Nov. 8 Issue of The Merciad

Merciad THE

MERCYHURST UNIVERSIT Y

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

W E D N E S DAY, N OV E M B E R 8 , 2 017

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VOL. 91 NO. 7

‘Guys and Dolls’ a hit

PAGE 11

Online poll results What do you think of the water bottle station?

2: New 24/7 lounge opens in the Center for Academic Engagement 9: Fashion Merchandising class assists local business 15: MU men’s hockey splits the weekend against Penn State Photo by Mark Santillano

I think it is neat! (35%) We definitely need more! (32%) What station? (20%) I haven’t seen it yet. (13%)

This week’s

POLL

Did you get your flu shot yet?

merciad.mercyhurst.edu

NEWS

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Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Amber Matha photo

The new 24/7 lounge opened Monday in the Center for Academic Engagement. Cafe Diem, which is in the CAE Atrium, will now be open longer hours to accommodate the lounge.

24/7 lounge now in the CAE

By Marina Boyle Staff writer

As of Monday, the lobby and atrium area of the Center for Academic Engagement (CAE) has been converted into a 24/7 study lounge for all students. A kickoff party with light refreshments took place to celebrate what the new study area will have to offer for the Mercyhurst community.

The new facility offers stu-

dents a safe and warm place to study overnight after conventional study areas such as the library are closed. The prior 24/7 lounge was located in the lower level of the library, and is currently being renovated into the new Cyber Security Lab. For this reason, the atrium area of the CAE is the location for the study facility.

As the opening of a 24/7 study area was the Senior Class Gift of 2008, alumni were consulted and

their efforts were acknowledged in order to maintain the basis of their idea. Several Senior Class Gifts were impacted this year by structural renovations on campus, but huge effort has gone into maintaining their original essence in the adjustments.

Lindsay Frank, director of Alumni Engagement, says that she is “glad to see that the CAE Atrium area will now be the 24/7 lounge and that all students will

be welcome there at any time.”

John Patterson, director of Protective Services, has been overseeing the process of ensuring that students can safely be in that location overnight.

“The OneCard system will allow any registered Mercyhurst student to access this lounge area through the front door,” he said.

“A magnetic lock will activate at 10 p.m., which can be opened only by a student card, and all upper areas

of the building will be restricted to Intelligence students only.”

More cameras have also been added by Police and Safety to ensure peace of mind for everyone using the facility at night.

Many students will also be happy to know that the Café Diem is extending its hours to accommodate for late night studying. Now that the space is up and running, it is hoped that more students will begin to take advantage of it.

From street art to street wear

By Kristian Biega

Staff writer

Local screenprint artist Roman Glass, owner of No Dress Code Studios, is bringing new meaning to “street art” with his original line of t-shirts taken straight from the streets of Erie.

Glass’ project was funded and managed by Kris Wheaton and a team of students through Mercyhurst’s Quickstarter Project.

Glass came to find Wheaton much like all other entrepreneurs — through recommendations and word of mouth about the success of Quickstarter. Glass is already well established in the Erie area for his screenprinting and art, but he saw this as an opportunity to expand his customer and retail base beyond Erie with an innovative new style.

Glass and the No Dress Code (NDC) team travel around the city in Erie screen printing T-shirts and button-up dress shirts using manhole covers, grates, and other urban textures around downtown.

“NDC Street Wear is all about

my love for art and T-shirts and going out of the studio and creating fashion from the grit of the streets, literally,” Glass said on the Quickstarter site. “Turning shirts into something that tells the story of the streets.”

There are other artists attempting to do similar screenprinting techniques, but Glass’ is something completely unique. Glass will print on the street and then overlay other colors and textures back in the studio, making the shirt a one-of-a-kind creation.

“I intend to go beyond what has been done to date and explore the challenges of color, style and composition as simply and directly as I can,” Glass said on the site.

Thanks to the help of the Quickstarter team, managed by graduate Intelligence Studies major Christina Eusanio, Glass’ project is already fully funded with still about two weeks left in the campaign to continue to raise funds.

“It has been a lot of fun working on the project, and working with Roman has been great,” said Eusanio. “He is really passionate

about what he does and already has that reputation as a hipster and innovator.”

What makes this team at Quickstarter so successful and unique is the use of an entirely student-run project team. This team utilizes students from Mercyhurst, Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and surrounding colleges who are proficient in their respective areas of study. By bringing together diverse teams, the projects come together in a new, efficient and creative way.

As leader, Eusanio first had to figure out how to market Glass’ product to a retail market outside of just Erie. Since the project was fully funded, she observed that the goal of expansion remained stagnant. The team set to work on techniques that would help “Our goal was to expand his customer base to a wider national audience, so we started with a comparison analysis,” said Eusanio. “We looked into successful T-shirt campaigns on Kickstarter in the past and tried to find why they were successful. We used that

as a jumping off point to learn what Roman wanted to do.”

Through advanced Google Searching techniques, social media hits and local foot traffic, they conducted analyses on what cities would be considered “hipster friendly” and ranked them on a 1-3 scale for fit of the product and success in projected popularity.

“I have never done anything like this, but I really enjoyed this change of pace,” said Eusanio. “It just shows how you can apply the skills you learn in the Intel program into really any market situation.”

Working with Wheaton and the Quickstarter program as a university student allows for real-world experience and connections with local entrepreneurs, while also receiving payment.

“This is a prime example of experiential learning, working with real clients on real problems,” said Wheaton. “These entrepreneurs are putting their dreams in your hands, so it is pretty serious work.”

Wheaton has been running the

Quickstarter project at Mercyhurst for nearly four years. It is designed to connect skilled college students to local creators who are in need of those specific skills. They attempt to increase the chance of a product’s success by using crowdfunding campaigns.

“I want to hire students to get them on board with projects, but I also want them involved with creating the project,” said Wheaton.

“After all the years I have been doing this, I’ve only had a few projects originate with Mercyhurst. If you have an idea or project and don’t know where to take it or how to make it real, we are here to help you innovate.”

All of Quickstarter’s services are free to aspiring entrepreneurs. As a subset of the Ignite Erie initiative, Quickstarter receives funding and support from the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority.

All of Glass’ shirts can still be ordered from Kickstarter to fund his project. Each pledge level receives a T-shirt, button-up shirt or thank you from Glass and No Dress Code Studios.

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

NEWS

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Taking a stand with SafeNet

By Claire Eichner Staff writer

On average, approximately 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States. Over the course of one year, this adds up to more than 10 million men and women.

With these statistics being at an incredibly high percentage for not only the entire U.S., but right here in Erie as well, students and faculty at Mercyhurst are working together with an organization called SafeNet to take a stand.

According to the organization’s website, “SafeNet is a non-profit organization, providing free confidential services including counseling, legal advocacy, education and shelter victims of domestic violence.” It is Erie’s only accredited domestic violence agency.

Last year, the Forensics Science club on campus began working hand in hand with the organization. Kathi Staaf, the club’s adviser and administrative assistant of the Applied Forensics Science department, has played a major role in getting the partnership started.

“I asked the club to look for a service organization that we could make a connection with and provide continuing assistance to in the future,” said Staaf. “Suggestions were brought up at the club meet-

Contributed photo

Mercyhurst’s Forensic Science Club teamed up with SafeNet at the Boo Run/Walk 5K at Presque Isle.

ing, and we decided on SafeNet.” After the partnership began last year, it was a success, and the club’s volunteering has continued into the current school year with no end in sight.

“We wanted to assist an organization that was related to forensics

in some way and in the course of our work in the forensics field, we regularly see victims of domestic violence. So SafeNet seemed like the fit for us.” Staaf said.

SafeNet puts on multiple fundraisers throughout the year, and Mercyhurst provides the volun-

teers to help make them possible.

Some of the events include the Scrabble Tournament, the Boo Run/Walk 5K at Presque Isle and the most recent event, the Halloween Haunt Spook-tacular Party for kids.

Chianne Kline, a sophomore

Sports Medicine major, has participated in many events as a member of the Forensics club. Most recently, she participated in the Boo Run/Walk.

“Volunteering with SafeNet is a truly rewarding experience, and being able to participate in the 5K was just one of the great events,” said Kline. “It spread awareness about SafeNet and what it does, which is incredibly important, because domestic violence is truly a major issue that needs to be addressed.”

Volunteering not only impacts the organizations, but it affects the students as well.

“Volunteering with this great program has given me a new appreciation for helping others, and I look forward to continuing volunteering at many events in the future,” Kline said.

The club members aim to continue to build their relationship with SafeNet, and they hope to participate in more of their events, not just the fundraising efforts.

“They offer a domestic violence prevention seminar and fun events for SafeNet clients and the Erie community all throughout the year,” said Staaf. “All of the activities present opportunities to connect with Erie residents and provide help to a worthy organization.”

Asset club gets $100K to manage, invest

By Daniel Leonard Staff writer

Mercyhurst University’s Endowment Board recently authorized The Laker Asset Management club to manage and invest $100,000 of the school’s $35 million endowment fund.

“It will be a great experience for the students to actually go invest it after doing the research on what to invest with and consider it on a moral basis,” said David Myron, vice president of Finance and Administration.

Founded in the fall of 2016, the club’s focus is to “create an intellectually creative environment for a hands-on experience of financial markets, and maximize networking opportunities with professionals working in the field,” said club co-founder Grant Coultrup, a senior Accounting and Business Management double major.

The club consists of an investment board, made up of the four club officers and a marketing president, and about 20 analysts. The analysts make up

research teams that gather a variety of data, develop a report on whether a position would be a good buy and present it to the investment board as a potential investment.

“We strongly believe fundamentals are the long-term drivers of growth. With our thematic investment strategy, we will analyze economic, technological, political, environmental and social (factors) that fundamentally impact the economic landscape,” said Adrian Larsen, a sophomore who has a triple major in Internal

Business, Business Economics and Finance.

All investments that are made are routed through a broker that has ties to Mercyhurst.

“Every trade ultimately goes through a broker that is connected to Mercyhurst,” said Coultrup.

“Additionally, our treasurer will keep track of all the transactions to ensure there are no discrepancies.”

Bernardo Ramirez, a graduate student and a Finance and Business Competitive Intelligence double major, is president and

co-founder of the club.

“We are working towards creating what we feel is our competitive advantage, social capital,” said Ramirez. “Social capital in this sense means maintaining a network of highly ambitious, highly skilled members that will work as a unit to achieve our goals.

“Our social capital will last far beyond our graduation dates. As our numbers grow, our network will extend across a variety of fields and will create new opportunities for our current and former members,” he said.

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

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

NEWS

PAGE 4

Merciad IN A MINUTE Cafe accepts dining dollars Starting this week, Cafe Diem will be switching to a computer system. This allows for dining dollars to be accepted.

This opens up another eating place on campus to students who do not primarily use cash.

Global Summit sessions free The Jefferson Educational Society’s Global Summit continues this week and next week with several speakers at Mercyhurst.

Tickets to each talk are free to students with ID. Students must call 814-459-8000 or go to jeserie.org.

The Mercyhurst talks will be held in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center at 7:30 p.m.

On the schedule: • Nov. 9: “Understanding Trump: Washington Insiders on the 45th President,” a media panel discussion moderated by C-SPAN’s Steve Scully featuring White House journalists Tara Palmeri, Philip Rucker and Byron York.

• Nov. 10: Historian Douglas Brinkley, an author and political analyst, who will offer insights on the American presidency.

• Nov. 13: “The End of One Era, The Start of Another: GermanAmerican Relations in the Age of Trump” with Jackson Janes, an expert on GermanAmerican relations.

• Nov. 17: Lt. Gen. James Dubik on “The Pre-Something Period: America’s Leadership Challenge” with Lt. Gen. James Dubik, a global security expert.

Blood drive set This Wednesday, the Red Cross will be hosting a blood drive.

The drive will be in the Student Union from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Mental illnesses and how they are treated

By Caitlyn Lear

News editor

On Nov. 2, Kyle Scully, Ph.D., returned to the university to discuss mental illness and the pharmacology that goes along with it.

His presentation was titled “Past, Present, and Future of Psychopharmacology.”

Scully graduated from then-Mercyhurst College in 2008 with a B.S. degree in Applied Forensic Science with a concentration in Chemistry and Toxicology. He now works at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM).

He first addressed the students about his studies and how it is OK to change majors and continue to learn new things.

“Never close your eyes to an opportunity. Take chances and try new things,” said Scully. “If you stop growing, you are dying. If you are not learning, you are stagnating. Never be satisfied. Keep pushing for more.”

He then got to the heart of his discussion which was talking about the evolution of mental illness, the stigmas that follow and how they were/are treated. He discussed how many people will hide the fact that they have an illness or not seek treatment due to the negative nature associated with mental illness.

“About 20 percent of people will be diagnosed with mental illness. That is only those who are willing to seek help and seek the diagnosis,” said Scully. “Five percent of the general population suffers so badly and cannot be managed, that it is actually a disability.”

In the past, mental illness was thought of as punishment, such as for deviating away from religion, demonic possession or sorcery.

“Diversity wasn’t a thing as far as behavior went. Everyone had to follow the same rules. Anything outside of that was considered demonic possession or outside of being human,” Scully said.

There was a negative stigma.

Families hid the ones with illness away. Some were left in the streets or disowned and left to their own devices.

“As time moved on, we turned to asylums, some which turned to prisons for the mentally ill,” said Scully. “The goal of treatment was to calm them down and make them manageable. Get them out of society and get them so they were not a bother for those who worked at the asylums.”

Most medications from the beginning, like herbs and poppies, were used to calm down patients or sedate them.

“There is something to this natural product where we grind up an herb and give it to them, we just did not know it then,” Scully

Caitlyn Lear photo

Kyle Scully, Ph.D., discussed mental illnesses and their treatments, as well as his own research into epilepsy medication, during a presentation Nov. 2. Scully received his B.S. from Mercyhurst in 2008.

said.

Scully discussed different techniques, like drilling holes in people’s heads (trephining), that ancient, and some current, people believed would help in the curing of mental illness.

“We looked at all kinds of crazy things to make people fit the norm,” said Scully. “And these old thoughts and old traditions are not gone. They still exist in some parts of the world.”

Doctors and caretakers then moved to the idea that the people needed to be taken care of and not just put away to manage for the rest of their lives. Most experimentation on cures were done in asylums, and there were no ethical code at the time.

“Everything from a slapping machine, where a patient was left to be slapped by leather straps until they were normal,” said Scully.

“It was even the advent of electric shock.”

Discoveries were made, but the process was brutal and unethical.

Humans were treated more like lab rats than actual human beings.

“Then we got one step further than trephining. We started drilling holes and cutting connections.

Scrambling brains and seeing what happens,” Scully said.

At this point, the root of the problem was still not clear.

“You have to implicate the brain,” Scully said.

Neurotransmitters are responsible for signaling in the brain, each with their own role. After the discovery of neurotransmitters, the focus of mental illness became what can be fixed in the brain to help a patient.

“This is where we learned, may-

be they are more linked than we thought,” said Scully. “It is not just one excites and one inhibits.”

All this research was happening decades at a time, so the research was slow and tedious.

The realization came to be that these were not all that separate.

Trying to diagnose a problem and an illness was convoluted.

“The diagnostic criteria overlaps so heavily, and we don’t know why,” Scully said.

The brain consists of circuits, so it is regions of the brain and not just one pathway that causes a mental illness. At this point, medicine does not have drugs that target regions of the brain.

By accident, drugs were found that could treat certain things.

The first discovery in the 1950s accidentally came out of the dye industry. At the time pharmacologists did not know how or why it worked, but they did not care because it was working.

“As science progressed, and we discovered receptors and enzymes and how the body works, we were able to come up with strategies to target the illness or disease,” said Scully. “We are trying to fix something we think is wrong.”

He continued the discussion talking about how in most cases a normal medication only works for one or two injuries or diseases. But when it comes to mental illness, one drug could have many uses, and not everyone is going to respond in the same way to the medication.

There are many manifestations of the same functions. Thinking that serotonin or dopamine is going to fix something is a false truth. It could be one of those in a certain brain region, but not

necessarily just serotonin itself.

“We don’t know enough about pathophysiology to treat the disease. We are treating the symptoms. We are just putting a finger in the dam,” Scully said.

Psychiatric drugs can be tricky and also harmful. Scully quoted David Anderson, Ph.D., from his Ted Talk about how adverse effects of drugs can be like dumping oil on an engine instead of in the engine.

“Some will get where it needs to go and fix the engine, but the rest is just out there wreaking havoc,” said Scully. “We can not fix the problem without creating nine others.”

Scully discussed his research, in which he uses natural products in grapes.

“Nature is so much more creative than any lab scientist dreams of being in terms of chemical structure. It is an untapped resource that we need to tap,” he said.

After months of theoretically synthesizing molecules on a computer, and then recreating that in a lab, his research started showing success.

“My research has finally resulted in the filing of a patent with the patent office for novel anticonvulsant that I designed for my dissertation,” Scully said.

Lastly, he talked about where this subject needs to go into the future.

“We need to fill in the gaps and build that bridge so we can treat our patients effectively without causing adverse effects,” said Scully. “There needs to be a culture shift.”

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

NEWS

Trump’s ratings down

By Anthony Miller Staff writer

The Mercyhurst Center for Applied Politics (MCAP) found in a recent poll that President Donald Trump’s approval rating is underwater in Erie County.

According to the poll, 55 percent of voters disapprove of the job he’s doing, and 60 percent have an unfavorable opinion of him. Only 32 percent of voters approve of the job Trump is doing, down from 41 percent in February of this year.

Joseph Morris, the director of MCAP, explains that this number has great significance.

“The reason this is significant is because Erie County is a microcosm of the many communities throughout the Midwest that allowed Trump to win the presidency, and if he’s doing poorly in Erie, there’s a case to be made that he’s doing poorly in those other counties,” Morris said.

Morris said that the plan of the MCAP in the future is to track Trump’s approval rating over the next few years.

“Our goal over the next three years is to continue to document the evolution of public opinion as it pertains to Trump and his favorite policies,” Morris said.

While the MCAP does have future plans, it has no plans to do polling for Erie’s local elections this year. Morris said he did consider doing polling for the Erie County executive race and the Erie mayoral race, but he feared the results would’ve come too close

PAGE 5

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

This weekend’s campus events

Wikimedia Commons photo

A recent poll by the Mercyhurst Center for Applied Politics shows that President Donald Trump’s ratings are down since being elected.

to Election Day and would have impacted people’s thinking of the election.

“I was sure that releasing a poll on the eve of the election wouldn’t have benefited the community in any way,” Morris said.

Over the course of the past year, polling has come under fire after the results of the 2016 presidential election seemed to fly in the face of polling. Joseph Morris says that people should be concerned about polling, but not because of the 2016 election.

“A close look at the polls finds that in places like Pennsylvania, the race was within the margin of error,” said Morris. “Unfortunately,

people don’t care about the margin of error. They tend to take poll results to show the exact way the population is feeling, but that’s not the way it works.”

Morris believes that people should be concerned about the current evolution of polling.

“The reason people should be concerned about polls is that our methodology is currently evolving rapidly,” said Morris. “It used to be that you wouldn’t accept the validity of a poll with a response rate of less than 50 percent, but now we drop that response rate down to the low double digits, which means there’s a whole lot of people who aren’t responding.”

This Friday, MAC and SAC will host an Indian-themed Vibe event. There will be food, games, music and more to immerse students in the Indian culture.

MU health insurance an option

By Marina Boyle Staff writer

Health insurance is a very important facet of college life that is often overlooked. In terms of personal care, Mercyhurst puts a lot of time into protecting students’ overall well being. One aspect of this is the Student Health Insurance Plan offered to all Mercyhurst students.

Provided in connection with Highmark Health Insurance, the 2017 plan covers broad stroke health care and emergency aid. At $942 per semester, it is an easy and comprehensive choice that is billed for directly along with tuition.

John Patterson, director of Protective Services, helps to coordinate the plan for all students.

“The cost of healthcare continues to skyrocket. A lot of the medical profession does not distinguish based on where you are from,” said Patterson. “This is why it’s so important for Mercyhurst students to be well looked after once their needs are identified.”

For international students in particular, health insurance can sometimes be an area of confusion. Plans that proved more than adequate in their home country may not translate well into the American healthcare system, and

they may be left with far less coverage than they expected. For this reason, all students are encouraged to seriously consider the Mercyhurst Student Health Insurance Plan over comparable alternatives from other places.

It is of huge importance that those choosing this option register for their plan with Hubbard Bert to enact it. The plan must then be restarted each calendar year. For international students in particular, this might involve adding your Social Security number to your account if you used an alternative number when first registering.

In recent years, President Michael T. Victor has made health insurance one of his priorities in campus improvements. The previous health insurance system comprised of plans at different levels to allow extra coverage to students more likely to get injured on campus, such a student athletes. Now there is one comprehensive plan for all students to reduce confusion. This encompasses U.S. Department of State requirements and is still in line with NCAA guidelines.

However, it is still very important that all students who choose the Mercyhurst University plan know the details and take care to review what is covered and what

is not. For example, the total maximum out-of-pocket limit for an individual is $7,150 and coverage runs from August to July on a contract year system.

If students attend the Campus Health Center and need to be referred to another medical facility, they can be treated at Millcreek Community Hospital, Saint Vincent Hospital or UPMC Hamot.

Each of these locations will always accept Mercyhurst insurance.

But again, there are fine details to be understood. There are often $20 copayments, and dental care and eye care are not included in the plan.

One positive aspect of this plan is that even with soaring health insurance costs, Mercyhurst does try to keep increases in price slow and gradual. Last year, 130 new students joined this plan, and a larger group decreases the cost for everyone. With the number of international students on at Mercyhurst tripling within the past 10 years, it is an advantage to everyone when students choose the Mercyhurst care.

Anyone confused about their coverage should reach out to staff members such as Patterson or their international enrollment counselor, or find exact coverage details on the school website.

To honor veterans, MAC and SAC will be hosting an event to make students aware about veteran suicide. Students can also sign a banner that will go to the local Veterans Affairs center.

MERCYHURST CAMPUS

CRIME LOG Oct. 28: Criminal mischief in Lot 22.

Nov. 1: Drunkenness at 3829 Briggs Ave. Nov. 1: Trespassing on Briggs Avenue.

Nov. 1: Unauthorized use of a vehicle, Briggs Avenue.

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, Recently my apartment has been getting very messy, specifically in the kitchen area. I understand that my roommates are busy people, but they never clean their dishes! They just sit in the sink for days until I clean them, and I’m getting tired of having to clean up their mess.

It gets so disgusting. How can I make them start cleaning their dishes?

Sincerely, Cinderella

Dear Cinderella, Sounds like you need to sit your roommates down for a little chat. You have to let them know that they need to start cleaning their dishes — there’s no way around it. They are adults and should be able to clean up after themselves. You should not have to do it.

It’s understandable if they’re super busy one day and don’t have time to clean, but they shouldn’t have to sit in the sink for days. That’s not very healthy and probably attracts a lot of flies.

Just politely remind them that their dishes are sitting in the sink growing mold and you’re worried about them piling up.

Do you have a notepad on the fridge or a dry erase board somewhere near the kitchen? It may be helpful to write a little reminder on there for everyone (even yourself) to clean their dishes.

Sincerely,

Mia

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Sustainability fund bolsters initiatives

By Marina Boyle Staff writer

The Mercyhurst University Sustainability Fund is a financial source that is used to advance the university’s commitment to environmental sustainability. It can be used to fund any project that will improve campus and its involvement in global affairs.

The fund provides investment to ecologically focused proposals such as carbon neutrality, alternative energy and environmental research.

This generous allocation of money is an underused advantage that has great potential. Every member of the Erie campus community — including students, faculty, administrators and staff — can initiate a project and submit proposals for recommendation. The process is as simple as filling out a proposal form that describes the project in full.

Individuals with an idea that is less focused can meet with Sarah Bennett, lecturer of Biology and Sustainability Officer, for assistance with the idea.

Bennett will help narrow the focus by discussing practicalities such as location, maintenance, budget and the proposed timeline.

Projects that have been funded so far include the purchase of wind power, the green roof on

the Zurn Hall Ceramics lab, recycling bins across campus and the solar-powered emergency blue lights.

The recently purchased carbon REC’s and carbon offsets increase the global responsibility of the Erie campus, and 40 percent of their total cost came from the Sustainability Fund.

There is a huge scope for the implementation of other ideas as the fund can provide aid ranging anywhere from $1,000 up to $25,000.

The allocation of money is overseen by a Sustainability Fund Review Board, consisting of a coordinator, faculty and staff, an administrator and student representatives.

The fund receives its money from a $5 donation per student per semester, taken directly from tuition.

While this may seem like an insignificant sum, the increasing student body at Mercyhurst allows the fund to garner larger sums of money each semester and provide significant aid to those with viable project ideas.

Effective use of this service, which is paid for by each student, can continue to improve campus.

In order to make submitting a proposal even easier, guidance is available to those who need help refining their idea. Each student who proposes a plan is required

to have a project supervisor, who can be any faculty or staff member. The proposal is then evaluated based on criteria such as innovation, feasibility, schedule and consistency with the strategic vision and the mission of Mercyhurst as an institution.

The goal of the fund is to advance the university’s commitment to global sustainability with regard to the environment, education, student recruitment and public relations. All project initiators should bear this in mind.

“The Sustainability Fund allows Mercyhurst to push sustainable initiatives forward, leading to a healthier and more environmentally friendly campus, which is better for everyone. Additionally, it is a resource that allows students to take ownership of campus projects and an opportunity to leave their mark on the campus that will last for many years after they graduate,” Bennett said.

Other institutions with similar ‘Green Funds’ have implemented alternative energy usage on campus, sustainability research and development, energy efficient vehicles, recycling initiatives and energy efficient lighting. The fund at Mercyhurst is an asset to the school and the global environment and it is hoped that more people will take advantage of it in the future.

High-tech prizes part of Mercy fundraiser

By Elizabeth Shewan

Staff writer

The Erie House of Mercy will be hosting a Techno Bingo fundraiser on Nov. 11 at 7 p.m. at the Harborcreek Social Hall.

The Erie House of Mercy is a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy, modeled after Sister Catherine McAuley’s original House of Mercy in Dublin, Ireland. It is a result of the Action Plan of the Institute of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas.

According to the House of Mercy website, the action plan called for 31 Houses to be created and, in April 2002, that vision came true in Erie. The Erie House of Mercy was the first one opened in the United States.

“The House of Mercy neighborhood outreach mission is to provide activities and advocacy for an economically and ethnically diverse east Erie neighborhood,” said Michele Schroeck, a Sister of

Mercy. “We serve about 100 youth and their families, many of whom are recent immigrants from Bhutan, Nepal, Iraq and several African countries who live in scattered public housing.”

The Erie House of Mercy provides activities for both youth and adults. Homework help is offered, as well as activities incorporating elements intended to boost self esteem and resolve conflicts.

There are also opportunities for arts and crafts, environmental education and career development.

Adult activities strive to provide individuals with vocational skills by pairing with local agencies and organizations.

Mercyhurst students have been volunteering throughout the semester as part of the Beyond the Gates course or work study and some students will be volunteering at the event.

“There are so many purse bingos in the area, so the House of Mercy decided to do a Techno

Bingo where all the prizes are electronics,” Schroeck said.

Proceeds from the event will support the House of Mercy and enable it to continue hosting its youth and adult activities and training. It will also provide for a small “technology library,” which will allow families to sign out equipment.

The event will consist of 16 games with nine cards per game.

Exciting prizes include TVs, an iPad and Apple Watch, Beats headphones, a laptop, virtual reality glasses and many more. There will also be a gift auction, 50/50 raffle and door prizes.

The event will cost $25 per person, and tickets may be purchased at Eventbrite.com. It will take place at the Harborcreek Social Hall, 7275 Buffalo Road, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. and games beginning at 7 p.m. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Attendees must be at least 21 years of age.

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, November 8, 2017

FEATURES

PAGE 7

NE anatomy lab gets upgrade

By Caitlyn Lear

News editor

The anatomy students at Mercyhurst North East recently received innovative technology to help them study the human body.

The new equipment came all thanks to a Perkins grant.

MNE was given six computers with zSpace virtual reality on them. This technology allows students and instructors to pick up, move and examine different layers of the body. There is even a part of the software that helps the students properly pronounce terms.

“The students are able to manipulate the body; rotate it, bring the structures close up and turn on/off certain body system structures,” said Kari Dundore-Shrout, director of the Biology department at MNE. “In addition, they can have the body move and in real time see how the bones, muscles and joints interact with each other.”

The 3D representations give a better and deeper understanding of how the body is actually put together.

“Though the textbook continues to give students the best de-

Contributed photo

Steph Cooley and Amy Hornaman play with the 3D images using goggles with the new zSpace technology.

scriptive help with human physiology, this app allows the students to see the detail of the human body and its complicated organ or structures in a 3D nature that a flat 2D picture in a textbook can-

not,” Dundore-Shrout said.

Dundore-Shrout explains that even though only six computers were received, it is better than every person having the software on their phones or tablets.

“These computer screens are fairly large, and because we have six units (one for each lab station in our classroom),” said Dundore-Shrout. “Students are able to visualize the structures and or-

gans on a large scale that they may not have been able to see in a 3D app on their phone or tablet.”

Videos that are associated with each part of the body provide hordes of information.

“They can watch an animation on arm flexion while watching how the bicep muscle contracts pulling on the arm bones. While the video is running, the students can rotate the arm around, watching the movement from multiple angles,” said Dundore-Shrout.

“In addition, students can click on certain body structures or organs and see clinically relevant features of the organ or structure and diseases associated with that organ or structure.”

This new technology is not only good learning tool for teaching, but it also sets the university apart.

“We hope that allowing our students to use this amazing new technology will set us aside from other health professional schools because it brings anatomy to life for these students,” said Dundore-Shrout. “Not many other programs have this new technology, so it gives our students an advantage over other universities.”

FEATURES

PAGE 8

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

NEW AT HURST Student concerns

regarding Ryan Hall

By Daniel Leonard

Staff writer

Rebecca Dunphy photo

Robert Gibson joined the Mercyhurst community this semester as adjunct faculty for the Communication department.

Robert Gibson This semester, Mercyhurst University welcomed Robert Gibson, adjunct faculty for the Communication department. He is currently teaching Digital Video Production I. Gibson brings 20 years of experience in the video production field to the program, allowing him to share his firsthand experiences with students.

After receiving a degree from Edinboro University in Speech and Communication Studies with an emphasis in media, Gibson was employed in Erie at the ABC affiliate WJET-TV and the NBC affiliate WICU-TV, before joining WTAE-TV in Pittsburgh. At the time of his employment, the Pittsburgh station was ranked 19th largest in the country.

Years later, he returned to Erie as a writer and producer for WICU-TV News before attaining a position at GECAC, where he counseled students in the postsecondary education process. Cuts in federal funding for this program prompted him to pursue the creation of Gibson Media.

Gibson Media provides commercial production and media creation for local businesses to increase their online presence. The business also provides videography services for a variety of local events.

Gibson continues to operate the company today, giving him a modern understanding of the industry, which he shares with students.

“Many of the skills I bring to the classroom are also practiced in the business,” said Gibson. “Most of the equipment I have chosen for use in my business is also being used by Mercyhurst University, so students get the opportunity to use current equipment and current methods.”

He hopes to use his years of experience to help give students a modern understanding of the industry.

“The opportunity for students at Mercyhurst is awesome. Video production is a fast-moving technology-driven industry. Students get to use stateof-the-art video switchers, pro broadcast cameras and green screen technology. We even have fleet of cameras for field production,” Gibson said.

Gibson thoroughly enjoys having the opportunity to share his experiences during class.

“I really look forward to class days,” said Gibson. “The students are really good listeners. They are awesome kids and we have really positive interactions during class.”

- Rebecca Dunphy

Mercyhurst University is dedicated to completing the Ryan Hall

by Aug. 1, 2018, despite the complaints raised by students living on campus. The construction noise is an 8 a.m. alarm for many students and has brought up additional student concerns regarding issues such as on campus parking.

Michayla Piatek, junior Social Work major, commented on the progress made by the construction crew since the beginning of the semester. She described the piles of dirt that were present at the beginning of the semester as an eyesore. With the building beginning to form, however, the view has improved considerably.

“It is annoying to wake up to, but in the beginning it was a lot louder than it is now,” said Piatek. “(It’s) great to see the progress.”

Hope Lowry, senior Social Work major and a commuter, cited that her main concern with the construction is the “already limited parking on campus.” Several parking lots were lost once construction began. Road work on Briggs Avenue and Lewis Avenue has further complicated matters, creating an inconvenience when going to and from campus, especially as a commuter.

The roads closing have become almost a weekly occurrence and

students have said the closures are difficult to plan around, as no one is informed a head of time.

Some students have woken up to their entire apartments shaking, especially if they are closer to the construction.

Both Piatek and Lowry questioned the university’s choice to make the new housing open exclusively to sophomores, especially with the current housing shortage.

Megan McKenna, director of Residence Life, commented on some of the difficulties that were first encountered in the construction. Ryan Hall will sit lower than the original apartments.

“In the beginning of the year especially, it was digging down further into the ground where the initial six buildings were, pushing that out and removing that dirt,” McKenna said.

McKenna empathized with students, as she has personal experience living near construction. She admitted that “it is never pleasant,” but emphasized the need to focus on the fact that Mercyhurst has tried to communicate with the construction company about the start and end times of work and regulate it to minimize the community disturbance.

“The cool thing is that the students are a part of the process, although it doesn’t seem like it,” McKenna said.

“Handfuls of years from now, they come back and see a building that they saw being developed.”

Although students living through the noise of the construction will not be able to live in Ryan Hall, McKenna did mention that the there is a plan to slowly update upperclassmen housing options. New furniture is slowly being added for the short-term solution, and the long-term plan is to redevelop more of the upperclassmen housing, providing more options.

Part of the reason Ryan Hall will be limited to sophomores is the fact that different years will have different programs and levels of independence, as well as the original plans for the campus.

“For the most part, it is the way the campus was originally designed,” McKenna said.

As the floors and ceilings of Ryan Hall are developed and the days get colder, the construction crew will move the work inside to work on the interior and hopefully quiet down somewhat.

McKenna urged students to reach out to a member of the Residence Life staff “if students are experiencing some concerns with the level of noise or if anything seems out of the ordinary.”

If McKenna is unable to fix the problem, she will at the least explain why the issue is occurring and keep the students informed.

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

FEATURES

PAGE 9

Contributed photo

Students from the Fashion Merchandising department have the opportunity, through the Visual Merchandising class, to design a retail space for local business owner Emily George. Students will apply skills they learned in the classroom at George’s store, Pointe Foure Vintage Boutique on Peach Street.

Students help local business

By Caitlyn Lear

News editor

The students of the Fashion Merchandising department’s Visual Merchandising class will be designing a retail space for a local business owner, Emily George. George owns Pointe Foure Vintage Boutique at 2508 Peach St. On Thursday night, the students will go to the store and apply skills they learned in the classroom.

“The students will be divided into four groups where they will create fall-themed displays for Pointe Foure’s owner, Emily George,” said Camilo Rodriguez, freshman student event coordinator.

The students in the class include Annelise Baker, Ashley Ferrari, Brianna Harrison, Alexis Jonak, Nancy Jones, Allyse Kaliszewski, Genevieve Kress, Caitlyn Lechene, Yosel Yadik, Connor Northrup, Hannah Park, Mari Santangelo, Dechlyn Sheffer, Kathryn Summers, Abigail Winger and Caitlyn Padovano.

The students will also be hosting “Fall into Fashion” on Nov. 10 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. During this event, the public will be able to visit the store and vote on their favorite display. Anyone who comes to the store that

Contributed photo

The Pointe Foure Vintage Boutique, at 2508 Peach St. in Erie, will be the location of “Fall into Fashion,” which will be an opportunity for students to display their skills to the public.

night will be receive a coupon for 20 percent off their purchase for that night only.

The students are working with George and her shop because of success in the past.

“Ms. Magorien, our instruc-

tor, enjoyed her past experiences with Pointe Foure and decided to keep it up this year,” Rodriguez said.

George says that working with the students is great and that it is an important experience for

them. The experience of taking what they learn in class and applying it is something every student should have.

The students also agree that the hands-on experience is important and exciting.

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

“Having the opportunity to have our event at Pointe Foure is incredible because we are able to receive hands-on experience with visual merchandising, which is a dream career for some of the students,” said Rodriguez. “The hands-on experience the class is receiving is so important to our growth within our industry. It opens our eyes to the terms and techniques we’ve been learning and how they actually work.”

As an added bonus, the event supports Erie businesses.

“It also allows us students to support local businesses, which is a major focal point of our event. Many of our donations for the raffle prizes and the food are from locally owned businesses in the Erie community,” said Rodriguez. “We know how important these small businesses are to the growth of Erie and we in the Fashion department want to see them flourish.

All in all, the event is beneficial for everyone involved, especially the students, who gain real-world experience.

“Mercyhurst is a school that truly prepares students for their eventual careers because so many classes allow students to escape the classroom and start practicing the things they love to do,” Rodriguez said.

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Wednesday, November 8, 2017

’Tis the season for holiday spirit

By Megan Lay

Contributing writer

Next up in Mercyhurst Dance Department’s busy performance schedule is “‘Tis the Season: Featuring the Nutcracker Act II.” This is a one-of-a-kind treat for the whole family as well as for the Erie community.

The hour long performance will open with seasonal sacred dance.

“The Nutcracker: Act II” will conclude the evening, a classic favorite for any ballet or Christmas fan.

Mercyhurst will be teaming up with LECOM and LifeWorks Erie to produce the family favorite this season.

LECOM/LifeWorks Erie is a local organization that provides the elderly of Erie with opportunities for successful aging.

This community partnership also provides the Mercyhurst Dance department with several outreach performance opportunities throughout the year.

Lacey Gigliotti, a senior BFA Dance Major, has the unique opportunity of both dancing and choreographing in “’Tis the Season.”

Last year, Gigliotti was featured in the production as the Dew Drop Fairy, and this year she will be featured as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Gigliotti said, “My role this year is bigger than anything I’ve danced in the past three years at Mercyhurst. I have a greater responsibility to the cast, my partner and myself to lead with a positive attitude and perform to the best of my abilities.”

In addition to an intensive rehearsal schedule for her featured role, Gigliotti has also been tack-

dancers to not only entertain, but also to inspire.

This is yet another demonstration of how dedicated and multi-talented the dancers of Mercyhurst University can be.

Still balancing a full class schedule and planning for auditions in the spring Gigliotti said, “The most difficult part about choreographing and performing at the same time is finding a good balance of time and energy.

“It can be hard to switch gears from dancer to instructor in such a short amount of time, but the entire experience has been incredibly rewarding,” she said.

When asked her favorite part of dancing the “Grand Pas de Deux,” Gigliotti said that overall, “The music and choreography are everything you could hope for in a fairy tale romance.

More specifically, however, she said her favorite moment is toward the end of the dance, when the Cavalier extends his hand to the Sugar Plum Fairy, and she takes his hand.

“It’s a simple and elegant moment, but I feel such a strong sense of connection and commitment to my partner,” said Gigliotti. “The tiny details like that throughout the entire pas are where my partner and I are able to really buy into the characters Mark Santillano photo we are portraying and give the audience something magical to Elizabeth Hite, senior Dance major, rehearses as the Arabian soloist watch.” with others for “’Tis the Season: Featuring the Nutcracker Act II.” There are four chances to see all of the hard work and dedication ling the responsibility of choreo- for peace. Hope for strength of the dancers have put into this pergraphing for the first half of the spirit and for compassion. Hope formance: Dec. 1 at 4:30 p.m. and for Light to be restored.”

8 p.m., and Dec. 2 at 11 a.m. and performance.

This is a truly important and 3 p.m. All tickets are $5.

On what inspired her work she said, “The inspiration be- uplifting message during this time hind ‘Amazing Grace’ is really just in our world, further demonstrathope. Hope for a better world and ing the ability of the Mercyhurst

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 FILM REVIEW

‘Thor: Ragnarok’ truly entertaining

By David McDonald

Staff writer

The best apocalypse film of the weekend is not “Geostorm,” but rather “Thor: Ragnarok.”

Marvel’s recent installment will leave audiences extremely enthralled.

For those Marvel fans, such as myself, who were wondering where Thor and the Hulk were during “Captain America: Civil War,” they will not be disappointed.

This film thematically feels like a “Guardians of the Galaxy” film, which means it is both ac-

tion-packed and wildly hilarious.

By combining the perfect blend of action, comedy, characters and edginess, the filmmakers have discovered the formula for what a Marvel movie should be.

Much like “Iron Man,” the film that successfully spawned the Marvel cinematic universe, the movie makes its characters relatable.

Unlike other Marvel entries, the film’s antagonist is truly formidable.

So formidable, in fact, that it requires a team of heroes to even have a chance to beat her.

Hela, played by Cate Blanchett,

is not only well performed but truly terrifying as she succeeds in conquering Asgard and forcing Thor to save his homeland.

However, the banter between Thor and Loki is even more entertaining as their sibling rivalry is even more creative than in previous movies.

The film is not necessarily intellectual and stimulating, but no Marvel movie is.

Anyone who truly understands what a Marvel movie requires will find this one of its best installments.

Much like “Iron Man,” the movie that established the uni-

verse, its characters are relatable and its action keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Yet the comedy is the draw of this film.

I felt myself truly laughing out loud at its clever, witty nature.

Indeed, this film does not take itself seriously, which is its best trait.

It does not matter if you liked the last two “Thor” films or not.

If you are a Marvel fan and expect to be entertained, “Thor: Ragnarok” will not disappoint.



Auditions open for sketches

By Lauren Ganger Staff writer

Auditions for the Mercyhurst Theater department’s production of David Ives’ award-winning play “All in the Timing” will take place Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. in Taylor Little Theater.

This piece is comprised of six sketches, all of which will be directed by student directors. The one-act plays and directors are: •“Sure Thing,” directed by Owen Hitt, junior Information Technology major • “Words, Words, Words,” directed by Ashley Poletto, senior Theatre Design major.

• “The Universal Language,” directed by Rosie Pregler, junior Archaeology major • “Philip Glass Buys a Loaf of Bread,” directed by Sarah Krempasky senior Music major.

• “The Philadelphia,” directed

by Abigail Larimore, junior Theatre for Education-- major.

• “Variations on the Death of Trotsky,” directed by Kathryn Schmitt, senior Archaeology major.

Brett Johnson, Ph.D., who directs the Theater program and selected the play, writes that “‘All in the Timing’ is an anthology of sketches that established David Ives as a playwright with a singular gift for turning writerly self-consciousness into short-form intellectual slapstick.

The student directors are all junior and senior theater minors; they submitted proposals to be considered for this festival, including their preferences for which sketch they would like to direct.

While few of them have had any directing experience, they have been prepared for this role by attending seminars throughout the fall on a variety of topics.

Johnson writes that “‘All in the Timing’ is a great way for students to become involved with the theatre program” due to the relatively short nature of each sketch and the resultant relaxed time commitment expected of each actor.

Johnson says that this production will only require several twohour rehearsals a week as opposed to the more stringent schedule required for the Theater department’s full-length shows.

The audition process will involve cold readings from the plays.

In Johnson’s words, “students will have a few minutes to prepare a scene that’s provided on the evening of auditions.”

A student can only be cast in one play, and the audition is for consideration for all of the plays, not a specific one. Any Mercyhurst student can audition regardless of experience level.

Rehearsals will begin Jan.15 and the performances will take place Feb. 8 to11.

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

MUSICAL REVIEW

‘Guys and Dolls’ was a success

By Elizabeth Shewan

Staff writer

This past week, Nov. 2 through 5, huge crowds were drawn to see “Guys and Dolls,” a joint effort of the Mercyhurst Theater program, Dance department and Music department, in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.

Director, Brett Johnson, Ph.D., called the show “the perfect collaborative project for Theatre, Dance and Music because of the large cast, extensive use of dance and intricacies of Frank Loesser’s immortal score, which includes toe-tapping musical numbers like ‘Luck Be a Lady’ and ‘Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat.’”

The show “provides opportunities for students in each department to showcase their strengths while also learning from each other,” said Johnson.

“Guys and Dolls” is a lively musical comedy from the 1950s, in which Nathan Detroit (portrayed by junior Owen Hitt), desperate for money, bets Sky Masterson (sophomore Jacob Tretinik), the charismatic gambler, that Sky cannot take the uptight missionary Sarah Brown (graduate student Jillian Johannes) to Havana.

From there, hilarity, romantic drama, music and dancing ensue.

The show is heavily reliant on dance numbers, which were put over well by the dancers, under the direction of choreographer

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 Dance presents: “’Tis the Season” Dec. 1, 4:30, 8:30 p.m., Dec. 2, 11 a.m., 3 p.m., Performing Arts Center Jazz Ensemble Dec. 2, 8 p.m., Taylor Little Theatre

Mark Santillano photo

A few of the “dolls” from “Guys and Dolls” are led by Miss Adelaide, who was portrayed by senior Sarah Krempasky. They were performing a number at the Hot Box, one of the settings in the musical.

Mark Santillano, and the 15-member pit orchestra.

The show featured a cast and crew of more than 50 students, and in fact in many respects is the largest theatrical production Mercyhurst has recently done.

Lavish costumes and bright backdrops, sets and props masterfully conjured the aura of New York City in the 1950s, and crowds filled the Performing Arts Center — a change from the typ-

ical theater venue, which is the small Taylor Little Theater.

And yet, even with so many characters and so many things going on on stage, the show did not lose focus.

Characters stood out from each other, and the plot was easily distinguishable.

The story is a feel-good tale of love triumphing over all.

It’s an old idea, but the cast and crew gave it new life.

The show is bright and fun, and pleasing to the eyes and ears.

Music, setting and actors all combined to create a cheerful mood for this fun show.

The characters are likable and easy to root for, and the ending leaves audiences feeling good.

“Guys and Dolls” is a beloved show with a long history, and Mercyhurst may hold its head high, having done its part to uphold its legacy.

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

Wind ensemble set ‘Peter Pan’ flies into PAC to sleigh the stage

By Steve Martz

By Lauren Ganger

Staff writer

The Mercyhurst University Wind Ensemble will perform under the baton of Scott Meier, Ph.D., on Nov. 19 at 4 p.m. in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.

The afternoon’s program will feature Christmas music, starting off the Christmas season right before Thanksgiving break.

The program will feature “Fireside Christmas” by Sammy Nestico and “Russian Christmas Music” by Alfred Reed.

It will also feature “Emmanuel Variants” by Robert E. Foster and “Rhapsody on Christmas Carols” by Claude Smith.

They will also perform “And the Mountains Echoed Gloria” and “Stille Nacht” by Robert Longfield.

“Bells” by Claude T. Smith and “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson will also be performed during the program.

“Fireside Christmas” is a medley of Christmas favorites “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Frosty the Snowman” and “White Christmas.”

The next work on the program, “Russian Christmas Music,” provides contrast as it is an instrumental arrangement of a choral work.

Rachel Kinlan, a sophomore Music Education/clarinet major, said “‘Emmanuel Variants’

is a very exciting and fast-paced piece.”

In Kinlan’s words, “rhapsody on Christmas Carols” is another medley of Christmas songs, while “And the Mountains Echoed Gloria” “is a very full piece with multiple melodies playing at once.”

Kinlan describes “Stille Nacht” as “a beautiful work with a clarinet feature with some singing.”

“Bells” begins with fanfare from the trumpet section before the entire ensemble.

The program will end with the Christmas classic “Sleigh Ride.”

Tickets to this performance are $5 for the general public and $2 for Mercyhurst students, faculty and children aged 12 and under.

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

Staff writer

The Mercyhurst Institute for Arts and Culture is showing the encore version of “Peter Pan” in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.

The performance will be shown on Dec. 3 at 12:55 p.m. Doors will open at 12:30 p.m.

It will have a total run time of 2 hours and 30 minutes, which includes a 20-minute intermission.

The character of Peter Pan was originally used in 1902 by J.M. Barrie, a Scottish novelist and playwright.

Due to the buzz of the character, Barrie decided to write a play where Pan is front and center “Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up.” After the success of the play, Barrie pulled out parts of it and republished it in 1906 as “Peter

Pan in Kensington Gardens.”

Barrie then decided to expand what he had done so far and created the novel everyone knows and loves—“Peter Pan and Wendy,” which was published in 1911.

The childhood favorite was directed by Sally Cookson and co-production was with the Old Vic Theatre.

As many of you remember, the play begins with Wendy helping Peter Pan find his shadow. Peter then takes Wendy to Neverland, where she meets the Lost Boys, Tinker Bell and Captain Hook.

Peter Pan is portrayed by Paul Hilton, and Wendy is played by Madeleine Worrall.

Captain Hook is portrayed by Anna Francolini, and Tinker Bell is played by Saikat Ahamed.

As always, tickets are free for Mercyhurst students, $18 for adults, $15 for seniors and student and $10 for youth.

OPINION

PAGE 12

GOOD The Cafe Diem has extended its hours until midnight, Mondays through Thursdays. This is perfect for anyone craving a late-night study snack.

BAD The massive storm on Sunday night caused some flooding damage in the apartments.

GROSS There is a smear of fecal matter in the lower-level women’s bathroom in Audrey Hirt Academic Center. Yuck!

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 8, 2017

Commuter struggles with MU involvement time commitment, and not to

By Sam Peterson mention it could be flat-out

unsafe in the winter.

One must also remember that us commuters must go there and back during the day, subtracting When you’re living on campus, another 40 minutes away from getting involved isn’t that big of studying time. a deal.

With distance comes more You join a yoga club because apathy when it comes to getting you have nothing to do at 6 p.m. involved, and that could even and why would you want to go lead to an advantage for the back to a boring dorm? students who attend clubs Maybe if you’re inclined to regularly. be introverted this doesn’t quite This edge takes the form of happen, but anyone that craves people on campus having simply being around others will attend more connections. this club.

For instance, they might However, it’s not quite the know people in a class where same if you’re spending the a commuter would only see money to drive to and from strangers. campus, for a half-hour activity.

Forming bonds with other This is an issue that has students is harder when you can affected me personally because, not just walk down the hall to for example, I can’t make every find friends and talk to them. meeting for the Merciad because This can be counteracted, but my commute is roughly 20 must be met with a lot of effort minutes. to keep up with.

If we do the simple math, Here lies the center of my that’s 40 minutes of driving total. argument — that commuters That is enough to dissuade must expend much more effort me from going during busy exam than those living on campus for weeks because it’s a considerable the same advantages.

Staff writer

Admir Barucija, a freshman commuter, tends to agree, and said, “Commuting makes it harder to be involved on campus, but I don’t let that stop me. I try to be a part of any club or organization that interests me and attend any events I have time for.

“It can be inconvenient to drive to Mercyhurst multiple times on some days, but I always manage to have fun while I’m there, which makes everything worthwhile,” he said.

There’s a clear divide between those students who have to spend more than 40 minutes to arrive at campus, and those who can roll out of bed and be in Old Main.

Maybe there’s nothing that can be done to fix this clear discrepancy, but it might be OK. Those commuters who do get involved will savor the benefits a lot more when they commit their valuable time.

The extra willpower of those driving from far away will more than outweigh the advantages of not thinking about attending club meetings.

Advising Day delights eases some of the anxiety of

By Lauren Rogus scheduling.

Similarly, Faith Ehidiamhen, Staff writer a senior Political Science major with a concentration in International Studies, said, “Using the new system of self How did advising day go for service was so much easier than all you Lakers? the way we had to use the paper Many students think that Advising Day was so much easier scheduling. It is so much better.”

Katrina Amman-Ross, a Special than in prior years.

Education and Early Childhood Lea Moffatt, a junior Special Education double major, said, “I Education and early Childhood Education double major, said, “I did not like the paper way we did advising day last year.” feel as though the new Student Emma Werner, a freshman Planning tool is so much easier to navigate and use compared to Intelligence major, said, “It was the old system. As technology is really efficient and fast.”

It seems that many Lakers feel becoming more advanced, our that Advising Day was so much systems of doing things should better than past years. match that.”

Personally, I had a great Although I’m a freshman and advising day. Due to my minor this is my first time scheduling, and double major, I have a lot of I’ve heard the stories from courses I need to take. upperclassmen about how I thought it would be scheduling used to be done — by challenging to configure a filling out multiple copies of a schedule and getting it signed off schedule around my majors and minor. on.

I am so excited to get The old way seems very scheduled for next semester inefficient, and I’m glad we’ve moved toward an online version because self service has my next that streamlines the process and four years planned out.

I also can see if I have room in my schedule to study abroad — and I am happy to hear that I do have room, even with all my classes.

Advising Day, though I thought it would be hard, was truly easy and helpful because of Self Service and how user friendly it is.

I also felt it was so exciting to see the variety of courses I can take for my REACH. I am really looking forward to my religion and history courses; I think they will be very insightful.

Having a whole day off for Advising Day was super helpful because I have two advisers and meeting with them on top of having class would be a lot.

Plus, I really liked having Halloween off as it is my favorite holiday and I got to watch Halloween movies.

I hope we continue to have Halloween off as it was a day of rest and relaxation for me and many others.

I hope most Lakers had a similar experience as we journey into the spring semester. Happy scheduling!

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

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 8, 2017

OPINION

The United States and North Korea

By Admir Barucija Staff writer

Kim Jong Un and Donald Trump, leaders of North Korea and the United States, respectively, are setting the world on an immensely dangerous path through their utter rhetorical lack of restraint.

Due to their petty egotistical clashes, the fate of mankind may very well hang in the balance.

For years, North Korea has openly threatened the United States and other countries with a massive attack involving long-range missiles and nuclear weapons.

Thus far, North Korea’s extravagant statements have not resulted in the breakout of a colossal war, but the entire world needs to unite and be wary of North Korea’s capabilities and the whim of its unhinged leader.

North Korea has been making somewhat significant progress when it comes to its missiles, and the United States must take decisive action before North Korea can cause serious harm.

Trump has gone before the United Nations and threatened to “totally destroy” North Korea, which is a bold approach, but is simultaneously reckless and deepens the problem.

While the United States is significantly ahead of North Korea regarding capabilities (fighter planes, nuclear weapons,

“

North Korea is becoming powerful, and doing nothing is no longer an option. North Korea is not backing down, and the rest of the world should not, either.”

etc.), it is nonetheless an unwise idea to use war as the primary method to address the tensions with North Korea.

A much more prudent approach would be to conduct diplomacy with Kim Jong Un to get him to back down from his reign of terror.

The problem lies in the fact that Trump has intensified the harsh rhetoric between Washington and Pyongyang, which severely diminishes any chance of reaching a compromise and deepens the distrust between the two sides.

While direct diplomacy is not feasible with the current leadership, perhaps a third party serving as a mediator could bring the United States and North Korea to halt their long-standing hostile relations.

The United States can show North Korea that it means

business by taking actions such as firing nuclear weapons, but that would mean provoking conflict with nations such as China, which also is a global power.

One false move in the tensions between the United States and North Korea could very well lead to a global nuclear war.

Perhaps it is beneficial that both sides possess nuclear weapons because they can act as a deterrent.

Nuclear weapons, ironically, are helping keep the world safe because states that possess them are fully aware that nobody truly comes out of nuclear war as a winner.

Economic sanctions have proved to be highly ineffective in forcing North Korea to back down from the course of action that it is taking.

The remainder of the world needs to collectively take a firmer stand against North Korea and the Kim Jong Un regime to contain the threat.

North Korea is becoming powerful, and doing nothing is no longer an option.

North Korea is not backing down, and the rest of the world should not, either.

North Korea is biting off much more than it can chew and it could initiate a war, which Kim Jong Un knows North Korea is unable to win. North Korea’s government is in a massive bind, which it will be hard-pressed to get out of without taking the time to fully cooperate with other nations such as the United States.

PAGE 13

HURST STUDENTS

SPEAK UP We asked:

What is your favorite fall activity?

Hannah Bill, freshman Fashion Merchandising major: “Pumpkin carving is my favorite fall activity!”

Marianna Mathewson, senior Music Education major: “My favorite fall activity is watching the leaves change color.”

Zach Abodalo, senior Fashion Merchandising major: “My favorite fall activity is wearing fall clothes. My favorite is when I wear my 1981 boots with a quilted vest and a flannel.”

Katrina Amman-Ross, sophomore Special Education and Early Childhood Education major: “I love drinking apple cider and watching movies.”

Compiled by Lauren Rogus

Smaller sports deserve school spirit

fans to come show support, and that’s awesome and perfectly fine Cicchino as it is.

Staff writer But why stop there?

Why not be like me and attend as many games as you can?

Besides, wouldn’t you want Let’s face it: Do folks on your friends to come watch and this campus have a serious bias towards the sports that generate support you?

Allow me to pose a question the most revenue for the school and inquire as to why the highand are by far the most popular profile sports on campus are just on other campuses? that.

How exactly does a football What is it that drives your game bring 2,500 to Tullio, but a contest at the Ice Center — lest I average Laker to come out forget at the Division I level! — in droves for football, men’s basketball and men’s ice hockey, can’t even halve that?

Has anyone found this to be a but not for most other sports?

It cannot be the lack of significant issue? knowing when they’re going to It was just 19 months ago that occur — everything is in the yours truly put a much-needed Weekender. editorial in this very publication Do people not take note that sought to solve this very issue. of what they consider to be A necessary student section, unimportant emails since I thought, would not generate insane school spirit, but also drive everyone is so preoccupied with not missing a single trip to the people to attend other sporting Barrel, Cornerstone, Plymouth or events on campus. other popular watering hole every Look, I get that our highprofile sports obviously drive the single weekend?

By Marco

Hey, I’ll be doing the same when I turn 21 next July, but why not find time before the Night Owl bus leaves at 12:20 in the morning to have some fun on campus and support your fellow Lakers at the same time?

And let me give you some more music to face: I consider it absolutely appalling for these fans, who do everything they can to support football and men’s basketball and men’s ice hockey, to find a sliver of their time to do the same for their female counterparts.

What is it about women’s sports that keeps people, except close family and friends, away?

I get that I’m personally close with a lot of those athletes, but even if I were not, I would still go out and watch.

Think about it: not only does it give you something to do and allows you to get out of your room or apartment and get involved on campus, it also makes the athletes themselves feel good and have more drive to win that

you decided to give some of your precious time to them.

My suggestion, rather, imploration for all students out there: Whatever you do this weekend, please consider supporting one of the most consistently successful programs we’ve ever had (no offense to our 2011 national champs in men’s lacrosse or insanely-successful wrestlers) and fashion a rowdy student section on Nov. 10 at 3 p.m. when sixth-ranked Minnesota locks horns with our ice hockey women.

How is it, exactly, that a mediocre men’s program can fill the Ice Center to capacity and create a true home-ice advantage, but a multiple-times-moresuccessful women’s team cannot even get a decent student turnout for their contests?

We may have had the fifth highest attendance for women’s ice hockey last year, but we would have had a sizeable lead over everyone else if they came out in the same droves and generated

the same hype ad energy as they did at and about men’s games.

At most other schools, this would be unacceptable and extremely embarrassing and disappointing, but sadly (and maybe as a silver lining) we’re not alone.

How about we buck that trend and give the 14-time CHA champions and history-makers with 11 pairs of ballroom shoes in 13 years, the utmost respect they actually deserve?

And even with less successful women’s programs: Some of them may be your own classmates and you may not even know it.

Perhaps it’ll be you that can spark them to victory, and that could be the difference in making a PSAC or even national tournament.

Not to mention this newsflash: basketball and women’s lacrosse have both gone dancing within the last two years, and it was as recent as 2012 that our softball team finished over .500.

SPORTS

PAGE 14

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

MU XC: taking it in strides

By Daniel Leonard Staff writer

The season is now over for both of the Mercyhurst Cross Country teams.

The women’s team had strong senior leadership by Mary Jaskowak, Sydney Van Leeuwen, Kelly Bochnewetch and Robyn Hoover.

Opening the season at the Westminster Invitational, the women’s team finished second out of the 12 teams.

Sophomore Molly Kennedy placed first and Jaskowak placed eighth out of 138.

During the second race at the Notre Dame Catholic Championships, the women placed fourth out of 14 non-Division I teams.

In the Louisville Classic, the women’s team competed in the silver race and finished third out of 42 teams.

The team also finished first among 11 Division II teams, led

by Jaskowak, who finished seventh in the field out of the 334 individual competitors.

With more than 3,000 competing athletes, the Louisville Classic is the largest collegiate cross meet in the USA. At the 11th annual race against

Contributed photo

AT LEFT: From left, junior Chloe Tyillian, senior Mary Jaskowak and sophomore Molly Kennedy at the start of a race. AT RIGHT: Junior Danny Dmuchowski will be the only senior on the men’s team next year.

Gannon University, the women’s team won, claiming five of the first seven spots.

Kennedy won her second individual championship this year, followed closely by Jaskowak in second.

During their fifth race in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Championships

in California, Pa., the women finished ninth out of the 18 teams.

Finishing up their season, the women placed 12th out of the 22 teams in the NCAA Atlantic Regional Race.

Overall, the record for the season was 79 wins and 25 losses in the six races.

“The women’s team had a sol-

id season building towards what should be a very good season in 2018,” said Coach Mike Fraley.

“This a rebuilding year for the men’s team.”

He said the team lost the top five runners from last year’s team after finishing seventh place in the NCAA Atlantic Region race in 2016.

Starting off the season, the men finished seventh out of the 10 teams at the Westminster Invitational.

Freshman Dylan Bemiss led the team, finishing 29th in a field of 110 runners.

“Four of the men’s team’s finishers were underclassmen, making for a bright future,” said Fraley.

For the second race, the men competed at Notre Dame and finished 11th out of the 16 teams.

During the Louisville Classic, the men finished 39th out of the 48 competing teams.

Unfortunately, the men did lose their annual one-on-one race against Gannon University.

In the PSAC Championships, the men finished 15th out of the 16 teams.

Wrapping up the season at the NCAA Atlantic Regional race, the men finished 19th in the 19-team field.

The future looks solid for both teams, with “returning runners who made solid contributions to our race in 2017,” said Fraley.

“This group has been a pleasure to coach and has made solid achievements both academically and athletically,” said Fraley.

D2 poll ranks MU football falls to wrestling 15th Division II No. 1 IUP

By Lauren Abbott

Opinion Editor

Heading into the 2017-18 season, Mercyhurst wrestling was ranked 15th in the National Collegiate Athletic Association DII Coaches Association Top 25 preseason rankings.

The Lakers, who earned 27 points, had three nationally ranked individuals highlighted.

McKendree University topped the poll with 85 points.

Last year, the Lakers were ranked fourth in the preseason and finished 10th overall.

Having graduated seven seniors last year, the team is full of new wrestlers that are eager to get out on the mat.

“There are a lot of new faces that I think will make a name for themselves pretty quick,” said head coach Mike Wehler.

Wehler is in his 11th season as the coach for the wrestling team.

The expected lineup for the Lakers will feature one previous All-American, Dakota DesLauriers, two national qualifiers, Wes Phipps and Logan Grass, and two regional placers, Kevin Kinyua and Cole Gavin.

The remaining six spots are new to the starting line up.

“With a younger team, there’s potential,” said graduate assistant Kody Young. “There’s a lot of kids that are willing to come put

in the work ... and put in the extra work to get to that next level.”

Grass, a redshirt sophomore is one of the two returning team national qualifiers.

Grass was the youngest Laker to qualify for nationals last season and is ranked fourth in the 149 pound weight class this year.

“It’ll be nice to get back out on the mat and wrestle again for Mercyhurst,” said Grass. “I feel like we’re going to be a pretty talented team this year.”

Grass’ most anticipated meet is against rival Gannon University.

Gannon was ranked fifth overall in the poll with 63 points.

“It’s a cross-town rival and we ended up losing that one last year,” said Grass. “We’re looking for redemption this year.”

Second-year graduate student and a returning national qualifier Phipps is most excited for the team’s trip to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, AZ. Phipps is ranked eighth in the 197 pound weight class.

“We have a big road trip out to Arizona this year,” Phipps said. “I think it will be fun for all the guys to be out as a team together.”

The Nov. 17-18 tournament is followed by two home meets for the Lakers.

The season kicks off Nov. 12 in Cleveland at the Ohio Collegiate Open.

By Bernard Garwig

Sports Editor

The Mercyhurst Lakers football team dropped its second straight in a loss against the Indiana University of Pennsylvania Crimson Hawks.

The Nov. 4 Senior Day saw the No. 1 ranked Crimson Hawks (90) sweep Tullio Field and a scoreless second half for the Lakers.

The first quarter saw minimal offensive productivity from the Lakers and the Crimson Hawks.

Mercyhurst redshirt sophomore quarterback Doug Altavilla was intercepted on the Lakers’ inaugural drive after his Laker target’s hands failed to capture the ball at the Crimson Hawk’s 48-yard line.

Despite this, the Crimson Hawks only managed to advance little more than 20 yards from midfield in their subsequent drive.

Two penalties and a series of incompletions by Crimson Hawk quarterback Lenny Williams resulted in the Crimson Hawks punting.

Following drives by both teams resulted in no points on the board within the time frame.

The Lakers, however, extended their drive off a Williams interception into the second quarter.

Laker freshman kicker Mark Shafer put the Lakers on the board with a 35-yard field goal attempt.

Two drives later, the Crimson Hawks answered with a touchdown, swooping above the Lakers 7-3.

Not to be outdone, the Lakers responded the next drive with a touchdown of their own.

Altavilla connected with senior wide receiver Brad Novak on a 14-yard pass in the endzone.

After two Laker false starts, Shafer kicked the extra point to culminate the 77-yard drive The half would end with the Lakers up 10-7 after the Crimson Hawks missed their field goal attempt on their last drive.

Unfortunately, the second quarter would be the last time the Lakers added to their tally.

The Crimson Hawks opened up the second half, scoring a touchdown on their first drive of the third quarter with a strong series of rushes.

The Lakers’ offense then faced a fierce Crimson Hawk defense, which forced a safety after Altavilla fumbled and recovered in the end zone.

Not giving the Lakers a break, the Crimson Hawks slowly marched down the field in an 8:33, 60-yard drive.

This drive, the longest of the game, culminated in touchdown pass by Crimson Hawk quarterback Williams, making the score 23-10.

The 16-point stretch that the Crimson Hawks wove together

in the third quarter ultimately proved to be the undoing of the Lakers.

The fourth quarter saw Altavilla intercepted once again. With this, the Crimson Hawks returned to Laker territory, finishing off with another field goal.

Redshirt junior Ram Finnegan came in for the Lakers’ third drive of the quarter, but a fumble by Finnegan resulted in a Crimson Hawk recovery for a touchdown.

The Crimson Hawks missed their extra point, but the Lakers weren’t able to convert on their last drive of the game, ending with a final of 36-10.

“We fought hard all game,” said Novak after the game. “But we just made some mistakes that we had trouble rebounding from.”

Novak is near the end of his time at Mercyhurst, but he has a lot to show for it. Novak currently boasts a career 1,658 yards receiving and 15 touchdowns.

“Overall, nothing but positives,” said Novak of his time as a Laker. “I’ve made some lifelong friends playing football for Mercyhurst, and learned a lot about being disciplined as a player and as a person.”

Coming off of the win, the Crimson Hawks remain perched atop the Division II rankings.

The Lakers (4-6, 3-4 PSAC) still have one game left to play, ending the 2017 season against Lock Haven, which is currently 2-8.

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

SPORTS

PAGE 15

MU hockey splits with PSU

By Breonna Bailey

Staff writer

The Mercyhurst Lakers men’s ice hockey team has split with its opponent once again.

After taking down the Nittany Lions in a high-scoring affair on Nov. 3, the Lakers fell the next night in another high-scoring game.

The Lakers took down the 17th-ranked Penn State Nittany Lions with a final score of 7-4 on Friday night.

The Lakers started strong, taking a 3-0 lead in the first period.

The Laker lead started with a goal from Jonathan Charbonneau (assisted by Derek Barach and Jack Riley) only 13 seconds into the game.

Charbonneau’s goal was followed by goals from Joshua Lammon and Zach Todd (both goals were assisted by Les Lancaster).

They weren’t able to keep the lead going into the first intermission. Penn State managed to get 2 goals on the board.

In the second period, Todd netted his second of the night (assisted by Lammon and Best), giving the Lakers a 4-2 lead.

The Nittany Lions came back and capitalized on a power play

Contributed photo

Lakers huddle behind the Penn State net. The Lakers won 7-4 against Penn State on Nov. 3.

opportunity, tightening the Lakers’ lead.

Barach scored, assisted by Riley and Charbonneau, halfway through the second, making the Lakers’ lead 5-3.

Penn State’s Sam Sternschein recorded a goal late in the second period, giving the Lakers a 1 goal lead.

Lancaster netted two pow-

er-play goals in the third, giving the Lakers a three-goal advantage.

Both of these power-play goals were assisted by Charbonneau and Barach.

“We did a lot of the details right tonight,” said Lancaster, reflecting on the Lakers win.

Lakers goaltender Brandon Wildung recorded 50 saves in Mercyhurst’s 7-4 win in front of a sold-

out crowd at Pegula Ice Arena.

Saturday’s game was another high-scoring affair for the Lakers and the Nittany Lions.

Unfortunately, the Lakers couldn’t pull through for the win.

Penn State managed to get on the board first by scoring at 2:33 of the first period.

Halfway through the first, Riley got the Lakers on the board to

Women’s b-ball polled 9th

By Marco Cicchino Staff writer

With no Natalie Piaggesi or Angela Heintz to lead the way, the current Lakers were polled in last place for the PSAC West.

It was just eight months ago that the Mercyhurst Lakers women’s basketball team was considering whether the Lakers would be receiving their first NCAA bid in 22 years.

They would do just that, and went on to record the second-best season in program history since that 1994-95 squad that reached the Elite Eight.

But it was also just 11 days prior that an upset of third-ranked California doubled as one of the most bittersweet Senior Days in recent memory.

Laker Coach Deanna Richard graduated an extremely loaded and talented senior class, including her top three scorers and leaders from a season that rewrote a significant portion of the program record books.

PSAC champs Indiana were tabbed as preseason favorites in the poll released Oct. 6, taking 8 of the 9 first-place votes in the West.

Atlantic Region top-seed and finalists California grabbed the only other vote, followed by Edinboro, Seton Hill, Gannon, Slippery Rock, Clarion and Pitt-Johnstown.

From the beginning, last season appeared to be one of the most historic in recent memory as Rich-

ard’s squad compiled an 11-1 start before the calendar even flipped to 2017.

The only defeat came from the eventual undefeated national champions Ashland University.

After their eight-game winning streak was snapped Jan. 9 against current preseason favorites Indiana, the Lakers responded by going 9-4 the rest of the way.

On Jan. 10, they reached the 21st spot on the national media poll, recording the best start to a season since 1988.

Along the way, they recorded the fourth-best defense in the PSAC at 59.7 allowed points per contest, led the conference in defensive rebounds and rebounding margin and were one of six teams to outscore their opponents by at least nine per game.

Additionally, they held their opponents to just 27.8 percent from downtown (second in the PSAC), and went 14-2 when scoring at least 70 points.

Individually, Laker senior Piaggesi led the conference with an average of two blocks per contest, including setting a program record with 173 at Gannon.

She retired as the longest-tenured Laker with 115 games played and fourth-leading scorer in program history (1,609).

Angela Heintz, teammates with Piaggesi dating back to their state title in 2012 at Seton-LaSalle High School, made her own mark as well.

She became the 20th Laker

“

The path they lead has not only helped the current upperclassmen but the program overall.”

Emilee Norris

to record 1,000 points with the Green-and-White on Feb. 18 in a win over Edinboro.

Heintz also set single-season (211) and career (400) assist records.

Meanwhile, North East product Alex Artise became the first player in program history to be named Defensive Player of the Year, taking home the West Division honor.

She then joined Richard’s coaching staff after suffering a career-ending knee injury. The biggest challenge would be filling in their shoes.

“They were all great leaders that excelled on and off the court,” said junior Emilee Norris. “However, the path they led has helped not only the current upperclassmen, but the program overall.”

But a graduating senior was the leading scorer in every contest.

Returning players accounted for only 23.2 percent of the Lakers’ scoring.

Leading the way will be junior

Maria Lapertosa, the only non-senior to rank in the top seven in scoring at 8.3 points per game.

The Whitesboro, New York, native contributed nicely off the bench throughout the season, shooting 80.6 percent from the line, good enough for ninth in the PSAC. The Lakers have one of the youngest teams in the conference this season. Luckily, the six incoming freshmen maintain a strong high-school record, beginning with Burrell product Eliza Oswalt.

Despite the squad’s 9-14 record, Oswalt led the team with 21.7 points per contest and broke the 1,000-point plateau in early 2017.

Emily Shopene, meanwhile, was named to the state Class 4A third team and comes from a 20-4 Mercyhurst Prep squad that reached the District 10 title game.

Coming to Erie from nextdoor Ohio is Rachel Chessar, a 1,000-point scorer at Akron’s Archbishop Hogan; Vivian Allison, a first-team selection in the Ohio Valley Athletic Conference for both basketball and soccer; and Meghan Komendarek, a standout a three-time Class B AllState Selection.

Rounding out the freshmen is Mallory Ashe, a two-sport athlete and prestigious Science Academy participant at Mount Mercy in Angola, New York.

The Lakers take to the court Nov. 11, traveling to face off against Notre Dame of Ohio.

tie it at one (assisted by Todd and Barach).

A minute and a half later, Best managed to find the back of the net and give the Lakers their first and only lead of the game.

Early in the second, the Nittany Lions were up 4-2.

Late in the second period, Lammon seized a power-play opportunity, bringing the Lakers within one.

A quick 46 seconds later, Penn State capitalized on an opportunity, making it a 5-3 game.

Todd scored (assisted by Elliot) at 6:17 of the third period, bringing the Lakers back within 1.

At the halfway point of the third period, Elliot tied the game 5-5 with assists from Barach and Best.

The Nittany Lions netted 2 goals before time expired, giving them a 7-5 win over the Lakers.

Wildung had another 50-save game.

“I thought we had a pretty good weekend, but today is pretty disappointing,” Lammon said after Saturday’s game.

The Lakers return to the ice at home, hosting Canisius College for two games Nov. 10-11.

It will be the first time this season that the Lakers play at home in the Mercyhurst Ice Center.

COMING UP

LET’S GO,

LAKERS! Nov. 10, Mercyhurst Ice Center @ 3 p.m.: Women’s ice hockey vs. University of Minnesota Nov. 10, Mercyhurst Ice Center @ 7:05 p.m.: Men’s ice hockey vs. Canisius College Nov. 10, Edinboro University @ 7:05 pm.: Volleyball vs.

Edinboro University Nov. 11, Mercyhurst Ice Center @ 10:00 p.m.: ACHA hockey vs. Duquesne University Nov. 11, Lock Haven University @ noon: Football vs. Lock Haven University (Last game of the season)

PAGE 16

LAKER LIVING

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

HURST TOON Student-drawn cartoon by Periwinkle