The Merciad October 12 Issue

The Merciad

Hurricane Ian devastates Florida

By Bella Lee Staff writer

Hurricane season in the Unit ed States typically lasts from the beginning of June to the end of November. This is when the coasts of the U.S., especially the Atlantic Coast, brace themselves for lengthy periods of rain and wind. Fortunately, many of these storms don’t reach that strength, but Hurricane Ian, which formed on Friday, Sept. 23 and dissipated on Saturday, Oct. 2, was a prime exception this year.

As of Saturday, Oct. 8, at least 119 people have lost their lives to Hurricane Ian, making it the deadliest storm to hit Florida since the 1935 Labor Day hurri cane.

The damage has been bad enough that Florida Department of Law Enforcement Commis sioner Mark Glass, confirmed that the Florida Emergency Mor tuary Response System (FEM

ORS) was activated to help with body recovery after the devastat ing storm.

The last time FEMORS was used was in July 2021 following the collapse of Champlain Tower South in Surfside, which claimed the lives of 98 people.

“The rapid and accurate iden tification of mass fatality victims is of critical importance to any disaster mitigation operation. Issues of probate cannot be re solved until a death certificate has been issued by the Medi cal Examiner,” according to the FEMORS website.

“FEMORS was created to serve the needs of Medical Ex aminers in their mission to bring dignity and professionalism to caring for the deceased.”

The duties of FEMORS in clude initial scene response and evaluation, processing the scene, temporary morgue operations and administration, various fo

rensic units within the morgue, victim identification, disposition of human remains, personal ef fects and evidence collection.

Citizens have perished due to drowning, lack of medical ser vices and other issues due to Hurricane Ian.

As a Category 4 hurricane, Ian slammed into Florida’s Gulf of Mexico coastline with winds as high as 150 mph, tearing homes and businesses to shreds.

Lee County was one of the most devastated counties in Flor ida, with the bridge to Fort My ers being leveled.

However, this was possibly due to the county delaying ordering residents to evacuate for more than a day, despite warnings from meteorologists that it would see “life-threatening” flooding.

As a result of Lee County de laying evacuations, residents were unable to evacuate until Tuesday, Sept. 27, just a day before land

fall.

The National Hurricane Cen ter had issued a warning that storm surges up to seven feet could hit, but the area ended up seeing surges as high as 18 feet, contributing to many of the deaths.

At a press conference, County manager Roger Desjarlais said, “We did consider calling for an evacuation yesterday. But given the uncertainty of the path, the timing just wasn’t right.”

This was especially apparent in areas like Sanibel and Fort My ers Beach, where many residents stayed despite the warnings, cit ing late changes to the tracking of the hurricane.

Florida’s Governor Ron De Santis backed them up, saying, “As that track started to shift south in the computer models the next morning, they called for the evacuation, they opened their shelters and they responded very

quickly to the data.”

DeSantis also lashed out at the media for continuing to, in his words, “cast aspersions” by ask ing questions about the timing of the evacuation.

Over 1 million people were left without power as this storm tore through.

Damage was also seen in the form of power loss and some flooding in the Carolinas and Virginia, but Florida bore the brunt of the storm.

Hurricane Ian was truly a dev astating natural disaster. It wasn’t even that long after Hurricane Fiona devastated residents in nearby Puerto Rico, leaving two areas reeling.

Be sure to check your local news and websites to find out how you can contribute to their causes and help these people to recover.

The New Yorker photo

Image of the devastation that Hurricane Ian left behind in Florida.

Emerging leaders workshop is a success

On Sunday, Oct. 9 and Tues day, Oct. 11, students had the opportunity to attend the Emerging Leaders Workshop.

This is hosted by the level 3 students of Leadership Devel opment Program (LDP).

This is a program designed to encourage students to find their strengths and work on empha sizing them rather than “fixing” their weaknesses.

Students who attended the emerging leaders workshop were able to get a sneak peak into what being a part of LDP is like.

Senior, music therapy major, Kaitlyn Morris is currently com pleting level three of LDP and was facilitating this workshop along with Colby “C.J.” Lean

dro, Lindsey Cain and Samantha Weber.

Morris said, “LDP has been a great experience for me and I have loved getting to learn more about my leadership style as it will be helpful further down in my career.”

Katie Neely, Leadership and Outreach Coordinator of the Campus Involvement center oversees LDP.

Neely said, “It has been so fun watching these four students grow as leaders and now plan ning and running a workshop. I can’t wait to see why the future holds for LDP.

If students are interested, they can apply before Oct. 20 at tinyurl.com/ldphub19.

Baseball camp excites for upcoming season

By Megan McKay Staff writer

Over the weekend, the base ball team brought in a lot of tal ent for their Fall Skills Prospect Camp.

On Sunday, Oct. 9, the Mercy hurst baseball program invited high school and junior college players to the newly renovated Mercyhurst Baseball Field.

In addition to the Lakers coaching staff and players, coaches from other local univer sities and area pro-scouts were invited. Prospects checked in throughout the day starting with pitchers in the morning and po sition-players in the afternoon.

Players were tested in multiple areas including arm strength, defensive ability, hitting ability, pitching ability, and home to first base run time.

Along with instructions and tips in various aspects of the game from high level players, prospects also received an eval uation from the staff.

Associate Baseball Head Coach Charles Spano described some of the activities done at the camp.

“The camp is a great oppor tunity for high school aged stu dent-athletes to work out and visit our campus. They went through some of the same drills we do during our practices, and we took them through a prostyle workout to finish,” Spano said.

Mercyhurst players also served a crucial role for the prospects.

Laker first baseman Tim Quinn sees value in new players coming to spend the day with the team as they are exposed.

“It is a really great opportuni

ty for young players to showcase themselves in front of college coaches and to get good experi ence in a stressful environment. It is a great opportunity for ath letes to get exposed for the first time but also learn a lot from college players and work with high level coaches too,” said Quinn.

The camp is not only a chance for young players to work on their skills, but it is an opportu nity for the Lakers to build their team.

“We have campers every year that end up coming to Mercy hurst. It’s a great experience for everyone involved,” said Spano.

Mercyhurst’s baseball season will begin in late February but the team has already been busy training hard in the off season and getting in fall ball exhibition games. They have played exhi

bition games against Penn State Behrend and Youngstown State in addition to daily practices..

“It is always so much fun coming in with a new group and feeling the new competi tion within our team, and we are a team that loves to compete, especially against each other at practice,” Quinn said. “We all love to challenge each other to do better and do more, because at the end of the day we all want the best for each other. The off-season is the perfect time to improve as we look forward to the spring,” said Quinn.

Mercyhurst baseball is looking to build off a successful 20212022 season where the team re corded a 31-18 overall record.

Coach Spano mentioned that the team’s offseason has been going really well.

“We will have a whole new

starting lineup so workouts have been very competitive with a lot of positions up for grabs,” said Spano. “We have a lot of young talent and the coaching staff is really excited to see who emerg es as a starter.”

Spano is looking to the re turning pitching staff to step up and guide the team to another successful year.

“Our pitching staff has a lot returning so we will look to them to lead us as we begin the season and make a run at an other playoff appearance,” said Spano.

Laker Athletics is having an impressive year already and the Mercyhurst community can hardly wait to see what is in store for the winter and spring sports this coming year.

Dance Department hosts Halloween “boo”-tique

By Maddie Sipos Contributing writer

On Saturday, Oct. 8, the Dance Department hosted a costume “boo-tique” from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Zurn Hall, right in time for Halloween.

Jennifer McNamara, MFA, assistant Dance professor, and Claudia Potocki, ward robe mistress, spent copious hours sorting through Mercy hurst’s two-level costume loft, where they determined which costumes from past Opera and Dance performances they would either keep or find a new home for.

First, they sought out the costumes that were no longer in good condition and disposed of them. Then, they reorga nized and relabeled the cos tumes that are still in use.

With the costumes that the department no longer had use for but were still in good condi tion, they decided to sell them

as a fundraiser for the Dance Department.

Because the pieces were mostly for theatrical use, Mc Namara figured that this would be a great opportunity for Mer cyhurst students to buy afford able pieces for their Halloween costumes.

The costume boutique was an excellent opportunity to get essential pieces for Halloween costumes.

There was plenty to choose from for a bargain price.

Tables were situated at the entrance to Zurn Hall with a plethora of t-shirts, dancewear, purses, headpieces and other accessories.

Racks of sweaters, pants, dresses and shoes were lined up against the windows of the dance space.

Dance majors came from their Saturday ballet class to peruse leotards, wrap skirts and leg warmers.

Various hats, animal tails and

other eccentric accessories were for sale. However, just because these pieces were all from stage performances does not mean that there were not any civilian clothes for sale.

There were boxes of t-shirts, sweaters, shorts, and jeans that can be worn in everyday life. The clothing ranged from last semester’s jeans to a pastel 1940s style play-suit.

Even shoes were available for purchase. There were sneakers, slippers and high heels, all in good condition. The clothes that were not sold will be do nated to dance studios in the Erie area.

The proceeds from the cos tume boutique went toward the Dance Department’s produc tion budget.

The two fall semester perfor mances, “Grace and Gravity” and “‘Tis the Season,” will be the department’s top priority.

There is a great deal that goes into a production financially,

and it is important that each dancer performing has a cos tume fit for the stage.

The money made from the old costumes will be used for new costumes.

New pieces are being set for “Grace and Gravity,” and “‘Tis the Season” is featuring a newly choreographed Act II of “The Nutcracker,” which means that both productions require new costumes.

“We’re really excited to per form ‘The Nutcracker’ this year because it is newly cho reographed. I have the role of Sugar Plum and I’m just excit ed to have the chance to take on such an iconic role and to hopefully do it justice. We’ve all been working super hard so I hope that people enjoy the per formance,” said junior Dance major Grace Mullins.

Any leftover funds will be al located to costuming for “Raw Edges XXV” this spring. Each of the seniors on the BFA track

will choreograph their cap stone piece, each with different themes, therefore calling for different costumes.

Lots of quality pieces were purchased from the costume boutique, so expect beautiful costumes in future Dance De partment performances.

Rehearsals are underway for upcoming dance performances, so consider supporting some fellow classmates and neigh bors by attending a perfor mance.

Mercyhurst’s Dance program is one of the most popular pro grams of choice for students, many of which come from across the country.

By hosting a costume bou tique, the Dance Department was able to spread seasonal joy and help out others while also promoting the dedication and hard work that they have been putting into this year.

Contributed photo

Photo of the first ice breaker that participants did to get to know one another.

Merciad

A MINUTE

Enjoy Fall Break

Have a safe and restful fall break, Lakers!

Just a reminder to fill out the form on SelfService to let Residence Life know if you will be staying on campus for break or going home.

Take some time to practice self-care and to recharge before the second half of the semester.

Make smart choices and enjoy the beautiful fall weather.

UAskHurst

Download UAskHurst for real-time campus security. It is like the blue light that comes with you.

It comes equipped with two panic buttons, plus you can share your location with others.

You are also able to store emergency information in the app. Resources and support are available through this as well.

Consider adding this safety feature onto your phone.

Study Studio

Hosted by Academic Support, the Study Studio is open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4-8 p.m. in Zurn 313.

This is a great place for students to work both independently and collaboratively.

By studying in a place with your peers, you may discover some new study strategies or get help in a subject that another student is excellent in.

Consider stopping by and gaining some academic motivation.

Leadership development program

LDP Level 1 creates a strong foundation of leadership skills. Meet other students, learn about yourself and build lifelong skills.

Visit tinyurl.com/ ldphub19 to apply.

Deadline to apply is Oct. 20 so don’t wait too long. Consider growing as a leader in preparation for post-graduation life!

An evening of discussion with author, journalist, social observer Lebowitz

By Bella Lee Staff Writer

On Thursday, Oct. 6, members of the Mercyhurst community were able to spend an evening with crit ically acclaimed author, journalist and social observer Fran Lebow itz, thanks to the Mercyhurst Insti tute of Arts and Culture (MIAC).

The event consisted of an interview between Lebowitz and Brett Johnson, Ph.D., MIAC artistic director and Mercy hurst Theatre Program director

Lebowitz closed the evening with an interactive Q&A session with the audience and a book signing.

Lebowitz’s interview and Q&A session were noth ing short of entertaining.

A New York City resident, she explained that whenever someone is telling you how far two locations are from one an other, it’s never from Point A to Point B; rather, it’s how far New York City is from Point B.

“You could even be in Mo rocco, and if you’re being told how far it is from Nigeria, it’s how far from New York City, not from Morocco,” Lebowitz joked.

When an audience member asked if Lebowitz would rather fall into sand or water if she were to slip on a banana peel, she said she would rather fall into sand because “I would rather dust off my clothes than wring them out.”

When another audience member asked if kids these days

are getting dumber, Lebowitz answered that the kids are not getting dumber, but rather that the schools are getting worse.

Lebowitz was first noticed by Andy Warhol and worked for In terview and Mademoiselle before her first book, a collection of essays titled “Metropolitan Life,” which was a bestseller alongside her sec ond collection, “Social Studies.”

The two collections were com bined in a book titled “The Fran Lebowitz Reader,” which au dience members were able to purchase prior to the show and have signed by Lebowitz herself. Additionally, she wrote a children’s book in 1994 titled “Mr. Chas and Lisa Sue Meet the Pandas.” She was recently

seen in a Martin Scorsese-di rected documentary series ti tled “Pretend it’s a City,” which premiered on Netflix in 2021.

She has also been seen in var ious documentary films includ ing the “American Experience” series on New York City, as well as “Mapplethorpe: Look at the Pictures (2016),” “Regarding Su san Sontag (2014),” and “Super star: The Life and Times of Andy Warhol (1990),” among others.

Besides writing, Lebowitz has seen her fair share on TV and in film. From 2001 to 2007, she played Judge Janice Goldberg on “Law & Order” and she also appeared as the Honorable Sa mantha Stogel in the 2013 film “The Wolf of Wall Street.”

Her tendency to play judge roles was something she joked about during her interview with John son, explaining that she had many real-life judges reach out to her, praising or criticizing her performance, and stating that she actually owned three gavels and a robe from former judges. Overall, Lebowitz’s time with the Mercyhurst community was witty, hilarious and a great opportunity for those who were able to attend.

The next MIAC event is on Wednesday, Oct. 26, when Michael Feinstein comes to Mercyhurst to celebrate the Judy Garland centennial.

ROTC cadets run 10 miles in Washington D.C.

By Eva Mihelich News Editor

Seven Mercyhurst ROTC ca dets took a trip to Washington D.C. to run in the Army ten-mil er.

This is a yearly event that oc curs each October and is orga nized by the U.S. army.

Cadets were given the chance to try out for a spot on the team.

The Army Ten-Miler is actually the second largest ten mile race in the country.

These seven students had a jam-packed weekend.

They traveled early on Satur day morning and then were able to explore the city on Saturday afternoon.

They got a good night of rest before running the 10 miles on Sunday morning. It was a quick turnaround trip, because they left shortly after the race to return home to the Hurst.

Bethany Jentz, junior Intelli gence Studies and Political Sci ence major, shared that it was her first time ever being in Washing

ton D.C.

“We got to D.C. on Saturday and were able to spend the day sightseeing which was really fun because it was my first time there.

“Sunday morning was the race and it was such a great atmo sphere running through the city. Everyone was energetic and en couraging which really motivated me to do my best and keep run

ning.

“I loved seeing the variety of people coming together to run the 10 miler in support of the Army,” said Jentz.

ROTC is a vigorous program that requires a lot of dedication and perseverance.

Fitness plays a large part in the program which is why events like these are so crucial for cadets to

go to in order to gain experience and endurance.

“Now I know I can run 10 miles, which I honestly never thought I could do,” said Jentz.

This was a great experience for the cadets and they all learned some valuable lessons and got to show off their strength and en durance.

Lilly English photo

Six Mercyhurst cadets and one Gannon cadet pose in front of the Washington monument as they walk around Washington D.C.

Contributed photo

Acclaimed author, journalist, and social observer Fran Lebowitz.

First female coach in Laker football makes Mercyhurst history

By Megan McKay Contributing writer

The new defensive line coach for Mercyhurst football is making history on field and off the field.

Coach Kalleigh Burke is the first female coach in history on the football team. She is a graduate assistant and has become a great asset to the team.

Kalleigh Burke is from Mur rayville, Illinois, a small town in downstate Illinois about an hour and a half from St. Louis. She graduated from a small catho lic high school and attended the University of Notre Dame where she studied finance and Spanish. Burke was no stranger to sports growing up, she played many throughout high school and even volunteered to help as a coaching assistant for the football team. Burke described how she got into coaching and football saying, “Football has always been a huge part of my family.”

She attributes her sparked in terest in the sport through her dad’s passion for both players and the sport. While at Notre Dame, Burke was a student manager for the football team and described having a very positive experi ence. Burke did not just become inspired to coach while at Notre Dame, but she also formed con nections that opened the door for her eventual position as a defen sive line coach. She knew after talking with Head Coach Rieme dio and defensive coordinator Coach Dempsey Mercyhurst was the place she wanted to be.

It’s unfortunate women have had to jump through barriers to even be questioned for predom inantly male roles. However this was not the case for Coach Burke as her credentials spoke for them selves. Coach Riemedio described how it should be when deciding if a coach is qualified for a posi tion which is clearly not a matter

of being male or female but rath er being a good person, cohesive with staff, and overall knowledge of the game. Coach Riemedio said “After my first phone call with Coach Burke, I knew she was the best candidate for the job. She checked off all the boxes that I was looking for in a coach on my staff.” As a graduate assis tant Burke works as a full posi tion coach. She is responsible for running meetings with her unit, planning and conducting prac tice drills, and performing typical coaching responsibilities on game days. When preparing for game plans she helps run scouting re ports and works closely with the defensive coordinator. To no sur prise Coach Burke’s work ethic, willingness to learn, and teaching

ability have made her a great fit for her position group and de fensive unit, Riemedio empha sized. Not only does she fulfill all her coaching responsibilities but has been greeted with a pos itive and respectful culture. Burke said, “Coach Rimedio and Coach Dempsey have really made the transition easy and created a cul ture that is really easy to buy into. My favorite part of coaching is getting to work with them every day and watch them grow both as people and as players.” She attri butes her unit to being a special group of players and people with a lot of talent and the right atti tude. Burke is an example of how great of an impact passionate and driven coaches have on a team no matter what the status quo wants

LAKER MOMENT

to believe.

Coach Burke however is not the only coach who is breaking down barriers. Head Coach Riemedio is the first Filipino American Head Football Coach at the NCAA Level. Prior to being named Head Coach, Riemedio had a very suc cessful coaching career under for mer Head Coach Marty Schaetzle for ten years. Riemedio was also hired as a graduate assistant in 2012 and graduated from Minot State. After 20 years Coach Schaet zle announced his retirement and left the program in great hands. Coach Riemedio is not just highly qualified but he is also making a difference. Both Coach Rieme dio and Burke are breaking down glass ceilings and rightfully prov ing no matter what race, color,

national origin, sex, and religion there are opportunities and qual fiied candidates for any position. Coach Riemedio has just started his first season as Head Coach and became the first coach in pro gram history to record such a high success first game. However, like the great coach he is Riemedio said, “It’s been great to start the season like we did, but we are only as good as our last game.” Rieme dio attributes the team’s early suc cess to the student-athletes on the team who have instilled a positive culture and mentality to complete the work ahead.

Over the weekend Mercyhurst welcomed alumni back home for an exciting and eventful weekend. Football’s homecoming game was one of the main events of the weekend. Coach Riemedio said prior to kickoff, “We are excited to welcome back all the alumni to campus. Homecoming is always a special game.” Both coaches how ever described the importance of maintaining the same goals and expectations going into the week end. With a record of 2-2 and the teams focus going into Saturday was nothing but high level prepa ration. Unfortunately in a hard fought battle the Lakers fell Sat urday 13-16 against Edinboro of the University of Pennsylvania.

You can’t win every game and despite the loss Coach Rieme dio and Coach Burke are proof of how far chasing your dreams takes you and not being afraid of breaking down barriers. With hard work, determination, and grit, dreams do come true and Mercyhurst is so lucky to have such impactful and groundbreak ing leaders in our community. We wish Mercyhurst football the best of luck in the remainder of their season.

The majors and minors fair on Oct. 5 was a MAJOR success! Within the first ten minutes, the student union was packed with excited students. All academic departments were represented at the fair, filling all three floors in the student union. The fair was not only filled with sweet information about potential majors and minors, but it also had sweet snacks and beverages such as M&M’s, popcorn, and punch. It certainly was an event enjoyed by all! This is a great opportunity for students to learn more about potential major options at MU.

Contributed photo

Graduate assistant, Kalleigh Burke is a position coach for the Lakers football team. She is seen here hyping up the players during a practice.

Sarah

RSCO FEATURE LATIN AMERICAN AND SPANISH STUDIES

By Bella Lee Staff writer

Are you passionate about other cultures? Do you wish you could learn more about things such as Hispanic Heritage Month more than just during the month? Do you want to learn more about the languages and traditions that surround the Hispanic community?

If your answer to any of these questions was yes, you might be interested in the Latin American and Spanish Studies Association, or LASSA.

LASSA is a club that focuses on the language, cultures, and traditions of Latin American and Spanish communities.

LASSA is open to all Mercyhurst Students, including Spanish majors and minors, Spanish speakers of all levels, and anyone who wants to learn more about Hispanic language and culture. Activities include movie and game nights, food and festivals, and guest speakers and panels.

Additionally, LASSA is planning on creating a book club for students that would meet about once a month and encourage student dicussions about other cultures.

In the past year LASSA has done an empanada cooking event, partnered with MAC/SAC to host a dance and gone to La Chona Movil, which is an authentic Mexican food truck.

“We are currently planning a book club and hope to host speakers about studying abroad in various Spanish-speaking countries,” said Ally Burrington, senior Psychology major with a Spanish minor and President of LASSA.

Like other culture-based clubs on campus, such as Black Students for Unity (BSU), it is important for LASSA to have a mark on campus, especially considering how small the Hispanic population is on campus.

“It is important to know about LASSA because it is important to expand your knowledge of culture,” said Burrington.

“LASSA encompasses all Spanish-speaking cultures, so there are many rich cultures that we can learn about and appreciate, whether you know Spanish or not. Experiencing traditional food, games, dances, and much more helps us to expand our understanding of people so we can all be more inclusive and knowledgeable.”

Sophomore Intelligence Studies major Kaylee Moffitt adds “this club has shown me that there are other students who enjoy learning Spanish and want to explore Spanish cultures in full. I have a lot of fun being in this club and encourage anyone remotely interested to come check us out.” said Moffitt.

LASSA is open to everyone not just Spanish majors and minors, so you can attend meetings and join if you are interested! Meetings occur in the Multicultural Student Lounge, so go onto Laker Launchpad if you want to join LASSA!

MEOW marches for breast cancer awareness month

By Nadine Fox Staff writer

October is breast cancer awareness month. Every October, during the fall sea son, people from all over the world show their support for everyone who is affected by breast cancer.

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, “1 in 8 women in the Unit ed States suffer from Breast Cancer. Although it’s more rare, men can get breast can cer too. Breast cancer is one of the most common can cers in women, other than skin cancer. It is estimated that there are over 3.8 mil lion breast cancer survivors in the United States.”

How doctors believe breast cancer starts to de velop according to the Mayo Clinic, is when breast cells begin to grow abnormally.

“These cells begin di viding more rapidly than healthy cells do and contin ue to accumulate, forming a lump or mass.”

These cells can start to spread from the breast to your lymph nodes or to oth er parts of your body if not caught early.

Posted on the American Cancer Society website,

“when breast cancer is de tected early, and is in the localized stage, the 5-year relative survival rate is 99%.

Early detection includes doing monthly breast self-exams, and scheduling regular clinical breast exams and mammograms.”

It’s important to spread awareness to hopefully catch some of these symptoms early and prevent them from turning life threatening.

Every person should know the symptoms and signs of breast cancer, and any time any abnormality is discov ered, it should be further observed by your doctor or a healthcare professional. Knowledge and early detec tion can save lives.

This month of October is meant to focus attention on spreading awareness and ed ucating people on what they can do to be proactive with their breast health which is extremely important.

On campus, the Mercy hurst Equality of Women (MEOW) club, which is run by President Ashley Barret ta and advised by Michelle Scully ran a bake sale in the Student Union Great Room earlier this month.

The proceeds from the bake sale will be donat

ed and go towards helping women with breast cancer.

Following the bake sale, the club hosted the “March for Breast Cancer Aware ness” on Oct. 5, outside of the Student Union with par ticipants encouraged to wear pink to show their support.

Different ways to get in volved outside of our local campus are donating to re search, volunteering at dif ferent programs, and fund raising to provide education about breast health, free re sources and screenings.

Substantial support for breast cancer awareness and research funding can help create advances in the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

Breast cancer survival rates have increased, and the number of deaths associat ed with this disease are con tinuing to steadily decline. Please consider supporting breast cancer awareness month.

CLASS CATALOG: LANGUAGE & CULTURE

By Bella Lee Staff writer

In the REACH curriculum, there’s a variety of classes that one can take. For the Humans in Connection (H) it’s among the most widespread. One class that is often taken when it’s offered is the ANTH 107 course, Language and Culture.

Currently taught by Dr. William Meyer, assistant professor of Anthropology and Archaeology, this course is offered every spring. It is designed to introduce students to the complex study of language and its role in culture and society. It begins by examining what constitutes language.

“Language and Culture is about the interplay of language and culture,” Meyer said. “We ask questions about how our culture influences what we say and how we say it, as well as questions about whether the language we speak might shape our realities. We consider how symbols and stories work in the world, both in the past and in the present. We even consider what someone might be saying when they don’t think they’re saying anything at all.”

Although not a major portion of the class, language structure, including morphology and syntax, will be covered. It examines how language is used by different peoples to construct and maintain social values and relationships, worldviews and personal identities.

Some questions addressed throughout the semester include: How do children acquire linguistic competence in their language? How is language used by people of different genders, ethnicities, socioeconomic classes and geographical placement?

This course is primarily lecture-based format, but students will have an opportunity to engage in their own anthropological linguistic fieldwork.

Language and Culture is a course that can go very well with nearly any other interest.

“The class is an introduction to linguistic anthropology —one of the four traditional subfields of American anthropology — and, as such, is required of all Anthropology/Archaeology majors,” said Meyer. “However, it is open to anyone and about half the seats are generally available to non-majors. It dovetails very nicely with courses taught in World Languages and Cultures (e.g., French, Spanish, Arabic, Russian, ASL, and Mandarin), as well as in English and Communications.”

Meyer enjoys teaching this class because, simply put, he’s a “language geek.”

“I have studied multiple ‘second’ languages and find that my brain works best when I am learning another language,” said Meyer. “Along the way, I have noticed subtle differences in the ways that people speak and think about the world, and I enjoy sharing these observations with the students in Language and Culture. I also enjoy challenging students to think about things they take for granted—like ‘does the color blue exist?’—or things they generally say and do without giving any additional thought to meanings and implications. Finally, the class naturally gives way to word games, which we play from time to time. So who wouldn’t love it?”

This class is offered every Spring, so both those who are in the major/minor and who aren’t have the opportunity to take this in Spring 2023. It’s a great chance to find something you might end up absolutely loving, so don’t miss out!

Looking back on the life of former President Carter

By Nicholas Klein Staff writer

Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter celebrated his 98th birth day on Saturday, Oct. 1. Let’s take a look back at the history of this influential president.

On Jan. 20, 1977, Jimmy Carter was sworn in as the 39th Presi dent of the United States. Carter is the longest-lived president in American history at the age of 98.

James Earl Carter Jr. was born on Oct. 1, 1924, in Plains, Geor gia, during the roaring twenties and under the administration of Calvin Coolidge.

He grew up on a peanut farm that, up until he was eleven years old, had no electricity, running water, insulation, or mechanized farming equipment. In fact, the young Carter almost never wore shoes, except in the winter, even to school.

His father, James Earl Carter, was an owner of an ice house (where he brokered peanuts), while his mom, Lilliam Car ter (nee Gordy), was a descen dant of French and Scotch-Irish slaveholders, who immigrated to Georgia in the 1830s following the Trail of Tears. She would later be brought to the White House during her son’s administration and even came to Josip Broz Ti to’s funeral in May 1980. She would later die in 1983.

In 1943, Carter arrived at An napolis, Maryland, where he went into the Naval Academy to fight in World War II.

Before he graduated as a na val officer in 1946, the war was already over for a year, which means that unlike the late George H.W. Bush, he did not see the war firsthand.

While at the academy, he met his future wife Rosalynn and they got married on July 7, 1946.

They are still married 76 years later. Together they have three sons: Jack, Jimmy Carter III and Donnel, and one daughter named Amy, who was only nine when her dad entered the White House.

In 1971, he became the gover

nor of Georgia, where he stayed for one term before leaving office in 1975, but not before he entered the 1976 election, determined to beat Gerald Ford.

He surprised most observers when he won the Iowa Caucus es in early 1976 and the general election later that year, due to his strength at sweeping the South away from the Republicans.

His campaign pledged that Car ter would do something against stagflation, reform American for eign policy (especially on human rights) and provide more environ mental protections.

Despite his flawed approach, es pecially in El Salvador, he at least made his human rights pledge more fulfilling than his predeces sors or even his successors.

His also gave the Sinai Peninsu la back to Egypt, in exchange for the recognition of the State of Israel. He was the first American president to visit Sub-Saharan Af rica, where he visited the country of Nigeria.

Carter also sharply reduced the dependence on foreign oil and kick started the transition to green energy.

Despite this, the country con tinued to go through “stagfla tion,” and at the very end of the decade, the Carter Administration oversaw the Iranian Hostage Cri sis of 1979.

After the ouster of the Shah and the installment of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Khomeini in sisted that Carter should extradite the Shah back to Iran so that the Shah could face justice.

However, Carter refused to ex tradite the ailing Shah, so the Ira nian students from the University of Tehran stormed the embassy on Nov. 4, 1979, taking the Amer ican officials hostage for 444 days until the very end of Carter’s term as president.

As a result, Carter was beaten in a landslide against Ronald Rea gan winning just over 10% of the states in the 1980 Election.

After he left the White House in 1981, he returned to Georgia, where he and his wife immedi ately started to plan “The Carter

Center.”

Opened in 1982, the Carter Center is a center that dedicates its efforts towards advancing human rights, peace and public health causes worldwide. Carter served on the board until 2020.

Thanks to the Carter Center, guinea worm, a parasite- related disease that comes from unclean drinking water, is almost com pletely eradicated.

In 1986, there were 3.5 million cases of guinea worm across 21 countries, mainly in Sub-Saharan Africa, however today, there are only six cases in two countries. As a result of the Carter Center, in 2002, Jimmy Carter won the No bel Peace Prize.

Even into his nineties, he was traveling internationally and vol unteered one week per year at the Habitat for Humanity until the COVID-19 pandemic.

In recent years, he has been go ing through health difficulties.

In 2015, he received a cancer di agnosis that he survived and four years later, he had a serious fall at home.

Today, he can no longer do in terviews and is in a wheelchair. Despite all of this, he is still able to speak out and monitor nation al and world events, such as the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

He also has been receiving words of encouragement from people across the world, who want to make the world a better place.

Jimmy Carter is no doubt one of the most remarkable men in American history. His transition from an impoverished peanut farm to being the President of the United States is inspiring to many hardworking Americans.

He currently lives in his birth place of Plains, Georgia, where he watched the Atlanta Braves beat the New York Mets four to two.

As of now, the best priority for him is to enjoy his remaining years of his life in his birthplace, alongside his family watching the Atlanta Braves.

Contributed photo

Picture of Former President Jimmy Carter the Oval Office of the White House.

Hurst football and hockey stand with Hilinski’s Hope

By Megan McKay Staff writer

October’s Mental Illness Awareness Week cumulated with World Mental Health Day and the third annual College Football Mental Health Week. The Mercy hurst community acknowledged these events in variety of ways.

Coinciding with Mental Health Week, the Hilinski Hope Foun dation has been a key curator in eliminating the stigma surround ed by mental health.

The foundation was started af ter Tyler Hilinski, a quarterback at Washington State, took his own life in 2018.

Tyler never showed any signs of depression or struggle which highlighted the lack of openness available especially in the college athletics community.

The foundation was established to honor his life and ensure ath lete’s never have to struggle alone.

The Hilinski foundation asked universities nationwide to partic ipate in mental health week by offering quality resources and letting student athletes know that their communities care.

“We are facing a growing cri sis. The situation is particularly difficult on college campuses, where many students are silently struggling with significant mental health challenges,” Tyler’s father, Mark Hilinski said.

Mercyhurst football was among the 120+ college football teams to join in on Hilinski’s Hope and Mental Health Week to raise awareness.

Mercyhurst football running back Dustin Shoaf has led his team on the field but he is also promoting a positive environ ment off the field.

As a captain, Shoaf described his role thus far throughout the season.

“Being a captain for a few weeks during this season, has al

lowed me to share with my team mates that it’s okay not to be okay. I’ve lost a best friend to the strug gle with mental health. It has had a big impact on a lot of our family and friends back home, and as a captain, I don’t need to hide any thing or shame away from open ing up about it or anything. Mer cyhurst football is a safe place and somewhere anybody in our com munity can go to for help.”

Shoaf mentioned as a program the team has done a great job pro moting open communication and checking in on players even when things seem ok.

Partaking in the Hilinski Hope Foundation’s mission, Mercyhurst football has promoted the im portance of changing the culture associated with mental health and preventing suicide among ath letes.

“I believe the foundation has given us athletes a different per spective on mental health. At the end of the day, we may be foot ball players and athletes on the field but we are people as well. It’s important for us to understand that whatever may be going on and the struggle we face, that it is okay to open up and let it out,” Shoaf said.

He continued by quoting Head Football Coach Ryan Riemedio in saying that ‘Closed mouths don’t get fed.’ This quote inspires the team to speak up and figure out what’s going on with one another.

Football was not the only pro gram supporting Hilinski Hope during Homecoming Weekend.

The men’s hockey had their home opener against Ohio State and in the third period prior to puck drop all present at Mercy hurst Ice Center took a moment of silence to show their support.

It was a somber moment as the teams, the officials and the 1,500 fans in attendance all raised three fingers in the air in silence.

The three symbolizes QB Tyler

Hilinski’s number while playing at Washington State.

The moment was a special time to remember Tyler and all those lost to suicide.

Associate Head Coach Greg Gardner of the men’s team de scribed the importance of con stantly raising awareness.

“A lot of student athletes are driven and have high expectations of themselves and that pressure can build,” Gardner said. “To be able to talk to a friend a coach or a family member when that pres sure is too high is priceless and helps the student understand that they are and will be ok.”

No matter what sport or level managing athletics and academics can be stressful.

Gardner described how the program has done a tremendous job supporting their athletes. Hockey and football have equally notoriously been sports that hide weakness or vulnerability.

However, sports have come along way in regards to mental health.

“I personally have seen a change in the last 10 years in both the recognition and openness of mental health stigma and we con stantly remind everyone that they are not alone with how they feel,” said Gardner.

The last decade mental health has truly come to the forefront and the issue has finally had a light shined on.

This season both the men’s, and women’s hockey teams and the football team will be sporting a purple and green ribbon with the number three on their helmets in honor of Tyler and his families mission to end the stigma.

Mercyhurst athletics and lead ers encompassed are truly paving the way for their community and saving lives.

THIS WEEK IN HISTORY

By Samantha Weber Editor in Chief

Historical Event: Oct. 8,

Great Chicago fire started after flames sparked in the Chicago barn of Patrick and Catherine O’Leary. The fire lasted two days and killed between 200-300 people. It de stroyed 17,450 buildings and left over 100,000 homeless.

rumor of how the fire got started was that a cow kicked over a lantern. However, there are speculations that it was either caused by humans or maybe even a comet caused the disaster.

Top 3 Songs This Week

According to Spotify’s Global Charts

1. “Bad Habit:” Steve Lacy

“Unholy:” Sam Smith and Kim Petras

3. “As It Was:” Harry Styles

On the Charts This Week 15 Years Ago

According to Billboards Charts

1. “Low:” Flo Rida

“Umbrella:” Rihanna

3. “Paper Planes:” M.I.A.

Top Artists Today Male: Harry Styles Female: Taylor Swift

Top Artists 7 Years Ago

Male: The Weekend

Female: Ariana Grande

Top 3 Podcasts This Week

According to Spotify

1. “The Joe Rogan Experience”

“Archetypes: Archwell Audio”

“Killed: Audio Chuck”

Top Grossing Films

This Week: “Smile”

Fifteen Years Ago: “Halloween”

Top 3 TV Shows on Netflix This Week

“Devil in Ohio”

“The Imperfects”

“Cobra Kai”

Top 3 TV Shows 60 Years Ago

“The Jetsons”

“University Challenge”

“The Beverly Hillbillies”

In the News:

“Some states are dropping their tampon tax”

“Mark Zuckerberg reveals new Quest Pro VR headset”

Contributed photo

The Mercyhurst men’s hockey team

fingers

bench.

‘Fall’ in love with autumn fashion

By Sarah Beck Staff writer

Now that the weather has fi nally flipped its switch to match the current season, we find fall fashion upon us.

This season is a personal favor ite of mine because of the fash ions that come along with it.

It is the perfect time to play around with your individual style because everyone else is, too.

So, this fall season, be expres sive with your fashion choices, mix prints, play with textures and explore the art of layering— it is the key to a perfect fall out fit!

When in doubt, go with a monochromatic look; it is a classic trend that is especially in this fall. In particular, all-black outfits are rocking the streets ev erywhere right now.

We are currently in that awk ward transitional time period where it is chilly enough for a light jacket but not quite cold enough to layer items on top of each other.

That’s why the mini skirt is the perfect trend for the current transition period. This piece of apparel isn’t for everyone, es pecially those who like to dress more conservatively. But, when styled correctly, it can be a real statement.

The mini skirt is coming back due to the massive insurgence of the Y2K trend that was especial ly popular on the spring 2022 runways.

Additionally, the Y2K trend is another reason why we are see ing a lot of denim mini and even micro skirts as well as full den im outfits, AKA the “Canadian Tuxedo.”

The best tip I can give you for styling a mini skirt is to balance tight garments with oversized ones. It will even out the pro portions of the look and make it look more complete.

Additionally, try to go with a tote bag on a day when you wear a mini skirt; backpacks tend to hike up the back of our mini skirts.

A new slant on the classic “sweater weather” phrase is tak ing that fall sweater staple and making it a sweater vest.

Think of it as swapping out pumpkin spice for maple in your fall-flavored latte.

Vests in general are a major trend this fall season, particu larly the puffer, sweater and suit vest.

In fact, this piece of apparel is the perfect addition to the fall layering formula. It is not only fashionable but also quite practi cal as it increases your core tem perature keeping you nice and warm in the fall chill.

One of the leading textures for

this Fall 2022 season is leather, which is a fabric that will almost never go out of style.

All-leather outfits have be come wildly popular.

If that is not your speed, a simple oversized leather jacket or blazer is all the rage this sea son. It will keep you both warm and stylish.

Consider switching up from the basic black leather too— brown and even a bright pop of color such as orange or green can be an iconic moment.

Let’s talk shoes, an aspect of an outfit that cannot be overlooked.

As Christian Louboutin once said, “A shoe has so much more to offer than just a walk.”

Of course, the staple fall shoe is a cute pair of boots, but we are seeing a variation in the tradi tional bean or ankle bootie.

A major trend this season is cowgirl boots, in a variety of heights and colors.

Additionally, any type of plat form shoe, especially platform boots, are reliable staple.

The brand Steve Madden has been gaining a lot of popularity this fall season for its many vari ations of the platform boot.

A general rule of thumb for boots this season is large and over the knee; think flair jeans in the opposite direction.

Lastly, a good chunky flat Mary Jane or loafer is another absolute must this fall, playing

into the trending dark and light academia aesthetic.

Bonus points if you add a pair of white socks or thigh-high tights to your shoe selection.

Accessories are truly what tie in your entire outfit, and this season we are seeing some unex pected choices.

For a while, Bluetooth ear buds were all the rage. However, we have started to see the pop ularity of over-the-ear Bluetooth headphones steadily increase, so much that they have become a bit of a wardrobe staple.

Another trending accessory for this fall season is legwarmers, especially in white. They tie per fectly into the trendy ballet-core aesthetic.

The great thing about all of these trends is that they can be applied to all different kinds of aesthetics and genders.

Fashion is fluid— no trend or piece of apparel is for any specif ic individual. Take the chance to try out a style that you wouldn’t typically go for.

Fashion is meant to be a form of expression; if your outfit brings you confidence and joy, it is the perfect outfit for you!

If none of these trends are your style, that is totally okay; trends are socially constructed, anyway. Fall fashion is whatever you want it to be.

The fashion industry is even noticing this change.

Trends cycle so quickly that almost nothing is specifically on “trend,” although we do see some styles and pieces more than others.

A very powerful figure in fash ion right now is Wisdom Kaye, an influencer who made his break on TikTok.

“Nothing is trendy because everything is trendy all at once. Everyone is wearing everything now,” Kaye said in one of his recent videos. “Because we don’t have to worry so much about what is trending right now in this particular time, we as peo ple can actually consume less.”

This makes it easy to hop onto trends by sourcing through local thrift or vintage stores because trends cycle from previous years.

Fall is truly the ideal time to add new pieces to your wardrobe from the thrift store because you can find vintage pieces that were made with thicker, more quali ty fabrics that will help you stay warm this fall.

Additionally, supporting local thrift and vintage stores helps to stimulate the local economy while also aiding in the decrease of one of the landfill’s largest contributors, textiles.

And you can find some cool and unique pieces that simply aren’t in stores anymore.

So, what are you doing? Stop reading and go put together some amazing fall outfits!

Photos from left to right: a sweater vest styled with jeans; white legwarmers styled with a mini skirt; platform boots with a chunky heel; full den im outfit, also known as a “Canadian Tuxe do.”

All photos contribut ed.

Hurst Hot Take: ‘Heartbreak High’ (2022)

By Emma Coppolo A&E editor

Reboots are always a tricky sit uation.

Whether it be following the original cast or introducing new characters, there is always poten tial for disaster.

One reboot that absolutely passed the test is Netflix’s “Heart break High”.

Set in an Australian high school,

this show takes you through the trials and tribulations of the teens’ lives.

Amerie and Harper, who are best friends, make a map on a wall at their school tracing relation ships and such throughout the school. After the map is discov ered, the people who are featured on it prominently are placed into a new course.

The people in the course have little connection other than their

anger in being there.

Along the way, though, they learn more and more about each other and themselves.

One major appeal of the show is its beautiful representation.

It has received much acclaim online for the portrayal of an au tistic character by an autistic ac tress.

Quinni, played by Chloe Hayden, provides a perspective that is rarely presented on televi

sion.

Another character, Sasha, con tinuously attempts to make things easier for Quinni.

In the process, she takes away some of her autonomy and sees her differently because of her au tism.

Hayden’s emotions when ad dressing this issue in-character are raw, and her performance is inspiring.

Additionally, Quinni’s best

friend is a nonbinary student named Darren.

Some of the scenes with Dar ren’s parents show such a positive example of acceptance.

My favorite part of the series is the little moments where the characters are truly happy.

For both these moments and the Australian accents, “Hear break High” is worth the watch.

Nostalgia Nook: Stories we remember

By Eva Phillips Staff writer

As I was scrolling mindlessly through social media the other day, an image caught my atten tion.

It was a picture of a book cov er: “The Mark of Athena” by Rick Riordan.

For a moment, I recalled how much I had enjoyed the book when I read it in middle school.

When I paused to read the caption, though, I was overcome with shock.

The caption revealed that ten years had passed since the book was released, and my immediate reaction was, “that’s not possi ble.”

And yet it was true.

A whole decade had passed since my vivid memory of preor dering the book and begging my mom to take me to Barnes and Noble to pick it up as soon as it was released.

It was a nostalgic moment, and it made me consider the other se ries I used to love.

First up is the “Magic Tree house” series, about a pair of sib lings who discovered a time-trav eling treehouse that could take them to any time and place.

Inevitably, they ended up at moments of historical disaster: the sinking of the Titanic, the Civil War, the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and more.

I discovered these books when

my older sister started reading them, and I would always comb the library’s shelves for new in stallments that I had not read.

Looking back, I credit these books for sparking my love of history.

Another classic series is the “Little House on the Prairie” se ries by Laura Ingalls Wilder.

These books carry a person al connection for me, since we kept the series on the bookcase in my bedroom so that my mom could read from them to me ev ery night.

It took us a while to get through the whole series, but I can still remember hearing about the trials and excitement of life on the frontier.

As I got older, my favorite book series became part of my friendships.

While I do not remember anything about the plot of the “Mysterious Benedict Society” series, I remember that my child hood best friend recommended the books to me and lent me her copy.

My fourth-grade classroom had a “Harry Potter”-themed chess set that was the most covet ed game for indoor recess.

In warm weather, we made up our own version of Quidditch to play outside— minus the flying brooms.

In middle school, at the height of the popularity of “The Hun ger Games,” we fiercely debated

whether Team Peeta or Team Gale was better.

Out of all these book series, Rick Riordan’s “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” series is the most nostalgic.

Nearly every year from the time I was in third grade up through eighth grade brought an addition to the series and its spinoff, “The Heroes of Olympus.”

My friends and I would discuss which ‘cabin’ we would be part of, with each cabin correspond ing to an Olympian god, and the books sparked our interest in Greek and Roman mythology.

The series gave us plenty to talk and joke about.

Even though I have lost touch with most of my elementary school classmates, the memo ries of good times still make me smile.

As sad as it is to say, it is harder now to find the time to pick up a book and read just for fun.

Usually, I can only find the time to do so during the summer or over Christmas break.

Maybe one of these days I can dig out my worn copies of “Percy Jackson” or “A Series of Unfortu nate Events,” letting the stresses of everyday college life slip away, even if it’s just for a few hours.

It might just be exactly what we all need in the midst of a stressful semester— to feel like a kid again.

Representation in media thrives high

By Mackenzie Zent Opinion editor

Every year, there is progress be ing made with media becoming more inclusive of LGBTQ charac ters and storylines.

Since the world is a diverse place, it is important to showcase this reality in TV and movies.

“Heartstopper” is a series on Netflix that came out in April of this year.

It is such a feel-good show and an easy watch as there are only ten episodes in the first season.

Based on a comic book series, the show follows 14-year-old Charlie Spring, who has been bullied for being one of the only openly gay students at his school.

Things start to heat up when he becomes friends with Nick Nel son, who he likes as more than a friend.

All of Charlie’s friends tell him that Nick is straight, and there is no way he has a chance with him.

Without giving too much away, Nick also has a storyline develop ing showing his growing feelings for Charlie.

The show has many scenes that pull on the viewers heartstrings and hit home to those who reso nate with Nick and Charlie.

Heartstopper accurately depicts

the excitement, fear, happiness and heartbreak that come with accepting yourself and falling for someone when you are queer.

Another show that may be pop ular for fall is “The Haunting of Bly Manor.”

The Netflix original came out in 2020, with the intent of the first season being its only season.

The story takes place in London

in 1987. Dani is an American girl who moved to England to be an au pair for two young kids at their home, Bly Manor.

Dani is haunted by the death of her ex-fiancé and sees him in mir rors and in front of her while she is going about her day-to-day life.

This is not the only frightening thing happening as Bly Manor holds secrets of its own.

While the show progresses, it becomes very clear that the place is haunted, and not everyone will make it out alive.

When Dani moves in, she meets the gardener, Jamie, who she has an immediate attraction to.

Running from the ghosts of her past, Dani follows her heart for the first time and falls in love with Jamie.

The love story between them is shown in such a beautiful and natural way.

Unlike a lot of queer shows, it is not a big deal that Dani and Jamie are together and there is never an official coming out scene.

While coming out scenes are important to be shown too, it is nice to see a lesbian relationship as not a huge plot point.

Just like any straight couple would not have to state that they are straight, Jamie and Dani never say that they are gay, but their love story is just as real.

This is really important for a lot of people because when someone feels different than everyone else, they can find it hard to picture themselves having a “normal” life.

Dani and Jamie’s love story is the perfect example of gay rela tionships being normal and nat ural.

With the amount of inclusion increasing in media, there is a character or storyline out there for everyone.

This representation is so mean ingful and shows people that no matter who they are, they are not alone.

Contributed photo

The final book in the “House of Olympus” series, The Mark of Athena.

Contributed photo

Dani (left) and Jamie (right) from Netflix’s “Haunting of Bly Manor”.

GOOD BAD HOPEFUL

OPINION

Let Grey’s Anatomy rest in peace

By Bella Lee Staff writer

“Grey’s Anatomy” has gone on for far too long.

The medical drama, which has been around since 2005, just entered its 19th season this past week. With all new stories and characters, it sounds like it should be interesting. However, this has been going on for the past 17 years, so it’s time the show finally gets its rest.

Each season is practically the same at this rate. New characters introduced, new plots that lead to the deaths of long-term or original characters, heartbreaking buildups or teardowns of relationships and cliffhanger after cliffhanger.

This plot line is literally only good for a single season, maybe two seasons if it’s written well enough. However, to do it for nineteen straight seasons?!? That’s just insane.

I’ve never even watched the show, and this is how I feel

about it, so imagine if this was someone who had seen the show and had been dedicated to the whole thing writing this instead. I am also aware that there’s a ridiculous number of deaths throughout the show, which I suppose you should expect in a medical drama, but it sometimes seems like there’s so many deaths occurring that you would question being admitted to the hospital where the show takes place.

I will say, out of the many deaths that I have heard of (BuzzFeed keeps me posted with all of this), the grand majority of them are very sad, especially if the one dying was a main character. However, for a medical drama, you would definitely think that the doctors could, I don’t know, be better at their jobs so not as many people would die. Again, I have a very rudimentary idea of what goes on in the show, so there’s a lot more that I don’t know that could very much change my opinion.

I will not deny that Shonda Rhimes is a brilliant writer.

She is the reason why “Grey’s Anatomy” has been able to last as long as it has, as well as the mastermind behind the success of shows like “Scandal” and “Inventing Anna.” It is a truly impressive feat considering black women are very uncommon in TV roles, let alone as screenwriters and/or executive producers. However, she should let “Grey’s Anatomy” go so that she has the chance to work on new shows and continue improving on existing shows.

“Grey’s Anatomy,” you’ve had a great run, but it’s time that you’re finally put to rest. You should have ended at least five years ago, but for who knows why, you’ve been kept alive like a brain dead patient on life support. We’ve loved you, but it’s finally let to let you go.

Navigating dining halls with food allergies should be easier

By Hailey Steidle Contributing writer

The Merciad

For students with food allergies at Mercyhurst, meals can be a source of stress and anxiety. Issues such as limited options, risk of crosscontamination, lack of signage and little to no information provided about our food options can often times create a sense of concern or fear within students who are attempting to keep themselves healthy and safe on campus.

dessert section will often have no options for anyone who is vegan, gluten-free, or nut-free. The same goes for the pizza station, Bravo, and the deli which all face the risk of crosscontamination for anyone with an allergy.

The Merciad

the official student-produced

of Mercyhurst University.

is published throughout the school year. Our office is in Hirt, Room 110.

The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor. All letters must be signed and names will be included with the letters. Although we will not edit the letters for content, we reserve the right to trim letters to fit. Letters are due Mondays by noon and may not be more than 300 words. Submit letters via email at merciad@ mercyhurst.edu.

The views

Being a student with a severe gluten intolerance on campus comes with an everyday struggle of deciding what would be the safest option for me to eat. Sections that the school has set up specifically with allergies in mind like the Clean Plate in Grotto will often offer the same few options day after day. Things such as grilled meat and steamed vegetables, which often lack seasoning and variety, are the only safe options for students.

Areas of Grotto like the

Other places around campus, such as the dining hall in Ryan, unfortunately offer no safe options. The Anchor Express in Ryan where alternatives are available to students with allergies, prices are more expensive, like the almost $2.00 upcharge for anything gluten-free. A lack of signage around the dining halls can also create a sense of confusion when deciding what to eat because often times we are unaware of what is in the food we are eating, and we can’t tell if the food would even be safe for us to eat.

As a junior who lives on campus, I am forced to have an unlimited meal plan for the entirety of my time spent living here. As a student who also lives with an allergy, I can’t eat the food that I have to pay for and instead I often find myself paying even more money in order to cook my own food in my apartment.

I understand how difficult

it may be to create options for those of us on campus who struggle with allergies, however, as someone who is also forced to pay for this unlimited meal plan I feel as though my money is going to waste because I cannot eat 90% of the food that is being offered to me. If I do want to attempt to get my money’s worth out of the meal plan, I run the constant risk of making myself sick.

All students with allergies are left either taking the risk of compromising our health and wellness so we can eat what we are being forced to pay for or eating the same meals day after day and feeling as if we are wasting our money.

Overall, allergy options around campus are either extremely limited or end up being difficult to locate which makes it almost impossible to eat what we are paying for.

break starts tomorrow!

is midterm week.

everyone can catch up on sleep over break!

Not enough acceptance for LGBTQ+ students on campus

By Scout Najpaver Contributing writer

October is LGBTQ+ history month, yet as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I feel as if there is not much being done to embrace and support us. I believe the solution is to better commemorate the history of how much the community has grown in the past few decades.

Of course we have the wonderful SAGA club and sometimes we have lectures voicing and lobbying for equality, however so far there has been a strange lack of LGBTQ+ education. For example, if you asked students on campus about the Stonewall Riots or who Marsha P. Johnson was, do you think they would be able to confidently answer? Would they be astonished by how many of their peers are part of the community?

Considering how many students on campus would consider themselves to fall under the LGBTQ+ umbrella, it is easy for these students to form alliances just as students who fall under shared similarities tend to click better.

But often times these students will still face some form of discrimination amongst their peers at some

point during their career.

For each step taken forward, there are three steps taken back. Whether this has to do with the current political climate or maybe the issues lie further within prejudice and how some were brought up, LGBTQ+ discrimination is still an ongoing problem.

According to a 2022 survey done by the AAU on sexual assault and misconduct, 60% of LGBTQ+ students said that they feared for their safety on campus due to their gender identity or how they are perceived on campus. 65% of those students have experienced harassment when they first entered college.

Having more than half of a marginalized community express safety concerns about a place that should feel exactly like home leaves nothing but the heavily dire need for improvement.

This begs the question of how we, as a Mercyhurst community, can stop the issues and further work towards an equal future alongside the LGBTQ+ community.

Firstly—and I cannot stress this enough—it would be beneficial for historical resources to be shared via news sources, fun facts, events— anything that teaches students about the struggles that the LGBTQ+ community has gone through to get to this point.

We need to emphasize that getting to this point of living out and about amongst the

public was paved by many notable icons and events such as the HIV/AIDS epidemic, the Stonewall riots and samesex legalization.

Obtaining rights was not an overnight accomplishment that secured rights for all, rather this was the beginning of a battle that leads up to today in the present.

Personally, I know what it is like to be discriminated against. As someone who identifies as both bisexual and gender non-conforming, it feels like a hassle to try and explain to others how I identify and having to explain why I identify as such. Many times I am shut out before it even begins with judgmental looks, hostile reactions or jests poking fun at the stereotypes within my community. I want these to change.

I want to be able to be fully accepted in my home, by my peers, free from judgment. I want to feel safe and that I have allies wherever I turn. This future is unobtainable without cooperation from my fellow students and much needed change.

HURST STUDENTS SPEAK UP

We asked: What is your favorite class this semester?

Sami Gendron, freshman psychology major: “My favorite class this semester is Intro to Psychology”

Jersey Phillips, senior intelligence studies major: “My favorite class this semester is Homeland Security. Professor Mauslein is one of my favorite intel teachers and is very knowledgeable on every topic he teaches.”

Thea Johannson, freshman sports business management major: “My favorite class this semester is Principles of Managment.”

Marielle Parks, sophomore biology and business economics double major: “My favorite class this semester is Physics.”

Autumn in Erie is highly underrated

By Sydney Dietz Sports editor

Growing up in Erie, I have always enjoyed the fall season. It is one of the prettiest seasons, especially when the leaves change color. Not only do I like fall because of how beautiful it can be, but I also enjoy many of the activities that keep me entertained during the season.

My favorite part of fall is Halloween, it is my favorite holiday. Therefore, I personally love the spooky activities that are offered around Erie. As a young child, my absolute favorite part of fall was going to Zoo Boo every year. Zoo Boo is a Halloween event offered at the Erie Zoo and it is open at night for kids to go trick-or-treating.

As I got older I started to enjoy haunted houses. Every year I would go to the haunted

hayride at Sparrow Pond located on Peach Street going towards Waterford. While on the hayride, many scarers, monsters and clowns would jump and try to scare everyone in attendance.

Although the hayride was fun, my personal favorite haunted house is Ghost Lake, 13 Levels of Fear. Ghost Lake is located in Conneaut Park, which is about 40 minutes away from Erie. However, this haunted house is worth the drive. There are 13 different haunted houses to walk through including a ride and the atmosphere puts you in the Halloween spirit.

There are more attractions that are not as scary such as the haunted mini golf at the Adventures Erie at Lake Pleasant. I have gone mini golfing here on Halloween for two years in a row and each time I have had a very pleasant experience.

Erie also offers many fall activities that do not involve

Halloween. The best pumpkin farm to go to is Port Farms located in Waterford, PA. This is the biggest and most popular pumpkin farm and is great for a weekend afternoon. Port Farms includes a giant corn maze, hay barrels, bikes, a hayride, warm cider, slides, a box full of corn and so much more. It is perfect for families, kids, and even college students.

Another great place to go is Mason Farms located on Peninsula Drive. Mason Farms has been a local business in Erie

for many years. There is a little store inside that includes food and decorations. In addition to that store, they also sell flowers, pumpkins and gourds. There is a very creative display of painted pumpkins presenting different movie scenes along with a corn maze, petting zoo, and play area for kids. Mason Farms is not a whole day event, all you need is an hour at most there.

If anyone wants to enjoy fall in Erie on a budget, there are many free activities offered as

well. Frontier Park is a great place to go take a walk and see the leaves change colors along with Wintergreen Gorge in Harborcreek.

Although Erie is mostly known for its sunny days on Presque Isle or the piles of snow that accumulate every winter, fall is a very underrated season in Erie. There are many activities to attend and so much to see and do. I am greatFALL for everything Erie has to offer during this season.

Compiled by Megan McKay

Sweet Caroline.... the Erie Otters won

By Megan McKay and Sydney Dietz Staff writer, sports editor

On Saturday, Oct. 8 the Erie Otters faced off against their big gest rivals, The London Knights.

Before the game, fans gathered in their Otters jerseys at the Erie Otters Fan Fest, which was a huge success. On the front lawn of the Erie Insurance Arena, fans en joyed a free concert from country singers Alexandra Kay, Hannah Ellis, and Royale Lynn. In addi tion, there were food trucks, tail gates, and tables set out for fans to enjoy before the season’s home opener.

Prior to the home weekend the organization named a new lead ership core for the team’s 26th season.

The veteran players named to the leadership core are looking to bridge the gap between old and new. Veteran defenseman Camer on Morton from Kingston, ON was named captain after being an alternate captain last season.

Morton enters his third season with the Otters. His physicality and dominant play on the back end looks to continue to lead this season.

“First off, I’m truly honored to be put in the position to help lead this team for the season,” said Morton in a press release from Erie Otters Hockey.

“I want to be a leader that shows up to the rink with something to prove, and leads by example atand-away from the rink.”

Alongside Morton, Elias Co hen will serve as full time alter nate captain. Cohen is a dynamic player and was one of the leading goal scorers on the team last year.

Forward Noah Sedore, and de fenseman Spencer Sova will also both serve as alternate captains while the team is home in their

white jerseys. Defenseman Chris tian Kyrou, and forward Carey Terrance will also serve as alter nate captains when the team is away in their navy jerseys.

Despite a promising presea son start, the Otters have come up short thus far this season in defeating opponents.

While away in Canada the team went 0-4. The Otters lost their season opener 5-4 in a shootout after having a two-goal lead in the third period. They then went to Kingston and lost 3-1 on a great goaltending performance by Kingston’s Ivan Zhigalov.

Finally last Sunday in Otta wa, the Otters fell short by a 4-2 score. Rookie Malcolm Spence scored his first goal as an Otter.

However, over the past week end the Otters finally found suc cess defeating their biggest rival, the London Knights, 3-1.

Fans filled the arena with great anticipation for the game. This home opener brought one of

the largest crowds for an Otters game.

The first 4,500 fans received a home opener rally towel that included the London Knights logo and Erie Otters logo. Addi tionally, there were home open er shirts being sold in the Otters Den, which is the merchandise store located inside the arena to get fans excited for the game. The shirt was a fan favorite and was seen being worn in the stands.

The puck was dropped at 7 p.m. The Otters starting lineup included forward Malcolm Spen ce, Brett Bressette, Sam Alfano, and defensemen Cam Morton and Christian Kyru.

The game started in the Ot ters favor when London center Easton Cowan received a penalty for hooking. While on the power play, at 2:03 in the first period, right winger Sam Alfano shot the puck and got it into the net for a goal. This goal was assisted by Kyru and Bressette.

The fans all stood up and waved their rally towels after the goal alarm went off. Then the Otters fans’ favorite song, Sweet Caro line, filled the arena. The crowd sang, “Sweet Caroline, London sucks.”

The energy from the crowd helped the team. The Otters had another powerplay, but could not get the puck past London’s goal tender, Brett Brochu.

Later in the first period cen ter Kaleb Smith scored another goal that was assisted by Nathan Sauder and Colby Saganiuk.

There were many fights in the game. The first fight happened at 11:47 in the first period. This fight was between Otter Owain Johnston and Knight Brody Crane.

London then obtained their first goal at 13:07 in the first pe riod. After the first intermission, the Otters were back on the ice and ready to play another period. Spencer Sova scored the Otters’

third goal of the night. This goal was assisted by Sauder, and left winger Noah Sedore.

In the middle of the second period, there was another fight resulting in a 10-minute miscon duct penalty for Captain Cam Morton and a five minute penal ty for Kyru.

However, despite the penal ties, London was unable to score. There was another fight in the third period that resulted in a London Knight gaining a five minute misconduct penalty.

The game ended with another fight and penalty. The Otters and the fans were elated for the home opener win. At the end of the game fans stood up and waved their rally towels to show support for the team. Goaltender Nolan Lalonde received the first star of the night saving 28 shots on goal.

Next Friday the Otter’s are back home Oct. 14 for College ID night at Erie Insurance Arena. The special promotional night means Mercyhurst student’s tick ets are just $10 with a valid Uni versity ID.

The Otters will host the Flint Firebirds at 7 p.m. Friday. The first 1,000 fans will receive a 2022-23 Season Schedule Mag net and to celebrate the end the workweek they can purchase $2 Bud Light Drafts during ‘Happy Hour’.

While Mercyhurst Women’s Ice Hockey is away playing RPI check out the Otters at Erie In surance Area while the Otters cel ebrate college students.

Hurst athletics welcomes a new sport

By Sydney Dietz Sports editor

The Mercyhurst Athletics De partment recently announced a new women’s sport called STUNT.

“We are so excited to add STUNT to Mercyhurst. Mercy hurst adding STUNT offers so much opportunity for not only incoming freshmen, but also for current students who are interest ed in the new sport!” said the As sistant Athletic Director, Allison Brace.

STUNT is a new sport that incorporates skills derived from cheerleading. STUNT is one of the fastest growing female sports in the country. The NCAA has announced that STUNT is classi fied as an emerging sport.

It removes the crowd-leading factor of cheerleading and focuses on the technical and athletic com

ponents of cheer.

It is an exciting head-to-head game played between two teams. Each team executes a skill base routine in categories such as part ner stunts, jumps, tumbling, pyr amids, tosses, and team routines. The teams must perform headto-head on the floor at the same time. The team that executes the best skills will win a point for that round and will also get the oppor tunity to determine which routine level will be called next.

“I’m looking forward to the opportunities this sport will add for the University, current and potential students, and within the NCAA,” said Brace.

Mercyhurst is one of about 60 schools across the country to wel come STUNT onto campus and is also the first school in Pennsyl vania to have a STUNT team.

“Mercyhurst being the first school in PA to have STUNT is

such a monumental statistic. We fully anticipate the addition of STUNT at Mercyhurst and in PA will lead to other schools adding the sport and helping it to grow,” said Brace.

When deciding to add STUNT as a women’s sport, Mer cyhurst had meetings with the co ordinators from USA Cheer and STUNT. The sport became even more appealing to Mercyhurst as the sport started to grow both at a collegiate and high school level.

“We at STUNT and USA Cheer are excited for Mercyhurst University to be adding a STUNT Program to their athletics depart ment,” said Amy Hansy, STUNT Director of Expansion and Media.

“With their mission of provid ing a top-notch student-athlete experience, we know STUNT will be another great opportunity for female athletes on their campus.”

“I think STUNT will be popu

lar for students who are interested in playing but will also spark in terest for spectators and students to watch! The sport is exciting to watch and I think people will look forward to learning about it and watching it happen!” said Brace.

Joining STUNT would be a great opportunity to get involved on campus. STUNT is a spring sport that will compete both weekends and weekdays February through May.

Students who are interested in joining STUNT can fill out the recruitment form on the Hurst Athletics website and will be con tacted by the coach upon hire.

Drury University photo

An example of a women’s STUNT team performing.

Erie Otters photo

Fans make their way into the arena as the Erie Otters and London Knights warm up for a very anticipated home opener game on Oct. 8 at the Erie Insurance Arena.

Men’s soccer defeats Golden Knights

By Megan McKay Staff writer

The Mercyhurst men’s soccer team kicked off the past week with a big win against Shepherd and Gannon over the weekend.

The Lakers are having a great start to the 2022 season and have proven to be an offensive force holding onto their spot at the top of the PSAC West standings.

The team is currently ranked number six in the nation and has continuously dominated their opponents on both sides of the pitch. The Lakers are currently 6-0 in the conference and have improved their over all record to 12-0-1 in the 2022 season.

Remaining undefeated is a daunting task but the Lakers are not stopping at their recent success.

Wednesday the team collect ed their seventh straight shut out against Shepherd 8-0. The Lakers applied pressure straight from the kickoff with 22 total shots, and had goals from soph omore Lockie Fay (2), sopho more Nic Munch, sophomore Sean Kerrigan, senior Tom Bar ry (2), and sophomore Thomas Binkowski.

Kerrigan, the midfielder from Sligo, Ireland has 25 points this season and Wednesday had a

goal and assist with five shots.

Kerrigan said after Wednes day’s game, “I feel like it was a good way to go into the week end, scoring eight goals and an all-around good performance from the whole squad. I think it’s important to stay focused though, as we’ve got an import ant game to look forward to on the weekend.”

Despite leading the team with 10 goals in 11 games played, the young midfielder is always working for the better ment of the team.

“Of course, it is nice to be the leading point scorer but it’s a team sport and if it weren’t for good team performances week in and week out, I wouldn’t be able to make these contribu tions,” said Kerrigan.

“My mindset is always to get a little bit better everyday, I work on my mistakes I made in the previous game and keep learn ing from my teammates and my coaches as much as possible.”

The Mercyhurst soccer team has been a dominant team all season long on the pitch and Kerrigan described going into the weekend versus Gannon,

“We’ve been preparing well as a team with two good ses sions after our win on Wednes day. I’m looking forward to a good game against a good team and hopefully we come out on

top.”

Over the weekend the team had their away game at Gannon University.

The crosstown rivalry match up against the Golden Knights was a major battle for the first spot in PSAC West.

The final from Saturday’s match was Mercyhurst 4 Gan non 0. The Lakers locked down PSAC leading goal scorer and Gannon midfielder Sergio Del Castillo. Mercyhurst’s defense has clearly been a key to the team’s success through stopping the opposing teams top scorers.

Senior defenseman Martin Grzywa has started every game

and played over 270 minutes. He has played a crucial role thus far. After Saturday’s win Grzwya described the feeling saying, “It gives us confidence to know that when we play our game and stick to our game plan, we shouldn’t be afraid of anyone. We can’t get too high though and have to focus on the next game.”

Grad student goalkeeper Jonathan Gomes had many cru cial saves for the Lakers against Gannon.

Sophomore Axel Aronsson had a beautiful header in the first to give Mercyhurst the 1-0 lead going into half time. Fay

scored his fifth of the season and Kerrigan capitalized on a penalty kick to gain a 3-0 lead.

In the final minute freshman Jorge Tallada Torres sealed the game with the Lakers fourth goal of the night.

Mercyhurst men’s soccer con tinues to dominate opponents on the pitch and are back in action this Saturday, Oct. 15 to host California of Pennsylvania with kick-off set for 3 p.m.

By Samantha Weber Editor-in-chief

The women’s soccer team played against Edinboro University on Wednesday, Oct. 5, and against Slippery Rock University on Sat urday, Oct. 8. Both games ended in a 0-0 tie.

In the game against Edinboro, the beginning foreshadowed that the game could go either way for the teams because it was constant ly back and forth.

The first big play by the Lakers was when senior Madison Hoover took a shot and it bounced off the crossbar. After that, grad student Lauren Casey attempted to score on another long-distance shot like the one she had last week, but un fortunately was unsuccessful.

Mercyhurst was putting the pressure on the Scots offensively. Unfortunately, Edinboro had a strong defense that could not be broken through.

Edinboro’s goalkeeper also played an amazing game and was a key player for her team. In the first half, the Lakers took 10 shots and four of them were on target.

The second half mimicked the first as neither team was able to score. Casey took another shot in the 52nd minute that was saved.

Senior Amber Thomas took a shot in the 75th minute of the game that was also saved. With only minutes left in the scoreless match, sophomore Karah Van Horn took a shot that was also saved. In the 89th minute of the

game, sophomore Teagan Me halko took the final shot of the game which was saved by the Ed inboro goalkeeper.

Mercyhurst played very well of fensively as they had 21 shots and nine were on target and MU also drew eight corner kicks but were not able to score off of any.

The Lakers added another tie to make their record history 6-94 against the Edinboro Fighting Scots.

On Saturday, the Lakers trav eled to Slippery Rock to hopefully add another win to their record.

Similar to how their game against Edinboro started, the Lakers kept going back and forth with their

opponent and no one was able to dominate the game right out of the gate.

Thomas took a shot in the 17th minute that was ultimately saved by the Rock’s goalkeeper.

The Lakers had four shots and two of which were on target, but both teams’ defense were playing well and the game went into half time tied at 0-0.

The second half went the same as the first since neither team could get the ball in the back of the net.

Senior Taryn Baxter took a shot on goal in the 60th minute, but missed the target. Van Horn took another shot and also ended up

missing the goal.

Junior Alyssa Poleski took the final shot of the game in the 89th minute, yet it was stopped by the Slippery Rock goalkeeper. Laker goalkeeper junior Maddie Elbro had three saves. Mercyhurst has a record of 4-9-4 when it comes to playing Slippery Rock.

The Lakers current record is 7-2-4 and hope to add another win today as they are hosting Uni versity of Pittsburgh Johnstown.

Hurst Athletics photo

Men’s soccer team huddles during a game against Hurst rivals, the Gannon Golden Knights.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) Your ideas earn the respect of your col leagues. But, you’ll have to present some hard facts and figures if you hope to persuade those who make the big decisions to support you.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Keep those bright Bull’s eyes focused on the project at hand. Avoid distrac tions. There’ll be lots of time for fun and games later. Expect to get wel come news this weekend.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) You soon might have to decide about mov ing a relationship from its current sta tus to another level. Don’t let anyone influence your decision. It must be yours and yours alone.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) You finally can get off that emotional roll er coaster and get back to focusing on your goals without interruptions through the rest of the week. A nice change is due by the weekend.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) Trying to make an impression on some peo ple runs into a bit of a snag at first, but it all works out. An old and almost forgotten personal matter once again needs attention.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) A rise in your energy level helps you finish an especially demanding task. Take some time now to spend with family and friends before start ing a new project.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) This is a good time to re-establish contact with trusted former associ ates who might be able to offer good advice regarding that career change you’ve been contemplating.

SCORPIO (October 23 to Novem ber 21) Your resourcefulness com bined with a calm, cool approach help you work your way out of a knotty sit uation, and avoid a potentially serious misunderstanding.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A calm, quiet period allows you to recharge your energies. But, you’ll soon be ready to saddle up and gallop off in pursuit of your goals.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Family matters need your attention. Check things out carefully. There still might be unresolved ten sions that could hinder your efforts to repair damaged relationships.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to Febru ary 18) It’s a good time to take a stand and show as much passion on your own behalf as you do when arguing for the rights of others. You might be happily surprised by the reaction.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) You bring sense and sensitivity to a confusing situation. Things soon set tle down, leaving you free to enjoy a weekend of fun and relaxation with friends and family.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a talent for being able to perceive pos sibilities where others only see prob lems.