ONLINE POLL RESULTS Did you participate in TOMS Club's 'One Day Without Shoes'? Barefoot all day! 11% Yes, it's a great cause. 17% I didn't really want to get my feet wet. 40% I don't really agree with the organization. 31%
MORE INSIDE & ONLINE Ripley receives award
Boyle raises awareness
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Ouegnin in run for College Dunk of the Year VOL. 86 No. 20 4 / 24 / 2013
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NEWS
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April 24, 2013
EMTA cancels downtown route Weekend night route not running as a result of disrespectful behavior By Zach Dorsch Photo editor
Sami Rapp photo
The Erie Metro Transit Authority will not be shuttling Mercyhurst University students downtown from Thursday, April 25, through Sunday, April 29.
Social work hosts dinner By Stacy Skiavo News editor
Thanks to senior social work majors, babies in Erie will have a safe sleeping environment for at least a year’s time. As their senior project the group selected a spaghetti dinner to raise funds for the Children’s Miracle Network, which will then give funds to the Cribs and Kids agency. This agency provides cribs or pack n’ plays to babies in order for them to have a safe place to sleep and prevent sudden infant syndrome. Each year, the seniors choose a subject for their project that advocates awareness in some way. This year, they chose to make the community aware of sudden infant syndrome and created a fundraiser to help prevent it. The idea developed from senior Natalie Magoc. “At Saint Vincent I heard from my supervisor that they give pack n’ plays, but needed funding to supply them to Hamot and Millcreek hospitals,” Magoc said. Saint Vincent Health Center has a fund through the Children’s Miracle Network, but does not always have enough funding for the demand of cribs needed in the area.
The fundraiser of a spaghetti dinner was chosen as a doable option to raise as much money as possible. The dinner was Saturday, April 13, at Saint Mark’s Episcopal Church on Old French Road. Expectations were high for the support, but the students had no idea how good it would be. “We were hoping for a good turn out and thought we would had a good amount of people, but we had no idea that we would have so many,” Magoc said. More than $2,000 was raised, along with $300 more that will be given from Mercyhurst Student Activities Council. These funds will provide enough for about 46 cribs that will help infants in Erie for a year. Senior Emily Iabone also saw the event went well. “The dinner was such a success based on the support from our friends, family and the community,” said Iabone. “The community donated all of our supplies for the dinner.” Aside from dinner sales, money was also raised in a 50/50 and Chinese auction. Donations were given from several companies that included Romolo, Vicious Rumors and Avon.
The Erie Metro Transit Authority (EMTA) will be canceling its downtown weekend route from Thursday, April 25, through Sunday, April 29, due to inappropriate behavior on the bus. The students were responsible for creating an unsafe environment, and acting in a way that goes against Mercyhurst’s core values, which the university tries hard to uphold. Students will have to provide their own transpiration this weekend if they plan on going downtown. Junior Bobby Summer could understand why the transit authority was upset, but does not think the behavior was more outrageous than it usually is. “I think they should expect these sorts
of shenanigans,” Summer said. “If they were to close down permanently, that raises the possibility of kinds drinking and driving.” The bus route will be on hiatus this weekend. However, EMTA will resume the weekend service beginning May 2. If student behavior improves, the bus service will continue to run until the end of the year. If students continue to act inappropriately, the service will be canceled for the rest of the year. Cancellation this year could also mean that students next year would also lose the services. When asked about the changes to the bus schedule, junior Kristen McKinson said, “Being an international student, I have no means of getting around in Erie. The bus system allowed me and my other international friends to explore downtown without worrying about cab fares.”
NEWS
April 24, 2013
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Student’s mom succeeds in Boston Marathon Karey Elliott finished an hour before explosion, witnessing the tragedy By Juan Mendez Staff writer
In spite of the chaos struck by the bombs that exploded near the finish line at the annual Boston marathon on April 15, the victors shone through the catastrophe: the runners. Among the group was Karey Elliott, resident of North East and mother to sophomore graphic design major Kelsey Elliott. Karey, who had participated in various marathons prior to her first Boston marathon in 2012, finished the 26.2-mile race with a time of 3:25:02, surpassing her time from last year. “I wanted to redeem myself,” said Karey, “I had a bad race last year, at least in my perspective, and I wanted to do it well this time.” She finished the race about an hour before the first explosion went off,
Mercyhurst University Police & Safety
only meeting Kelsey, accompanied by her roommate Jennifer Ecklund, minutes before the bomb exploded. “The city was so loud and happy and it suddenly became quiet. When the second bomb went off, it still hadn’t clicked,” said Karey Elliott. “I couldn’t think of any other possible explanation for what it could be when the second one, which was closer to us, went off.” Kelsey, Karey and Jennifer were less than two blocks away from where the first explosion occurred near the finish line. The last mile of the race was dedicated to the victims of the Sandy Hook shooting in Newtown, Conn. As with everyone else, the group’s first response was to run away, the fear that a third explosion would happen at any time on everyone’s minds, the uncertainty of its location even more nerve-wracking. “It all smelled horrible, it was loud; people were screaming and you could barely hear it over the sirens,” Karey said.
Police Log
Thursday, April 18 Harassment by Communication Warde Hall Referred for discipline Saturday, April 20 Defiant Trespass Warde Hall Resident life incident Saturday, April 20 Trespass 3908 Briggs Ave. Referred for discipline Monday, April 22 Theft REC Center Referred for discipline
Terror took over the celebration in a matter of seconds, with some people rendered unable to finish the race due to the panic that was unraveling throughout the city. However, Elliott did not let the tragedy obscure her experience or anyone else’s. “It is so inspiring to see people with smiles across their faces as they finish. It is supposed to be a celebration, and it made me so mad that someone ruined it,” said Kelsey Elliott. “It didn’t stop people from coming together. People were coming up to my mom and congratulating her and everyone else, because it really is an achievement.” Karey affirmed her determination to do it again, regardless of the events. “In the face of destruction, people are bound to rebuild. You stole Boston’s joy for one day, but you won’t steal it forever,” she said.
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Kelsey and Karey Elliott reunited only minutes before the first explosion went off near the finish line.
‘Hurst bookstore listed in collegiate honor roll By Alison Hosko Staff writer
The Mercyhurst University Bookstore was named to the 2013 Collegiate Retailer of the Year Honor Roll this year for collegiate retailing excellence. The bookstore was nominated anonymously by book, supply and clothing vendors it works with, joining 17 other institutions in recognition. Such vendors go to thousands of university bookstores across the country and judge the presentation of each store and the students who work there. “It’s a big honor to accept the nomination,” Mercyhurst University Bookstore manager Dan Cullen said. National Association of College Stores (NACS), has been in place for over 30 years and oversaw the award. The association knows how vital bookstores are, and how bookstores can give back and want to recognize that. The Mercyhurst University Bookstore competed with bookstores such as those from California State University, Boise State University, the University of Tennessee and York College.
Salina Bowe photo
The bookstore provides students with everything from Laker gear to stationery and textbooks. By keeping it simple, doing its best and maintaining high standards, The Mercyhurst University Bookstore continues to prove its spot on the nomination list. “We do our best to be smart and know the customer,” Cullen said. “We stick with trends that are good for Mercyhurst.” Instead of making it about profits, the bookstore makes it about serving the students and the community.
The Mercyhurst University Bookstore being named to the Collegiate Retailer Award Honor Roll benefits not only the bookstore, but also the university itself. “It says a lot about the hard work Mercyhurst does on campus,” Cullen said. By working ethically, The Mercyhurst University Bookstore makes a name not just for itself, but for the university as a whole as well.
NEWS
Page 4 Student charged with sex assault Erie Police charged a Mercyhurst University freshman on April 17 on charges of sexually assaulting an Erie woman near the Mercyhurst campus in January. Charged with aggravated indecent assault and indecent assault was Joseph Bostrom, 18, of Baden, Pa., according to court records. Following arraignment, he was released on $25,000 bond. The criminal complaint against Bostrom says a young woman reported the alleged incident to Erie Police on Jan. 20. The victim told police she had passed out that night and then awoke with her pants and underclothes off and the alleged assaulter pant-less trying to put on a condom. She told police she later learned from a mutual acquaintance that Bostrom had sexually touched her, according to the complaint. While being interviewed by a police detective on April 11, Bostrom allegedly admitted to the allegations that he assaulted the woman while she was unconscious, police said in the criminal complaint. Bostrom was an offensive lineman on the Mercyhurst football team during the 2012 season. Gerard Tobin, Ph.D., Mercyhurst vice president for student life, said he does not know Bostrom’s status as an athlete. The student handbook defines expulsion as a possible resolution when a student faces a claim of sexual harassment or sexual assault. Tobin said all information will be considered before a final judgment has been made.
April 24, 2013
Archaeology department’s expertise sought at Old Vero site
Excavations conducted at Ice Age-era site in Fla. By Stefani Baughman Staff writer
Executive Director of the Archaeological Institute James M. Adovasio, Ph.D., and the Mercyhurst Archaeological Institute (MAI) are helping to create an excavation strategy for the Old Vero Man site in Vero Beach, Fla. They are working alongside the Old Vero Ice Age Sites Committee (OVIASC) on this project, which could potentially yield one of the most significant Ice Age sites in North America. The MAI was contacted last year regarding the excavation at Vero. To prepare, Mercyhurst received sediment core samples to analyze. “The sediment cores allow us to gather information about the site which will help us determine where to excavate,” noted MAI Lab Direc-
tor Anne Marjenin “Essentially, the cores give us a preview of the site.” To take full advantage of the amount of time given for an excavation, Marjenin noted the team is “considering enclosing the site in a portable structure which would protect the excavation and allow the excavators to work even during inclement weather.” Initial excavations of the site, though limited, were performed at the site in 1915 and 1916. The notable part of this site is that human remains were found, potentially alongside small and large Ice Age animals, as well as plants of the period. This association could date the human remains at about 13,000 to 14,000 years old. Such sites are rare in North America, so their validity is disputed among archaeologists. The Meadowcroft Rockshelter, which is situated in southwestern Pennsylvania, is one such site. Adovasio has been a prin-
cipal investigator of Meadowcroft, which is still considered to contain some of the oldest evidence of humans in eastern North America. Marjenin also noted that excavation of Vero will be difficult, as the site is only several miles off the east coast of Florida and contains very sandy sediment. “We will employ the Mercyhurst Archaeological Institute excavation methodology during the project, but may also need to use some additional techniques and equipment,” Marjenin said. Though fundraising and donations are needed for the partnership to start excavating, it is projected to begin in December. The project archaeologist for OVIASC is C. Andrew Hemmings, a researcher and faculty member of Mercyhurst University. Although there is no set time frame yet for completion of the excavation, it could take several months to complete.
Ripley receives award for teaching excellence By Kierston Bromley Staff writer
Many students have that professor, or professors, who went above and beyond to provide an excellent learning environment for their students. One such professor at Mercyhurst University is Brian Ripley, Ph.D., tenured professor of political science, who was recently awarded the Teaching Excellence Award. Ripley, as well as other professors at Mercyhurst, consider teaching their number one priority when they come into work every day. To be considered an excellent teacher is both humbling and thrilling, according to Ripley. “I love my field, and I work to maintain current by reading a lot of the most recent work by top scholars so I can incorporate that into my presentations,” Ripley said about how he stays in top form when teaching. This is not by far Ripley’s only experience winning an award recognizing his accomplishments in teaching. At the
University of Pittsburgh, his first job out of graduate school, he was awarded the Chancellor’s Distinguished Teaching Award in his third year. “It helped me realize how important teaching is to me, personally,” said Ripley. “And it influenced me to apply for the job at Mercyhurst where I know teaching is valued so highly.” Ripley teaches Theories of International Relations, which deals with the way that social scientists understand the dynamics of world politics. His second major is Decision Making in American Foreign Policy. In this area he teaches students about what goes into a country’s decision to use or not use military force as well as what happens when leaders do or do not listen to their political and military advisers, among other areas. His commitment to teaching is reflected in the regard his students have for him. According to senior Alethea Gaarden, Ripley is a perfect fit to be recognized for excellence in teaching. “Dr. Ripley is hardworking, conscientious and engaging,” said Gaarden. “He really wants to see his students succeed, so he always makes time to answer emails and check over essays.”
She noted that even when Ripley was busy, his office door was open for students to visit about class performance or just to talk over current world events. Gaarden also deeply values Ripley’s commitment to academics and presenting them in a manner that students can digest and understand. “His lectures are always engaging and funny, but it’s obvious that he takes the material he’s teaching seriously, and he wants students to take it seriously, too,” Gaarden said. Junior Courtney Naughton agrees. “He poses challenging questions to make the students think as well as encouraging the students to voice their opinions,” said Naughton. “What makes him an excellent professor is the way he engages the students in his lectures and provides modern, real life examples [with which] the student can relate.” Ripley is a professor who wants to see his students not only do well in their studies but also enjoy what they are learning, qualities of an excellent professor and a good choice for the Teaching Excellence Award.
Caroline Magoc photo
Brian Ripley, Ph.D., will be honored with the Teaching Excellence Award for the 2012-2013 academic year.
FEATURES
April 24, 2013
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Barry starts Exercise for All Initiative By Daniel Tarr Staff writer
Exercise is known to be an important part of staying fit and healthy, however, some people do not have the time in the day to exercise. If you’re one of those who can’t find the time to exercise, or are simply not motivated enough, you are in luck. A new movement, called the Exercise for All Initiative, is going into effect at Mercyhurst. The initiative was started by sophomore exercise science major Kevin Barry. Barry started this initiative for his Principles of Health Promotion class taught by Professor Tim Harvey. Barry started the initiative because he felt that the campus does not promote good health very well to students who are not considered athletes. “Non-athletes do not have regularly scheduled exercise routines, and gener-
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Barry started this initiative to get students physically active. ally are not as educated when it comes to physical activity and health,” said Barry. “The time has come to stop neglecting
non-athletes, and begin the education and implementation of physical activity and its accompanying benefits.” The overall goal of this initiative is to get non-athletic students to increase their physical activity levels. Barry says that students should be meeting guidelines for physical activity. These guidelines include 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise a week and 60 minutes of vigorous exercise a week. According to Barry, research has shown that increased physical activity can decrease the likelihood of diseases such as coronary heart disease, heart attacks and strokes. Increased activity will also reduce one’s blood pressure and LDL (bad) cholesterol, while increasing one’s HDL (good) cholesterol, all of which are important components of health. There are two parts to the Exercise for All Initiative. The first part, which lasts for one week is all about educating participating students about physical activity. The two
Strausbaugh writes the history of Mercyhurst By Chelsea Schermerhorn Copy editor
Mercyhurst is a university that takes pride in its rich and vivid history. This is especially evident in the Ambassador’s program where students are tasked with the responsibility of knowing and repeating that information to prospective incoming students and their families. Up until just recently, though, there was no comprehensive written history. Roy Strausbaugh, Ph.D. has changed that. Strausbaugh received his Ph.D. from Case Western University and was a tenured professor of history at Edinboro University until his retirement in 1993. In 1994, he came to Mercyhurst and starting serving in various positions and now holds the title of Visiting Professor of History. Six years ago, Strausbaugh approached President Tom Gamble, Ph. D., noting the lack of a comprehensive history of Mercyhurst. Having already written a history of Edinboro University, Strausbaugh proposed that he do so for Mercyhurst as well. “It needed to be done,” Strausbaugh said. The book covers many aspects of Mercyhurst’s history, from the found-
ing of the college by the Sisters of Mercy to going co-ed in the 1960s and up to the year 2000. Strausbaugh noted that he chose 2000 for the cutoff because he wanted to remain distanced from the current life of the university. “I have a very firm opinion that for historians to do their jobs, there has to be some time passed. We’re not journalists and we don’t want to be journalists,” Strausbaugh said. The founding of the university is especially interesting, according to Strausbaugh, because of “the tenacity of the pioneer sisters, the ones who developed the dream to develop a college in Erie and how they did it without any money. To start out from scratch to build a college, they had to be very, very committed to the enterprise.” The superior of the Sisters of Mercy in Crawford and Erie counties, Mother Borgia Egan, worked to establish a college that would allow young women to continue their education. The name “Mercyhurst” was chosen as a combination of the word “mercy” with an Anglo Saxon word that approximately means “grove of trees.” Though Mercyhurst was originally intended as a college for young women, the institution became coeducational in the late 1960s after the change to the
trimester system created complications in student exchanges between Gannon and Mercyhurst. A decline in enrollment at Mercyhurst influenced this change heavily. Financially, the change was necessary because women were increasingly transferring to and enrolling in coeducational institutions. Over time, the college began to change and grow, responding to students and community alike. Strausbaugh’s book ends on the coming of the college into a new century and the regaining of the Catholic heritage that had built it from the ground up through the Sisters of Mercy. Mercyhurst has expanded its influence greatly and become one of the top institutions for higher education in the United States. It has an ever-growing impact on the experience of university education. When asked how he thinks Mercyhurst may shape higher education in the future, Strausbaugh said that it depends on how the university responds to the larger questions that are being asked of higher education. “As an institution, Mercyhurst is committed to student success. As a liberal arts university, I think it’s in a sweet spot,” Strausbaugh said.
week second part is about the students using what they learned and increasing their exercise and physical activity. Barry hopes the initiative will get students out of what is called the pre-contemplation stage, which is where someone does not exercise at all and does not plan to. He hopes to bring them into another stage called the contemplation stage and then finally the action stage. The contemplation stage is where students now have knowledge and a background in the benefits that physical activity may bring, and may decide that these benefits will be conductive towards their health. The action stage is where students begin a regular exercise schedule to achieve its benefits. Barry says that exercise tips will be given in small brochures. These brochures will be given out in places such as the Carolyn Herrmann Student Union and Egan Dining Hall. Barry believes that classes such as
yoga, spinning, body sculpt and pilates need to be advertised better around campus. “Few signs can be found around campus in regards to these classes, yet most of the advertising for these classes is in the gym itself, where the student is already active,” Barry said. Students do not directly sign up for the Exercise for All Initiative. It is done this way so students can try everything risk free and without future obligations. Barry encourages faculty and staff to raise their physical activity as well, but it is specifically modeled for students. “The adolescent years are where most people form habits, whether positive or negative,” said Barry. “If exercise can be introduced during these years as a habit, it will enhance one’s overall health throughout their lifetime.” For more information about the Exercise for All Initiative, please contact Kevin Barry at kbarry34@lakers.mercyhurst.edu.
Campus Ministry plans mound trip By Brady Greenawalt Contributing writer
A group of students involved in Campus Ministry will soon embark on a day-long tour of a part of American history that is often forgotten and neglected, and it’s right in our own backyard. Saturday, April 27, the group will get up at 4 a.m. to visit four ancient mounds that were built thousands of years ago by Native American tribes. They will be visiting mound sites that are scattered throughout Ohio, including two of the most famous Native American sites in the north, Mound City and Serpent Mound. Campus Ministry Graduate Assistant and chaperone for the trip, David Parker, had visited these mounds while he was an undergraduate at Youngstown State University. “Until you see it, you don’t know how amazing it is,” Parker said. The first site the group will visit is Mound City in Ross County, Ohio. The mounds there were built by the Hopewell indigenous group nearly 2,000 years ago. The last stop on the trip will be Fort Ancient in Warren County, Ohio, which not only consists of mounds but also ancient stone structures.
“It’s one huge day of driving,” said Parker. “We’ve been mulling the idea of going on this trip for about three years… and finally we got down to it and said ‘why can’t we do it?’.” Parker hopes that the trip will educate students on the extensive history of the Native Americans that started long before Europeans arrived to the continent. “When we talk about Native Americans we always think about the 1700s and the 1800s… but 13,000 years ago there were people living here in this area, not just getting along but thriving,” Parker said. These mounds are not just a testament to the rich post-colonial history of the country, they are also a way for people to diversify their knowledge of religious traditions. “With this tour we are trying to tie Native Americans to modern day students,” Parker said. “And we’re trying to do it through understanding about beliefs, and rituals and practice.” The group is planning on returning to campus about 11 p.m. on Saturday. At the time of the interview, there were still five spots left for people interested in attending the mound tour. If you are interested, contact Campus Ministry Graduate Assistant David Parker at vdrjtwo@gmail.com.
FEATURES
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April 24, 2013
Boyle raises Re-Fashion Show encourages students eating disorder to recycle old clothing awareness By Abigail Robinson Staff writer
The Mercyhurst Fashion Promotion class taught by Professor Erin Magorien will be hosting a Re-Fashion show on Thursday, May 2, at 8 p.m. in the Student Union Great Room. The juniors and seniors in the class came up with a unique spin on their annual fashion show. This year’s show will take gently used clothing and ‘up-cycle’ (re-cycle with an up-scale flare) the clothing into current and trendy attire. Fashion Merchandising junior Emily Isbell said the theme of ‘re-fashion’ stresses a “do what you can with what you have” mentality. “As college students, we don’t have the money to constantly be buying the hottest trends, so it is vital for us to re-purpose our wardrobe to stay current, and on budget,” said junior Valeria Silva Esteves. “Not only will this fashion show focus on re-purposed outfits, but it will also include garments made from unconventional materials such as newspapers, and magazine covers.” All 13 students in the class have been working on various elements of the event in order for it to come together. The event is separated into four distinct themes: “DIY Fashion,”
Sami Rapp photo
Fashion students advertise event on creative poster. “Garbage to Gorgeous,” “Local Treasures” and “T-Shirt Transformations.” Students have been working on organizational tasks for the event, collecting donations, re-constructing garments and marketing the show. The students are collecting gently used garments to donate to the Caring Closet which provides clothing to needy families in the Erie area free of charge. The students will also donate all ticket sales and wearable outfits
from the fashion show to the Caring Closet. If you bring a gently used item of clothing to be donated, you will be entered into a raffle to win one of the fabulous prizes donated to the Mercyhurst Fashion Department by a local Erie business. Juniors Emily Adamski and Emily Isbell are leading the efforts on this fashion show with the help of the following students: Isabella Cardina, Gage Carrig, Anna Foll, Ava Hlad, Anna Hoover, Erin Knepper, Jazmyne Lewis, Leanne Robinson, Maximilian Schroeck, Valeria Silva Esteves and Allison Voltz, along with the more than 50 volunteers modeling for the event. “Planning this event has been a great opportunity for the class. We all have our specific jobs but are constantly working together to deliver a great show,” Esteves said. “I hope the audience finds the re-purposed clothes appealing and will be inspired to make their own, as well as understand the importance of recycling in our world today.” Tickets are $3 for adults and $1 for students and will be available at the door. For more information, contact Erin Magorien at 814-824-2510 or emagorien@mercyhurst.edu.
By Kayla Kelly Features editor
Starting Monday, April 22, Mercyhurst will be having its first ever Eating Disorder Awareness Week. Senior Rhona Boyle decided to bring this to Mercyhurst to raise awareness of eating disorders. It is a serious mental illness that affects many people around the world, particularly adolescent and college-aged women. “People tend to think of eating disorders as ‘lifestyle choice’ when in fact they are complex and potentially fatal mental illnesses,” said Boyle. “And there is an insignificant amount of awareness raised for this class of disorders.” Not only is the week helping to raise awareness, but it is also focused on promoting a positive body image, healthy eating and a balanced lifestyle. “A healthy, balanced lifestyle guarantees happiness and self-love, which we all need more of,” Boyle said. Boyle gained several volunteers through friends and peers to help out with the movement. In addition, some of her personal “Mercyhurst mentors” have volunteered to help her send her message to the Mercyhurst community. Cohen Health Center Counselor Lee Shadeck supports Boyle’s idea and shared his thoughts on the theme of the events. “I think that what Rhona is doing by bringing this subject to light here at Mercyhurst and attempting to incorporate positive body image, healthy eating, healthy habits and balance in life makes perfect sense, and is what we attempt to assist students with here at the Counseling Center,” Shadeck said. Monday through Friday will be daily events that students are encouraged to attend. They are meant to incorporate all aspects of the person, body, mind and spirit. Monday kicked off the week with the “Mirrorless Monday” challenge. Students are meant to examine their “mirror monologue” with themselves. The week will also include speaker Rosalind Creasy on “Transforming your Home and Health through Edible Landscaping,” a discussion on body image, the showing of the film
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Poster displays events planned for the Awareness Week. “Someday Melissa” and a special yoga class to help promote an appreciation for one’s body. Shadeck is attending the speaker and documentary to answer questions that anyone might have. Vice President for Student Life Gerard Tobin, Ph.D., thinks this is an important topic to bring to Mercyhurst. “Bringing awareness to this important issue may save a life and we will never know. If each of us could believe we are loved as we are, the powerful influence of media regarding body image would be lessened,” Tobin said. This awareness week is important to Boyle because she struggled with an eating disorder that made her realize how damaging the effects can be. Boyle wants to help others who are currently struggling with an eating disorder and to help prevent students from falling into this disorder by educating them through the activities she is providing. She hopes that this week will help students learn from her past, personal experiences and recognize the helpful resources available on campus. “As a prominent student leader I feel a sense of responsibility to tell my peers, ‘Hey I battled an eating disorder and I recovered,’” Boyle said. To learn more about these events, contact Rhona Boyle at rboyle77@ lakers.mercyhurst.edu.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
April 24, 2013
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Life-like figurines line Zurn hallways Local Events By Garrett Erwin Staff Writer
The Mercyhurst Art Department is always giving students the opportunity to display their various talents of work that they do in the classroom. Walking through Zurn Hall, one may notice life size figurines made of various types of materials. These figurines belong to the creative hands of students in the 3-Dimensional art class, taught by Professor Tom Hubert. “The purpose of the project was to examine the human body and then creatively recreate a figurine using different media,” freshman Jena Skelton said. Skelton used a mix of burlap, planting foam and moss glued altogether. The 3-D class is the third course that is taken during the foundation year of all art programs. At this point, students going through the art department for their degree have attained the basic knowledge of the elements and principles of design through basic art classes. These basic methods were put to use in order to create these works of art. Students started by creating thumbnail sketches of possible ideas, and proceeded to translate those 2-dimensional drawings into a 3-dimensional figurine that had to be a minimum of three feet tall and a maximum of a fullsized body figure. “The students had approximately two weeks to work on their sculptures, and they presented one at a time to
the class with an oral introduction on how each student successfully accomplished the assignment objectives and how they could improve,” said Hubert. “The class then provides feedback in a critique of each work.” Not only was this project about being creative, but also it was about expressing common motions of the human body. Freshman Jordan Cargill used packaging tape and wrapping paper to create his figurine. “We had to express movement through the figure to show proper design and concentrate on placing the body in a certain position that expressed the human nature,” said Cargill. Walking by, you will notice the various types of media that were put to use. From paint and puzzle pieces, to garbage and fabric and tooth picks, the art pieces certainly attracts attention in as students walk past. Hubert mentioned that some of the pieces have interior lighting that would not be seen as displayed in the hallway, so students have an opportunity to display their pieces in appropriate settings. Other students aimed towards functionality while creating their pieces. Freshman Salina Bowe used foam core board so that she did not have to build an interior structure, but painted the centerpieces to give a sense of definition. “This work was a sort of continuation from a small wire figure that we
had to create for class,” said Bowe. “The stance of my figure is the same as that pose to show the different contours of the body.” The figurines are certainly an interesting installation, and can be viewed
in the hallway that leads to the dance space and the ceramics studio. For more information about certain medias used, contact Tom Hubert at thubert@mercyhurst.edu.
8 p.m. Dress for Success Business Club Fashion Show Mercy Heritage Room Friday, April 26: 2:15 & 7:15 p.m. What We Need is the Impossible Performing Arts Center Saturday, April 27: 8 p.m. Jazz Ensemble Concert Performing Arts Center Taylor Rollins photo
The 3-dimensional sculptures are on display in Zurn Hall.
Sounds of St. Lucia sets playlist By Zach Dorsch
Photography editor
Online
Summer is just around the corner (any place other than Erie that is), and it is time to put away those sweaters and bring out the shorts and wayfarers. Almost as important as bringing out those summer duds is creating the perfect soundtrack for your summertime listening. Over the next couple of weeks I will be reviewing bands that will help you put together your own customized summer playlist. The first band, St. Lucia, will give
you just what you need for a late night beach party or for just relaxing by the pool. Jean-Philip Grobler is the genius behind this synth-pop band. Originally from South Africa, Grobler spent his childhood touring with the Drakensberg Boys Choir School. After some schooling in London, he moved to New York to build a studio and record what would become St. Lucia’s debut album, “St. Lucia.” The name St. Lucia fits Grobler‘s music perfectly. His tracks are lush, warm and lucid, just like the beautiful Caribbean Islands. If that doesn’t put it into perspective, think of the Lionel
Full list of events can be found on the PAC website
Thursday, April 25:
Richie track “All Night Long.” If you don’t believe me, check out the track “Closer Than This.” The warm synths and group vocals feel like you are dancing at a moonlit beach party. By the end of the song ,you will be belting out “I got a feeling we will never get closer than this.” Stepping away from the beachy vibe, “Before the Dive” is my favorite track on the album. I don’t know if it is the clangy piano part or the super catchy chorus that made me fall in love with this song, but it will definitely be one of my favorites all summer. The chorus, “I hope that we will never forget, seeing sinners of the night,”
reminds me of adventures in the city. It invokes those underworld feelings that can be both mysterious and dangerous to encounter. “Got It Wrong,” sounds like it came right out of the ‘80s and I don’t mean it in a bad way. This song kicks off with an electric drum kit while you hear tribal chanting in the background. Then it turns into full luau mode with steel drums and dance club synth lines. The whole package is perfectly blended with male and female vocals. I hope this band speaks to you as much as it did to me and creates the building blocks for a wonderful summer playlist.
View upcoming performances: www.pac.mercyhurst.edu
Sunday, April 28: Noon - 5 p.m. Ponibrothers LLC & Erie Explosion Charity Art Auction Erie Insurance Arena 2 p.m. Mercyhurst Composer’s ConcertWalker Recital Hall
www.merciad.mercyhurst. edu/arts_entertainment
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
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April 24, 2013
Students offer new music in annual Composer’s Concert By Mathew Anderson A&E editor
The Mercyhurst Music Department is often known for its displays of student talent throughout the year through the performance of works of music, but what about those students who are on the other side—the ones writing the breathtaking music that musicians perform? The brilliant minds behind the music will have a chance to showcase their creative spirit at the Composer’s Concert this weekend, Sunday, April 28, at 4:30 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall in the Audrey Hirt Academic Center. The sense of camaraderie for the whole event is astounding. From a professional string quartet based in Cleveland to Mercyhurst Alumni and even a few of the composers themselves, the concert should prove to be a spectacle to be beheld. Student composer and sophomore Ian Gayford is having three separate works presented at the concert.
The “Hubble Quartet,” which will be performed by the Thalia Quartet, is comprised of graduates of Cleveland Institute of Music. The Hubble Quartet will be accompanied by actual images that were taken by the Hubble Telescope. Another of Gayford’s most exciting works is a collection of motives and pieces for the production of “Eurydice” that was performed two weeks ago at Taylor Little Theatre. Although this is the Eurydice Suite’s second premiere, this will be the first time the set of works will be performed live for an audience. “The experience of writing these pieces has really helped me to stretch myself as an artist, giving me further insight into my musical vocabulary. “Although writing was never really easy, it was certainly worth it and I hope the audience will find the experience as moving as I did.” Gayford said. Another very exciting piece of music that is being premiered is sophomore Bobby Lucas’s “Quartet for
Langer Film Series presents:
Margin Call Taylor Little Theatre
Friday, May 3, at 2:15 and 7:15 p.m.
the End of the World,” which was inspired by events that have happened on campus. Due to the water shortage on Jan. 21 and the evacuation of campus, Lucas got enough inspiration to compose three of the four basic themes. When asked about his work, Lucas said, “the world didn’t end, so I got to finish it— which was cool.” Junior Luke Allport-Cohoon has composed many works at Mercyhurst, but at this concert he is premiering a work titled “Dueling Trumpets,” which involve two trumpet players who are playing two differing styles of music— jazz and classical. “I was inspired to write the piece when I heard two trumpet players practicing in D’Angelo at the same time,” Allport-Cohoon said. “One was playing some classical concerto and the other was playing a jazz chart, so I went and wrote a piece that tried to capture those ideas, of classical versus jazz.” The Composer’s Concert features many more works made possible through the creative spirits of the
Met HD Live:
Giulio Cesare by Handel
Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center Saturday, May 11, 2013 at 12 p.m. pac.mercyhurst.edu photo
Approx. Runtime: 4 1/2 hours
students of Mercyhurst. Please don’t miss this opportunity to hear great music being premiered by professionals, faculty and student performers.
The concert is in the Walker Recital Hall on Sunday, April 28, at 4:30 p.m. The performance is free and open to the public.
James Conley expresses emotion in photography By Mathew Anderson A&E editor
pac.mercyhurst.edu photo
Contributed photo
Student composers working on various new pieces of music in Dr. Glinksy’s Composer’s Workshop course.
While wandering to and from class every day, I pass quite a few pieces of art and examples of the creativity through artistic media from sculpture to paintings and photography. One set of photos in particular caught my eye when I noticed the amount of passion and examples of human emotion captured in just a few shots. Junior James Conley attended the “March for Life” event on Jan. 25, in Washington D.C. The exhibit, which shares the same name as the anti-abortion event, features what seems to be a case study of people in their natural habitats, as no shot is staged in the collection. “It was the weekend we all were supposed to leave campus due to the water leak, and as I made plans to go home, the opportunity to go to the march arose, and having gone several years in the past I kind of figured ‘why not’,” Conley. said. “It was a really last minute decision
to go but I saw a chance to take some pictures and play the ‘documentary photographer.’ When I was there I used my camera to search the demonstration and people, for those scenes which made an emotional statement for the purpose of the March for Life,” Conley said. There were quite a few representations of various perspectives throughout the shots. From ultra-personal to crowd shots, Conley varied his photos and didn’t show a prejudice to one angle over another. Using varied angles and techniques, Conley really captured the appropriate atmosphere that surrounded the event. “From the photo of a young child with a sign, to the wider angle shots showing the massive number of people there, they all have something in their content that reference the ‘Why?’ of the March,” Conley said. At first, Conley didn’t expect for the photos he took to be displayed in the hallway of Zurn Hall; however, he brought them to photo professor Mr. Cardot. Cardot saw the potential in the shots and encouraged Conley to use
them for a hallway exhibit. “So I sorted through them, sifting regular old snapshots away from those that reached more to the core of the event,” Conley said. “I am not looking to argue anything with the exhibit, merely displaying the side of the issue I stand on, and to possibly raise awareness of the march itself.”
Zach Dorsch photo James Conley’s photography from the “March for Life” is displayed in Zurn Hall.
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OPINION
April 24, 2013
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 always welcomed and can be emailed to opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.
Writer very embarrassed by America By Zach Yost Staff writer
Even if you lived under a rock this past week it would have been rather difficult to have missed the non-stop coverage of the Boston bombing and its ensuing developments. But unfortunately the only thing that is clear, despite the voluminous amount of coverage of the issue, is that American society is deeply flawed. There is no doubt that the bombing itself was horrendous and evil, but the government, media and public responses to it were by far one of the most embarrassing and ridiculous spectacles I have ever witnessed. Within hours of the bombing misinformation abounded everywhere. Government officials were saying different and conflicting things that news media went ahead and reported. Social media was ablaze with accusations of one kind or another. Innocent people’s lives became a
nightmare when social media spread rumors and falsehoods about them, most notably the case of Salah Barhoun, a 17-year-old who was implicated by the New York Post as a suspect. But all of the media misinformation surrounding the bombing was nothing compared to what happened when the chase began for the two Chechen suspects. Unlike what seems to be the vast majority of the public, I am not in fact in favor of torturing Dzhokhar Tsarnaev and then throwing him into the fires of hell for all eternity. If media and government officials were able to be so horribly wrong in the past week is it impossible that maybe this could be the wrong person and that this man should at least have a trial before judgment is passed upon him? That being said, let us assume that the Tsarnaev brothers are in fact the terrorists. If they were the terrorists there is no doubt that they won. If I was a terrorist I could scarcely hope
for a better reaction from the American government, media and people. Two men were able to use primitive bombs and kill three people and wound over a hundred others. If these men wanted to draw attention to the cause of Chechen independence they certainly succeeded. As a result of their actions they were able to draw more attention to Chechnya in one week than two wars against Russia where thousands of people were killed. Next, two men managed to bring the entire city of Boston with hundreds of thousands of people to a complete stop. An American city on lockdown with armored vehicles rolling down the streets all because of two men, it’s simply unthinkable. How many millions of dollars did this cost? Not only was there a huge cost in terms of having hundreds of police officers and FBI agents driving gas guzzling trucks all over the city but there is the huge loss in economic activity that comes from shutting an entire city down.
Boston bomb attack brings mixed reactions By Alejandra Zeron Staff writer
Following the Boston massacre that took place Monday, April 15, the public’s attention has centered on the suspect in custody. The Boston Marathon bombing suspect was captured Friday night in a boat in a suburban backyard following a bloody encounter that left a cop dead and brought a historic, day-long manhunt that shut down the entire city. The arrest of Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, 19, and the death of his brother Tamerlan Tsarnaev, 26, during a 200 bullet police gunfight ended five days of terror brought about by the two bombs at the marathon’s finish line, which killed three people, wounded 176 and left the city of Boston plagued with fear. The Boston Police Department posted on its Twitter account, “CAPTURED!!! The hunt is over. The
search is done. The terror is over. And justice has won.” That same day, Boston residents and cops flooded the streets of Watertown, Mass., to cheer and celebrate. In the days following the Boston Marathon bombing, the Tsarnaev brothers were perhaps the most hated and dangerous men in America. This hatred was communicated through the different social media platforms, where the anti-Muslim, racist comments prevailed. However, it seems that once Dzhokhar Tsarnaev’s Twitter feed and picture were released, many members of the community began to feel sympathy for him. After all, he looked like an average, light-skinned teenager who did not precisely fit the terrorist description we envisioned. Perhaps it is the notion that the suspected attackers are followers of the Islamic faith and, hence, were motivated by a radical ideology that made it easier for us to understand their motives and
accordingly pin blame and hatred. However, further compassion has been channeled toward the boy when his friends and acquaintances described him as a nice and personable kid, with few believing he could be involved in such an atrocious act. It is certainly in our inherent human nature to feel mercy for the young boy, particularly after witnessing the way he was described by those who knew him. However, this should not clutter our judgment. Justice should be claimed in the name of the three victims involved in the bombing. It has been speculated that the death penalty might be in play even though Massachusetts is one of more than a dozen states without capital punishment. The U.S. Justice Department said that if convicted, Tsarnaev could face the federal death penalty. To date, he has been charged with using a weapon of mass destruction and malicious destruction of property.
If I was a terrorist I would be more encouraged than ever before to attack America, seeing how reactionary Americans are and how eager people like Sen. Lindsey Graham are to throw due process out the window. There was however, a smidge of dark humor this week. When it was announced that the suspects were from Chechnya, swarms of ignorant Americans took to the Internet to pour hate, vitriol and calls for death on the Czech Republic. It was so bad that the Czech embassy had to clarify that the Czech
Republic is in fact not the same as the Chechen Republic which is part of the Russian Federation. This is quite fortunate for the Czechs seeing how so many Americans are calling for the American military to rain death down upon the region of origin of the suspect. It was clear that this past week was a week in which America demonstrated a serious lack of judgment. No, America is not the greatest nation on earth, but it certainly is in the running for being named the most ignorant and stupid.
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April 24, 2013
OPINION
Page 10
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 always welcomed and can be emailed to opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.
EMTA desperately needed for own safety By Stacy Skiavo News editor Less than an hour before the explosion, the mother of Mercyhurst student Kelsey Elliot crossed the finish line at the Boston Marathon on April 15. Fortunately, both walked away unharmed.
It was announced Tuesday that the EMTA bus system will be suspended this weekend due to improper behavior by students. I do agree that their complaints are valid. Some of these complaints include “Throwing alcohol at the driver,” “Vomiting on the bus” and
“Standing in front of and jumping on the front of the EMTA.” However, we have this convenience to avoid students taking chances and drinking and driving. The lack of public transportation will not prevent students from going downtown to have fun and enjoy the bars of State Street. As a result, the cases of drunk students driving will greatly increase. This then puts many sober and drunk at risk on the weekends of car accidents and possibly death.
Why should we let the least common denominator ruin this privilege for others and possibly put many at risk of accidents? Just because a few students have chosen to exploit the privilege of the bus, does not mean that everyone should suffer. Instead those that cause the issues should be reprimanded rather than punishing everyone. The biggest factor here is safety, but I also hate to see privileges taken
away just because of the acts of a few people. It was stated that the shuttle should commence the following weekend, but who is to say that EMTA won’t try to suspend weekends in the future? Or worse, indefinitely? I love that I can enjoy myself downtown every weekend and then get home safely at the end of the evening. I want future Lakers to enjoy the same convenience.
‘Spring Breakers’: a feeling, not an event By Juan Mendez Staff writer
With the registration process beginning this week, students are having a hard time registering for their classes. Lines at the registrar’s office are forming and students are getting locked out of classes they need to take.
When Harmony Korine’s “Spring Breakers” came to American theaters last month, it was greeted with mixed criticism, some of which deemed the movie to be “a festival of debauchery” or “lacking in terms of plot,” using nudity and depictions of heavy alcohol and drug consumption to shock the audience. As an avid fan of the film reading this criticism, here is a small fact versus fiction about “Spring Breakers.” The movie is neither “plotless” nor “the worst film you’ve ever seen.” Korine has clearly stated that the
movie is about a feeling, not an event. The imagery only helps you further develop this sentiment as opposed to drive you towards some point. Spring Breakers is all substance, not occurrence. Other criticism towards the film pressed the fact that Korine cast Selena Gomez and Vanessa Hudgens, who are known primarily for their stints in Disney Channel projects, in roles that portray them as “filthy” characters, unashamed of their actions as long as there’s a risk involved. “Spring Breakers” is not about all the drugs and sex and crime and parties, although I guarantee you there’s more than enough of those to last you a year, but the four girls and the trans-
formation they go through. “Spring Breakers” clearly makes a point to reference the fact that it’s a “pop poem” to an extent, a hyper-depiction of modern American society and the values and morals they deem appropriate, bluntly set against the visuals and facts of a life of debauchery that the culture itself both valiantly glorifies yet sternly degrades. It is just like every dumb spring break film you’ve watched, only 10,000 times louder and more impacting. Yes, the film is graphic. Yes, “Spring Breakers” is raunchy and gruesome and even uncomfortable to a point. But all you’re looking at is a mirror being held to our society. It’s exactly what people think spring
break is about. Yes, it’s weird, but think twice before you call “Spring Breakers” a parody. Harmony Korine doesn’t play the role of the parodist here, but rather that of the critic. I would definitely recommend the movie to anyone that had seen the trailer or is somewhat into art-films. Caution to the wind, however, you should not go into the movie theater expecting a party movie, because you’re going to get way more than you had wagered for. It’s a story, a reality and a critique of what it means to be a teenager or a college student. Because of this, I firmly believe that “Spring Breakers” will become one of the biggest cult classics of our time.
Student unsatisfied with film experience By Mathew Anderson A&E editor
There are many artistic outlets on campus that make me quite proud, and I feel would do our campus justice for the general public to take part in. One event that I recently attended that did not meet this standard of excellence is the recent showing of the James Bond classic, “Dr. No.”
Online
In response to the behavior of students that ride the bus downtown on weekends during the past weeks, the Erie Metro Transit Authority has canceled the bus service for the upcoming weekend. The bus will resume conditionally on May 2, although it will be subject to reconsideration if the behavior does not change.
Upon entering Taylor Little Theatre, I was struck by a generally uncomfortable atmosphere. That sense was only heightened by an awkward exchange at the ticket window— the two men weren’t necessarily ‘rude,’ however, they weren’t the most pleasant to work with. Arriving five minutes before the film was due to start, I was lucky enough to experience an uncomfortable collection of music that didn’t even have any connection to the film being shown. A couple behind me seemed to
share my opinion, voicing their viewpoint on the music with the phrase “What is this?” Their comments were accompanied by one or two explicative phrases, although, you get the point. The movie itself was great as far as visual quality is concerned. Taylor Little Theatre, though small, isn’t the most intimate performing space on campus. distorting the sound during explosions or the car chases. There were other points during the showing that myself and the others in the audience had to
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physically lean toward the screen to try and discern what was being said on screen. I will have to say that the movie choice is excellent; however, the experience was one that left me desiring more. There isn’t much that Mercyhurst Institute for Arts and Culture can do at this point until that space is renovated. In the future, I hope that budget money is focused more toward improving what we have and less toward reflecting pools for a statue.
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SPORTS
April 24, 2013
Page 11 September 3, 2008
Reid earns ECAC Player of the Week By Samantha Bante Staff writer
With a record of 12-0, the Mercyhurst men’s lacrosse team is on a mission to have yet another unforgettable season. The Lakers are also currently in the NCAA Division II South Regional Rankings. The Lakers are 12-0 after winning a tough match against Lake Erie College. Rising to the challenge is senior Zac Reid, who received Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) award on Monday, April 15. “It’s always nice winning an individual award, but a lot of my offensive production this year has happened because I’m surrounded by a number of talented teammates. “We have a lot of offensive threats this year both at the attack and midfield, and against Post, I think I just benefited from some good one-on-one matchups on the field,” Zac Reid said. Reid scored a career-high four goals in the Lakers’ 14-13 win at then-fifthranked LIU-Post April 13. He was able to score the first goal of the day 46 seconds into the match. “Zac comes from an overall great outlook of the game and view of lacrosse, not to mention the fact that he has great academics as well. He is
Brian Vail photo
Senior Zac Reid received the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Award on Monday, April 15.
more of a mature player. He has the big picture as far as what needs to go in and what he needs to do throughout the game, and has had extreme growth this year,” Coach Chris Ryan said. Reid has received a total of 15 goals, along with nine assists this year. “The team is playing very well as a unit this season. We’re focused and confident in one another, and I think our ability to beat teams in the fourth quarter shows just how tight we are as a whole,” Reid said. The team will lose nine key players after this season. These players have also seen a record of 54 wins, with a total of only four loses. “I’m going to miss my teammates and getting the chance to compete with and against them on a daily basis the most. I’ve been pretty fortunate to spend four years at Mercyhurst with a great group of teammates and friends,” Reid said. “What is unique about our team is that it isn’t just “one” star player, everyone chips in, and they are surrounded by good players, they all contribute the success that we have had,” Ryan said. The Lakers’ next game before the ECAC semifinals will be at Seton Hill University on Saturday, April 27, at 1 p.m.
Women’s tennis loses in quarterfinals By Joe Chiodo Sports editor
The Mercyhurst University women’s tennis team was knocked out of the Pennsylvania State Athletics Conference Tournament with their 5-1 loss to the Indiana (Pa.) Crimson Hawks on Wednesday, April 17. The quarterfinals defeat brings the Lakers’ record down to a still very impressive 14-4. During the tournament, Laker’s doubles duo sophomore Sarah Baich and junior Caroline Bristol notched
the only win for Mercyhurst University in doubles play. “Sarah and I help each other out and work well together. We get along really well on the court and understand what is needed to succeed,” said Bristol. “Our playing styles complement each other. We stay focused and know what shots to make at the right time. This has allowed us to be really successful this year.” The loss last week was rough on the Lakers, but spirits are still high and hopes for next season are stronger
than ever. “It was a tough loss and I am very disappointed, yet proud. We all went out there and gave it 100 percent, but the other team gave 110 percent,” said Baich. “I can’t say we couldn’t beat them, because we definitely could and we will be looking forward to doing so next year.” Bristol knows that, despite the defeat to the Crimson Hawks, the Lakers came out and tried their hardest. Only time will tell if the Lakers grab a qualifying spot in the upcoming
NCAA Division II Tournament. “As a team, we lost against the Crimson Hawks in the quarterfinals. Individually, everyone played really hard and we were happy on how far we went this year, which will hopefully continue on in the NCAA Division II Tournament,” Bristol said. Additionally, the Lakers remain ranked a spectacular fourth place in the Atlantic Region poll. “It feels amazing to be ranked fourth. I couldn’t be more proud of my team and their dedication, not to
mention our coach, who has helped us get to where we are,” said Baich. “Without all of us working together and contributing our pieces, we wouldn’t be able to get here. I am truly blessed to be on such an amazing team and couldn’t be more proud of our ranking.” “Being ranked fourth in the Atlantic Region makes me feel like our hard work has paid off,” said Bristol. “It is nice to see the improvement from our ranking last year.”
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SPORTS
Page 12
April 24, 2013
Ouegnin in run for College Dunk of the Year By Paul Bilbo
Contributing writer The slam-dunk is arguably the most electrifying type of basketball shot in the history of the game. It is a high percentage shot known for its crowd-pleasing capabilities. Dunking has progressed in the college ranks from being banned in the NCAA in 1967, to now being one of the more prominent parts of college basketball. In recent years, there has been an annual award for the Hoops Manifesto’s NCAA College Dunk of the Year. Mercyhurst’s own Jonathan Ouegnin was nominated for it. On Feb. 20, Jonathan Ouegnin threw down a one-handed monster dunk over three Gannon defenders, which resulted in a three-point play. The crowd went crazy and not only did it help lead the Lakers to a 44-36 victory over the nationally ranked Gannon Golden Knights, but it also landed Ouegnin a spot on the ESPN Top 10 Plays for Feb. 21-22. “It was pretty cool, I was happy,” said Ouegnin. “Especially because it is the only Division II selected dunk.”
After completing the dunk, Ouegnin actually thought that he had been called for an offensive foul and ran back ready to play defense. Moments later you could see a smile light up across his face to find out that the referee actually called a shooting foul. “Hey, I knew he was going to dunk when I saw him turn the corner off the pick and roll,” sophomore teammateTerrence Ingram said. “When you practice with someone everyday, you start to understand their tendencies. I was just shocked the way he dunked on them,” said Ingram. “You can ask anyone, I am the first to go crazy but this dunk surprised me so much that I was asking myself, ‘did that really just happen?’ It was really a surreal moment, and even better that it was against our crosstown rivals.” Ouegnin’s fantastic dunk was able to put Mercyhurst University on a national level, even for just a day. It was a crowd-pleaser that all Mercyhurst basketball fans will remember for a very long time. To vote for Ouegnin in the NCAA College Dunk of the Year until Sunday, April 28 by visiting the Hoops Manifesto website.
Matt Durisko photo
Junior Jonathan Ouegnin towers over a Gannon defender during his dunk on Wednesday, February 20.
Senior Luis Leao of the Mercyhurst men’s basketball team was named to the 22nd Annual Division II Bulletin All-American Third Team on Thursday, April 11. Leao has already been chosen to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) All-American Team.
Women’s lacrosse wins on Senior Day By Lindsey Burke Staff writer
The Mercyhurst women’s lacrosse team has recorded 12 wins on the season and only three losses. The team was on an eight game winning streak before falling to Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) rival West Chester, 5-19. The Lakers celebrated senior day with a win over Millersville University, winning 11-7. Honored on the afternoon were seniors Brittany Tucker, Kayla Minner and Alisha Catalino. The win clinched a playoff berth in the PSAC Tournament. The team has been ranked #15 in the latest polls. Junior captain Sarah Stokes noted the senior members of this year’s squad for much of the team’s success. “Our seniors have brought a high degree of intensity to the game that noticeably spreads,” said Stokes. “In difficult situations, both on and off the field, everyone looks up to the seniors for their guidance, persistence and leadership.”
Brian Vail photo
Junior Anna LeGrett swims through a barrage of defenders as she heads towards the opposition’s net.
Stokes believes the sky is the limit in the PSAC tournament and playing a complete 60-minute game, both offensively and defensively, will ensure success. “From here on out, the next game is the most important game of the season,” said Stokes. “The PSAC tournament is a chance to get redemption and re-do the mistakes we made during the regular season.” Of the team’s three losses, only two were within the PSAC: West Chester and IUP. “One of our biggest strengths this year has been the ability to overcome adversity and work together as a team to win,” said Stokes. “We have capitalized on our ability versus our opponents.” With having three seniors, two of them captains, leadership has played an integral role in the success of the 2013 team. The Lakers next game is against cross-town rival Gannon. With a win, the Lakers would earn home field advantage for the first round of the PSAC tournament.