Merciad Vol.82, No.16/2.4.

09/Free

Mercyhurst Dance
Department showcases
‘Raw’ talent
Student-produced and -choreographed
Raw Edges enters 11th year
Read more on Page 8

Mark Santillano photos

Page 2 NEWS February 4, 2009

Seniors ready to celebrate the last ‘100 Days’

By Ashley Pastor
Staff writer
The 100 Days Celebration for the senior class of
2009 will take place at the Corner Stone Bar and Grill,
Friday, Feb. 13, from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m.
The party takes place annually to fundraise for the
senior gift.
Vicky Fleisner, a student coordinator of the 100
Days Celebration said, “Having this event allows all
seniors to have fun with fellow members of our class
but it also gives our committee a great opportunity to
promote the Senior Gift and get students to donate,
which is our main goal.”
According to Hilary Hancock, the senior gift chair,
there will be no cover at the door of the Corner
Stone.
Instead, the specials and celebration will take place
downstairs.
There are three ways to be admitted to the party:
Donations between $200-299 receives free admission,
donations of $300 (housing deposit) or more receive
free admission and a free 100 Days T-shirt.
Students can also pay $9 at the entrance to the
downstairs to be admitted to the party.
Fleisner said students are able to donate at the
party or they can contact their school chair represen-
tatives and fill out the forms.
Donation cards can be found in the library lobby,
and may be filled out and put in the box.
The donations, or the $9 admission fee, include
food and the drink specials lasting the whole six
hours.
Prizes will be given away throughout the night.
“The reason for $9 is 2009 and last year it was $8
for 2008,” Hancock said.
The party specials will be different from the stan-
dard dollar domestics and dollar shots that usually
take place on Friday nights only from 10 p.m. until
midnight.
Fleisner said the 100 Days Celebration T-shirts will
be sold for $10.
“We will be selling them at the Stone on the night
of the party and on all Wednesday nights from here
on out leading up to the party,” Fleisner said.
“The T-shirts are in and look awesome,” Hancock
said.
So, to the seniors of 2009, embrace these last 100
days of Mercyhurst life with food, drinks and fun at
the Corner Stone Bar and Grill.
Let’s dance until the lights come on and enjoy the
company of the people we have spent the last four
years of our life with.

Senior Gift Committee

Members and Representatives
Student Government
Adviser: Cathy Anderson launches new Web site
Steering Committee
will hopefully become one of the
Chair: Hilary Hancock By Alaina Rydzewski ultimate sources of information
Staff writer
Amber Carruba, Zach Pekor, Vicky Fleisner, Casey for ’Hurst students, faculty and
administrators.”
Greene, Dan Piechocki, Jenna Golden, Kristin Tedesco Mercyhurst College Student The improved Web site has a
Government (MSG) recently user-friendly interface and creative
School Chairs and Fund Raisers released their new, redesigned Web features like a calendar of events, a
site in hopes of better inform- slideshow of MSG events, a Senate
Behavioral Sciences Business and ing ’Hurst students of upcoming directory, an anonymous “Lettuce
and Education: Communication: events on campus and all of the Hear Your Beef ” comment box
Natural Science: things their student government is and a new theme according to
Lauren Weisser Becky Hohman doing for them. Jovanovic.
Allyson LaCovey
Katie Wootton Haylie Starin Even though the Web site has Louie Laker is the main spec-
Julissa Armstrong been in existence since January tacle, with pictures of him around
John McCellan Heather Schwager 2006, there was room for improve- the site to ease text-filled pages.
Social Science: ment. The Web site features infor-
Jackie McLean “The previous Web site you mation on the Laker Spirit Club
Liz Gutoskey Arts and could visit once and never go and the Student Activities Coun-
Kaitlyn Hoover
Stephanie Wilkens Humanities: back again,” MSG public relations cil, both of which operate under
representative, senior Mixa Jova- MSG.
Ryan McCartney Elise Zigrossi novic said. “I wanted to change Any comments or questions
that. With the technical support about the new Web site can be
Seniors interested in donating or getting involved should contact
of the Newline Creations, the directed to Mixa Jovanovic at
any of the students above.
freshly redesigned MSG Web site msgpr@mercyhurst.edu.
February 4, 2009 NEWS Page 3

Students experience Ireland through education

By JoEllen Marsh
Managing editor
Once Mercyhurst College students
arrive for classes in Dungarvan, Ireland in
spring 2010, they will likely be ready to get
out and explore the town.
Several of Mercyhurst’s current stu-
dents who come from Dungarvan have
ideas to help future study abroad students
experience the city.
“It is a pretty quiet town. There is a
tennis club, a park, St. John’s castle, a
cinema and a variety of restaurants, includ-
ing a McDonald’s if they got homesick,”
senior Sara Norris said. “If the students
were interested in golfing, there are some
great golf courses in the area. They could
go to Clonea beach, which is beautiful and
go surfing.”
In addition to many pubs and restau-
rants, the Creation nightclub is a popular
weekend hotspot, Norris said.
Outside of Dungarvan, students can find
new places to shop and explore by taking a
bus to Cork or Waterford, or traveling 20
minutes to the beach at Ardmore.
Outdoorsy students will not be disap-
pointed with opportunities to hike and
camp in the Comeragh Mountains.
“There are lovely forests around like
Colligan forest which has the Colligan
river going through it,” Norris said.
Mercyhurst’s choir made the first offi-
cial visit from Erie to Dungarvan, since
they became sister cities.
The mayor of Dungarvan surprised
them by inviting them to a town meet-
ing where they sang the Celtic blessing
and town officials presented them with a
plaque.
Choir Director Rebecca Ryan said,
“The people hugged us, loved us, fed us, Contributed photo
made us feel very special. We had no idea Dungarvan, the proposed site for the ’Hurst-Ireland campus, is the sister city
they were planning any of that for us.” of Erie.
Mercyhurst grad student Jim Rudisil,
who went on the trip, said, “I think it’s “I didn’t meet anyone who wasn’t will be able to go, but the trip is targeted
the culture I get so enthralled with. Italy is friendly and welcoming and willing to towards sophomores and juniors.
great, Poland is an experience, but Ireland go so far out of their way if you need Sophomore Caitlin Toner plans on
is a place I would live.” anything,”Hosey said. “They’re lovely signing up as soon as possible.
Ryan said, “I think they’ll find a slower people.” “They’re going to have Irish professors
pace of life and joys in the simpler things. According to Hosey, applications to that are going to teach Gaelic. It’s awe-
They’re sure to like the Guinness.” study abroad in Ireland will probably be some. I’ve wanted to go to Ireland for a
Director of International Education available this spring. These applications long time,” Toner said.
Dr. Heidi Hosey went to Ireland last will be handled like current Faculty-Led All students who go to Ireland will take
month and was met with a great reception Study Abroad Trips (FSAT). Because it a course focusing on Irish culture, geogra-
from the town’s people. will fall in the FSAT category, freshmen phy, history and language, Hosey said.

Pre-law meeting leads students in ways of law

By Kelly Luoma
Staff writer
Mercyhurst College pre-law students learned about the
Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and applying to law
schools at a Pre-law Society meeting on Tuesday.
It was the first Pre-law Society meeting in seven or eight
years at Mercyhurst, according to Director of Career Ser-
vices Bob Hvezda.
The goal is to improve the students’ LSAT scores, Vice
President of Academic Affairs Meredith Schultz said.
A student’s LSAT score and grade point average are
the two most important factors for determining what law
school he or she can get accepted to, Hvezda said.
Hvezda recommended students taking the LSAT to
take preparation classes or practice tests before taking the
actual test. Taking practice exams will give students “a
good idea where they stand,” Hvezda said.
Tyler Stauffer photo Schultz took many practice tests before she took the
Mercyhurst College students interested in law LSAT. “Every single time I took an exam, my score would
school got an education, learning about the LSATs go up,” Schultz said.
and applications. Schultz and Hvezda passed out surveys for the stu-
dents to take to determine what they would like to gain
from the meetings and what activities they would be
interested in.
The students chose if they would be interested in visit-
ing law schools and in what cities they would want to visit
the schools. They also selected parts of the test taking
and application process they would like to have assistance
with.
Schultz said the group plans to spend one of the next
meetings discussing the LSAT and preparing for it. She
invited students who had already taken the test to come
back and share their experiences with students who had
not yet taken it.
Schultz encouraged the students to discuss with her
which law school they should attend.
Plans for a pre-law minor were mentioned at the meet-
ing. According to Schultz, the school is in the process of
creating a pre-law minor that will be open to all Mercy-
hurst students.
Senior Alex Beck thought the Pre-law Society meet-
ings would be helpful, especially for students preparing
for the LSAT.
Nineteen students attended the meeting.
Page 4 NEWS February 4, 2009

Hurst Homes
AIRING:
Wednesday, Feb. 3, at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Thursday, Feb. 4, at 12:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Friday, Feb. 5, at 4:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m.
Tune into channel 19 to watch Mercyhurst
College’s version of MTV Cribs
Panel broadens horizons
By Alaina Rydzewski
Staff writer
Students, faculty, community members and
the media met at Mercyhurst College Tuesday
night to witness the Panelist Discussion held in
the Mercy Heritage Room and sponsored by the
Walker School of Business and Office of Academic
Affairs.
The event had an excellent turn out, with extra
chairs brought out for late, comers because every

Mercyhurst shows
seat was filled. Scoot Williams photo
The audience was quiet and attentive, with many James Pitonyak and Darrel Vandeveld discuss
spectators, old and young, scribbling notes on their former prisoners at Guantanamo Bay.

its face in social hands or in notebooks.

Although a formal affair, there were many infor- usage of diplomacy during the Bush administration

networking
By Kelly Luoma
Staff writer
Facebook allows students to
stay in touch with friends from
home and new friends from col-
lege. Now, students are able to
keep in contact with Mercyhurst
College students, alumni and
faculty through a Mercyhurst
Facebook page.
The site opened last week.
Mercyhurst Art Director
Steve Perkins, Media Relations
Manager Debbie Morton and
alumnus Jason Drohn devel-
oped the page.
Mercyhurst College Presi-
dent Dr. Thomas J. Gamble
explained the reasoning for the
creation of the Facebook page.
“There’s no escaping the fact
that students congregate online,
and colleges looking to capture
their interest can’t afford not to
features like a wall and discus-
sion board, the page includes
a virtual tour of the Erie and
North East campuses, videos,
photos and a slideshow of the
school. Information about
Gamble and links to the Mer-
cyhurst Web site are also on
the Facebook page.
Morton points out that
many people will see the site
on Facebook.
“With an estimated 150 mil-
lion active users around the
world, nowhere can you reach
so many in such a short time,”
Morten said.
“Besides being a recruit-
ing and marketing tool that
gets the college’s message out
there in an enormously popu-
lar public forum, Facebook
will enable us to keep con-
nected with our various con-
stituencies, from prospective
students to alumni. Fans not
mal moments when one of the panelists would
make a joke to lighten the mood in the room.
The discussion, entitled “The Intersection of
Traditional Notions of Justice and International
Prosecutions in the Age of Terrorism,” was based
mainly on the prisoners at Guantanamo Bay and
what will be done with them now that President
Obama has called for the closing of the center,
but also discussed values such as justice in our
society today.
The panelists discussing Guantanamo Bay were
Darrel Vandeveld, J.D. (Juris Doctorate), senior
deputy attorney general for Pennsylvania, who
recently resigned from the project because of ethical
reasons and asked to be reassigned to Afghanistan
or Iraq but was sent home; James Pitonyak, J.D.,
First Assistant in Office of Public Defender for Erie
County and Kristan Wheaton, J.D., assistant profes-
sor of Intelligence Studies at Mercyhurst College.
Meredith Schultz, the moderator in the discussion,
opened with a question directed at Vandeveld in
which she compared the trials at Guantanamo Bay
to the Nuremberg Trials in Nazi Germany and the
Tokyo tribunals.
The discussion continued on, dealing with topics
such as the perception that Americans are fighting
around the world, how the American sense of justice
was present and not present at Guantanamo Bay, the
and now during Obama’s administration and what
is to be done with the prisoners currently residing
there.
“We are all in this together. It’s not President
Obama’s problem. It’s not former President Bush’s
problem. It’s everyone’s problem—where should
these people go?” Vandeveld asked.
Though 60 of the prisoners have been released
and declared no threat, there is nowhere for them
to go—no country will take them in and America
has the “not-in-my-backyard” syndrome; basically
rejecting the former prisoners as well.
The discussion closed with the issue of terrorism,
with Vandeveld saying: “Terrorism and struggles
against terrorism is not an American problem, it’s a
world problem…we need to reclaim the values that
our country was founded on.”
The floor was then opened for questions from
the audience of which there was many.
’Hurst sophomore Liz Case said she came in not
knowing much about the Guantanamo Bay incident,
but leaving with a better insight as to what the U.S.’s
options “really are for the prisoners kept there.”
Regarding America and the perceptions countries
around the world hold about America ’Hurst junior
Matt Visco said “it was inspiring…we need to be
introspective and look at where we were and where
we need to go.”

’Hurst
get involved in social networks only can obtain information Mercyhurst College’s Army classes and a simulation system.
like Facebook,” he said about what’s happening on ROTC held its first training At the end of the training,
“Further, with our new campus, but they can interact event for the 2009. there was a battalion change of

ROTC
undergraduate communica- with the college and with each On Saturday, Jan. 31, the Pride command ceremony.
tion program focusing, in other,” Morton said. of Pennsylvania Battalion con- The new battalion commander
part, on new media, having a Currently, the page has ducted training at Erie’s U.S. for the Pride of Pennsylvania

presence on Facebook seems
like a natural complement,”
Morton said.
Besides the usual Facebook
update
about 700 fans. Army Reserve Center. Battalion is senior Michael Pic-
To increase this number, The objective was to familiar- cini and the new command ser-
go to lakerfacebook.com and ize cadets with various U.S. Army geant major is Gannon Universi-
request to become a fan. weapons using small hands on ty’s Brian Yoder.
February 4, 2009
Take a break from the usual on spring break
By Andrea Conlon
Contributing writer
When looking for places to
go for spring break the decision
can be tricky.
Do you choose a nice ski
resort where you can hit the
slopes daily or do you choose
a beach where you can ride the
waves or lay in the sun?
An easy way to save money
would be to gather a couple of
people and split a cheap hotel
room.
If you’re going to a location
you can drive to, only take one
vehicle and split the gas money;
this decreases the cost per
person.
If your destination requires
Lunch $ 5
Dinner $ 5.50
M Southwest Burger
T Breakfast Sandwich
W Sizzle Salad
TH Taco Salad
F Goulash
S Laker Burger
S Potato Bowl
M Chicken Parm w/ Pasta
T Philly Wrap
W Gen Tso’s Chix or Tofu
TH Pierogies
F Buffalo Popcorn Chicken
S Chicken Bacon Swiss
a plane ticket, look at multiple
online sites in order to find the
lowest fare.
Most travel Web sites have
combinations where you can
purchase plane tickets, a hotel
and car rentals for a discounted
rate.
This is a good way to decrease
spending and to make sure
you’re using every cent to your
full advantage.
After reviewing seven or eight
different travel sites, Expedia
seems to offer the cheaper
plane tickets, depending on the
destination and the day of the
week you are departing.
Sites say that, if you travel
from Tuesday to the following
Tuesday you are more likely to
get a better deal, because you
Lunch $ 5
Dinner $ 5.50
6” Sub $4 Combo $5
12” Sub $5.75 Combo $6.75
Wrap Combo- Veggie $5
Other Wraps $4
Make any sub a wrap for
no extra charge!
FEATURES Page 5
are not flying on the weekend
– when rates tend to increase.
Decided to make a last
minute spring break decision
and still do not have a hotel or
plane ticket?
Lastminutetravel.com is a
great site to use.
The site finds the last hotel
rooms or plane tickets before
they are filled up and sells them
to you at a lower rate.
Junior Sarah Blackwell said
she is traveling to Washington Contributed photo
D.C. and Hilton Head, S.C. to New Orleans, above, is a common spring break destination.
visit her family.
She said she is looking forward not planning on traveling, is to around the area.
to spending some quality time experience something new. Invite some people over and
with loved ones and also making Check out a museum you’ve have some great themed parties.
some great memories. never had time to go to before, Some ideas include beach
Another great way to have or find out if there are any new parties, a tropical Luau, Mardi
fun over break, even if you are restaurants or coffee shops Gras, or a casino night.
Broccoli & Cheddar Bites
11:30 a.m. -8 p.m.
Lunch $ 5
Dinner $ 5.50
Page 6
‘Mamma Mia Mayhem’ at Egan Cafeteria
By Alexandra Miniri
Staff writer
The Student Activities Council hosted
the annual Murder Mystery Dinner
Saturday, Jan. 31.
Junior Cerissa Lynch and senior
Heather Schwager, who organized the
event, chose an Italian theme, “Mamma
Mia Mayhem: Blood Relatives,” which is
what was offered by the company B&G
Murder Mystery.
Tickets costing $10 got students a night
of entertainment, a dinner of chicken or
eggplant parmesan and dessert.
Students in semi-formal attire gathered
in Egan cafeteria after dinner hours,
decorated for the occasion.
The Stromboli Family gathered at
a memorial service to bid farewell to
Mamma Filomena who three weeks ago
at the ripe old age of 85 finally went to
that big pizza parlor in the sky.
On hand for this solemn occasion were
’Hurst’s Blue and Green cheer for the Black and Gold
By Anneliese Browning
Contributing writer
The Super Bowl has come and gone
yet again the steel curtain holds strong.
The Black and Gold now have the
most Super Bowl rings than any other
football team; six big ones 1975, 1976,
1979, 1980, 2006 and now 2009.
All are American traits, all are
Pittsburgh traits and all are true diehard
football player traits.
Pittsburgh is a city rich in tradition, one
supporting their sports teams through
thick and thin.
Pittsburgh Steeler fans are not
just found in Pittsburgh; they are
everywhere.
A world renowned team with more
fans than any other team in the NFL.
Junior Jordan Armstrong from
Muncie, Ind. said, “I do believe they
have the biggest fan base because they
have the most loyal fans. They have been
around since the beginning of the NFL
and the fact that they win most of the
FEATURES February 4, 2009
her kids and their respective spouses or
significant others.
Naturally, at such a poignant occasion,
emotions were high as everyone realized
they had to go without Mamma.
But Mamma Stromboli’s will seems
a little odd and the siblings start to
question some mysterious actions. After
two deaths, the students at the event were
given the chance to solve the mystery.
There was a conspiracy by a priest and
one of the Stromboli children to change
the will of Mamma Stromboli, which
resulted in another death and more
confusion among the siblings.
Maria Rambuski, Hillary Tietsworth
and Stephen Shutta were the intuitive
three winners who solved the mystery Contributed photo
and walked away with great gift baskets. “Mamma Mia Mayhem: Blood Relatives” was this year’s Murder Mys-
Five other door prizes were given out. tery Dinner theme.
Junior Brian Johns who attended the
event said, “The Murder Mystery Dinner is a great change of pace from a regular Sophomore Meghan Warner said, “The
is a fun event to go to and being able to dinner or SAC event. I had a great night centerpieces were chocolate chip cookies
interact with the actors and have a chance out with my friends, and I can’t wait until decorated like pizzas...which were very
to ‘solve’ a mystery is very stimulating. It next year.” creative and went well with the theme.”
time and are always in the hunt to win the
Super Bowl helps keep even the most fair
weather fans loyal.”
Freshman Emily Alden claims to be a
neutral fan, but said, “I’ve always heard
that you can find a Pittsburgh Steelers
fan anywhere.”
Pittsburgh Steeler fans support their
team no matter how the score turns out.
Freshman Jessica Clemente, a Reading,
Pa., native living in Philadelphia Eagles
territory said, “With the infamous
Terrible Towel, the Hines Ward’s smile
and Polamolu’s hair, the Steelers are a
very solid team that gets the job done.”
Jeremiah Wise, a junior from Chicago,
likes the Steelers because of “their long
tradition of winning Super Bowls.”
Super Bowl Sunday affected every place
at Mercyhurst, even campus ministry. Contributed photo
The usual 8:30 p.m. Mass was moved Freshmen at Egan Hall gathered to watch and support the Steelers on SuperBowl
to 4:30 p.m., and the 11 a.m. Mass was Sunday.
filled with Steelers’ jerseys.
Freshman Jessica Clemente and Junior In the congregation, students could before their team started playing.
Chelsea Crawford served as Eucharistic be seen supporting Steelers’ Polamolu, From the classroom to the dining hall
Ministers while wearing jerseys for Ben Parker, Holmes, Harrison and many and into church, Mercyhurst’s Blue and
Roethlisberger and Hines Ward. others by wearing their jerseys and praying Green cheered for the Black and Gold.
February 4, 2009 FEATURES Page 7

Concert choir sings way to Spain in summer

By Alaina Rydzewski
Staff writer
This year’s 7th annual tour choir trip
led by Rebecca Ryan, of the Mercyhurst
College D’Angelo School of Music, will
be to Barcelona, Spain.
Twelve students are chosen out of the
Concert Choir conducted by Ryan to go
on the trip, which lasts seven days.
They leave the day after graduation.
Ryan said that she and her students are
“basically ambassadors of good will…we
sing and we connect on a personal level
with other musicians. We experience
the culture of other countries and share
experiences where possible and learn as
much as we can about the history of the
culture not only in terms of music, but
also the food, language and geography
of the country.”
While in Barcelona, the students will
sing in special venues — formal and
extemporaneous concerts alike.
“We have sung in restaurants, town
squares and even in airplanes before,”
Ryan said.
Senior Kayla Nash, who went on
two previous trips with Ryan, said
she is excited for “the adventure and
travelling…we get to meet so many new
and different people…it’s such a unique
and amazing experience.”
The group will stay at the Rombla, an
open air market along the street, and will
see Parque Guell Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia
among other architectural works.
Senior Kara Stadelman, producer
of this year’s musical, said she had “a
complete blast” on the two trips she
went on. During her freshman and Tyler Stauffer photo
sophomore year’s she travelled to Poland Ryan and 12 choir students will be going on a seven day trip to Barcelona.
and Ireland.
know each other,” she said. countries are like.”
“It was so much fun, especially with
Stadelman said she hopes to “explore a In previous years, Ryan and her
other members of the choir…in class
different place and see a new culture and students have gone to Honduras, Ireland
we don’t really get a chance to talk to
to gain an appreciation of what other and Poland.
each other, but on the trips we can get to

Check, please: Erie restaurant review

Under the Clock’s food underheated
By Gretchen Beth Yori
Staff writer
Under the Clock may have
the right atmosphere, but
the food comes without my
recommendation.
Unfortunately, for as beautiful
of a restaurant Under the Clock
is, set in the Boston Store of
downtown Erie, the food lacked
zing.
Two entrees, an appetizer and
one dessert to share for two
totaled about $55, a tad over
priced for the quality of the
meal.
I started my meal with Mussel
Provencal, priced at $9.95,
which were appetizing.
However, the side salad that
came with each entrée was
nothing special, some lettuce,
tomato, shredded carrots and
choice of dressing.
I had the house dressing,
which was strawberry vinaigrette;
it was a dressing I felt did not
complement the salad.
It took more an hour for my
date and I’s entrées’ to arrive.
This would have been
understandable if the restaurant
had been busy, but the restaurant
did not appear extremely busy;
we did not have to wait to be
seated.
I decided to have the
Raspberry Salmon, priced at
$16.95, which came with a side
of rice and spinach.
After waiting more than 60
minutes to get my actual meal,
I was extremely disappointed
when it was served ice cold and
no compensation was made to
my bill for this inconvenience.
After about 10 minutes, my
waiter came over to see how my
meal was, and I explained it was
ice cold.
My waiter, Joe, offered to have
the kitchen reheat it for me.
I allowed him to take my
plate, and when he returned my
meal was luke warm, and I was
frustrated.
I ate my luke warm salmon
and cold rice, and had a glass of
the house Merlot priced at $5 a
glass.
I feel if my food had been
served at the right temperature
the meal would have been
delicious.
However, the dessert was
perfecto! I shared a piece of the
Crème Raspberry Waltz with
my date.
We agreed the dessert was
not overly-sweet, had a smooth
texture and the presentation was
beautiful.
The slice had a raspberry
syrup drizzled over the entire
plate. Dessert was priced at
$4.75 a slice.
The menu for the restaurant
had a large assortment of
choices ranging from streaks, to
burgers, to seafood, however,
a tad pricey for the average
college student.
The desert menu had multiple
choices, including house
specialty desserts made by the
manager.
Unfortunately, I was not
impressed with the food, the
atmosphere was relaxed and the
servers were pleasant.
For the price of the food I
felt the entrée should have been
served sooner and warmer.
I can say the serving sizes
were descent.
However, I’d say if
Mercyhurst College students are
heading downtown, I would not
Gretchen Beth Yori
recommend Under the Clock,
Under the Clock is located in
since the price of the meal did
the Boston Store of down-
not match the quality of it. town Erie.
Page 8 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT February 4, 2009

Dance Department showcases ‘Raw’ talent

By Sarah Mastrocola
Staff writer

The Dance Department’s student choreography

performance, “Raw Edges XI,” will take place on Sat-
urday and Sunday in the Mary D’Angelo Performing
Arts Center.
Shows take place at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday
and 2 p.m. on Sunday.
“Raw Edges,” an annual event for the Dance
Department, is occurring for the 11th time. The show-
with exciting choreography and impressive dancing.
Each show features different performances.
The dance concert features choreography by stu-
dents in the Dance Department’s Choreography II
and III classes, which are taught by Mark Santillano
and Tauna Hunter.
The Saturday matinee performance differs from
the Saturday night and Sunday shows, allowing the
audience the chance to see new and different works
even from show to show.
Each performance will involve an informal inter-
mission chat during which the choreographers will
discuss their pieces and the audience may ask ques-
tions.
The choreography to be performed varies greatly in
dance genre and style.
The selections range from ballet to more modern
and contemporary movement types. The different
ideas explored by the pieces are equally varied, with Mark Santillano photos

themes including drug addiction, street performers, Above, sophomore Chris

mischievous troublemakers, starving artists and the
search for peace, among many others.
Similarly diverse musical selections were made by
the choreographers, with featured music including
artists such as Apocalyptica, John Legend, Emma
Snaplin, Incubus, Placebo and Vitamin String Quar-
tet, as well as a section of John Williams’ score from
“Schindler’s List.”
One piece includes dance performed to spoken
poetry written by senior Hazel Jennings.
Junior Trevor Sones, a Choreography III student,
said of the “Raw Edges” experience, “I personally
love Raw Edges, because it gives me the chance to
work on my own personal dance style and choreog-
raphy.”
“It is a great opportunity as a student to experiment
with different choreographic processes and work with
all the theatrics, such as lighting for instance,” Sones
said.
“[Raw Edges is] a great experience that has really
helped me discover myself as a dancer,” sophomore
Brieänna Hynish said.
Choreography III student Caitlin Roberts said, “I
thoroughly enjoy the choreographic process. It is so ful-
filling to be allowed to create. This year has been espe-
cially exciting for me as a choreographer, because I have
been collaborating with a fellow artist. Collaborating
with a poet has allowed me to create my own message
with dance and have it further portrayed with spoken
word.”
“One of the things that I find truly unique about this
Taddiken jumps through
a hoop created by senior
Justin Hogan and sophomore
Sarah Hricko. Below, junior
Trevor Sones, Taddiken and
Hogan toss Hricko in the air.
particular show is the display of
different styles of dance and the
arrangement of pieces for each
performance,” sophomore Nicole
Lyons said.
“It’s very enlightening for me as
a choreographer to see and watch
my peers develop their own pieces
through their styles,” Lyons, a
Choreography II student, said.
Tickets for “Raw Edges” are
only $1 for Mercyhurst College students and $7.50 for
President’s Cardholders. For regular admission, tickets
are $15 for adults, $12.50 for seniors and students and
$5 for youths under 15 years of age.
Tickets may be purchased at the PAC box office in
advance or at the door, or by calling (814) 824-3000.
February 4, 2009
The Fray releases self-titled sophomore album
By Casey Harvilla
Contributing writer
When The Fray formed in
2002, I doubt the Denver-
based quartet thought they
would be so successful.
The Fray released two inde-
pendent EPs before recording
their debut album, “How to
Save a Life.”
The album, released in 2005,
featured the radio-friendly hit
“Over My Head (Cable Car),”
which was inspired by lead
singer Isaac Slade’s relation-
ship with his brother, also a
former member of the band.
The album’s second single
and title track gained familiar-
ity after being used in televi-
sion spots for ABC’s “Grey’s
Anatomy.”
The album was certified
double platinum and reached
No. 1 on charts in Ireland,
Bulgaria, Canada and Spain.
The band’s poppy, yet soul-
ful, piano rock is appealing to
all generations.
The Fray has been com-
pared to U2, Better Than Ezra,
Counting Crows and Coldplay.
Off-Campus Student
Housing
Several 3-4 bedroom houses,
All within 10 minutes of campus
Appliances Included
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Available starting in June
Call 814-397-9609
for information or showing.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
It is also safe to say that
although these comparisons
are sure to continue, The Fray
is definitely making their own
mark in the music industry.
The Fray’s self-titled sopho-
more album was released on
Tuesday and showcases 10
solid, yet varying songs.
The album starts on a very
hopeful note with the track
“Syndicate.” A strong opener,
“Syndicate” holds a message
of not giving up because, as
the lyrics state, “…we haven’t
lost it all yet.”
Another track carrying a
similar message is “Never Say
Never,” an anthemic ballad
with a chorus referencing the
importance of people falling
apart and coming together.
The first single off the new
album is “You Found Me.”
Marketed in the same gen-
eral way as “How to Save a
Life,” the song was featured
in television spots for ABC’s
“Lost.”
The Fray could not have
chosen a better track as a
single release.
With its poetic lyrics and
melody, “You Found Me” def-
initely draws attention to the
band and lets listeners know
The Fray’s music has matured.
One of the darker tracks is
called “Ungodly Hour.”
Featuring lead vocals by
guitarist Joe King, “Ungodly
Hour” has an eerie, yet beauti-
ful sound.
In contrast, the final track
Page 9
find happiness in
unexpected situa-
tions.
The Fray has
come very far
since playing
garages and par-
ties in Denver.
Over the course
of four short
years, the band
has managed
to create music
appealing to sev-
eral generations
thefray.net while staying true
to themselves.
Band members Isaac Slade, Dave
If they continue
Welsh, Joe King and Ben Wysocki
contributed to The Fray’s on their current
self-titled sophomore album, path, they will
released Tuesday. continue to create
and inspire for
years and years to
on the album, “Happiness,” is come – and I look
a lighthearted, yet full-bodied forward to hear-
song simply about trying to ing it.
DOWNLOAD
The Fray “You Found Me”
The Fray’s “You Found Me” continues their
trend of radio-friendly hits heading back to
“Over My Head (Cable Car),” “How to Save
a Life” and “She Is.” Their entire self-titled
album is worth a listen.
Eric Hutchinson “Rock and Roll”
A great song of piano rock, check out
Eric Hutchinson’s ode to regret-free
guys and girls getting together after a
carefree weekend at the bars. It’s in the
same vein as much of Billy Joel and Ben Folds.
Fionn Regan ”Be Good or Be Gone”
Regan’s album, “The End of History,”
has a number of great, folksy,
meandering songs that stick with
listeners. Other favorites include “Put
a Penny in the Slot,” “Bunker or Basement,” “Snowy
Atlas Mountains” and the title song.
Page 10
‘Dear Zachary’ to play as part of Guelcher Film Series
By Mason Lorek
Staff writer
When I finished watching
“Dear Zachary: A letter to his
son about his father,” I didn’t
have the slightest clue what to
say. It is one of the saddest and
most traumatic films I’ve ever
seen. This film is about director
Kurt Kuenne’s quest to memo-
rialize his friend who was mur-
dered by his friend’s wife.
To make the situation even
worse, at the time his wife was
pregnant with Kuenne’s friend’s
unborn son, to whom the docu-
mentary became directed.
I turned off my television
knowing I had to somehow
write an article on what I had
just seen, but I didn’t have the
words.
I felt multiple emotions at the
same time I didn’t know where
to start or how to focus my
energy.
I debated not writing this
article at all, knowing even if I
could sort out my thoughts, I
could not do justice to the life-
time of memories, experiences
and ultimate devastation that
Kurt Kuenne managed to con-
dense into a 95-minute docu-
mentary.
I walked around the house
for a while, occasionally coming
Black History Month celebrated in Cummings Gallery
By Alaina Rydzewski
Staff writer
Mercyhurst College has been
the host of numerous events on
campus throughout the school
year for the “Beyond the Dream”
Martin Luther King Jr. yearlong
celebration.
Since February is nationally
recognized as Black History
Month, there will be two events
Kurt Kuenne’s documentary ‘Dear Zachary’ will play at the
Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center Wednesday, Feb. 11, at
2:15 and 8 p.m as part of the Guelcher Film Series.
back into my room to stare at
the blank Microsoft Word docu-
ment opened on my computer,
unable to write anything.
I sent a few text messages and
made some phone calls trying to
talk to people about something,
anything, I could turn into an
article. I opened up iTunes and
turned on a Counting Crows
song I’ve been listening to lately,
called “Anna Begins.”
As I listened to Adam Duritz
sing about falling in love with a
girl and trying to push his feel-
ings away, I knew what I wanted
to say.
I tend to walk a fine line
between biting my tongue and
telling people how I feel. In
a situation where I would be
tempted to say something nega-
planned in accordance with the
college’s yearlong celebration.
These will be the “Hateful
Things” exhibit in the Cum-
mings Gallery and the Choral
Performance “Freedom Songs”
by the Martin Luther King, Jr.
Gospel Choir, the Mercyhurst
College Concert Choir, Carpe
Diem Women and community
soloists in the Mary D’Angelo
Performing Arts Center.
The art exhibit opens Tuesday,
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
pac.mercyhurst.edu
tive or otherwise voice my dis-
pleasure, I generally avoid con-
frontation and keep my thoughts
to myself.
However, at times where I
feel the need to express posi-
tive emotions such as gratitude,
affection or love, I nearly always
spill my guts.
Most times it comes out awk-
ward or makes someone feel
uncomfortable, but to me there’s
nothing embarrassing about
expressing emotions. I planted
the seed and maybe it will grow,
but even if it doesn’t, I’ve made
an attempt.
At the very least it’s a compli-
ment, and if it makes the person
smile, even if only for a second,
it is absolutely worth saying.
I know this half page of ram-
Feb. 17, in the Cummings Gal-
lery and is open to the public
through Wednesday, Feb. 25.
The Cummings Gallery is
open Tuesday through Sunday,
from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., and
Thursday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
The Gallery is free to attend.
It contains 39 items, artifacts
and images from the Jim Crow
Museum of Racist Memorabilia
at Ferris State University.
All of the pieces illustrate
bling is far from organized and
doesn’t make much sense.
I hope you choose to watch
“Dear Zachary” next week,
and I hope you are able to have
some appreciation of where I’m
coming from.
Because of watching the film,
I’m taking this opportunity to
various effects of the racist Jim
Crow legacy such as the violence
shown toward African Ameri-
cans at the time, as well as the
fight for civil rights.
There are explanations by
each of the works in the hopes
that the spectator will no longer
overlook racial stereotypes in
modern-day society.
After viewing the premiere on
the 17th, viewers can then pro-
ceed to the PAC to hear “Free-
February 4, 2009
cinematical.com
tell the important people in my
life what they mean to me, and I
encourage you to do the same.
“Dear Zachary” will play
Wednesday, Feb. 11, at 2:15 and
8 p.m.
Tickets are free for Mercy-
hurst students (one ticket per
student ID).
dom Songs,” gospel music sung
by various choirs and soloists.
Students, faculty and members
of the Erie community are all
invited to attend the free events.
Additional questions can be
directed to history professor
Dr. John Olszowka at extension
3027 or jolszowka@mercyhurst.
edu or English professor Dr.
Christina Riley-Brown at exten-
sion 2350 or crileybrown@mer-
cyhurst.edu.
February 4, 2009
The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the views of Mercyhurst College, the staff of The Merciad
or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are always welcomed and can be e-mailed to opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.
Defending Earth-friendly practices
Green Team leadership fires back at Hallam
In response to Seth Hallam’s
“How green is going green”
opinion piece last week, we
want to thank Mr. Hallam for
his interest in these issues and
for noting perceived weaknesses
in Mercyhurst’s green initiatives.
However, Mr. Hallam’s sug-
gestion that Mercyhurst Col-
lege’s commitment to going
green is less than genuine could
not be further from the truth.
With four buildings heated and
cooled by geothermal energy,
solar panels helping to power
the maintenance building and
30 percent of our electricity
coming from wind turbines,
this college is among the lead-
ing institutions of higher educa-
tion in the state of Pennsylvania
when it comes to investing in
renewable energy.
Other initiatives such as ret-
rofitting student apartments,
installing compact fluorescents
and motion sensors are all
aimed at further strengthening
Keeping phone etiquette intact
By Rhonda
Marable
Staff writer
Does anyone miss the days
when people, especially teenag-
ers, had manners when using the
phone? When someone called,
introduced themselves, and then
politely asked for someone.
I’m only asking because it
seems to me more teenag-
ers, and some adults, don’t
know how to talk to people on
the phone.
In my Asian Cultures class
earlier this week, we had a dis-
cussion about how some people
don’t know how to talk to
anyone but their friends on the
this commitment.
Mr. Hallam is correct to point
out personal behavior is essen-
tial. Turning off light switches
(aided, we hope, by the new
“LIGHTS OUT” decals) and
computers when not in use is
an essential and simple act of
personal responsibility. They are
every bit as important as smart
public policies in advancing the
goals of national energy inde-
pendence and solving the cli-
mate crisis.
Mr. Hallam should know the
college uses a more environ-
mentally benign de-icing mate-
rial than standard road salt.
Going without plowing and salt
entirely, however, is simply not
a practical option. In keeping
with our campus master land-
scape plan, our landscape crew
has begun to institute a more
environmentally sensitive regi-
men. The idea of composting
our yard and vegetable kitchen
waste is an excellent proposition,
phone.
I would have to agree—my
two younger brothers’ friends
call the house and I deal, first
hand, with their versions of
“polite phone etiquette.” I don’t
expect too much—an introduc-
tion and a question, that’s all.
If you’re a stranger calling
my house, “Hey, this is James,
let me speak to Marc,” doesn’t
follow the formula. You have
the introduction down, but then
you follow it with a statement
rather than a question. And
I’m sorry, but you don’t call my
house demanding anything from
me unless you’re a government
official or an older relative.
Also, is it too much to expect
for someone to know who they
OPINION Page 11
Where Really doing
readers enough?
one which we have explored for
years. The problem is space.
share their By Seth
We invite you to participate
in Green Team discussions of
thoughts. Hallam
Staff writer
this issue.
As for Recyclemania, although Once again, we thank you Thank you for your response.
current economic conditions in for your input and invite you I’m not disputing whether
the country have driven down to become part of Green Team steps are being taken to go green.
the value of recyclable materials discussions about these vital What I’m disputing is if the
in the market, the answer to that issues affecting our future. steps taken are serious enough,
macroeconomic problem is not Sincerely, and how much benefit they
to discontinue recycling. The Margaux Valenti have for the environment. Also, I
recycling market will rebound. Zachary Pekor already do help out, by paying the
The ecological fact remains, Dr. Chris J. Magoc “Green Fee” of $5 every term.
manufacturing products from
recycled materials invariably uses
less energy, less water and fewer
natural resources than making
things from virgin resources.
Deeply embedded in the
Mercyhurst mission, our moral
and ethical obligation is to be
good stewards of our resources. If you don’t want it printed . . . don’t let it happen.
Recycling is a vital element of Editors Positions @mercyhurst.edu
fulfilling that responsibility. Casey Greene Editor-in-Chief editormerciad
Using recycling containers for JoEllen Marsh Managing Editor mgeditormerciad
trash is clearly unacceptable and Amanda Valauri News Editor newsmerciad
a violation of college policy. Javi Cubillos Features Editor featuremerciad
Heather Donovan Opinion Editor opinionmerciad
are calling beforehand?
Brad Moehringer
Sam Sellinger
Kyle King
Sports Editor
Sports Editor
A&E
sportsmerciad
sportsmerciad
entertainmentmerciad
When it comes to my cell Scoot Williams Photographer photomerciad
phone I’m most likely the only Tyler Stauffer Photographer photomerciad
one answering it. So why call me Caitlin Bly Advertising Manager admerciad
and ask “Who’s this?” Gretchen Yori Copy Editor copymerciad
Sometimes I feel like I’m part Ashley Pastor General Assignment apasto22
of a bad knock, knock joke. Bill Welch Adviser wwelch
Perhaps you don’t know who Brian Sheridan Adviser bsheridan
you’re calling when you see
you have a missed call; it hap- The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst
pens sometimes. So when you
College. It is published throughout the school year, with the exception of
call this number and someone
answers I think it’s friendlier to
finals weeks. Our office is in Hirt, Room 120B. Our telephone number is (814)
say “Hi/Hello, this is Rhonda, 824-2376.
I received a missed call from
this number, did someone try to The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor. All letters must be signed
contact me?” and names will be included with the letters. Although we will not edit the
It may not be the coolest thing letters for content, we reserve the right to trim letters to fit. Letters
you’ve ever said, but sometimes are due Mondays. by noon and may not be more than 300 words. Submit
cool has to take a back seat to
manners. letters to box PH 485 or via e-mail at opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.
Page 12
Free election in Iraq goes unrecognized
By Devin Ruic
Contributing writer
Last week something amaz-
ing happened– and yet almost
no one noticed it. Last week,
something historic happened,
and 15-day President Barack
Obama ignored it. Last week,
millions of free individuals lined
up and dipped their fingers in
purple ink, signifying they voted
in a free and fair provincial elec-
tion for one of the first times in
Mesopotamian history… and it
happened in Iraq.
The daily coverage we hear
from news organizations across
Speeding up your
sluggish stride
By Jordan
Zangaro
Staff writer
The snow is blinding, literally
burning your face. All you want
to do is be inside under every
blanket you can get your frost-
bitten hands on. But you can’t.
There is an enormous force
stopping you, slowing every step
as the fury inside you grows and
you lose feeling in all 10 toes.
Eight to 12 people are mosey-
ing their way through our Erie
wonderland. They clearly want
to soak in the beautiful scenery
of brown slush and icicles as
tall as Old Main. Not to men-
tion, who doesn’t want to slowly
walk through a blizzard, flakes
drenching your hair, forcing you
to look like a wet dog?
Before I go any further I
should address the speed at
which I normally walk. I am
usually in my own world and
walking very slow. But, I am just
one, small person. I barely take
up any room on the icy sidewalk.
My salt-covered jeans and soak-
the globe cover numerous
Middle Eastern conflicts, blam-
ing Israelis for defending them-
selves against terrorist attacks,
accusing Iraqi military person-
nel of impropriety and con-
victing Americans for alleged
crimes against humanity, with-
out proof.
The news could have car-
ried the happier story of a calm
election, where 200 women ran
for political positions in the
450 seats of 14 Iraqi provincial
assemblies. Fifteen-day Presi-
dent Barack Obama could have
mentioned these elections in his
very first Presidential television
interview, he gave last Monday
ing-wet boots have had it.
I’m happy you’ve found a
group of walking buddies,
having a wonderful time and
this repetitive, gloomy weather
hasn’t got you down.
But, is it necessary to sing
carols of joy while blocking the
entire sidewalk?
Less-happy people are just
trying to survive, and we don’t
have a cheerful note to offer
your charade. These pessimis-
tic pieces aren’t my favorite to
write. It just seemed unavoid-
able since it took me 25 minutes
to get home from the gym the
other night. A gang of cheer-
ful carolers wouldn’t get out of
my way.
My too-close-to-be-anything-
but-a-stalker walk or my obnox-
ious exhale of annoyance did
not even cause a stutter in their
sluggish stride.
When I ran track in high school
we would yell, “TRACK!” when
we were coming up behind
someone so they would move.
Maybe Mercyhurst should
come up with the same kind
of system.
Any suggestions?
OPINION
to Hisham Melhem, a Saudi-
owned, Dubai-based, Al-Ara-
biya, satellite network.
If you haven’t caught on
by the tone of this article, the
newly-inaugurated President of
the United States decided to
ignore the historic and peaceful
elections in Iraq to speak about
restoring the “respect and part-
nership that America had with
the Muslim world as recently as
20 or 30 years ago.”
It’s 2009… let me do the
math — 2009 subtract 30…
would be 1979. The year Ayatol-
lah Khomeini returned to Iran
and first called us the “Great
Satan.” Also, 53 Americans were
Cultural short-comings
felt around the world
By Jerrod
Markle
Staff writer
I did not choose the title to
last week’s article. I do not think
it is necessary to beg with Intel
to see things my way.
Our culture is destroying the
delicate web of relationships we
weave with nature, our neigh-
bors, ourselves and our myths.
This week, I attended the
Burmese refugee talk where two
men spoke about fleeing their
country. I asked how to resolve
the issue of displaced refugees
that are raped by our cultures
addiction to corporations such
as Chevron, Toyota and Ameri-
can tourism that feels entitled to
exploit our Burmese neighbors’
land base and humanity?
Now after our unsustainable
and violent culture supported
the evil military junta forcing
these men to flee their families
and homes, they came to Erie,
another place dependent upon
on the same destructive system.
An Erie Institute representa-
tive told me to raise awareness
February
September 3, 4, 2009
2008
abducted from the American
Embassy in Iran and held hos-
tage for 444 days, until former
President Ronald Reagan came
into office.
A few years later, still within
the 20-30 year time line Presi-
dent Obama provided, 241 Bleed that black and gold
American service people died in Steeler fans. The Steeler
a terrorist bombing of their bar- Country held strong for
racks in Beirut, Lebanon. their sixth Super Bowl win.
The days following, rescu- As for the local angle: The
ers were repeatedly attacked by only thing more annoying
sniper fire– obviously the epit- than a Steeler fan is an any-
ome of “respect and partner- thing-but-Steeler fan.
ship.” Welcome back, President
Jimmy Carter.
Did the peanut farm
get boring?
of the issues and write a letter to The Green Team has
Obama about the problem.
taken some hits lately, and
After nearly coming to tears
their full-page, full-color
when being told to write to
ads plastered around cam-
a corporate puppet pleading pus aren’t helping their
he recognize the problems he reputation as a landscape-
is causing and dismantle the
system that gave him his power,
friendly organization.
I just sat in silence.
I believe, no matter how
much love you show an abu-
sive person, the already alien-
ating and violent facets of this
destructive relationship will not
be resolved.
We need to stop putting false
hope, tangible efforts and real
time into creating beliefs of a
second coming, the system or
corporate pawns will resurrect
Punxsutawney Phil saw
equal rights and justice.
his shadow last Saturday,
We should harness these
locking in this dreadful
misplaced energies to hold
weather for the next six
those responsible for crimes
weeks. Hopefully he didn’t
against the planet and humanity
predict a lasting dark cloud
accountable. Ecocide and geno-
over the economy as well.
cide do not get solved by relying
on some mysterious ‘other’ of
Please e-mail any suggestions to
endless love and peace, nor by
opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.
passively submitting to or suck-
The GB&U is a compilation of
ling the benefits of the system
student opinions.
responsible for the very atroci-
ties we claim to oppose.

Lakers fall to No.3 Vulcans
Junior Amy Achesinski scored nine points in the Lakers 56-45 win over Clarion on Jan. 28 at
the Mercyhurst Athletic Center.
By Sarah Powell
Staff writer
Despite the outcome of Sat-
urday’s game against the No. 3
Vulcans of California University
of Pennsylvania, the Lakers put
up a good fight for 40 minutes
However, Cal (Pa.) came out
with an offensive attack in the
second half putting the game
out of reach, building their lead
to 36 points. The Vulcans went
on to defeat Mercyhurst College
91-64.
Despite the outcome, several
Lakers ended the game with per-
sonal bests. Sophomore Saman-
tha Loadman had six assists and
three steals, both career highs.
Junior Kelsey Gordon scored
and freshman Megan Hoff-
man netted a career-high nine
points.
The Lakers continue their
PSAC West play today as they
take on long time rivals, the
Golden Knights of Gannon
University at 5:30 p.m. Gannon
is currently 16-3 overall and 3-2
in PSAC West play.
Junior Stevie Spetoskey is
confident in her team.
“The Cal game gave us the
confidence that we can com-
pete against good teams,” Spe-
toskey said. “We are using the
Cal game as motivation to beat
Gannon. It’s going to be a good
game.”
Junior Jackie Artise is ready
Jim Cooper photo
to give Gannon a run for
its money.
“The Gannon-Mercyhurst
rivalry always promises a great
game. I am excited to get out
there to prove what Mercyhurst
is all about and show what we
can accomplish as a team,”
Artise said.
“Beating Gannon is exciting
in itself, but what the women’s
basketball team has to gain by
beating Gannon this year is the
most exciting part,” Artise said.
Tickets for the game were
pre-sale, therefore no tickets will
be sold at the door. Any tickets
left are available for purchase
today from 9 a.m. until noon.
Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and it
is expected to be a sellout.
Men’s Hockey...................................Jan. 30, T 4-4 No. 19 Air Force
Jan. 31, W 3-2, No. 19 Air Force
Women’s Hockey......................Jan. 30, W 4-2, No. 10 Wayne State
Jan. 31, W 4-2, No. 10 Wayne State
Men’s Basketball........................................Jan. 28, W 75-64, Clarion
Jan. 31, W 66-64, California (Pa.)
Women’s Basketball..................................Jan. 28, W 56-45, Clarion
Jan. 31, L 91-64, No. 3 California (Pa.)
Wrestling......................................................Jan. 31, W 20-14, Ashland
Editors’ Games of the Week
Tonight the men’s and women’s basketball teams of cross-town
rival Gannon University visit the Mercyhurst Athletic Center to
take on the Lakers in the annual battle for Erie bragging rights.
We suggest heading over the MAC to check out the women’s game
which starts at 5:30 p.m., and then stick around for the men’s game
which tips-off right after at 7:30 p.m. to cheer on Mercyhurst.
Two Lakers earn weekly CHA honors
After a weekend sweep of College Hockey America rival No. 10
Wayne State, two members of the Mercyhurst College women’s
hockey team earned weekly CHA honors. Freshman Jess Jones
was named CHA Offensive Player of the Week, while freshman
Hillary Pattenden earned CHA Rookie of the Week.
Grife makes another preseason watch list
Junior starting pitcher Steve Grife was recently named to another
preseason Players to Watch list. Baseball America named Grife a
Player to Watch for the upcoming season and was named the No.
3 prospect in Division II for the 2009 Draft.
Jess Jones-Women’s Hockey
Jones, a forward from Picton, O.N. scored three goals in the Lakers
weekend sweep over CHA rival Wayne State. Jones scored one goal
on Friday night and followed up with two goals Saturday after-
noon.
Nnamdi Nnadili-Men’s Basketball
Nnadili, a junior from Washington D.C., scored a team high 15
points in the Lakers 66-64 win over California (Pa.) on Jan. 31 and
hit the go-ahead three pointer with 55 seconds left to seal the win.
Page 14
Lakers ground No.19 Air Force in overtime
By Nick Glasier
Staff writter
The No. 19 Air Force Falcons
rolled into town looking to
continue their climb up the
rankings. Still, they did not
expect their wings to be clipped
in a stunning 3-2 overtime on a
breakaway goal by sophomore
Mike Gurtler on Saturday.
Senior defenseman Kirk
Meternach said, “This was one
of the biggest weekends we
had all year, and we knew that
so we prepared to play our best
hockey.”
Despite being outshot 45
to 25 and 44 to 24, the Lakers
managed to finish the weekend
with a stunning overtime
victory and a 4-4 tie on Friday
night playing some of their best
hockey this year.
Sophomore goalie Ryan
Zapolski played outstanding in
goal saving 83 out of 89 shots
on the weekend by the Falcons.
“The key performance of the
series came from Ryan Zapolski
in net, he played phenomenal
both nights and gave us a chance
to win every game,” Meternach
Reebok’s cash-grabbing stunt ruins jerseys
By John
Baranowski
Sports columnist
The Reebok Edge jerseys
are ruining hockey jerseys as
we know it. Collectors and
enthusiasts have known this
since it happened.
In 2003, Reebok proposed
a new hockey uniform system
that was skin tight and super-
futuristic, intended to cut down
on wind resistance and make
players allegedly 9 percent
Senior Matt Pierce (21) wins posession of the puck at the
men’s hockey game against Air Force on Friday, Jan. 30.
said of Zapolski,
After the series, the Lakers
improved to 12-12-3 and 10-6-3
in Atlantic Hockey play.
The Lakers started off the
weekend slow in Friday’s game
versus Air Force going down 3-
0 in the first period.
The slow first period put the
Lakers down 3-0, however, they
were not out yet.
faster.
The league owners rejected it
unanimously.Early prototypes
made players look like a cross
between ice dancers and
sausages.
One year later, the NHL
accepted them. They were so
incredibly tight that the players
constantly complained. When
the NBA rejected the new
jerseys, RBK loosened the cut a
bit, everywhere but the sleeves.
Still, players balked. New
materials called Play-Dry were
advertised not to absorb water
SPORTS
Tyler Stauffer photo
The Lakers stormed back
with a renewed energy in the
second period to make the game
interesting.
Sophomore Scott Pitt scored
a power play goal..
At 10:14, junior Neil Graham
scored on assists from senior
Kirk Meternach and freshman
Phil Ginand to bring the game
to 3-2.
or sweat. The sweat didn’t go
away, it pooled in the gloves and
skates instead, forcing players to
change equipment every period.
RBK appointed three player
representatives to support the
jerseys on each team to combat
complaints.
Every team was required to
design a new jersey to fit these
new patterns. The results are
horrific. Many teams, such
as Toronto, got rid of the
traditional stripes on the bottom
of their jerseys. Untucked-dress-
shirt-like bottoms of the jerseys
Then at 16:06, sophomore
Steve Cameron hit his 16th
lamplighter of the season.
Then junior Neil Graham
struck again at 17:29 on assists
from Meternach and Ginand,
giving the Lakers the lead 4-3
going into the third period.
The third period was
highlighted by Zapolski making
16 of his 40 saves for the game.
However, the Falcons would
score with a 6-5 advantage
at 19:05, sending the game to
an uneventful overtime ending
with a 4-4 tie.
Saturday, the Lakers started
off the game with sophomore
Ryan Raven scoring on a
deflection goal at 6:43.
The Lakers outshot the
Falcons 10-9 in the first period;
this would be the only period
the Lakers would outshoot the
Falcons all weekend.
The Falcons would storm
back in the second period
outshooting the Lakers 19-5.
However, Zapolski only
allowed one goal in this lopsided
period.
A goal by Air Force’s Josh
Frider from his knees at 5:05
brought the game to a 1-1
make stripes look diaper-esque
for teams like Chicago that kept
the stripes. The vertical stripes
that Calgary added aren’t meant
for hockey jerseys, and random
piping cause an apron-like
appearance on Florida’s jerseys
or is pointless, like on those of
Carolina.
The templates of Pittsburgh
and Ottawa are lame, and where
shoulder striping stops abruptly
on the back neck of the St.
Louis jersey so the Reebok logo
can be highlighted, is abysmal.
Jersey fabrics change all the
February 4, 2009
deadlock at the end of the
period.
The Lakers opened the third
period with a goal by sophomore
Nick Vadenbeld at 11:48.
Then the Falcons responded
with a shorthanded goal by
Brent Olson at 15:31 to close
the third period with a 2-2 tie
and throw the game to overtime
yet again.
Overtime started off with the
Falcons testing Zapolski with
five unanswered shots, but the
Zapolski would not yield.
Then sophomore Mike
Gurtler poked away a pass from
two defensemen and beat Air
Force goalie Andrew Vokening
on a one on one goal low and
to the left with 1:51 remaining
to shock the Falcons with
a 3-2 Mercyhurst College
overtime victory.
The Lakers will look to extend
their 5-0-1 record in their sixth
game of a nine home stand.
The Lakers will play Canisius
College on Tuesday, Feb.
3, at home and then a two
game series against American
International College on
Friday, Feb.6, and Saturday,
Feb. 7.
time, and I am not opposed.
However, jersey designs have
never changed because of a
fabric change. What RBK has
done is perpetrate a cash-grab
of epic proportions, capitalizing
on the people who buy a jerseys.
As they slowly take over, I refuse
to support Reebok and will not
wear an Edge jersey. I cringe at
every Winter Classic jersey or
new Crosby jersey I see.
I send this plea to all hockey
fans: Vote with your wallets,
save your money and save the
jersey.
February 4, 2009
Women’s hockey keeps perfect conference record
Lakers defeat Wayne State at back-to-back home games
By Katie Waldin
Staff writer
With a roar from the crowd
and loud cheering from the
bench, the Mercyhurst College
women’s hockey team stunned
Wayne State University with two
victories this past week.
Defeating the CHA rivals
and squashing their perfect
conference standing, the Lakers
were thrilled to keep their own
perfect conference standing
intact.
“This year our team looks
great. Despite having a very
young group we have done
well to use our strengths,” senior
goaltender Courtney Drennen
said.
Friday night and Saturday
afternoon the Lakers came on to
the ice ready to put up a tough
Page 16
Junior Nnamdi Nnadilli (3)
drives to the basket in the
Lakers’ win over Clarion
with a score of 75-64.
Men’s basketball back on track
By Gary Coad
Staff writer
The Lakers’ men’s basketball
team got back to their old form
this past week after sliding into
a funk.
It seems, the old saying “there
is no place like home” rang true
this past week as the Lakers won
both of their games, defeating
Clarion University and California
University of Pennsylvania.
It took Nnamdi Nnadili
hitting a late three-pointer to
battle against the Warriors.
Setting the standards high, the
Lakers set the tone for the first
match up against Wayne State in
the first period by out shooting
them 17-3.
The Lakers battled their
way until the end of the game,
leaving the ice satisfied and
happy with a 4-2 victory over
one of their biggest conference
rivals.
Saturday afternoon the story
was no different as the Lakers
yet again came to the Mercyhurst
Ice Center prepared and ready
to take on the Warriors one
more time.
The competition was fierce,
and hard work was put in as
Lakers out shot the Warriors
34-25.
The second 4-2 victory
excited the team as they look
forward to more CHA games
later in the week.
With a perfect CHA record,
and being ranked No. 4 in the
nation, Mercyhurst is looking to
move up as they keep pounding
down the competition.
seal the victory over California,
which ended 66-64, but it also
took great defense to hold
that lead for the remaining
minute.
Toward the end of the first
half, it looked like the Lakers
were going to have trouble
holding a lead once again as the
Vulcan’s had a 16-1 scoring run.
Thankfully, this was not
the case. The Lakers capped
the game by sinking their free
throws, which at crunch time
are not always free.
In the game against Clarion,
SPORTS Page 15
“One of our greatest
advantages this year is our speed.
We have several extremely
talented and fast players,”
Drennen said.
Now 16-1 in their last
17 games, 5-0-0 and in the
CHA, and 19-5-0 overall, the
Mercyhurst Lakers are on fire
as the second half of the season
gets under way.
“The rest of the season we
have only league games, which
are huge because our league, the
CHA, is getting more and more
respect,” Drennen said.
“Every year we strive to
defend our CHA regular season
championship, and this season
is no different, so truly every
game is a must win for us.”
As the team moves forward
they will fight hard for their
perfect CHA record as
they move closer to the
playoffs.
This week the Lakers will take
on anther CHA rival as they
play Niagara University on Tyler Stauffer photo
Friday, Feb. 6, and Saturday, Sophomore Ashley Cockell (21) and freshman Meghan Corbett
Feb. 7. (20) control the puck at a game against Wayne State.
Johnson & Johnson
the Lakers won with decent
ease, which was a nice change
of pace as the Golden Eagles
Properties
had defeated the Lakers the past
10 times the teams met.
Senior Brian McTear once
HOUSES FOR RENT
again led the charge with a game
high of 19 points, 16 of them
coming in the second half.
The Lakers concluded the
week at 15-4 overall and a
respectable 3-3 in the PSAC
West.
Starting June 1, 2009
The team is now poised
to take down the Golden
Knights.
814-860-8817
 Laker Sports
Geared up
for
Gannon

After a win over Clarion, Lakers prepare to take on

rival Gannon at 7:30 p.m. tonight
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