Nov. 1 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, N OV E M B E R 1 , 2 017

|

VOL. 91 NO. 6

PAGE 10

Tabla for Two

Online poll results What did you do for Halloween?

Wore my awesome costume everywhere. (61%)

8: Veterans Day Tribute planned for football game 12: Op-Ed: Politics of Mercyhurst 15: MU hockey splits the weekend Photo contributed

Ate lots of candy.(18%) Slept all day.(12%) Caught up on homework. (9%)

This week’s

POLL

What do you think of the water bottle station?

merciad.mercyhurst.edu

PAGE 2

NEWS

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Contributed photo

The Free High School was unveiled to volunteers from the Dreams to Acts: Nicaragua initiative in February. Since then, volunteers have been fundraising for a second building.

Building dreams in Nicaragua

By Cheyanne Crum Managing editor

Dreana Ferguson, ’16, a second-year graduate student in the Forensic and Biological Anthropology master’s program, is currently fundraising for Random Acts’ Dreams to Acts: Nicaragua initiative. This is her third time fundraising for this program.

Random Acts is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to conquering the world one random act of kindness at a time, according to its website, randomacts. org. Dreams to Acts: Nicaragua specifically fundraises for the Free High School (FHS) in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua.

“FHS provides a free high school education to individuals who are unable to attend traditional high school, including women, adults, people who work during the week, people with children and people who live in rural areas,” said Ferguson. “This education empowers individuals to pursue their dreams, gain more independence and break the poverty cycle.”

In 2012, Random Acts fundraised to help the school purchase a bus. In 2015, they fundraised for a Center for Human Development, which became the first building of the Free High School. This round of fundraising is trying to get money to furnish the building, buy equipment and construct a second building in the campus. Random Acts has traveled to San Juan del Sur on three occasions, and Ferguson has attended all of the trips. She said she would like to go back again in February 2018.

“I remember visiting what at the time was the ‘construction site’ for the first time. Austin, the head contractor, walked us through the site with blueprints in hand,” said Ferguson. “He’d point to an area and explain how it would become a classroom, or a library or offices for the teachers. At the time, it was a bit hard to imagine.”

When visiting the school over a year later in February 2017, Ferguson said it was hard to remember what it used to look like.

“I remember (Austin) explaining different approaches he would use. The next day, we visited a health center that his company had previously built. It was absolutely gorgeous.

Just looking around at the architecture thinking ‘wow, this is going to work, this campus will be beautiful’ and two years later, it absolutely is,” said Ferguson. “It’s a bit different for us volunteers, because we don’t see the

Contributed photo

Dreana Ferguson, who met 6-year-old Vilma in Nicaragua, says kids like Vilma are the reason she volunteers with and raises funds for the Random Acts program.

progress day-to-day like the construction team does.”

The school sits on a hill, and Ferguson described the walk up it as a dramatic unveiling.

“We’ll be walking up the hill, remembering what the school looked like when we left, and without fail we are overcome with emotion when we see how different it looks once we reach the top of that hill,” she said. “In July 2016, I remember repeating ‘There are tiled floors!’ ‘There’s a whole second story!’”

Ferguson said on top of visiting the school construction site, there are two other parts to the group’s visit. They spend time in the rural areas of the Newton-San Juan del Sur Sister Cities Project that they partner with to build eco-stoves and bio-sand water filters. The third part to their trip is spent at the Barrio Planta Project, which is a children’s development center.

“BPP is fantastic because it offers these kids a chance to learn, play and be kids, regardless of their socioeconomic status,” she said.

BPP offers classes in English, music, dance, arts, sports and more.

“The play we sponsored was a ‘Nicaraguanized’ version of ‘Pirates of the Caribbean.’ The kids did such as great job and

they were so happy and excited. I always love visiting BPP and doing activities with these kiddos,” said Ferguson. “We went to see a performance the same day as the FHS Grand Opening Ceremony. Needless to say, it was an emotional day and night for us.”

The ceremony occurred in February 2017, and the volunteers’ reactions were filmed at the top of the hill. Ferguson said there was not a dry eye around.

“It wasn’t just a construction site anymore. It was a proper, functioning school.

I’m so incredibly thankful that I had the opportunity to return to see the grand opening ceremony for the first building. It was a huge celebration, because it was not only the grand opening of the building, but also the first day of school and the 15th anniversary of the Free High School being in operation,” Ferguson said.

During the first trip, in 2015, volunteers were helping to build water filters and ecostoves, but Ferguson spent the day doing something a little different.

“I spent my day attached to Vilma. Luckily for me, I wore a yellow shirt that day, and yellow is Vilma’s favorite color. At the time she was 6 years old, and insisted she was 60 if anyone asked her age,” said Ferguson. “She stole my hand, my phone and

my heart. She loved using my phone to take photos and videos of everything going on.

She learned how to take selfies with different filters, and I now have 74 selfies of her on my phone.

“Spending the day with Vilma will always be one of my greatest memories. When the bus returned to take us back to where we were staying, Vilma attached herself to me, buried her head in her hands and started crying. Leaving her that day was heartbreaking.”

Ferguson said it has always been clear to her that she is doing this for kids like Vilma.

“Because of Dreams to Acts, Vilma has clean water and does not have to worry about developing lung problems from her stove. Because of Dreams to Acts, kids like Vilma can one day take a school bus to the Free High School if they so choose,” Ferguson said.

Ferguson explained she found out about Random Acts through a friend who volunteered for their previous project building a children’s center in Haiti.

“When she came back home, she could not say enough positive things about the experience and about Random Acts as a whole. As for the Dreams to Acts project, I was drawn in because I strongly believe in increasing access to education in any way possible,” said Ferguson. “I’ve dealt with fighting to continue my education, albeit on a smaller scale, due to both financial issues and chronic illness. I know how stressful the question of ‘How will I pull off getting back to school?’ is for me most years, and I know how incredible it feels for me when I’m able to return.”

“We have big dreams. They include longer term goals of having an on-campus daycare center, of building an auditorium, of making this campus a university and more,” Ferguson said.

Although Random Acts originally planned to raise funds for the first two buildings, there may be continued involvement.

“Two fellow volunteers and I are currently having discussions with Random Acts, as well as the organizations we work with in Nicaragua, to figure out what we’re going to do moving forward,” said Ferguson. “Personally, I do plan to continue fundraising and doing everything I can to support the growth of this campus.”

You can donate to Ferguson’s CrowdRise page at https://www.crowdrise.com/dreams-to-actsnicaragua-2017/fundraiser/dreanaferguson.

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

NEWS

PAGE 3

New skills for Anthropology/ Archaeology student training

By Jordan Pendel

Staff writer

Edward Jolie, Ph.D., assistant professor of Anthropology/Archaeology and director of the Perishable Artifact Lab, completed two courses that will significantly enhance the department’s training and educational offerings for undergraduate and graduate students at Mercyhurst.

The courses will help incorporate applied archaeological crime assessment and investigation skills into future student training.

Archaeological Violation Investigation and Archaeological Damage Assessment Management classes were taught by forensic archaeologist Martin E. McAllister and his colleagues from Northland Research Inc. at the Bay Mills Indian Community in Michigan on Oct. 2-6. The first class provided training in all aspects of the investigation and prosecution of archaeological crimes, while the second class provided training on the management of the damage assessment process.

Jolie is already incorporating the information he learned into the courses he teaches, including his Anthropological Ethics course. He also sees the potential for graduate-level courses and is exploring possibilities for feebased training workshops.

“There’s the potential that conducting and performing archaeological damage assessment and report preparation is something that our department can do,” Jolie said.

A large part of the five-day program revolved around the Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979. According to the National Park Service website, the act was designed “to secure, for the present and future benefit of the American people, the protection of archaeological resources and sites which are on public lands and Indian lands and

Contributed photo

Edward Jolie, Ph.D., traveled to Michigan and completed two certificate programs that can be applied to student training in Anthropology/Archaeology at Mercyhurst University.

to foster increased cooperation and exchange of information between governmental authorities, the professional archaeological community and private individuals.”

Jolie believes he has enough of a nuanced understanding of the legislation as it is tried in court today to better teach it to his students.

“It’s one thing to read and know the legislation as it’s written, then have the opportunity to spend five long days with people who’ve lived it, breathed it and have testified to it in a court setting,” said Jolie. “They gave us these extensive copies of the presentations that speak to the content covered.”

He sees the opportunity to not only enhance what already is offered to students in the department, but also building it in as a modular component of a new

master’s program track they are working on. There are not many schools or programs that do this work, and the people who taught the course are essentially the only ones who do it.

Jolie has been reaching out to professors in other departments and the Seneca Nation of Indians in New York State for potential collaboration. McAllister has expressed interest in collaborating with Jolie and the school, which may lead to internship opportunities for students in the future.

“People don’t appreciate the extent to which the illegal looting and destruction of archaeological sites, and the collection and sale of antiquities that come from state and federal or tribal lands is intimately connected to narcotics — drug trafficking,” Jolie said.

Going into law enforcement classes or to the academy to talk to them about the potential

things to look for is something Jolie plans to do.

“If you’re finding drugs, keep your eyes out for antiquities,” said Jolie. “If you find and see antiquities, keep your eye out for drugs because they habitually go hand in hand.”

The men who taught the course Jolie attended have been behind every major antiquities-related sting operation in the U.S in the past 30 years. The classes align with Jolie’s interests, especially those that involve professional practice and the types of concerns that affect the general public.

Jolie believes that what he learned from the course can address inattention to underwater heritage and archaeological sites get in the Erie area. The Anthropology/Archaeology program will now have the opportunity to train students in how to properly document and write up reports

on site conditions and damage that can then be used to prosecute people who violate the laws in place at heritage sites.

“This is a skill set that we can offer that provides Mercyhurst students with a competitive advantage,” said Jolie. “Now we can help advise students on proper report preparation that attorneys, federal investigators, are going to be able to take to the court and say, ‘This is what’s gonna get us a conviction.’”

Public land managers have documented noticeable increases in the amount of cases involving damage to archaeological and cultural sites. This correlates with increased exploration of fossil fuels and politicians’ attempts to reduce protections for national parks and monuments. These important sites need protection, and Jolie and the department are trying to seize upon predicted future job growth in the area where people are going to need the expertise in this area if they want to be able to effectively manage state, federal and tribal lands.

“This now gets us thinking about what can we do to be proactive to protect important archaeological sites and cultural heritage sites,” said Jolie. “If we can be the people that they reach out to as a resource or our students working at any number of federal or private agencies can be, then it’s a win-win.”

The knowledge gained from these courses will allow for an enhancement of existing collaborative relationships across departments, as with helping recruit undergraduate and graduate students to Mercyhurst. Collaborations with law enforcement is important when archaeological sites are looted. Everything looters leave behind amounts to evidence that can be used to prosecute cases and potentially get the taken artifacts back to where they belong.

HOUSES FOR RENT MERCYHURST AREA Available 6/1/18 — Johnson & Johnson Properties

(814) 881-0050 | jjohnson@porterie.com

NEWS

PAGE 4

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Save green by being green Merciad IN A MINUTE

By Rebecca Dunphy

Alumnus to give speech Kyle Scully, Ph.D., will be speaking about psychopharmacology on Thursday at 7 p.m.

Scully graduated from Mercyhurst in 2008 with a degree in Applied Forensic Science with a concentration in Chemistry. The discussion will take place in Zurn 214.

Polar Plunge is heating up Don’t forget to sign up for the Polar Plunge. The event, a fundraiser for Special Olympics PA, will be Nov. 18 at Presque Isle State Park.

Mercyhurst is competing with other local universities to see which can raise the most money. To register, go to http:// specialolympicspa. org/erie-about-plunge and join Mercyhurst’s team.

Historians vs. justice system The History Club and Criminal Justice Association will go head to head in a trivia battle this Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. in Hirt 212.

Students can come with a team or join one when they arrive.

Remember: It’s time to fall back Don’t forget to set back your clocks this Saturday night.

Daylight saving time is ending. That means lighter mornings, darker evenings and an extra hour of sleep on Sunday morning.

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

Staff writer

Mercyhurst is taking a step toward a greener tomorrow with the recent installation of an eco-friendly water bottle refill fountain in Old Main.

Located outside of the provost’s office, the fountain is the first stage of a continuing process led by David Myron, vice president of Finance and Administration; Sarah Bennett, sustainability coordinator; and student ambassador Mark Mullinger to eliminate the need for plastic water bottles on campus.

“It is our hope that with fill stations around campus, students, faculty and staff will be more likely to use reusable water bottles than bottled water, which will cut down on the plastic we send to the landfill, cut down on the energy needed to recycling bottles and cut down on the unsustainable harvesting of water from natural resources,” said Bennett. “Additionally, water from our municipal water source is dramatically cheaper than bottled water.”

The campaign to instill this change on campus began over the summer when Myron came up with the idea for the water bottle refill stations.

“It was prompted by seeing so many students, faculty and staff carrying around plastic bottles of water in addition to seeing so many plastic water bottles in the recycling bins,” said Myron.

In his proposal to the Sustainability Fund Review Board,

Chelsea Guida photo

A new water bottle filling station is positioned outside the provost’s office. It was installed as a test of student interest, and more stations are planned for around the Mercyhurst campus.

he also cites the direct financial implications as a driving factor in his decision.

“If a 16-ounce bottle of water costs $1.50 and if one purchases a bottle every day for an entire year, one is spending $547.50,” said Myron. “The national average for the cost of water is $0.002 per gallon. Therefore, if one is to fill a 16-ounce bottle once a day, it would only cost $0.09 for an entire year.

“To review,” he said, “if one buys bottled water for an entire year, they are wasting $547.41.”

Bennett helped to make the program a reality by researching types of systems, ultimately deciding upon the Elkay EZ H20, a system noted for its hygiene, efficiency and sustainability. She also worked alongside Mullinger to determine places of traffic in the school that would be appropriate to install a station.

This information was compiled in a proposal given to the Sustainability Fund Review Board in September. Board members discussed and unanimously approved the request for $10,000.

An additional $2,500 was donated by the university and Mercyhurst Student Government.

Although only one station has been installed thus far, students are already responding positively.

“I’ve heard from faculty, staff and students that the new fill station is awesome,” said Bennett.

“I did overhear some students wondering why there was only one station installed by the provost’s office.”

Both Bennett and Myron confirmed that more fountains will be added throughout the year and that the Old Main location was a preliminary test of student interest.

“This was the first step to see if they will be used and accepted by the university community,” said Myron. “There will be 12 stations initially installed. Ten will be installed on the Erie campus and two will be installed at North East.”

Potential locations on the Erie campus include the Recreation Center entrance, Student Union by the main floor bathrooms, Zurn first floor, Audrey Hirt Academic Center, Warde Hall by the main bathroom, and in the 24-hour lounge. \Students are invited to begin using the water bottle filling stations right away and begin their own paths to water bottle free future.

Thoreau’s influence examined

By Marina Boyle

Staff writer

On Oct. 26, the Mercyhurst History Department and the Evelyn Lincoln Institute for Ethics and Society presented a panel discussion examining the life of Henry David Thoreau and his influence on the use of civil disobedience in American society.

The discussion, which was entitled “To Stop the Machine: Dissent, Nonviolence, and the Spirit of Henry David Thoreau,” took place this year in honor of the bicentennial of Thoreau’s birth.

Thoreau, most famous for his 1854 work, “Walden,” was also discussed in the context of his role as a transcendentalist, essayist, poet and philosopher.

The forum brought together four panelists from various academic disciplines and was chaired

by Chris Magoc, Ph.D., professor of History. Using readings from Thoreau’s works as well as modern examples, the speakers discussed the exercise of nonviolence in the historical struggles

for social, economic and environmental justice in America.

A focus of the panel was Thoreau’s call to action to “stop the machine” — words that have moved many to act since his 1849 publication of “Resistance of Civil Government” (“Civil Disobedience”).

Christina Riley-Brown, Ph.D., professor of English, opened the forum by speaking about the history of peaceful resistance in the United States.

Riley-Brown said that Thoreau called upon “the moral duty of every citizen to nonviolently oppose all injustices in a modern society,” and that Thoreau had contributed to the use of nonviolent protest by every generation since.

She provided examples from the current cultural climate such as the DACA Program, and read aloud some of the more radical words of Thoreau. A particularly impactful quote was his reminder that “that government is best which governs least. That government is best which governs not at all.”

Continuing to address the application of Thoreau’s principles, Kevin Sullivan, Ph. D., professor of Philosophy, spoke about Thoreau as a philosophical influencer.

Sullivan said that Thoreau had “called us all to live deliberately so that we can weigh the moral consequences of our actions.”

In doing this, he said, we are friction to the machine. Sullivan compared Thoreau to a Socratic figure, who truly believed in how life was to be examined in order to be lived.

Following this, James Fisher, Ph.D., of Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, spoke as the third panelist. He examined Thoreau from the academic disciplines of history, politics, language and culture.

Citing three examples from recent history — the work of Gandhi, the Birmingham, Alabama, Campaign, and the Antiwar Movement — he looked at the intersection of civil disobedience with constitutional rights.

Fischer expressed concern about the possible transition of this

resistance into violence, and the use of the “heckler’s veto” in free speech in modern society.

To conclude the forum, retired Edinboro history professor James Young, Ph.D., discussed Thoreau’s influence with reference to his own book, “Union Power: The United Electrical Workers in Erie, Pennsylvania.”

He spoke of the nonviolent struggle of local electrical workers to defend their union, and industrial democracy itself in the face of attacks during the time of McCarthyism. He called on the audience to leave thinking about our current society, and asking “What are we democratic about?”

In closing remarks, Magoc touched on the contemporary struggle to confront the climate crisis.

The panel ended with a collaborative question-and-answer session. While enjoying light refreshments, the audience was given the opportunity to ponder how one is called to live out the courageous spirit of Thoreau in today’s climate.

FOLLOW THE MERCIAD ON TWITTER USING #THEMERCIAD

NEWS

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

PAGE 5

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

This weekend’s campus events

Universities unite in business beehive

By Kristian Biega

Staff writer

People might think that Erie’s colleges are in constant competition, but when it comes to entrepreneurship, they are very much in favor of collaboration.

Mercyhurst University, Gannon University, Penn State Behrend and Edinboro University of Pennsylvania have come together to form the Northwest Pennsylvania Innovation Beehive Network, which seeks to help small and large businesses in the Erie region.

David Dausey, Ph.D., provost and executive vice president of academic affairs, calls this interplay of cooperation and competition “coopertition.”

“Recognizing the competition still allows you to find the mutual interests in any venture,” he said.

Each university will have a specialized beehive focused on one of the four stages of the business development network. Mercyhurst is specialized in business intelligence analytics, Gannon focuses on business development, Behrend focuses on engineering and design, and Edinboro is specialized in the advertising, marketing, and communications aspect of the business market.

The “beehive” term is used to show how efficient and specialized these market networks are among the four universities. Just like bees, each member has their job and does it exceptionally well.

“It makes a lot of sense to have the universities collaborate,” said Dausey. “The idea of advancing collaboration and synergies across universities is really critical. I think this project is a great demonstration of the good will among the universities and their desire to work together.”

This project came about through two aspects of Ignite Erie Industry in 2014: The Quickstarter Crowdfunding Program of Kris Wheaton, associate professor of Intelligence Studies, and the initial engineering beehive of Penn State Behrend. These programs were made possible through the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA) and the Ben Franklin Technology Partners.

With Behrend spearheading the

“

We need to talk more and more about coming together to keep identifying ourselves to the world. All of these universities have something unique and successful.”

Brad Gleason

project and already having an established collaboration plan with Mercyhurst Intelligence Program, the two universities agreed to partner on a grant from ECGRA. “When you are working with these things, especially at a small school, without David Dausey and the leadership of the school stepping up to approve our efforts and participation in these things, they would not have happened,” said Brad Gleason, director of the Center for Intelligence Research Analysis and Training.

As time went on, Gannon and Edinboro joined the collaboration to partner through two new grants from Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and the Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Agency (EDA).

These grants allow the universities to bring blended teams of students from each specialty together to help local businesses and innovators. The teams will have 28-35 market studies to complete from these two grants.

“We are used to doing market studies and analysis to that end here,” said Gleason. “But a novel piece is we are doing it with students from other schools, and we play to their strengths on the team.”

The blended teams come with huge positives for all those involved. Students receive faculty-led research and real world experience with local businesses.

Not only do the students get paid for their work, the beehive teams develop strong relationships with other universities and businesses that will potentially be interested in hiring for their companies.

“We are saying, ‘Let’s create a beehive network that once you come into that network as an innovator, we will do everything we can to keep you in it,’” said Gleason. “This changes the ‘rust belt culture’ of traditional Erie while at the same time, we can become and entrepreneurial cutting-edge entity.”

The beehives are a key part of Ignite Erie Industry’s goal of improving business development in Erie to support larger established businesses and encourage small business growth even in its risky environment.

Gleason sees the collaboration as an opportunity to make a larger statement about the Erie region.

“We need to talk more and more about coming together to keep identifying ourselves to the world,” said Gleason. “All of these universities have something unique and successful. We should use this to send a larger message to the region saying that we have all these varying successful capabilities and programs.”

Both Dausey and Gleason are excited to continue to enhance the program and encourage cooperation among universities.

“The beehive is a very important concept and one that really speaks well to the universities collaborating together,” said Dausey.

“It is certainly one aspect that this university is doing in reference to innovation, but not the only example of that.”

Gleason wants to focus the next few years primarily on delivery of the market studies.

“It is easy to get big eyes, but we are all about delivery. We have a lot to deliver with these new awards.

The opportunity for the beehive to get bigger is in the closest future,” he said. “That is the first thing to grow bigger and how to incorporate their skill sets too. That will make the whole network stronger.”

The collaborative project speaks to those from the past as well as to what may come.

“The sophomores, juniors and seniors that have worked on these projects leave a legacy of the good work that people have done in this region,” said Gleason, “It is a groundwork for something that is of value that we can continue to grow.”

On Friday in the Student Union Great Room, MAC will be hosting Dia de Los Muertos. The event runs from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. There will be a celebration of those who have passed, as well as food and face painting.

MAC and SAC are hosting a dodgeball tournament this Saturday. It will be at the Rec Center from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Prizes include tickets to Erie BayHawks and Erie Otters games and also a mystery prize.

MERCYHURST CAMPUS

CRIME LOG Oct. 22: Liquor law violation in Warde Hall.

Oct. 22: Theft on East Main Drive.

Oct. 23: Theft in Audrey Hirt Academic Center.

Oct. 27: Criminal mischief in Lot #10.

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, I am starting to really miss my dog at home. In high school, I would always study and hang out with him, and I’m having trouble motivating myself to do homework without his company.

I also used to like using the excuse that my dog ate my homework, but that clearly isn’t an option at this point.

I don’t live far away, but I also don’t go home often. Do you have any tips so that I’m not always missing my dog?

Sincerely, Dog Whisperer Dear Dog Whisperer, There are actually lots of things that can help you in this situation! Take advantage of FaceTime (if you have an iPhone) and have someone back at home FaceTime your dog to you. It may sound silly, but it really works. Your dog will hear your voice and probably even look at the phone a few times. If you don’t have an iPhone, try using the webcam on your computer for video. It also helps if you have a parent or sibling send you pictures everyday of different things your dog is doing. It can be a nice surprise to look down at your phone as you’re studying to see a funny picture of your dog. It might even help motivate you to do homework!

If you live in an apartment or townhouse on campus it is also possible for your dog to stay with you for a few days.

Just talk to your RA (and your roommates), and you should be able to work something out.

Sincerely,

Mia

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Tribute to honor Hurst veterans

By Amber Matha

Editor in chief

On Nov. 4, Mercyhurst will be recognizing Veterans Day with a tailgate and national anthem tribute during the football game against Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

The definition of a veteran, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, is a person who, “served in the active military, naval or air service, and was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable.”

Memorial Day, which is celebrated on the last Monday of May is celebrated to recognize those people who served in the military and died while serving. Veterans Day, celebrated each year on Nov. 11, recognizes all individuals who served in the U.S. military.

Josh Wahl, junior Public Health major, served as a sergeant in the United States Marine Corps for eight years.

“Veterans Day to me is a day to remember all of the veterans that had served in the armed forces,” said Wahl. “I do not particularly expect to be thanked from others by being given free meals or discounts (although it is nice), but rather just have everyone appreciate what we had fought for.”

Joshua Froess, junior Biology and Public Health double major, is a specialist in the Army National Guard and has served for four and a half years.

While it is important to honor the military personnel serving

domestically, Froess recommends honoring those who cannot be with their families due to deployment.

“Veterans Day is something important for me to more honor people who are deployed and men and women who have in the past been deployed, since they have done the most, especially if they are in a war zone,” Froess said.

Mercyhurst prides itself in being a veteran-friendly school. Services provided to veteran students include a full service veterans service office, a student resource center and priority registration.

“I do feel like I am appreciated within Mercyhurst with the ability to sign up for next term’s classes with the seniors,” said Wahl. “I also do feel appreciated in some of my classes I have taken in previous semesters by professors thanking me for the sacrifice I made, and also wanting to learn more about my life in those eight years.”

Karen Morahan, Ph.D., assistant professor of Nursing, served in the United States Air Force for 20 years and retired as a lieutenant colonel.

“I think that it is an important day to have to recognize the sacrifice that people have made for their country. Sacrifice does not necessarily mean that someone has sacrificed their life. But there are certainly other things that are sacrificed,” Morahan said.

Like Wahl, Morahan recognizes that some veterans, while appreciating the honor of Veteran’s Day would rather people be thankful

privately for what the veterans have fought for.

“I know that a lot of veterans do not want to be recognized and would rather just transition into civilian life and close that chapter of their life, but I do think that it is important to make the effort to give some recognition,” she said.

The Nov. 4 festivities will begin with a tailgate-style barbecue and conclude with a tribute during the national anthem. Morahan was involved in planning the event.

“We are hosting a barbecue-style buffet, and then the marching band will be there to play patriotic music. We have a 30-by-60-foot American flag that is going to be revealed for the national anthem,” Morahan said. “Our football players and our senior players are going to be the ones who hold the flag on the field. So we are trying to involve the student community as well. That will conclude the tribute itself.”

There will also be a plaque put up at the game on an easel. People will be able to sign it, thanking veterans for their service. After the game it will be hung in the Veterans Student Resource Center.

All of these events are appreciated by veteran students.

“I believe Veterans Day is important because I think that people take for granted the things that are given to them,” said Wahl.

“When Veterans Day comes around, I see a change in people’s attitudes towards this country and what privileges they had others fight for.”

OASIS program’s popularity grows at North East campus

By Rebecca Dunphy

Staff writer

Mercyhurst North East campus’ OASIS program opened its door to potential students, parents and professionals on Oct. 20 and 25 to educate the community about the program and how it sets a new standard for post-secondary transition institutions.

OASIS is a one- to two-year certification program that helps adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities learn academic, vocational and social skills that will help them transition more easily into the workforce. These crucial skills include making introductions, social engagement, searching and applying for jobs, and interview preparation.

“The overall goal of the OASIS program is to provide students with intellectual and developmental disabilities the chance to obtain and maintain useful employ-

ment,” said Katie Huba, interim program director. “It allows students to gain the useful hands-on skills for particular jobs, as well as for the hiring process.”

Students are given the opportunity to learn skills for a career in business administration, culinary arts, early childhood education or hospitality, in hopes that they will eventually receive meaningful employment. While students are asked to choose an area of study, the program not only provides a diverse education, but also creates opportunities to work with traditional students.

“OASIS is unique as it really gives the students more options to choose from,” said Huba. “Students participate in three to four courses a semester, and of those courses, only one is OASIS specific. It really offers the opportunity for full inclusiveness.”

Inclusiveness is a pillar of student success, as OASIS strives to

give students a college experience with the ability to live on campus, have access to its many amenities and attend events hosted by the student government.

The comprehensive program that Mercyhurst North East provides has not gone unnoticed as its popularity has begun to increase, as evidenced at the recent open house.

“In previous years, the turnout for these events has been small,” said Huba. “This year, we had almost 30 people attend the event.

OASIS believes that as the need for post-secondary transition programs grow, so will attendance of these events.”

This semester’s open houses have passed, but interested families can expect another opportunity to learn about the program in the spring. More information can be found online on the Mercyhurst North East website, or by calling 725-6299.

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

FEATURES

PAGE 7

Lauren Abbott photo

From left, Torin Van Rheenen, freshman Sports Medicine major; Dante Dewane, freshman Intelligence Studies major; Nick Bartone, freshman Intelligence Studies major; Michael Rossi, freshman Intelligence Studies major; and Haden Bates, freshman Sports Medicine major, were ready for Halloween.

Trick or treat, college style

By Lauren Rogus Staff writer

The tradition of trick-or-treating at Mercyhurst is a newer addition to the school, giving students and staff an opportunity to engage in Halloween festivities.

Bethany Brun, coordinator of Service Learning, is the Recognition Committee chair for the Erie Staff Senate, which was responsible for organizing the event.

“Trick-or-treating across Mercyhurst began about two years ago as a result of the Staff Senate Recognition Committee’s desire to increase student visibility in the staff offices,” said Brun.

“Students go a lot to their professor’s offices, but they do not always know where Finance, or where Residence Life is located, or where the Graduate Office is or where the Health Center is.”

Brun hopes to grow the committee’s efforts each year.

“This is a great way for students to get around campus and meet different staff members as well as figure out the locations of some offices that they may want to frequent in their upcoming years,” Brun said.

There were 28 offices and departments participating in trickor-treating on the Erie campus, placing containers filled with candy outside offices and on desks.

Academic Support, Campus Ministry and Service Learning were just a few departments participating in the event.

The faculty and staff enjoyed the opportunity to see students wear costumes, while simultaneously providing information about their work.

“Academic Support has done trick or treat every year I have been here — so three years,” said Kerrie Findlay, academic counselor. “We see some people get really into it and do group costumes.

I like trick-or-treat because I get to meet new students that maybe

never came to Academic Support before and now they know where to find us and we can let them know what we do.”

One of the major benefits of having the trick-or-treating event across campus is that it gives staff and students an opportunity to interact.

“This gives different opportunities to the staff members to also have fun with students because there are some offices that will never see a student’s face. So this is a good way to get them interacting with students, as well (putting) a face to their work,” Brun said.

Another exciting aspect is that even the staff get to dress up in fun costumes.

“President (Michael T.) Victor gave us, as employees, the ability to dress up for the event so we got some dispensation to be out of our normal garb, which is really fun,” said Brun. “I think it is fun because when you start to grow up, you do not always get to trick or treat. Plus, we have a huge international population, and they get the opportunity to experience an American holiday as it is celebrated here. Mostly, I think it is fun to see everyone dressed up and having fun on that day.”

Nora Arkelian, business administrator in the Hammermill Library, enjoys seeing students dress up and have fun.

“It is a nice way to have kids wind down and dress up (in) various costumes,” said Arkelian.

“We see them as they come to the circulation desk. Why not trick or treat? Who cares if you’re in college?”

The Information Technology department in the Hammermill Library often has fun themed decorations.

“IT goes all out every year.

One year they turned a room into a Harry Potter-themed room,” Arkelian said.

Lauren Alfieri photo

Treat bags were provided for students to use for candy collection.

Lauren Alfieri photo

The IT Help Desk always puts out a container of candy, participating in the campus wide trick-or-treating.

FEATURES

PAGE 8

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Sustainable shopping

By Claire Eichner

Staff writer

Contributed photo

“RiverBlue” discusses the environmental consequences of fashion.

On Oct. 23, the Sustainability Club and Fashion Council at Mercyhurst collaborated to bring the award-winning documentary “RiverBlue” to campus.

Actor Jason Priestley, a clean water advocate, narrated the film, which “uncovered the dark side of the fashion industry.” It examined negative effects of the fashion industry on rivers around the world.

Sarah Bennett, sustainability officer and lecturer of Biology, gave an overview of the documentary.

“It took viewers on trips around the world to examine the environmental and human health impacts of the fashion industry. Much of the impact is in Asian countries, but those impacts have far-reach-

LAKER MOMENT

Cheyanne Crum photo

What do students at Hurst do with a chilly day off?

Five freshmen girls in Baldwin built a fort out of couch cushions and blankets to enjoy their Advising Day off with some Halloween movies such as “The Addams Family.”

Some of the girls in the group are Emma, an Art Education major; Kimberly and Demerise, Art Therapy majors and Megan, a Music Therapy major.

Cheyanne Crum photo

ing effects,” said Bennett. “The film highlighted that it is developed nations who are driving the massive and unsustainable production of clothing and shoes.”

It is difficult, as individuals living a developed nation, to see the impact that the desire for fashion has on the environment.

“A lot of water is used to dye and process garments, and most of that gets dumped directly into local streams and rivers,” said Bennett. “The countries where these garments are produced do not have the environmental protections that we do in the U.S. Also, this dumping has contributed to killing all of the wildlife in many rivers in Asia and destroying drinking water sources.”

Ashlee Rzyczycki, instructor of Fashion Merchandising and

adviser for the Fashion Council, brought about the showing of this film. Collaborating with the Sustainability Club to sponsor the film on campus was her idea.

“We decided that the two clubs and the sustainability office could sponsor the event, and the clubs would sell snacks for a fundraiser,” Bennett said.

After showing the film and exposing the damage that is being inflicted on rivers and wildlife around the world, Bennett gave two major steps that supporters of the fashion industry could take.

“The first is that we all can purchase fewer, better items of clothing so that we buy less over time, and number two is that we can search for ethical clothing and shoe companies and buy clothing from there,” Bennett said.

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

FEATURES

PAGE 9

Erie County elections On Nov. 7, Erie voters will go to the polls to vote in important races. In the City of Erie, a new mayor will be chosen for the first time in 12 years. Throughout Erie County, residents will vote for Erie County Executive. The Merciad asked the candidates for both offices to respond to questions about their campaigns. Neither candidate for Erie mayor — Democrat Joe Schember or Republican John Persinger — responded. Below are the responses from the Erie County Executive candidates — Democratic incumbent Kathy Dahlkemper and Republican challenger Art Oligeri.

ERIE COUNTY EXECUTIVE’S RACE

Photo from candidate’s Facebook page

KATHY DAHLKEMPER Party: Democrat Age: 59 Hometown: Erie Career Background: Former U.S.

Congresswoman; co-operated business (Dahlkemper Landscape Architects & Contractors) with husband; dietitian.

Community Involvement: Founded and operated Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park in Erie. Serves on national opioid task force and governor’s Local Government Advisory Committee. ow do you see the office of the H county executive affecting Mercyhurst students’ lives? County government, in

general, provides a variety of services that affect your everyday life. If you call 911, for example, that goes to a county dispatcher. Other county services include health and human service functions. But what might most affect you, as students, is the county executive’s leadership in providing a broader vision for the future of Erie County. That includes creating a vibrant community that young people want to live in. We work to create and maintain green spaces, to improve transportation, to enhance culture and to support a thriving economy.

Many Mercyhurst students are from outside of Erie. What would you do to make them want to stay here after graduation? Whether you’ve come to

Erie County to attend Mercyhurst or have been born and raised here, we want you to stay here, work here, raise your own family here. The first thing we must do is make sure that we have plenty of businesses offering goodpaying jobs to attract recent college graduates. And we also have to make sure that our community is one that you enjoy. We think of things like affordability and livability, as well as culture and entertainment. Ultimately, we work every day to make Erie County a place where you will want to work, live, play and stay.

What is your take on your party’s national politics, and how does that affect this race? To me, one of the

best parts of working in government at the local level is that you don’t have the vicious partisanship that you see at the state and federal levels. For the most part, we work together, Democrats and Republicans, to do what needs to be done to serve the people of Erie County. However, it is important to realize that federal policies have a real impact on the county. This includes things like funding for the EPA, which keeps Lake Erie healthy or for community grants that provide valuable services. These funds are now at risk.

Photo from candidate’s Facebook page

ARTHUR OLIGERI III Party: Republican Age: 63 Hometown: Erie Career Background: Graduated in

1974 with a B.A. in Business from Mercyhurst College; retail shoe business since 1968; opened store in 1985.

Community Involvement: President of West Erie Plaza Merchants Association; President of St. George Parish Council; School Board; Chair Couple for various church events; soccer coach; Chairman of National Barber Institute Shillelagh Event Committee. ow do you see the office of the H county executive affecting Mercyhurst students’ lives? The Erie County

executive must continue to see the County grow economically, educationally and socially. A strong and healthy community enhances the college experience. This allows Mercyhurst students not only (to) receive a great education, but also have career opportunities upon graduation.

(It) would also include a safe environment, cultural choices, social service options (and) a great social life. The low cost of living is certainly appreciated by all college students.

The county executive is a partner in all

aspects of community life.

Many Mercyhurst students are from outside of Erie. What would you do to make them want to stay here after graduation? After four years at the

university, (students) will find what a great place Erie is to live, work and raise a family. As Erie is reinventing itself, graduating students will see career opportunities in exciting areas and new fields. We have become a strong education center including the largest medical school in the country and postgraduate options. I would certainly talk to and help in any way in the process as I have done in the past in my role during the annual career night. That role certainly would be expanded when elected. My heart is at Mercyhurst and I would do all I can for Mercyhurst grads.

What is your take on your party’s national politics, and how does that affect this race? I am a strong

advocate of bringing jobs back to America. Let’s focus on more jobs and less government. At all levels of government, we need to focus on job creation, not in the public sector but the private sector. We need to make our county and state more business friendly.

We need to duplicate the efforts of the national level on the state and local level. We need to work harder, and achieve results to get more Americans working.

PAGE 10

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Tabla for Two plays for peace

By Jenny Sabliov

Arts and Entertainment editor

The Mary D’Angelo department of Music is having unique musicians coming to Mercyhurst University as a part of its Roche Guest Artist Series.

The musicians are Tabla for Two, which is made up of Masood Omari and Abigail Adams Greenway.

Omari is from Ghazny, Afghanistan.

In 2002, he obtained his gurmani (or mastership) from Araf Chishty, who was his ustad (meaning a respected teacher and master).

He shares the Punjab lineage with Zakir Hussain, who is one of the most well-known tabla players in the world.

Omari’s compositions consists of a combination of classical Eastern beats with the Western style.

He can play the dholak and harmonium, and he sings.

He is also the only artist who can play the tabla and sing at the same time.

Greenway is originally from Erie. After she met Omari, she changed her career from the visual arts to music after being enraptured by Omari’s tabla playing.

She studied under him for two years and then formed Tabla for Two with Omari. She has had her art featured in an exhibit in the Erie Art Museum.

The performance will include Sofya Savkina, a guest dancer from the Ural mountain district in Russia. Savkina will be dancing for five of the songs.

The performance is entitled “Playing for Peace.”

Their goal in this performance

Contributed photo

Tabla for Two will be coming to Mercyhurst on Nov. 6. Sofya Savkina, left, is the dancer who is will be accompanying duo Masood Omari, right, and Abigail Adams Greenway.

is to ensure the continuance of the traditional music of Afghanistan and India and to help Western audiences appreciate it more.

The performers truly represent how music can be intertwined across cultures.

This performance is a conglomeration of 20 songs consisting of old Bollywood, classical, folk and new compositions.

The songs will be sung in Farsi and Hindi.

Farsi is the indigenous name for the Persian language.

If you are a fan of Bollywood, you may recognize the song “Chup Gaye Sare Nazare” from

the classic 1969 film “Do Raaste,” “Baharo Phool Barsao” from the 1966 film “Suraj” or even “Mo He Bhool Gaye” from the 1952 classic “Baiju Bawra.”

This is not the first time Tabla for Two has graced the stages of Mercyhurst.

“Tabla for Two first came to Mercyhurst in 2014, and the Walker Recital Hall filled to capacity. They had to set up chairs on the stage because there were not enough seats in the Walker Recital Hall,” said Nathan Hess, D.M.A., director of the Roche Guest Artist Series and chair of the Music department.

‘American Made’ review

By Kristofer Gossett, Ph.D. “American Made” is an interesting title for a film that was marketed as a feel-good “Tom Cruise is the good guy who has fun and smiles his way to an ending fitting a protagonist as charming as Tom Cruise.”

That was the movie I went in to see and, honestly, I would have been OK with that.

Cruise is still at the top of his game and he rarely falters even in movies that are not so good (case in point, this summer’s “The Mummy”).

As the movie started to move forward into the major plot points, it was very apparent this was not really the movie I was going to see.

Doug Liman (“Jason Bourne”

SPOTLIGHT

MARIANA MATHEWSON

MOVIE REVIEW

Contributing writer

ARTIST

and “Mr. and Mrs. Smith”) had another story to tell, and it was much more intriguing than the one I thought I was going to see.

The movie is based off of the real-life story of Barry Seal who was recruited to do photographic reconnaissance over Central American countries in the late 1970s and early 1980s.

The CIA recruited him to make these runs and provided him with a considerable amount of incentive in the form of cash, planes and land.

Cruise plays Barry as a charming yet morally challenged individual who skirts by with his audacity and charm as long as he can.

I can’t really give away the plot points, but it’s one of those rare movies that captivates you even though there really is not a “good

guy” to root for throughout the entire film.

Sometimes it’s fun to watch bad people do bad things for bad reasons.

There are more layers to this film than just a flimsy biopic of a CIA pilot from 40 years ago.

The title “American Made” makes you think about how our culture churns out characters like Barry Seal.

This was a role tailor-made for Tom Cruise, and if you like him at his charming best, do yourself a favor and check this movie out.

It’s a fun watch, regardless, and a rare fall movie that is easily recommendable.



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

Hess said, “I was looking for something different and I wanted to see if they were interested in coming back.”

The recital will take place Nov. 6 at 8 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall.

The next day, there will be a masterclass from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m.

The masterclass will be an interactive opportunity for all Music majors, instead of the usual select few who play the instrument.

Both of these events are free and open to the public because they are being sponsored through the Terry and Margaret M. Roche Family.

I am a senior Music Education major with concentrations in Cello and Composition. My senior recital is on Nov. 18 and is the culmination of my hard work over the last four years. I am presenting works by Bach, Beethoven and Brahms for the first half of the program and three original works that I have written during my time here. The solo piano piece is based on the Zodiac, and will feature projections artwork by my childhood friend who is an art major at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The other two compositions are art songs featuring Shelby Mayberry, soprano, and a string quartet in three movements.

‘The Exterminating Angel’ comes to PAC

By Steven Martz

Staff writer

The Mercyhurst Institute of Arts and Culture (MIAC) is exposing the Erie community to an amazing opera performance at The Metropolitan Opera.

MIAC is live streaming “The Exterminating Angel.”

The streamed performance is on Nov. 18 at 12:55 p.m. in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center. Doors will open at 12:30 p.m.

The opera will have a total run time of 2 hours and 40 minutes with a single 30 minute intermission.

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

The opera was composed by Thomas Adès, and the libretto was written by Tom Cairns.

The creators of the opera have very hands-on roles in the opera itself.

Adès is conducting, and Cairns is producing.

“The Exterminating Angel” was inspired by a Luis Buñuel film that shares a name.

“The Exterminating Angel” follows the story of a dinner party where the guests cannot escape.

The opera takes place at a very large mansion in the 1960s. It is suggested to be located in Mexico City.

The story never really explains why the guests cannot leave.

The once-sophisticated group turns more and more primal as the opera progresses.

The cast includes Audrey Luna, Amanda Echalaz, Sally Matthews, Sophie Bevan, Alice Coote, Christine Rice, Iestyn Davies, Joseph Kaiser, Frederic Antoun, David Portillo and David Adam Moore.

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

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

CONCERT REVIEW

MU Civic Orchestra has ‘fateful’ debut

By Lauren Ganger

Staff writer

On Oct. 29, the Mercyhurst Civic Orchestra took to the stage of Walker Recital Hall to perform two Eastern European, Romantic Era pieces.

The first, Dvorak’s Violin Concerto in A minor, was directed by guest conductor David Tedford, D.M.A., with Jonathan Moser on solo violin.

The piece on the second half of the program, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony no. 4, was directed by Moser.

The orchestra’s sound was warm and full, filling the hall and accentuating each change in dynamics and mood.

The selected pieces showcased the different sections of the orchestra, with each section producing a balanced, unified sound.

As the orchestra has grown, so have its sound and color matured, at times blending so beautifully as to create the aural impression of a sea of sound enveloping the audience.

The Dvorak piece, the first on the program, showcased Moser’s sensitivity as a violinist and the orchestra’s ability to transition to an accompanying role without losing any of its power or musicality.

At times, dreamlike violin passages contrasted with stately responses from the orchestra.

The piece ended with a competitive interplay between the soloist

PAGE 11

UPCOMING

EVENTS Faculty Recital: Hilary Philipp, oboe Nov. 15, 8 p.m., Walker Recital Hall Wind Ensemble Nov. 19, 4 p.m., Performing Arts Center Small Ensembles Nov. 29, 7 p.m., Walker Recital Hall

Contributed photo

Dance presents: ’Tis the Season Dec. 1, 4:30/8:30 p.m., Dec. 2, 11 a.m., 3 p.m., Performing Arts Center

The Mercyhurst Civic Orchestra had a successful performance at Walker Recital Hall on Oct. 29.

and the ensemble.

The third movement of this piece was joyous and dance-like, with lively violin passages given a delicate accompaniment by various instruments throughout.

The movement built to an unhindered and free conclusion, with the music growing in power and enthusiasm but never escaping the control of the musicians.

At times, the soloist seemed to join in with the first violin section, to escape dramatically just when the listener grew accustomed to the blending of the voices.

Moser took the conductor’s podium for the Tchaikovsky, dedicating the same level of energy to his conducting as he did to his violin performance.

Although the symphony was

very light and carefree at times, the foreboding theme from the brass section that began the piece made reappearances throughout, keeping the piece grounded and keeping the joy in check.

As Moser noted before the start of the symphony, the theme was meant to symbolize “fate” herself, a force against which the composer struggled.

The third movement of the symphony was of note as the strings played entirely pizzicato, calling and answering one another in a chattering dialogue.

When the woodwinds entered at the cue of the oboe, they were gentle and smooth, communicating with one another with a sort of controlled affection before stepping back for the strings to

enter again.

Tellingly, the brass section was tacet for this lighter movement, but the ominous theme of fate returned in the final movement.

The final movement was frenzied at times while at other times it found an uneasy calm that never lasted very long.

The brass section became more daunting, and the parts the other instruments played seemed to struggle against it.

The coda was wild and frantic, though never without control, ending on a chord held in a glorious crescendo before finally releasing.

After having given this auspicious debut to their 2017-18 season, the Civic Orchestra can be heard next on Dec. 10 at 4 p.m.

Jazz Ensemble Dec. 2, 8 p.m., Taylor Little Theatre NTL: Peter Pan Dec. 3, 12:55 p.m., Performing Arts Center MIAC live: Danu Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m., Performing Arts Center Christmas Concert Dec. 10, 4 p.m., Performing Arts Center

Second annual concerto competition accepting applications until Nov. 21

By Lauren Ganger

Staff writer

The D’Angelo Department of Music and the Mercyhurst Civic Orchestra have announced the second annual Aria and Concerto Competition.

This program was introduced by Jonathan Moser, instructor of music; violin, viola, string techniques, music history, chamber music, in his first year as the conductor of the Mercyhurst Civic Orchestra.

The concerto competition culminated in a successful concert last year that featured Shelby Mayberry, voice; Isaiah Howard, flute; and Deven Shah, piano, as soloists.

Students who wish to audition for the competition must be either high schoolers who have participated in the Mercyhurst Civic Orchestra or Mercyhurst Chamber

Music for at least one semester, or Mercyhurst University students who are enrolled in private lessons.

College student soloists do not need to be Music majors to be considered for the competition.

One high school student and two college students will be selected to perform with the Mercyhurst Civic Orchestra on May 6 at 4 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall.

The concert will be $5 for adults and $2 for students, faculty and youth 12 and under.

Soloists should demonstrate musicality, have a good presence on the stage and be good performers according to Moser.

Moser hopes that this program will raise the profile of the Mercyhurst Music department and provide students with the incentive to join the orchestra and enroll in private lessons.

For students, there is the added benefit of giving them the opportunity to perform with an orchestra, which is rare at the collegiate level.

Moser said that he hopes this will encourage prospective students to consider Mercyhurst.

The judges are yet to be determined, but Moser said that he will be “looking for colleagues who are not familiar with our program,” in the hopes that the selection of the winners will be as unbiased as possible.

In addition, he said he hopes that exposing Mercyhurst to professional musicians in this way will raise the college’s musical profile.

In this vein, he notes that one of last year’s judges, Rachel Stegeman, returned to Mercyhurst this semester as a Roche Guest Artist a few weeks ago after having voiced

her admiration of Walker Recital Hall’s acoustics.

Auditions will take place at the start of the spring semester.

Pieces should be memorized and no longer than 20 minutes long; as audition slots are 10 minutes long, cuts should be made for the audition.

The deadline for applying to audition for this competition is fast approaching.

Students who wish to be considered for the May 6 concert must submit an application by Nov. 21.

The auditions will take place on Jan. 21. at 3 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall.

Feel free to contact Moser with any questions regarding the audition process.

The application form can be found online at: www.mercyhurst.edu/dangelo-departmentmusic/2017-18-concerto-competition.

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

OPINION

PAGE 12

GOOD Due to Daylight Saving Time ending, we all get to turn our clocks back an hour and get an extra hour of sleep on Sunday morning. Yay!

BAD It’s snowing. Bleh!

WEIRD “Shaun of the Dead” posters have been popping up all around campus.

Beware!

The Merciad 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.

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

’Tis the season for local elections

“

Representatives for the area before running for County Executive four years ago.

Staff writer Oligeri is a local businessman, and believes that his knowledge would aid him if he wins on Election Day. Election Day is less than a As with the mayoral candidates, week away!

Dahlkemper and Oligeri’s Although the president isn’t up websites in addition to their for election and it’s not midterms debates on YouTube can be yet, Erie still has important consulted for their policy ideas decisions to make. and issue stances.

If you’re registered at Local elections are often the Mercyhurst, that means you get a ones in which your vote counts say in those decisions and should the most. be educated when going to cast Erie County experienced a your vote.

It is refreshing to see them huge voter turnout in the 2016 Among other races, Erie’s mayoral race has been well talked both run very clean races; in fact, election but had a staggering the two men are neighbors. low turnout in the 2017 primary about.

Their respective sites and a election.

For the first time in years, YouTube search for their debates Election Day is on Tuesday, a Republican has gained can give further insight into their Nov. 7. major momentum going into policy and project ideas.

If you’re registered to vote November.

The Erie County Executive is in Pennsylvania, go online to John Persinger is that also up this November. https://www.pavoterservices.

Republican who brings White Kathy Dahlkemper is the pa.gov/Pages/PollingPlaceInfo.

House experience to the table.

Democratic incumbent, and she aspx to find where your polling From the Democratic field, Joe Schember is running for the is being challenged by Republican place is.

Art Oligeri.

Be educated, and don’t miss mayor’s office. He is a lifelong Dahlkemper served a out on exercising you right!

Erieite with strong business ties term in the U.S. House of Political rant over. in the community.

By Logan Ford

If you’re registered at Mercyhurst, that means you get a say in those decisions and should be educated when going to cast your vote.”

Politics of Mercyhurst We barely even start the year before people are already talking Contributing writer about which offices they’ll be running for.

Politics surrounds us. It is The number of people who are present in family dynamics and two-faced is alarming. the professional workplace.

How is one supposed to And yes, politics are believe (maybe hope is a better even found here at our own word) that our elected officials Mercyhurst University. aren’t making backhand deals They exist in the offices here at behind closed doors when the Mercyhurst, I’m sure, as they do student leadership we see every in offices all over the country, but day here on campus can be about they also exist on our level. as far from transparent as can They exist in classrooms, in our be?! dorms, and in our organizations.

Organizations such as those Granted that our peers will mentioned are often meant to be eventually be the competition a nice way for a student to enjoy we face for the job market, but his or her time with friends with some of the political actions I’ve similar interests. witnessed here on campus are Now, however, it seems that just as disgusting as the ones we so many are consumed with the all criticize in Washington. power-hungry race for the best While clearly present in some résumé to care about the “fun” of the student organizations on or “relaxing” aspect. campus,politics stretch down to It puts a damper on things for the most recreational of clubs, everyone else. though maybe to a lesser extent.

It would be different if people In many cases, there are quiet sought leadership roles because conversations starting in the first of their passion, but being months of the academic year president of Organization X about who will be running for appears to becoming more and what position for the following more simply a résumé stuffer. year.

When a student has a passion

By Mikael Drake

for the position and activity they are in, it shows. When they’re just using it to put on a résumé, that’s even more obvious.

The negativity isn’t contained to just the institutions run by students, though.

Classrooms and academic programs are just as vulnerable to the cut-throat game that some seem to enjoy playing.

Competition for research opportunities, internships and even getting closer to professors cause some students to undermine others.

Politicians have a bad reputation sometimes.

They are (sometimes accurately) accused of manipulation, sabotage and being corrupt.

Mercyhurst is a small community, and word spreads fast.

There is no reason for us to mimic the ways that we hate seeing in our politicians. We should be the leaders we wish they were, the leaders we wish we will inherit the Earth.

Be open and transparent; don’t covet power for the sake of power. It isn’t that hard.

FOLLOW THE MERCIAD ON TWITTER WITH #THEMERCIAD

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, November 1, 2017

OPINION

New water bottle stations bring joy

By Marina Boyle Staff writer

I once learned in an environmental studies class that there is an area in the Pacific Ocean about the size of Texas that is filled with empty plastic bottles.

Yes, the entire state of Texas — just in bottles.

That fact has made me feel guilty ever since every time I throw away a bottle.

That’s why I was so excited to see our new bottle-filling stations to combat the amount of plastic waste we generate as a campus each day.

The first of these, located in Old Main, is easy to find and use.

One of my friends dragged me there only about two hours after it had been installed, and we could tell from the clever electronic dial that already 179 bottles had been filled.

By the end of the day, at least 500 had been saved from the landfill.

This initiative shows the power of an active Sustainability Office on campus.

The use and misuse of water is a very significant issue, and these fountains create such an easy way for everyone to make a considerable difference in terms of the planet.

That being said, the location

“

Most of all, I just like being able to fill up my bottle really quickly and go about my day, knowing that we are becoming more and more globally responsible as a student community.”

of the station in Old Main is inconvenient for a large proportion of students who don’t have classes there, and more stations are definitely needed in a variety of locations.

The promotional video featuring Luke the Laker was super cute, but it does ironically show Luke waiting in line, which will definitely be the case if the stations aren’t more diversified.

Furthermore, we are a little behind the times here.

My high school has had water bottle fountains for as long as I can remember, and most of my friends said the same.

I believe there is still a long way to go, but Mercyhurst is definitely on the right track in terms of sustainability and waste

prevention.

In fact, last year Duke University brought in a similar initiative with 50 reusable bottle stations, and we probably need at least half as many for this to have a campus wide effect.

Duke officials estimate that in the past year, students and staff have saved about 400,000 plastic bottles.

They also have a running competition to see which residence building and which faculty department can save the most, and that is definitely something we could introduce here.

Perhaps swiping your OneCard at the fountain could enter you into some kind of raffle or reward scheme to encourage filling station use over buying bottled water in the C-store.

Even without prizes, the fountains might prove popular by themselves.

Most of all, I just like being able to fill up my bottle really quickly and go about my day, knowing that we are becoming more and more globally responsible as a student community.

Overall, I think this is a truly powerful development and something that we should be excited about.

It is rewarding to see the difference you make each time you cut down on your waste, and doubly rewarding to see your peers do the same.

Some SAC/MAC events are a disappointment

By Rachel Hull

On a Friday or Saturday night, our students want to relax and Contributing Writer get away from all of their studies and stress.

One of the best things about They cannot accomplish this Mercyhurst is how involved our by attending events loaded with students are. bleak and somber material.

Most people are involved in Our classes serve to introduce at least one club or organization us to the problems and distresses and are running from one event of the world, so events at these to the next. times should not continue to do Some of my favorite events, so. along with that of the student Offering events that are more body, are those put on by the upbeat will not only lift students’ Student Activities Council or spirits but may also provide a Multicultural Activities Council. better turnout.

SAC and MAC deserve to be This is not to say that events congratulated for the variety and should not be educational, compelling nature of many of or should not include guest the events that they put on. speakers.

This being said, I believe that Many would agree that some of the events could be those are sometimes the most improved. beneficial and interesting events Recently, these events have to attend. been rather dark, and to be frank, However, they should have an depressing. overall positive atmosphere.

PAGE 13

HURST STUDENTS

SPEAK UP We asked:

What spring class are you excited for?

Erin Jenkins, junior Art Education and Art Therapy major: “I am most excited for Painting with Professor Burke next semester. I love painting, and I really have enjoyed having classes taught by Professor Burke in the past.”

Rachel Ritz, freshman Early Childhood and Special Education major: “I am most looking forward to Inclusive Practices PreK- 8. This course will help me in the classroom as I learn about the prominent issue of inclusion in schools. Plus, I am so excited that it has a clinical in it.”

Vincent Marrazzo, junior Intelligence Studies, Information Technology and International Relations major: “The class I am most excited for is Terrorism with Dr. Danzell. This course is such a prevalent topic people need to know in this field.

They need to be prepared for this topic.”

Sarah Kline, freshman Intelligence Studies major: “I am most looking forward to my Global Issues class next semester.”

Compiled by Lauren Rogus

2 cents on 10 cents

machine.

But is that seriously something worth complaining about?

If they are inspiring (which, Miller The only way I can imagine again, many would be pleased Staff writer this inconveniencing someone with) it should not come from a is if they only had 10 pennies in place of dread and despair, but Recently, the price of goods their pocket, and the only way rather end on an encouraging at the vending machines around they could get what they wanted note. campus have gone up. from the machine would be to It also acceptable to schedule Some students are upset about put in the dollar and then insert events that are just fun for the this, and I believe those students each individual penny. And since sake of fun. are being ridiculous. the machines don’t even take For instance, last year there The truth is that I don’t pennies, this might be a problem. was an event that took students understand why people would be But I can’t imagine this to a corn maze. upset over this. situation ever happening. Who This type of event is exciting Sure you pay a bit more, but even carries pennies nowadays? because it gives students an it’s only 10 cents.

This is the perfect example of opportunity to go beyond If your financial situation is so a first-world problem. campus to see all the wonderful, dire that spending 10 cents more I think it speaks volumes of fun things that the Erie area has for candy at the vending machine just how well off many of us to offer. is going to sink you, you have are that a legitimate concern for Overall, the majority of SAC bigger problems to deal with. some students is that it costs 10 and MAC events should be I imagine this can be a minor more cents to get candy at the exciting and focused on the fun, inconvenience for some, as you vending machine. creative programs that we have Imagine how lucky we all are come to expect and appreciate — can’t just put in one dollar to buy most items anymore, meaning to be in a place where the most not events that leave us feeling you have to physically insert 10 of our worries is something so more drained then when we more cents into the vending trivial. arrived.

By Anthony

FOLLOW THE MERCIAD ON TWITTER WITH #THEMERCIAD

SPORTS

PAGE 14

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Field hockey finishes 7-11

By Marco Cicchino

Staff writer

A disappointing yet momentum-building campaign for Mercyhurst field hockey crashed into the offseason on a rainy Oct. 28 at Tullio Field.

A shootout Oct. 25 also handed the Lakers a frustrating shutout defeat at the hands of the Seton Hill Griffins earlier in the week.

The Lakers fell to Shippensburg University Red Raiders, who stayed atop the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) standings heading into the conference tournament.

Despite a 25-shot attack, while top-ranked Shippensburg lit up Laker goalie Victoria Triaga for three first-half goals and held off a furious comeback to snatch a 4-3 win and take further momentum into the conference tournament.

The Lakers (7-11, 2-8) finish the campaign with five more wins than their 2016 season, but five of their seven were against nonconference opponents.

Three days earlier, the current version of the Griffins (4-14, 1-9) needed four shootout goals off Triaga to snatch their first and only conference win of the season.

A defensive battle saw the Lakers pepper 25 shots, including 20 after the first half on the Griffins’ Alexandra Piekarz.

Piekarz managed to hold off the Lakers’ Katelyn Smith only after Triaga stopped Maia Cheeks in a 3-all shootout.

The Griffins’ Ashley Curnow

Contributed photo

From left: seniors Amanda Frappolli, Paige Albright, Taylor Balser, Jessica David, Katrina Bruzda and Nicolette Tomani.

then turned the ensuing score off Triaga into the Lakers’ sixth loss in their last nine games.

Bryna Cook and Kayla Chapman worked to open the scoring, but Piekarz stopped Christina Mertz to spark four straight conversions by the Griffins.

Despite having already secured the top spot in the conference tournament in their previous game, the defending national champion Red Raiders (14-3, 9-1) kept their engine running against the Lakers.

Taking advantage of Laker coach Stacy Gaudette swapping Leah Rogers for starting forward Katie Ballew at 7:21, the Red Raiders’ Brooke Sheibley took advantage of the ill-timed substitution and found Lauren Zengulis

exactly two seconds later.

It was just six minutes later that the Red Raiders’ Kylie Huffman converted next off a corner from Caitlyn Wink, the first of a combined six straight goals off a corner-stroke opportunity.

In the interim came a flurry of 13 Red Raider shots, five of which were turned aside by Triaga, but the Red Raiders were able to get another in to make the tally 3-0.

It was just 3:31 into the second half that the Red Raiders stretched their shot advantage to 19-1 overall to keep the Laker defense on their toes.

The Red Raiders’ Jazmin Petratonio struck her eighth of the season, adding onto a day in which the Laker defense allowed at least 20 shots and the Red Raider of-

fense recorded such.

But the tide began to turn 46 minutes in, after Red Raiders goalie Ally Mooney stopped Nicolette Tomani in front.

On the ensuing corner 30 seconds later, Laker junior Kaitlyn Lechner, coming off her first two goals of the season, came down the field and found Clare Ahern.

Ahern assisted Tomani, who punctuated her Senior Day with her team- and career-high ninth of the season. Tomani marks the first time a Laker has recorded that many in four years.

Eight minutes later, Lechner sent home her third of the season to cut the deficit to two with 15:59 remaining in regulation.

The Red Raiders immediately subbed in Catherine Matuszko as Mooney allowed at least as many goals as she made saves for the first time since Sept. 9 in Bloomsburg.

It initially appeared Matuszko would fare no better than her mentee, as Lechner’s fifth and final corner of the half with 5:32 left in regulation resulted in a stopped shot eight seconds later.

But one more Parr corner and Triaga’s last of her season and career-high 11 saves couldn’t generate any more momentum as the Red Raiders held off.

“I think that despite the weather and the fact that they were the No. 1 team, that we did a really good job of playing against them,” said Smith. “The comeback was great because it just shows how well we can play field hockey as a team together.”

WRITER’S PICKS Top Offensive Players Nicolette Tomani and Clare Ahern. Tomani led the team with a career-high 9 goals in senior season, six more than any other player, including two two-goal efforts and a run of seven goals in six games. Led team with a .253 shot percentage.

Ahern accounted for seven assists and put 53.7 percent of her shots on net, fourth among players with at least 10 shots on goal.

Top Defensive Player Abigail d’Amato. Started all 18 games after being named the team’s top freshman in 2016.

Consistently played the ball out of midair, allowing her to play horizontal in midfield.

Biggest Surprise Alexis Skibitsky. Came back from a significant injury to appear in 14 games and record three goals on just 10 shots, including her first multi-goal effort Oct. 22 against St. Thomas Aquinas.

All-Conference Predictions First Team: Tomani (forward); Second Team: Ahern (forward), d’Amato (midfield); Third Team: Bryna Cook (forward), Paige Albright (midfield).

HURST Men’s water polo goes 3-0

RESULTS Oct. 28, Football vs. California: 21-31, (Lakers are now 4-5)

Oct. 28, men’s soccer vs. East Stroudsburg: 1-3, East Stroudsburg (Lakers are now 12-5) Oct. 28, women’s soccer vs. Mansfield: 6-1, Lakers (5-9-4 finish) Oct. 27-28, volleyball vs. East Stroudsburg and Kutztown: 3-2, Lakers against East Stroudsburg; 3-1, Lakers against Kutztown (Lakers are now 9-15)

By Chris Borraccia

Staff writer

Mercyhurst water polo had a very strong weekend in a threegame series Oct. 28-29 at Monmouth College.

On Saturday, the Lakers immediately started off strong. Competing against Monmouth College, the Lakers won by 5 points in a 14-9 victory.

This win snapped what was a seasonlong four-loss skid entering the tournament.

The Lakers shined in the second quarter, when they managed to outscore the Fighting Scots 5-1, taking a 9-4 lead.

Monmouth narrowed the score gap to 11-7 later in the game.

However, early in the fourth quarter, sophomore Alex Cappuccio scored two goals for the Lakers.

These two goals, alongside a goal two minutes later by junior Philip Jenny, enabled the Lakers to stay ahead until the game ended.

Junior Connor Schmitz led the Lakers, scoring four goals on five shots overall.

Jenny scored two goals and two assists. Junior Matt Bachler had

three helpers to go with one goal.

Bachler and goaltender Andrew Too-A-Foo also had five steals each.

Mercyhurst went on to beat McKendree University in their second game with a much closer final score.

Despite leading the Bearcats 8-3 at one point in the second quarter, the Lakers faced strong resillience from their opponent entering the second half.

McKendree would eventually tie the game at 8-8, and the two teams subsequently traded goals.

The early fourth quarter saw McKendree take the lead by two points, but Mercyhurst held on and battled to a tie once more.

The Lakers did hold a 14-12 lead with less than four minutes left in the game, but the Bearcats weren’t ready to throw in the towel yet.

With 1:59 left in play time, McKendree scored once more to position themselves one goal behind Mercyhurst.

However, the Lakers kept their opponent from getting a shot off until the very last second of the game, which was unsuccessful.

The final was 14-13, Lakers.

Jenny scored seven goals overall. Four of these goals, came in the fourth quarter, when the Lakers were trailing by 2, and 6:24 left in the game.

Jenny scored his goals on 10 shots, and drew 10 exclusions. He also picked up an assist, and tied sophomore Daniel Alvarez with five steals.

Bachler also had a solid game, picking up three goals and two assists.

On Sunday, the Lakers topped the weekend off with a win against Salem International. Initially, the Lakers led 5-2 in the first quarter.

However, Salem brought the game to a tie 1:34 before half time.

From here, Salem started the third quarter by taking a 1-point lead. Mercyhurst retaliated by going a three-goal run and took a 13-11 lead.

It wasn’t until the end of the fourth quarter that the Lakers were able to declare themselves the winner.

Salem managed to get within one point with 11 seconds remaining in the game for a final of 16-15, Lakers.

Schmitz led scoring with five

goals overall. Bachler had four goals and four steals.

Alvarez scored two goals with four assists, and three steals defensively.

Head coach Curtis Robinette was optimistic when asked for comment.

“Our anchor, senior goalie Andrew Too-A-Foo, had some key saves throughout each game,” said Robinette. “He made some huge saves late in games to keep us ahead.”

Robinette also mentioned junior Alec Diaz, and his contributions on defense.

Robinette said that Diaz’s defensive work allowed Jenny, Bachler, and Schmitz to “shine on offense.”

The Lakers finish the regular season with a 9-9 overall record.

However, they hold a 6-1 conference record as they move into the Collegiate Water Polo Association Tournament scheduled for Nov. 4-5.

The tournament will be held at Cathedral Prep Events Center in Erie. After that, the only thing left on the team’s schedule will be the Mid-Atlantic Championships held in Annapolis, Maryland.

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

SPORTS

MU hockey splits

By Breonna Bailey

Contributing writer

In back-to-back games against the Bentley University Falcons, the Lakers walked away with a loss and a win.

The Falcons opened the scoring in game one’s first period to give themselves a 1-0 lead.

The scoring remained that way until the second period, when Les Lancaster (assisted by James Anderson and Jeremy Wu) put the Lakers on the board.

The game remained tied until 2:14 into the third period, when Bentley’s Kyle Schmidt broke the tie to give the Falcons a 2-1 lead.

Not three minutes later, Bentley’s Luke Santerno managed to net one in and put the Falcons up 3-1.

Leading into a power play opportunity for the Lakers, Jonathan Charbonneau scored (assisted by Lancaster and Joseph Duszak), cutting the Falcons’ lead in half.

A short 20 seconds later, the Lakers’ Kane Elliot (assisted by Anderson) put another one on the board to tie the game once more.

The game remained tied at 3, until Bentley’s Connor Brassard shot in a tiebreaking score with 6:09 remaining on the clock.

PAGE 15

MEETS COMING UP

LET’S GO,

LAKERS!

Nov. 3, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania @ 7 p.m.: Volleyball vs. Cheyney University Nov. 3, Penn State University @ 2 p.m.: Women’s ice hockey vs. Penn State

Ric Kruszynski photo

Lakers celebrate during their Oct. 27-28 series at Bentley University.

From here, the Falcons would go on to win the game.

In game two however, the Lakers came back on Saturday to win 2-0, giving the Lakers their first Atlantic Hockey win.

There were only 15 seconds left in the second period when Taylor Best (assisted by Matthew Whittaker and Joshua Lammon) managed to find the back of the net.

The Lakers went on the power play with 1:40 remaining in the third, and Jack Riley netted one

just before the buzzer, giving the Lakers a 2-0 win.

Laker goalie Brandon Wildung made 24 saves for the game and recorded his first shutout of the 2017-2018 season.

“It’s great to see him rewarded with a shutout tonight,” said Lakers head coach Rick Gotkin on Wildung’s goaltending in Saturday’s game. “He’s been very good for us all year.”

The Lakers take the ice next Nov. 3-4 against Penn State.

Nov. 3, Penn State University @ 7:05 p.m.: Men’s ice hockey vs. Penn State Nov. 4, Tullio Field @ noon: Football vs. Indiana University of Pennsylvania (Senior Day) Nov. 4, Penn State University @ 2 p.m.: Women’s ice hockey vs. Penn State Nov. 4, Penn State University @ 7:05 p.m.: Men’s ice hockey vs. Penn State Nov. 4-5, Cathedral Prep Events Center: Men’s water polo at CWPA Western Championships Nov. 7, Mercyhurst Athletic Center @ 7:05 p.m.: Volleyball vs. Gannon University

PAGE 16

LAKER LIVING

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

HURST TOON Student-drawn cartoon by Periwinkle