Oct. 4 Edition of The Merciad

Merciad THE

MERCYHURST UNIVERSIT Y

|

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, O C T O B E R 4 , 2 017

|

VOL. 91 NO. 4

Homecoming festivities PAGES 2, 15

Online poll results What is your favorite fall activity?

6: Mercyhurst’s Greg Baker speaks about gender and spirituality 11: Pilobolus to dance in the PAC INSIDE: $2 off coupon for Ghost Lake: 13 Levels of Fear

Pumpkin carving. (43%) Haunted houses and hayrides. (29%) Corn mazes. (14%) What fall are you talking about? (14%)

This week’s

POLL

What are you doing for fall break?

merciad.mercyhurst.edu

NEWS

PAGE 2

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Mitch Marsh photo

Students gather with faculty and alumni at the Homecoming pregame tailgate. Spirit hats, food and music from the athletic band got the crowd ready for the game versus Gannon.

Hurst homecoming a hit

By Lauren Rogus

Contributing writer

This past weekend, Mercyhurst celebrated Homecoming Weekend.

Students, faculty, staff and alumni alike crowded the campus for celebratory activities.

The weekend kicked off with a charity golf outing and bonfire on Friday night. During the bonfire, the band played and the cheerleaders got the crowd excited with their Laker spirit.

Saturday morning was a pregame tailgate before the Laker football team went up against Gannon’s Golden Knights. The tailgate had free food, spirit hats for students and a special area for the alumni.

Alumni from all graduating classes came back to participate in the Homecoming festivities.

“My favorite memory of Mercyhurst was hanging with my friends. It was the best time,” said Paulette Vaccar, Class of 1983, who is part of the alumni board.

Each year, alumni come back to meet up with all friends and reminisce about their time at Mercyhurst.

“I think my favorite memory was the pig roast we used to have during SpringFest,”said Brooke Billingsley, Class of 2000. “It was such a fun time to get together with everybody, and it was very enjoyable. So I guess my favorite memory was camaraderie with my fellow students. I came back for Homecoming because my expe-

Mitch Marsh photo

Homecoming King Cole Lowe, and Queen Molly Mills, were crowned during halftime of the football game against Gannon.

rience at Mercyhurst was so great that I love to come back every year. I get to see everyone, my favorite teachers and all my friends that revisit every year.”

Not all of the Mercyhurst alumni decided to leave after graduation. Some now work at the university. Betsy Frank, Class of 1981, works in the president’s office.

“I work here, and it is wonderful to be home all the time,” said Frank. “I was a cheerlead-

er and after all that experience it has been really fun to come back.

My son is an alum as well. It is nice the legacy continued.” Her son, Thomas Frank, received his bachelor’s degree in 2013 and master’s degree in 2015.

Other alumni make longer treks to come back for Homecoming.

“I love the sports and the family-friendly campus. My favorite thing about Homecoming is coming home and saying hi to

the boys. I don’t get to see them very much. I live up in Canada so I use my one weekend away to come away from work and back to school and enjoy with the kids,” said Kevan McDacen, a marketing alumnus.

Current students also felt that Homecoming was a nostalgic time for them, too.

“My favorite memory is living with my best friend that I met at school, Julia Detona. My favorite part about Homecoming is getting free food and listening to the band, because they’re the bomb,” said Amanda Smith, a junior Interior Design major.

Molly Mills, a senior Biology major, was nominated for Homecoming court and was voted Homecoming queen by her peers.

“My favorite memory was the Homecoming dance last year,” said Mills. “My favorite thing about Homecoming is that it makes Mercyhurst feel like a bigger university, but we are actually a small school. Just for Homecoming weekend.”

Mills also explained what Homecoming court is and how to be on it.

“If you are a senior, you can get nominated and there are a group of guys and a group of girls. The number changes every year. You just have to show up to the game, we vote through email and then at half time the king and queen are announced,” Mills said.

Emma Preston, a senior Biology and Psychology double major and Homecoming court

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

nominee, said, “My favorite thing about Homecoming is that family can all come, too. I like that it is not just a student thing, but also a family thing and an alumni thing and it is a big Mercyhurst family as well as your own family thing.”

Another student, Noelle Zesky, a freshman Intelligence Studies and Information Technology double major, said, “My favorite thing is seeing everyone, especially seeing alumni because it is such a great supportive community.”

Matt Bernarding, a trumpet player in the Mercyhurst Athletic Band and a freshman Intelligence Studies major, said, “My favorite thing about Mercyhurst is the love from everybody and the caring that comes from them. The best thing about Homecoming is all the food. My favorite band song is probably ‘25 Or 6 To 4.’”

Cole Lowe, senior Spanish Education major, was crowned Homecoming king.

“My favorite thing about Mercyhurst is the ability to make friendships really easily. There are so many groups and so many opportunities to be around people who have your same ideals and values, which makes establishing friendships not difficult at all. It enriches the whole college experience because of that, whether it be with peers, professors or administrators, it is so easy,” said Lowe.

SEE HOMECOMING, PAGE 3

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

NEWS

PAGE 3

MSG Fall forum discusses standardizing grading scale

By Kristian Biega Staff writer

On Sept. 25, in the Student Union Great Room, a panel of faculty members gathered to discuss potential changes in the university’s grading system.

After a survey held by Mercyhurst Student Government (MSG) yielded striking results that a majority of Mercyhurst students are in favor of changing the current grading scale to a more standardized scale, MSG decided to host a forum at which student voices could be heard about this topic.

Mercyhurst currently does not have a common grading scale, which means that each individual professor has the freedom to choose the grading scale for each of their classes. This means that many classes and subject areas vary in what makes an A, B, C or D, even for classes taught by the same professor.

The forum was open to all members of the Mercyhurst community as proponents of both sides of the issues made their opinions heard. The faculty panel consisted of David Dausey, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president; Dyan Jones, Ph.D., vice president of institutional effectiveness; registrar Michele Wheaton; Amy Parente, Ph.D., assistant professor of chemistry; and Amy Doolan, Ph.D., associate professor and associate dean, Walker School of Business.

“The students are part of our intergovernmental springboard,” said Dausey. “Therefore, having data to support what the students desire along with my personal opinion, is very helpful for us.”

The faculty recently decided not to advance the idea of the standardization because they believe it imposes on their intellectual freedom and discretion in the classroom to grade it to their personal judgment.

Dausey responded to questions on why Mercyhurst does not already have a standardized grading scale in place.

“We have to keep our mind on the outcome that we want first,”

Kristian Biega photo

Students gather to discuss a more standardized grading scale with professors and faculty. Students voiced their opinions about having the same grading scale across the entire university while professors voiced their concerns about taking away freedom of the professors.

said Dausey. “It has always traditionally been viewed as something that related to the academic freedom of the faculty and their discretion of how they want to grade the class and to the fact that the grades of the class will still be the same.”

However, the students still want to further their case for a common scale among classes because they feel that it is easier to understand and more fair from subject to subject to have all letter grades correspond to one scale.

One potential solution for the issue would be standardization among departments, giving students in these majors a clearer sense of what is expected for each evaluation.

“The Walker School is pretty close to being standard,” said Doolan.

The main clarification that the faculty wish to give the students is that the standardization of a grading scale will not influence the difficulty of the class, nor will it affect the effort or conceptual

understanding needed to receive an A, whether the scale is 93-100 or 90-100 across the board. Grade inflation could become a problem as it becomes harder to define an “A student” with a more common system.

Students are concerned that different scales will affect their GPAs and therefore affect their chances at more appealing résumés for jobs and graduate school. However, most future employers today are looking at consistency of grades, experience and letters of recommendation.

The results of an initial survey for students showed overwhelming support of standardizing the grading scale. Jones offered her help to MSG in creating a more detailed, robust and unbiased survey for pursuing the issue in the future.

“If you want to make your point, you need to have really really strong data to make that point,” said Jones. “If you do want to have a voice, I’ll help you make that case in the strongest way possible.”

A more clear survey will give the Mercyhurst community a better idea of why the students feel this way and what possible solutions may be.

“The more data you have to make an informed decision, the better,” said Parente. “You want to make sure you are making the best decision and what the consequences of making those changes might be.”

Another misconception with the change in grading scale is that this change will affect the plus/ minus system of Mercyhurst.

Mercyhurst currently uses “pluses” to denote higher numerical scores on grades, but they do not have a minus to counterbalance this system. Many students are in favor of adding the minus to the system. Though some faculty are in favor as well, they advised that it may alter current student GPAs and will take at least one school year to implement.

With any changes that will be made, the faculty made it clear that they only want to look at

what is best for the student body as a whole, so as not to hurt an individual student or their academic career.

After discussion of the grading scale and the possible initiation of a plus/minus system, the floor was opened to general questions.

The faculty panel answered various student questions on the new cyber security area, Self Service 4-year planning programs, class registration, internships and campus housing issues.

MSG typically hosts a fall and spring semester forum, but this one was held specifically to discuss opinions on the grading scale.

MSG President Jonah Jackson saw this forum as well attended and successful, but encouraged more students to come to the forums or MSG meetings if they have issues or ideas for the administration.

“This forum was a great way to get the discussion going,” said Jackson. “If you want to voice your concerns, forums are a great place to do so. This is where things are changed.”

Homecoming: Alumni leave game with a victory CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

After the Homecoming court was announced at halftime, the Lakers went on to defeat Gannon.

Homecoming festivities continued on throughout the rest of the afternoon and into the early part of Sunday.

Lowe talked about the joy of Homecoming and how Mercy-

hurst has become a second home he will always come back to.

“My favorite thing about Homecoming is that this is the chance where you can come back after you’ve gone because this is your home for four years,” said Lowe. “It’s where you establish part of who you are. And so you can come back and see the people you established those friendships

with that made it so wonderful.

That experience is so enriching between all of you. It is just great to come back and see each other again.”

Whether current student or alumni, memories are something each person takes with them when they leave.

“My two favorite memories of Mercyhurst in general are the

two service trips I went on this year with a group that were all in my major and so being there with them and experiencing that with them,” said Lowe. “And also coming back to Mercyhurst to talk to people about it were my favorite memories.”

After the game on Saturday, there was trivia and a Mass at 4:30 p.m. for the alumni and families

FOLLOW THE MERCIAD ON TWITTER USING #THEMERCIAD

that traveled for the game.

A Mass was also held on Sunday at 11 a.m., along with a brunch in Grotto Commons.

Other Mercyhurst teams that also played this weekend included women’s volleyball on Friday, men’s water polo, men and women’s soccer and women’s volleyball on Saturday, and women’s field hockey on Sunday.

NEWS

PAGE 4

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Merciad IN A MINUTE Study up on study abroad program On Oct. 25, the Office of International Education and Study Abroad will host its annual study abroad fair. The fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Student Union Great Room.

There will be free consultation with representatives from various programs.

Students will have the chance to learn about travel opportunities from around the world.

For more information, please contact Cyndy Dunn at studyabroad@ mercyhurst.edu or stop by Preston 105.

Show spirit and support dance team The Mercyhurst Dance Team is selling T-shirts to help raise money for the team.

The shirts come in navy blue or green with a green anchor and the phrase “Living the Laker Life.” Shirts are $10 each. To buy one for yourself, just find any member on the dance team.

Rent-AHabitater Rent-A-Habitater is back again this year.

Mercyhurst’s Habitat for Humanity chapter has student volunteers that will go to a professor or faculty’s house and help with some cleaning.

Over the weekend of Oct. 6-7, Oct. 21-22 and Oct. 28-29, students will work in two- to four-hour shifts. The rate is $10 per student per hour, and all the money raised goes toward the spring break trips that the chapter goes on each year.

Contact Mikayla Herr, chapter president, for more info.

Have a news tip for Merciad In a Minute? Send an email to newsmerciad@mercyhurst.edu

Elizabeth Shewan photo

From left, John Olszowoka, Melissa Heerboth, Kevin Sullivan, Chris Magoc and Randy Clemons discuss the debate surrounding Confederate monuments in the United States. Behind them is a picture of The Confederate Monument at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia.

Offensive or historical?

Forum discusses future of Confederate monuments

By Elizabeth Shewan

Staff writer

On Sept. 26, Mercyhurst hosted “Facing a Conflicted Heritage: History, Memory, and the Battle over Confederate Monuments.”

The event, which took place in Taylor Little Theater, featured five Mercyhurst professors: Randy Clemons, Ph.D., Political Science; Melissa Heerboth, Ph.D., Psychology; Chris Magoc, Ph.D., History; John Olszowoka, Ph.D., History; and Kevin Sullivan, Ph.D, Philosophy.

The focus of the forum was the controversy regarding statues of Confederate generals and officials. The issue has taken a spotlight in the media, especially since a protest regarding the removal of such a statue in Charlottesville, Virginia, resulted in several deaths as well as a media frenzy.

Some claim that since the statues and memorials honor the men who fought to keep slavery in this country, they are racist and offensive and ought to be removed, while others argue that the statues are part of both local and national history, and thus deserve to remain. Many others fall somewhere in between these points of view.

When approaching the topic, the panelists agreed on some fundamental points: that slavery and racism are morally wrong,

and, centrally, that there would be no easy answers to the question of what to do with Confederate monuments.

However, not one of the panelists agreed completely with any other. The assembled professors represented various disciplines, and each approached the subject in accordance with their own background. There are many ideas regarding what ought to be done about the controversy, and the opinions expressed reflected this.

Olszowoka mentioned the time periods in which monuments to the Confederacy were built, first in the era of Reconstruction after the Civil War, and second in the 1950s and 1960s, when the civil rights movement was happening, resulting in a resurgence of Confederate culture.

“What you have here is people trying to tell a different version of history, one that, I would argue, is a-historical,” he said.

Heerboth was strongly in favor of the removal of Confederate monuments.

“I think that when a state has decided that this person should be commemorated and this person should be memorialized, it kind of lends a seriousness or validity or perception of validity to that person,” said Heerboth.

“And I think that creates spaces that are not welcoming and spac-

es that even could be perceived as violent.”

For Heerboth, monuments to the Confederacy perpetuate systematic racism and even constitute social violence.

Magoc was uncertain as to what the answer to the controversy is.

He pointed to multiple possible solutions, none of which would satisfy everyone. One answer in particular he referred to was used in Harper’s Ferry, West Virginia, the location of John Brown’s historic raid, an event that contributed to the outbreak of the Civil War. In the 1990s, the National Park Service attempted to relieve tensions surrounding a controversial statue erected in the 1930s by supplementing the statue with a marker, contextualizing the statue and the history of the Civil War in the area. The solution was not particularly successful, and Magoc freely admits it is not a perfect solution.

“I’m still uncomfortable with the idea of interpretive markers as an answer, as a satisfactory answer to these monuments that embody and absolutely, deeply, profoundly reflect this deep and dark history of racism and slavery in this country,” Magoc said.

The aesthetics of commemoration were of particular interest to Sullivan.

“Where (the monuments) are

and what they’re intended to do is an important, salient part of this debate,” Sullivan said.

Such monuments are designed with this idea in mind, and thus send messages beyond the obvious. To Sullivan, it is clear that the monuments perpetuate systematic slavery and racism, pointing to revered Confederate generals who bought and sold slaves, professed outwardly to be fighting to keep slavery and committed horrific crimes against black soldiers.

Clemons looked to the Constitution of the United States and Lincoln’s Gettysburg address, and how they interact with each other, for insight into the war that divided and continues to divide the country.

“In November 1863, with only 272 words, in a three-minute speech (Lincoln) changed the constitution and our country forever,” said Clemons. “He did so by focusing on the spirit, not just the letter of the constitution, and by tying it to the Declaration of Independence, especially the claim that ‘all men are created equal.’”

Though drawing conclusions around such a controversial topic is incredibly hard, discussing them is important, and Mercyhurst is doing its part to encourage its community to consider the issue of Confederate monuments thoughtfully.

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

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

NEWS

Hurst team part of APPLE conference

By Rebecca Dunphy Staff writer

Sept. 22 through 24, members of the Mercyhurst athletic community attended the 2017 Division II APPLE Training Institute in Washington D.C. Coordinated by the Gordie Center for Substance Abuse Prevention at the University of Virginia, the prestigious conference brought together 40 select schools from around the country to learn about substance abuse prevention and the promotion of health and wellness.

Accompanied by Kutztown University, Mercyhurst was one of only two Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) institutions given the opportunity to bring a prevention team and represent the conference on a national ballot.

“It is a great opportunity to learn the APPLE model and bring initiatives to campus regarding student-athlete health, wellness and substance abuse prevention,” said certified athletic trainer Trisha Dimatteo. “It is also exciting to represent PSAC.” Dimatteo was part of the five-person “prevention” team that represented the school over the weekend. Other members were Dr. Judy Smith, executive di-

rector of Wellness; Megan McKenna, director of Residence Life; and student athletes Joel Bowers and Diana Schmitt.

Team members attended presentations and discussions with various professionals from the University of Virginia, Virginia Commonwealth University, the National Center for Drug Free Sport, and the University of North Carolina Greensboro.

“The speakers were fantastic.

Linda Hancock from VCU was the keynote speaker Friday night and also spoke throughout the weekend,” said Dimatteo. “The team learned many ways to implement the seven slices of APPLE and ways to educate student-athletes on substance abuse prevention.”

The seven parts of the APPLE substance abuse prevention program — recruitment, expectations and attitudes, policies, education, drug testing, referral and counseling and sanctioning — were tools discussed at the conference that allowed schools to create a personalized prevention plan for their respective schools.

“I think that the information can help a tremendous amount,” said Schmitt. “There is a lot of room for improvement, and the Mercyhurst APPLE team has learned so much after attending the conference. Little things from

questionnaires to developing whole new policies can create major improvements at Mercyhurst.”

Although the team has only been back for a few days, the team members are already using the information they gained at the conference to plan a better, healthier future for Mercyhurst student-athletes.

“Our first step is to organize a meeting with some of our faculty and administration to help get their support,” said Schmitt. “We have a step-by-step plan that the folks at APPLE helped us set up.

This plan will take time to implement, but I am hopeful it will be successful.”

Students can expect initiatives regarding alcohol, tobacco and other drugs to be implemented on campus in the near future thanks to the prevention team and the Division II APPLE Training Institute.

“It’s hard to think that five people that attended a convention can affect 3,000 students in a college where drinking alcohol and doing drugs on the weekend is getting more normal,” said Bowers.

“If the steps are done right at the right time, I believe that those five people can become a much larger number. We would just have to get people on our side and get it rolling.”

PAGE 5

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

This weekend’s campus events

MSG will be hosting an event for students to learn about sexual assault, hear how to overcome stigmas and listen to stories from survivors. The event will be Friday in the Student Union.

Artist shares experience at Activism Speaker Series

By Marina Boyle Staff writer

The Activism Speaker Series commenced this week with a talk from Zeke Thomas, a DJ, artist and music producer.

Thomas, who is the son of NBA legend Isaiah Thomas, came to Mercyhurst to speak about sexual violence and to share his own experience. As a gay man who was a victim of sexual assault, he uses activism to change the narrative.

The Activism Speaker Series spreads the message of self-acceptance and builds on last year’s idea of claiming one’s identity.

Through their stories, speakers push others to be spokespeople and champions of representation in their communities.

Previously, Mercyhurst Student Government (MSG) has only hosted two speakers a year, one in the fall and one in the spring.

This year, the series has become more robust, with a common theme among the speakers. Later on in the year, talks will be given

by political commentator Symone Sanders and filmmaker and entrepreneur Celine Couteau.

MSG hopes to highlight that activism does not have a specific mold and is not limited to one group or person.

The talk by Thomas emphasized the fact that one in six men in the United Sates are sexually assaulted, as are one in four women.

Thomas told the audience that “no one ever talks about this, but there are survivors and victims everywhere. I felt that my manhood had been taken from me.”

Thomas is hoping to create a platform for real conversation by changing the culture and conversations around sexual violence, and by breaking down societal barriers and harmful stereotypes.

His talk focused on the central message that “a lot of times in this life people don’t get the chance to be free and to express themselves.”

“We’re going to have to grow as a generation and a society. We don’t protect each other enough,

we don’t look out for one another. The path isn’t always a straight line, but you don’t need to go it alone,” Thomas said.

The speech concluded with a question-and-answer session that allowed students to express their own thoughts on this difficult topic, and to ask questions.

Before the final autograph signing, Thomas concluded with a powerful call to action. He asked the audience to consider: “If you don’t be you, then who are you?”

Students who attended cited the talk as powerful, moving and heartening.

“The Activism Speaker Series is another means of how MSG hopes to enhance the lives of students on campus. We want this series to be impactful. My hope is that with everything going on in the world, these speakers help spur meaningful conversations on campus and empower students to want to say more – to be part of change not only on campus, but beyond the gates of Mercyhurst,”Jonah Jackson, Student Government president said.

F O L L O W T H E M E R C I A D O N T W I T T E R AT # T H E M E R C I A D

On Saturday, MSG and SAC are teaming up to host a kickball tournament. Sign-ups are free, but teams are encouraged to donate. Proceeds will go toward cancer research. The tournament will be held on the baseball field or in the MAC if there is rain.

MERCYHURST CAMPUS

CRIME LOG Sept. 21: Harassment at 3809 Lewis Ave. Sept. 25: Theft on Egan walkway Sept. 29: Criminal mischief in Lot #22 Sept. 29: Liquor law violation at 742 E. 40th St.

FEATURES

PAGE 6

Ask Mia Anyone have a problem that they need help fixing?

Ask for Mia’s advice at: askmia.merciad@gmail.com *******************

Dear Mia, My professor talks extremely fast when he gives lectures.

He uses a PowerPoint, but it doesn’t have much detail in it so I’m always struggling to write down all the information before he moves on to something else. Would it be rude to ask him to slow down? What should I do?

Sincerely, Slow Writer

Dear Slow Writer, Personally, I do not think it would be rude if you asked your professor to slow down a little bit. Teachers are there to give you the information, and they shouldn’t be making it harder by not giving students time to take notes.

It may be possible that other people in your class think he is talking too fast as well.

Being the one to raise your hand and politely ask your professor to slow down would be beneficial to your classmates as well. I’m sure your professor will understand the problem and try to change it for everyone.

If you’re uncomfortable asking him in class to slow down, try sending him an email about what’s going on. You could also try recording the lecture on your phone so you can listen again later on to see if you missed any important points.

Sincerely,

Mia

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Baker to speak on gender, spirituality

By Elizabeth Shewan

Staff writer

On Oct. 4, Greg Baker, director of Campus Ministry and adjunct instructor of Catholic Studies, will speak on spirituality and gender from a Catholic perspective.

Baker’s talk, entitled “Spirituality and Gender: Catholic Perspectives on a Whole and Just Life,” is the annual fall lecture sponsored by the William C. Sennett Institute for Mercy & Catholic Studies.

Baker has been working on his Doctor of Ministry through Fordham University. His dissertation is on spirituality and gender, approaching it from a male perspective. He is scheduled to defend his dissertation Nov. 8 in New York City.

“I’m concerned about guys on college campuses,” said Baker. “I don’t see a lot of them involved in a lot of ways. I worry that guys are starting to find a poverty of identity, they’re not always sure who they are, what it means to be a guy in today’s culture.”

Baker’s work with students has influenced his thoughts on the subject. Despite his concerns, Baker has found encouragement through campus ministry work.

“As I get to know students and hear their stories and see their gifts come out, the students give me a tremendous amount of hope that things in our culture that seem like they can’t be reconciled, that they can be,” Baker said.

In addition to his dissertation research and his responsibilities at

Photo contributed by Diocese of Erie

Greg Baker, director of Campus Ministry and adjunct instructor of Catholic Studies, will speak on gender and spirituality on Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall.

Mercyhurst, Baker is married and has four children. Juggling everything is a feat in itself.

“Doctoral work has been invigorating and exhausting,” said Baker. “My wife had been nothing short of hectic. My children have been very understanding.

They have known the right times to challenge me to put down my work and spend quality time with them. And 4 a.m. and strong coffee have become my closest allies.

I never want to do doctoral work again, and I would not trade the experience for anything.”

As the father of three young

boys, family life is an important influence for Baker.

“The more I studied this, the more I looked at those cute little faces and thought, I don’t know how to lead you towards manhood, whatever that means,” said Baker. “And then the further I got on in my studies, I realized this was just as much about my daughter and about my wife, in a culture where in too many relationships women are made to suffer, to fear violence at the hands of men.”

Studying spirituality and gender from a Catholic perspective adds a dimension to topics that are already complex. Spirituality and gender both defy easy explanations, and the teachings of the Catholic Church are not always palatable to a society where issues of gender have come to the forefront in popular media.

Despite evolving societal ideas on gender roles, there are still rigid ideas of what masculinity and femininity are, a subject Baker intends to focus on in his lecture.

Among topics Baker intends to address is complementarity. This is the idea that men and women are made to fit together, biologically and socially.

Baker will also engage in a discussion of patriarchy, a subject that is impossible to ignore when looking at spirituality and gender.

Baker plans to address “why our church is better than patriarchy, and we can do better than that.”

This lecture is open to the community and will take place on Oct. 4 at 7 p.m. in the Walker Recital Hall, even if it is Hurst Day.

Organizations engage in cancer awareness

By Rebecca Dunphy

Staff writer

On Sept. 26, people throughout the country took to Twitter to celebrate the 13th annual Mesothelioma Awareness Day with a tweetchat hosted by the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO).

Moderated by the organizations Less Cancer (@LessCancer), Colombia Sin Asbestos (@AnaCNio), and the “Steve McQueen: American Icon” film team (@ McQueen Event), the hourlong event ran from noon to 1 p.m.

Twitter users were able to join the chat and learn about the disease and asbestos through the #ENDMeso tag.

A diverse selection of patients, advocates, survivors, organizations and professionals informed others about this rare form of cancer by sharing their experiences with the disease.

The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer, Schneider Labs and the Mesothelioma Asbestos Awareness Center were among the many organizations that shared their own content and participated in the discussion.

Emily Walsh, Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance outreach director, was impressed with the turnout for the event and the amount of original content that was shared.

“The day was a great step toward success in our opinion.

There was an amazing rate of participation from tons of organizations and individuals,” said Walsh.

“We were lucky enough to see many organizations put out their own content as well.”

Conversation was prompted by a list of five questions regarding how to raise awareness, what newly diagnosed patients should know, where to find helpful resources, where to find strength

and what life lessons mesothelioma teaches.

“We hope people got to learn about the different dangers of asbestos, how asbestos can still pose a huge health threat today and hear some stories from survivors on what they went through,” said Walsh. “The fact that people took time out of their businesses and personal days to join in this event and spread awareness is amazing.”

Although the event came to a close in the early afternoon, awareness efforts are far from over. Participating organizations will continue to promote mesothelioma and asbestos awareness throughout the year in hope that there will never again be a need for an event or awareness day.

“We hope this will continue in future years and encourage more and more people to join so that the awareness can keep growing,” Walsh said.

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

FEATURES

PAGE 7

Lauren Alfieri photo

The Mercy Emissaries hosted a Dress it Forward event on Sept. 27, to collect professional clothing for women in Erie. The event supported Dress for Success Erie.

Women dress for success

By Lauren Alfieri Contributing writer

and Abigail Rinard Features editor

On Sept. 27, the Mercy Emissaries hosted a Fall Tea to support Dress for Success Erie. The “Dress it Forward” event, which took place in the Mercy Heritage Room on campus, collected clothing, accessories and other items to help women in the Erie community.

Individuals who attended the tea had to bring one of the following items as their entrance ticket: gently used or new clothing, scarves, gift items, personal care products, costume jewelry or other similar items.

“Dress for Success Erie is a program of Mercy Center for Women, which was founded by the Sisters of Mercy,” said Mary Graziano, director of Dress for Success Erie. “We are an affiliate of Dress for Success Worldwide.”

Dress for Success Worldwide is an organization that promotes global change. It provides professional clothing to women, attempting to help them break the poverty cycle.

The creators of Dress for Success Worldwide believe that “addressing women’s needs is central to improving the quality of life for not only that woman but also her family, future generations and her community.”

Affiliates of Dress for Success can be found across the globe, with the Erie chapter being only one of many.

The mission of Dress for Success Erie, according to the organization’s website, is “to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a net-

Lauren Alfieri photo

The Fall Tea required attendees to bring gently used professional clothing and accessories as their entry ticket.

Lauren Alfieri photo

Mary Graziano, director of Dress for Success Erie, presented on the mission and goals of the organization at the Fall Tea.

work of support, professional attire and the development tools necessary to help women thrive in work and life.”

The Fall Tea included a presentation by Graziano, as well as food and conversation surrounding the issue of how to help women in Erie achieve success and recover from financial hardships.

The program envisions a “world where women do not live in poverty; are treated with dignity and respect; and are strengthening their families and shaping their communities,” according to the website.

Dress for Success Erie welcomes donations of money or

clothing. The organizers ask that the clothing be in good condition and professional or business casual. Accessories, shoes and personal care products are also welcome.

Volunteer positions are also available to interested individuals.

Overall, the Dress it Forward event at Mercyhurst was a success. “(We) are so very grateful to Dr. Alice Edwards and the Mercy Emissaries for reaching out to volunteer and do what we call a ‘Dress it Forward’ event,” said Graziano. “The collection of Lauren Alfieri photo clothing, accessories and bath and body products needed for the After the presentation, guests at the Mercy Emissaries’ Fall Tea enjoyed discussion and a variety of snacks. women we serve was fabulous.”

FEATURES

PAGE 8

NEW AT HURST

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Seize the retreat

By Abigail Rinard

Features editor

Carlena Bressanelli photo

Heather Denning, left, is a new instructor of Art Therapy.

Heather Denning, instructor of Art Therapy Heather Denning, M.A., ATR-BC, ATCS, LSW, is a new instructor of Art Therapy at Mercyhurst University. Originally from Ohio, Denning has a B.S. in Art Therapy from Bowling State University, with concentrations in Social Work and Drawing. She then attended Norwich University, where she received her M.A. in Art Therapy.

“My high school art teacher told me about the field of Art Therapy, and I wanted a career with the arts and working with people,” Denning said.

Denning began teaching part time at Mercyhurst during the 2016 school year. This year, however, she was brought into the program full time.

“I actually found the position through the Mercyhurst website and I have friends and students who went to the program. I knew it was a well established undergraduate art therapy program,” Denning said.

Denning has big plans for the program.

“I really want to establish and grow the Art Therapy program and connect students to real-life experiences where art therapists may be working,” said Denning. “I would like to start some group art therapy classes and continue some additional service learning opportunities for Art Therapy students abroad.”

Denning, accompanied by several Mercyhurst students as well as graduate students from Ursuline College, will be traveling to Nepal to work with schoolchildren. They will be doing art therapy with the students in the classroom and hope to engage the multicultural atmosphere through art.

Meanwhile, the graduate students will be working with victims of human trafficking.

“Within the first year of teaching, she was the driving force for the Art Therapy program’s very first study abroad trip to Nepal,” said Morgan Karcher, junior Art Therapy and Psychology double major. “These classes have made me feel confident in my knowledge of art therapy and psychotherapy as well as my experience in volunteer work and preparation for graduate school.”

Many students feel more prepared for their futures after taking Denning’s classes.

“I like that she has a lot of application that we can use in the real world, which is really helpful. Classes are hands on and practical application,” said Cailin Jaspers, sophomore Art Therapy major.

Students also commented on the healthy environment that Denning creates in her classroom.

“I think that she provides a very safe and positive learning space for her students and is dedicated to giving them the best education possible,” said Julia Detota, sophomore double major in Art Therapy and Psychology. “Being an art therapist herself, she brings in a huge amount of insight and experience for the program.”

In addition to providing exceptional teaching and a stimulating environment, Denning also is willing to act as a mentor for her students.

“I think Professor Denning’s teaching is very effective. Her classes are super fun because she’s always there to help us and talk about anything,” said Erin Jenkins, a junior double major in Art Therapy and Art Education.

Overall, the reaction to Denning has been positive.

“She truly is a gift to the Art Department, and I can’t wait to see where the Art Therapy program goes,” said Karcher.

— Carlena Bressanelli

Carpe Diem (CD) retreats have become a staple at Mercyhurst.

Occurring once each semester, CD retreats are hosted by Campus Ministry. They are student-led, nonreligious retreats that give an opportunity for students to get off campus and build a lasting community with one another.

“The retreats are student-led and provide an opportunity for students to take a break from their studies, meet new people and learn more about themselves,” said Jenell Patton, assistant director of Campus Ministry.

CD 9 will take place Nov. 1719. Students will board a bus on Friday afternoon around 4 p.m., travel to Villa Maria Retreat Center, and then return early Sunday afternoon.

“Carpe Diem eradicates any pressures that hold you back from being your true self,” said Thomas Matheson, ’17.

These retreats are about creating an atmosphere where students can be open, dropping the cardboard cutout that they often show to the world. Student leaders strive to help cultivate this environment through transparency and honesty.

“CD retreats are about stories and how they connect us, and how they give us meaning and hope,” said Greg Baker, director of Campus Ministry. “These retreats are so powerful because of the amazing student leaders who plan and run the entire retreat.

Their hard work, their nonjudgmental spirits and their desire to help others to seize the day more fully is what makes these retreats so special.”

The CD retreats represent a growing experience for many students across campus. Amelia Kanonczyk, junior Criminal Justice major, is a leader on the upcoming retreat and commented on her own experience at CD 5.

“The Carpe Diem retreat made me step out of my comfort zone and meet people who are, till this day, some of my best friends,” said Kanonczyk. “I loved every minute of the weekend, and I wouldn’t have changed it for anything.”

Brooke Dicks, senior Athletic Training major, almost didn’t go on her retreat.

“I wasn’t going to go because I thought that I wasn’t going to like it and I turned my form in at the very last second. I am so glad that I did,” said Dicks. “I think people should go on CD trips because they are more than you will ever expect. It is a time to just break away from reality and to make some really awesome friends. CD retreats are truly awesome, and you will not want to come home from them.”

Rae Pollock, senior Communication and Graphic Design double major, discussed how CD 5 allowed her to meet people she may

Abigail Rinard photo

Carpe Diem 9 will take place at Villa Maria Retreat Center on Nov. 1719. The nonreligious, student-led retreats are held once a semester.

not have encountered otherwise.

“I went on CD 5 and it was such a great experience. I didn’t know many people going into it, but by the end of the weekend I had made friendships and connections and memories with people I’d been walking past on campus for a year,” said Pollock. “It was immediately a very safe space that allowed me to open up and tell my story, which I think is an incredibly rare opportunity. I’m lucky to have had the experience and I hope everyone can have a chance to experience it for themselves.”

The community that forms between CD retreatants is a special and lasting one. Friendships formed on these retreats continue long after they return to campus.

“It’s a good time to get to know yourself and make lasting friendships,” said Katie Chontos, senior Biology major and CD 9 leader.

Many students who go on a CD later return as leaders, gaining a completely different, though equally powerful, experience.

Three such students are Natalie Merucci, senior Intelligence Studies and Psychology double major; Cole Prots, junior Graphic Design major; and Ryan King, senior Intelligence Studies major.

“Being a leader was the best experience,” said Merucci. “I loved being able to share the CD experience with a new group of students and be with them as they experienced either new things and people or found out more about themselves. I think it’s important for everyone to experience, because no matter where you’re at someone else is there too. It shows you that you’re loved, not alone and therefore should let other people meet you where you are and love you too.”

Prots was surprised by his first experience on a CD retreat.

“When I went on Carpe Diem 5 my freshman year, I had a good idea of what I was getting into,” said Prots. “I had gone on retreats during high school, so I was looking forward to the weekend away from the chaos of college. Little did I know that it would be more impactful than any retreat I had been on before.”

King and Prots expressed the solidarity that can be found in CD communities.

“My Carpe Diem experience was amazing, and going on the retreat is one of the best decisions that I have made in college,” said King. “It was truly a life changing and eye opening experience. You are able to realize that you are not alone in the experiences that you have gone through and that those experiences do not have to define who you are.”

“Being able to experience the stories of people who were at different stages of life was incredibly moving to me and helped me realize that it was OK that I didn’t have it all figured out,” Prots said.

CD 9 applications are available in the Campus Ministry lounge.

They are due, along with a $20 deposit, by Oct. 20.

“CD 6 was where I started to believe that there were more good people in the world than bad,” said Deanna Callerame, senior Biochemistry major and CD 9 leader.

Everyone is welcome on upcoming CD retreats, whether in November or on CD 10 this spring.

“I would recommend that everyone try to go on the CD retreats because they are so freeing,” said Prots.

FEATURES

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

PAGE 9

Caitlyn Lear photo

The theme for this year’s corn maze at Wooden Nickel Buffalo Farm is the farmer and the next generation.

Hurst students explore maze

By Caitlyn Lear

News editor

Fall is here, and that means pumpkin spice, football, colorful leaves, hayrides and corn mazes.

Wooden Nickel Buffalo Farm in Edinboro has brought in tourists for the past nine years with a themed corn maze. The maze started Labor Day weekend and runs until Nov. 4. It is open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, and 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

The maze costs $7 per person, and group rates are available.

Wooden Nickel Buffalo Farm opened 26 years ago and is known

for its bison meat. The family initially started eating bison meat to help with the high cholesterol and blood pressure that ran in the family. Since then, they have added a petting zoo, a restaurant, gift shop and corn maze.

“We started doing corn mazes nine years ago,” said Dan Koman, third generation owner and operator at the farm. “Each year we pick a different theme.”

Themes are picked based on the ideas that sound best at the time.

“We don’t really have a set way of finding themes. A few years ago, we did a local fire department theme. That idea came about because we were talking to someone

who worked at one of the local stations,” Koman said.

This year’s theme is the farmer and the next generation. The Komans also added a bridge, which connects the farmer’s and the child’s hands. The maze includes 16 mailboxes that “corn stalkers” must find. Each mailbox has a sticker that corresponds to one of the words on the map.

Some of the mailboxes this year include “hard work,” “legacy,” “heritage” and “tradition.”

As Halloween approaches, the maze gets more crowded.

“We tend to get more visitors during October. People like to come when it is a bit colder,” said

LAKER MOMENT

‘There is still S’MORE time until Hurst Day’

Amber Matha photo

A table with s’mores was set up in Garvey Park on Sept. 27. It teased students awaiting Hurst Day.

Parkhurst Dining put out a charcoal grill on Sept. 27 to make s’mores in an attempt to placate students who were upset about the lack of Hurst Day festivities.

Keeping with the spirit of Hurst Day jokes, and President Michael T. Victor’s attempts to comically mislead the university community on the date of Hurst Day, the table was accompanied with a taunting sign.

Koman. “This year, minus last week, we have been pretty busy.

Because of the warmer weather, we had less people come, which I expected. Many people like to come when they can bundle in sweatshirts and boots to trek through the mud.”

Mercyhurst has taken a group of students to the maze for the past few years. Students can pick to go in one of two groups and walk the corn maze with friends.

“It was fun, but a mess,” said Aleique Allen, senior Biochemistry major. “When I went sophomore year, it rained the night before, so my shoes were soaked. It was so muddy.”

For some students, Wooden Nickel Buffalo Farms is the first corn maze they have ever visited.

“We don’t really grow corn in Jamaica and we don’t celebrate Halloween, so going with Campus Ministry to Wooden Nickel Buffalo Farm was my first time,” Allen said.

The Komans work hard to bring people back every year for their unique mazes.

“People come from a good distance for the corn maze. I cut and organize my maze a bit different than most,” said Koman. “We get families, college kids and grown adults. Everyone seems to have fun.”

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 10

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Violin, piano duo to open Roche

By Lauren Ganger

Staff writer

Guest violinist Rachel Stegeman and recital partner pianist David Allen Wehr are coming to Mercyhurst as part of the Roche Guest Artist series in mid-October.

Their recital will take place Oct. 16 at 8 p.m., and a violin masterclass with Stegeman will take place Oct. 17 at 12:45 p.m.

Both events will be in Walker Recital Hall.

For Stegeman, who worked as a studio musician for soundtracks prior to her move to Pittsburgh in 2002, the commercial part of her background is not so isolated from her career as a classical musician now.

Stegeman writes, “I’d like to stress that to be successful commercially you need to have the same skills that it takes to be successful in the classical world.”

An active member of the Pittsburgh classical music scene, Stegeman can be heard this season at Duquesne University (where she is an adjunct violin professor), Youngstown Symphony as concertmaster and as the soloist in Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” in March, Wheeling Symphony as concertmaster, West Virginia Symphony as concertmaster, Johnstown Symphony as concertmaster, Pittsburgh Opera Orchestra as associate concertmaster, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Orchestra as associate concertmaster and with the Pittsburgh Symphony as a substitute first violinist.

This is her first recital at Mercyhurst University, but she did come to Mercyhurst last spring to judge the Civic Orchestra’s first annual Concerto and Aria Competition.

Contributed photo

Rachel Stegeman and David Allen Wehr will open the 2017-18 season of the Roche Guest Artist series on Oct. 16 at 8 p.m.

The recital will consist of Tartini’s “Devil’s Trill Sonata,” Grieg’s Sonata in C minor, Ravel’s “Tzigane” and Prokofiev’s Sonata in D major for Piano and Violin.

Stegeman played several of the pieces as a student and has returned to them as a professional to reinterpret them.

The “Devil’s Trill Sonata” is a piece that she studied in high school, and the Prokofiev piece was one she played for her senior recital in college.

That being said, what the pieces she chose have in common is that she loves them.

Furthermore, she is excited to be performing them in Walker, having been in-

trigued by the hall’s acoustics when she judged the Concerto and Aria Competition last spring.

When asked to discuss her selections, she writes that the “Devil’s Trill Sonata” is a “technically challenging piece” and tells listeners to “listen for the difficult double stop trills and the very intimidating cadenza at the end.”

The Grieg sonata, which features an exchange between violin and piano, is a “super energetic and driving piece for both instruments equally.”

Listeners should “listen for the mood changes in each movement,” Stegeman said.

Ravel’s “Tzigane” is a piece that Stegeman

has performed both in recital and with the Wheeling Symphony. Stegeman points out the “very long gypsy-esque cadenza at the beginning” and the simple theme presented after it that becomes the basis for variations.

Stegeman says that even though the piece is very rhythmic, “it should seem to be very improvised and free in the interpretation.”

Lastly, Prokofiev’s Sonata in D major for Piano and Violin is a piece Stegeman calls “a strikingly beautiful but very technically challenging work” for both instruments.

Stegeman tells listeners that they should try to pick out “the Russian strength of tonality and surprising cadences,” characteristics of Prokofiev’s that have given him a place as one of her favorite composers.

The masterclass the following afternoon in Walker will involve junior Violin students Kayla Bravchock, a Music Education major, and Grace Ferrara, a Music major.

Bravchock will perform the first movement “Allegro” of Mozart’s Concerto no.

4 for Violin, accompanied by collaborative pianist Joyce Kriner, and Ferrara will play the “Gigue” movement of Johann Sebastian Bach’s Partita no. 3 in E Major.

Stegeman said she is honored to be asked to perform at Mercyhurst and in a beautiful concert hall and hopes that she is able to successfully communicate the musical message from these wonderful composers.

She “hopes to inspire a musician out there to be truly great in their life and career.”

As with all Roche Guest Artist recitals, this performance and the masterclass the following day are free and open to the public.

The Met brings UPCOMING ‘Kingsman: The ‘Magic Flute’ EVENTS Golden Circle’ MOVIE REVIEW

By David McDonald

Staff writer

“Manners maketh the man” in the new “Kingsman” movie, where our favorite duo Eggsy and Harry must save the world from an evil madman — or in this case, mad-woman.

In this iteration of the raunchy yet beloved series, our favorite spy organization, the Kingsmen, are in dire straits and face their greatest opponent yet, a psychotic drug dealer named Poppy (played by Julianne Moore).

In this twisted rendition, the Kingsmen are on the brink of extinction and must team up with their American counterparts, the Statesmen, to foil Poppy’s plan to kill innocent civilians and force the president to legalize all drugs.

This movie, like its predecessor, stays true to the vile nature of the source material through grotesque deaths, crude humor and explicit sexual innuendo.

Yet the second fails to capture some of the magic of the first.

The first movie was special.

It had an entertainment value on par with a movie like “Deadpool,” but also had relatable characters like Eggsy.

The second, while still having the comedic quality and intense action of the first, failed to bring the personable nature to the new characters.

Eggsy is no longer portrayed as the everyman and is instead depicted to be living the high life by dating royalty and having a cool job.

Going further down the misfit cast of characters, however, reveals the same issues.

Channing Tatum’s character, who despite being heavily teased in the trailer, has 10 minutes of meaningful screen time.

Yet the screen time he does receive seems contrived just for the sake of laughs.

Even the character’s name – Agent Tequila – is meant simply as a joke.

On its own, the film is entertaining at best, but it failed to live up to the unique standard that its predecessor set.

Anyone looking to see a film on par with the first will be sorely disappointed, but will still leave mildly entertained.



By Steven Martz

Staff writer

Once again, the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts and Culture is transporting us to a wonderful performance at the Metropolitan Opera without having to learn “fake” English.

An encore of “Die Zauberflote,” popularly known as “The Magic Flute,” will be shown at the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Oct. 21.

The recording starts at 12:55 p.m. with doors opening at 12:30 p.m.

The opera has a total run time of 3 hours and 9 minutes, including a 35-minute intermission.

The opera is sung in German with “Met Titles” in English, German and Spanish.

The composer for this opera is Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the genius of the late 1700s.

Mozart actually died three months after the debut of “Die Zauberflote.”

Emanuel Schikaneder was the librettist, but also the original actor that played Papageno.

This fairy tale of an opera moves fluidly between earthy comedy and noble mysticism.

The interesting thing about this

opera is that it was written to appeal to the poor and noble class during its time.

It was truly written for the Vienna theater it was first performed in.

The opera is a song play, or Singspiel, format. Like any musical today, it is musical numbers connected by more of a play type atmosphere with dialogue and stage activity.

The creators of the opera were Freemasons, and Masonic symbolism is spread throughout the piece.

The opera is set in Egypt, but many producers decide to use a general setting that just conveys the otherworldliness the opera calls for.

The conductor is James Levine.

The opera also has a talented cast behind it.

Golda Schultz plays Pamina, the Queen of the Night is played

by Kathryn Lewek and Tamino is played by Charles Castronovo.

Other notable talents are Markus Werba, Christian Van Horn and Rene Pape.

Get your tickets online or at the Mercyhurst box office.

As always tickets are free for Mercyhurst students, $18 for an adult ticket, $15 for seniors and other students and $10 for youth.

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

Mercyhurst Civic Orchestra Oct. 29, 4 p.m., Walker Recital Hall

Juried Photo Exhibit Oct. 30-Dec. 15, Cummings Art Gallery ‘Guys and Dolls’ Nov. 2-5, Performing Arts Center Roche Guest Artist: Tabla for Two Nov. 6, 8 p.m., Walker Recital Hall MIAC Live: Lily Tomlin Nov. 7, 7:30 p.m., Taylor Little Theatre Faculty Recital: Hilary Philipp, oboe Nov. 15, 8 p.m.

Walker Recital Hall

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 11

‘Hamlet’ characters coming to the PAC

By Steven Martz

Staff writer

Contributed photo

Mercyhurst professor of Dance Mark Santillano holds fellow dancers in a pose reminiscent of Atlas during his time with Pilobolus.

A night of dance for all

By Megan Lay

Contributing writer

On Oct. 11, Mercyhurst University has the unique opportunity of showcasing Pilobolus Maximus: Beyond the Limits of Dance at the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.

Pilobolus’ repertory appeals to a wide range of people from first time dance observers to experienced dance critics.

Truly, there is something in Pilobolus Maximus for everyone.

Pilobolus is a uniquely creative, high-energy dance theater company, founded in 1971 by a group of college students without formal training in dance.

Now, 47 years after its inception, Pilobolus has toured 65 countries, challenging the ideas of many dance disciplines with their inventive partnering and creature-making.

Mark Santillano, assistant professor of Dance, performed with Pilobolus for three seasons (1995-1998).

When Santillano considered what was

unique about his experience with Pilobolus he said, “The creative process differs from most companies in that everything is collaborative.”

“When I was a part of the company, there were six dancers and four artistic directors involved,” he said. “So, we had 10 very opinionated, compassionate and creative people working on the same piece without a narrative, that could go any which way.”

Santillano is excited to see the current dancers’ interpretations of repertory and the company’s new works.

“Their best work all has humor, and they create some very thoughtful pieces,” he said.

“Most of the pieces, if any, have literal narratives. They are experts at creating images, moods and feelings. The dancers take you on an emotional ride without a narrative.”

Santillano also co-directs Mercyhurst’s resident modern dance company, SoMar Dance Works, which is inspired by his time dancing with Pilobolus.

When asked how he transitioned into

working with students after his time in the company he said, “I find it necessary to keep humor in my work. I don’t like to dwell in a dark place in my art and choreography.

“Through creativity, I let the students know that it is alright if they do not make a masterpiece every time,” he said. “Hopefully, the more they try the more they will figure out what works. When they are afraid to try things, that is where creativity dies, and they have trouble succeeding as artists.”

Before the 7:30 p.m. performance, Pilobolus will be hosting a master class for dance majors.

Students will be exploring creative problem-solving of physical questions given certain parameters.

Even if you have not made it to a dance performance in the PAC yet, Pilobolus is a wonderful introduction to dance.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for seniors and $10 for students and youths.

Tickets for Mercyhurst students are free with their ID.

The Mercyhurst Institute for Arts and Culture is once again outdoing itself with an amazing opportunity to attend the National Theatre Live performance of “Rosencrantz & Guildenstern Are Dead.”

Do not miss your chance to see an encore of this wonderful production right here at the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center on Oct. 22.

The performance will start at 12:55 p.m. Doors will open at 12:30 p.m.

Have you ever wondered about the minor characters in popular plays?

Have you ever seen a minor character in a play and thought about their lives?

The answer is probably not.

However, on the off chance you do, this is the play for you.

It follows the story of two minor characters around the story of Shakespeare’s “Hamlet.” Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are the focal point.

The play is a situational comedy around the drama that unfolds in “Hamlet.”

This means that while watching you will be able to pick out characters from “Hamlet” as well, almost like a little game you can play while watching.

The play was written by Sir Tom Stoppard, an British playwright who was knighted in 1997. It was first performed in 1966.

This time around, the play was directed by David Leveaux at The Old Vic theatre in London.

The stars in this play include the charming Daniel Radcliffe, the talented Joshua McGuire and the witty David Haig.

As always, tickets are free for Mercyhurst students, $18 for an adults, $15 for seniors and students of other institutions and $10 for youth.

Flautist Sage to take the stage at Walker

By Lauren Ganger Staff writer

Flautist Amanda Sage will give her first Mercyhurst performance on Oct. 25 at 8 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall.

A new addition to the D’Angelo department of Music faculty as the instructor of Flute, Sage teaches at West Virginia Northern Community College as an adjunct instructor, in addition to maintaining a large studio of private piano and flute students.

As a teacher, Sage uses her knowledge as a Certified Personal Trainer and Corrective Exercise Specialist to aid her students.

She writes that as a new faculty member she is “very excited to be working with the wonderful students and faculty at Mercyhurst.”

There is no theme to her recital per se; rather, she writes that she “wanted to present a program that provided variety and that also represented contrasting periods, styles and techniques taken from the solo flute repertoire.

Each piece on the program has its place and holds educational value not only to flute/music students, but to listeners and music enthusiasts as well.”

The program contains six pieces: Sonata for Flute in E major, BWV 1035 by J.S. Bach, “Cantabile et Presto” by Enesco, “The Great Train Race” by Ian Clarke, Moderato from Romantic Pieces, op. 75 by Dvorak, Sonata for Flute and Piano by Taktakishvili and “Carnival of Venice” by Briccialdi.

The Bach piece is one of the

composer’s later works, a piece in four movements for flute and continuo.

It follows the baroque sonata di chiesa form, which alternates slow and fast movements.

The Enesco piece was written as an examination piece for the Paris Conservatory in 1904 and was dedicated to Paul Taffanel, a professor of flute there.

“The aim of this piece was a more modest performance (and) the attention is meant to be on the music, not so much the performer,” said Sage.

An unaccompanied piece, “The Great Train Race” attempts to mimic the sound of a train.

Sage explains that it “incorporates extended techniques for the flute, including multiphonics, pitch bending and singing while playing.”

Furthermore, she says that this piece “will be a different and unique listening experience, due to the extended techniques that are not typically heard in pieces from what could be considered the more ‘traditional’ flute repertoire of the past.

Extended techniques are more and more common in the modern flute repertoire, so it is a unique and new development in general.”

The Dvorak piece that Sage will play originally featured two violins and a viola but was later arranged by the composer for a solo instrument and piano.

Sage will play the first movement of four, called “Cavatina.”

Taktakishvili, a Soviet composer from Tbilisi, Georgia, is known primarily for his vocal works and his style is characterized by folk

influences, particularly of Caucasus music.

However, Sage writes that she chose his flute sonata because it displays the flute’s “technical and expressive aspects.”

The Briccialdi piece, “Carnival of Venice,” is actually a theme and variations on a Venetian song that was popular during the composer’s time.

In addition to his virtuosity as a flutist, Briccialdi made improvements on the design of the flute.

This season, Sage can be heard performing with her woodwind quartet Bel Suono Ensemble and also as a soloist in chamber ensembles in Pittsburgh and its environs.

As with all Faculty and Roche Guest Artist Recitals, this performance is free and open to the public.

OPINION

PAGE 12

GOOD Homecoming weekend was a huge success with our football team’s victory over Gannon and the amazing hot chocolate and festivities throughout the weekend.

BAD When Hurst Day finally happens, all classes after 5:30 will be held. Boo!

WEIRD Putting our own Mercyhurst spin on things, during football games a first down is announced as a “Hurst down.”

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Roommates make or break the year Baldwin and McAuley, space can be an issue.

Furthermore, some people Staff writer are naturally very private or introverted and find it hard to adjust to constantly Having a roommate is communicating and spending something that many of us can time with others. be apprehensive about at first.

We all have annoying habits I remember receiving an whether we realize it or not. email from my roommate a few People can be clingy, noisy or weeks before school started and have conflicting sleep schedules. thinking that she sounded great, I have friends tell me that their but I was skeptical of how much roommate either never talks to I could know a person simply them, or talks way too much. from online communication.

A friend once told me that I am very fortunate in that his roommate embodies “every my first hunch was right and my single one of my pet peeves.” So, roommate is awesome. sometimes not ideal.

For me, having a roommate is Evidently, not all roommates an important part of the college are created equal. experience, and is essential Sometimes people are simply during the transition from your not suited to living with one parents’ house to world of another. The level of happiness adulthood. you’ll find with your roommate Roommates are helpful for largely depends on how well your lots of small things – to help compatibility on paper translates you when you’re locked out, to into real life. replace the toilet paper, to wake Boise State University found you up when you sleep through that 25 percent of students your alarm. nationally reported college Sharing our living space teaches roommate problems. communication, compromise and While this is not optimal, improved living habits. In many it is certainly reassuring that ways, having a roommate is a rite approximately three-fourths of of passage. us are happy.

That being said, it is not always As an international student, I a walk in the park. Particularly in was particularly invested in the

By Marina Boyle

roommate quest because my roommate would be the only person I would know when I arrived on campus.

I got lucky. My roommate is amazing, and we are really similar.

Her family has adopted me into theirs within a few short weeks and I always have a second home here. We have similar majors, and we like a lot of the same things.

Sharing your living space is definitely a challenge, but roommates are the best for certain things.

When you get along with each other, it’s like having a sleepover with your best friend every single night.

There’s always someone to turn to, to laugh with and to be there when you need to vent.

You can get a second opinion on everything from classes to take to clothes to campus events.

Advice is always available and hopefully helpful.

I think that having to learn how to live alongside someone else is an essential experience.

Roommates are essential in achieving personal growth, full socialization skills and communicational development.

It seems to me that Mercyhurst does us a great service by providing us with the opportunity to share our space with others.

The Merciad Grading scale worries Editors Amber Matha Cheyanne Crum Caitlyn Lear Abigail Rinard Bernard Garwig Jenny Sabliov Lauren Abbott Meghan Maker Chelsea Guida Megan Stubbs Kristin Bowers

Positions Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor News Editor Features Editor Sports Editor A&E Editor Opinion Editor Copy Editor Photo Editor Ad Manager Adviser

@mercyhurst.edu editormerciad managingmerciad newsmerciad featuremerciad sportsmerciad entertainmentmerciad opinionmerciad copymerciad photomerciad admerciad kbowers

The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst University. It is published throughout the school year, with the exception of finals weeks. Our office is in Hirt, Room 110. Our phone number is (814) 824-2376.

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 to box PH 485 or via email at opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

the scale ends up being.

I think that the work you put in

By Logan Ford will warrant the end percentage Staff writer in the class, and by extent the letter grade.

For example, if a student earns 92 percent (a B+) in a class, if Ever since I can remember the class was a 90-100 percent what a grade was, my teachers grading scale, the student may have taught that 93 percent and end up with an 89% instead, up is an “A.” which is still a B+.

Imagine my surprise when However, for simplicity’s sake, some of my college professors I would like to see a uniform explained on the very first day grading scale adopted across of freshman year that an “A” in every department. their class was 90 percent and It is exceptionally annoying above. that for a single semester you At first I was irritated. After all, an A in one of my classes was could have six different grading scales for every class and the considered a B+ in others!

I wasn’t alone, either. Students weight of these scales can be were raising their frustrations to vastly different.

For every one of the almighty the Provost, Dr. David Dausey, at syllabus’ dates and information, both of MSG’s townhall forums, it would be ideal not to have to and the Honors Program’s flip through each one’s pages to Provost Teas last year. find the grading scale for each The topic has continued into class. this academic year, with MSG Despite what the majority of even sponsoring it in a recent the students would like to see in survey. terms of a grading scale, we do Personally, I do not care what

not actually have a say directly.

The Faculty Senate is one of the governing bodies here at Mercyhurst, and creating a uniform system is under that group’s jurisdiction and would have to be that group’s initiative.

That isn’t to say that we as students couldn’t share our opinions with our instructors, but beyond that there is little we can directly do.

Be persistent.

Ask facilitators about the issue.

Get their opinions.

This is something that many students want to be changed, and it is something that students do not regulate.

If only one professor is asked once about the current scales, nothing will get done.

If this is something you are particularly passionate about, then ask each semester about updates, and ask each semester for your professors to raise the topic in Faculty Senate.

Change is possible but patience and persistence are keys.

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 opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

OPINION

OPPOSING VIEWPOINTS

Respect the anthem

By Michael Clevenger Contributing writer

Pretty much everyone can agree that the political climate of the past year has been tense.

But no matter what happens, there should be a certain line that shouldn’t be acceptable to cross.

This all started when Black Lives Matter supporter and 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick began kneeling during the playing of the national anthem.

It was August 2016 at the Chargers vs. 49ers game when this first began with Kaepernick, but now this protest has ballooned in scale after President Donald Trump called out kneelers during a rally in Alabama.

Trump made it clear that it’s important that NFL players stand at their games during the national anthem.

The following day, some whole teams kneeled in defiance.

Others, like my very own Steelers, were ordered to keep to the locker rooms during the anthem.

But a few chose to show deserved respect, such as Alejandro Villanueva.

Villanueva (No. 78) currently is an offensive tackle for the

Steelers, but formerly was an Army Ranger who served three tours in Afghanistan.

There were also the Colts, who chose to stand during the national anthem, but took a moment to kneel afterward, still making their point of the protest.

During that time, the ROTC battalion, which I’m a part of, was out in the middle of the woods for the entire weekend.

I was extremely confused when many of my friends and colleagues sent me all these videos on the NFL because many know I’m more of a baseball fan than a football fan.

After looking into the matter a bit more thoroughly, I could understand the outrage that unfolded among the football community.

As a member of ROTC, a cadet learns as a freshman during the first few weeks of class the customs, the historical meaning behind the American flag and the anthem, and what it all stands for through the eyes of the Army.

The flag, for example, is symbolized through the colors: the red stands for valor of those who fought, the blue stands for loyalty and the white for purity and innocence.

Overall, it is a symbol of national pride, and we face and

stand at attention to this symbol during the national anthem.

Kneeling during the national anthem is protected under the First Amendment.

But just because we can do it, doesn’t exactly mean we should do it.

Those people you’re disrespecting sacrificed either their lives or more so you could do something as ignorant as that.

Kaepernick said he kneeled to protest in favor of Black Lives Matter.

“Once again, I’m not antiAmerican,” Kaepernick was quoted saying in a New York Times story chronicling his saga.

But what I see is if you’re willing to overlook the brief minute of honoring those who have fallen for the betterment of your organization, then you’re pretty darn selfish in my eyes.

It was JFK himself that once said the infamous quote, “Ask not what your country can do for you — ask what you can do for your country.”

Well, a good start would be giving up a few moments of your time to respect the fallen and the affected.

I would’ve recognized Kaepernick, the NFL and their intentions much more if they just chose to “take a stand (or knee)” after the national anthem.

Peaceful protest is good beginning, has been about protesting social injustices such as police brutality incidents that Barucija occur in the United States.

Contributing writer The players legally have the right to partake in their Taking a knee during the protesting, which does not harm national anthem is not and anyone. While many argue that should not be considered politics and sports should never outrageous by any means, as it is be mixed, it is amazing that a subtle way of exercising First athletes are using their popularity Amendment rights. to spread awareness of social Colin Kaepernick, former issues in the U.S. despite all the 49ers football player, just over criticism and hysteria. a year ago started this debate Naysayers could very well be when he refused to stand for the aiming to divert attention away anthem in a preseason game. from what is really at stake while The national anthem debate preaching about patriotism. has recently received a newfound President Trump has openly vigorous response, likely said that players should not influenced by the tweets of none protest during the national other than President Donald anthem and utilize their rights Trump. under the Constitution, which President Trump has taken an establishes a perilous precedent. extremely firm stand on the issue, Discouraging athletes from claiming, among many things, engaging in peaceful protests players who kneel have no love implies that they should stay for their country or the flag, that in their place, which is wrong they need to be fired or punished because that prevents oppression and that their actions cause bad happening under everyone’s ratings. noses from getting the attention It is a logical fallacy to describe and respect it deserves. taking a knee as disdain for the America, a nation founded country and the flag, as all the on the virtues of liberty and players involved very much love freedom, should be encouraging their country.

NFL players to push on and This debate, from the very possibly lead to a new law being

By Admir

made instead of sternly criticizing them.

While the flag and everything it stands for are undoubtedly important, social inequities and the inferior treatment of part of the American population surely matters more.

Compelling everyone to stand for the anthem and thus stay obedient to the values that oppress them does not sound much like something that happens in a democratic system.

Those who criticize the kneelers should take the time to work on addressing persistent issues such as racism rather than question the ungratefulness of people that supposedly hate their country.

From the beginning, Kaepernick has been completely respectful and has not used extreme means to make his point, which is true for all the other NFL athletes as well.

Kaepernick may very well be a pioneer that could spark a social revolution in the United States, but these changes will naturally take an extensive amount of time.

Anyone who takes the initiative to change society for the better deserves nothing but the utmost admiration.

PAGE 13

HURST STUDENTS

SPEAK UP We asked: What is your favorite building on campus?

Alexandra Long, sophomore Political Science major: “I like the library because I work there, and it’s a great place to study and get away from all the craziness on campus.”

Yosel Nadik, sophomore Fashion Merchandising major: “I’d say my favorite building on campus would be Old Main, because the Fashion Department is on the top floor and that’s where I hang out most of the time.”

Hannah Rucinski, junior Archaeology major: “I like the basement of Zurn because it’s basically a second home. I’m always down here, either in a lab or in a class. I really enjoy the familiarity of all of it because all of my friends and professors are down here.”

Sarah Van Alstine, junior Art Education and English major: “My favorite building is the Bookstore because I love books and their coffee is the best.”

Compiled by Anthony Miller

Rock Out fizzles out

short lived. No other rocks were

By Amber Matha hidden after the originals were all

found.

If Mercyhurst really “rocks,” like President Victor said in his video about Rock Out Erie has been a great #RockOutMercyhurst, maybe community builder over the past an event could be planned where summer. students are allowed to paint I found my first rock after their own rocks and hide them coming back from my internship on campus. in Georgia when I went to I truly hope that Presque Isle State Park with a #RockOutMercyhurst becomes a friend. It was not even originally new, fun thing for students to do from Erie; it was painted by on campus. someone from Buffalo.

Like Merciad staff writer I was ecstatic when I heard that Rebecca Dunphy wrote last week Mercyhurst was going to do a in her opinion piece about the similar campaign to introduce the RockOut movement, “(the rocks) Class of 2021 to campus during represent something we need to welcome week. see more of in today’s divisive What I was disappointed social and political climate: to discover was that this positivity that transcends all #RockOutMercyhurst idea was differences.”

Editor in chief

SPORTS

PAGE 14

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Field hockey breaks even

By Marco Cicchino

Staff writer

It’s all situational, but let the craziness of PSAC field hockey continue.

Continuing strong defensive work, Millersville’s Alexis Gazzio scored 26 seconds into a scoreless overtime on Sept. 29 to prevent the Maruaders from suffering yet another upset.

On the other hand, Mercyhurst responded with four first-half goals against Converse College on Sunday to even the club’s record to 5-5, the first time they have been at or above even water this late in the season since the roller coaster 2015 campaign.

At 1-2 in the PSAC, the Lakers sit a half-game out of the cellar.

They are only two games behind first-place Shippensburg and Slippery Rock in what is setting up to be one of the closest PSAC races in recent memory.

Friday was no different for Marauder Coach Shelly Behrens’ defense, preventing a single shot on goal despite the Lakers maintaining their standard 3-2-3-2 formation.

Marauder Kathleen Bishop almost broke the stalemate by taking two corners in the third minute, but both were cleared away.

On 14 minutes, Victoria Triaga (5-4, 2.89) made two spectacular saves off a Kyra Brakefield corner — one of five in the first half.

But a well-deserved start for Laker senior Nicolette Tomani after scoring both goals on Sept.

27 against Mansfield did not go as planned.

Only three Laker starters even registered a shot against a Ma-

Contributed photo

Freshman Nicolette Tomani, left, of the Lakers readies her swing as a Millersville player approaches to do the same. The Lakers lost to Millersville 0-1, but beat Converse College 6-2 two days later.

rauder defense that still ranks fourth in the conference for scoring defense.

But the Lakers did continue to play arguably their best defense of the season, holding the Marauders to just one second-half shot and containing Bishop on two corners two minutes into the second half.

But on 57 minutes, just 1:27 after Tomani was re-subbed onto the field, two corners off the stick of Katie Lechner resulted in blocked shots.

Another stopped corner by Lechner set up both teams’ first overtime of the season, with the

Lakers posting three consecutive regulation shutouts for the first time since October 2001.

“We’re not going to win every game. I just want us to keep getting better every day we get to be together,” said Behrens in front of her high-school classmate, Laker head coach Stacy Gaudette.

“Today, we got to be a little bit better. We had some lulls, and I think again, that’s what a season does as it builds you. For us, it’s just a matter of playing solid defense, building up our kids, and just going out each day and getting better together.”

Two days later, the Lakers rebounded with four second-half goals in a 6-2 rout of Conference Carolinas opponent Converse.

The Converse Valkyries have begun their first season under Laker alum Kelsey Lovelace, who was hired in November to begin its first season after the school dropped the sport in 1983 after 11 seasons.

During the game, the Valkyries (0-8, 0-3) fell behind just 1:33 into the contest, as Taylor Balser scored unassisted for her to snap a 108-minute scoring drought for the Lakers.

During this time frame, Laker

freshman Leah Rogers had already doubled the deficit after she redirected a save behind Ciriaca Petitto (0-73 3.88), for her second of the campaign.

This came as a part of a 27-shot day that saw 19 on goal. The Lakers now maintain a 15-8 first-half scoring advantage, compared with being outscored 15-7 after intermission.

“We have a very solid forward line, and we have a lot of depth… also, so if we switch and we make substitutions, that makes it able for our forwards go hard … and have a solid substitute right after that,” said junior Maeve Magee, who made her first career start against the Valkyries.

“We have a lot of good offensive movement from our defenders to our offense,” said Magee.

“Everyone’s playing offense on our team. … Our roster is very ‘depth,’ [and] we were able to utilize that and our fitness.”

A 13-save effort for Petitto, her second-highest output in her freshman year, was far from enough, however.

Just 1:57 into the second half, Ahern lateraled a pass to Tomani for her team-high fourth of the campaign to open up a 5-1 lead before Lechner finally converted one of her seven corners to find Balser for her second of the game.

On Sept. 16, the Huskies won 2-0 on Tullio in the last of a threegame losing streak for the Lakers.

“This team is 150 percent different (than Mansfield) because we’re unified off the field,” said senior Amanda Frappolli. “(This) translated to being unified on the field.”

1-1 weekend for volleyball HURST

By Christopher Borraccia Staff writer

The Mercyhurst volleyball team broke even for the two-day period of Sept. 29-30.

On Sept. 29, the Lakers started out by beating Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania.

Initially, Lock Haven pulled ahead in the first set by breaking a six-all tie and winning with a score of 25-18.

However, the Lakers quickly recovered and managed to pull ahead rapidly in the first set of the second game.

At the beginning of this set, Lock Haven took the lead with a 6-0 point streak over the Lakers.

However, Mercyhurst responded by scoring five points and eventually gaining a 16-13 lead over Lock Haven.

The Lakers went on to win that set with a score of 25-22, evening the score of the match to a 1-1 tie.

During the third set, the Lakers began by taking the lead with an 8-0 run.

Laker sophomores Tess Ganich and Alyssa Zirnheld had four

kills and two aces, respectively.

Mercyhurst managed to stay in the lead that set and won with a score of 25 to 21.

In the fourth set, the Lakers had a four-point lead. However, Lock Haven caught up and won the set with a score of 25-17, evening the match score to 2-2.

The fifth set would see the Lakers take a 6-0 lead and maintain their lead over the course of the set.

Lock Haven attempted to narrow the lead and possibly get ahead, and even managed to narrow the score gap to 13-11.

The Lakers responded by scoring two points, with a block by junior Alyssa Kling and a kill by Ganich to win the game with a score of 3-2.

From here, the Lakers advanced to 6-8 and Lock Haven fell down to 8-7 for the season.

Sophomore Mary Marusza was optimistic. “Each game we’ve been getting better,” said Marusza. “we all fought as hard as we could.”

The next day, the Lakers faced off against the University of

“

Each game we’ve been getting better and better.”

Mary Marusza, Mercyhurst volleyball

Pittsburgh-Johnstown. Unfortunately, the Lakers would lose this match 1-3.

Coach Ryan Patton, however, was optimistic and commented on how Pitt-Johnstown is a top tier team.

“We got them out of sorts,” said Patton. “We did a really good job.”

Pitt-Johnstown is now 3-1 in the PSAC, behind only 4-0 Shippensburg in the Central division.

Pitt-Johnstown, however, does have a better record compared with the Red Raiders’ 11-5 with a 13-4 spread.

The Lakers took the second set with a score of 29-27, but the Mountain Cats took one (25-17),

three (25-19) and four 25-22.

Zirnheld and Ganich each had 11 kills for the Lakers, while junior Shelby Chesko and Kling had seven more to boot. Zirnheld also had two aces to add and Kling had one of her own as well.

After the loss, the Lakers are now 6-9 for the season and 1-3 in the PSAC. The Lakers will return to the Mercyhurst Athletic Center Oct. 6-7 and will face off against Clarion University and Indiana University.

Both of these games are further chances for the Lakers to improve their PSAC standings.

Currently, the Lakers sit at third in the PSAC Northwest, only above Slippery Rock in the fourteam spread. Slippery Rock has a conference record of 0-4.

After this coming weekend, the Lakers will finally meet crosstown rival Gannon University in enemy territory.

The Golden Knights currently sit on top of the Northwest at 3-1 and are 13-3 overall, and are tied with IUP and the Red Raiders for the most wins.

RESULTS Sept. 24-25, men’s golf at Bud Elwell Fall Classic and women’s golf at Allegheny International: Men

came in second; women placed first Sept. 30, women’s soccer vs. Kutztown:

2-4, Kutztown.

(Lakers are 2-4-3)

Sept. 30, men’s soccer vs. Salem International: 4-1,

Lakers (7-2)

Sept. 30, men’s water polo vs.

Mount San Antonio:

18-12, Lakers (5-5)

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

SPORTS

PAGE 15

Lakers beat Gannon 24-22

By Christopher Borraccia Staff writer

In a nail-biting and dramatic Homecoming game Saturday, the Mercyhurst Lakers football team pulled off a 24-22 win against Gannon University.

The rivalry win was a major cause for celebration for the 4,012 current and former Lakers in attendance at the Sept. 30 game.

The Lakers started off strong against the Golden Knights. At a little over 12 minutes into the game, redshirt freshman running back Garrett Owens closed off the first drive of the game with a 42-yard touchdown run.

Freshman kicker Mark Shafer booted the extra point in, bringing the score to 7-0 for the first quarter.

There would be little time for celebration, though, as the Golden Knights marched into the endzone at the 9:43 mark, tying the game at 7-7.

The following drive by the Golden Knights would put them over the Lakers for the beginning of the second quarter 10-7 with a 23-yard field goal.

However, this would be the only time in the entire game that Gannon held the lead.

The Lakers took the lead back with 3:46 to go in the half. Senior wide receiver Brad Novak caught a 42-yard touchdown pass from Mercyhurst redshirt sophomore

Mitchell Marsh photo

Redshirt sophomore quarterback Doug Altavilla readies his hands for the ball after the snap. Altavilla was 16 for 26 for 315 yards and had one touchdown pass against the Gannon Golden Knights.

quarterback Doug Altavilla to take the total to 13-10, Lakers.

The Lakers were denied the extra point with a Golden Knight block and a recovery that nearly lead to a safety for the Golden Knights.

Altavilla then scored a touchdown himself on a 1-yard dive, giving the Lakers an 11-point lead after both teams exchanged turnovers.

In the third quarter, Gannon scored a touchdown on a three yard run.

The score gap was then narrowed to 21-16, but the Golden Knights failed to convert on their extra point attempt for two points.

Schafer bumped the Lakers to a 24-16 lead with a successful 22yard field goal in the fourth quarter.

After this, the Golden Knights narrowed the score with another touchdown to make it 24-22.

Gannon desperately but unsuccessfully tried to score a touchdown as the Lakers defense ferociously fought them off.

After a long and intense battle, the Laker defense forced a turnover on downs by the Golden Knights, effectively ending the

contest right there.

As Gannon’s players walked off the field, ecstatic Lakers celebrated their hard-won victory.

The Lakers received the Niagara Cup, symbolizing their victory over the rival Golden Knights.

“I feel pretty happy right now,” said redshirt senior defensive back Tarique Ellis. “It’s nice to beat Gannon in back-to-back years.”

Ellis had three tackles and six assists on defense.

Junior tight end Bryce Mostoller was also thrilled about the outcome.

“It’s an unbelievable feeling just to knock off your rivals,” said Mostoller. “We brought intensity this whole game. We played well as a team.”

Head coach Marty Schaetzle, whose team is now 3-2 for the season, reflected similar thoughts.

“I think we were able to keep their high-powered offense in check,” Schaetzle said. “I’m really happy for our players, and for all the fans that came out to watch the game.”

The Lakers will return to Tullio Field on Oct. 7, this time against Slippery Rock.

Slippery Rock is ranked 18th in the American Football Coaches Association Division II national poll and pulled off an exciting overtime victory over fifth-ranked California University of Pennsylvania the same day the Lakers beat the Golden Knights.

Women’s hockey 0-2 MERCYHURST MEETS

By Marco Cicchino Staff writer

The Mercyhurst women’s ice hockey fell in their season opener by a 4-0 score on Sept. 28 and 5-1 the following night at LaBahn Arena in Madison.

After easily handling Lindenwood in their season opener last weekend, second-ranked Wisconsin beat the Lakers against its second-straight College Hockey America (CHA) opponent.

Laker Head Coach Michael Sisti opted to start second-string goaltender Kennedy Blair on Thursday night, one of three North Dakota transfers on his roster.

It was just 38 seconds after the Lakers killed off the Badgers’ third power-play of the opening frame when the Badgers’ Caitlin Schneider ricocheted a pass from Kyleigh Hanzlik into the net for her first collegiate goal at 17:13 of an 11-shot first period.

The Badger’s upstart hosts continued their strong offensive penetration into the second as Mikaela Gardener beat Blair’s legs at 11:03 off a pass from Sam Cogan.

But before the Lakers could regroup, the Badgers’ Abby Roque slotted a shot into the crease and onto Sophia Shaver’s stick for her second assist as the Badgers scored 2 goals in 59 seconds.

The following night, issues for

the Lakers on all facets continued as the Badgers greeted Sarah McDonnell no different than their 6-0 win here 19 months earlier in an NCAA quarterfinal.

After freshman forward Maggie Knott was called for tripping at 10:35, Alexis Mauermann for the Badgers slapped home a loose puck after Gardner sent the centering pass to the crease.

This allowed for Sam Cogan to screen McDonnell off to the left to open the scoring.

It wouldn’t be long before the contest spiraled out of control completely three minutes before the first intermission.

Laker freshman forward Summer-Rae Dobson was called for a trip on exactly 17 minutes, leading Badger Mauermann to dump a pass behind her back to Brette Pettet for the second power-play goal of the period at 18:07.

Folling this up, the Lakers went for a power play. Unfortunately, Laker freshman forward Alexa Vasko was called for a check from behind, ending her weekend early.

And three seconds after the ensuing power-play ended at 4:27, Mauermann found Cogan to extend the lead for the Badgers.

The Lakers would draw closer after their defense settled down.

Fieseler fired a shot which was initially blocked blocked, but she and Knott teamed up to find

Summer-Rae Dobson for her first career goal.

But the Badgers (4-0-0) ensured they would not suffer their first loss in 11 meetings with the Lakers.

The Badgers’ Gardner received a blocked shot from Schneider and Shaver, relaying to Pettet at 4:17 to regain a three-goal margin over the Lakers.

Pettet then finished off the 29th Badger hat trick of the season.

For the first since November 2014, Pettet of the Badgers came in 10 minutes later after intercepting a Laker clear to beat McDonnell (0-1-0).

McDonnell made 21 saves but allowed three goals for the 10th time in the last two season.

She falls to 6-9-1 since winning the CHA Goaltending Trophy in 2015-16, while the Badgers won their 16th straight home game and improved to 10-0-0 all-time at home in September.

“As the weekend went on we became a lot better,” said freshman defender Rachel Marmen for the Lakers. “This was our first game playing together compared to Wisconsin who already played 3 games before this week.”

The Lakers return to Erie for their home opener Oct. 6 against 7th-ranked St. Lawrence University.

Copy editor Meghan Maker contributed to this report.

COMING UP

LET’S GO, LAKERS! Oct. 4, Mercyhurst Soccer Field @ 4 p.m.: Women’s soccer vs. California University of Pennsylvania Oct. 6, Mercyhurst Ice Center @ 7 p.m.: Women’s ice hockey vs. St. Lawrence University Oct. 6, Mercyhurst Athletic Center @ 7:05 p.m.: Volleyball vs. Clarion University of Pennsylvania Oct. 6, Mercyhurst Ice Center @ 9:45 p.m.: ACHA hockey vs. Drexel University Oct. 7, Tullio Field @ noon: Football vs. Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania Oct. 7, Mercyhurst Ice Center @ 2 p.m.: Women’s ice hockey vs. St. Lawrence University Oct. 7, Mercyhurst Athletic Center @ 4:05 p.m.: Volleyball vs. Indiana University of Pennsylvania

PAGE 16

LAKER LIVING

Wednesday, October 4, 2017

HURST TOON Student-drawn cartoon by Periwinkle