Feb. 28 Edition of The Merciad

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VOL. 91 NO. 13

SoMar showcases ‘Cycles and Circles’ PAGE 2

Online poll results How excited are you for Spring Break?

8: Campus Ministry takes students to Pittsburgh for Jubilee 11: ‘Rigoletto’ combines Civic Orchestra and Opera program 14: Men’s hockey named regular season champs Mark Santillano photo

Can’t wait to go on vacation! (54%) Excited to see my family/pets. (23%) It’s already spring break? (15%) Sad. I’m staying in Erie. (8%)

This week’s

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What’s your favorite Mini II holiday?

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NEWS

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Mark Santillano photo

Mercyhurst dance students, from left, Dominic Fortunato, Carrie VanOsten and Lucas De Marinis perform with SoMar Dance Works.

‘Cycles and Circles’ of SoMar grace Erie Art Museum stage

By Rebecca Dunphy Staff writer

Local dance company SoMar Dance Works circled and cycled its way through the first performances of the year at the Erie Art Museum on Feb. 23-24.

Directed by Mercyhurst Dance professors Mark and Solveig Santillano, “Cycles and Circles” was a performance unlike anything the company has done before as it was performed in the round with audience members seated in a circle.

This set-up was decided upon when the directors realized that the museum’s stage was not large enough to accommodate all of their dancers.

“We were looking at this beautiful room in the art museum and we were thinking how could we do this and not be on the stage and give everyone a decent seat,” said Mark Santillano. “If we’re in a round, everyone has a front row seat.”

First-year company member Jenna Swartz said before the event that she believed that this gave audiences a more intimate experience.

“It will be much more up close and personal than most dance concerts people have probably been to,” said Swartz.

“Overall, I think it will be a very diverse concert that will show the creativity and artistry of SoMar Dance Works.”

The round set-up led to the development of the show’s circular theme.

“We like to do theme-based concerts whenever we can,” said Solveig Santillano. “This led us to an exploration of what is circular and what is cyclic.”

Under this theme, the company premiered their rendition of the famous opera, Carmina Burana.

Other pieces included a tribute to the four seasons, featuring Igor Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring, Antonio Vivaldi’s Winter, and a number of pool inflatables.

“SoMar is pretty infamous for putting their own, quirky stamp on everything they do, and this is no exception,” said company member Carrie VanOsten.

“There’s a huge variety, and hopefully something for everybody to enjoy.”

A selection of SoMar classics were also performed by the 15-dancer company.

Company dancers include 12 Mercyhurst dance majors, an alumna, and the Santillanos.

Other performing artists included Tim Theisen and Andy Hasenpflug.

Theisen, the composer and musician, created two original pieces for this performance, one of which was a solo danced by his wife.

“We are excited to work with him,” said Solveig Santillano. “We have used his music before, but this is the first time he has written a piece specifically for us” Hasenpflug and company member Swartz also lent their musical talents, playing the Rite of Spring and Winter, respectively.

“We like to work with live musicians whenever we can,” said Mark Santillano.

Those who missed “Cycles and Circles” or who want to see SoMar Dance Works perform again have the opportunity to watch the company at Water Dance on April 14 in downtown Erie.

SoMar will be joining various other artists from throughout Erie in the nationwide performance campaign for conservation.

Mark Santillano photo

Sarah Taylor and Dominic Fortunato perform.

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

NEWS

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Contributed photos

ABOVE: Eliza Kisiel and Ryan Prescott show their research poster.

AT LEFT: Taylor Tharp, left, and Eliza Kisiel show one of two posters.

Criminal Justice students present at conference in New Orleans

By Rebecca Dunphy Staff writer

When most people think of New Orleans at Mardi Gras, they think of colored beads, elaborate floats and parties on every street.

But for three Mercyhurst criminal justice majors, it meant their first opportunity to attend a criminal justice-related conference.

Professor EmmaLeigh Kirchner, Ph.D., accompanied Eliza Kisiel, Ryan Prescott and Taylor Tharp to the 55th Annual Meeting of the American Criminal Justice Sciences from Feb. 13-17 at Hilton New Orleans.

Kirchner attends the conference annually, but this was her first time bringing a group of students.

“They all wanted to go to some

sort of conference,” said Kirchner. “So I told them if they put in the work and do the research, I would take them.”

The students were able to join the more than 2,000 criminal justice enthusiasts who attended the event, including other students, professors and professionals in the field.

“They met with law enforcement professionals from throughout the country and some criminal investigators,” said Kirchner. “I think they learned the importance of networking.”

This certainly seemed to be the case for Tharp.

“Overall, the conference taught me the importance of meeting other professionals outside of our university because making those connections not only ben-

efits us as a student but will also benefit us when we are professionals working in the criminal justice field,” said Tharp.

In addition to networking, the students also had the opportunity to present research of their own at the pictorial showcase.

At this two-hour event, 115 posters were presented and discussed, two of which were from Mercyhurst.

The poster entitled “Media Snags and Public Perception of the Police” was created by Kisiel, Prescott and Jacob Chichester, who did not attend the conference.

“As a group, we kind of came up with it (the idea) on the spot,” said Kisiel. “We knew we wanted to do something in regards to police perception in the public.”

Thus the group’s idea was born.

Kisiel also accompanied Tharp in her research, which culminated in the poster “‘No More’ Attention? An Examination of the No More Domestic Violence Campaign.”

“We researched how effective the campaign was in spreading awareness through social media sites such as, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram,” said Tharp. “I had recently taken a Psychology course on Antecedents of Aggression with Dr. Barron. This topic seemed to draw psychology and criminal justice together perfectly, which is why I was interested in conducting research on the ‘No More’ campaign.”

Kirchner was pleased to say that she received numerous compliments on their posters and

projects.

Beyond presenting their research, students also had the opportunity to explore the local area, including the Museum of Death, a local police station, the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. Also keeping with the spirit of Mardi Gras, students attended various parades.

Overall, students seem to have enjoyed their experience.

Both Kisiel and Tharp said they “would love to go to another conference.”

“I would highly recommend anyone who is considering attending a conference in the future to go,” said Tharp. “It is an experience that let you represent Mercyhurst while also making connections that will benefit you after you complete your degree.”

Court rules on gerrymandered map

By Anthony Miller Staff writer

The Pennsylvania State Supreme Court recently struck down the state’s congressional district map in a massive blow to gerrymandering. But what is gerrymandering, and what is the impact of the court’s decision?

Every state is broken down into districts, and each district elects one person to the House of Representatives, 435 in total. Gerrymandering affects the way in which those districts are drawn.

“Gerrymandering is drawing district lines to achieve a very specific political purpose,” Joseph Morris, Ph.D., Political Science department chair and director of the Mercyhurst Center for Applied Politics, said.

There are three different kinds of gerrymandering. The

first kind is racial gerrymandering, which is, as Morris explains, where “the district lines are drawn in order to ensure that people of a certain ethnicity are either inside or outside of a district.”

The second kind is pro-incumbent gerrymandering. Morris defines this type of gerrymandering as “where the district lines are drawn to favor a sitting member of Congress.”

The third kind of gerrymandering, as Morris explains, is partisan gerrymandering, “where the districts are drawn to favor one party over another.”

It goes without saying that all kinds of gerrymandering are discriminatory, which is part of the reason why the Pennsylvania Supreme Court recently struck down the state’s district map.

This decision will have an incredible effect on politics at a

local, state and federal level.

“This is really big, not only for Pennsylvania politics, but for national politics,” Morris said.

Part of the reason why this is such a massive decision is the impact it will have on the 2018 midterms later this year. The fight for control of the House of Representatives is going to be a tight one this year.

“Democrats will need to pick up 24 seats that are currently held by Republicans to win the House of Representatives,” said Morris. “Historically, when we’ve had a president with an approval rating of below 50 percent, the president’s party loses 36 seats. This decision makes it even more likely that Democrats will win the House of Representatives.”

On a state level, the current Pennsylvania delegation to Congress consists of 13 Republicans

and five Democrats, despite Democrats having the edge in voter registration. This imbalance is part of what the court’s decision hopes to address.

This decision also carries an immense weight for local politics as well. Under the current map, Erie County has been split into two. With the map drawn by the Supreme Court, Erie County will be united into a single district once again.

As Morris explains, there are two different schools of thought about Erie County being split up.

“One says that having Erie split into the 3rd and 5th congressional districts was good, because it meant two representatives had to pay attention to Erie County,” said Morris. “The other school of thought says that is not the situation we want, and that neither member of

Congress paid enough attention to Erie County because it was only half a county.

“I think over time, we’ll find out if this was good for Erie or bad for Erie, but I am on the side that thinks this will be very good for our community,” he said.

More than anything, Morris is hopeful that this could have a positive impact on the state of political discourse in modern America.

“I think one of the most important contributing factors to our divisive political discourse today is gerrymandering,” said Morris. “This decision could have an immense impact on our political discourse. Competitive districts create moderate candidates, and if that is the case, we could start to see the possibility of compromise once again in D.C., and that’s what we’re lacking today.”

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Merciad IN A MINUTE

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Meet your MSG reps

A hand in the change If you would like to add your handprint to the Psych Club’s Diversity Art Project but cannot attend the Psych Club meeting, club members will be in the Psych Building on March 1 to add more handprints.

Check back after break for school senators.

Sign up for LT3 retreat Any student that has participated in a Carpe Diem Retreat and is still a current Mercyhurst student is invited to the Live the Third (LT3) retreat.

The retreat will be at the Miller Estate in North East on March 23-24.

The cost is $10.

Email Greg Baker or sign up in Campus Ministry if interested.

Make sure that you vote in the MSG President and Vice Presidential elections.

Voting ends Thursday at noon.

Environmentalist Cousteau speaks about natural world

By Marina Boyle

Study abroad trips released The 2018-19 FacultyStudent Academic Travel (FSAT) and Mercyhurst in Ireland program offerings have been released.

Trips include the Mercyhurst Dungarvan Experience as well as travels to Italy and Greece, Argentina, Japan, Peru, and Northern Ireland.

For more details, students can go to the Office of Study Abroad in Preston 101 or 105 or email studyabroad@ mercyhurst.edu.

Poet to kick off Literary Festival The annual Mercyhurst Literary Festival will be kicked off on March 1 at 8 p.m. with a presentation in Taylor Little Theatre by poet Philip Metres.

Metres is professor of English and director of the Peace, Justice and Human Rights program at John Carroll University.

The presentation, the first of three events, is free to attend.

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

Staff Writer

Environmentalist Céline Cousteau gave an inspiring talk at the Performing Arts Center on Feb. 26, rounding off the MSG Speaker Series.

Cousteau, a social activist and documentary director, producer and presenter, shared her love of the Earth with the passionate MU crowd.

Cousteau’s message was clear: “What we put out in the world is what we get back. Find solutions, because we can always find problems.”

Cousteau was here to discuss her environmental work and to mobilize another group of young people to join her cause.

She stressed the importance of protecting our environment for our fellow species and future generations.

Originally from Los Angeles, Cousteau is a world traveler and adventurer who has worked and advocated everywhere from the Brazilian Amazon to the Himalayas.

Her most recent multimedia project and campaign centers around the challenges facing the indigenous tribes of the Vale do Javari.

The “Tribes on the Edge” documentary is an example of her cause-focused content and work.

Cousteau reminded the crowd, “Do not assume what you see in front of you is the whole story.

Think of split level, so you can see what is above and below. You need to look at all perspectives, understand the full system and see all parts of the picture.”

Marina Boyle photo

Céline Cousteau left the Mercyhurst audience on Monday night by saying “when you are barefoot walking in the mountains, you can only be there, keep breathing.”

She discussed further the issues of human behavior, asking everyone to constantly make a change in how they see the world.

As the granddaughter of legendary ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau, Céline Cousteau has also explored much of the depths of our seas.

She spoke about her recent work in the Gulf of Mexico, and issues such as traceability, bycatch and overfishing there.

Speaking on the influence of her grandfather on her work and life, she said, “He had a great curiosity. He taught me teamwork.”

Cousteau also discussed her exposure to environmentalism at a very young age, and the role of the women in her family who shaped her view.

Her work has involved filming people from around the globe who live and connect with the environment in an authentic way.

Céline Cousteau showed a clip of “Tribes on the Edge” to the audience and discussed the plight of the Amazonians massacred for trying to prevent the destruction of the rainforest they love.

The project has taken almost a decade to complete and will be shown at a United Nations forum in April and other film festivals in June.

“This film is a beacon. We are incredibly privileged, so we are the ones who have to keep getting up when we get knocked down. They are fighting for their lives every single day. I want to tell their story, not sell their story. When you

stand up and realize ‘I did this,’ it’s incredible,” Céline Cousteau said.

Finally, she spoke of how nature is integral to our existence, saying, “My existence is acknowledged by nature, and I feel so small because of it. That’s an amazing perspective. You are not apart from nature — you are a part of nature.”

The talk concluded with a Q&A session in which Céline Cousteau discussed her future plans, including a 10 part series for the Discovery Channel with her father and brother.

She left the audience with a simple message: “Understand that there is a much bigger world out there. We need to do better and put systems in place. Life is about finding alliances and allies.”

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, February 28, 2018

NEWS

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LAM gets investment advice

By Bernard Garwig Sports editor

In a joint effort, the Laker Asset Management (LAM) club and the Mercyhurst Competitive Intelligence Club co-hosted an informative overview on the stock market Feb. 20. Titled “Stock Market Nuts and Bolts” and presented by financial adviser Joellen Nelson of Edward Jones, the event saw 43 people pack into the Center for Academic Engagement Boardroom to attend the presentation.

Nelson, who has worked with the Competitive Intelligence Club in the past, told attendees the dos and don’ts of investing.

She covered a wide variety of topics from the 2008 recession to the implications of today’s technology-heavy stock market.

Her main message to students, though, was to be disciplined, to Bernard Garwig photo have a wide portfolio of stocks and to invest early.

From left, financial adviser Joellen Nelson poses with Laker Asset Management club members Arseniy Nelson’s background was not Sklyarov, Cleary Johnson, Garek Schultz, Gabrielle Procter, Jeremy Wu, Breanna Mysyk and Adrian Larsen. always in finance. She attended Lehigh University and received ophy, and decided to make a mid- the larger Mercyhurst community knows more about markets that a bachelor’s degree in Industri- life career switch.” in on its message and goals. maybe hasn’t heard of LAM.” al Engineering and worked for Since then, Nelson has worked “We were trying to spark some Each Tuesday, LAM memmany years within the field. with a variety of people and has interest in the club, show them bers meet to discuss the current “After 13 years, I found I was spoken to groups ranging from that there’s people out there, that events of the week and their fimore interested in investing and Boy Scouts to AARP members. there’s positions out there that nancial implications. finances just from doing my own She currently operates from an are what we are trying to teach in About 30 people are members investing,” said Nelson. “I was a office in North East. the club,” said LAM board mem- of the club. client of Edward Jones. I liked The main purpose of bringing ber Arseniy Sklyarov. “We want“We’re encouraging students to their business, I liked their philos- in Nelson was for LAM to bring ed to see if there was anyone that come,” said LAM president Adri-

an Larsen. “We invite everyone from the Mercyhurst community to come and join our meetings.

We are trying to be very engaging at our club meetings.”

In addition to this discussion forum, members also have an opportunity to present thematic research that they are conducting outside the club.

In these presentations, students recommend what stocks they feel LAM should be investing its $100,000 worth of school endowment into. To date, LAM has invested about a quarter of the total.

LAM is looking for students of all majors who are willing to learn about the stock market.

The club is continuing with its thematic research breaking down the different sectors of the stock market by industry to paint a clearer picture of where LAM’s money should go for maximum returns.

As Nelson’s talk highlighted, anyone can and should invest in their future.

“Everyone has a portfolio. Everyone has investments,” said Sklyarov.

The Laker Asset Management club meets Tuesdays at 7 p.m. in the Center for Academic Engagement. They also operate a Facebook group (Laker Asset Management) and an Instagram (@laker_asset_management).

Marz discusses ABCDs This weekend’s of personal branding STUDENT GOVERNMENT

By Lauren Abbott Opinion editor

On Feb. 22, local entrepreneur and business leader Mary Marz presented to students on how to successfully transition from college life to the corporate world.

Marz owns a style and image consulting business in Erie, called Perfectly Poised.

She also works at Erie Insurance as the director of Change Management. Her talk centered around the ABCDs of personal imagery and how focusing on these four aspects can make the transition from college life to the corporate world easier.

Zachary Abodalo is a senior Fashion Merchandising major and president of the Mercyhurst University Fashion Council, which sponsored the event.

He explained the importance of bringing such a speaker to campus.

“A lot of people don’t know the truth about stuff like this. They always hear it from their professors, and I think it’s good to get it from an outside perspective,” Abodalo said.

Marz has worked for Erie Insurance for more than 15 years, and has been promoted four

times since starting there.

She also emphasized the importance of building your personal brand.

“What made me so successful was building my personal brand,” Marz said.

When she was 30 years old, Marz was the youngest person to become a director at Erie Insurance.

The ABCDs of Personal Imagery are key areas that Marz identified that are critical to developing and culminating a personal brand for the corporate world.

These areas are appearance, behavior, communication and digital footprint.

The first key area was appearance. She stressed how important first impressions are and the impact that they can have. Marz addressed the concept “dress for success” and dressing for the job you want to have.

She also pointed out that paying attention to detail, being well groomed, standing tall and making eye contact are all aspects that can make someone seem more confident and leave a better impression in an interview.

The second area was behavior.

Marz defined behavior as “the sum total of all your actions” and

emphasized that the most important part of our behavior is our attitude.

She said that developing an “attitude of gratitude” is the most important thing you can do to make yourself a better choice for a job or a promotion. She explained that skills can be taught, but that a person’s attitude is one of the most important aspects of an individual.

“I hire for attitude every single time. I can teach you everything else,” Marz said.

The C in the ABCDs encompasses communication — written, verbal and nonverbal. She explained that being able to express yourself in a clear, concise way, especially in emails, is an invaluable tool in the corporate world.

The final area was digital footprint. With today’s technologically plugged-in world, Marz suggested doing a social media audit to ensure that everything on your social media pages would be acceptable for an employer to look at.

When asked why these steps can be helpful to students, Marz said, “If you are thinking about your personal brand and being authentic to you, it can only be beneficial.”

campus events It’s spring break! There are no SAC/MAC events this weekend. Have a fun and safe break, Lakers.

MERCYHURST CAMPUS

CRIME LOG Feb. 15: Drug paraphernalia at 3809 Briggs Ave. Feb. 15: Controlled substances at 3810 Briggs Ave. Feb. 22: Theft in Preston Hall.

Feb. 23: Drug paraphernalia at 3907 Briggs Ave.

FEATURES

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

Ask for Mia’s advice at: askmia.merciad@gmail.com ******************* Dear Mia, I am writing to you in regards to my roommate situation. You see, my roommate, Snowmanda, always seems to watch my every move. For instance, when I walk in or out of the room she is in, she watches me.

As I talk to her, she looks at me the entire time. Even when I begin to eat her food off the plate in front of her, she watches me. These are only a few examples of Snowmanda’s disturbingly close watch over my personal whereabouts. While I know how rare this behavior must sound, it has really made living with her a deep struggle.

Sincerely, Agitated Aggie

Dear Agitated Aggie, It makes sense that she’s looking at you the entire time you talk to her. That’s what happens during a conversation. It also sounds like she’s staring you down as you take food off of her plate and not your own? But if those are just a few examples, she probably has a close watch on you in other weird situations. Does she watch you in a creepy “I’m going to murder you way” or in an admiring “you’re so cool I can’t stop watching you” way? You should be straight up with her and see why she keeps watching you so you can tell her that it’s making your living arrangements a struggle (and if it’s making you uncomfortable). If you don’t make it clear to Snowmanda, the constant watching may never go away. If the situation stays the same, contact your RA and tell them what is happening. It may be beneficial for one of you to move out to a new place.

Sincerely,

Mia

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

How to: Fight midterm despair

By Lauren Rogus Staff writer

It is that time of year again, Lakers — the time when students and professors alike begin to realize that the end of the year is readily approaching.

It seems to get harder to get up for 8 a.m. classes and even harder not to binge-watch Netflix the entire night. Some Lakers have found a way to beat this time of year by doing a variety of routines and practices.

Morgan Wangler, a senior double major in Early Childhood and Special Education, has not felt “senioritis” yet, as she is student teaching — a fairly significant change in routine for this semester. The change from learning in a classroom to teaching in a classroom has kept her alert and on top of her work.

“The thought of graduating in May doesn’t feel real. I can’t believe it is coming so soon,” Wangler said.

Wangler seems to be preventing senioritis very well. There are students in other years, however, who are facing the difficulties brought with mid-semester.

Sophomore Lauren Golonka and freshman Joanne Pringle, both double majors in Early Childhood and Special Education, feel that it is getting harder to concentrate.

Golonka has been struggling to fight off procrastination and exhaustion.

“I give into the sophomore slump,” Golonka said.

Golonka is not alone in her struggles. Pringle and other students are also fighting the stress.

“When I feel the freshman funk, I go home,” Pringle said.

Some students, however, have found ways to avoid the freshman funk, sophomore slump, junior jam and senioritis by simply sticking to a routine.

Nicole Rudnicki, sophomore double major in Early Childhood and Special Education, transferred to Mercyhurst and has found that loving her major helps motivate her studies.

“Being in a major I care about makes it easier to care,” said Rudnicki. “Knowing what to expect more by having the professors last semester (and) getting into a routine helps to prevent getting off topic.”

The experience that Rudnicki had helped her avoid sophomore slump.

Joel Basenback, freshman Biology major, makes sure he gets enough sleep. By not staying up late and waking up early the next day, he is able to avoid being stuck in the freshman funk.

Basenback also tries to get his homework done early in the morning, allowing him more free

time in the evening to rest and go to bed early.

Meghan Komendarek, freshman double major in Early Childhood and Special Education, keeps herself busy.

“The best way to avoid the freshman funk is staying busy with sports and keeping time for school work,” Komendarek said.

Gabrielle Feig and Sonya Jones, junior Anthropology majors, try to stay away from their apartment when they are having trouble finding motivation. Trying to study is much easier if they are out and about rather than on their bed taking a nap.

The Hammermill Library, the Grotto Commons and the Mercyhurst Bookstore are all awesome places to go for quality study time.

Erin Jenkins, junior Art Therapy and Art Education double major, said that trying to stay involved and focusing on good things and the future keep her going.

As a consensus, students identified their favorite homework-alternative activities to be online shopping, binge-watching Netflix, YouTube or TV, participating in campus activities and working out, whether for a sports team or simply to avoid doing work.

It is good to know, however, that not all Lakers have checked out for the semester. Try to support fellow students throughout the end of this semester.

SALT unlocks financial literacy and knowledge

By Anthony Miller

Staff writer

SALT: Education Unlocked, Dreams Unlimited, is a program that not many students fully understand.

While many students have heard of SALT or have used it in an iMU class, very few have dug into the program to find out what it really is and how useful it can be.

In a nutshell, SALT offers students information on how to manage finances and loans, giving advice on how to manage student loans in particular.

“SALT is the financial literacy program provided by American Student Assistance, which has a partnership with Mercyhurst,” Jeff Lasky, Student Financial Services Counselor, said.

There are multiple parts making up SALT. Each part deals with educating students about financ-

es, as well as any topics related to finances.

“There are four main parts to SALT. The sections are: Managing Your Money, How to Pay for School, Repaying your Student Loan Debt and a Career Services section,” Lasky said.

SALT offers courses, videos and even e-books on financial literacy. Other features include free courses, tips for job searching and an expansive scholarship search.

Additionally, SALT assists alumni, providing tools on how to pay off student loans. It gives information on various methods of repayment and even offers forms, with one being an income-based repayment form.

By hosting these services, SALT continues to be important for students even after graduation, when they have moved on to a full time job.

“After you graduate, SALT will be there for alumni,” Lasky said.

SALT also intends to hold events on campus each month in order to improve awareness and knowledge of the program and all it offers.

“We hold at least one event per month,” said Lasky. “The event for February is on the 28th. For it, there will be a table set up in the Student Union and we will be talking to students about SALT.” The March event will be SALT presentations in classes, as well as at various club and organization meetings around campus.

In April, SALT will be set up at the career fair, to tell graduating seniors about what SALT can do for them. SALT will also be reaching out to incoming freshmen, giving advice on how to be smart with paying for college and taking out loans from the beginning.

Students can log into SALT to see the program for themselves by going to www.saltmoney.org/ 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

FEATURES

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

PAGE 7

Moore advocates equity

By Kristian Biega

Staff writer

Unity Week is a time for Mercyhurst students to come together to recognize the diversity of our campus and how we can use our individual backgrounds, privileges and gifts to help those around us.

On Feb. 22, as part of the Unity Week festivities, Mercyhurst’s Multicultural Activities Council (MAC) invited Eddie Moore Jr., Ph.D., to speak to students on the topic of “Diversity, Power, Privilege and Leadership.”

Moore is one of the nation’s top educators, motivational speakers and experts on diversity in America. He is the founder and current director of The Privilege Institute (TPI) and The National White Privilege Conference (WPC) that seek to provide opportunities for research, education and collaboration around what privilege is and how it can be used to create change in American culture.

Moore assured the students that his talk would be entertaining and educational, but it would also make people uncomfortable.

He believes that the feeling of discomfort indicates that something is wrong and needs to be either talked about or changed.

“I’m not saying you have to agree with some of the things out there — I’m not trying to convert you in any way,” Moore said. “I am saying it is important to have some working knowledge of them.”

One of Moore’s main points of the evening was the fact that the United States is changing quickly and dramatically in the composi-

tion of its people, in its ideas and in the awareness of these differences. He reminded the students that they are no longer growing up in the same age and culture as generations before us. Therefore, we are in need of new skills in our everyday lives.

“If you don’t have diversity skills, it is going to be hard for you to be employed in the 21st century. That’s just a fact,” Moore said.

Understanding the difference between equality and equity was an essential portion of Moore’s talk. He noted that equity is what society should be striving for in order to give more help to those who need it. For example, providing sign language interpreters in classes for those with a hearing disability is not giving special treatment, but allowing everyone to experience things in the same way.

Moore discussed privilege as having more rights or abilities than others and pointed out that these can be based on various aspects of who people are. He especially wanted to clarify that he is not condemning privilege, because he knows that it is a societal foundation that can be used for good when there is proper education involved.

“I’m not asking you to give up the power and privilege,” said Moore. “I am asking you to learn about it and its inner workings so that by understanding, we can do some really great stuff.”

He went on to ask why Americans have this innate prejudice.

He argued that it is because of the way the institutions of the United States were founded and

what Americans have been taught as children. Moore explained that children are influenced most by things they are taught between birth and 5 years old. If the foundation of a person is built on misunderstanding and hate, it can take a lifetime to undo these biases or negative thoughts toward a certain way of life or group of people.

Even though it can take years to reverse or mend prejudices or hurtful uses of privilege, Moore encouraged everyone to use his program’s 21-day challenge to make a small change in their lives to continuously improve their awareness of diversity and acceptance.

“If at this time next year, you are at the same level as you are right now, that is on you. There is no reason you can’t do some growing around this issue,” Moore said.

The general consensus was a hopeful outlook and support for the changing culture for women and people of color, but the agreement was that the U.S. still has far to go.

“It is part of our job to understand why people are acting in certain ways, not to be degrading but to be helpful,” said Moore.

“Now it’s on you if you want to change.”

Moore concluded his talk stating that people often ask if he is optimistic about America’s future.

“No, I am not optimistic or pessimistic. I am ‘pissedimistic,’” said Moore. “For me that means being hopeful and optimistic about the Kristian Biega photo future, but I am working hard to Eddie Moore Jr., Ph.D., spoke on “Diversity, Power, Privilege and get things done about it.”

Leadership” as part of Unity Week at Mercyhurst.

C U LT U R E C O R N E R

Cultural understanding with diversity

By Marina Boyle Staff writer

Contributed photo

Natalia Krivosheeva, a native of Kazan, Russia, is a Fulbright Scholar at Mercyhurst, teaching classes in Russian culture and language.

Natalia Krivosheeva, Fulbright Scholar, is both a student and a professor at Mercyhurst University this year. She is teaching Russian culture and language classes and is also taking courses so that she can learn more about the American way of life.

Originally from Kazan, Russia, Krivosheeva came to the United States with the Fulbright International Educational Exchange.

This is a program for students, scholars and teachers.

As a participant in the Fulbright program, Krivosheeva’s task while in Erie is to educate Mercyhurst students about her own Russian heritage, culture and language, while simultaneously learning about American culture through participation in classes and other events, either on campus or in Erie.

Because she grew up in an area of Russia that is relatively Euro-

pean, Krivosheeva felt fairly comfortable moving to the United States and studying in Erie. While there were some necessary cultural adjustments, it was not overwhelming.

One major adjustment that she had to make was in regard to the education system. Education in America is viewed in a very different way than it is in Russia, which took some getting used to.

Krivosheeva was extremely excited for the opportunity to learn about American culture and, through that new lens, gain a new understanding of her own experiences in Russia.

“I learned a lot about my own country by being here because I began to think about it in a different way,” said Krivosheeva.

“My students teach me as well by showing me other ways to say things and to use new methods.”

For Krivosheeva, there is a lot of diversity to be found in the Mercyhurst community.

“I feel like it’s not only Amer-

ican,” said Krivosheeva. “I have students and friends from everywhere.”

Krivosheeva has particularly enjoyed the cultural festivals that take place over the weekends in Erie and the SAC/MAC events that have a cultural focus. For example, she recently took part in an event called “Dine With the World,” which allowed students to try the cuisine of other cultures and to learn about eating habits across the globe. She represented Russia with a traditional meal.

“America is a country of diversity,” Krivosheeva said.

For Krivosheeva, this means different experiences and innovation. She sees diversity as something new—an openness in viewing the world.

“Diversity means having options and being able to choose what you want and what you need,” said Krivosheeva. “It’s how we learn and what you have to open your eyes to in order to understand the world.”

FEATURES

PAGE 8

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Contributed photo

Students from Campus Ministry attended the Jubilee Conference in Pittsburgh, where they learned ways to incorporate faith into their daily work.

Students jubilant in faith

By Nick Mathur Staff writer

Mercyhurst University Campus Ministry attended the annual Jubilee Conference this past weekend, Feb. 23-25. The conference took place in Pittsburgh at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.

This was the sixth year that Campus Ministry has attended Jubilee. There were 28 Mercyhurst students attending, as well as chaperones Jenell Patton, assistant director of Campus Ministry, and Cariel Lewis, assistant director of Residence Life.

“This is the biggest group we’ve had attend the conference,” Patton said.

The Jubilee Conference is a national event held annually in Pittsburgh. The Coalition for Christian Outreach (CCO), a ministry encouraging college students to serve Jesus throughout their lives, hosts the conference.

Jubilee’s mission is to help students develop ways of incorporating their faith in Jesus into any career field.

“In the past, people used to think that if they wanted to be a Christian doing ministry, they had to go into full-time positions like becoming a missionary,” said Patton. “This conference was designed to help students answer the question, ‘How can you be a person of faith regardless of what major you selected?’”

The conference is broken into four chapters: Creation, Fall, Restoration and Redemption. Each chapter had a large gathering with speakers and praise and worship, followed by various types of workshops.

The main gatherings had speakers from across the country who

Coalition for Christian Outreach photo

PHOTO ABOVE: Mercyhurst student Chandler Brandetsas attended several workshops at the annual Jubilee Conference in Pittsburgh.

PHOTO AT RIGHT: Mary Jaskowak, ’17, and Rebecca Harms post with one of the worship leaders after the conference.

gave lectures on various topics, ranging from incorporation of faith into a career as an artist to how the life of a Christian should be impacted by redemption.

Students also had the opportunity to break into smaller groups and attend workshops on various topics, including ones titled “Learning for the Love of God,” “Nursing: The Reality of Healthcare in a Fallen World,” “Faith and Law” and many others.

“All of the main speakers have written books on whatever topic they present,” Patton said.

Another activity held at Jubilee is a book fair where students can find literature on incorporating faith into one’s career and life.

“There are a lot of knowledgeable people there who will help

Contributed photo

you find a book that best suits what you’re looking for,” Ryan King, senior Intelligence major, said.

Various organizations, charities and camps also come and set up booths for students to visit. This enables students to learn about job and volunteer opportunities that may not be well known. Ultimately, this helps students to both fulfill Jubilee’s mission and make professional connections.

Throughout the weekend, the students also participate in recreational activities. One of these includes a praise and worship session, in which students can praise God through song and dance.

“They had a gospel choir this year, and it was absolutely beautiful,” said Rebecca Harms, senior

Accounting and Business and Competitive Intelligence double major.

Attending the Jubilee Conference has given Mercyhurst students the opportunity to grow closer to their peers.

“You get to know people on a much deeper level than you do on campus,” said King. “That’s one of the things I really like about Jubilee.”

Jubilee has helped several Mercyhurst students grow in their faith throughout their time in college. This includes Harms, who has attended the conference for the past three years.

“In my sophomore year, I had just started getting back into my faith,” said Harms. “Jubilee helps so much to push you out of your

comfort zone and tackle things with your faith you’ve been hiding from or haven’t thought of.”

Jubilee has also given Mercyhurst students insight into how they can incorporate their faith into any career field they enter.

“I now know that there’s ways to do ministry without having ‘ministry’ in your job title,” said Shelby Cameron, senior Public Health and Social Health Sciences double major. “That’s really encouraging as a young Christian.”

The impact of the Jubilee Conference extends far beyond a single weekend.

“I have grown so much in my faith since I first attended the conference, and it is still leaving a huge impact on my life,” Harms said.

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

FEATURES

PAGE 9

Mitchell Marsh photo

One of Rhonda Blount’s favorite parts of working at the Grotto Commons is having the opportunity to get to know students and learn about their lives.

Who’s behind the smile?

By Chelsea Guida Photo editor

Rhonda Blount, known to nearly every Laker as just Rhonda, has worked in the Grotto Commons Dining Hall for nine years. She, along with many of the other dining staff, has the ability to make students feel welcome from the moment they enter Mercyhurst as freshman.

Blount takes the time to learn the names of every person that enters the Grotto Commons.

She also tries to learn about each student’s life. She engages in conversation, asking thoughtful ques-

tions — and yet, most students know little about her.

Blount was born and raised in Maine, moving to California at age 19. She lived there for over a decade, and then settled in the Erie area after having children. Her favorite part of being at Mercyhurst is getting to know students.

“I enjoy getting to know their names and getting to know them,” she said.

Blount’s ability to remember names is incredible, considering that every year there are approximately 700 new freshman introduced. She makes a game out of remembering them.

“If I get it wrong enough, I will eventually get it right,” she said.

Outside of work, Blount enjoys going to the athletic events on campus. She particularly enjoys the Findley Lake Regatta, the hockey games and any other events where she can show her Laker pride. Off campus, she enjoys spending time outdoors. Her favorite place is the Allegheny River, and she loves to go hiking and kayaking and enjoys collecting and re-purposing beach glass.

“I love Rhonda because she is always smiling, and it brightens Mitchell Marsh photo my day,” Amelia Kanonczyk, junior Criminal Justice major, said. Rhonda Blount is always around to greet students with a smile.

Mercyhurst women make history

By Elizabeth Shewan

Staff writer

In March, the Mercy Center for Women will celebrate Women’s History Month with its event “Women Making History.”

Each year, the Mercy Center for Women accepts nominations and selects 12 women from the Erie community who have dedicated themselves to service, particularly in women’s issues. This year, Mercyhurst is represented by two Women Making History: Sister Mary Paul Carioty, RSM, Baldwin desk clerk, and Amy Danzer, director of Assessment.

In the United States, the tradition of celebrating women in some way in the month of March dates back to 1911. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter declared the week of March 8, 1980, to be National Women’s History Week, and in 1987, Congress first declared the month of March to be Women’s History Month, a

tradition that would go on to be repeated into the present.

The Mercy Center for Women, a sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy, is an Erie-based organization “committed to enhancing the dignity of each person (they) serve through healing of body, mind, and spirit,” according to their website.

The center provides housing, education and counseling for homeless women.

Danzer was nominated by Sister Michele Schroeck. Currently the acting liaison for the Sisters of Mercy to the Mercy Hilltop Center and secretary for the Erie County Human Relations Committee, Danzer gives her time and effort to a variety of causes, including working at the House of Mercy, the Mercy Center for the Arts, Mercyhurst’s Child Learning Center and Mercyhurst Prep. She also helped establish a free preschool program in the Little Italy neighborhood of Erie.

Carioty is the desk clerk and adviser to female students of Baldwin Hall. Nominated by Sister Pierre Dembinski, Carioty has been a Sister of Mercy since 1952.

She has also served the Erie community as a teacher and nurse, working in an Erie homeless shelter for 17 years.

Carioty is involved in “Take Back the Site” events in Erie, in which homicide sites in the city are reclaimed for nonviolence via a prayer service with the family and community.

“I never thought I’d match up with some of the women that do this,” said Carioty. “I feel honored to be with them.”

Portraits of all 12 women will be on display in the main lobby of Saint Vincent Hospital throughout the month of March.

The formal presentation will take place on March 27 at 7 p.m. in the Elizabeth Shewan photo Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center, and will be open to the Sister Mary Paul Carioty, the beloved Baldwin desk clerk, will be honored along with Amy Danzer during Women’s History Month. public.

PAGE 10

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Congratulations Get your to winning artists brass to in student show this concert

By Steven Martz

Staff writer

The 2017-2018 Juried Student Art Show brought out fantastic work from an array of talented students, thanks to benefactor and Mercyhurst alumna Patricia S. Yahn.

The juror, Alexa Potter, did a wonderful job choosing the artwork to be displayed in this year’s show.

In all, 105 pieces of art were entered into the show by gifted students from across Mercyhurst’s campus.

Potter’s job was to narrow down the entrees. This year, 45 pieces of art were chosen for this exhibit.

Congratulations are in order to

FIRST PLACE: Name: Evan Hartono Year: Sophomore Major: Studio Art Hometown: Jakarta, Indonesia Title: “Detritus” Medium: Assemblage List price: $200

SECOND PLACE: Name: Curtis Waidley Year: Junior Major: Graphic Design Hometown: Erie, PA Minor: Photography Title: “East 10th Street Garage” Medium: Photography No list price

THIRD PLACE: Name: Sarah Van Alstine Year: Junior Hometown: Barton, NY Major: Art Education and English Title: “Sterling Silver” Medium: Drawing No List Price

all of the artists for the extraordinary work and dedication that was put into their works.

The gallery looks wonderful.

Of these 45 works of art, three were chosen and ranked.

In first place was Evan Hartono for his assemblage “Detritus.”

Curtis Waidley ranked second for his photo “East 10th Street Garage.” Sarah Van Alstine ranked third for her drawing “Sterling Silver.”

These three won cash prizes There were also three honorable mentions: Edward Chavis for his drawing “Shady”; Sara Hood for her graphic design work on the “Miss Firecracker Promotion”; and Nicolette Tomani for a photo “Fluorescent Man.”

These three students won a Michael’s gift card so they can keep creating and exploring their craft.

If you would like to see the works for yourself, visit the Cummings Art Gallery located in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.

The installation will be exhibited until March 16.

Hours are Mondays to Fridays, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. It is closed on Wednesdays.

The gallery is also open Saturdays and Sundays, noon- 5 p.m.

The gallery will also be closed for break March 5-11.

To all the fantastic artists out there keep creating, you are all doing a wonderful job.

By Lauren Ganger

Staff writer

On March 26 at 8 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall, the D’Angelo Department of Music will present its first Roche Guest Artist Series performance of the spring semester.

Pittsburgh Brass will present a concert featuring both original works for brass quintet and arrangements of pieces for brass quintet.

In addition, the performers will give a masterclass on March 27 at 12:45 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall.

The masterclass during Student Forum will involve individual brass students such as trumpet and trombone.

The Brass Ensemble will be playing a piece titled, “Die Bankelsangerlieder.”

Members of the brass ensemble are junior Jacob Bechter, trumpet; sophomore Josh Flaherty, trumpet; junior Martin Webster, trombone; Cameron Porter, Euphoni-

um; and Kent Tucker, trombone.

Porter will play a trombone solo.

The masterclass will also have all five members of the Pittsburgh Brass group participating and teaching the students.

The group’s members are Scott Nadelson and Samantha Croach, trumpet; Jason Allison, horn; Sebastian Vera, trombone; and Sam Buccigrossi, tuba.

All of them perform in the River City Brass Band and teach in the greater Pittsburgh area.

On the program will be pieces such as “Four Outings for Brass”

by André Previn, “Suite from Monterregian Hills” by Morely Calvert and Quintet no. 3 by Victor Ewald.

Also on the program will be arrangements for brass quintet of pieces in the musical theater and orchestral repertoire.

As with all Roche Guest Artist performances and masterclasses, both the performance and masterclass will be free and open to the public.

MOVIE REVIEW

‘Every Day’ just mundane

By Sydney Van Leeuwen

Staff writer

In high school, I read the book “Every Day” by David Levithan (2012).

Being a hopeless romantic and a huge John Green fan, I enjoyed every page of the novel, which revolves around a character — named A — who wakes up in a different body every day, never the same person twice and always in love with the same girl, Rhiannon.

Not only is Rhiannon an awesome name, but the concept is really intriguing.

It made me, a very conservative individual, really reconsider the topic of love.

I was excited when I heard that the book was to be made into a movie, and nervous as to how it would turn out.

I dragged my boyfriend along on Saturday morning and sat with hesitant expectation as the theater turned dim and the opening credits rolled.

After about an hour and a half, the lights came back on and I was relatively unmoved by what I had just seen.

Maybe it’s the fact that I had read the book first, or maybe I’ve just seen incredible “chick flicks” in my time, but this one didn’t quite hit the mark.

I wanted to like it, I really did, but I was left feeling kind of unimpressed.

The acting wasn’t great overall (and with a premise like this, a lot of acting was required, so it was likely that some of the talent wasn’t actually going to be all that talented) and the storyline moved way too fast.

One moment, A was in Rhiannon’s boyfriend’s body and then next he was a complete stranger, falling in love with her.

I think the filmmaker spent a bit too much time on the concept of “always waking up as a different person” rather than the actual love story itself.

But perhaps I’m being too harsh.

The most surprising thing about the movie?

My boyfriend loved it.



Wednesday, February 28, 2018

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

PAGE 11

UPCOMING Art sophomore review EVENTS showcases students’ progress over two years Senior Art Thesis March 26-May 17; Reception: April 7, Cummings Art Gallery

By Marina Boyle

Staff writer

The Sophomore Art Review will take place from March 19 to March 23 in the Cummings Art Gallery, located in the lobby of the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.

Sophomore Art students will present their portfolios from their first two years of coursework and showcase their artwork to the wider Mercyhurst community.

Sophomore Review allows students to reflect on their first two years of studies at Mercyhurst.

Students provide a display of what they have created so far, an artist statement of intent and their academic progress to date.

Participant Allison Brusk said that she plans “to use at least one aspect from every studio art class

I have been in” for her Sophomore Review presentation.

“This is an event that gives me a great opportunity to show a variety of media, including ceramic work and graphite drawing,” Brusk said.

“It gives me perspective on how I am doing as an art major, and makes us all think about how we can improve and learn more in the following two years.”

Art students at Mercyhurst are encouraged to pursue individual goals.

This event is only one of the many opportunities they have to showcase and develop their art. They can attend field trips, workshops, exhibitions and club meetings that also challenge students to further their creative potential.

Art majors must maintain a 2.7 GPA and successfully complete

the Review in order to advance to junior year.

Kaitlyn Kirchmeir, who will have eight pieces shown in the event, says, “the Sophomore Review allows us to see where we are in terms of technique.”

“It encompasses the best part of being an art major—learning new ways to express yourself through art,” Kirchmeir said. “I have tried to showcase the different skills that I learned here at Mercyhurst so far.

Kirchmeir said there would be different mediums in her work, including paintings, sketches and renderings.

During the art review, students’ goals and issues are discussed with the faculty review panel, and feedback is provided.

The artist statements of intent allow for reflection on past proj-

ects, and creation of a plan for the next two years and beyond graduation.

Brusk, an Art Therapy and Psychology major, plans to go to grad school.

“The time we have with the art professors is amazing, as they are more than willing to sit down and talk to you one on one,” Brusk said. “This helps me to plan how I will help other people through art and the creative process.”

After successful completion of the foundation year coursework and Sophomore Review, students are free to choose from a greater variety of upper-level courses.

Questions can be directed to Jessica Stadtmueller, Cummings Art Gallery director, who said that everyone is encouraged to view the art on show over the course of the week.

You can Rigolett-go to the opera at the PAC in March

By Megan Lay Staff writer

The D’Angelo Opera Theater is well underway in preparations for its production of “Rigoletto.”

Based on a play by Victor Hugo, Guissepe Verdi’s opera centers around the life of a hunchback court-jester who balances the duality of beauty and evil that exists in the world.

Considered to be one of Verdi’s masterpieces composed toward the end of his career, this opera still resonates with audiences today, studying some of the harshest truths of life.

Extremely gritty and exciting, “Rigoletto” delighted and shocked audiences at its premiere in 1851.

The content covered in this opera is very real, and at the time it was shocking to see something dramatic, unlike the content of other operas that focused on love and beauty.

Directed by Louisa Jonason, director of the D’Angelo Opera Theatre for 22 years, she has taken on almost every role in the production of past operas.

Even though a three act opera is a lot to undertake, it is an important part of students’ curriculum.

“I am grateful, every day to be doing it. I feel it prepares our students for the professional world and empowers them in many ways.”

Simone Dinnerstein, piano Masterclass April 4, 5-7 p.m., Walker Recital Hall The Met: Cosi fan tutte April 7, 12:55 p.m., Performing Arts Center NTL: Julius Caesar April 8, 12:55 p.m., Performing Arts Center Roche Guest Artist: Cobus du Toit, flute Doreen Lee, piano April 9, 8 p.m., Walker Recital Hall The Met: Luisa Miller April 14, 12:30 p.m., Performing Arts Center Mercyhurst Theatre Program: Doña Rosita the Spinster April 12-14, 7:30 p.m., April 15, 2 p.m., Taylor Little Theatre Mercyhurst Dance: Raw Edges April 20-21, 7 p.m., April 21-22, 2 p.m.

Performing Arts Center

Contributed photo

Victoria McIlvain, ‘17, performs as Gilda, Rigoletto’s daughter, in the production of “Rigoletto.”

With a score of 350 pages of music for 20 different instruments and up to eight vocal parts, Jonathan Moser, instructor of Music and conductor of “Rigoletto,” has had to familiarize himself with the score well in advance of the production.

He then created bowing for each of the string sections to make sure the musicians are moving their bows in unison.

Once they neared the rehearsal process and Moser found out who he would be working with, he was able to start piecing the big picture of the orchestra to-

gether.

The process of collaborating with multiple moving parts to put a production together of this scale surely takes organization and strength.

Moser said, “By production week, March 18-25, we will have worked through the whole opera three times with the singers.”

“Rigoletto” is three acts in length and includes some of the most well-known arias, or solos, in operatic history.

Moser said that for his first time conducting an opera, it is very different from conducting a sym-

phony. The final product of any process is usually the most exciting piece.

“It will be incredibly rewarding in the performance since the music is what gives life and emotional intensity to this incredibly dramatic story,” he said.

“Rigoletto” will grace the Mercyhurst D’Angelo Performing Arts Center stage on March 23 at 8 p.m. and March 25 at 2 p.m.

Tickets are $15.50 for adults, $12.50 for seniors and students and $5 for students with a Mercyhurst ID.

MIAC Live: Judy Collins April 26, 7:30 p.m., Performing Arts Center Faculty Recital: Nathan Hess, D.M.A., April 25, 8 p.m., Walker Recital Hall Concert Choir April 27, 7 p.m., Walker Recital Hall

OPINION

PAGE 12

GOOD It’s the last issue before Spring Break. Enjoy the break, Lakers!

BAD Professors are cramming in projects and tests before we go on break.

SAD Café Diem is out of many items on their menu. Be warned: Your favorite food might be out for break.

Breaks oddly spaced for March month, March will seem to stop and start twice.

It would seem more logical for Shewan the two breaks to be combined Staff writer into one, rather than keeping them separate but so close It’s usually not like me to together. complain about getting breaks, I think it would be especially but I can’t help but feel like our nice to have a single longer break schedule for March is a little odd. for students like me, who are far I enjoy mid-semester break as away from home when they’re at much as anyone else, and I’m school. certainly looking forward to it.

I’m from southern Maryland, And I’m looking forward to and I rely on Greyhound buses Easter break as well. to get between home and school, But seeing as mid-semester and it’s a whole day of travel break runs March 5-11, the first when I do undertake it. full week of March, and Easter That’s not even to mention the break goes from March 29 to expense, and I at least live in the April 2, the last week of March, it United States, whereas for some feels a little unbalanced. international students, it’s an And I recognize that even longer and more expensive Mercyhurst can’t exactly undertaking. rearrange the date of either For me, it’s worth the time and Easter or mid-semester time, but money spent traveling to have with a break at either end of the about a week at home between

By Elizabeth

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.

semesters, but I can’t travel home for Easter.

Much as I’d like to spend Easter with my family, it would cost me a lot of money, and I’d spend just about as much time traveling as I would have at home.

If we had just one break, around the time of Easter, it would be possible for me and other students like me to go home for Easter.

But even my friends who live in and around Erie have said they would prefer to have one long break, for convenience and for the sake of not dividing the semester and the month of March more than necessary.

When mid-semester and Easter are so close together, it might be better to combine the two breaks into one. I think this would be popular with most students.

Spring break burdens students with work

“

the correct edits to make the paper as flawless as possible.

Like many This takes until roughly 8:30 Matha people, I am p.m., if I’m lucky.

Editor in chief For me, the rest of my week going out of town is pretty wide open but I know for spring break Do you have senioritis? that is because I am fortunate Are you looking forward to enough to have a light schedule where I am going spring break and basking in the this semester. to get zero, yes, warm Georgia sun?

My left hand, since she is a If you answered yes to any of leftie, Managing Editor Cheyanne zero things on my these questions, don’t worry!

Crum, is subscribing to the same to do list done.”

Your course work is going to QVC deal as me. triple this week!

After missing nearly a week of My life feels like a really bad classes to attend a conference in QVC (Quite Vexing Coursework) to waive the shipping and Seattle, not only does she have infomercial right now. handling fees. last week’s work to complete, Next week is spring break.

But that’s not all! but also this week’s, which There are fewer than 80 days Like many people, I am going includes two exams on top of until graduation. out of town for spring break being sick.

To say I am excited to be done where I am going to get zero, Embedded in all of this is a with my time at Mercyhurst and yes, zero things on my to-do list grad school phone interview. move on to the next chapter of done.

I know we are not alone in our my life is an understatement.

I have another presentation to struggles.

I have had my fair share of give the day after spring break, With the stresses of waiting hard weeks — think 200+ pages so I might as well lump that to hear back from grad school of dense reading for Honors work in with my week’s worth of (which should hopefully happen IDST Cold War freshman year workload. this week or next) and the — but this one is a doozy.

Suck it up, Amber, you might stresses of our course work, I am I have two midterms Thursday say. surprised that my hair has not and a take-home exam due by Just spread your work out started to fall out.

Friday. throughout the week.

The silver lining to all of this is, In a cruel special buy-threeI would love to. However, of course, that I am almost done. get-three-free deal, I also have Tuesdays are strictly for editing This one week, once I get two papers to write and a the Merciad, so that is one full through it, will be a time that I presentation to give. weekday out of the running to will likely look back on with envy All of this is due before spring get work done. once I am drowning in graduatebreak.

Between classes, I am reading level work with a whole new At least my professors decided pages, all 16 of them, and making QVC package heading my way.

By Amber

The Merciad

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

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, February 28, 2018

OPINION

Florida shooting sparks advocacy

By Daniel

Leonard

Staff writer

Whether you graduated from high school recently or a while ago, you probably remember that high school is a time when a child’s focus should be on prom, college acceptance letters or plans after graduation.

For the Parkland students in Florida, that period has been disrupted by tragedy.

Students were hunted. Some were shot. Others witnessed fellow students being shot and faculty bravely taking bullets to protect students and dying in the process.

While many of us would respond to this tragedy by grieving or demanding revenge, survivors of this horrific event have managed to turn their anger into action and demand change from the leaders who run our country.

In a country born from a revolution when people saw something wrong and demanded change from a nation larger and more powerful than them, this act of strength by children should be admired and reinforced by the rest of us.

It is activism in the finest American tradition.

As citizens fighting for election to positions of power, candidates from all parties promise change for the better on a variety of topics while they are seeking votes.

History has demonstrated that once they are elected, when a tragedy like the Parkland shooting occurs, many politicians suggest that it is too soon to

take action, and instead urge the public to focus on “thoughts and prayers.”

The vocal Parkland survivors believe that it is time to act and have rejected the notion that thoughts and prayers are enough.

While thoughts and prayers are important to support the survivors, victims and their families, it should be equally important to ensure that a massacre of innocent civilians doesn’t occur again.

A vital part of elected officials’ jobs is to find potential solutions to problems, consider the outcome of their decisions and take the action to implement the necessary changes to ensure better, safer lives for the citizens.

If our leaders are only able to perform half of their job, developing suggested solutions to problems, and are unable to implement their potential solutions, why wouldn’t we demand a change?

If a doctor could perform only half of a medical procedure that you needed, would you hire them to perform a surgery?

Personally, I would demand a doctor who was better equipped to handle the procedure and motivated to take care of any complications that occur.

So why do we accept politicians who only perform half their job?

One great quality of the United States is that each person is entitled to their own opinions and ensured the freedom to voice those opinions, within reason.

Just look at the variety of political parties that can share and shape our beliefs, while simultaneously dividing us as a country.

Whether you’re a Democrat

or Republican, a member of the Green party or an independent, I am asking each reader to press pause on life once again and consider what you would like to see happen in the United States in the future.

We are nearly two months into 2018, and this is the 18th school shooting since Jan. 1.

The average is three shootings per week. Can’t this one be the last?

We have learned to accept the excuse that it is not time to act, but to hope, think and pray, despite the news of school shootings constantly being reported around us.

But this is America, and each of us is empowered to do more and to support the Parkland survivors.

David Hogg, a survivor of the Parkland/Stoneman Douglas High School massacre, suggested boycotting Florida for spring break to put financial pressure on businesses so that they will lean on legislators to encourage them to take action.

With a tourism industry that rolls in north of $60 billion a year, it might not be the craziest thing to do to use the power of dollars to demand change.

Hogg even suggested that people travel to Puerto Rico instead and help improve the island’s economy as it continues to recover from Hurricane Maria.

Whether or not you agree with this course of action, I urge every reader to take some action and demand change by legislators. At this point, any action would be a place to start.

We have a right to expect legislators to do more than pray to protect us.

Unity week a success

privilege, they also put up fliers and posters encouraging diversity.

While I wasn’t able to attend Miller every event that was held, the Staff writer ones I did go to were wonderful.

They all helped to educate One thing I’ve always loved and inform people on issues about Mercyhurst is the way that while also being engaging and we celebrate diversity. interesting.

The ability to celebrate our I felt that the Privilege Walk differences has always been a was one of the most creative and strength at Mercyhurst. important events of the week.

One of the recent ways in Events like that are a reminder which Mercyhurst has celebrated for a lot of us that not everyone its diversity was with Unity Week, has had the same circumstances which was held from February throughout their lives as we have 19-23. had.

For Unity Week, Mercyhurst I think it’s easy for a lot of us faculty and students not only held to forget about privilege. events all over campus designed For many people, it’s to promote inclusiveness and something that never even educate people on issues such as crosses their mind.

By Anthony

I think that things like Unity Week can educate people on these issues and create a more unified community overall.

Whether it be the big things, such as the Black-Out event, where students wore black as a sign of solidarity and unity, or the small things, like the signs that were put up all over campus encouraging embracing others, I feel that this week has been a huge positive for campus.

I feel that events such as Unity Week are needed.

Unity Week was not only a reminder of the importance of diversity, it was also a call to action to fight discrimination and hatred wherever it arises.

I would love to see similar events held in the future.

PAGE 13

HURST STUDENTS

SPEAK UP We asked:

“What are your Spring Break plans?”

Kyra McCormick, junior Anthropology/ Archaeology and Public History major: “I am going to present at the Mississippi Archaeological Association on my plans for my archaeology senior thesis.”

Matthew Vargas, senior Business Marketing major: “I’m going back to Cleveland, hanging with my family and friends and eating at some great new restaurants in the city. I’m also looking forward to outdoor activities like biking and hiking as the weather warms up.”

Chris Kickel, senior Intelligence Studies major: “Sleeping, playing Xbox, hang out with friends that are home for their spring break, and studying for midterms that are given after break.”

Rachel Hull, junior Political Science and Public Health major: “My spring break plans are to get caught up on a lot of work that I haven’t done and then hang out with my family a lot.”

Compiled by Jordan Pendel

Printing not a big problem

By Paul

Cohen

Contributing writer

There has been a great deal of annoyance regarding the printers, but this may not be as big an issue as people think. I, personally, have had very little trouble with them.

The most trouble that I’ve ever had has been when I try to print from a printer that only prints in black and white, when I have set it to print in color, when I need remember to set it to print in color.

I usually use the printer in the Student Union that is next to the Great Room, which prints in both color and black and white.

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

One time, that printer was out of order.

I did not know that I had printed in color, so I tried the printer upstairs.

That one only prints in black and white, and I had indifferently set it to print in color, so I had to set it to print in black and white and print it again.

That is the most trouble that I have had with the printers.

Other than that, I have had very little trouble. I do run out of money, but getting more printing money is not a problem, other than that it could take up time.

I do not often print in color, which I hear is a little expensive.

I am indifferent, however, to the cost of color, because I do not have to do it too often.

SPORTS

PAGE 14

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

Women’s ice hockey No. 2

By Marco Cicchino Staff writer

After allowing their first conference regular-season title in two seasons slip away over the previous two weekends, Michael Sisti’s squad regrouped quickly and did exactly what was needed in Rochester to keep pace.

Despite the scheduling advantage, a pair of solid 3-0 victories over the Rochester Institute of Technology Tigers at the Gene Polisseni Center this past weekend weren’t enough to get the team that No. 1 spot.

Up the Thruway, 9th-ranked Robert Morris — now in control of their own destiny after salvaging a split in Erie on Feb. 17 — turned Syracuse and Paul Flanagan’s normally stout defense into their second-straight regular-season title.

Still, however, the Lakers’ second seed in the CHA tournament is a solid six-point improvement over last season, the first sub-.500 campaign in program history.

But now maintaining a 9-3-2 mark since the calendar flipped to 2018, this team is dangerous, high-octane and primed for the postseason.

“I’m looking forward to the opportunity of winning the championship, obviously, and playing

with the girls for one last chance is going to be amazing,” said the Lakers’ Celine Frappier.

Game one on Feb. 23 saw Kennedy Blair improve to her first winning record as a Laker, but survive a pipe just 2:45 into the weekend off the stick of the Tigers’ Tori Haywood.

Vilma Tanskanen would do the same later from the right circle, this time off the crossbar.

An 8-6 shot advantage for the visitors didn’t carry immediately into the second despite not capitalizing on the Tigers’ Brittany Gout’s roughing call at 7:16.

Just two and a half minutes after the expiration, Morgan Stacey created an odd-man rush for the Lakers with Samantha Fieseler.

This created a window for Samantha Isbell, who ensuingly blazed her sixth of the season from the right side off the bar.

A 15-6 shot deficit was already not enough for Scott McDonald’s hosts, despite a 37-save performance from Tiger goalie Jenna de Jonge.

A transition out of an interference call on Jennifer MacAskill allowed Tanskanen to feed Sarah Hine in close range for her third of the season, the visitors’ second tally in 3:18.

Then it was Blair’s turn again, stopping Brooke Baker on a re-

HURST

RESULTS Feb. 24, Women’s basketball vs.

Edinboro: 81-63, Edinboro (Lakers finish 10-18) Feb. 24, Men’s basketball vs.

Edinboro: 92-84, Lakers Feb. 26, Men’s basketball vs.

Slippery Rock: 61-58, Slippery Rock (Lakers, who were seeded No. 6 in the PSAC, finish 13-14) Feb. 24, Wrestling Super Region One tournament at Pitt-Johnstown University: Dakota DesLauriers won Super Regional title in 184 lbs. (Team placed fifth overall in the tourney)

bound earlier in the second and sliding to stop Kendall Cornine on a wraparound well into the third to finish off a 21-save shutout.

After Summer-Rae Dobson was sent off for interference, Tanskanen capitalized and sent a feed to Hine off the boards.

Tanskanen retrieved it back in a 2-on-1 rush, and finished off her 14th of the season at 10:46 of the third.

In game two, their last preparation for the conference tournament, the Lakers (16-14-4, 13-43) took momentum from a 13-4 shot advantage in the first period on Feb. 24 and saw Michele Robillard start a rush.

The Lakers’ Maggie Knott then backhanded her 12th of the season between de Jonge’s (0-8, 4.65) legs at 15:43 of the first, rebounding after she had stopped Alexa Vasko on a two-man rush less than three minutes in.

Yet it was just 90 seconds into the second that Hine — along with Robillard rebounding nicely from a combined -17 rebound rating in 2016 — combined with Tanskanen on the point to hand Dobson her ninth of the season.

It was here that the Lakers seized control over the contest as the squads combined to kill off all 11 power-play opportunities,

the first of which came just 41 seconds after Dobson’s goal.

And after withstanding that — along with a breakaway stop on Tanskanen later in the period — finished off the scoring and shot barrage as Brooke Hartwick finished her senior season with her 13th of the campaign.

Her shot came from the left circle and off the pipe, just the seventh time all season the Lakers found the net within the first five minutes of the third.

It narrowly missed one of 43 saves for de Jonge, but her Tigers (4-27- 3, 1-19) were outshot themselves 46-19 as Blair (9-71, 1.49) finished off the third by stopping Cornine four times in the period and meeting Baker on a shorthanded breakaway midway in the period.

“We just sticked to our team systems and playing as a team as getting pucks on net and having a relentless forecheck was key,” said Frappier.

Now 9-2 when scoring, it was Tanskanen’s last of six games without countryman and linemate Emma Nuutinen, who two days earlier secured Olympic bronze for Finland.

The Laker’s next opponent for the coming post season is currently undetermined.

WRITER’S

PICKS CHA Regular Season Awards Prediction for Mercyhurst All-Conference First Team Maggie Knott All-Conference Second Team: Forward: Vilma Tanksanen Goalie: Kennedy Blair All-Rookie Team Forward: Alexa Vasko Goalie: Kennedy Blair Best Defensive Forward Morgan Stacey Team Sportsmanship Award Mercyhurst

Tennis begins the spring with wins

By Daniel Leonard

Staff writer

Starting the spring season strong, both the men’s and women’s Mercyhurst Tennis teams have maintained perfect records.

The men’s team currently has 5-0 in team matches, and the women’s team a solid 8-0 in team matches.

Most recently, the men’s team bested Fairmont State University 9-0 on Feb. 23 and the women’s team defeated Notre Dame of Ohio (9-0 as well).

“At this level of tennis, most matches are won with the proper mindset,” said men’s and women’s head coach Jerome Simon.

“Developing the right strategy and executing as needed.”

On the women’s team, Saioa Gomez de Segura, a senior and dedicated athlete, has been ranked 5th in the country.

“Next year for the women will be a whole new team as we graduate exactly half of the team. For the men we only have one graduate, but it is critical as he plays the number one position,” said Simon. “We are pulling together for each other and that is big, unlike other team sports.”

Arseniy Sklyarov, a sophomore

Mercyhurst tennis photo

Mercyhurst women’s tennis team, from left: Saioa Gomez de Segura, Adrianna Jeffress, Kayla Frost, Coach Jerome Simon, Adina Spahalic, Ivona Plecevic and Athina Tsagkaraki.

member of the men’s team, said, “We have our sole senior, Nenad Terzic, leaving next year. Unfortunately, he is a key puzzle piece to the team and will be missed.”

While most players are alone during a match, unlike many other sports, tennis has a unique level of camaraderie.

“Being a part of the Mercyhurst men’s tennis team means being part of a cult,” said Sklyarov. “All the guys are extremely close and the friendships I have

on the team are paramount to me. Being able to play for the team is something I dearly cherish for the memories and the teammates.”

“We are just at the beginning of our season. But you can’t look past the most important match, which is your next one,” said Simon.

The men’s and women’s teams’ next opponent will be West Liberty University away in West Virginia.

SPORTS

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

PAGE 15

Men’s hockey AHA champs

By Breonna Bailey

Staff writer

By the time the weekend was over, the Mercyhurst Lakers men’s hockey had racked up accomplishments during their final regular season play in Rochester, N.Y. After beating the RIT Tigers on Feb. 23-24, the Lakers clinched the Atlantic Hockey Association (AHA) regular season title.

The weekend also saw captain Jack Riley reach the 100 career points milestone as a Laker.

In game one, the Lakers’ Bryan Sienerth opened the scoring early in the first (assisted by Zach Todd), giving the Lakers a 1-0 lead.

A mere 38 seconds into the second period, Sienerth iced another, scoring his second of the night for a 2-0 Laker lead. Riley and Derek Barach recorded assists for the Lakers’ second goal.

It wasn’t until roughly halfway through the second that the Tigers managed to find the back of the net making the tally 2-1.

With just over a minute remaining in the second, the Tigers tied the game 2-2.

The Tigers then took their first lead of the game early in the third period.

Mercyhurst hockey photo

The Mercyhurst men’s hockey team poses for a photo after the Lakers’ 4-3 victory over RIT on Feb. 24.

Less than two minutes later, the Lakers regained their footing when Joseph Duszak found the back of the net, tying it at 3.

Riley recorded his 15th goal of the season, giving the Lakers a 4-3 lead that remained until time expired and giving Riley credit for the game-winning goal.

Late in the third, it looked like there was a Tiger goal, but goaltender interference was called on

the play, ruling the goal no good.

Lakers goaltender Brandon Wildung stopped 35 out of 38 shots, and Mercyhurst finished 0-for-3 on the power play while the Tigers went 0-for-4.

The Lakers returned to action Saturday night to become the AHA regular-season champions, finishing with a 4-3 win over the Tigers.

Half way through the first, the

Lakers were behind 1-0 after the Tigers capitalized on a power-play opportunity.

Less than 2 minutes remained in the first when Michael Verboom was able to tie the game at 1, with assists from Duszak and Jonathan Charbonneau.

During the second period, RIT capitalized on their second power-play opportunity, regaining their lead.

It wasn’t until late in the second that the Lakers would tie when a goal from James Anderson made the score 2-2.

The Tigers followed this with another power-play opportunity, taking back the lead 3-2.

Less than a minute into the first period, the Lakers capitalized on a power-play opportunity to put the score at 3-3.

The power-play goal from Sienerth came with assists from Barach and Todd. Duszak’s breakaway goal (assisted by Nathan Ferriero) gave the Lakers their first lead of the game.

Time expired, and the Lakers won 4-3. Mercyhurst went 1-for5 on the power play, while RIT was 3-for-6.

Wildung had 24 saves for the Lakers.

“I’m so happy for our team,” said head coach Rick Gotkin.

“Our team really persevered all year, and it’s just a great way to end the regular season.”

Mercyhurst will be the No. 1 seed in the Atlantic Hockey Tournament.

AHA Tournament quarterfinals are scheduled to take place on March 9-11. The Lakers’ opponent is yet to be named.

Women’s lax falls to Baseball and Le Moyne in opener softball ready

By Marco Cicchino

Staff writer

Everyone knew that if Kevin Cooke wanted to reprise his previous campaign and predecessor, his players would need to start being the open man.

Last season’s PSAC championship exemplified that, as a fourgoal deficit evaporated late in the second half and nearly led to his first title.

But despite the prior experience and a winning formula, his start to 2018 could not have deviated much farther.

And being outshot 29-14 against fourth-ranked Le Moyne on Feb. 24 didn’t help.

Instead, the Dolphins cracked open a tight first half with five straight tallies and never looked back to send the Lakers to a 16-6 rout in Syracuse.

In their worst loss since two double-digit losses in April 2013, the Lakers (0-1) fell victim to a matched 20 turnovers and won just eight of 22 draws.

The Lakers were also outshot by six in the second half after a nine-shot deficit in the first.

The two squads began the contest much more evenly-paced, as the first of Laker Taylor Izzo’s four turnovers led to the Dolphins’ Bryanna Fazio capitalizing on an ensuing giveaway off the stick of Kira Kolb to open the scoring 3:56 into the contest.

“

The team will take this game as a learning experience.”

Megan Lyons, Mercyhurst lacrosse

The great momentum swing occurred midway through the first half in a 3-all match.

After Laker Cassandra Ellis found a free-position equalizer at 15:29, Fazio won the ensuing faceoff out of a timeout and sent a shot to the left of Laker goalie Abigail Miller, where she restarted the offense and found teammate Sidney Hall, who passed to Monica Sanna at the top of the key.

Sanna raced through the slot, spun past Diana Schmitt to maintain possession, and went to the inside of Victoria Sullivan to beat Miller inside the right pipe 32 seconds later to hand the Dolphins (1-0) a 4-3 lead.

“Not only was Le Moyne’s defense consistent, but it was the first regular-season game using a 90-second shot clock,” said Mercyhurst senior Megan Lyons.

“The shot clock forces teams to

play at a faster pace and get shots off quicker. Defensively, we could use (that) to our advantage, as the team could find success with a more high-pressure defense, forcing turnovers with shot-clock violations.”

The Dolphins’ lead would only compound as the Lakers found themselves facing the first double-digit half played against them since the Dolphins and Millersville both turned the trick on the Lakers in March 2014.

The Dolphins’ Erin McMullen then finished off her hat trick just 2:45 into the second.

The Lakers’ Miller (0-1, 16.00) managed a career-high 13 saves, the first Laker to reach that mark since Rebecca Muscella in April 2015.

“We are getting some of our hardest competition out of the way early in the season, with Le Moyne and Limestone expected to be our toughest nonconference games,” said Lyons. “Learning how to play against high-level programs will allow us to find more success when we begin conference play.

“The team will take this game as a learning experience,” Lyons said. “Minor improvements will make a major difference in the long run.”

The Mercyhurst women’s lacrosse team takes to the field next against Lenoir-Rhyne University in Hickory, N.C., on March 8.

By Daniel Leonard Staff writer

As winter melts away and the spring leaves begin to grow, the Mercyhurst baseball and softball teams will climb out of the dugout for the 2018 season.

In the period between last year’s season, a number of seniors on both the baseball and softball team have graduated.

This is leaving each team with the challenge to makeup for losses in their lineup while preparing for the upcoming season.

“Cam Balego, Chris Gonzalez and Sabatino DiNardo III are big losses in our lineup from last year,” said senior Andrew Ciolli.

“Transfers such as Kenny Robinson (North East) and Alex O’ Donnell (Canisius) will help fill the void.”

With several of the players hoping to pursue a career in baseball after graduation, the team’s goal to play in the College World Series hasn’t shifted a bit.

“This year’s freshman class is one of the deepest and most talented in my four years as a Laker,” said Ciolli. “All members of the class will eventually be starters over the course of their careers.

The team’s strength is definitely going to be in the pitching staff.”

If anything, the need to makeup for their losses in the lineup has revealed some new potential and already existing strengths.

On the softball side, a similar picture is painted.

“Our pitching staff will be used a lot this season, said softball head coach Leanne Baker.

“Each pitcher brings something different to the staff.”

Baker is entering her fifth season as the coach for the Lakers.

“We gained five freshmen who are looking to get better and play at a higher level,” said senior Arainna Brone. “Sarah Koscho is a freshman that stands out. She’s got a great bat and an amazing arm. I got money on her this year to really stand out.”

Overall, both teams look like they are headed for a promising season.

Baseball is already 2-0, and softball is looking ahead after being shut out in the Snowbird tournament on Feb. 16-17.

“The team atmosphere is very relaxed and unified,” said sophomore Meredith Grimes.

“We cheer for each other on the field and are best friends off the field.”

It won’t be until mid-March when the Lakers return to campus, as the teams’ schedules keep them out and away from Erie and the cold weather.

Look for baseball on March 23 and softball on March 25 up on the Mercyhurst baseball field.

Baseball will play California University of Pennsylvania and softball, Malone University.

PAGE 16

LAKER LIVING

Wednesday, February 28, 2018

HURST TOON Student-drawn cartoon by Periwinkle