The Merciad, Feb. 12, 2014

THE Merciad

EST. 1929 VOL. 87 NO. 12

MERCYHURST UNIVERSITY

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2014

Big weekend Team ranks at No. 8 after winning streak

Read more on page 7

Jake Lowy photo

Mercyhurst discounts summer class sessions

By Juan Mendez News editor

Sami Rapp photo

Students like sophomores Tonya Lenhart and Jordan Strange may be seen studying all year around, thanks to changes in the coming summer’s tuition.

Merciad Index News Features Features A&E Opinion Sports Laker Living

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In an attempt to reduce costs for students needing to take extra classes, Mercyhurst has discounted tuition for traditional students for the 2014 summer sessions.

The effort is consistent with the school’s efforts to help focus on the needs of their students.

Mercyhurst will charge $810 per credit plus a $65 registration fee, a decrease from previous fees of $947 per credit.

According to Michele Wheaton, assistant vice president for academic services academic affairs, the summer program has also been slightly redesigned to accommodate

summer schedules.

The Pre-Summer session, from May 19 to June 12, and the Mini-Summer session, from June 23 to July 17, will both be similar to the J-term system, with classes Monday through Thursday.

Classes will be offered in the mornings and evenings for both sessions.

There will also be a nineweek session from June 1 through August 3. Courses offered during this session will mostly be online and evening classes, along with a few morning classes.

Course offerings are geared to fit students’ needs. “We looked into what students usually take during summer sessions, as well as courses we don’t offer enough of during

Online Poll Results What is your opinion of J-term now that it’s over?

22% My class was exactly what I expected it to be.

8% I paid for 3 credits of nap time.

19% I’m glad it will lighten my spring term class load.

52% At least it’s over - never again.

the year,” Wheaton said.

Students should contact Student Financial Services, as aid may be available for summer courses.

For students staying in Erie, campus housing can be rented through Residence Life at a rate of $75 a week.

Course offerings are accessible through WebAdvisor, but updates will show as more courses are added to the catalog.

Students can only take two courses during summer sessions, at which point they are considered full-time students.

@jaymnd

Read more inside & online

News: - ’Hurst PSAC athletes excel in academics Features: - Kushner wins script contest Arts & Entertainment: - ‘Concealed I Reveal’ opens in Cummings Art Gallery

Be sure to vote in this week’s online poll: What do you like best about this weather?

merciad.mercyhurst.edu

Page 2

News

February 12, 2014

The Merciad

Gary Brown named Jenner to speak in PAC head of North East

By Marcela Delgado Staff writer

By Will Bickelmann Staff writer

Gary M. Brown, Ph.D., has resumed his position as head of Mercyhurst North East after the January retirement of former head, Kenneth Zirkle, Ph.D. Brown has been a Mercyhurst employee for 24 years, with 15 in the position he is currently resuming.

When asked how the decision to make Brown the head of the North East campus was made, President Tom Gamble, Ph.D., said, “There was a very strong consensus on the fact that his background and history were rather suitable for the position. He became the logical choice.”

Brown is no stranger to the leadership position, as he was head of Mercyhurst North East from 1996 until 2011, before he took on the position of senior vice president

and chief financial officer.

When Brown was in this position in 1996, the North East campus had only 150 students and, upon leaving, enrollment had increased to approximately 1,100.

The Board of Trustees advised Gamble in the decision he made to put Brown in charge of Mercyhurst North East, but he was the obvious choice from the beginning.

“Dr. Brown has many strong political, philanthropic and business ties in the area, which makes him even more qualified for the position,” Gamble said.

Upon accepting the position, Brown said, “I am very excited about returning to Mercyhurst North East and reconnecting with colleagues and people in the North East community who have always been extremely supportive of MNE.” When asked what Brown’s new position means immediately for the students of

Mercyhurst North East and the main campus, Gamble said, “Well, it might take him a little time to get settled into his current role, but I’m sure there will be changes underway the students can see.”

Some of Brown’s previous positions at Mercyhurst include Associate Dean of Students, Director of Retention and Residence Life (1994-1996) and Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Residence Life (1989-1994.). Prior to joining Mercyhurst, Brown was employed at Southern Illinois University at Carbondale as the Assistant Head Resident and Coordinator of Housing Programming.

@TheMerciad

J-term experience generally positive

By Conner Edgar Staff writer

This winter Mercyhurst University offered J-Term for students.

The J-Term, scheduled between the fall and spring semesters, provided students the opportunity to take one class, complete an internship opportunity, or stay at home for additional time off for winter break.

Since the term was only three weeks, the duration of class time was increased to three hours per class.

For most students, having one class per day for three weeks sounds like ample time to gain a quick three credits, or complete a difficult science and lab course, lessening a student’s burden while taking other classes.

Senior international business major Colin McDonald said, “I would have to say the

J-Term is a good idea for students because it gives them the opportunity to gain some credits but also have enough down time to relax and see friends while at school.”

Some students, however, have not had the best experiences. The Sunday and Monday before the term began, the US obtained record low temperatures causing large amounts of snowfall and ice.

The snow and ice prevented airplanes from landing into Erie International Airport, redirecting flights to surrounding cities. Many students that were flying into Erie had to wait in Pittsburgh, Detroit and Philadelphia airports until the weather in Erie calmed down so flights could be cleared for landing.

Mauricio Canton, a junior intelligence major from Mexico, could not find a flight until the following Tuesday.

Since he missed a week of

classes due to canceled flights, he had no choice but to drop the class. Mauricio found the ordeal frustrating.

“It’s not fair. Since the J-Term was so short, it did not give enough time for students to catch up on missed work.

Missing class would put a student too far behind without enough time to catch up,” he said.

“For me, I did not have a choice because of the weather.

I was forced to drop my class and the credits I would have earned are now lost.”

With J-Term over and the Spring term in full tilt, students who completed J-Term were offered to fill out a survey that will bring in a collective feedback of every students experience.

@TheMerciad

‘Hurst PSAC athletes excel in academics

By Brinsley Maughan-Evanson Staff writer

Mercyhurst athletes lead the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) in terms of academic success.

The academic success rate is measured by degree completion among freshman classes over a four-year period.

A statement released by the PSAC explains that student-athletes in this conference continue to graduate at a higher rate than the national Division II average.

Between the classes of 2003-2006, the Lakers have lead the conference with 89 percent Academic Success Rate (ASR).

There have been three teams that stand out with a 100 percent ASR: men’s and women’s tennis and women’s

golf.

The women’s golf team’s season begins in spring, but according to Coach Ron Coleman, his team’s work ethic is all-year around in the classroom and on the golf course.

“Their time-management skills are what allows them to achieve high levels in all areas,” Coleman said.

He said that most of his athletes have to balance a full schedule, a job, and activities outside of their sport.

He said that his athletes’ work in the classroom shows him that they are self-motivated on and off the course.

Along with women’s golf, the men’s and women’s tennis teams have maintained a perfect academic success rate as well.

Tennis Coach Jerome Simon finds that excelling in the classroom must come before playing on the courts.

He emphasizes to his players that it is up to them how hard they want to work inside and outside of the classroom.

Not only do the coaches encourage class attendance, but Simon insists that players are “not allowed to miss class for practice,” and he also explains that he does most everything he can in order for players to be able to attend class on days that a match is scheduled.

Being ranked as a leader in Academic Success is a huge award for Mercyhurst Athletics and PSAC members alike.

Coach Simon and Coach Coleman have enforced the importance of balancing school-work and practice to their players.

@TheMerciad

This Wednesday, Feb. 12, at 8:30 p.m., Mercyhurst Student Government will be hosting Olympic athlete Bruce Jenner as part of the MSG Distinguished Speaker Series at Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.

The event is open to students, faculty and administrators.

Jenner is an Olympic gold medalist who accomplished a world record in the 1976 Olympic games for his decathlon performance.

“Finding the Champion Within” has been his message throughout his motivational sports speaker career, reflecting on his Olympic journey and how it translates to the business world and everyday life.

Jenner is also known for his involvement on the reality show “Keeping Up With the Kardashians,” centered around the lives of Bruce and his family.

For more information, follow MSG on Twitter at @ msgLakers. @mddg0293

usmagazine.com photo

Jenner is known for his gold medal decathlon performance at the 1976 Olympics and his reality TV appearances.

News Brief

Mercyhurst student jailed for assault Mercyhurst University student Kyle L. Briggs, 21, was arraigned on Thursday, Feb. 6, on charges of aggravated assault, reckless endangerment, terroristic threats, unlawful restraint, robbery and theft by unlawful taking.

Briggs, an intelligence studies major, was placed in Erie County Prison in lieu $100,000 bond.

According to Erie police reports, Briggs repeatedly punched a man in the face, broke his nose and two teeth and threatened to kill him if he did not give him his car keys, after which he took the victim’s vehicle and gun.

Ex-student sentenced on sexual assault charge Joseph Bostrom, 19, was sentenced last week on charges of sexually assaulting another student in her sleep in January 2013.

He was sentenced to two years of probation and court fees.

Bostrom will also have to register as a sex offender for 15 years under Megan’s Law, as the victim wanted the plea deal to subject him to sex offender registration requirements, so it would have a longer impact than a prison sentence.

Bostrom was accused in January 2013, after she woke up to find her pants and underwear removed and Bostrom standing nearby putting on a condom. He later admitted to police that he had indecent contact with the victim before she woke up.

In exchange for the registration sentencing, the prosecution dropped the charges of aggravated assault of an unconscious person and indecent assault of an unconscious person.

Bostrom was an offensive lineman for the Mercyhurst football team during the 2012-2013 season prior to his withdrawal at the time the charges were pressed.

Mercyhurst University Police & Safety

Police Log

Wednesday, Jan. 29 Assault, Criminal Mischief, Drug Paraphernalia McAuley Hall Criminal arrest Saturday, Feb. 1 False ID, Public Intoxication, Underage Consumption Lot #8 Referred for discipline Saturday, Feb. 1 Underage Consumption, Public Intoxication Warde Hall Referred for discipline Sunday, Feb. 2 Harassment Warde Hall Closed Sunday, Feb. 2 Underage Consumption Briggs Ave. Referred for discipline Monday, Feb. 3 Underage Consumption 611 East 38th Res-Life incident Saturday, Feb. 8 Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Controlled Substance Lot #19 Referred for discipline

February 12, 2014

The Merciad

Page 3

Features

Students volunteer at the Erie City Special Olympics

By Erin McGarrity Contributing writer

Salina Bowe photo

Many students volunteered to help make the Erie City Special Olympics a successful event.

The Mercyhurst Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) and the Education Department coordinated a group of students and faculty members to volunteer at the Winter Special Olympics on Thursday, Feb. 6, at Peek‘n Peak Resort.

The Winter Special Olympics is an annual event where more than 200 special needs athletes compete in outdoor events, such as cross country skiing and snowshoe. Volunteers were not limited to education majors or members of CEC. Students assisted an athlete

over the course of the day by helping them retrieve their equipment and cheering them on at their events. After the competition was over, everyone returned to the “Olympic Village” for various crafts and activities. Volunteers enjoyed decorating cookies, eating lunch and face painting with their buddies.

“You create a special bond with the athletes that you will never forget; personally, they inspire me. They prove everyone wrong that may underestimate what they can do. When the day is over, you look forward to next year and what bigger and better experience we can bring for the athletes,” said senior Kelley Hynes, who, with the assistance of Assis-

tant professor of education Susan Johnson and the rest of the department, helped to organize the event and volunteers.

Each athlete got at least one ribbon for participation.

“I look forward to the Olympics every year,” said Harry Henderson, who won first place in cross-country skiing. “I’m really proud of myself. I trained really hard, and I think it paid off.”

For more volunteer opportunities like this one, keep an eye on The Weekender and the Mercyhurst Campus Ministry newsletter for announcements about upcoming events. @TheMerciad

Sustainability office encourages students to help environment

By Amanda Moore Contributing writer

Since becoming the director of the Sustainability Office in 2010, Brittany Prischak has made an impact on green initiatives at Mercyhurst.

Prischak’s goals for the office are to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly university.

One goal is to remove paper towel dispensers and replace them with high-efficiency hand dryers which cuts down on energy.

In addition to helping the environment, this program is also estimated to save Mercyhurst $15,000 per year. Installation is expected to take four to five years, Prischak said.

Prischak added that not all the Sustainability Office’s goals are financially-oriented. Other goals include recycling, creating bicycle lanes, introducing reusable cafeteria containers and

increasing the number of campus Evive stations which give students clean water to fill water bottles, reducing plastic waste, among others.

“Some are not cost savings, like our composting program, but we do it because it’s the right thing to do,” Prischak said.

Prischak has worked with The Green Team to create a more eco-friendly campus.

The Green Team, founded in 2000, is a student organization dedicated to ecofriendly initiatives. In 2006, Cathy Pedler, an archaeology field instructor, headed the Sustainability Office until Prischak took over.

The Sustainability Office’s efforts are intended for the good of the community and future generations. “...Essentially, we want to decrease our contribution to climate change,” Prischak said. “Most of the projects we are working on decrease the waste sent to the landfill and increase recycling.”

Prischak and the Sus-

Grad student visits Turkey

By Heather Swede Contributing writer

Melonie Richey, a graduate student majoring in Applied Intelligence, went to Turkey in Jan. 2014.

The reason for her trip was to see up close what was going on in regards to the movement of Syrian refuges.

Before her trip she had created a simulation that predicted the population movement of Syrian refuges in Turkey. It also told where certain groups such as Sunni Muslims, Kurds, Alawites and Christians were anticipated to go once in Turkey.

This interest in the Syrian refugee movement was what led Richey to Turkey. She wanted to see if people actually followed the paths her simulations predicted or not.

While there, Richey was able to talk with 20 families and over 100 individuals who told her stories of their expe-

riences.

An interesting group of people that she was able to talk with was a group of 15 former members of the Free Syrian Army.

These men were a particular interest to Richey because they were all around her age of 23, and they all attended universities just as she attends Mercyhurst. The difference between Richey and these men was that they woke up with AK-47s and went and killed Syrian regime fighters every day whereas Richey went to school and created simulations.

She will be replicating the simulation she created for the Syrian refugee movement soon, but this time the focus will be on Africa. This new simulation will be part of a project for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.

@TheMerciad

tainability Office plan to continue creating a more eco-friendly campus by increasing bike safety on campus by adding bike racks and lanes, LEED-certified Green Buildings, permeable parking lots to help manage storm water, and installing a Rain Garden to allow runoff water to be absorbed.

Prischak encouraged students to support the green initiative by interning in the office, working on sustainability projects for classes, volunteering or participating.

To raise awareness, students can like them on Facebook at the Mercyhurst Office for Sustainability page, Prischak said.

Students can also contact Brittany Prischak at bprischak@mercyhurst.edu if they would like to find out more information about the Sustainability Office or raising awareness.

@TheMerciad

Casey Bleuel photo

As Sustainability Office director, Brittany Prischak encourages the campus to go green.

Page 4

February 12, 2014

The Merciad

Features

Kushner wins script contest

By Nathan Turner Staff writer

Michael Murphy photo

Ryan Kushner’s script will be produced as this year’s student film.

Each year, the Mercyhurst Communications Department produces a film written by one of its students. This year, the spotlight has fallen upon a script titled “My Roast Duck” by sophomore Ryan Kushner.

“It’s about a lonely college student who tries to turn his luck around by hitting a bike race in winter,” Kushner said. “And it’s also about the people he meets along the way.”

One might wonder about how the title comes out of a plot like that and the answer is quite simple: “An old

proverb goes, ‘A man who waits for a roast duck to fly into his mouth must wait a very long time.’”

Thus, according to Kushner, the film is about “a character who is tired of waiting for life to happen to him and so attempts to take charge and make it happen for himself. He’s seeking his own metaphorical ‘roast duck.’”

Script writing is not new to Kushner. He also submitted the script last year for consideration, but a now-alumna Caitlin McBride’s film “100” was chosen instead. Professor Denis Lebec, however, encouraged him to submit it again. Kushner thanked Lebec for doing so, because as he said, “without his sup-

port, I probably would have just let it go.”

After being asked what the highlight of the whole process was, Kushner said “holding the finished product in my hands and thinking, ‘I made this.’”

His aspirations to work in TV and film show that he would definitely gain some helpful experience from shooting his film.

“It’s going to be a learning experience,” he stated.

Kushner also wanted to include his public thanks to his friends at Mercyhurst and for all of their support.

Last, but not least, however, he would like to thank his parents.

“Growing up, whenever I

mentioned television or film writing as a possible thing I wanted to do, they’re the only ones who never looked at me like I was a nutcase.

And I think being exposed to that kind of blatant denial of improbability is what leads to wild creative attempts like ‘My Roast Duck,’” he said.

As wild the attempt may seem, there are high hopes for this film which will premiere at the end of the semester.

If you are interested in helping with the film, you may contact Ryan Kushner at rkushn60@lakers.mercyhurst.edu. @TheMerciad

Senior Week goes well for all

By Samantha Beckas Contributing writer

Every student looks forward to graduating college after years of hard work.

The Senior Gift Committee and the Alumni Office put together a successful senior week.

Senior Week falls on the same week as the one-hundredth day before graduation. All events were organized by senior Chelsea Ulrich with help from the alumni office.

Senior Week kicked off on Monday, Feb. 3, in the Student Union. There, seniors could buy their official Senior Week t-shirts that got them into the Cornerstone for the Friday night event.

Tuesday night’s event was glow bowling at Eastland Lanes.

On Wednesday, the Senior Gift Committee hosted a wing night in the student union. Students paid $2 for eight wings. Ulrich said “we crowned The Fiddle Inn in Harborcreek, with the ‘Best Chicken Wing in Erie.’”

The Annual Senior Date Auction was on Thursday in Taylor Little Theatre.

This event alone raised over $1,300 for the senior gift.

The Senior Gift Committee would like to thank the local businesses that made the senior date auction possible with their gracious

donations. They would also like to thank all those who attended and participated in the event.

The Senior Date Auction went very well and was a successful event. To bring extra attention to the event, it was rumored that those who won SAC Chair Victoria Lewis and MSG Events Coordinator Mark Ennis would be the first two students to know the 2014 Spring Fest artist.

On Friday night, the official mark of the remaining 100 days for seniors, a pizza party was held in Egan to start off the special night.

The dinner was free to seniors and allowed them to relax and eat before traveling to the Cornerstone.

At the Cornerstone, the basement was reserved for Mercyhurst seniors. There were “senior specials” for all of those in attendance wearing the official senior week shirt including the “senior citizen” drink and the “mean green” shot.

Each event had at least 75 people and all ran smoothly.

The week raised over $2,500 and the senior gift committee raised it.

The goal for the senior gift is $5,000. This money will go towards a designated student section at Tullio Field and renovations and technological improvements to the large study room on the third floor of Hammermill Library.

Ideally, the Senior Gift Committee would like 56 percent of all donations to come from the senior class.

This can be made possible by students donating $50, $75 or $100.

Those who donate $50 will get their name on a recognition plaque located on Tullio Field and in the library.

Those who donate $75 or $100 will have their name displayed more prominently.

Ulrich and the Senior Gift Committee would like to thank everybody who made this week possible and extend their gratification for all the support.

Ulrich’s favorite event from senior week was the 100 Days Until Graduation party at the Cornerstone.

“It was one big celebration of being a senior and everyone was so happy to be there! It was great to have everyone together under one roof and to see people you haven’t in a while. I think everyone made it onto the dance floor at some point in the night,” she said.

Senior week has received positive feedback and was very successful.

Those interested in donating should contact Ulrich at culric37@lakers.mercyhurst. edu.

Salina Bowe photo

@TheMerciad

(Clockwise starting left) Seniors Marisa Jacobson, Rachel Hammond, Eric Pelosi, Kellie Wendell, and Stephanie Molnar at the 100 Days Party at the Cornerstone.

MSG

Senator Spotlight

By Casey Bleuel

Hello, my name is Katey Kaiser and I am a senior music education major.

On MSG I serve as the senator for the School of Arts and Humanities and I am on the Residence Life Committee. Aside from MSG, I am a member of the Ambassador Club, Phi Eta Sigma and Kappa Delta Pi. I enjoy everything from beach volleyball to apple picking, dancing, attending Hurst sporting events, skating and cats. I love Mercyhurst and have met some amazing people and I look forward to the rest of my final year here. If you see me walking the campus, approach me your concerns or just say “hello!” Remember “We’re Your Voice!”

Casey Bleuel photo

Zumba is a fun and great way to get exercise. What is better than dancing to the latest pop hits and losing a few calories along the way? Instructor Lauren Dargay, senior, leads the class on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays every week. The genres vary from pop, country and Latin.

Students dance to songs by artists like Pitbull, Rihanna, LMFAO, Katy Perry and Lady Gaga.

Zumba has been all the rage lately and its popularity continues to grow. The best part is, you do not even have to be a dancer to join Zumba. It’s for everyone. It may be a little intimidating and seem impossible to follow along at first, but you will quickly get the hang of it. Zumba is a full body workout, focusing on your arms, abdomen, legs and more. After a while you forget that it is even exercise, it’s that fun! So the next time you are in the mood for a workout, don’t run on a boring treadmill, head to Zumba class.

The Merciad

February 12, 2014

Page 5

Arts &

Entertainment

‘Concealed I Reveal’ opens ‘The Lego Movie’ impresses with in Cummings Art Gallery

By Sam Beckas Staff writer

It’s that time again when you will start noticing a new art exhibit in Cummings Art Gallery located in the lobby of the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.

Jodi Staniunas-Hopper, assistant professor in the art department, is putting together a piece of 50 Luchador masks and other costumes wear made out of old wedding dresses.

Art is an ongoing, continuous project just as dance and music is. Staniunas-Hopper has been working on this project for over 18 months after receiving a research grant for this particular show.

As said before, this exhibit is primarily made out of old wedding dresses. The purpose of this piece is to “alert women that ‘games’ we play with our identity and the illusions that are perpetuated by the princess mythology exemplified by the wedding gown attire,” said Staniunas-Hopper. This was her inspiration.

The masks and costumes that are made out of the wed-

Jodi Staniunas-Hopper/miac.mercyhurst.edu photo

Jodi Staniunas-Hopper is hosting a exhibit for her artwork series, Concealed I Reveal, which opens on Feb. 20 in the Cummings Art Gallery. ding dresses are then worn by models and photographed.

Staniunas-Hopper decided to leave the photos without being retouched and edited to exemplify the ideal role of women versus the real women.

This piece is very much about

the roles that women play. Staniunas-Hopper would like those who visit to reflect on when they wear masks in their own lives.

What’s so great about this exhibit is that it is so elegant and pretty, yet so meaningful.

There is a strong message that

Staniunas-Hopper gets across to the viewers.

Opening night for Concealed I Reveal is Thursday, Feb. 20.

Starting at 6 p.m. in Zurn, room 114 with an artist talk lead by Staniunas-Hopper. From 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. visitors can see and experience the exhibit first hand.

The artist talk will include an in-depth talk with Staniunas-Hopper about the process, her inspiration, and any other questions visitors may have. She encourages all to come.

During the opening, those who visit have the chance to get their picture taken with the masks. This opportunity gives the viewers a chance to interact with the art piece while developing their own sense of meaning of the art piece.

Staniunas-Hopper would like to give special thanks to all of those involved in the process of this piece including the art department former chairperson, Dan Burke, her assistant, Ashley Favata, her workstudies, volunteers, models and the dress donors.

@TheMerciad

8 p.m.

Saturday, February 15th Taylor Little Theatre

high reviews

By Will DeFeo

Advertising Editor If, when you heard there was going to be a LEGO movie, you thought of your favorite childhood moments or sets with the building blocks, congratulations: you have taken the first step to uncovering what makes ‘The LEGO Movie’ a more than worthy recipient of a score above 90 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

Like many, I first heard of the movie through its hysterical trailer. A quick search of the cast of voice actors, ranging from Chris Pratt of Parks and Recreation, comedic legend Will Ferrell, to Community and Mad Men starlet Alison Brie left me dumbfounded. For a movie aimed at children, the nuance, detail, and polish to the humor rivals any blockbluster comedy.

The same can be said for the superb, silky animations and cinematography, all of which containing whimsical and rich visuals.

It is easy to be puzzled by the simplicity behind the film’s title. Entering the theater I was wondering, was it chosen to be broad enough to encompass the wide range of LEGO universes?

Is it meant to make the film seem like it doesn’t take itself seriously? The answer is both, and then some. It came to me afterward that no other title would capture the spirit of the film. It is exactly what it says: a movie about the experience of

en.wikipedia.org photo

The Lego Movie brought in high levels of viewers, box office revenue, and ratings during its first weekend at the box office.

LEGOs, ultimately pulling off a David Fincher-esque cinematic stunt which puts ‘The LEGO Movie’ in a league of its own.

The message the film was profound and subtly revealed as it progressed. It gave form to an idea which any LEGO fan, myself among them, knows but finds difficult to put to words.

Of course, that message is omitted in hope of making you curious enough to see a comedy truly deserving the praise and will proudly be passed on to the next generation of LEGO fans.

@TheMerciad

welcomes

Tedd y Geige

ny Tiffa on Hought

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Tiffany Houghton and Teddy Geiger will be co-showcasing an event for S.A.C. on Saturday, Feb. 15.

Student Activities Council hosts co-showcasing event

By Mary Barnes Staff writer

Online

This semester, Mercyhurst’s Student Activities Council is working hard to bring people from all over the country to our campus.

A few months back, the group attended a conference to brainstorm ideas of who and what to entertain our students as the weather finally brightens up. Each member of S.A.C. organizes their own event, and next week, Kaleigh Ruggiero, a sophomore SAC member, will be organizing her own.

At the National Association for Campus Activities conference, two artists in particular caught Ruggiero’s eye: Teddy Geiger and Tiffany Houghton.

These two will be performing on campus Sat., Feb. 15, in the Taylor Little Theatre.

Houghton is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter from Dallas, TX. She moved to Nashville at the age of 17 to begin her career and has been making progress ever since. The singer may be small, but her performance will be a show our campus will not forget.

She recently released a single “High” on iTunes and is currently working on her first album. A native of Dallas, TX, Tiffany kicked off her east coast college tour on Feb. 3, and will be visiting campuses including University of Pittsburgh at Bradford, California University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, as well as Mercyhurst.

Teddy Geiger has been around

Full list of events can be found on the PAC website

the block a few times, debuting his single “For You I Will” from the album Underage Thinking in 2006. He embarked on an international tour at the age of sixteen and has starred in the movie The Rocker in 2008.

Although Geiger has taken a few years off from producing his own music, he has been writing songs for bands like One Direction and Tiesto.

Recently, Geiger has put himself back on the map by releasing The Last Years, currently available on iTunes, and hitting the road.

Besides Mercyhurst, he will be visiting the Hard Rock Café in Pittsburgh, California University of Pennsylvania, St. Bonaventure University, and Akron, Ohio to perform.

Although organizing an event

of this capacity, Ruggiero is very excited to see her hard work pay off.

She and fellow S.A.C. member Michelle Farley have been taking requests from the artists, organizing the event and advertising to the campus for the big night.

“Although preparing for two artists to perform is harder than one, we have enjoyed preparing for Tiffany and Teddy,” Ruggiero says.

She also said she expects the night to be a huge success. All of Mercyhurst is excited for this upcoming event and to welcome two talented artists to our campus.

LEAF’s 9th Annual

Winterfest 2014 February 23, 2014 12 - 4 p.m.

For questions, contact:

@TheMerciad

View upcoming performances: www.miac.mercyhurst.edu

Lake Erie Arboretum at Frontier Park 1501 W. 6th Street, Erie, PA 16505 (814) 824-5323 www.leaferie.org leaferie@gmail.com

Horse Rides Ice Skating Sledding Ice Carvings Food/Drinks Music

www.merciad.mercyhurst.edu/ arts_entertainment

Page 6

February 12, 2014

The Merciad

Opinion

The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the views of Mercyhurst University, the staff of The Merciad Relay for Life successful or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are always welcomed and can be emailed to opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

We should all unite to address the issue of sexual assault

By Nathan Turner Staff writer

On Jan. 22, President Obama announced that he was forming a task force to help counter the rising problem of sexual assault on college campuses.

The statistics on the issue are alarming: 1 in 5 females are raped while in college; only 1 in 8 victims report it; one study posits that 7 percent of men in college have attempted rape, and 63 percent of those men have admitted committing multiple offenses (averaging six rapes each).

The majority of the victims knew their attackers prior to the rape and many of them take place in the party scene. Many of these rapes also take place under the influence of alcohol on both sides, and also entail the use of

date rape drugs.

The President’s White House Task Force to Protect Students From Sexual Assault was given 90 days to come up with recommendations for colleges to prevent this crime, as well as increase public awareness of each school’s track records, and coordinate responses from federal agencies to hold accountable schools that don’t address the problem.

It’s going to be interesting to see how this unfolds and overall how effective this task force will be in the future.

I am skeptical about how effective the president’s efforts, however well-meaning, will be. For the federal government to help students increase their reporting of sexual assault will be next to impossible, no matter how much pressure they bring down upon

schools with poor track records.

Short of installing secret student organizations trained to spot, report, and address the issue of sexual assault on college campuses, I fail to see how this issue can be addressed from a top-down perspective.

Let’s bring the issue a little closer to home then. It’s up to each individual person to get the guts to speak up. We know what’s happening, but we don’t speak up.

We hear the rumors of what happens on campus, at the parties, on the weekends, maybe some of the students reading this article have been involved directly or indirectly with sexual assaults. Some may be victims, some may be perpetrators.

However, I speak to the middle man. I speak to those who are trying to stay neutral, and not

acknowledge the problem. If you are one of those, the burden’s on you to speak up. You saw the stats on how little the victims report their abuse. And what perpetrator will have the crisis of conscience necessary to confess their sins?

It’s on the shoulders of the people who are trying to be neutral on the issue to speak up. You see something, say something.

We can’t rely on the school to do this for us. We are the student body and we’ve got to look out for each other. We must be prepared to speak up for those who are frightened to speak.

Our actions are the only way this will be effectively addressed; not by government efforts, not by school crackdowns, but by our individual actions. @TheMerciad

Super Bowl fails to impress

By Emani Burton Staff writer

Let’s be honest here, this year’s Super Bowl was extremely underwhelming, disappointing and quite frankly a waste of time.

With a feeling similar to that of rubber necking, or watching a fail blog video, I left my couch thinking, “What am I watching… am I in that weird part of YouTube again?”

But what made it so bad? Well.

The Seattle Seahawks laid waste to the Broncos. The players kept fumbling the ball. Bruno Mars and the Red Hot Chile Peppers

though fantastic on their own, scarred my ears and retinas.

And was it me or did the local used car dealership get way too much airplay? While all these elements contributed to the failure of Super Bowl XLVIII, it was the hype that nailed the coffin.

This Super Bowl was to have been an event of epic proportions. The nation’s best defenders and offenders were gonna make history.

It was a can’t-miss game; a write-home-to-your-mother game; a going-to-make-NFLhistory came. Each team so deserved the win. And yet it went

so wrong.

The Super Bowl is a time, when as a nation, Americans everywhere can sit together and realize that a little teamwork can go a long way.

We can veg out, sing the anthem and laugh together, despite our differences or even our passion for football. Whether it comes from our uniformed services, favorite bands or local passing legends, Americans can look at the Super Bowl and say this is true teamwork. We should strive for that.

But what we ended up seeing is an example of how great players can’t win on their own. They

can’t be the only ones to carry the show. Everyone has to pull their own weight.

Really… the best Super Bowl ever? That was just a little bit overstating it. The Super Bowl was less than super.

From its fumbled coin toss, to Manning’s embarrassing attempts to pass, I kept thinking “Put on the puppy bowl.

Where is the puppy bowl?” To be honest, at least those animals are cute and fluffy, Red Hot Chile Peppers not so much.

The Good...

Former Mercyhurst Laker Meghan Agosta-Maricano scored her first goal of the 2014 Olympics, helping the Canadian Olympic team secure a 3-0 win against Finland. Adding to the Laker pride, women’s hockey jumped to eighth in the latest USA Today poll.

After weeks of being missing, sushi is back at the Laker Inn.

The Bad...

The Erie County Department of Health gave Egan Dining Hall a critical violation for having no paper towels at the pizza’s hand-washing sink.

The Ugly...

Rumors are already starting up about who the 2014 Springfest artist will be. We’re still waiting for MSG to make an official announcement.

The Weird...

The Watcher and the alarm machine are still up at the library exit from Weber Hall, but the Watcher (a work study student) and the alarm machine are gone from the library exit at the bridge connecting to the CAE. The old space for the Watcher and the machine are now empty as MU awaits furnishings for the Sister Joan Chittester room. It’s a bit weird in that open space now.

@TheMerciad

Coke ad successfully portrays the diversity of our nation

By Sami Rapp Staff writer

There are two reasons everyone watches the Super Bowleither for the football game or for the advertisements.

While the game seemed to be a letdown, the commercials were excellent as always. This year, two commercials sparked a lot of controversy.

Cheerios brought back an ad idea from earlier in the year, one featuring an interracial family.

The other commercial was by Coca-Cola.

Coke’s ad sparked controversy with its commercial titled “It’s Beautiful.” It’s premise was to show the beauty that is America and that Coke is for everyone.

The commercial featured Americans of different nationalities singing “America the Beautiful” in seven different languages including Spanish, Keres, Tagalog, Hindi, Senegalese French and Hebrew.

People outraged, immediately flooded Twitter with messages of hate, many threatening to stop drinking Coke. The trending topic of the night was “#SpeakAmerican.” Racial slurs

and other negative comments were tweeted at Coca-Cola.

It’s really ironic that it’s 2014 and this bigotry is still being tolerated. Many people argued that this is America and everyone should be speaking English.

The thing is there is no national language here in the US. While the Constitution was written in English, it was technically never decided that English would be the mother language.

Another thing the tweets got wrong is the fact that “America the Beautiful” is not the national anthem, “The Star Spangled Banner” is.

It is sad that a country based on being a safe haven for immigrants has become a place of intolerance and hate.

I know that I am very disappointed in our country rather than keeping the values of this nation pure hate has quickly become somewhat of the norm.

Coke stands by its ad and so do I. It shows the beauty of our nation, celebrating all the nation has to offer.

@TheMerciad

Hydraulic fracturing affects us all

By Leann Krysiak Staff writer

Online

Hydraulic fracturing is an important conversation we all need to start having.

At first, I didn’t really think it affected me being in Erie, Pa. It should only affect those who are by the wells. I had an eye-opening trip to Washington, Pa., with the group ‘Our Water, Our Rights,’ listening to biology professors and local residents.

One couple told us how there are buses of workers who come

to their property to work on their well. They have no idea who these people are, but they did learn that the 49 workers on their property 32 had a criminal backgrounds that included theft, assault and rape. One worker was a sex offender. They didn’t know that until after the person was arrested on their property.

The couple has a young son.

For one resident, after they began drilling his water became tainted and was told not to drink it and not to let his cattle drink it. The company offered him a water buffalo, a tank with clean

water, but if he accepted the tank he would have also had to accept a gag order. What is the company doing that they feel the need to only provide water if he doesn’t speak about the company?

Another resident said there is a gas well really close to a school and a flare event occurred releasing emission from the well that reached the school grounds.

No one knows the effects of this because no one knows what’s in the emissions, it’s considered proprietary information.

Residents around the active wells reported respiratory prob-

Read more at

merciad.mercyhurst.edu/opinion

lems, dizziness, headaches, nausea and other gastro-intestinal problems. On Feb. 11 there was a gas well explosion in Greene County where one worker was injured and one was still unaccounted for.

While any company wants to make a profit, the question becomes, does a company have a right to make a profit even though it could jeopardize clean water and health for future generations? @TheMerciad

The Merciad Editors Mathew Anderson Zach Dorsch Juan Mendez Daniel Tarr Samantha Bante Garrett Erwin Alejandra Zeron Leann Krysiak Nicole Lawrence Sami Rapp Ethan Johns Will DeFeo Bill Welch

@mercyhurst.edu Positions editormerciad Editor-in-Chief managingmerciad Managing Editor newsmerciad News Editor featuremerciad Features Editor sportsmerciad Sports Editor A&E Editor entertainmentmerciad opinionmerciad Opinion Editor copymerciad Copy Editor photomerciad Graphics photomerciad Photo Editor ejohns89 Web Editor admerciad Ad Manager wwelch Adviser

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 120B. Our telephone 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.

Write for The Merciad, email editormerciad@mercyhurst.edu

February 12, 2014

Page 7

The Merciad

Sports

Women’s hockey reaches No. 8 in poll

By Samantha Bante Sports editor

Propelling forward through the season is the Mercyhurst women’s hockey team who has reached a No. 8 ranking in the most recent USCHO. com Division I women’s hockey poll, for the first time since October 2013.

With a recent successful weekend against the Rochester Institute of Technology, the Lakers now have a strong record of 19-7-3 and 12-3-1 in the College Hockey America conference. With just four in-conference games remaining, the Lakers sit first in the CHA with 25 points.

“I thought the games against RIT were great. Every game is a must win for us and we played both games like we wanted and needed to win. It was important for us to play together and we did just that.

RIT will win some important games the rest of the season, they are not an easy opponent, so getting these wins under our belt was crucial,” said senior assistant captain Christie Cicero.

Most recently the Lakers swept RIT at the Mercyhurst Ice Center last weekend, outscoring the Tigers 10-2 to win their fifth straight contest.

Taylor Bookmiller photo

Sophomore Jenna Dingeldein led the team with five points this past weekend against RIT and scored three coming on the power-play.

A big reason for the Laker’s success was their special team’s strategy with wiping the competitor’s power-plays, allowing the Lakers to score on majority of their power-plays.

“It always feels great seeing our school name back in the

rankings and first place. We have been fighting hard all season to be in the position we are in. We control our own destiny which makes every night that much more fun. Hopefully, this week we can jump a bit higher in the rankings, and continue to

win out and seal first place,” Cicero said.

Nationally, the Lakers have three players in the top 25 in points per game, two in goals per game, and four different in the top 25 in assists per game.

“The team is doing great.

Hockey is a long season, so we will always have ups and downs throughout the year.

But one the, we have figured out road blocks and have overcome adversity extremely well. I’m proud of how far our team has come this year and will be an exciting last

push the next two months,” Cicero said.

The Lakers are now fourth in scoring offense, averaging 3.52 goals per game, and jumped to ninth in and scoring defense (1.93).

A majority of the players are making strong impacts for the team on and off the ice.

“It’s difficult to name specific people because everyone contributes in different ways.

Our senior and junior class has shown amazing leadership which is what we needed with such a young team.”

“But other than our upperclassmen that are expected to step up, I am extremely proud of our sophomore class and how well they have handled situations this year. This class has stepped up tremendously and has transformed our group to a mature bunch of girls which is exactly what we need to win a championship,” Cicero said.

The Lakers will visit Penn State University this weekend, to compete in their last away series in the regular season.

@TheMerciad

Tibbett named AHA Co-Goaltender of Week

By Carly Contraguerro Contributing writer

Jordan Tibbett of the Mercyhurst men’s hockey team was named the Atlantic Hockey Association’s Co-Goaltender of the Week on Tuesday, Feb. 4.

The award is given to thegoalie of the week as voted

by AHA coaches and the media.

Tibbett has won this award several times for his impressive performances in goal keeping. He is sharing the award with Robert Morris’ Terry Shafer.

“Foremost, winning the award is a testament to my teammates. These awards don’t come around without a lot of hard work by a lot of people,” Tibbett said.

The first place Laker’s played number two-ranked

Bentley University, Friday, Jan. 31, and Saturday Feb. 1.

Mercyhurst finished the weekend home-series 1-0-1, including a 2-2 tie, Friday and a 4-1 win Saturday.

Jordan Tibbett played in goal both games in place of injured Jimmy Sarjeant.

He saved 32 of 34 shots on Friday a long with saving 37 shots and allowed one goal on 38 shots on Saturday.

“Bentley is a talented team, top to bottom. To get three out of four possible points this weekend should be a confidence boost and motivation to achieve some goals we have for ourselves as a team,” Tibbett said.

These games count towards a national poll rankings, the USCHO.com and USA Today / USA Hockey Magazine Division I men’s hockey poll.

Mercyhurst is not ranked

in the top 20, according to the USCHO poll.

The Lakers record is 13-2-4 in the conference and 15-10-5 overall which puts them in first place in the AHA conference.

When asked what the team is looking forward to next Tibbett said, “We’re really just trying to take it one day, one game at a time. Success is a process and it’s easy to lose sight of that.”

The next games for the Lakers will be played in Rochester, NY, as they take on the Rochester Institute of Technology Tigers for another weekend series on Friday, Feb. 14, and Saturday, Feb. 15.

Jake Lowy photo

@TheMerciad

The Lakers will play Rochester Institute of Technology for another weekend series on Friday Feb. 14 and Saturday Feb. 15.

Women’s lacrosse receives votes in IWLCA poll

By Samantha Bante Sports Editor

The Mercyhurst women’s lacrosse team received votes for the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) Pre-Season Poll.

During last season, the Lakers won 12 games on their way to the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) Tournament.

Some players to look for this season are junior Rebecca Himes who leads the team with 35 assists and 74 points, along with senior Anna LeGrett who trails Himes with 72 points and 27 assists.

“I think the team will be very successful this year. We have been working very hard through an intense pre-season. Overall, we’ve seen our stick work and offensive and defensive skills improve tremendously and we are working together well,” Himes said.

The Lakers lost three seniors last season, and gained five freshmen and added three transfers from St. Bonaven-

ture University.

“They all had a successful fall and winter with the team, particularly in the way they have added intensity both on offense and defense. They definitely keep the competition within the team high, helping to push everyone on the team to be better,” Himes said.

The Lakers face four programs featured in the top-15 in this upcoming season. They look forward to playing at Le Moyne on March 10 and at West Chester on March 29.

Mercyhurst then heads to Lock Haven on April 9, followed by IUP on April 15.

“We lost three seniors last year who all had a huge role on the team, but we have already seen many individuals step up and take leadership roles this year.

“It’s definitely different not having them here every day, but as we move into our new roles it’s been clear that we will be able to easily absorb the loss of those three seniors,” Himes said.

The Lakers will open the 2014 season against Roberts

The Mercyhurst women’s lacrosse received votes for the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association poll.

Wesleyan on March 5 at 4 p.m. on Tullio Field.

“The biggest goal for myself and the team this year is to win the PSAC champion-

ship. Since our practices thus far have been so successful, I really do believe that we can win it all. We all have our eyes set on the PSAC Cham-

pionship. We have the talent, depth, and drive to be successful throughout the season, and we just need to keep working hard, being intense

Ed Mailliard photo

and believe we can do it,” Himes said. @TheMerciad

Page 8

February 12, 2014

The Merciad

Laker

Living Geek Weekly: Browsing smarter

By Zach Dorsch Managing editor

Contrary to popular belief, just because you have nothing to hide doesn’t mean you should allow anyone to keep yourself wide open for people to snoop around. There are several easy ways to protect your self from marketers, perspective employees and private investigators who could be trying to access your browsing activities.

4. If private browsing is not enough protection for you, then it is time to step it up to the big leagues. Anonymous browsing allows you to hide your IP address and any other personal information from the website your visiting. The best one I found and I use personally is Tor Browser. This is available for Windows, Mac and Linux.

1. Make sure you remove cookies. Cookies are used by web developers to help people navigate their websites with ease.

They are the files that allow you to auto fill forms or log in to Facebook faster. The problem is cookies store personal information and can track your ads. The best way to get rid of these is to use the free program CCleaner. This will wipe your computer of your browser history and cookies.

By changing some of your web practices you can greatly increase your security online. It is important to remember that nothing is a perfect solution and it won’t guarantee you 100 percent protection.

By improving your practices online, the risk of identity theft will be greatly reduced and the overall health of the computer will be greatly increased.

2. Never let a site access your current location. If you’re still concerned about a site tracking you or just the overall safety of a site you can use the site privacychoice.com, which gives you a score for the site you want to visit.

3. Make sure to use a Private Browser. Most of the major web browsers offer some form of private browser such as Chromes “Incognito” mode. This mode of browsing will not save any data on your machine, which means cookies and browser history will not be saved. Be warned, though, this is not perfect; they can still track you on their end by matching your IP address with their records.

@zdorsc22

Beauty Talks

Chocolate oatmeal face mask

By Leann Krysiak Copy editor

You know it’s coming. A natural beauty recipe featuring chocolate. I couldn’t resist, I love chocolate. My aunt is just as obsessed saying chocolate is its own food group. Just the smell of chocolate can lift your mood.

This recipe features cocoa powder, which contains antioxidants (the darker, the better). Another star of the show is oats. Oats act as a gentle exfoliate and soothes irritated skin. We all know honey is a great cleanser is an anti-bacterial agent. Cream, heavy or sour cream hydrates the skin (you can use plain yogurt as well). Combined together these ingredients are a power team, helping to refresh your skin after a long week.

I had to make some adjustments as the original recipe makes enough for a soccer team. I cut the recipe in half and still had quite a bit left over, but then again if you’re having a girls’ night you will have plenty. For the original recipe check out Gourmandeinthekitchen.com: Chocolate Oatmeal Face Mask 1 tsp Cocoa powder 2 tsp Cream 1 tsp Oats 1 tsp Honey

Grind the oatmeal in a food processor or blender until it becomes a powder. Mix all ingredients until well combined.

Apply immediately using clean fingers. Massage into skin for 30-45 spare seconds. Wipe off after 15-20 minutes.

Need help finding the ingredients? Check out the ingredient guide on Fresh Face Forward’s Recipe page.

Did you like it? Love it? Tell me what you think on the Fresh Face Forward’s Facebook page or send your comments to freshfaceforward@gmail.com. @LeannKrysiak

Roll-out Sugar Cookies

By Sami Rapp

Difficu lty: M e Total Time: dium 1.

Cook Time: 5 hours 11 Yield: 3 doze minutes n cook ies

Photo editor

Why I like this recipe: This recipe tastes just like Eat’n’Park’s cookies and are made of ingredients most people already have in their pantry. It is also a lot of fun and is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Ingredients 3 cups all-purpose flour 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter 1 1/3 cups sugar 2 large eggs 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder and salt.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter until smooth, about 2 minutes. Add the sugar and continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating between each addition and then add the vanilla.

Turn the mixer off. Add the flour and then beat just until combined.

Remove the dough, shape it into a disk about 6 inches wide and wrap it securely in plastic wrap. Refrigerate the dough for a minimum of 1 hour.

When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350ºF and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Remove the dough from the fridge and cut it in half. Roll half the dough between two pieces of wax paper until it’s about 1/4-inchthick. Using cookie cutters, cut out your desired shapes and place them roughly 2 inches apart on the cookie sheets. Repeat the rolling and cutting process with the remaining dough.

Refrigerate the cut-out cookies for 15 minutes.

Bake the cookies for 9 to 11 minutes until pale golden, and then transfer them to a rack to cool completely. Frost and decorate as desired.

@srapp93