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Kelly Vitt conquering on Sustainability office Mercyhurst Theatre program the volleyball court issues challenge to goes to the “Cabaret” students

Read more inside & online he Est. 1929 VTol. 88 No. 5 Merciadednesday ctober Mercyhurst university W , o 15, 2014 Gamble to retire By Nathan Turner Mercyhurst has plenty of time he mentioned the transition News editor to conduct a search, select a to university status, the con- new president, and have that struction of Warde residence At an all-school gath- individual be available here on hall and the Center for Aca- ering on Oct. 13 in the campus to take the helm.” demic Engagement, and the Performing Arts Center, Pres- Gamble plans to return to transition to the 4-1-4 aca- ident Thomas Gamble, Ph.D, “teaching, researching, and demic calendar, as well as the accompanied by Marlene writing” as a member of the establishment of many other Mosco, Chair of the Board of Mercyhurst faculty, after he programs. Trustees and two other board completes a “short sabbati- There were negative aspects members, announced that he cal.” of his tenure as well. Recent would be ending his term as The Board of Trustees years have seen a decline in Mercyhurst University presi- has begun the process to enrollment, as well as the uni- dent at the end of the 2014- find a new university pres- versity being given a warn- 2015 academic year. ident. Mosco has chosen ing in January by the Middle Mosco said that when Gam- Mercyhurst alumni and trust- States Commission for Higher ble’s contract was renewed in ees Richard Lanzillo, ‘83, and Education for not completely 2010, he was insistent that Joseph NeCastro, ‘78, to lead meeting the commission’s “2005 was the Alpha of his the search. standards for accreditation. presidency, and 2015 would Gamble will remain in office Prior to serving as univer- be the Omega of his presi- until the end of his contract, sity president, Gamble was dency.” or until the board selects a Vice President of Academic Gamble, after Mosco’s new president, whichever Affairs, and served as a pro- introduction, said that while comes first. fessor of criminal justice and Zach Dorsch photo “it might seem early to make Gamble’s tenure as pres- psychology. From left: Vice Chair of the Board Richard Lanzillo, University President Thomas Gamble, Vice ident was marked by many an announcement like this,” @TheMerciad Chair of the Board Sister JoAnne Courneen, RSM, in the Performing Arts Center. he wished to “make sure that changes. During his speech, Students react to Gamble’s retirement “He’s done a lot for the school standards. “When [the Com- the resignation did not come that she “thought it might The reaction of Jacob Ochs, By Nathan Turner for his tenure,” Latta says. mission] came through last as a surprise. “Mercyhurst have been a sex scandal.” a senior, may then effectively News editor “He’s done a lot of change.” spring, we were awarded six has gone through so many Anna Wills, a senior, was stand for a great number of Even in the negative aspects letters of commendation,” he changes over the last few “happy to be part of his time the students: “Meh. I don’t Students’ perceptions of of Gamble’s presidency, said. “We may have been in a years, so this isn’t necessarily here.” However, she also really care about bureaucratic Thomas Gamble, Ph.D, were Latta found some positive. warning situation at first, but something that shocks me.” stated that she did not interact politics. It doesn’t really affect varied, as well as their reac- He spoke of the university’s he helped pull us into a situ- Becky Malaga, a senior, much with Gamble himself. me.” tions to the announcement of response to the warning from ation where we’re above the called the resignation Gauging the opinions of the his retirement. the Middle States Commis- rest of the curve.” “sudden.” “You send an email student body was difficult as Nick Latta, Mercyhurst Stu- sion for Higher Education for Other students’ reactions to at 8 a.m., then you announce many people questioned said dent Government President, failing to completely meet the Gamble were more lukewarm. you’re retiring at 10 a.m.” The they did not have an opinion spoke highly of Gamble. commission’s accreditation Kirsten Mueller, a senior, said situation happened so quickly on the matter. @TheMerciad Mercyhurst makes standardized tests optional all aspects of the applicant as their school district, home “another letter of recommen- guidance counselors, Gary guage barrier,” Kitchen said. By Nathan Turner into account. life.” dation … and a graded writ- Froehlich and Emily Craw- The location of Mercyhurst News editor Despite the decision to go ing sample from a class, and ford. However, it would offer also allows them to attend a “The goal is to ‘identify test-optional, the majority of probably an on-campus inter- an increased chance of entry four-year program without Mercyhurst University at applicants are likely to still view,” Beyer said. to students from urban area having to worry about room, the end of 2014-2015 aca- students that may be submit their test scores as part schools within Erie, particu- board, and transportation to demic year will no longer in school districts that of their application, Beyer larly East High School. and from campus, as well as “You’re opening the require applicants to submit don’t have the proper said. “This is definitely going allowing them to maintain the standardized tests as part of “Eighty-five to 90 percent doors to many other to have a huge impact,” said tight-knit family units with testing or training to the application process. of the schools that are on this urban high schools Rob Kitchen, guidance coun- which they currently live. The decision to no longer take the exam.’” plan, the students still submit selor at East High School in “You’re not just open- require standardized tests their scores,” Beyer said. The and giving students Erie. “A lot of our students ing the doors to East High,” come after deliberation within Christian Beyer goal of this push is not to a chance to succeed have good grade point aver- Kitchen said. “You’re open- the school and in the wake “We do require a transcript, increase acceptance rates, but in life.” ages, but they struggle on the ing the doors to many other of many other colleges and SATs or ACTs, letter of rec- to “identify students that may assessments.” urban high schools and giving universities, a total of 850 ommendation, and an essay,” be in school districts that do Rob Kitchen The decision to go test-op- students a chance to succeed schools, taking the step to Beyer said. “If we see stu- not have the proper testing or The decision to go test-op- tional also offers increased in life.” Giving students that become “test-optional.” dents who have a GPA or a training to take the exam.” tional is unlikely to have an opportunities to the refugees chance is the reason for the Christian Beyer, Direc- test score lower than our stan- Students who choose to not effect on the numbers of stu- who attend East High and decision to go test-optional. tor of Admissions, said that dards, we’re not going to com- submit their test scores are dents coming to Mercyhurst consider English their second Mercyhurst has not regarded pletely dismiss that applicant. not necessarily taking the easy from private schools, such language. the tests as “a true indication We’re going to look a little way out. The decisions will be as Mercyhurst Preparatory “This is going to open up of success” at Mercyhurst. He deeper…look at the circum- made by committee, and stu- School, or county schools, doors that they’ve not been said the admissions process at dents who don’t submit test able to have that college expe- stances around them as far such as Fairview High School, @TheMerciad Mercyhurst is“holistic,” taking scores will be asked to submit according to the respective rience because of the lan- Merciad Index Online Poll Results News 1-2 What are your plans for this fall break? Features 3-4 46% Contemplating my life choices 27% Sleeping for four days A&E 5 15% Celebrating Oktoberfest Opinion 6 12% Playing Destiny Sports 7 Be sure to vote in this week’s online poll: Laker Living 8 What are your thoughts on Gamble’s retirement? merciad.mercyhurst.edu Page 2 The Merciad October 15 , 2014 News Erie region receives Advertisement $3 million jobs grant cans” for “ready-to-be-filled- at-risk kids, they’re generally By Catherine Rainey jobs.” not as motivated and that Staff writer This job training opportu- makes it harder for complet- nity has the potential to boost ing employment.” Earlier this month, the the Erie region’s communi- For people looking to enter Northwest Pennsylvania ties in areas such as poverty the workforce as a way to turn Workforce Investment Board reduction, if it is implemented their lives around, motivation received a $3 million federal strategically. is key, he said. grant to use toward job train- “The training would need “Workers seeking these pro- ing in the Erie region. to be focused on building grams are going to be more The WIB, which serves Erie, skills for jobs that there will successful if they’re moti- Clarion, Crawford, Forest, be a demand for, and that pay vated. It has to be an intrin- Venango and Warren coun- wages that are high enough sic motivation,” said Benekos. ties, will utilize the money to to result in family incomes “This is a turning point in find and implement the most moving above the poverty their lives. They accept the effective job training strate- threshold,” said Laura Lewis, responsibility of the job train- gies. Ph.D, professor of sociology ing,” They will be working with and social work. Benekos believes that eli- the Greater Erie Community gibility for job training pro- Action Committee (GECAC) grams will play a large role in to help job seekers prepare “Job training will be determining how successful to fill positions in local busi- focus on ‘ready-to- the programs will be at alle- nesses. work Americans’ for viating crime and creating a GECAC will work with ‘ready-to-be-filled positive impact overall in the workers, employers and region. Northwestern Pennsylvania jobs’” If programs are effective, CareerLink offices, which both workers and employers connect workers and employ- Thomas Perez, can benefit from them. ers on the local level by offer- US Labor Secretary “The general rule of thumb ing materials, consultation is to meet the individual needs services and employment Its impact on crime is also of the employers and the databases. a possibility, although not workers. There has to be a The grant is part of a larger as likely, according to Peter match,” said Benekos. $50.7 million grant from the Benekos, Ph.D., professor of “The biggest return for federal Workforce Innovation criminal justice. investment would be the Fund within the U.S. Depart- “The results are not too people who have assimilated ment of Labor. encouraging,” said Benekos into a work ethic, have some According to U.S. Secretary on whether employment gen- job experience, skills and of Labor Thomas E. Perez in erally has an effect on crime in market force.” the U.S. Department of Labor a community. news release for the grant, “There have been some jobs training will be focused encouraging programs with on “ready-to-work Ameri- older offenders. With young, @TheMerciad

Advertisement October 15, 2014 The Merciad Page 3 Features Sustainability Office challenges university By Ryan Kushner tricity usage currently makes up 60 percent of its total Features Editor greenhouse gas emissions. The Office of Sustainabil- The Mercyhurst Office of ity is dedicated to working to Sustainability has challenged bring this number down. the university to become more Prischak defined sustain- conscious of its energy use. ability as “looking at our Sustainability Officer Brit- and the resources we tany Prischak issued a cam- consume and trying to make pus-wide challenge in The sure we don’t over consume Weekender and the Morning or wastefully consume. Buzz, as well as on the office’s “It’s the idea that our portal page, along with a list resources are finite and we of instructions and tips on need to have them available how to be more energy con- for future generations,” she servative. said. The instructions were Prischak said that despite divided into three different the addition of Warde Hall in categories: one for teachers, 2009 and the Center for Aca- staff and students. demic Engagement in 2012, They focused mainly on the university has managed to conservation tips, such as decrease its electricity use. making sure electronics are The campus has also turned off when exiting decreased its carbon emis- rooms and hallways. sions by 999.80 metric tons Salina Bowe photo Since 2007, Mercyhurst has since 2007. Besides Friday Night Lights Out, the Sustainability Club is also involved working with Parkhurst Dining to compost food scraps in been a signatory of the Amer- “As a university, as a whole, their effort to reduce the campus’ impact on the evironment. ican College and Universities we are doing good,” Prischak ings, the club has continually change habits, arguing that doing here at Mercyhurst used each room last, and issue Presidents’ Climate Commit- said. found that “every week there they are paying for the electric and how that is impacting tickets accordingly. ment (ACUPCC) and is cur- Even so, Prischak said, are always lights left on and and should be able to use it Mercyhurst as a university,” For more information about rently striving to reach carbon though the heating and cool- always projectors left on,” as they please, Prischak said, Prischak continued, “it is how to be more sustainable, neutrality by 2030. In other ing units the campus uses are according to Prischak. “Yes, you are paying a fee to looking at the global impact visit the Office of Sustainabil- words, the university has com- more efficient than before, she “It is kind of frustrating, come to Mercyhurst, you are we are having and how we can ity’s page on the Mercyhurst mitted itself to eliminating or believes that the behavior of because we think that the fac- paying for your education. But decrease that impact…Let’s portal or contact Brittany offsetting all carbon emissions students and faculty has failed ulty should be more respon- that doesn’t mean that you not just think about ourselves. Prischak at bprischak@mer- relating to the Mercyhurst to keep up with the changes. sible, and that is really where should be wasteful…carbon Let’s not be selfish about it.” cyhurst.edu. Erie Campus in the next 16 Since initiating Friday Night our concern is,” she said. emissions are attached to The Sustainability Club has years. Lights Out two years ago, an “That really is one of the our electricity consumption. also begun calculating the cost According to a Green- event performed by the Sus- reasons we started this chal- There are so many emissions of the electricity left on in the house Gas Emissions update tainability Club each week lenge,” said Prischak. “We for every kilowatt we use. rooms that the club checks submitted by the Office of to turn off lights, projectors, really just want to make the Those emissions are causing during Friday Night Lights Sustainability in Jan. 2014, computers and air condition- faculty aware.” global impacts. Out, and are currently plan- Mercyhurst University’s elec- ers in the academic build- To students who refuse to “It is not just what you are ning to discover what class @TheMerciad Sabbath Week set to begin Advertisement

The idea for Sabbath Week, “We were contacted by By Catherine Rainey which in various faith tradi- Campus Ministry and after Contributing writer tions is traditionally a day of they explained what it was rest or time of worship, orig- about we thought it was a With classes and activities inated in Campus Ministry great initiative,” Farley said. in full swing at this point in last year, when Mercyhurst “Our Senate and Board work the semester, Campus Minis- switched from 10-week tri- really hard and they deserve try will be holding “Sabbath mesters into longer 14-week that break, and we wanted to Week,” a time for students to terms. support Campus Ministry.” take a break from meetings “We came up with it as a Although Sabbath Week and activities and use that staff and part of it was the has only been a tradition extra time to re-center. idea for transitioning into in Campus Ministry so far, From Oct. 20 to 25, most semesters,” said Baker. “We Baker says it could poten- Campus Ministry programs, thought it would be healthy tially expand to other offices such as Wednesday Night to have some time off during throughout the university. Fellowship, Thursday Night those terms.” “There may be a time when Bible Study and Habitat for Last year, Campus Ministry doing this will be a more Humanity will be canceled for had a year-long theme of Sab- campus wide thing. We can’t the week. bath. shut down our operations but According to Greg Baker, This year, Campus Minis- there may be other things we director of Campus Minis- try staff will be inviting its can do,” he said. try, students are encouraged 60-plus student leaders to a In accordance with the to take this time to focus on Sabbath Week dinner to thank spirit of the approaching Sab- what is what is most needed them for their hard work. bath Week, Baker’s message to for them- whether it is spend- Mercyhurst Student Gov- students is: ing time with a friend they ernment will be participating “Don’t always let what you have not seen in a while, read- in Sabbath week as well. do define who you are.” ing a Bible or holy text or just The MSG general meet- catching up on sleep. ing on Monday Oct. 20 will “Basically what we’ll con- be canceled, and none of tinue to offer are Mass and the committees will be meet- sacraments and a few medita- ing that week, according to tive things. We won’t be doing Michelle Farley, Student Ativ- any extra meetings,” Baker ities Council Chair on the said. MSG executive board. @TheMerciad CARPE DIEM 3

Contributed photo

This is your chance to be a part of the 3rd Carpe Diem retreat. It is a wonderful experience that continues to be more successful by the year. Carpe Diem will be held November 7-9, leaving at about 4 p.m. on Friday and returning on Sunday around noon. The retreat is based on the Kairos method, but with a twist. There is no religious affiliation, but rather an emphasis on meeting new people and opening up to a truly incredible experience. Sign up in the Campus Ministry Office by Oct. 17 to attend Carpe Diem 3. Contributed by Hanna Briggs Page 4 The Merciad October 15, 2014 Features Moore joins Intelligence Studies Department switching of her major, stepped in. the most successful approach By Kevin Thomas Moore said she “didn’t have a “We had met up about three other professors have had Contributing writer lot of guidance.” years into my doctoral pro- when they have taught me.” She left college after two gram and I was telling him Moore decided to teach Mercyhurst University’s Intel- years and went to work for the about my research and that intel because it is “such a big ligence Studies department United States Department of kind of started a conversation playground.” She thinks there become one of the 10 depart- Defense before deciding to go that took about a year. Next are some “misconceptions ments on campus to introduce back to school. thing I know, I was being about what goes on in Intel, new faculty this year, as they Moore was not initially invited to come back and but we need political scien- welcome Mercyhurst alumna looking to begin a career in teach.” tists, we need geographers, we Kathleen Moore, Ph.D. intelligence studies, but was Moore said she “really liked need scientists and computer Moore, originally from convinced to give it a try by the department, loved the scientists and information sci- , Mich., attended James Breckenridge, Ph.D., program, and thought [she] entists and sociologists. Wayne State University before dean of the Tom Ridge School would give” teaching a shot. “It is a really big sandbox earning her bachelor’s degree for Intelligence Studies and Regarding her teaching for a lot of people to play at Mercyhurst in 2010. Information Science. methods, Moore said she in and it’s where the really Moore went on to attend “I was interested in eco- prefers the Socratic method, big questions can be asked. Pennsylvania State University nomics and history and I met where she will “corner them There’s room for everybody.” where she received her doc- him [Breckenridge] at a func- with questions.” torate in Information Sciences tion and he somehow talked She uses this tactic to “get and Technology in 2014. me into taking an intel class, at the core” of whatever topic She originally majored and it kind of went off from is being discussed, believing it in criminology, but then there,” she said. will allow the class to “peel the Mercyhurst University photo switched to Intelligence Stud- According to Moore, she layers of an onion until you ies at Mercyhurst and later to “actually wasn’t planning on get to its center.” Information Sciences at Penn teaching” either, originally She says the method is State. planning to go back into gov- “the most compatible” with When asked about the ernment work, but Profes- how she thinks and that, add @TheMerciad Mer cyhurst University photo sor Breckenridge once again in that “it has probably been Kathleen Moore, Ph.D., is a professor of intelligence studies ‘Hurst utilizes social media LECTURE MOMENT By Emani Burton about Mercyhurst through Mercyhurst started a social Staff writer social media from as far away media ambassadors program. from California to Asia,” The program encourages Norris said. dialogue between current Mercyhurst’s Social Media Norris’ job entails trans- Mercyhurst students and pro- campaign is continuing its lating information that spective ones. effort to become an increas- people should know about “The greatest purpose of ingly integral part of the uni- Mercyhurst into tweets, Face- our social media campaign is versity’s marketing strategy. book posts, and Instagram to encourage conversation,” On Friday, Oct. 3, the photos. Norris said. hashtag #HURSTisHOME Norris believes social media Norris encourages stu- rang in Homecoming. allows communication across dents who currently attend The hashtag is part of an multiple boundaries. Mercyhurst and have a large aggressive social media cam- “I like to use twitter presence to contact paign on behalf of the uni- when reaching out to parents him about the program. He versity to connect with Lakers and alumni,” says Norris. “It’s believes that this personal past, present and prospective. great to hear from parents view of “’Hurst life” will “We want to showcase the about their confidence in provide prospective students positive experiences here on Mercyhurst. That’s the best the most realistic Mercyhurst campus. To show people that sort of advertising we could experience. Mercyhurst really is a family hope for.” All dialogue, even the neg- community,” says Mercyhurst By using social media, ative is encouraged according University’s Social Media Norris hopes that he can to Norris. He urges students Director, Christopher Norris. bring attention to Mercyhurst to follow Mercyhurst on He encourages members through personal testimonials. social media. “Even if a stu- of the Mercyhurst commu- He is a firm believer in the dent complains through social nity to document their love power of word of mouth. media, it’s a good thing. It lets of Mercyhurst online with Norris’ job requires him the university know what it pictures, videos and status to be constantly alert about needs to improve on,” Norris updates. trends on campus. He does said. During Norris’ two-and-a- not do it alone, however. He claims that Mercyhurst’s half year term as the director, Norris utilizes the thou- social media monitors make Mercyhurst social media has sands of people who make up an effort to respond to most bloomed into a major market- Mercyhurst’s extended com- questions posted on official Alison Ockasi photo ing tool for the school. munity to retweet, reblog and Mercyhurst pages. While Mercyhurst’s public repost information. “We watch and we listen,” This past Tuesday evening, Oct. 14, Andrew Forsthoefel spoke to students and the public relations campaigns heav- “Seventy-five percent of says Norris. He hopes this in Mercyhurst’s Walker Recital Hall about his journey across America wearing a sign that ily in the Erie, Upper Ohio, what I post has already been academic year will be able to said “Walking to Listen” in 2011. Forsthoefel talked about the hundreds of interviews and and Pennsylvania regions, the posted by a student or some- reach new heights of expan- characters he met along the way during his eleven month trek, and touched on how stoping social media marketing the one else,” says Norris. “Our sion as students take more to speak and listen to them changed his own perspective on life. Forsthoefel’s next step school uses has a more global students are our greatest pictures, send more tweets is working on publishing a book about his unique experience in 2016. reach. advocates.” and share more #lakerpride. “We’ve had students hear Under his leadership, The event was put together by the Campus Involvement Center and the School of Arts and Humanities, along with a Diversity Grant form the Office of Academic Affairs. Andrew’s father Thomas Forsthoefel, Ph.D., a professor of religious studies at Mercyhurst, also Advertisement helped to make event happen.

By Ryan Kushner October 15, 2014 The Merciad Page 5 Arts & Entertainment ‘Cabaret’ to open in Taylor Little Mercyhurst Theatre Program kicks off third season with the classic Bowles. and the popular,“Cabaret.” bers can become a part of the By Naomi Greenstein The main storyline focuses The Theatre Program’s cast as the musical happens all Staff Writer on her relationship with a production of “Cabaret” fea- around them. young American writer, Clif- tures Nam Nguyen as the Single tickets are $15 for Beginning next week, the ford Bradshaw. Emcee, Sarah Creighton as adults, $10 for senior citi- Mercyhurst Theatre Program A sub-plot involves the Sally Bowles, Maxton Hon- zens and students and $5 for will be kicking off its third inevitably doomed romance eychurch as Clifford Brad- youths and Mercyhurst stu- season with their presenta- between German boarding shaw, Jordan Strange as Ernst dents with ID. tion of the classical American house owner Fräulein Schnei- Ludwig, Tonya Lenhart as All performances are gen- musical, “Cabaret.” der and her elderly suitor Herr Fraulein Schneider, Grant eral admission, with the doors This 1966 Broadway pro- Schultz, a Jewish fruit vendor. Clark as Herr Schultz, Michael opening 30 minutes before duction, based on the book Overseeing the action is the Rowe as Max, Bethany Sulecki curtain. “Cabaret” by Christopher Ish- Master of Ceremonies at the as Rosie, Leah Miori as Lulu, Seating is limited, so reserve erwood, became an immedi- Kit Kat Klub. Taylor Bookmiller as Frenchie, your tickets today by calling ate hit with viewers, inspiring The club serves as a met- Sarah Krempasky as Texas, 814-824-2663 or by visiting many other productions in aphor for the increasingly Claudia Rose Cauchi as Fritzie the box office, located in the London and . threatening state of late and Jennie Cross as Helga. lobby of the Mary D’Angelo Eventually, the hit musical Weimar Germany, with the The production is directed Performing Arts Center. was turned into an award-win- songs and dance routines mir- by Brett D. Johnson, Ph.D., Tickets will also be on sale ning movie in 1972, starring roring the ominous events with choreography by Kelly at the theatre beginning one Liza Minelli as Sally Bowles. taking place in the real lives of Jean Graham and musical hour before curtain. The musical “Cabaret” The Kit Kat Klub’s patrons. direction by Ian Gayford. Warning: This production takes place in the year 1931 in “Cabaret” is exciting and Performances are Wednes- contains strong language and Berlin, Germany, just as the filled to the brim with raucous day through Saturday, Oct. 22 adult situations. Nazi regime is begining to rise energy. to 25, at 8 p.m., and Saturday For more information, call to power. Come hear some of the and Sunday, Oct. 25 to 26, at Dr. Brett D. Johnson at 814- It is based on the nightlife most memorable songs in facebook.com/MercyhurstUniversityTheatreProgram photo 2 p.m. in Taylor Little Theatre. 824-2663. at the seedy Kit Kat Klub Broadway and musical theater The Mercyhurst Theatre Program kicks off its third season with During all performances, and revolves around 19-year- history, including “Willkom- the showing of the classic musical “Cabaret” in Taylor Little special seating will be availible old cabaret performer Sally men,” “Maybe This Time,” Theatre, from OCt. 22-26. on-stage, so audience mem- @naomiruth29 ‘Le Nozze’ showing in PAC ‘Untold’ better left unsaid Empire, while battling another overused hero’s journey-style By Megan Pacileo By Jake Lowy war within himself. story. Arts and Entertainment editor Staff Writer The film is mediocre at best. The film gives off a vibe The writers did an impres- like a television show reject; Mercyhurst is proud to once The movie “Dracula: sive job writing the story for the entire film could have again be hosting the MET Untold” is the untold story “Dracula: Untold”, which also acted like the summary of a Opera Live in the Mary D’An- about one of the most feared included a remarkable acting 22-episode season for a televi- gelo Performing Arts Center. monsters that lurked in the job from the cast. sion series. On Oct. 18, the opera “Le night, also known as the ruler Everything else about this The ending brings both Nozze Di Figaro” by Mozart of Transylvania. movie was far below expecta- happiness and raises ques- will be playing at 12:55 p.m. Luke Evans (The Hobbit: tions. tions as Dracula is reunited Meaning the “Marriage of The Desolation of Smaug) The director failed to reveal with the reincarnation of his Figaro,” the opera tells the tale plays Vlad Tepes, the ruler of the true side of Dracula, the departed wife, which opens of a single day of madness in Transylvania. one that people fear the most up doors to the second half the palace of Count Almaviva This story begins where from the monstrous tales. of the curse that the movie near Seville, Spain. the “Dracula’s Origins”movie Overall, it lacks the excite- the director had kept lurking Dr. Bartolo is seeking miac photo ended, with a peace treaty ment and thrill that is needed in the shadows for a “Dracula: revenge against Figaro for ‘Le Nozze Di Figaro’ by Mozart, tells the tale of one very exciting between Transylvania and the to grab the audience and keep Untold”sequel. thwarting his plans to marry day in the palace of Count Almaviva. Ottoman Empire. them from wanting to get out I can review the sequel for Rosina, the new Countess, and Figaro, Susanna and the The opera promises to be Unfortunately, Vlad realizes of their seats and leave the part two within a short few Count Almaviva has degener- Countess conspire to embar- one full of laughter and mis- the Ottomans are now trying theater completely. sentences… the sequel will be ated from a romantic into a rass the Count and expose his chief, bringing to mind Shake- to force him to accept their A large majority of audi- a long- awaited battle between scheming, skirt-chasing bully. scheming. speare’s “Twelfth Night.” costly new demands. ence members will leave dis- Vlad Tepes and the Devil. Having given Figaro a job He responds by trying to The opera will play on Sat- Knowing his kingdom lacks appointed. At the same time, Drac- as head of his staff, the Count compel Figaro to marry a urday, Oct. 18, in the PAC at the army to defend against its Some viewers can argue they ula must fight to prevent his is now persistently trying to woman old enough to be his 12:55 p.m. enemy, Vlad makes a deal with get more excitement from love from death, once again obtain the favors of Figaro’s mother, but as it turns out, she Tickets are $18 for adults the devil to turn himself into watching the trailers than they resulting in Hollywood giving bride-to-be, Susanna. really is his mother. and $7.50 for students and a vampire. do from the movie itself. audiences another cinematic He keeps finding excuses to Through Figaro’s and can be purchased through the “Dracula: Untold” then Instead of Dracula being disappointment just like the delay the wedding of his ser- Susanna’s clever manipula- PAC box office. presents us with Dracula’s portrayed as a horrifying first film. vants, which is arranged for tions, the Count’s love for his 3-day journey of trying to save monster action film, the direc- that very same day. Countess is finally restored. @MeganPacileo his people from the Ottoman tor turned the project into an @TheMerciad stays ‘High’ on the charts All Around Erie priate her lyrics be just as raw lovers alike a chance to meet By Juan Mendez By Megan Pacileo and genuine. the stars, buy horror related Managing editor Arts and Entertainment editor Mix that with her vocals, merchandise and chat with and you have got yourself a film company representatives The beauty of new art- listing of 18 tracks that are Ringling Brothers at the ists is that they always bring pure, unabashed and uncen- Expo, during the weekend of something new to the table, sored. Circus the Fest. whether it is catchy beats, Personal favorites include See feats of gravity-defy- The Fest runs from Oct. interesting lyrics, or a rejuve- “Timebomb,” “Moments,” ing courage and super-human 17 to 19, at the Warner The- nating passion for the art. “,” “This Time strength and as Ringling Bros. atre. Swedish singer Tove Lo is Around” and “Love Ballad.” and Barnum & Bailey pres- Passes run from $15- 20 and no exception. They are by far her most ents Super Circus . Be can be purchased through the While most people rec- original and truly highlight her moved to a place where any- Warner Theatre box office, or ognize her from her single X-factor: her lyrical crudeness thing is possible and prepare call 814-452-4857. “Habits (Stay High),” remixed and ability to break barriers. for an experience that is far by Hippie Sabotage, her Tove Lo does not need to from ordinary and beyond extraordinary. Fall Fest debut , “Queen of the be explicit in order to portray Fall Fest is back at Peek’n Clouds” is definitely going to her angst—the themes of her The show runs from Oct. 23 to 26. Peak. Vendors and entertain- give them something else to music do so well enough. ers fill the festival grounds remember her by. That being said, there is a Tickets can be purchased through the Erie Insurance with crafts, food and the With a combination of couple attempts that fall short. famous pumpkin cannon. beats, amazing lyrics and a While “Like ‘em Young,” Arena box office or call 814- 452-4857. Events include a magic haunting voice, Tove Lo is “The Way That I Am” and show, pumpkin carving con- certainly delivering. rollingstone.com photo “Thousand Miles” are good, test, a race to the top of Fins- Throughout her work, an In her debut album, Tove Lo delivers emotionally and musically. they fail to accomplish the Eerie Horror bury Field, and numerous overwhelming feeling of pas- divided into three sections, all cate harmonies, she is not fol- level of passion the other Film Fest musicians. sion and pain is always pres- depicting the stages of a rela- lowing the path of the music tracks on her album have. With Halloween right Fall Fest runs from Oct. 18 ent, keeping you hooked as tionship—The Sex, The Love industry, but rather setting her For a debut release, Tove Lo around the corner, pre- to 19, at Peek’n Peak. Admis- one song ends and the next and The Pain. own. does extremely well. She may pare to be scared. The Eerie son is free. begins. With heavy synth sounds Her themes are so emo- be new to the game, but she Horror Film Fest and Expo For questions, call 716-355- “” is and a love for simple yet intri- tional that it is only appro- certainly knows how to play. offers horror fans and movie 4141.

Full list of events can be found View upcoming performances: www.merciad.mercyhurst.edu/ on the PAC website www.miac.mercyhurst.edu arts_entertainment Online Page 6 The Merciad October 15, 2014 Opinion Relay forThe views Life expressed successful 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 [email protected]. Apple’s iPhone release The Good... Fall break could not “fall” at a better time than before finals. Lakers were able to get some sleep and lowered expectations go to fun places before midterm week. Some students life complications are all easily phones on the market, and other tech companies can had exams before fall break so they got to enjoy the By Jacob Middlestetter reproducible problems. having ultra-modest depth is a continue to produce increas- break even more. Staff writer Apple should have been dangerous situation. ingly smaller devices, but only able to beta-test the OS on The Plus model is 7.1mm to a certain point. The upcoming Lakers football game at the Big In the years since Apple has countless test devices and thick, as opposed to my new Until there is some cheap, House is hoping to break the Division II attendance been releasing the iPhone, it easily avoid most of these smartphone, the HTC One indestructible metal which record of nearly 62,000. has had a good track record. problems. M8, which is 9.4mm thick. phones can be built out of, Each release has provided an There should be no excuse That thickness for phones phone manufacturers should update or feature which (argu- as to why one of the most which are similar in size for focus on increasing the fea- ably) warranted a new pur- reputable tech firms in the length/height is a godsend, tures and capabilities of the chase. world would be able to over- and it feels remarkable sturdy. their devices in the sizes they The newest iteration, the look such glaring issues. The lack of thickness of the already produce. Not every- The Bad... iPhone 6, and its Plus vari- This is a most unforgivable iPhone is a design idea which thing needs to get bigger, but ant, seemingly continued this offense. Apple has managed is liable to cause future prob- it can still get better. trend. This was true until a to fix this problem since, but lems. number of cases of weak many are rather disappointed. If Apple had decided to Students often come back to professors who actu- construction and software The worst problem of the include an extra millimeter ally expected them to be fully functional after those problems. new iPhone, however, lies in of thickness, either in creat- days of abandon. The problems with the iOS its construction. ing more space for the phone 8 update were not solely in The iPhone 6, and espe- or increasing the thickness Once winter arrives, we are sure that students will be new phones, and things like cially the large Plus model of the metal surrounding the thankful that the heaters are up and running. However, Wi-Fi problems, Bluetooth are remarkably thin. The Plus phone, they both would have now that it is not so cold out, it would be appreciated connectivity issues, perfor- model is a huge 5.5 inches increased structural integrity. @TheMerciad if heaters could be controlled manually in Briggs and mance problems and battery diagonally, one of the largest Sure, Apple and all of the Lewis apartments instead of being automatic.

October’s not only about The Ugly... the pumpkin spice latte Certainly we are in pumpkin season, but last time cause become “passionately about breast cancer. Now, the during Mercyhurst’s home- By MacKenzie Burns we checked, the cheese from the Laker’s cheese fries is pink” while having bake sales main goal is to educate people coming football game. Staff writer not supposed to be orange. and “jean days” to help raise about prevention and early While most women will funds. detection. be diagnosed around the age About one in eight U.S. While most people are This October, the Pink of 40, women can get breast women will be diagnosed with aware of breast cancer, many Ribbon Bagel will be sold at cancer as early as age 15. By breast cancer in their lifetimes, forget to get tested so they can participating Panera Bread the time breast cancer is diag- and this number increases detect the disease in its early bakery-cafes nationwide, nosed in younger women, it The Weird... nearly every year. stages and encourage others including the ones right here is often more advanced and Because of this, October to do the same. in Erie. therefore harder to treat. has been recognized world- More than 8 million Pink This year, one in every 800 wide as Breast Cancer Aware- The Lakers sported Ribbon Bagels have been sold people ages 18-25 will be ness Month. In case you have not noticed, a student has been pink during since 2001, and $1.3 million diagnosed with breast cancer. hanging a hammock between two trees in Garvey Most people have heard of “ was donated to breast cancer That’s the equivalent of five the Susan G Komen foun- Mercyhurst’s charities. Mercyhurst students. Park. He is usually there by noon most days. It seems dation, which has invested homecoming On Oct. 3, the Perry Square like students are finding new and unique ways to feel comfortable around campus. Next time you walk by more than $2.1 billion to football game. fountain “went pink” in sup- breast cancer research since port of breast cancer aware- Garvey Park, do not be surprised to see him lounging its inception in 1982. MacKenzie Burns” ness and will remain pink for in his hammock. In fact, this year Komen is the remainder of the month. actively putting over $300 mil- Breast Cancer Awareness Other institutions around lion into research across the Month has already been suc- Erie have also done the same. country. Those who join the cessful in spreading the word The Lakers sported pink @TheMerciad

Litter negative effects has on The Merciad environment, marine and wildlife Editors Positions @mercyhurst.edu Zach Dorsch Editor-in-Chief editormerciad Jordan Power Writing Coach jpower57 cause are mind bombs: simple such as their family, children, oceans will continue to be By Alison Hosko Nathan Turner News Editor newsmerciad images meant to “explode in etc. filled with litter, to the point Staff writer Ryan Kushner Features Editor featuremerciad people’s minds.” That is why when I see where sea creatures and swim- Carly Contraguerro Sports Editor sportsmerciad Organizations such as Sus- animals being harmed in an ming in them are no longer Megan Pacileo A&E Editor entertainmentmerciad Eighty percent of marine tainable Man and SurfRider advertisement, I’m moved but plausible. Marcela Delgado Opinion Editor opinionmerciad litter begins as litter on land. advertise images of baby tur- do not act. However, if more adver- Mary Barnes Copy Editor copymerciad Most of this litter is plastic, tles that have grown deformed tisements are able to use mind Sami Rapp Photo Editor photomerciad which is not biodegradable. while stuck in plastic rings bombs that overcome the atti- Ethan Johns Web Editor ejohns89 Marine wildlife such as and decomposing seagulls Eighty percent of tude-behavior gap, litter may Will DeFeo Ad Manager admerciad whales, seabirds, and turtles with plastic littler and garbage “marine litter begins eventually disappear from our Bill Welch Adviser wwelch and fish die from choking, inside of their stomachs. as litter on land. oceans. intestinal blockage, and star- These images play over and I realize that I must act even vation due to this litter. over in my head and I feel Alison Hosko.” if I do not feel compelled to Thousands of these animals strongly that it is wrong to do so by advertisements – and also become disfigured and litter, but I do not take any When I see an advertise- so do others my age. Other- seriously injured from being action. ment that shows the fish I’m wise, we will soon be swim- The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper of caught in or cut by this plastic This attitude-behavior gap eating is damaging my stom- ming in litter and injured or Mercyhurst University. It is published throughout the school year, pollution. not only happens with me, but ach from plastic litter the fish dead sea creatures. with the exception of finals weeks. Our office is in Hirt, Room According to Robert Cox’s with many others who feel the has digested, I take action. 120B. Our telephone number is (814) 824-2376. publication, “Environmen- same way about litter. I pick more litter off of the tal Communication and the Studies suggest that people beach and out of the ocean Public Sphere,” advertise- are more likely to take action when I see it. ments for cleaning up beaches, if the message is focused A generation insensitive to The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor. All letters must be the effects of littering and on concerns for their own media and prone to inaction signed and names will be included with the letters. Although we @TheMerciad donating to the cleaning well-being and other people may mean that the world’s will not edit the letters for content, we reserve the right to trim letters to fit. Letters are due Mondays by noon and may not be more than 300 words. Submit letters to box PH 485 or via email at [email protected].

Read more at Write for The Merciad, email merciad.mercyhurst.edu/opinion [email protected] Online October 15, 2014 The Merciad Page 7 Sports

Football earns first seasonSophomore Drew Robin- on Slippery winRock in the Big By Tim Reed son had 14 touches for 46 House Battle. Contributing writer yards and a touchdown, as “I’m in awe, it’s such a big well as catching two passes for venue, something I have never In front of over 2,000 fans 89 yards and another touch- experienced before. It’s going on homecoming weekend, down. One of his completed to be pretty cool and very the Mercyhurst Laker football catches from Boylan was a 78 exciting,” Wild said. team shut out Clarion 28-0. -yard pass. Slippery Rock is a tough The Lakers obtained their Also scoring for the Lakers opponent with a 5-1 record. first win, while also recording was redshirt sophomore Wild believes the Laker their first shutout since 2010 Andrew Miller who com- defense will have to make when they defeated Lock pleted a 16-yard catch for a some adjustments throughout Haven, 41-0. touchdown. This was Miller’s the game. Mercyhurst followed up this first collegiate touchdown. “We’ve got to be able to win the following weekend On the defensive side, the stop the running threat, but with a 45-38 win over rival Lakers held Clarion to just also still look to defend the Gannon. 191 yards of total offense and pass, just get out there and Both defense and offense recorded a season high of play our best,” Wild said. contributed to a great perfor- four sacks. Wild says that the team mance by the Lakers against Redshirt senior Curtis must prepare even more Clarion. Hansford had six tackles and because the noise and nerves Offensively, redshirt junior one sack, while senior line- will be heightened for a crowd quarterback Brendan Boylan backer Garret Wild recorded expected to be between 50 hurstathletics.com photo completed 14 of his 25 pass five tackles, also blocking a and 80 thousand attendees. During Mercyhurst’s homecoming game on Saturday, Oct. 4, the Lakers defeated Clarion Univer- attempts. He also threw for punt in the third quarter. sity in a 28-0 shutout. Contributing to these points scored by the Lakers was sophomore running 241 yards and three touch- Mercyhurst will travel next back Drew Robinson (27) who scored two touchdowns. downs. to Ann Arbor, Mich., to take @TheMerciad Volleyball’s Vitt dominating the court that everyone wants to come By Karah Hollis to the gym and practice every Contributing writer day because of the positive environment. This is especially With mid-season setting in, important during mid-season Kelly Vitt, a junior setter for when everyone becomes tired, the Mercyhurst volleyball team, Vitt said. is just getting started. In the Vitt is experiencing a lot of past 20 games, she has racked personal success on the court a total of 694 assists, 185 digs this season. With 694 assists, and 36 points. she has become a keystone for That’s not all she is doing. the team. This is the first year Her achievements and goals that she does not have to share outside of volleyball are as big the setter position. In her fresh- as her stats on the court. man and sophomore years the Originally from Stow, Ohio, position was split between her Vitt came to Mercyhurst and another player. Being the because of her best friend, only setter, she has been able Lexi Stefanov. Originally, only to build her stats. Stefanov was being recruited Staying on the court the by the MU volleyball team, whole game also allows Vitt to but after watching Vitt play, stay focused. recruiters went for her, too. “Now I never come off the “I don’t know how I would’ve court, so I feel like I’m always Salina Bowe photo survived here if I didn’t come so consumed in the game,” Vitt Junior Kelly Vitt (33) celebrates with teammates after finishing a play during their game against Edinboro. Vitt is proving to be an with her. Making a whole new said.“It’s easier to just know important asset to the team. So far this season, she has 694 assists in the 20 games she has played. friend set—she made it a lot what’s going on. When I come easier,” Vitt said. off the court, sometimes it’s As for being a part of the for athletes to make up for lost make-up classes. The Lakers will play their The team chemistry does hard to stay engaged.” NCAA board, Vitt is working class time due to early dismiss- Volleyball is clearly not just a next game at home against Cal- not stop with just Stefanov Vitt’s passion for volleyball on getting a summer internship als for away games. sport to Vitt; it’s a passion. It ifornia University on Oct. 17. and Vitt. continues off the court. Two in New Zealand which would To make up for this, she is weaved into her whole life The game will start at 7:05 p.m. “I feel like this year out of of her current goals are to allow her to sit-in on board suggests creating a Monday/ from playing it to making it a most years, we all hangout on become a coach and be on the meetings, help construct fund- Wednesday section for athletes part of her career. the court and off the court all NCAA board. raisers and participate in other who miss on recurring days. “Even when things get so the time,” Vitt said. “I love to learn about it and board activities. Missed tests, assignments and physically and mentally tough,” According to Vitt, this has hopefully I can teach that to Vitt already has a few of her information from lectures she said, “…I always end up own ideas. One idea she has would not be an issue because calling my mom saying, ‘I do played a part in the team’s girls on and on, and on after- @TheMerciad success this season. She said ward,” Vitt said. is to create specialized classes they could be covered in the still love it.’” Mercyhurst’s band catches on members, but Reid believes does as well. mainly due to time constraints By Tim Reed that it can continue to grow. “We like to play stuff that and the fact that numbers of Contributing writer “Mercyhurst isn’t big, but are crowd pleasers, songs you members fluctuates more in there are only so many instru- hear at a wedding or on the college. Recently, Mercyhurst’s band ments needed to be played, so radio that people can dance “We just want to perform has been heard throughout we look to have somewhere to,” Reid said. for entertainment; we are campus and performing at between 75 to 80 members,” Along with playing familiar not a competitive band so no home football games. Reid said. songs, band members get the competitions,” Reid said. The band was only started Reid said it is best that crowd involved by singing, While the band does not a couple of years ago, but Mercyhurst plays a variety of yelling chants for the football have its own show or compe- has seen tremendous growth classic rock and older music team and even starting the titions planned this year, they under Robert Reid, who was from the ‘50s, ‘60s, and ‘70s. “wave.” are making the trip to Mich- @MercyhurstFB photo appointed band director in He wants to ensure that not Reid said it is far more chal- igan for the Mercyhurst vs. Mercyhurst’s uniforms for Saturday’s game in Michigan. January 2014. only the band members enjoy lenging running a college band Slippery Rock football game The band consists of 60 these songs but the crowd than a high school one. This is in the Big House. The band is very excited to Big House Battle for the game is the Mercyhurst travel there and will be paired By Carly Contraguerro band, Cheerleading squad and with both Michigan and Slip- Sports editor pery Rock’s bands. many fans. They will be performing Both teams hope to break among a crowd estimated to The Mercyhurst football the record for biggest crowd be somewhere from 50,000- team will travel to Ann Arbor, at a Divison II football game. 80,000. 1,600 of those being Mich., to play in the Big This record is held by Slip- high school students there for House Battle against Slippery pery Rock and Shippensburg Michigan’s band day. Rock on Saturday, Oct. 17, at with an attendance of 61,143 “It’s exciting, but it is going 1:00 p.m. fans. to be a long and busy day. We Saturday marks the 35th Prior to the start of the will be performing at the tail- anniversary of Slippery Rock’s game Mercyhurst will hold gate earlier in the morning, a first visit to the Big House in an alumni and friends tailgate pre-game performance, and 1979. It is also the third game from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 then finish with a halftime Slippery Rock will have played p.m. show,” Reid said. here. For this game, Mercyhurst “It will be cool to perform For decades, Slippery Rock will be wearing different uni- for over 400 alumni, as well as football scores have been forms that are specialized for plenty of family and friends, announced during Michigan this game. for such a big venue.” home games. Because of this These uniforms have the relationship and tradition, “Big House Battle” logo on Mercyhurst has an opportu- the left shoulder of their jer- Bob Reid photo nity to get their first expirience seys. Making an appearance at home football games this year is Mercyhurst’s band led by Robert Reid. playing in Michigan’s stadium. The band will be travelling to Ann Arbor, Michigan on Saturday to play during the Big House game. @TheMerciad Also traveling to Michigan @TheMerciad Page 8 October 15, 2014 The Merciad Laker Living Geek Weekly: Chrome Extensions phone through your Chrome browser. Black Menu: This is by far, my It will also alert you of any missed calls By Zach Dorsch Editor-in-chief favorite Chrome extension. When or notify you that your phone battery activated, a small window will open in is low. (Note standard messaging rates your top right corner of the browser still apply.) Browser extensions, also known allowing you access to a whole fleet as plug ins or add-ons, are computer of Google’s services such as Google Pocket: This little extension allows programs that extend the functional- Translate, Play Music, Gmail and more. you to save articles, webpages, images ity of your browser. These programs This allows for less tab switching if you and videos for you to read or view at can allow your browser to do a wide need to check your Gmail or switch a a later time. This extension also offers variety of things from saving a website song on Play Music. apps for all your mobile devices and URL for you to read later to blocking will sync your accounts so everything unwanted YouTube ads. Though this The Camelizer: This is an online you saved will always be at your finger- article takes a look at browser exten- shopper’s best friend. This program tips. sions for Google Chrome many of will provide you with product price these add-ons are available for your history information in the form of a Pushbullet: This extension will make favorite web browser. graph for sites like , Best Buy sure you never miss another phone Web photo and Newegg. You can also use the call or text message while using your AdBlock Plus: As mentioned before, extension to sign up for email or Twit- computer. Pushbullet will automatically Google Chrome offers a robust number of extensions AdBlock Plus blocks most ads as well ter alerts when the price drops for the show you all of your phone notifica- to help improve the efficiency of your web browser. as the option to filter away buttons that product. tions on your screen. Pushbullet also are linked to malware and social media has the added feature of allowing you buttons. This add-on will also block the Mighty Text: Mighty Text allows you to send pictures, files and links to you ads that play before YouTube videos, to sync with your Android Device to and your friend’s devices. allowing you to get right to your video. send and receive text messages to your @beanhead43

Beauty Talks: Lip Exfoliator By Marcela Delgado Face Forward on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Opinion editor This week’s recipe comes from EcoBeauty by Pinterest so you can get tips and recipes all year long. Lauren Cox: It’s that time of the year again when trees start to change color and you can feel the wind on your face. 1 tsp almond oil You must be wondering how to go about sweater 1 tsp honey weather without worrying about having chapped and 2 tsp brown sugar dry lips. Well, some would suggest buying the most popular To get started, stir ingredients together until brand lip balms sold at convenience stores and super- smooth paste forms. markets. Then gently, massage some of the mixture onto The truth behind those commercial products is that lips. Rinse with warm water. If you have leftovers, they have oxybenzone, a harmful chemical that is also store them in a dry, dark place. Web photo found in sunscreens. For a safer and more effective This Lip Exfoliator will help fight the fall wind. alternative try this recipe that will only take a few Visit Freshfaceforward.org to learn more about minutes of your time, but will be a major benefit. safer products and what to avoid. Also, find Fresh @freshfacefwd Game Zone