INSA partnership, Mercyhurst once again expands the nexus between the national security field and academia. I look forward to all Mercyhurst and INSA will accomplish together moving forward.”

In addition, the Hall of Fame will serve as an educational resource for future Intelligence leaders.

“Our partnership with INSA demonstrates the respect the Intelligence Studies program has today within the community of professionals,” McGill said.

“One day, I believe one of our students will be a member of the Hall of Fame.”

A new individual will be awarded the Baker Award each June in Washington, D.C. Funding for this project will allow them to spend a week at Mercyhurst as a “Scholar in Residence” during their induction. They can use this time to interact with Ridge college staff and students.

“This gives us exposure with the giants of the industry,” Danzell said. “In the short term, it highlights what we do here at Mercyhurst on a national level.

In the long term, it reinforces our gold standard in intelligence education. We also get the added bonus of welcoming a well-known, nationally recognized award winner to Mercyhurst, and to Erie, each year.”

Luke’s Landing now open for activities

By Lauren Abbott Editor in chief

On Feb. 21 the Mercyhurst community celebrated the opening of the newest hangout space on campus, Luke’s Landing in the Student Union.

Located on the lower level of the Student Union next to the Roost, Luke’s Landing is a seating area with a stage and sound system.

The idea for Luke’s Landing started last year with MSG president Vince Marrazzo and came to fruition this year with renovations to the lower level of the Student Union.

“The idea was to create opportunities for live music and an area for club, weekend programs and University and Alumni events,” MSG president Abby Staub said.

The opening event featured a ribbon cutting ceremony, where Mercyhurst University President Michael T. Victor, vice president for Student Life Laura Zirkle and

Staub said.

After the ribbon cutting, attendees were treated to refreshments and a student performer, sophomore Music Therapy major Rhyan Komsthoeft, took the stage to perform.

While Komsthoeft was the first to take the stage after the opening, the space has already been in use.

“We have already hosted an open mic night and a spoken word artist. We will also have a band playing there during Family Weekend” said Student Activities Council Chair Braeden Barnett.

The space is now available for students not only as a performance space, but also as a hangout spot and for group activities.

“The hope is that this space Contributed photo continues to provide a place for MSG President Abby Staub, President Michael T. Victor, vice president for Student Life Laura Zirkle and students to share their talents Luke the Laker celebrate the opening of Luke’s Landing with a ribbon cutting ceremony. with their fellow Lakers” Staub said.

If you haven’t had a chance, complements the recently renostudents now have a fresh place Staub officially opened the space. take a trip to the Union and vated Roost and the Laker Inn. to dine, do homework, socialize “Luke’s Landing provides a new seating and stage area that With the addition of this space, with friends and host events,” check out the new space!

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

NEWS

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Erie’s empathy-inspired gallery

By Kristian Biega News editor

On March 13, Gannon University will be hosting the first-ever empathy based pop-up gallery from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in room 219 in Gannon’s Waldron Center. There will be an open mic to follow from 7 - 8 p.m. as well. The program is a collaboration between the Gannon University Social Work Club and a non-profit called Empathy Bound.

Empathy Bound is founded as a movement based on promoting advocacy, social justice and empathy in today’s world.

Katie Dickey, sophomore Social Work major at Gannon University, from Pittsburgh, PA, is co-founder of Empathy Bound.

She and a former high school teacher, Theresa Long, came together to form this non-profit over a mutual desire to spread understanding and kindness in a tangible way in their community.

The idea behind this pop-up gallery comes from one of Dickey and Long’s first inspirations for the non-profit - an empathy based pop-up museum in the UK that tells the stories of the real people behind each piece.

The Empathy Pop-Up Gallery will feature stations from the Erie community where students can create dialogue about the social issues in society today and how empathy can be made real.

Dickey was quoted in a recent article in the Erie Reader about her work. She stated that it is the work of telling others’ stories that most interests her and drives her passion for this project.

“I’m always interested in connecting with other storytellers, because that’s been my lifelong job,” said Dickey. “It’s more urgent than ever to employ our

Contributed Photo

Empathy Bound is a non-profit committed to spreading the message of empathy and advocacy by creating community dialogue.

listening and learning skills in Erie right now, when we have a tendency to measure success in revitalizing our community by counting construction permits and tallying grand investments while overlooking those who might be left behind.”

This gallery is a unique program not only for Gannon University, but for the Erie community as a whole. Senior Graphic Design major and Photography minor, Tricia Shullick is the Mercyhurst liaison for the gallery.

“It’s so enlightening to be part of such a meaningful movement.

I met Katie last year through a mutual friend and her passion for mental health and building an understanding for anyone and everyone is truly inspiring,” Shullick said.

Empathy Bound’s mission is one close to Shullick’s own passion for acceptance and advocacy. Shullick’s photography series “SurVibrance” will be featured at the gallery as a way to raise awareness about mental illness and the stories of those who

struggle with it.

“Empathy Bound is meant to open everyone’s eyes to see that, despite our differences, we are all human, and we all deserve to be treated as such. Our stories matter, our stories make up who we are,” Shullick said.

In addition to “SurVibrance,” the gallery will feature stations from the Mercy Center for Women, Gannon Center for Social Concerns, METZ Food Service, Glamorous Gutless Girls, Gannon LGBTQ+, Crime Victim Center of Erie County, Safe Harbor Behavioral Health, student/ community art submissions and more.

The founders of Empathy Bound are not charging for the gallery, but ask only for a donation of an act of empathy or kindness.

For more information on the event, visit Empathy Bound’s Facebook page or contact Tricia Shullick at pshull91@lakers.mercyhurst.edu.

Campbell receives Prophet of Peace award for Erie environmental work

By Gianluca Ianiro

Staff writer

On Feb. 13, Mercyhurst University biology professor Michael Campbell, Ph.D. was awarded the Prophet of Peace Award by the Benedictine Sisters of Erie. This award celebrates Campbell’s work in using his professional talents “for the good of creation,” as stated by the Benedictine Sisters.

Through his dedication in educating the public on environmental conservation and his personal efforts in reversing climate change, Campbell was humbled to be considered for such an award.

“It was a tremendous honor to be recognized by the Bene-

dictine Sisters of Erie with their award. Like our own Sisters of Mercy, the Benedictines are wonderful models of service as advocates for sustainability and environmental justice,” Campbell said.

In a press release by Mercyhurst University, Sister Anne Wambach praised Campbell’s work in biology as people are called to work to protect the environment, a value that their order of sisters is committed to.

“We are called to responsible management of human activity affecting the natural environment; we are called to ensure the conservation and preservation of natural resources and values for the sake of future generations of humans and all

creation,” Wambach said This statement was meant to characterize the recipient of the Prophet of Peace Award and represent the actions Campbell carried out leading up to this honor.

During his time at Mercyhurst University, Campbell has worked with countless student scientists on various different ecological and environmental preservation projects. These research projects were mainly centered around aquatic ecology and the study of harmful invasive species.

“My work in the Erie community has been facilitated and inspired by the Sisters, and I hope that my mentorship of students who have engaged in this work

with me might encourage them to use their professional talents to serve others in their future careers,” Campbell said.

The recent conservation victory over local industrial plant Erie Coke is one impressive check mark on Campbell’s growing resume and was no doubt a factor when the Benedictine Sisters decided who to honor with this award. Erie Coke was a plant that turned coal into a usable ingredient in steel manufacturing with the use of massive and extremely hot ovens. This process released a slew of different chemicals into the air and surrounding environment.

Erie Coke has been known over the past decade for violating environmental regulations

and making settlements with law enforcers as a result.

Campbell realized the problems this plant was causing to the wildlife and surrounding Erieites and decided to take action. With the help of his students and the protection organization he helped form, water, fish and most importantly air quality was evaluated.

Campbell’s work in shutting down Erie Coke was ultimately beneficial for not only the Erie community, but hopefully will be a step toward holding other large corporations accountable for their environmental actions.

Congratulations to Campbell for all of his successes and commitment to the environment!

NEWS

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Wednesday, March 11, 2020

‘Hamilton’ star encourages Merciad IN A MINUTE 100 Years of Women’s Suffrage

On March 18, Mercyhurst will be celebrating the journey of women’s suffrage in the United States with a panel entitled “Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Mercyhurst Alumnae Panel.”

The panel will feature nine female alumni who come from a variety of professional careers such as business and law. The panel will be moderated by Provost Leanne Roberts, Ph. D. The evening will begin at 7 p.m. in the Mercy Heritage Room.

Beloved Retreat

Campus Ministry will be hosting an overnight retreat at Camp Notre Dame on March 13 and 14. The theme of the retreat is the story of The Prodigal Son. The overnight stay will include talks from Mercyhurst alums, small group discussion and individual reflection time. The evening will also include opportunities for Catholic adoration and the sacrament of Confession.

Sign-ups are closing soon! Contact Michelle Scully at mscully@ mercyhurst.edu to join this weekend!

Res Life housing tours

Do you know where you want to live next year? Want to tour housing options first?

Residence Life will be offering tours of a room in: Wayne Street Apartments, Briggs/ Lewis Apartments, Duval Apartments and Ryan Hall.

Meet at Ryan Hall front desk on March 11 at 7:30 p.m. and tours will run at the half hour.

Last group will leave Ryan Hall at 8:30 p.m.

Additional Tour Dates will be March 23 and 24.

More information about times will come out as we get closer to these dates.

authenticity at MSG lecture

By Katy Vaccariello

Staff writer

Bryan Terrell Clark was the latest representative for the MSG Speaker Series, who visited Mercyhurst on Feb. 24. Bryan Terrell Clark is an actor, singer/ songwriter and co-founder of the initiative inDEFINED. The speech began interactive and playful, with his intent to keep the audience engaged. His challenge for junior Sarah Klein, Events Coordinator for MSG, was to nonchalantly read a sentence backwards during the introduction, which kicked things off in a light and airy way.

He soon turned to one of his many talents by rapping one of George Washington’s opening songs from the Broadway show “Hamilton.” Clark replaced “Hamilton’s” original Washington, Christopher Jackson after he left the tour.

Following his playful welcome, he quickly dove into the message he wanted to leave the students with. This message was “be your most authentic self.”

Clark encapsulated this by telling his life story and how it got him to where he is today.

The story began with his claim to a life of show business.

It was rooted in the support he received from his mother, an educator and avid supporter of the homeless.

Clark then turned to highlight a troublesome portion of his childhood, the drug dealing undertaken by his father. The balance of good and bad in his life forced Clark to grow up quickly.

He witnessed an unhappy home, a disappearing and addicted dad, and he took the lead on admitting something needed to change. Following this painful time, he went silent. Clark shared that he could only be heard singing in gospel choir.

The difficulties led him down a path to education. It began in a Baltimore art program, where involvement gave him a new

Kristian Biega photo

Bryan Terrell Clark discussed his career as a Broadway actor as well as his childhood struggles and finding his true passion in life.

passion.

“That passion was to be an actor, where I could play all the roles I dreamed of playing,” Clark said.

Of course, this led to a joke with the audience, considering he hated musical theater, and yet ended up starring in “Hamilton.” He did not turn around to the art until he saw the musical “Rent.”

Education was not a smooth process. He skipped college classes for auditions, and transferred colleges several times to find the perfect fit. He reminded the audience that, “just because I skipped, doesn’t mean that my grades weren’t upheld.”

Following undergrad, he journeyed to grad school, which was quite the eyeopener for Clark.

He shared that the support for applying to Ivy League schools was not there because of his race. Professors said he would be a ‘token’ student.

While applying for Yale and

NYU, Clark received several callbacks kickstarting his acting career. Rather than taking these roles right away, he pursued education.

It was attending Yale that brought the weight of this decision into focus. Clark became part of the Dwight Edgewood project, a program for middle school students to be creative and share their stories in an area where the residents were hardly safe. Before he realized, the Dwight Edgewood project had restructured Clark’s view on passion and purpose.

“We humans are the only being on earth to override our instincts with our mind. Purpose is your reason why, and I love that,” Clark said.

Shortly after finding his purpose for acting, Clark was thrown onto a new path due to the status of the economy. Unable to find steady work, music was the answer. He lived day to day until a shot arose. This shot

was working towards the role of Marvin Gaye in “Motown: The Musical.”

That is when another hardship crashed into Clark’s life.

His cousin was shot and killed moments before he was to run through “Motown’s” first performance. The most important advice he received that night was to start with his cousin’s sons in order to right the wrong that had been done.

Balancing music and acting, Clark’s life became a rush of work. A rekindled relationship with his father taught Clark yet another lesson—to keep pushing. His father went to rehab 22 times for his addiction, only to learn there was a chemical imbalance causing his issues. Although Clark was ready to give up, his father’s perseverance led Clark to attend a sixth call back for “Hamilton,” which led to his role as George Washington.

His experiences led to the creation of his initiative inDEFINED. The brand encourages the concept of being who you are inside, and being your most authentic self.

Clark left the audience with a few parting words. “Life is this journey. It’s just a road and when you feel lost, tap back into your passion.”

Clark also hosted a masterclass earlier in the day for members of the Mercyhurst Theatre Club. He gave advice in specific instances of performing and on the acting profession overall. He shared several of his favorite acting exercises with the enthusiastic group.

It was important for Clark to stick with his most authentic self. He did not allow the hardships, criticisms and pain determine who he was. Instead he tapped into his passion and found where he was meant to be and what he was meant to do.

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

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NEWS STUDENT GOVERNMENT

This weekend’s campus events

Contributed photo

Dennis Dirkmaat, Ph. D (center) was supported by many of his current and former students in receiving both of these awards from the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS).

Dirkmaat receives highest AAFS award

By Alex Trabold

Staff writer

Dennis Dirkmaat, Ph.D., Applied Forensic Science professor and Chair of the Department of Applied Forensic Sciences was recently presented two awards from the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS): the first-ever Outstanding Mentorship Award and the T. Dale Stewart Award, the highest honor offered by the Academy to a forensic anthropologist.

“It’s a pretty big deal and I’m proud of it but mainly because of the wonderful students I’ve had all these years,” Dirkmaat said. “This not only reflects the students but also the research that we do and the writings that we’ve done with the program.”

Mercyhurst’s forensic anthropology alumni rallied behind Dirkmaat when they heard the announcement from the AAFS of the institution of the Outstanding Mentorship Award.

The winner was chosen based on what students write about the successes of that individual.

Dirkmaat was honored to see the support from the students he has had over the last 28 years as a professor.

“They wrote very nice things,” Dirkmaat said. “We usually have a Mercyhurst gathering at these meetings, and I’ve had a lot of students over those 28 years, so we celebrated.”

He considers it a nice award due to it including both undergraduate and graduate students.

Dirkmaat was aware that he would receive the Outstanding Mentorship Award at the AAFS meeting, but was surprised in receiving the coveted Stewart Award.

“It was definitely a surprise, and it reflects the work I’ve done personally, but it’s mainly a bigger reflection of our program and what we’ve been able to do,” Dirkmaat said. “Maybe they said the old guy needs an award.”

The annual AAFS meeting was held in Anaheim, CA where Mercyhurst forensic scientists came together to share their expertise with others at the conference as well as support Dirkmaat’s achievements.

Four Mercyhurst faculty and 12 graduate and undergraduate students delivered presentations at the AAFS meeting as well.

According to a press release from Mercyhurst University, the Stewart Award, (formerly known as the Physical Anthropology Section Lifetime Achievement Award) “recognizes remarkable lifetime contributions to the field of forensic anthropology.” This award is not given out every year, so it is a very high honor for Dirkmaat to receive.

In the 15 years of Mercyhurst’s Masters program, 26 of those individuals have received a Ph. D. Many of Dirkmaat’s students are also leaders of their own programs, so the model here at Mercyhurst is being extended to other programs.

According to a press release from Mercyhurst University, “Dirkmaat has conducted more than 600 forensic anthropology cases, including nearly 100 field recoveries involving the processing of evidence from human death scenes, and the comprehensive forensic anthropological analysis of over 300 sets of human remains.”

He has used his expertise and the help of his students to work on recovering remains from many significant mass fatalities such as Pittsburgh’s USAir Flight 427 crash in 1994, the island of Guam (KAL Flight 801 crash in 1997) and more.

After the tragedies of September 11, 2001, Dirkmaat served as the primary scientific advisor to Somerset County Coroner Wallace Miller in the recovery and identification of victims of United Flight 9.

Dirkmaat credits Luis Cabo-Perez, Ph. D., Director of the Forensic and Bioarchaeology Laboratory, as his “righthand man” who has been part of Dirkmaat’s team since 2003.

Cabo-Perez himself finds Dirkmaat very deserving of the award, citing his influential work as why he won along with his contributions to Forensic Science.

“Along the years, I have been lucky enough to meet a few people who have been very influential in their fields,” Cabo-Perez said. “However, Dr. Dirkmaat is the only person I know who has textually changed the definition of his whole scientific field through his work.”

He sees his work in the field to be quite groundbreaking, changing the very definition of the work they do.

“He has changed the fundamental goals of the field, its methodological and conceptual framework and the materials and type of data it analyzes,” Cabo-Perez said.

Do you need some free groceries and want to have fun getting them? Look no further than the MAC/SAC Grocery Bingo this Friday, March 13! Bingo will begin at 9 p.m. in the Student Union.

Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day early with MAC/SAC’s Luck of the Laker event this Saturday, March 14 at 7 p.m. in the Student Union. Learn traditional dances, make keychains, play games and enjoy some Irish mocktails!

MERCYHURST CAMPUS

CRIME LOG

Feb. 19: Possession of controlled substance on 3900 Block of Briggs Ave. Feb. 22: Criminal Mischief in Ryan Hall.

Feb. 22: Harassment in Student Union Feb. 22: Liquor law violation in Lot #8.

FEATURES

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Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Hurst prepares for Family Weekend

By Victoria McGinty

Staff writer

With the end of the semester coming up soon, we can’t help but feel a little homesick.

However, it’s that time of year again where Campus Involvement and MAC/ SAC host the annual Family Weekend here on campus.

From March 20 to 22, family and friends of Mercyhurst students are welcome on campus where a series of activities await them.

This year, the theme of Family Weekend is games, the central theme surrounding what family game nights look like but on a university level.

In the past, themes were not always a part of Family Weekend as it used to be part of Homecoming Weekend.

In 2015 however, these festivities became two separate events at opposite ends of the semesters.

“Family Weekend is a tradition where we dedicate a weekend to

allow families to visit their students and enjoy a variety of free entertainment and really get a feel of the Mercyhurst experience. We have already exceeded the number of registered families from years past.” Braeden Barnett, SAC Chair, said.

According to Activities and Spirit coordinator Samantha Beckas, the goal is to expand family weekend.

“Family weekend could grow into a larger event that is hyper-focused on the experience of families while on campus.”

Beckas said.

“I believe the point of Family Weekend is to show our families why Hurst is Home, and the Student and Multicultural Activities Council works tirelessly throughout the weekend to make the families feel like part of our Mercyhurst family,” Beckas said.

This year, Family Weekend is jam-packed with numerous family game night-themed activities that all ages can enjoy.

To begin the events on Friday,

there is a check-in and welcoming session in the early evening followed by a game of Family Feud and food hosted in the Roost.

This is followed by a father-son magician duo in the evening in the Walker Recital Hall.

For Saturday, there is a brunch bingo game in the late morning in Ryan’s Waterford Room, an early afternoon Men’s Lacrosse game at Saxon Stadium and for the rest of the day, a game night in the Student Union and Blacklight mini-golf in the REC. Finally, for Sunday, the family weekend concludes with Brunch in the Grotto Commons.

While these are the main events for this family weekend, families and friends on campus are welcome to explore, as the bookstore and all dining locations have extended hours for families to come and enjoy.

Additionally, even if students do not have family and friends visiting, they are welcome and encouraged to attend the eve-

ning MAC/SAC events. The theme of the events is meant to be even more family-friendly and family-accessible than the usual weekend events, but they are that weekend’s MAC/SAC events and are open to all students on campus.

According to Beckas, it takes both the Campus Involvement Center and the MAC/SAC team at least five months to plan and coordinate this event as there are a variety of vendors and performers, as well as ordering any excess equipment and materials needed in order to keep the event running smoothly.

Families, friends and students can anticipate that for this year’s weekend there is going to be a giveaway: a pack of custom playing cards that are Mercyhurst themed. This is a uniquely themed prize unusual to everyday merchandise already sold here on campus.

“I am most excited for Family Weekend for two reasons. The first is that Braeden Barnett, the SAC Chair has worked diligent-

ly and with such great enthusiasm to plan this event and I am proud of what he has come up with. The second reason is that I was the SAC Chair 2015-2016, the first year that Family Weekend was separated from Homecoming,” Beckas said.

Barnett is also excited for Family Weekend.

“I am excited to deliver an extremely fun and enjoyable weekend for all of our Lakers and their families.” Barnett said.

This is a new responsibility for the SAC Chair.

“This was also the year that MSG amended the constitution to state that the SAC Chair is the sole person responsible for planning Family Weekend.”

Beckas said.

Families can register at https://www.mercyhurst.edu/ alumni/family-weekend for the fun filled weekend.

“I hope everyone will take advantage of what is sure to be a great weekend” Barnett said.

F O L L O W T H E M E R C I A D O N FAC E B O O K AT @ T H E M E R C I A D

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

FEATURES

PAGE 7

Contributed photos

Students represented Mercyhurst in South Carolina for Habitat for Humanity during their spring break. They spent the week finishing up several houses.

Lakers serve for spring break

By Laia Santos Oliver and Marina Boyle

Staff writer and Managing editor

Eighteen Mercyhurst students spent their Spring Break in John’s Island, SC, to help build houses for those in need.

Every year, several students join the Habitat for Humanity program, even though they don’t know what they are going to be working on until they get there.

In the past, the group has built a house from the foundation up, completed roofing, painted or tiled houses and completed demolition projects.

This year, the group of Laker volunteers worked on finishing three houses. Other volunteers had already done the basic building of the houses, giving Mercyhurst students the tasks of adding baseboards, doors, blinds, doorknobs, light fixtures, cabinets, etc.

They were also required to work on the painting and staining of the houses.

The group had a rough time on the third day of its trip when a torrential rain prevented them from working in the house. Instead, they went to the Habitat barn and worked on constructing the wooden frame of two other houses that will be built soon.

Junior Fashion Merchandising major Katy Vaccariello points out that, for her, the hardest part of the process are the skills that they learn throughout every trip.

“We are placed in a situation very new that is also impacting a family in the future,” Vaccariello said. “You have the pressure of properly executing the work needed.”

The students are not always working though.

They also get to enjoy a day off to go explore the area where they are staying.

Students keep coming back year after year, ready to repeat the experience.

Junior Intelligence Studies and Political Science major Marina Delmoro has been a part of the

Contributed photo

Merychurst students spent the week in Mexico on a medical mission trip and helped the sick and children in Mexico

club since freshman year. She has been a part of the trips to Monroe, North Carolina and Birmingham, Alabama, and regardless she still learns a new set of skills every year.

“The most rewarding part of this trip is seeing the look on the homeowners faces when they pull up and see volunteers helping build their house,” Delmoro said.

For Vaccariello, this was the second Habitat for Humanity trip that she took part in. She first chose to participate because of the opportunity to travel across the country and see a new place, while also being able to help people in need.

“We have completed so many challenging yet rewarding goals,” Vaccariello said. “It was an extremely fulfilling spring break.”

Individuals involved with the trip get to experience the core values that Mercyhurst represents outside of the classroom in a real-world situation. Students are

able to experience being ambassadors of service and making a change in someone’s life firsthand.

Students who have been a part of this trip for years highly recommend all students to join the group and experience a week with Habitat for Humanity.

“I think students should go on the trip at least once to gain experience and see what Habitat is all about,” Delmoro said.

For more information on Habitat for Humanity you can contact Jeremy Hewitt.

As well as the Habitat for Humanity trip, other offices organized events for students over break.

The AIM Program traveled to Washington D.C., where staff and students advocated for the rights of those with autism.

Students had meetings with Congressman Mike Kelly, Senator Bob Casey, the Department of Labor, Autism Speaks, Autism So-

ciety and the Ridge Policy Group.

These meetings were focused on advocating for vocational resources and the AIM program.

Those on the trip also met with representatives from The MITRE Corporation and Pricewaterhouse Cooper.

“We are excited that our collaborations and hard work have given students the ability to network, share their voice and advocate for autism vocational resources,” Bradley McGarry, AIM Program director, said. “They have done an incredible job representing Mercyhurst and the AIM Program.”

“I actually had a very productive time,” said Ben VanHook, a junior History major. “I may just have won an interview to intern in Washington DC for two senators.”

The office of Community Engagement also used the break for the benefit of a particular cause.

Students Kymberly Henry, Cailin Jaspers, Maya Poletto and Abigail

Vietmeier traveled to Cincinnati with Bethany Woods, assistant director of community engagement.

The group stayed with the Sisters of Mercy and Mercy Volunteer Corps members as they volunteered throughout the city for five days. Their service included helping organizations like La Soupe, which rescues otherwise wasted produce to create meals for food-insecure families. They also assisted Earth Connection, ImagoEarth and the Free Store Food Bank.

The focus of the trip was following one of Mercyhurst’s core values in being globally responsible,” senior, business major, Abigiail Vietmeier said. “We volunteered with organizations that give food to those in need, grow food for those in need and teach the community members how to be more sustainable and environmentally friendly. It was very fulfilling to see how much of an impact our group made in just a five day trip. I had a fantastic experience and would recommend the trip to anyone.”

Finally, a group of 20 Mercyhurst students jetted off to Valladolid, Mexico, on a medical mission trip through Chosen International.

The purpose was to serve children and the sick. Ten Physician Assistant students and 10 undergraduate science students worked alongside.

Mexican nursing students in the Valladolid villages to assess the health of the inhabitants and to shadow them in the operating room.

“Students traveled to schools to teach Mayan adolescents oral hygiene and basic handwashing skills during the Coronavirus outbreak,” said junior Biology major Amanda Brodie. “The medical mission trip is held yearly through Mercyhurst and is a great opportunity for anyone pursuing a path in medicine to give back to the world community.”

FEATURES

PAGE 8

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Thairu’s book is a big success

By Alex Trabold

Staff writer

Recently, assistant professor of Public Health, Lucy Thairu, Ph.D, wrote a book called “Eternia.”

Thairu is not only an accomplished author, she also has over 15 years of epidemiology work experience.

Now she has decided to put her writing abilities towards a book in the fiction genre. It was recently released on Jan. 31 at the beginning of the year.

The book focuses on a lioness, Maara. The reader follows her along on a journey of self discovery and growth.

“The book takes place in two Nick Wendelboe photo mythical countries, Eternia and Botanica. It is a fantasy story re- Donny Bryant, senior Communication major, posing with Dr. Thairu and her book.

garding a lioness Maara (named after one of the national parks in Kenya). Maara goes from a troubled young cub to a confident lioness,” Thairu said.

It is a novel that most can relate to, including Thairu herself.

“I was inspired by my experiences growing up in Kenya and by living here in the United States,” Thairu said.

Despite the fantastical premise, Thairu clearly has given the story a very human core, focusing on the anxieties and growth of her lioness protagonist.

Reviews for the book have shown positive reception from it’s readers, which have included other faculty members.

Rob Hoff, professor of Psychology at Mercyhurst University,

gave ringing endorsement, saying “Dr. Thairu’s latest novel is surprisingly wise and thought-provoking and will be a wonderful selection for book discussion clubs.

Highly recommended.”

She has high hopes for people, including the students here at Mercyhurst University, to check it out and dive into the world that she’s created.

It is currently available on Amazon for $14.99. It is also available in the Mercyhurst bookstore.

If you’re interested in what the creative minds of the faculty on campus have produced, give this book a look.

Senior Class Gift Committee hosts fundraiser for class scholarship

By Emilie Frederikke Bock Staff writer

On Feb. 18, the Senior Class Gift Committee at Mercyhurst University hosted an event at Molly Brannigan’s to raise money for the senior class gift, the Mike Folga Scholarship.

For all the food and drinks purchased between 11 am to 9 pm, the Red Letter Hospitality Group donated 20% of the proceeds to the senior class gift.

Besides raising money at the event, the overall goal from the Senior Class Gift Committee was to increase awareness about the Mike Folga Scholarship. This is something that Katie Ballew, a senior Sports Management major, agreed with.

“It was a good fundraiser, and people who would not normally come to Mercyhurst for such an event might have contributed to it this time because it was at Molly Brannigan’s. In that way people from Erie became aware of the scholarship that we are all trying to raise money for this year,” Ballew said.

The fundraiser was not only available for the Mercyhurst community but also to the Erie community as well, making it an event different from the ones hosted on campus. As Mitchell Marsh, chair of the Senior Class Gift, said about the event: “This event is special in that it

involves the Erie community and serves as a fun evening at a great local establishment.”

The fundraising event had a great turnout throughout the day. Around dinner time, students, parents and members of the Athletic department were represented at the event.

“I had a good time, it was a great idea, and any reason to go to Molly Brannigan’s is a good reason, if you ask me. I think it was a good idea to have the fundraiser go all day, in that way people weren’t limited on time, and could come support it whenever they had time,” Maya Bauer, senior Environmental Science and Spanish major said about the event.

The Senior Class Gift Committee is hoping to raise more than $15,000 and have a 60% class participation by the end of the semester. Marsh is very pleased with the progress on reaching the goal so far and gives a lot of credit to the senior class.

“We are really happy with our progress towards reaching our goals and the senior class has been fantastic in making that happen,” Marsh says.

The next event hosted by the senior class gift was on Feb. 24 at the Roost, when famous Mercyhurst community members Emilie Frederikke Bock photo mixed your favorite drinks.

All tips benefitted the Mike Sophomores, Rhyan Komsthoeft, Kenzie Schroeder, and Maddie Boorse showing their support for the Folga Scholarship. seniors during the fundraiser at Molly Brannigan’s on Feb. 18.

F O L L O W T H E M E R C I A D O N FAC E B O O K AT @ T H E M E R C I A D

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

FEATURES

RSCO FEATURE ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATION

AML Club welcomes speakers to discuss social justice issues

By Laren Reesman Staff writer

By Laia Santos Oliver

Staff writer

A brand new Accounting Association has been founded on campus this past month to provide students with reallife accounting experiences.

Through the use of tools and resources such as Quickbooks, tax returns and budgets, amongst others, this new association’s mission is to help students who are interested in accounting gain knowledge in the field by testing their skills with legitimate, authentic cases.

“The Accounting Association strives to promote stronger faculty-student relationships and hands-on experiences to improve a student’s knowledge within their major,” president Amanda Costello said.

The club welcomes any student regardless of their major as long as they have an interest in the subject and are ready to develop their skill set.

Some of the workshops and materials that members get to access are Excel tutorials, preparation classes for the Certified Management Accountant and Certified Public Accountant exam, as well as tax preparation.

The members of the club will also be able to sit with experienced professionals to ask them questions and be a part of organized excursions.

They already have several plans to involve the club with the Erie community in future events.

“We have plans to do a Diaper Drive for a local charity, as well as helping out at a nonprofit with their financials and help students at Mercyhurst with their taxes,”Costello said.

The club is also organizing a Chipotle fundraiser on March 12 where any student can help fund the club’s activities.

Costello believes that this association is a great opportunity for Accounting students to specialize in activities that pertain directly to their major, and encourages students to make this club their own to get what they feel is necessary out of it.

Besides that, it is also a great resume builder for Accounting students especially, as it is an association that directly pertains to the major and allows them to work on their skills outside of class.

The association is currently working to start up their social media and will have that up and running soon, but if you are interested you can find more information on the club by emailing Amanda Costello at acoste49@lakers. mercyhurst.edu or by contacting Dr. Cheryl Moore at cmoore2@mercyhurst.edu.

PAGE 9

On Feb. 27, Mercyhurst University’s Anti-Money Laundering Club (AML) held an event entitled Anti-Money Laundering: Human Trafficking. The event focused on how closely connected human trafficking is to money.

Bryan Chapman, a representative from the Pittsburgh chapter of the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS), and chair of Anti-Human Trafficking force, as well as Deborah Davies, Intelligence Studies instructor, on the Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition Force and Betsy Wiest, Social Justice coordinator of the Sisters of St. Joseph also came together for this eye-opening presentation on the implications of financing in human trafficking.

This event follows another ACAMS presentation from the Fall, “Anti-Money Laundering 101”.

ACAMS Pittsburgh began a University series in 2019 to encourage the development and education of AML programs. Almost all financial institutions require some kind of AML program to comply with government regulations.

Therefore, AML is a rapidly growing field in need of experienced personnel. Orlandrew Danzell, Ph.D., Intelligence Department chair, explained that the event is not only to build Mercyhurst Intelligence Studies students’ exposure to AML but also to expand into the business majors and Erie community as a whole, hopefully adding to post-Mercyhurst job and career opportunities. “Mercyhurst is one of the only colleges in the region to provide undergraduate AML exposure,” Danzell said.

One major takeaway from the event is how closely the private financial sector has become linked to law enforcement and government in combating organized crime threats like human trafficking and drug smuggling.

According to Danzell, in many ways the private sector drives this need for AML and has developed many of the modern AML techniques used to catch criminals. Human trafficking is a manifestation of many failures in society, including within the financial sector. Following the money is often the surest way to discover the crime and its culprits.

The event also created an opportunity for Mercyhurst

students to be involved in a community-wide human trafficking stance.

The Erie Anti-Human Trafficking Coalition Force was pushing for legislation in Pennsylvania to update public fliers to be more informative and placed in crucial places where victims might be separated from their trafficker.

Event attendees were asked to sign letters to state representatives encouraging the legislation to pass.

ACAMS hopes that publicity and exposure of AML education will prompt other universities to follow suit. In fact, they published an article written by the faculty member behind the entire AML program: Musa Tuzuner, Ph.D. The article describes the new undergraduate AML minor program at Mercyhurst.

Tuzuner and Danzell hope to host at least two ACAMS-related events every year, one in the Fall and one on the Spring.

Overall, the event was a testament to the direction that Mercyhurst wishes to go— to become a reliable campus tuned into the needs and demands of current employers.

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Laren Reesman photo

Students attending AML event where Bryan Chapman, Deborah Davies and Betsy Wiest spoke about anti-money laundering, human trafficking and social justice.

PAGE 10

UPCOMING EVENTS March 9-April 2 in CAG: Patricia S. Yahn ‘50 Juried Student Art Show March 11 @ 8 p.m. in WRH: Kathy Soroka Faculty Recital March 13 @ 7:30 p.m. at St. Luke’s Church: Concert Choir Concert March 27, 29 in PAC: Opera Pops and Sizzles April 1 @ 7:30 p.m. in PAC: Brian Stokes Mitchell April 6 @ 8 p.m. in WRH: Maksim Shtrykov and Misuzu Tanaka Roche Recital April 6-May 1 in CAG: Senior Art Thesis Exhibition April 7 @ 12:45 p.m. in WRH: Maksim Shtrykov and Misuzu Tanaka Masterclass April 15 @ 8 p.m. in WRH: Presque Isle Saxophone Quartet April 16 @ 7:30 p.m. in PAC: An Evening with Glenn Close April 18 @ 4 p.m. in Erie: National Water Dance April 18 @ 7 p.m. in TLT: Jazz Ensemble Concert April 24 @ 7 p.m. in WRH: Mozart and His Merry Maids April 24-26 in PAC: Raw Edges XXII April 29 @ 7 p.m. in WRH: Small Ensembles Concert May 1 @ 7 p.m. in WRH: Concert Choir Concert

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Soroka to sing art songs in WRH

By Abby Stevens Staff writer

the woman he loves.

This piece features Wunch.

From France, there will be selections from Joseph Canteloube’s “Songs of the Auvergne.”

These folk songs come from the rural, mountainous Auvergne region of southern France.

These songs will feature Philipp.

Also from France, but with a Spanish influence due to the composer’s interest in Spanish music, is Maurice Ravel’s “Alborada del Gracioso.”

The concert also presents flavors of Eastern Europe with selections from Gustav Mahler’s Des Knaben Wunderhorn, or “The Boy’s Magic Horn,” which

are musical renditions of German folk poems.

Soroka says that in one of these songs, “Mahler humorously delights with his frivolous singing competition between a nightingale and cuckoo, judged by a donkey.”

A little further from the west comes “Seven Popular Songs”

by Spanish composer Manuel de Falla.

The concert also features two lullabies, “Little Horses” by Aaron Copland and “Schlaf mein Kind” (Sleep my Child) by David Stock.

There will also be an African-American spiritual arranged

by Erie native Harry T. Burleigh

The next Mercyhurst faculty recital will take place on March 11 at 8 p.m. in the Walker Recital Hall.

The concert, titled “Folk Songs and Love Songs,” will feature faculty voice instructor, mezzo-soprano Katherine Soroka, and visiting pianist Nathan Carterette.

Audience members should expect to “enter a richly colored world of musical communality and cultural diversity pulsing with life from the mountains of Bavaria and river valleys of the Auvergne to the shtetls of Eastern Europe, sunny villages of Spain and plains of America,” Soroka said.

The repertoire on the program is comprised of folk-inspired art songs in seven different languages.

The selection is emotionally dynamic, featuring everything from lullabies in two different languages to love songs about longing, loss and betrayal.

There will also be several other accompanying musicians, including Mercyhurst faculty Rebecca Wunch on clarinet, Hillary Philipp on oboe and Jonathan Moser on violin.

The program for the night includes songs from all around the world.

The opening song for the night, “Parto Parto,” is an aria from La Clemenza di Tito, an Italian opera seria composed by Austrian Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

This aria leans toward the love songs part of the recital, as the character singing it, Sesto, agrees to commit an assassination for Soroka and Moser will both perform during the concert Wednesday.

called “When I’m Gone,” based the song “Go’in Home” written by composer Antonin Dvořák.

Dvořák was “inspired by the plantation songs Burleigh sang while serving as secretary and copyist for his New World Symphony,” Soroka said.

Burleigh learned spirituals from his own grandfather, Hamilton Waters, a blind man who worked as a lamplighter in Erie and was formerly enslaved.

Two songs by Dvořák will also be performed on the concert, including “Songs my Mother Taught Me,” which features Moser on solo violin.

The recital is free and open to the public.

Contributed photo

FAC U LT Y R E C I TA L R E V I E W

Violinist ‘Mose’ to the occasion

By Rachele Heasley

Staff writer

The Walker Recital Hall was filled with the sweet sound of music on Feb. 19 as Mercyhurst’s own Jonathan Moser played his faculty recital entitled “In Love or In Solitude.”

The program included repertoire from Serge Prokofiev and Johannes Brahms to Stephen Colantti and Ralph Vaughn Williams, covering a variety of styles and eras.

Moser invited a few other Mercyhurst faculty members to join him in concert, including mezzo-soprano Kathy Soroka, pianist Sarah Kahl, D.M.A. and classical guitarist Jonathan Nolan.

The concert opened with “Sonata-Monologue” by Soviet-American composer Aram Khachaturian.

The “Sonata-Monologue” was written along with a series of other solo string pieces towards the end of Khachaturian’s life, this particular one being the second to last he would ever write.

The sonata features the violin-

ist as a lonely, bardic voice, driven by rhythmic sections interspersed with outpourings of emotion.

The music explores a range of emotions, ending on a phrase that sounds almost like a question, as if implying that the bard will only continue to wander.

The next piece played was Prokofiev’s “Five Melodies.”

Moser played all five movements and was accompanied by Kahl on the piano.

Originally composed for voice and piano, this violin arrangement is a stunning work of art navigated expertly by Moser.

Each short movement is its own character piece, individual in personality and mood.

Prokofiev experimented with some elements of exoticism and diatonic harmonies, with some musical humor thrown in.

Moser took the stage solo once more to perform “Love Letter”

by Stephen Colantti.

Colantti wrote the piece to be a literal love letter, with the beginning phrase marking out the words “My dearest friend.”

The following paragraph ex-

presses courtly pleasantries, the next loneliness and longing and the next a recounting of new experiences.

The letter takes on a few more sad notes before resolving in a loving salutation.

The next piece performed was “Zwei Gesange fur eine Altstimme” by Brahms, and featured Kahl once more on piano and Soroka as vocalist.

Moser switched to viola for this set of two songs.

The first piece is a setting of a text by German Romantic poet Friedrich Ruckert, and the second is the Virgin Mary singing to baby Jesus.

Soroka’s performance was tender and full of warmth, as it always is, and Moser’s viola conversed with her voice exquisitely.

Jonathan Nolan joined with Moser on the following two pieces: “Café, 1930” from Histoire du Tango by Astor Pantaleon Piazzolla and “Entr’acte” from Le Medecin de son Honneur by Jacques Ibert.

Classical guitar and violin together is an unusual combination,

but one that was enrapturing and vastly interesting to witness.

The Piazzolla piece was expressive and passionate, as a tango ought to be, and the voices of the violin and guitar made it surprising and lively.

The second piece, “Entr’acte,” is closer to a Flamenco style, an example of Spanish exoticism from the French.

There are sections of the piece that fly wild and free, and other sections that have emotion and depth.

The final piece in the recital was Vaughn Williams’ “The Lark Ascending.”

Moser was joined once more by Kahl on piano for the short, romantic tune.

This piece is an achievement in pastoral writing, with the lark’s call heard in the violin occasionally as Vaughn Williams paints a picture of the English countryside.

It was a fantastic selection to end the performance with, and it showed off Moser’s musicianship in the more difficult sections.

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 11

JAZZ ENSEMBLE REVIEW

Jazz concert had real ‘sax’ appeal

By Victoria McGinty

Staff writer

The D’Angelo Department of Music presented another successful concert on Feb. 22.

This concert featured the Jazz Ensemble and an array of colorful arrangements that were a mix of both soulful and iconic.

Under the direction of Scott Meier, Ph.D., the collection of 17 talented students showed immense dedication to their craft during this concert.

The Presque Isle Jazz Orchestra also appeared on stage for the second half of the concert.

To begin the student portion of the performance, the ensemble played Gerad Guter’s “Bossa De Barro.”

This Brazilian Bossa nova piece is a mixture of a march and a light-hearted big band number that introduced the Jazz Ensemble to the audience in a perfect

manner.

Following Guter came a classic jazz arrangement of Shay Goodwin and Fischer’s “When You’re Smiling.”

This arrangement nodded at the traditional, romantic side of jazz.

This 1928 iconic song was the perfect number for a concert that took place just a little after Valentine’s Day, a time when romance is alive in our daily lives.

Following the iconic arrangement of “When You’re Smiling” came John Clayton’s “Soupbone.”

This piece’s name pays homage to the brass section, the trombone in particular.

The piece was performed beautifully, and it was my favorite overall.

Ensemble members Willow Lapp (freshman, alto saxophone, Music Therapy) and Kirk Morrison (freshman, trumpet, Music Education) agree that this piece

was the most difficult for them.

Because there is so much depth to it, it was challenging to nail sometimes.

Next, came Bert Ligon’s “Ash.” This piece can be described as a spy film action sequence put to music.

The tone of the piece is adventurous and nontraditional but it was still a hit with the audience.

Its upbeat tone and fast transitions reminded me of a traditional big band arrangement, but set in a James Bond sequence.

The student portion of the concert closed with Yoko Kanno Eric Dannewitz’s “Tank!”

This piece is notable as the opening theme to “Cowboy Bebop,” a Japanese anime created by Masahiko Minami.

It aired from 1998-2001 and follows the futuristic adventures of a bounty hunter and his partners.

This piece closed out the stu-

dent portion of the performance perfectly as the arrangement was both upbeat and full of character and charisma.

It even featured a short, spoken solo by Meier.

The ensemble’s pianist, Jacob Perry (freshman, Music Education), said “this was my favorite piece because it is both non-traditional and unique.”

“It showcases our ensemble perfectly as we are all upbeat people,” Perry said.

Following the student portion, the Mercyhurst Jazz Ensemble relinquished the PAC stage to special guest ensemble the Presque Isle Jazz Orchestra.

Directed by Allen Zürcher, D.A., the ensemble features several members of the D’Angelo faculty, including Meier.

The ensemble performed an array of pieces, opening up with Allen Zürcher’s arrangement of “Gibraltar” and closing with

Zürcher’s own composition, “Part One.” In between, the band performed a variety of arrangements and pieces overall, each spectacular in its own way.

Hosting the Presque Isle Jazz Orchestra was quite a treat for both the students in the Jazz Ensemble and all who attended.

Overall, both ensembles demonstrated sensational talent and dedication highly tangible in every number performed.

As someone who is heavily involved and active in both attending and performing the fine arts, I always love supporting the arts in any way I can.

Attending various concerts on campus is just one way we can do that.

The February concert was nonetheless spectacular and it is always a treat getting to hear a live band on a cold winter’s evening.

Dance choreography planned

By Sarah Klein

Staff writer

On March 11 and 12, a group of Mercyhurst dancers will have the opportunity to set their first pieces on the Mercyhurst stage during the two-day Works in Progess event as part of the Choreography II class.

On March 11, the junior choreographers will present their pieces, and on March 12, the sophomores will present theirs.

Each piece will feature dancers from the Mercyhurst Dance Department.

Works in Progess allows Dance majors to show the culmination of their work as choreographers, which they have honed throughout the semester.

In preparing for their showing, each student made decisions regarding which dancers to work with, what music to use, costumes, lighting and any additional

scenic elements.

Starting in late January, the students held rehearsals each week.

They are now excited to present their work.

The event will showcase a broad range of dance styles including modern dance, ballet, musical theater and tap.

The choreographed pieces will explore family and childhood relationships, dark inner thoughts, world travel, where the mind drifts at night and beyond.

“There are numerous reasons why I love to choreograph and dance, but the main satisfaction I take from doing so is giving the audience an emotion or thought they might not have had otherwise,” said sophomore Dance and Business Administration major Jenna Fritts.

This causes them “to dive deeper and ask themselves about what they saw and how they were affected by it,” Fritts said.

“The most challenging part (of this project) has been envisioning the final product on stage and making decisions to bring that to light, such as lighting concept and costumes,” said junior BFA Dance major Caroline Shroer.

When asked what the most rewarding part of the process has been, sophomore Dance major Ramani Rosa said that “having the opportunity to work with new people while sharing an intimate space for one’s thoughts and ideas can be very personal and scary.”

“The process of learning to overcome fear, be able to translate your vision onto bodies and have it come full circle is a very gratifying experience,” Rosa said.

This event will be held in the Taylor Little Theater at 7:30 p.m. both nights.

It is free and open to the public.

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T H E AT R E R E V I E W

‘Babes in Arms’ ends Theatre Dept. season

By Victoria McGinty

Staff writer

The Mercyhurst Theatre Program recently finished a run of one of the most iconic musicals of the 20th century.

Rogers and Hart’s “Babes in Arms” is known for timeless songs like “My Funny Valentine,” “I Wish I Were In Love Again” and “Where or When,” which have been recorded a number of times over the years.

Under the direction of Brett Johnson, Ph.D., the talented cast and crew at Mercyhurst put on a show that reached the audience’s hearts and old souls.

First produced in 1937, this musical is a comedy show within a comedy show.

It follows Long Island teenagers during the Depression, who put on a show to avoid being sent to a working farm by the town sheriff after their actor parents go on the road for five months in an effort to revive Vaudeville.

Among the group is Valentine White (Jacob Tretinik), a music director trying to keep the group in line and help them become successful.

Also among the performers are Susie Ward (Monica Tinsely), Gus Field (Braden Roscizewski) and Terry Thompson (Abby Whit-

man).

While facing their own fears and daily struggles, all are somehow connected by romance, history and the illusions of fame and performance.

As for the rest of the apprentices, they yearn for the opportunity to perform but are at the mercy of Seymour Fleming (Jakarri Buckner), Lee Calhoun (Nick Humes) and empathetic assistant Bunny Byron (Jenna Roscizewski).

Everything changes, however, when former child star Jenifer Owen (Tessa Sayre) and her mother, Phyliss Owen (Elizabeth Shewan), come to the theater for Jenifer to star in a production

forced upon the company.

Comedic chaos occurs, people fall in love and dreams come true in the end.

This comedic musical showcased 19 talented students in the cast, a hearty production staff and a talented pit of 13 musicians.

Choreographed by Jennie Cross, this musical had an array of tap and classic musical theatre routines that fit the production perfectly.

The production featured a rustic set which complimented the colorful costumes and props that the cast sported.

While the production itself was wonderful, its short runtime left

audiences wanting to know more about our favorite characters.

But it was a spirited performance that came together wonderfully.

The Mercyhurst Theatre Department’s production of “Babes in Arms” was the perfect end to a spirited season.

This year, the Theatre Department shed some light on Dungeons and Dragons, celebrated Christmas with Ebenzer Scrooge and put on a broadway classic.

I can’t wait to see what’s up ahead for next year!

OPINION

PAGE 12

GOOD Students were finally outside using the sport court!

Enjoying spring break from home

By Eva

Philips Staff writer

BAD The Coronavirus is interrupting schedules and travel plans.

WEIRD Because of Daylight Savings Time, we lost an entire hour over break. Where did it go?

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Letters are due Mondays by noon and may not be more than 300 words. Submit letters to box PH 485 or via email at merciad@mercyhurst.edu.

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Spring Break has come and gone, leaving in its wake a flurry of Instagram posts and memories of a wonderful week free of stress and endless assignments.

We’re in the final stretch, now, 24 weeks of the academic year down, and eight to go.

This should be comforting, but I get the sense that these last eight weeks will be the most brutal time of the year.

Bearing that in mind, I think it’s appropriate to reflect back on Spring Break.

From what I saw, lots of people traveled to various exotic locations.

Even my own sister went to Ireland for the break, leaving me behind in Baden, Pennsylvania.

Haven’t heard of it?

It’s pretty obscure.

The weather is lovely this time of year, 45 degrees and rainy!

It may sound like I’m bitter, but I’m not.

And while my Spring Break surely pales in comparison to the sun-drenched, no-filter exploits

that have filled my Instagram feed, it had its benefits.

Allow me to make the case for a stay-cation by sharing my favorite parts of the break.

First off, there is the free time that comes with break.

I love traveling as much as anyone else, but being able to really relax over Spring Break is a beautiful thing.

Sleeping in, lounging in sweatpants all day and watching an absurd amount of Netflix?

Sounds good to me.

Speaking of Netflix, that brings me to my next point.

I know I have been severely lacking in opportunities to explore new shows and movies throughout the first half of the spring semester.

What better way is there to spend Spring Break than crossing some items off my watch list?

I watched almost all five seasons of “Schitt’s Creek” that are on Netflix.

I have to say, that was a pretty entertaining way to pass the time on the whole.

Finally, and most importantly, the best part of a Spring Break stay-cation is spending time with friends and family.

I know, I know, it sounds cliche.

But it was truly wonderful to eat a home-cooked meal and help my mom make a skillet cookie for dessert.

Of course, I also got to cuddle with my adorable golden retriever.

As an added bonus, my best friend came home for break a few days before I came back to Mercyhurst.

So we got to do two of our favorite things.

For one, we had dinner at Panera together.

We also went to see a movie, “Birds of Prey.”

Which, wow.

I could easily write another article about how much I loved that movie; it is that good.

I guess what I’m trying to say is, if you didn’t have the opportunity or ability to go allout on a fancy Spring Break trip, there’s no shame in that.

Staying at home and relaxing can be just as enjoyable as vacationing, it’s a great way to recharge for the busy weeks ahead.

As long as you’re with people you love, doing what brings you joy, then even the most seemingly-boring place can become the perfect spring break destination.

Parking at Mercyhurst

That hunk of rusted junk will become your baby as you zip up and down the streets with your Ianiro new car.

Staff writer Most people have a fond attachment to their first car.

I think everyone can remember I, for instance, love my brand that special day in life when a new 2002 Chevy Trailblazer. person really begins to leave their Unfortunately, I cannot fit protective nest. it in my classrooms, so I must I am talking, of course, of the abandon it for the day alone on day when you finally get your the side of the road. driver’s license.

Luckily, I go to a university Most of us know the incredibly that provides ample space for my convoluted process of learning baby. to drive and then getting your So, I can feel safe earning my license. degree knowing that it’s fine The weeks of monotonous nearby. research, hitting barrels with Some people might read that bumpers and having experienced last sentence and think I am motorists yell at you to teach you speaking sarcastically, but I assure how to use windshield wipers, you I am not. all of it culminating that glorious The facts are that Mercyhurst day when you finally have a piece provides a ton of student parking of plastic with a picture of your at a ridiculously low rate when face on it. compared to other institutions or The next step is to find parking facilities. a vehicle that has a slightly There is also a lot of street inappropriate car parts to duct parking close to Mercyhurst’s tape ratio to call your own. campus.

Your first car will not be Some might argue the opposite anything fancy, but it will still be of my position, that Mercyhurst yours. has garbage parking.

By Gianluca

I’ve even heard some students wish that our parking policies were closer to that of other universities.

But let me tell the doubters that the grass is not always greener on the other side.

I am a transfer student, for those who don’t know.

So I can attest that, at my previous university, parking was very expensive and an absolute disaster.

Students, believe it or not, had to walk entire blocks to get to class.

The buildings were so spread across campus that students had to either walk the 10 to 15-minute walks or try and fight for a parking spot closer to their destination.

Compared to that, Mercyhurst’s parking is a lot better, despite whatever flaws it may have.

My advice for people concerned about parking is simple.

Buy a pass, and get to the lot early.

And if you have to park in the street, don’t be afraid to get your walk on.

The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the views of Mercyhurst University, the staff of The Merciad or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are welcome and can be emailed to merciad@mercyhurst.edu

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

OPINION

PAGE 13

Why so much salt HURST STUDENTS on campus roads? SPEAK UP actually worsening in Erie right now.

By Marina If this doesn’t bother you, then Boyle think about the fact that we have Managing Editor to drink that water.

Animals have to live in that Why is there always so much water too. salt on campus?

The sodium chloride is As someone who hates how toxic to aquatic life and even much blue salt gets dragged into low concentrations harms the my living room every day, I’m freshwater ecosystem. trying to shed some light on the Columbia University found issue. that some 40 percent of U.S. Obviously, there is a reason for urban streams now exceed the the salt. safe guidelines for aquatic life.

Salt helps us in terms of grip Runoff containing the road salt and is somewhat of a necessity causes oxygen depletion in bodies during the winter months, of water, which is also equally as because it’s a cheap and effective harmful for the natural life. way to protect roads from ice.

Salt is a corrosive, eating By lowering the freezing point away roads, bridges and other of pure water salt impedes the infrastructure, and costing us ability of the water molecules to millions each year in repairs. form solid ice crystals.

Since salt was first used in But, why, oh why, is there so the 1940s, its usage has only much salt? increased.

I feel like half the time we are Today an estimated 20 million expecting snow, I see more blue tons of salt is scattered on U.S. than white. roads annually.

These salt solutions decrease This is about 123 pounds for the freezing temperature of every American. That is as crazy water to just around 15 degrees as it sounds.

Fahrenheit.

Winter maintenance is When the temperature goes very expensive for states and below that, all the salt in the Pennsylvania comes in second world can’t help. after New York, spending $246 Moreover, the environmental million on snow control each impact of all this salt is year. staggering.

Imagine if we spent a little less The salt runoff floods into on sodium and little more on Lake Erie and makes the sodium caring for our earth. content in Erie waters 40 times An alternative strategy would higher than it should be. be putting sand on the ice, but Penn State Behrend research it is not cheaper and also has teams discovered that the issue is its drawbacks because it doesn’t

change the melting temperature.

I live in a Lewis townhouse which has both a front and back door.

This creates two gaping points of entry for all the salt.

Our back steps get cleared in the mornings by maintenance, which is such a blessing, but then get thoroughly salted.

If the steps are cleared, we really don’t need that much salt in the end.

To be honest, more ends up in our living room then on the actual steps.

I want to make one thing clear, I don’t blame the maintenance workers for this at all.

They do so much for all of us, and I am sure they are just using the amount of salt that they are instructed to.

I’m also sure the University also fears an expensive lawsuit if someone slips and they have not salted at all.

That’s actually the hard part here.

Where are we supposed to draw the line between safety and sustainability?

Salt is working in the shortterm, but the long-term impact is detrimental.

In this day and age, I honestly think the environment calls us to salt less and take care when walking more.

I am sick of the blue particles everywhere.

And, to be blunt here, Erie’s water, natural and plant life can only handle so much more of this.

We asked: What is your favorite place to eat in Erie?

Austin Ducios, junior Dance major: “My favorite place to eat is Alkeme!”

Genevieve Burgess, sophomore Psychology major: “I like to eat at Valerios.”

Nick Wendelboe, junior Communication major: “I love Odis 12.

The wings they have there are the best.”

Logan Floyd, senior English major: “My favorite place to eat in Erie is the Roost.”

Compiled by Anthony Miller

What are the benefits of both the Roost and the Grotto Commons

By Alex

Trabold Staff writer

Last Saint Patrick’s Day Mercyhurst University opened the Roost in the Student Union as a new place for students and visitors to eat meals.

Reception to this new restaurant has been highly positive.

It has been praised for having great food, a nice atmosphere, and being a unique new part of the Mercyhurst University experience.

However, this has raised a rather concerning question regarding other parts of the campus.

Mainly the Grotto Commons, where a majority of Mercyhurst students have chosen to eat for years.

Due to the high quality experience of eating at the Roost, some have wondered whether going to the Roost makes eating at the Grotto unnecessary.

While I can’t say I speak for all students here on Campus, my experiences at both places tells me that they can coexist without jeopardizing the other.

The reason is that both places bring their own unique experiences and food to Mercyhurst.

They also have proven useful to both the student body and the faculty at different times.

The Grotto Commons functions as a buffet.

While staff do serve food to customers, they do so at the whim of whoever approaches their station and asks for food.

Rather than making an order then waiting to be served, customers must seek out the food themselves.

Customers go about picking whatever is available at the Clean Plate, Grill, Salad Bar, the Oven, dessert station, and the Deli.

Not only are all of these stations offering different food for the students to eat, but their food selection alternates between days, meaning the Grotto Commons never serves the exact same food two days in a row.

On some days, the Grill is serving burgers.

On other days, it’s serving chili dogs.

In comparison, the Roost provides a much more consistent, but still unique experience.

Every day the Roost has the exact same menu, that is presented to every customer who enters.

Instead of finding food for themselves, they have to inform the staff of what their order is before being given a number that will inform the employees

delivering the meal where you are seated.

And instead of immediately being given the food when asked, the Roost functions more like a proper restaurant where the customers wait with their drink while the chefs prepare their order.

Despite having a smaller selection of items compared to the Grotto Commons, there are items on the Roost’s menu that are not available anywhere else on campus, such as alcoholic beverages like Angry Orchard cider.

As for the times when I go to these two places, it depends on what time of day that I need to eat.

Most times, during the week I attend the Grotto Commons.

The buffet nature of the Grotto allows me to quickly get lunch or dinner, before any appointments that may be

coming up shortly.

I go to the Roost mainly on Friday nights, when the week is over and I’m ready to decompress.

At that time, I am completely ready to enjoy a nice restaurant quality meal.

Usually this meal is buffalo wings with a side of fries.

People frequently praise the quality of the food at the Roost, and that praise is well-deserved.

Those buffalo wings make the whole week worthwhile, I swear.

However, I will admit that the Roost is limited in the times when it is open.

It’s only open after 4 p.m. on most days, limiting the amount of time in which students can visit.

Both places provide unique benefits to those here at Mercyhurst University, and I don’t see either of them going away any time soon.

SPORTS

PAGE 14

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Water polo remains hopeful

By Carlena Bressanelli Staff writer

While most students were enjoying their Spring break, the Mercyhurst women’s water polo team was working hard. The Lakers traveled to Bloomington, Indiana on March 7 and March 8 to compete in the Hoosiers Invite hosted by the Indiana University.

The Lakers first game was against the Hoosiers on March 7. The Hoosiers prevailed with a 15-5 win.

The Hoosiers came out strong to take an early 4-2 lead at the end of the first quarter. Unwilling to let the Hoosiers end the quarter 4-0, freshman Ava Gerbhardt scored twice for Mercyhurst.

In the second quarter, the Lakers struggled to score and were unable to fend off the Hoosiers’ continued attacks, as they ended the half 8-2.

Freshman Hanna Good managed to put one ball in the back of the net for the Lakers during the third quarter. Ultimately, Mercyhurst fell short to the Hoosiers three goals during the third quarter.

Ending the game, Mercyhurst scored twice in the fourth quarter but was not strong enough to keep away Indiana’s four goals.

Sophomore Sara Marin was able to score a goal with an assist from Good. Mercyhurst sophomore Cassie Anderson was also able to score a goal with an assist from senior Mason Feldstein.

Junior goalie Sarah O’Keefe and freshman goalie Madison Hoefakker both had six saves for the Lakers as well.

“This weekend was tough for us — we played three games, one of them against Indiana Univ-

eristy, which is one of the top 10 teams in the country,” said Marin.

The Lakers were outshot 31-22.

The Lakers went one-for-three on the power play, and the Hoosiers went four-for-10.

Indiana’s goals were scored by Tina Doherty, Megan Abarta, Robyn Greenslade, Juli Hilosky, Izzy Mandema, Hannah FallsHand, Lanna Debow, Rebecca Schofield and Katherine Hawkins.

In net, the Hoosiers’ Sarah Greeven made six saves and Davis Simmons saved three.

“

Our team makes sure we have fun while we play. We come together and support one another throughout everything.”

Michaela Hershey, No. 5

Later on in the day, the Lakers faced the McKendree University Bearcats.

Not letting the loss get to them, the Lakers came out strong against the Bearcats, winning with a score of 13-6.

“We really rallied together to win our important conference game against McKendree on Saturday,” senior Rachel Byrnes said.

Against McKendree, Feldstein had one goal and four assists, Good scored three times and

Anderson had two goals and one assist.

In addition, Byrnes and sophomore Michaela Hershey each had one goal and one assist.

Junior Rachel Morris, senior Lindsey Mizrahi and junior Isabella Morris all scored once each as well.

In goal, O’Keefe made a total of eight saves for the Lakers to keep the Bearcat’s score low.

“We hadn’t seen that team yet, so getting a win was big. It’ll help a lot in our championship seeding in May,” Byrnes said.

“Our team makes sure we have fun while we play,” Hershey said.

“We come together and support one another throughout everyEd Mailliard photo thing.”

Senior Mason Feldstein throws the ball during the second game The McKendree players who against McKendree Univeristy. scored were Emily Westlove, Brianna Mullalley, Carley Manuel and Lindy Justice.

Bearcat goalie Isabella Strimling made 16 saves in net.

On March 8, the Lakers competed in their last match of the invite, losing to the California Lutheran University Kingsmen and Regals 6-3. The Lakers ended the conference tournament 1-2.

“We had great chemistry, energy, and a set mindset during the second conference game,” Marin said, “but we still have to work harder on these since our next tournament will be in West Virgina where we have two very close conference games.”

The team’s next invite is a single-day tournament at Morgantown, West Virginia on March 28.

At the WVU Invite, the Lakers will face the Salem University Tigers and the Gannon University Ed Mailliard photo Golden Knights.

Color guard to come soon

By Marina Boyle

Managing editor

Starting in Fall 2020, Mercyhurst spirit will introduce the exciting addition of a color guard.

With the support of athletic director Brad Davis, director of club sports Ally Brace and marching band director Bob Reid, the color guard will work with the marching band to enhance Laker spirit and pride.

Mercyhurst graduate Shawn Marie Gorring will be the group’s adviser.

“I heard that Bob was interested in having a color guard next fall,” Gorring said.

“We spoke and he asked if I would take the position. Knowing Bob for a long time and being a graduate of Mercyhurst University, I was thrilled. I then met with the athletic director and was accepted.”

Gorring has over 30 years of experience teaching all venues of marching band activities, including drum corps and indoor winter color guard.

“

through all of these and timing and tempo. The color guard activity is booming locally, counYou can see the try wide and all over the world,” Gorring said. music through The guard is currently inviting all of these those interested to learn more.

An introductory meeting will and timing and be held in the REC Center on tempo. The color March 26 at 8 p.m.

Gorring stressed how this is guard activity is an exciting new area of involvebooming locally, ment, especially for students seeking a space to try something country wide new. and all over the “This activity gives so many kids the opportunity to belong world.” to something when maybe there wasn’t another activity for them.

Shawn Marie I’m lucky to be part of it all,” Gorring Gorring said.

Those interested can reach out to Gorring or Reid for more de“I’m thrilled to see this amazing tails at sgorring@mercyhurst.edu band add color guard,” Gorring or rreid@mercyhurst.edu. said. “I feel color guard brings the icing on the cake. The color guard, through color, equipment, dance and expression, brings the music to life.”

“You can see the music

Junior Maddie Nye looks during the Indiana University Hoosiers Invite.

HURST RESULTS

March 7: Women’s DI ice hockey vs. Robert Morris University (College Hockey America Championship): 2-1 OT, Lakers March 7: Men’s basketball vs.

Shippensburg University (PSAC Semifinals): 59-51, Shippensburg March 7: Men’s lacrosse vs.

Molloy College: 17-9, Lakers March 7: Women’s lacrosse vs.

Tiffin University: 19-9, Lakers

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

SPORTS

PAGE 15

Softball spends spring break in Florida

By Alexis Lovewell

Contributing writer

Mercyhurst University’s softball team to a trip to Florida during spring break.

A business trip.

The team played a total of 10 games against several other schools which included Concordia College, University of the Sciences, Kentucky Wesleyan College, West Virginia Wesleyan College, Holy Family University, University of Mary, Cedarville University, The College of Saint Rose, Urbana University and Concordia University, St. Paul.

During the first day, the Lakers came out swinging, winning both of their games. For the first game, they played against the Concordia College Clippers and won 4-2. The second game was against the University of Sciences Devils. The Lakers were able to rally another win with a score of 6-2.

Against the Clippers, the Lakers took the lead in the second inning when junior Sarah Koscho drove home sophomore Cheyenne Hindman.

The Clippers came battling back in the sixth inning to take a 2-1 lead. Not long after, Mercyhurst freshman Brianne Egelston answered with a single to bring home Koscho and Hindman.

Sophomore Kaitlin Hoffner singled following Koscho and Hindman’s runs bringing in senior Emma LeGendre to secure a 4-2 win over Concordia.

Freshman Marissa Cartellone picked up the win on the mound during the first game. She was able to strike out two batters and only allow four hits.

These first few games showed

Ed Mailliard photo

Freshman Madison Fry, shown here in a 2019 game against Gannon, led the Lakers to a 6-2 win against the University of the Sciences in Mercyhurst’s second game of the Florida spring break trip.

both the opposing teams and fans a glimpse alike what this year’s roster is capable of. In addition, it also solidified to the new and returning Lakers what the team can accomplish together, Hindman said.

“We have a lot of new players this year and these games gave us an opportunity to get comfortable with each other and prepare for the season ahead,” she said.

In the second game against the University of the Sciences Devils, the Lakers locked away a 6-2 win early.

The Lakers’ bats were on fire during the second and third innings. Koscho hit a home run,

sending home Hindman and freshman Allison Dejidas.

LeGendre followed with a doubled to send home junior Natalie Graff.

Junior Jenna Balducci, Koscho and LeGendre all had two hits while Hoffner, Dejidas, Graff and freshman Madison Fry each had one hit.

Both Hindman and Hoffner performed well at the plate and shared the win on the mound, striking out five batters, allowing five hits and two runs.

“If someone struck out, the next person came up with a clutch hit,” Hindman said. “We played selflessly and leaned on

each other.”

The Lakers split the double-header the second day. They just got by the Kentucky Wesleyan Panthers, 3-2, but could not pull out the win over West Virginia Wesleyan, losing 10-0.

Hindman started the game against Kentucky Wesleyan by hitting a home run into left field.

Shortly after, the Panthers came back to take the lead.

Graff doubled down the leftfield line to bring in Koscho before Fry singled up the middle to score in Graff.

Egelston and Koscho went two-for-three at bat while Dejidas and Balducci had one hit

each.

Cartellone went the distance on the mound pitching four innings.

She struck out two batters, allowed two runs and six hits.

Hindman pitched three innings, striking out one and allowing one hit.

The second game against the West Virginia Wesleyan Panthers didn’t go the Lakers way.

However, Fry was able to go three-for-three at bat, Hoffner two-for-three and Koscho had one hit.

On March 3, the Lakers split the doubleheader.

The Lakers blasted Holy Family with a 10-2 win but were shut out against the University of Mary Marauders 3-0.

The Lakers ended up with six wins and four losses over the five-day period that they played.

“We showed daily improvement this week in Florida,” coach Leanne Baker said. “Each game we were able to grow, whether the result of the game was a win or a loss.”

The Lakers said they are excited to continue to see results back up North during throughout the rest of their season.

“It [the Florida trip] gave us a good opportunity to see what we need to work on, but also showed us what we’re capable of doing and I’m really excited to see what we can continue to do as a team up North,” said Fry. The Lakers’ first PSAC season game will be played on March 14 at the Mercyhurst Softball Field, time is still TBA. They will compete in a doubleheader against the Clarion University Golden Eagles.

Men’s wrestling makes it to nationals

By Laren Reesman Staff writer

On Feb. 28, Mercyhurst University hosted the NCAA Super Region 1 wrestling tournament.

The Mercyhurst wrestling team competed in hopes of qualifying for the NCAA Championships in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Six Mercyhurst wrestlers earned spots in the Championships: Logan Grass, Luke McGonigal, Jacob Robb, Alexis Soriano, Eric Bartos and Michael Clark.

All six finished in the top three in their weight class.

Many were surprised by the Lakers’ performances and the numbers that qualified for the Championships.

While the Lakers dominated their entire season with 11 wins and five losses, they struggled in the conference with four wins and three losses.

Even those who did not place to advance to nationals found spots on the podium in 5th and 6th.

Two of the qualifiers, Robb and Soriano, both agreed that

the Super Region tournament was the best performance for the wrestling team all season.

“A lot of our guys had to beat somebody that they had previously lost to… and they stepped up,” Robb said.

Many competed keeping both their individual and the team expectations in mind.

“Coach talked to us the day before prior to regionals and we just understood what he wanted us to do,” Soriano said.

Soriano noted that the entire team was motivated and revved up going into the tournament.

Overall, the team energy led to a great performance by Mercyhurst at home.

The six qualifying athletes are now preparing for the NCAA Championships on March 13 and 14.

Training and experience are instrumental in competing at the next level, they said.

When asked about their preparation tactics, Robb and Soriano have similar approaches.

Soriano said he intends to go about it in the way that he approaches all matches and tournaments: feel good and wrestle

well in the moment.

Robb said the team have prepared since August and success comes down to those past practices, matches and tournaments.

“Really, all we can do is be confident and rely on our training,” Robb said.

The wrestlers and Wehler said they are happy to have a chance to share the national-championship experience as a team as they head to Sioux Falls.

March 13-14, Pinehurst, N.C.: Men’s golf vs. Indiana U. of Pennsylvania

LET’S GO, March 14, MU Saxon Stadium @ noon: Men’s lacrosse vs. Seton Hill U. LAKERS!

March 14, Westwood Racquet Club, Erie @ 3:30 p.m.: Men’s and women’s tennis vs. Roberts Wesleyan College

PAGE 16

LAKER LIVING

Wednesday, March 11, 2020

HURST TOON Student-drawn cartoon by the Chuckler