March 9 Issue of The Merciad

:Features On Page 3:

Arts & Entertainment On Page 5:

A tale of two

Sports On Page 7:

Professor performs

Margarets:

Baseball hits it out

MasterClass

A camping story

of the park

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Mercyhurst university

Est. 1929 Vol. 89 No. 16

Springfest artists are revealed

By Lauren Murphy Staff writer

It is that time of year again: Springfest is just around the corner. This year Mercyhurst welcomes special guests MTKO and Daya. The music they play is a mix between pop and hip hop.

“The process of choosing the Springfest artists is a difficult one, but ends up being rewarding in the end,” Samantha Beckas, Student Activities Council chair said.

Planning for Springfest starts in the fall when the Springfest committee and their advisors identify the budget that have to work with.

The next step, the committee figures out the “feel” or type of music they want for Springfest.

“We put in other bids before MKTO and Daya accepted our offer, but we are happy with the decision,” Beckas said.

Park Bogan, the Mercyhurst Student Government vice president; Garrett Erwin, MSG event coordinator, Samantha Collier, the MAC chair, and Beckas were the main individuals involved in the planning process.

The Springfest committee’s goal was to keep the high level of energy that past Springfest artists have brought, such as last year’s artist T-Pain, but with a different genre of music, according to Beckas.

“Garrett Erwin, Sam Beckas, and Sam Collier, along with staff from the Campus Involvement Center, have put a ton of work into the event throughout this whole school year,” Bogan said.

The finances for the artists

Wednesday, March 9, 2016

Basketball and hockey teams bring home titles

come from a Student Activities Fee that is built into student’s tuition. This fee also pays for events put on by MSG, SAC and MAC. The groups also work closely with a talent manager who sends out bids to the artists.

Students had mixed opinions about the artists for Springfest.

“I normally don’t get excited about Springfest, but this year I think I might go,” junior Brett Swan said.

Freshman Bridget Jacob said she has never heard of MKTO or Daya, but is still open to going to the concert.

“I’m excited to experience Springfest,” said Jacob. “Since it’s my first one, I’m sure I’ll enjoy it no matter who is performing. I don’t really have any expectations since it is my first one.”

“

We put in other bids before MKTO and Daya accepted our offer, but we are happy with the decision.

- Samantha Beckas

Hurst Athletics photo

Men’s basketball became the PSAC champions when they defeated West Chester, 70-67, on Sunday, March 6. This was the team’s first PSAC title. Read the full story on Page 7.

”

The process of picking an artist, sending out a bid and receiving an acceptance is lengthy and the Springfest committee can only send out one bid at a time.

The amount of planning that goes into Springfest is a mighty feat that starts back in August.

“I’m incredibly excited about the artists, and the event as a whole. It is going to be a very memorable event for every student at Mercyhurst,” Bogan said.

Hurst Athletics photo

In a battle against Syracuse that ended in overtime, the women’s hockey won the NCHA championship on Saturday, March 5. The final score was 4-3. Read the full story on Page 7.

3.5 percent tuition increase is smallest in over a decade Tuition is not a sexy topic but raising tuition is even less attractive.

On Friday, Feb. 26, President Michael Victor announced the lowest tuition increase for Mercyhurst in more than a decade. At 3.5 percent Mercyhurst students can breathe a slight sigh of

relief.

But how does 3.5 stack up against other universities?

According to collegeboard.org from 2005-2016 the average increase of private nonprofit universities is 2.4 percent.

Despite being slightly above the average, Joe Howard, vice president for enrollment, was adamant that the university did its best to make it easier on the students.

“Typically our cost would

Merciad Index

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News Features A&E Opinion Sports Laker Living

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rise anywhere from 4-6 percent,” Howard said.

Faculty and financial aid staff have all worked hard to make it as affordable as possible for incoming students.

Christian Beyer, director of undergraduate admissions, insists on getting students to a good start.

“Incoming students are new to the process and a lot of parents have anxiety about the cost, so we have perimeters in

place, and have tried to make it as affordable as possible.”

Beyer continued to hammer home the proactive approach.

“What we have always done is take a holistic approach to the whole situation, looking at applications and financial aid. Each of our admission counselors works with incoming students, and look at their need and academics. We try to be as transparent as possible and make sure parents

are knowledgeable…It really starts with that first year,” Beyer said.

One tool the university is hoping will educate and empower students is Mercyhurst’s partnering with the agency SALT. SALT is a financial agency that specializes in financial knowledge for college students and beyond college. The program has the ability to help students repay debt, have plans in place to

pay for school, and even help students find a job.

Tuition stinks, tuition increases stink even more and Howard could not emphasize that enough.

“Tuition increases aren’t something anyone wants to hear but I’m really proud of what the president has done to keep the rise at a minimum.”

Online Poll Results

What is your opinion on the Springfest artists this year?

I’m psyched for the show! (38%) They’re a mediocre choice. We could have gotten better. (31%) I don’t really have an opinion either way. (19%) MK who??? (12%)

Be sure to vote in this week’s online poll: 1

2

3

4

What are your plans for spring break? merciad.mercyhurst.edu

@TheMerciad

March 9, 2016

The Merciad

Page 2

News

Catholic students revive Devotions

By Alexandria Albano Staff writer

Catholic Mercyhurst students are being given the opportunity to go further within their faith through Catholic Devotions. They take place in Christ the King Chapel on Tuesdays at 8:30 p.m.

On Tuesday, March 1, a group of Mercyhurst students acted out the Stations of the Cross and the previous week they said the rosary in various languages. People are allowed to come watch and participate if they like.

With the remaining Tuesdays of the school year, different forms of prayer and devotions will be incorporated as well.

Sophomore Political Science

major Sergio Cortes started Catholic Devotions this year and is one of the leaders, with many good things to say about them.

“Catholic Devotions is awesome. This is a place where Catholics can be welcomed and be reconnected with God, practice faith, and go deeper within their faith in a Catholic form of expressing it,” said Cortes. “I want everyone Margaret Urso photo to come. Anyone is welcome including non-Catholics. A team of student leaders plan Catholic Devotions each week. From left to right: Mary Jaskowak, Everyone is open to the Cath- Rebecca Harms, Sergio Cortes and Nour Hijazeen. olic Church.”

In previous years, Senior was no real difference between martyrs..., Piszker said. going through a period of History major Michael Best the two…” Best said.

Throughout the years Cath- reform and re-examination. led the Catholic Devotions Catholic Devotions have olic Devotions have gone In recent years, the Euchaand according to him, the new been used within the Catholic through different phases as ristic adoration became more Catholic Devotions remain faith for many years. well. popular with the current genlike the old ones.

“There have been devotions “There was a decline in eration of young people that “In a lot of ways, this new in the Catholic Church going all of these devotions and connects these devotions to group picked up right where back to the Middle Ages par- seemed like they disappeared Catholic identity which is a the old group left off. There ticularly for the saints and the when in actuality they were primary importance to them,”

Piszker said.

Members taking part in them have had only positive words about their experiences thus far.

Sophomore Intelligence Studies major Ryan King also brings up being able to come together with other Catholics.

“Seeing the stations of the cross acted out, instead of just reading about them or seeing pictures of it, allows you to immerse yourself in the action and connect with your faith on a deeper level,” King said.

One of the participants also brings up a point about the day Catholic Devotions falls on.

“It is nice that it can be more than just on Sundays and gives you different ways to experience the faith,” Natalie Merucci, sophomore Intelligence and Psychology major, said.

Mercyhurst community chimes in on Apple privacy issue

By Melanie Todd Staff writer

America is abuzz with questions of privacy since the Federal Bureau of Investigations got a judge to order Apple to give them access to an iPhone involved in the December San Bernardino terrorist attack.

The FBI seeks to find additional information on the attack from gaining access to the iPhone.

“It’s [privacy] not a new issue. The balance we have to strike in democratic government, the responsibility that we have is to ensure individual privacy and the government’s responsibility to provide citizens with security,” Robert Heibel, founder and business developer of the Tom Ridge School of Intelligence, said.

Currently, there is no precedent for cases such as this. In a separate case, a New York judge ruled in favor of Apple

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over the Drug Enforcement Administration. The DEA referenced the All Writs Act of 1789, which allows federal courts to issue “necessary or appropriate writs.”

“This speaks to a larger problem though. Our laws lag so far behind the technology. The technology increases more quickly than laws,” said Brian Sheridan, communication lecturer.

Smartphones are thoroughly integrated into soci-

ety. Phones now have more in common with computers than simple telephones. They contain text messages, call logs, banking information, passwords, along with various other information. Additionally, Apple is a global company, which raises even more questions about the scope of law enforcement and national security.

“We’re doing this because we think that protecting the security and the privacy of hundreds of millions of iPhone users is the right thing to do,” Bruce Sewell, Apple’s general counsel told the Washington Post.

Within the first week of having the iPhone, recovered from the suspects in the San Bernardino attack in December, the FBI attempted to change the password remotely from the iCloud. The goal was to prevent anyone from remotely altering the information on the device, but resulted in the phone locking down. If the agents incorrectly enter the password, the phone will now erase.

“It’s not just one phone that they are talking about. They want a key to unlock anywhere from ten-one hundred phones involved in other cases that aren’t even terrorist related,” Sheridan said.

The final verdict of this case will set an important precedent for all future cases and ultimately impact citizens’ privacy rights.

“Terrorism scares us and we behave in ways that are often harmful to us because we are scared. If this was closer to 9/11 and Edward Snowden had not leaked those documents, then I think the FBI would get what they want, but now I think there’s more value on privacy,” Sheridan said.

One of terrorism’s goals is control through fear. Even though the FBI is working to counter terroristic efforts, terrorists may potentially alter the perceived privacy of citizens through the psychological fear they inflict.

“You have to ask yourself the question: if prior to 9/11 we had access to an iPhone to prevent what took place,

there’s no question it would happen,” Heibel said.

It is even more important to consider if they do gain access to iPhones, the extent to which they are able to use that power.

“The key here is that there is legislation and some type of overseeing body. Right now we have FISA courts established to oversee issuing of authority to eavesdrop. We need something similar to that,” Heibel said.

This case has been very public and is personal for the many Apple customers and all smartphone users. However, it would start a new precedent of heightened government involvement and control in private industry. If they gain access to one, case law will support access to all.

“They can have my iPhone when they pry it out of my cold, dead hands,” Sheridan said.

@TheMerciad

Activities planned for Family Weekend

By Lauren Murphy Staff writer

This upcoming weekend, Friday, March 10, through Sunday, March 13, families are invited to Mercyhurst for Family Weekend for some family fun provided by Student Activities Council and Multicultural Activities Council.

Family Weekend will be filled with activities and a brunch with President Michael T. Victor that will immediately follow Mass in Christ the King Chapel at 9 a.m.

Those who would like to attend the brunch with Victor must register online.

According to Samantha Beckas, Student Activities Council Chair, magician Nash Fung will be performing in Taylor Little Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on Friday.

On Saturday, professors from all academic departments will be running a set of class simulations at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

At 7 p.m. SAC is hosting an event called “Lucky to be a Laker” in the REC. “During Lucky to be a

Laker we’ll have tie-dying, a Photo Booth, inflatables and more,” Beckas said.

Families will also be taken on a scavenger hunt adventure around campus with photos to guide them and selfies sticks that SAC will be giving away.

The class simulations at 11 a.m. include “Who Were the Dinosaurs” with Scott McKenzie, “Who is the Buddha” with Thomas Forsthoefel, Ph.D., “The Benefits of Mediation” with Brian Sheridan and “Culinary Instruction” with Chef Mehler.

The class simulations at 1:30 p.m. include “Electing a President: 2016, Elections and the Electoral College” with Randy Clemons, Ph.D. and Michael Federici, Ph.D. and “True Colors” with Preston Reilly and Pertrina Marrero.

“We really wanted to showcase the culture of Mercyhurst through the classes we chose,” Beckas said.

For family sport enthusiasts, the men’s lacrosse team is playing against Mount Olive on Saturday at 1 p.m. at Tullio Field.

In order to pull off this fun Family Weekend, it took the collective efforts of SAC and

MAC. Beckas was in charge of booking and planning the entertainment and activities that are being hosted. She also contacted the professors that will be running the class simulations.

“I worked very closely with Lindsay Cox in Alumni Relations to schedule the weekend and brainstorm what we wanted this weekend to look like and what we wanted families to get out of their visit,” Beckas said.

Sam Collier, the MAC chair, and other MAC and SAC programmers will be working at the events when they take place.

“This was a very exciting process for me and I’m excited to see it all come to life. I am hoping that students and their families can enjoy the weekend,” Beckas said.

Beckas encouraged anyone who had questions to contact her at sacchair@mercyhurst. edu.

For anyone who is interested in coming up for the weekend visit http://hurstal u m n i . o r g / e ve n t s / f a m i ly-weekend-2016/ to receive information regarding registration and hotel discounts.

March 9, 2016

Page 3

The Merciad

Features

Kneuer to lead wildlife trial tours

By Rae Pollock Staff writer

A Mercyhurst student has pledged 10 weeks of her summer to sweating, performing manual labor and peeing outside.

Sophomore Psychology major Margaret Kneuer will work with the Rocky Mountain Youth Corps trail crew to lead a group of young adults through different wildlife experiences while mantaining zero contact with civilization. She hopes to gain a new appreciation for nature and to work hard in the wild. Senior Social Work major Margaret Switzer worked with the trail crew last summer.

“You just learn how to coexist with nature and different people, and it’s really awesome,” said Switzer.

“You learn a lot about camping and the outdoors and survival skills because you sleep in a tent the whole summer, or, sometimes when the weather was nice, we would all sleep outside of our tents.”

Working with the Rocky Mountain Youth Corps trail crew means working 40 hours a week for various companies like The Forest Service or working on national park projects. Each night everyone participates in reflections and team-building exercises. On the weekends, trail crews can climb mountains, investigate caves, visit national parks and explore sand dunes.

“I think I’m going to gain a lot of knowledge and skills about the outdoors because right now I have a very limited knowledge,” said Kneuer.

“I’m expecting to be put to work, to be tested and to gain a new experience. I know it’s going to be a good summer, though, because this is a crazy

Contributed photo

Margaret Knuer will spend her summer leading a team of 18- to 25-year-olds in the wild. Showers are expected to become a rare occurrence.

and unique experience.”

Each trail crew is made up of nine people total, and everyone is a stranger until the trail crews meet at the beginning of the summer for orientation.

“I’m going in totally blind,” Kneuer said.

Once every weekend, the trail crew will have the opportunity to shower and do laundry. Although showers are few and far between, Switzer says the experience is worth it.

“I had such a great time and I definitely noticed when I came back from the summer that I was more laid back and chill. I felt like there were problems and then there were bigger problems,” Switzer said.

Switzer has many fond memories of the trip, but one funny story stands out as her favorite.

“There was this one time when my crew leader peed on my pants, but it was my own

fault and my own stupidity,” said Switzer.

“We were working for The Forest Service and after work we were laying our stuff on the ground while we set up our tents. For some reason, I forgot to bring in my rain pants for the night and I left them on the ground. The next morning my crew leader asked if anyone left his or her pants out last night because he accidentally peed on them when it was too dark to see.”

While Switzer reminisces about her experience, Kneuer is gathering the supplies necessary for the summer. She wants to be as prepared as possible.

“I’m trying to prepare my body for the endurance, because I’m going to be hiking and doing manual labor. I want to be ready for that and I’m mentally preparing for it too,” Kneuer said.

The Rocky Mountain Youth Corps has several programs

Contributed photo

Switzer and Knuer are both members of the Mercyhurst Rowing team.

Contributed photo

Knuer will prepare herself physically in order to improve her endurance for when the time comes that she has to get lost in the wild.

similar to the trail crews, such as a fire crew to combat wildfires and a chainsaw crew to clear the forest. Applications to join a crew are still open,

and anyone ages 18-25 can apply online.

“If you’re just looking for something to do for the summer, then there’s still time

to apply,” Switzer said.

To send your application go to rockymountainyouthcorps. org.

Student wins Intel competition LAKER MOMENT

By Jose Nufio

By Marco Cicchino

Features Editor

Senior Business Competitive Intelligence and Finance major, Nhi Tran was chosen as one of the two winners of the Jim Mathews Award and Fellowship for Intelligence Excellence.

Tran will travel to Madison, Wis. from April 19-21 to an award ceremony hosted by research and intelligence company Aurora WDC. She will present her research in a 15-minute presentation to a group of industry professionals and potential employers.

“I consider it one of my biggest achievements. It’s a recognition for my hard work and commitment and it proves my passion to competitive intelligence,” Tran said.

Tran learned about the competition through her work in the Center for Intelligence Research and Analysis & Training as part of the intelligence program. Through CIRAT, she worked with multiple contractors and delivered daily competitive intelligence reports.

She was picked from over a dozen students in the U.S. and six other countries. Four winners moved on to the interview round and two were chosen afterward to receive the final award.

“I think I am really good in doing research and analyzing open source information, and from there, figuring out the

Phuong Nguyen photo

Nhi Tran will travel to Wisconsin to give a 15-minute presentation on her research into the benefits of social media when applied in a competitive intelligence context.

trends of macro and microeconomics. I love coming up with strategies and solutions to how the company can avoid surprises and gain a competitive advantage over competitors,” Tran said.

Tran wrote an essay on the applications of social media in the competitive intelligence practice. The essay focused on the benefits analysts receive from using social media.

“My essay is about what is social media and what are some of the benefits that social media analyst receive in the CI practice,” Tran said.

In her essay, she explains the analytical tools that can be used to analyze social media in order to know more about a

company’s competitors. Tran then sought to define social media and talk about the advantages of social media for individual firms.

“Through social media, what do you know about your competitors in terms of their customers, their management and their operations?” said Tran.

“The topic itself is quite interesting for me. They asked me to talk about six things that executives need to know about social media in terms of CI practice. So I came up with six things that may help them.”

At the conference, Tran will listen to speakers from different industries talk about how

they apply CI practices in their firms.

“It is a great opportunity to network and meet new people,” said Tran.

“The biggest opportunity is learning CI experiences from CI experts. It’s a great opportunity for jobs.”

Until her trip, Tran will proofread her essay to prepare for her presentation and get ready to travel.

“I am so excited to be there, because I’ll be traveling and I’ll get to meet a new city,” Tran said.

@TheMerciad

Marco Cicchino photo

Freshman Intelligence major Marco Cicchino, took pictures of the numbers in various sports jerseys and the scoreboards to set a collage forming Pi. With Pi day coming this Monday, March 14, lets hope Egan gives us a nice selection of pies to chose from.

Page 4

Features

March 9, 2016

The Merciad

MEOW rallies for women’s rights

By Amber Matha Staff writer

The Mercyhurst Equality of Women club, traveled to Washington D.C. to support the women’s rights case being heard by the Supreme Court.

On March 2, nine members of the club were present at the rally supporting women’s abortion rights during the Whole Women’s Health v. Hellerstedt case. The club’s goal was to stand in support of women’s rights regardless of genders. The trip was organized by club officers senior Archaeology major Brianna Flynn and senior Psychology major Danielle Dros.

“This is supposed to be one of the most historical cases since Roe v. Wade, so that is pretty cool,” Flynn said.

The controversy was initiated by a Texas law called HB2, which requires women’s health and abortion clinics to upgrade their facilities to very strict standards and have admitting privileges to local hospitals. After its implementation in 2013, only 18 of

the approximately 40 original clinics remain. The law threatens to close more of Texas’ women clinics.

The case was initiated by Whole Woman’s Health, a women’s health clinic that has its flagship facility in Texas and seven other facilities nationwide.

According to their website, they are a private feminist organization that focuses on providing safe gynecological and abortion care to women in need. The closure of various local clinics has forced patients to travel over 300 miles in order to find the care they are looking for.

MEOW got together the evening before the rally to make posters. Freshman Education Major Nicole Bierwerth made a sign that read “My body is not your political battleground.”

Bierwerth, along with her poster, made the front and center of a picture taken and posted by USA Today on their article covering the case. The majority of the group said that they had never been to a rally or even to Washington

D.C. before.

“Opposition was there, which was kind of awkward and scary,” said Dros, “But it was really awesome that the picture with Nicole was posted on the USA Today website.”

The members that went included seven women, one a-gender and a male. Johnny DiPrinzio looked forward to this trip in order to support women’s rights as a man.

“It is especially important for men to step up for women because men are the developers of the patriarchy,” said DiPrinzio.

“We have to give women voices and give them these rights that we took away.”

The group had to adhere to a peaceful non-engagement agreement created by Planned Parenthood in order to attend the rally at the Supreme Court steps. No decision was made on the case on March 2 and the Supreme Court is still strongly divided.

“We are making so much forward progress with human rights that it is kind of scary that this case is going on,” said

Contributed photo

MEOW traveled to D.C. to rally during the Whole Women’s Health v. Hellerstedt case. This poster made by Nicole Bierwerth was featured in USA Today’s website.

Dros. “Women’s rights are human rights.”

According to the Wall Street Journal, ever since this issue was brought to the Supreme Court, a Louisiana abortion

law has been blocked until a decision is made on the abortion law in Texas.

Those interested in getting involved with MEOW are encouraged to contact club

officers Devon Firestone at dfires73@lakers.mercyhurst.edu or Danielle Dros at ddros23@lakers.mercyhurst. edu.

Phong Vu wins Ambassador of the year

By Jose Nufio Features editor

For his perseverance and hard work, Phong Vu was recognized as ambassador of the

year.

Each year, the admission office honors a senior ambassador to recognize their distinguished work in the ambassadors club. The person is chosen based on their past

as an ambassador, including the amount of work they do, their work ethic and whether they were willing to go beyond their responsibilities as an ambassador to provide outstanding services not only to

Tung Vu photo

Phong Vu credits his success to the values taught to him by his mother. He considers this achievement as one of the proudest moments of his life.

the admissions office, but to the guests touring the school.

This year, senior Finance and Accounting major Phong Vu was chosen to receive the award during the Ambassador Spring Tea ceremony. The ceremony is held every year to bid farewell to all senior ambassadors and welcome all the incoming freshmen ambassadors.

“It was one of the proudest moments of my life. You are standing there and basically 300 to 400 people were clapping and cheering on you,” Vu said.

Vu stood out over 26 other senior ambassadors by going the extra mile. He did twice the amount of work required and helped out in the admissions office whenever he had a chance.

“Ambassadors usually need to complete 30 events, which includes tours and other events from the university. I did twice the amount of event requirements. Whenever there is something they needed help with, I am always there,” said Vu.

“And I also got really good reviews because I give good tours.”

The winner is chosen by Campus Visit Coordinator, Sloan Spinks who meets with different ambassadors throughout the week and through their feedback and conversations gets an idea of how ambassadors are like. She also receives reviews from other ambassadors.

“I kind of saw it coming. I mean, I worked really hard. I wanted it since the beginning of the school year. It was tough, but I got it,” Vu said.

For his sister and fellow ambassador, Phuong Vu, seeing her brother receive the award was not a surprise.

“He works really hard as an ambassador. He not only finished his assigned tours and events, but was also willing to take on more and help out other ambassadors when needed. And he did not only give tours for the sake of it, but instead truly represented the school and tried his best to match what the school has to offer with the interests of

the prospective students,” said Phuong Vu. “There were a few times that I walked past his tour and I could tell the students and their family were really enjoying it.”

Vu attributes his dedication and perseverance to the lessons he learned from his mother.

“My mom always taught me that a person is defined by his or her actions. One thing my mom is really proud is that I am hard-working and I build my character from that,” said Vu. During the ceremony, graduating senior ambassadors received a whisky cup with a bottle of wine. Aside from his title, Vu received a Mercyhurst sweatshirt.

@TheMerciad

Fashion tips: the 90s make a comeback

By Brittany Smyth Staff writer

After the long and dreary winter, students can finally lock away their coats and show off their bodies a bit more.

As students finally start coming out of their dens, it is time to start preparing for spring. Senior Fashion major Savannah Adair has done a lot of research regarding new fashion trends students should consider.

“I mostly look at spring collections on any fashion website like Forever 21 or any designer’s websites or blogs.

Or I’ll check out Instagram so I can find boutique accounts to see what they are selling,” Adair said.

So what will everyone be wearing? What has come back into style? What is trendy right now? Let’s get started.

From the chokers to the overalls, the ’90s are defi-

nitely back in style. As college kids growing up during that decade, this is a flashback to our childhoods.

From the ’90s, there is a throwback to the Victorian era which is shown through high necklines and ruffles.

Even though styles are in from the Victorian era, it also comes with a modern twist.

Although lingerie is most commonly worn during the night time, a new spring trend is integrating them into the diurnal hours. Whether it be by wearing a bralette or sexy silhouettes, wearing lingerie inspired clothes during the day has become a thing.

“Off the shoulder tops are becoming a big thing. Especially boyfriend jeans as well.

And for bathing suits, definitely one pieces are super trendy,” Adair said.

Bold colors and patterns are also making a comeback in an effort to show off student’s look in a very ‘out

there’ manner. Because the weather is getting nicer, it’s time for girls to pull out the maxi dresses. Maxi dresses can come in any style and color, but their length will still remain the same. These dresses were created to provide a sophisticated look with the material to the ground.

The dresses normally have straps, so they would be good to pair with a jean jacket or cardigan.

Pantone is a well-known company based out of New Jersey that has a color matching system that determines trends on what the next hot color will be. The two colors chosen as colors of the year are Rose Quartz and Serenity.

According to their website: “Rose Quartz is a persuasive, yet gentle tone that conveys compassion and a sense of composure. Serenity is weightless and airy, like the expanse of the blue sky above us, bringing feelings of respite

and relaxation even in turbulent times.”

There are a few other colors that can brighten up your style. Besides the two colors of the year, Peach Echo, Snorkel Blue, Buttercup, Limpet Shell, Iced Coffee and Fiesta are suggested colors to wear this spring.

These are unisex colors that will define the color trends this year. Some of the colors have an urban feel with a soothing touch while others have a pop of excitement.

The Pantone website states that the colors are, “Paying homage to the beauty of natural resources, colors emerging in the spring collections serve as vehicles that transport wearers to more tranquil, mindful environs which encourage relaxation first, followed by curiosity and exploration.”

To sum it all up, the new color trends have an urban feel that give off a very nat-

Contributed photo

Spring is coming, and with it comes new fashion. Rae Pollock rocks the typical ’90s look.

ural look and appeal. But, it is okay to add in some other spring colors to give you that extra pop. So give your look a

fresh set of colors chosen by Pantone to find your perfect spring outfit.

March 9, 2016

Page 5

The Merciad

Arts &

Entertainment

Dancers will leave audiences speechless

By Amber Matha Staff writer

The Mercyhurst Dance Department will perform Beyond Words V next weekend to showcase both Mercyhurst Ballet Theater dancers and SoMar dancers.

There will be four performances throughout the weekend. The first will be on Friday, March 18, at 4:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center.

There will be two performances on March 19. The first at 2 p.m. and the second at 7 p.m.

The last performance will be on March 20, at 2 p.m.

All performances will take place in the Performing Arts Center.

The Friday and Saturday shows will be followed by a talk with the dancers and the choreographers of the show.

This will give the audience the chance to connect with the performers.

The performances will benefit and raise awareness for violence against women.

The March 19 performance will include a reception and silent auction to raise money for SafeNet and the Jenni-Lyn Watson Memorial Scholarship Fund.

The scholarship is awarded to a student with a passion for the arts and dance who cannot afford to receive specialized training.

The Ballet Theater will be joined by SoMar Dance Works, a dance company

founded by Mercyhurst Professors Solveig and Mark Santillano.

Some Mercyhurst dance majors dance not only for Mercyhurst but also for the SoMar dance company.

Alexis Nale, a dance major, is looking forward to the performance.

“It will be a very wide range of styles of both ballet and modern,” Nale said.

She will be dancing with the SoMar Company.

Much like the athletic teams, the dancers in the performances have to sacrifice their breaks in the name of their passion.

“It is going to be the weekend of spring break so campus is going to be deserted,” Nale said, “We will be here per-

MIAC photo

Come see Beyond Words V beginning Friday, March 18 in the Performing Arts Center.

forming anyway.”

New to this year, audience members can buy a Dance Flex Pass.

The Flex Pass is three

admission tickets for the price of two.

Tickets to each performance for Mercyhurst Students with their ID are $5 each.

If anyone is on campus over spring break, head over to the Performing Arts Center and support your classmates.

Whale Hemsworth survive?

By Mackenzie Burns Staff writer

Janyl Lineman, Fallon’s Photography

Diane Kalinowski, soprano, is the part time voice and vocal literature instructer at Mercyhurst.

Recital welcomes spring

By Jenny Sabliov

Arts and entertainment editor

The Mercyhurst University Music Department Faculty Recital Series continues with Diane Kalinowski’s soprano recital on Tuesday, March 29, at 8 p.m. Kalinowski will be accompanied by Nathan Hess, D.M.A, on the piano for this recital.

Joseph Kneer, D.M.A, will also accompany the two for one of the pieces which is the virtuosic violin obligato in Mozart’s concert aria “Non temer, amato bene” (K. 490).

This is Kalinowski’s very first faculty recital at Mercyhurst.

She chose these songs because she wanted to encompass a wide variety of geographical regions.

This recital was not originally meant to be about spring but it does and welcomes spring with selections that include, but are not lim-

ited to, a three-song scene in which a girlfriend cheers for her beloved in a Venetian boat race (“La regata veneziana” by Rossini); a depiction of morning (“Morgen” by Strauss); a set of three scenic songs by Rachmaninoff culminating in one of his most popular songs (“Spring Waters”); and three romantic Polish songs

by Chopin (“The Ring,” “The Bridegroom” and “My Darling”).

The evening ends with an American set of three Robert Browning Poems by Harriet Amy Beach (“I Send My Heart Up to Thee,” “Ah, Love But a Day” and “The Year’s at the Spring!”).

One of the reasons that she chose two of the songs was that they were composed by women.

She frequently performs works by female composers and emphasizes their compositions because there is a pattern of female composers’ works not being celebrated.

Kalinowski teaches at Mercyhurst University as the part time instructor of Voice and Vocal Literature and is also a professional opera singer.

“I am a 2004 graduate of Mercyhurst so the school holds a special place in my heart,” Kalinowski said.

Kalinowski received a Masters of Music in Opera from the University of Kansas and a Bachelors of Music in Voice Performance from Mercyhurst.

Kalinowski is very dedicated to the promotion and teaching of the arts, particularly in younger audiences.

She is a frequent recitalist and has been a middle and high school lecturer. She has also taught at the University of Kansas and Alleghany College.

This recital is not one to miss so join Kalinowski, Hess and Kneer in finally welcoming the spring season.

The mandolin is relevant

By Rachel Sobina Staff writer

Online

Mercyhurst University welcomes world famous Mandolinist, Avi Avital.

Avital was born in southern Israel. He began playing the mandolin at the age of eight, and was soon involved in an orchestra.

Avi graduated from the Jerusalem School of Music, and then traveled to Italy to learn the history of the instrument.

Avi is internationally known, having played in New York, San Francisco, Beijing, London and Israel along with

many other places.

He is the first mandolinist to ever receive a Grammy Nomination for “Best Instrumental Soloist” in 2010.

He has won numerous competitions and awards including Germany’s ECHO Prize for his 2008 recording with the David Orlowsky Trio and the AVIV Competition in 2007, the preeminent national competition for Israeli soloists.

Avi plays many different genres of music including baroque, classical, jazz and traditional Jewish music of Eastern Europe.

All throughout his career, Avi has captivated audiences by passionately playing music

Full list of events can be found on the PAC website

in a way that speaks to more than just your ears. For Avital, music is a pathway to another place.

He will be joined onstage by an accordion and percussion for his Between Worlds program.

Avital will perform a cross-cultural concert highlighting his innovative transcriptions of Bach and Bartók and his mastery of classical technique.

Do not miss this opportunity to see Avital in the Walker Recital Hall on Thursday, March 10, at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $14 for students. @TheMerciad

The movie “In the Heart of the Sea” will please Melville fans, Harry Potter fans and Hemsworth fans.

In the words of Thomas Nickerson, “the tragedy of the Essex is the story of men and a demon.”

The film will screen at Mercyhurst University, where all can experience the same story that inspired Melville’s Moby Dick.

Enjoy a look into the voyage of 21 men, where a giant sperm whale left them stranded at sea for 90 days, and ultimately changed their young lives forever.

The film, directed by Ron Howard, is based on the 2000 non-fiction book by Nathaniel Philbrick, also entitled “In the Heart of the Sea.” A story within a story, the conversation between Melville and Nickerson takes us back to 1820, when the American whaling ship Essex encountered a whale of unthinkable size and strength, forcing the

Chris Hemsworth, right, as the lead role Owen Chase.

surviving crew to abandon ship.

The journey to shore was hundreds of miles long. With limited supplies, the starving men must resort to cannibalism to stay alive.

Chris Hemsworth plays the lead role, a Nantucket farmer and whaler, Owen Chase.

“Skyfall’s” Ben Winshaw plays Herman Melville while he visits an elderly Thomas Nickerson inquiring about the story of the demon whale.

Brendan Gleeson, familiarly known as Professor Mad-Eye

MIAC photo

Moody, stars as the elderly Nickerson and Tom Holland plays young Nickerson.

All are welcome to partake in the incredible, eye-opening adventure on March 13 in the Taylor Little Theatre. Screening begins at 2 p.m. and will run for just over two hours.

Mercyhurst students may purchase discounted tickets for $1 with their I.D.

@TheMerciad

REVIEW

This recital was on key

By Amber Matha Staff writer

Another week, another music recital. On Thursday, March 3, I attended Nathan Hess’s, D.M.A, faculty recital.

I went with Jenny Sabliov when she interviewed Hess for the preview article, so I knew what to expect for the recital.

I knew that Hess was going to have a piece that required four hands, so when I saw the one stool I was confused.

I thought to myself, “Are they both going to sit on that itty bitty little baby stool?”

I imagined that would have been rather humorous to watch, but figured they would bring out a second stool.

The first piece by Haydn was very whimsical and I liked how upbeat it was.

He did not use sheet music which is always impressive to me because it was perfectly rehearsed and flawless.

One thing I thought was really cool was that he crisscrossed his hands for a bit of

View upcoming performances: www.miac.mercyhurst.edu

the piece.

I know if I tried to do that my hands would become very confused.

During Jenny’s interview with Hess, he commented that he was not sure if he was going to speak about the pieces or use program notes.

At that time, he was convinced that he would only write down program notes.

I was pleased to discover that he decided to talk as well.

He even made a funny remark, another thing he said he would not do.

In his speech, I learned that the main tune of the Haydn piece was actually about a farmer’s wife trying to catch her cat.

That was pretty amusing.

The second piece featured Fr. Sean Duggan.

They brought out the second stool as I imagined, but they set them up in a very peculiar way.

I assumed that they would set the stools out long ways so that the stools would cover the length of the keys.

No.

Rather, they set them up so that the short ends of the stools faced the piano so the total length was about one stool turned so the long end faced the piano.

These are musicians, not mathematicians, evidently.

I learned in the two middle pieces that playing a piece with two people on the same piano requires a lot of coordination.

The timing had to be perfect and to do so they both inhaled sharply to keep each other in time.

The last piece was a solo piece that Hess performed without sheet music, again an impressive feat.

When he introduced it, he said there was a stormy middle section in one of the movements.

The only thing I could think was that there was going to be rain, or snow due to the weather, in Walker Recital Hall.

Overall the recital was, as usual, perfect to my ears and allowed me to get away from the stress that Friday was sure to bring.

www.merciad.mercyhurst.edu/ arts_entertainment

Page 6

March 9, 2016

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 Relay Life Church. successful Merciad or for the Catholic Responses on any subject are always welcomed and can be emailed to opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

Voting Catholic: Where 2016 candidates stand on issues

By Mathew Jury Staff writer

As the presidential election heats up, I feel that some of us Catholic students should consider where the current candidates line up in accordance with Catholic teaching.

We are obliged to promote the common good through the act of voting, as stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church #2240. Catholic Answers Press published Voter’s Guide for Serious Catholics, exhorting Catholics to avoid voting for candidates supporting intrinsically evil laws “to the greatest extent possible.”

It listed five “non-negotiable issues” for Catholics to base their vote on, including abortion, euthanasia, embryonic stem cell research, human cloning and homosexual marriage.

I decided to find where our current mainstream presidential candidates stand on the issues above. For the information, I went to ontheissues.org, a good, but outdated resource to find out where candidates stand. Unfortunately, the website did not report on every issue, so I will report what I could find.

Beginning with the Democrats, Hillary Clinton wants abortion to be “safe, legal and rare,” and holds a 100 percent rating from NARAL Pro-

Choice of America. She voted yes to expanding embryonic stem cell research and recently stated that homosexual marriage should be law.

Bernie Sanders has consistently supported abortion rights and has voted to expand embryonic stem cell research.

He opposes defining marriage as being between one man and one woman and supports homosexual adoption.

Now for the Republicans, I will start with Donald Trump.

“The Donald” has a very inconsistent record regarding abortion, stating he was prochoice in 2000.

He then supported banning late-term abortions and called to defund Planned Parenthood in late 2015. Trump has also been inconsistent with the issue of marriage, stating in 2000 that he tolerated diversity, then stating in 2011 that he was opposed to homosexual partnership.

John Kasich has been relatively consistent in the prolife cause, calling to defund Planned Parenthood. He has stated his opposition to homosexual marriage, but argues that there are more important issues.

Ted Cruz opposes abortion and called for the shutdown and prosecution of Planned Parenthood. Cruz also opposes homosexual marriage, stating the 2015 Supreme Court ruling undermined the Constitution.

Marco Rubio leans pro-life with a 20-week abortion ban and states life begins at con-

Politifacts.com

Republican presidential candidates (from L to R) Marco Rubio, Donald Trump, Ted Cruz and John Kasich debate on March 3 in Detroit, MI.

ception while opposing funding for embryonic stem cell research. Rubio also opposes homosexual marriage, but respects the Supreme Court ruling and supports the right of states to decide upon it.

I acknowledge there are other important issues not covered in the Voter’s Guide and I intend to take a holistic approach.

I believe in today’s political climate that the issue of homosexual “mirage” pales in comparison to unborn genocide and the threat of ISIS. With my favorite candidate Dr. Ben Carson gone, I am extremely divided now.

If he did not support abortion, I would probably #feelthebern because of student debt. I dislike Trump because he is a highly contradictory bigot who does not know half

of what he is saying. I would not be surprised if he brokered a deal with Hillary to ruin the Republican campaign in her favor.

I am not here to tell students who to vote for, though some might argue so-called “Catholics” who support abortion and homosexual “mirage” should be denied the Holy Eucharist, perhaps even excommunicated, until they repent, based on interpretations of Canon 915.

However, I believe we all need to be aware as to where the candidates stand so we can vote carefully in the 2016 election. Either way, go out and vote.

Good The warm spring weather prompted multiple classes and study groups to take place outside Tuesday.

Bad Although the weather has been warm and sunny, there are still two long weeks until Spring Break...

Ugly A busted bench was spotted in front of campus Tuesday. Holy sit, who broke this bench?

@TheMerciad

Letter to the editor: Senior class gift of ‘anchor’ a campus-wide decision

By Sarah Gravante Contributing writer

Online

I am a member of this year’s Senior Class Gift Committee.

On behalf of the committee, I would like to address a few of the complaints/issues that you [the Merciad] stated in your article, “Senior Class ‘anchor’ gift idea sinks” in the March 2 edition of The Merciad.

First of all, the senior gift is meant to be just that-- a gift.

It is something that we are leaving behind to make our mark on the school.

Yes, in years past, some of the gifts have had a more functional purpose such as the study space in the library and the concession stand in the MAC. But, there have been many other gifts that have benefited the school by adding to the overall aesthetic of the Mercyhurst campus.

Additions such as the rock at the entrance of the campus, the stained glass windows in the Student Union Great Room, and the outdoor classroom have all been donated by previous senior classes and have become statement pieces

of Mercyhurst.

At the beginning of the year, those who wished to participate on the committee attended meetings where we brainstormed ideas for the gift. We had many different ideas including the anchor, charging stations, hydration stations, benches, a Laker statue, a fireplace, etc.

“

When you ask, ‘Who decided that our gift should be the anchor?’ you did...

”

Sarah Gravante

We voted on these choices as a group and sent the top five out in a survey to the senior class so that they could vote on which one they liked the most. From there, we took the top three choices and presented them to President Victor and his selection committee.

He and the board had the final decision on the matter and specifically chose the Mercyhurst Anchor. So when you asked, “Who decided that our gift should be the anchor?” you did, the administration did, we all did.

A strong student voice combined with the input of President Victor and the selection committee came to the determination that the anchor would be the best gift.

Since President Victor began working at Mercyhurst, he has placed a great deal of emphasis on Mercyhurst traditions.

He made it a point to bring back the ringing of the bells as well as created “Hurst Day,” which everyone loved and hopes will continue on in the future.

In addition to that, he has worked to increase Laker spirit and pride in all Mercyhurst students. I believe that he saw the Mercyhurst Anchor as another new possibility of creating long-lasting school traditions.

No, the anchor will not have any direct functional purpose, but it will serve as a symbol of good luck to all Mercyhurst students as well as stand as a

Read more at

merciad.mercyhurst.edu/opinion

reminder of the great history and tradition that Mercyhurst stands on.

Our fundraising goal of $10,000 may seem like a lot, but it is nowhere near enough to facilitate real change or improvement on campus.

We wish that we could do things like fix the parking garage or refurbish the apartments or build a new hang out space, but unfortunately, we do not have those kinds of resources.

Our goal as a committee and as a representation of the senior class is to leave a lasting mark on Mercyhurst that we can come back to in 10, 20 or 30 years and still see as the campus continues to grow and change around it.

Finally, the committee has been working very hard to raise money and support for this gift. As a whole, we do not appreciate all of the negativity directed towards our efforts.

So in the future, I would encourage you to look for the larger picture around things rather than jumping to conclusions based on your own assumptions. @TheMerciad

The Merciad Editors Sami Rapp Karah Hollis Catherine Rainey Jose Nufio Carly Contraguerro Jenny Sabliov Ryan Kushner Miranda L. Miller Margaret Urso Victoria Kreysar Bill Welch

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

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 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

March 9, 2016

Page 7

The Merciad

Sports Men’s basketball makes history

By Diego Himede Staff writer

The Mercyhurst University men’s basketball team made program history over the weekend of March 4 and 5 , defeating West Chester University, 70-67, in an intense PSAC Championship game.

To pull this off, they first had to defeat the Shippensburg Raiders who performed a solid game in the semifinals.

Mercyhurst scored 31 points in the first half, trailing by six at the half. The Lakers managed to overcome the Raiders’ defense by scoring 48 points in the second.

Leading the Lakers comeback was redshirt senior Gerrae Williams, who shot four-of-six 3 point shots.

Williams led the scoring for the Lakers with 20 points followed by senior Kayode Ajenifuja with 17.

The next day, the Lakers encountered the West Chester Golden Rams for the Championship game at their home court, the Hollinger Fieldhouse. Mercyhurst ranked the

No. 2 seed in the west and West Chester ranked the No. 2 seed in the east.

The Lakers had a harsh first half trailing by as many as 11 points and the Golden Rams took a 7-point lead at the half. Nonetheless, Mercyhurst stood up to them in the second half which led to their 3-point win.

During the second half, senior Jean Onana tied the game for the Lakers at 50.

Onana had seven unanswered points giving the Lakers their first lead since the beginning of the game.

The clock was winding down as the lead continued to switch between the Lakers and the Rams. In the last 37 seconds of the game the Lakers made two-of-four free throws ending the game with a 3-point advantage.

Mercyhurst finished its game with .490 field goal percentage, 34 rebounds, 17 turnovers and eight steals.

Onana led the scoring for the Lakers with 19 points, Ajenifuja finished the game with 14 points followed by senior Damon Jones with 13

and Williams with 11.

“The seniors played really well. It was a collective effort.

From the bench to the coach to the assistance. Everybody played hard,” junior Justin Senou said. He later stated that the key of their winning season is the team’s defense.

In fact, Jones and Ajenifuja were chosen for the All-PSAC Western Division Second Team before the semi finals game. With 471 and 388 points respectively, they both average more than 13 points per games, so far.

Senou commented that everyone feels confident in the team and that he knows his teammates play to win.

The seniors said that it is even more special since it is their last season as college basketball players.

The Lakers face No. 4 Wheeling Jesuit University Saturday, March 12, for the first round of the NCAA Tournament. The second round is Sunday against Kutztown or West Chester.

hurstathletics twitter photo

@TheMerciad

Men’s basketball won the PSAC Championship 70-67 over West Chester University for the first time in program history. The Lakers face No. 4 ranked Wheeling Jesuit in the NCAA Tournament.

Women’s hockey takes CHA title

By Haleigh Giebel Staff writer

The Mercyhurst women’s hockey team’s strong power play led to them becoming College Hockey America [CHA] Champions.

“You can’t buy the feeling of winning a championship,” said Head Coach Michael Sisti. “You have to work hard all season and earn it and I’m glad that our players are able to experience that.”

During the CHA America Semifinals the Lakers power play lifted them over Robert Morris University.

Senior Emily Janiga started off the scoring with a power play goal from freshman Rachael Smith and Sarah Hine at 15:53 in the first period.

Robert Morris tied the game at one at 12:11 in the second period, but the Lakers came back with another power play goal one minute and 43 sec-

onds later.

Sophomore Brooke Hartwick defeated Robert Morris’ goaltender to put the Lakers back up, 2-1. The assists on the go ahead goal went to Smith and Janiga.

Senior Jenna Dingeldein scored the Laker’s third power play goal of the game to put them up by two at 8:23 in the third period. Juniors Megan Whiddon and Paige Horton picked up the assists on the goal.

Robert Morris came back with a power play goal of their own, but it was not enough.

Laker senior Hannah Bale scored the empty netter to give the Lakers their 4-2 win over Robert Morris and advance to the championship game.

Mercyhurst outshot Robert Morris, 39-18, and freshman Sarah McDonnell stopped 16 shots.

“Our power play is a huge part of the game and has been getting better all season, but

hurstathletics.com photo

The Mercyhurst women’s hockey team celebrates after winning the CHA championship game, 4-3, in overtime over Syracuse.

we have not always gotten the results that we wanted from it,” said Sisti. “We put a lot of time into it and it was a huge turning point to our success this past weekend. We focused on it, bared down and capitalized on our chances.”

During the CHA Finals against Syracuse, the Lakers

scored twice on the power play to fuel the rest of the game.

Syracuse struck first in the second period, but the Lakers came back with two quick goals of their own a few minutes later. Both goals came on the power play.

Dingeldein found the back

of the net at 18:46 to tie the game at one. The tying goal was assisted by Horton and Janiga.

Twenty-nine seconds later, the Lakers received another power play chance and capitalized on it, to take their first lead of the game. The go-ahead goal was scored by Hine and assisted by Dingeldein and Horton.

Smith scored just 46 seconds into the third period to give the Lakers a 3-1 lead.

Syracuse picked up another goal at 17:08 in the third period and then scored again with 30 seconds left to tie the game at three and send it into overtime.

“It was disappointing when they came back to tie the game, but that’s where character comes in,” said Sisti. “Despite the frustration our girls kept playing and responded well to the challenge.”

Dingeldein picked up her second goal of the game, when

she beat Syracuse’s goaltender to win the game for the Lakers and give them the Championship title. The game-winning goal was assisted by Janiga and Smith.

Syracuse outshot Mercyhurst, 34-33, and McDonnell made 31 saves between the pipes, including six during overtime.

“The challenge now is to not let the season end next weekend,” said Sisti. “We will be underdogs, so we will have to work hard to get the berth to the Frozen Four.”

The Lakers head to Wisconsin to take on the No. 2 ranked Badgers in the NCAA quarterfinals on Saturday, March 12.

This marks the ninth time the Lakers and the Badgers have played against each other.

@TheMerciad

Analysis of CHA rookie of the year Baseball home runs

By Marco Cicchino Staff writer

Well-deserved congratulations are in order for the women’s hockey team after making a profound statement this past weekend at Buffalo’s HarborCenter.

After disposing Robert Morris with a flurry of attack, the Lakers took down an exhausted but spirited Syracuse squad in a hotly-contested 4-3 affair that required an extra 15 minutes of hockey for their first College Hockey America tournament title in three years.

Jenna Dingledein had the honor of sending home the game-winning goal on Saturday, March 5, sneaking home a rebound past Jenn Gilligan at 15:06 of the extra session to clinch not only the title, but also the tournament’s Most Valuable Player Award, finishing with three goals and four points in the two games.

Before that, however, the two finalists claimed a combined 18 awards on Thursday night, March 3, at the KickOff Banquet. Two freshmen

and former Stoney Creek Jr. Sabres were recognized, as Rachael Smith was named Rookie of the Year and Sarah McDonnell received the Goaltending Trophy, along with being named to the All-Tournament Team on Sunday, March 6.

McDonnell had a memorable freshman year, securing the starting job in September and went on to win 15 of her 25 regular-season decisions and posted a 1.54 goalsagainst average.

How did the Lakers do it?

Heading into the awards banquet on March 3, three main candidates for Rookie of the Year had emerged, yet Smith was never considered the front-runner for the award, and all three made the All-Rookie Team.

Despite leading the Lakers in the regular season with 25 points and 15 assists, first and second respectively among all CHA freshmen, and finishing second on the team with 10 goals, the two-way Smith was in a hotly-contested race with two fellow Ontarians.

In-fact, in an interview with the Merciad on Feb. 27, one

of Smith’s own teammates, fellow freshman Morgan Stacey, called Robert Morris forward Sarah Quaranta “our biggest competition” heading into the conference tournament.

Sarah Quaranta, a fellow member of the Jr. Sabres squad that won the Provincial Women’s Hockey League title last spring, tallied 19 assists but only found the back of the net five times this season on a Robert Morris squad that led the league in scoring by 16 goals over Syracuse and 22 over the Lakers.

Facing Smith and the strong defensive unit under CHA Coach of the Year, Michael Sisti, she was held to just three points on a goal and two assists, and seven shots over five games, won only 43.2 percent of her draws, and suffered a -3 rating.

On the other hand, Smith was able to penetrate the Colonials for 12 shots, contributing two goals and three assists and had a +2 rating, including a +3 in the big 4-0 road shutout on Feb. 5.

Despite playing five fewer games, Smith had the best

of Quaranta in all four major per-game categories, and Quaranta recorded a goal and two assists before Smith had yet to play.

Meanwhile, Shannon Morris-Reade, a native of Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, began to make her mark on a hard-working Lindenwood squad from the very beginning, scoring eight points in September and October, but fell off with just two points in November and four each in January and February. Against the Lakers, she was on-par with Smith in almost every category, with both players held to a combined three assists and 20 shots in four contests, but Smith’s Lakers won three of them.

In-fact, Smith went 6-1-1 against her counterparts, the Lakers outscoring their opposition, 25-12, over those contests. Per-game, Smith had the highest averages at .32 goals, .48 assists, and .806 points per game, not including the Tournament.

@TheMerciad

fire weekend series

By Carly Contraguerro Sports editor

The baseball team swept Glenville State College over the weekend of March 5 and 6 with a nine-inning game on Saturday and a double header on Sunday.

Saturday’s 13-4 win was a thrilling game to watch with four players hitting home runs.

“Everyone in the line was seeing the ball great. We were focused on our approach as a team,” junior Chris Gonzalez said.

The Lakers scored first with a three-run bomb in the first inning by Gonzalez. He recorded four RBIs during the game.

The next three-run homer came off the bat of junior Cam Balego in the fifth inning to put the Lakers up 8-1.

Balego had three RBIs on the day.

A solo home run in the sixth by senior Austin Alonge put the Lakers up 9-1.

Glenville scored four runs

during the seventh inning.

In the eighth inning Steven McCaw hit a two-run home run.

Redshirt junior pitcher Colin Mckee picked up the win on the mound.

“It was a great feeling to contribute to the win. It felt amazing, too, since it was opening weekend for us at home,” Gonzalez said.

In game one on Sunday, senior Hank Morrison batted in senior Brendan Cox to give the Lakers a one run lead.

During the third inning, sophomore Dan Elliot hit a solo home run.

Redshirt senior pitcher Joe Gnacinksi picked up the 4-1 win.

Glenville scored first in game two during the second inning but that run was answered by junior Jimmy Latona who singled, scoring Balego and Gonzalez.

Gonzalez hit his second home run of the weekend in the third and the Lakers won, 5-1. Senior pitcher Cam Knott picked up the win.

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