Men’s volleyball cancelled

MerciadVol.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’

and may be fi lled out and put in the box. By Ashley Pastor The donations, or the $9 admission fee, include Staff writer food and the drink specials lasting the whole six hours. The 100 Days Celebration for the senior class of Prizes will be given away throughout the night. 2009 will take place at the Corner Stone Bar and Grill, “The reason for $9 is 2009 and last year it was $8 Friday, Feb. 13, from 8 p.m. until 2 a.m. for 2008,” Hancock said. The party takes place annually to fundraise for the The party specials will be different from the stan- senior gift. dard dollar domestics and dollar shots that usually Vicky Fleisner, a student coordinator of the 100 take place on Friday nights only from 10 p.m. until Days Celebration said, “Having this event allows all midnight. seniors to have fun with fellow members of our class Fleisner said the 100 Days Celebration T-shirts will but it also gives our committee a great opportunity to be sold for $10. promote the Senior Gift and get students to donate, “We will be selling them at the Stone on the night which is our main goal.” of the party and on all Wednesday nights from here According to Hilary Hancock, the senior gift chair, on out leading up to the party,” Fleisner said. there will be no cover at the door of the Corner “The T-shirts are in and look awesome,” Hancock Stone. said. Instead, the specials and celebration will take place Students can also pay $9 at the entrance to the So, to the seniors of 2009, embrace these last 100 downstairs. downstairs to be admitted to the party. days of Mercyhurst life with food, drinks and fun at There are three ways to be admitted to the party: Fleisner said students are able to donate at the the Corner Stone Bar and Grill. Donations between $200-299 receives free admission, party or they can contact their school chair represen- Let’s dance until the lights come on and enjoy the donations of $300 (housing deposit) or more receive tatives and fi ll out the forms. company of the people we have spent the last four free admission and a free 100 Days T-shirt. Donation cards can be found in the library lobby, 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 By Alaina Rydzewski Chair: Hilary Hancock 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 Te desco 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 Lauren Weisser and a new theme according to Allyson LaCovey Becky Hohman doing for them. Jovanovic. 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-fi lled pages. Social Science: ment. The Web site features infor- Jackie McLean Liz Gutoskey Arts and “The previous Web site you mation on the Laker Spirit Club Kaitlyn Hoover could visit once and never go and the Student Activities Coun- Stephanie Wilkens Humanities: back again,” MSG public relations cil, both of which operate under Elise Zigrossi representative, senior Mixa Jova- MSG. Ryan McCartney 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 [email protected]. February 4, 2009 NEWS Page 3 Students experience Ireland through education pointed with opportunities to hike and By JoEllen Marsh camp in the Comeragh Mountains. Managing editor “There are lovely forests around like Colligan forest which has the Colligan Once Mercyhurst College students river going through it,” Norris said. arrive for classes in Dungarvan, Ireland in Mercyhurst’s choir made the fi rst offi - spring 2010, they will likely be ready to get cial visit from Erie to Dungarvan, since out and explore the town. they became sister cities. Several of Mercyhurst’s current stu- The mayor of Dungarvan surprised dents who come from Dungarvan have them by inviting them to a town meet- ideas to help future study abroad students ing where they sang the Celtic blessing experience the city. and town offi cials presented them with a “It is a pretty quiet town. There is a plaque. tennis club, a park, St. John’s castle, a Choir Director Rebecca Ryan said, cinema and a variety of restaurants, includ- “The people hugged us, loved us, fed us, Contributed photo ing a McDonald’s if they got homesick,” made us feel very special. We had no idea Dungarvan, the proposed site for the ’Hurst-Ireland campus, is the sister city senior Sara Norris said. “If the students they were planning any of that for us.” of Erie. were interested in golfi ng, there are some Mercyhurst grad student Jim Rudisil, great golf courses in the area. They could 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 go to Clonea beach, which is beautiful and the culture I get so enthralled with. Italy is friendly and welcoming and willing to towards sophomores and juniors. go surfi ng.” great, Poland is an experience, but Ireland go so far out of their way if you need Sophomore Caitlin Toner plans on In addition to many pubs and restau- is a place I would live.” anything,”Hosey said. “They’re lovely signing up as soon as possible. rants, the Creation nightclub is a popular Ryan said, “I think they’ll fi nd a slower people.” “They’re going to have Irish professors weekend hotspot, Norris said. pace of life and joys in the simpler things. According to Hosey, applications to that are going to teach Gaelic. It’s awe- Outside of Dungarvan, students can fi nd They’re sure to like the Guinness.” study abroad in Ireland will probably be some. I’ve wanted to go to Ireland for a new places to shop and explore by taking a Director of International Education available this spring. These applications long time,” Toner said. bus to Cork or Waterford, or traveling 20 Dr. Heidi Hosey went to Ireland last will be handled like current Faculty-Led All students who go to Ireland will take minutes to the beach at Ardmore. month and was met with a great reception Study Abroad Trips (FSAT). Because it a course focusing on Irish culture, geogra- Outdoorsy students will not be disap- 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 dents to take to determine what they would like to gain By Kelly Luoma from the meetings and what activities they would be Staff writer interested in. The students chose if they would be interested in visit- Mercyhurst College pre-law students learned about the ing law schools and in what cities they would want to visit Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and applying to law the schools. They also selected parts of the test taking schools at a Pre-law Society meeting on Tuesday. and application process they would like to have assistance It was the fi rst Pre-law Society meeting in seven or eight with. years at Mercyhurst, according to Director of Career Ser- Schultz said the group plans to spend one of the next vices Bob Hvezda. meetings discussing the LSAT and preparing for it. She The goal is to improve the students’ LSAT scores, Vice invited students who had already taken the test to come President of Academic Affairs Meredith Schultz said. back and share their experiences with students who had A student’s LSAT score and grade point average are not yet taken it. the two most important factors for determining what law Schultz encouraged the students to discuss with her school he or she can get accepted to, Hvezda said. which law school they should attend. Hvezda recommended students taking the LSAT to Plans for a pre-law minor were mentioned at the meet- take preparation classes or practice tests before taking the ing. According to Schultz, the school is in the process of actual test. Taking practice exams will give students “a creating a pre-law minor that will be open to all Mercy- good idea where they stand,” Hvezda said. hurst students. Tyler Stauffer photo Schultz took many practice tests before she took the Senior Alex Beck thought the Pre-law Society meet- Mercyhurst College students interested in law LSAT. “Every single time I took an exam, my score would ings would be helpful, especially for students preparing school got an education, learning about the LSATs go up,” Schultz said. for the LSAT. and applications. Schultz and Hvezda passed out surveys for the stu- Nineteen students attended the meeting. Page 4 NEWS February 4, 2009 Hurst Homes Panel broadens horizons AIRING: By Alaina Rydzewski Wednesday, Feb. 3, at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Staff writer Thursday, Feb. 4, at 12:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. Students, faculty, community members and Friday, Feb. 5, at 4:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. the media met at Mercyhurst College Tuesday night to witness the Panelist Discussion held in the Mercy Heritage Room and sponsored by the Tu ne into channel 19 to watch Mercyhurst Walker School of Business and Offi ce of Academic College’s version of MTV Cribs Affairs. The event had an excellent turn out, with extra chairs brought out for late, comers because every seat was fi lled. Scoot Williams photo The audience was quiet and attentive, with many James Pitonyak and Darrel Vandeveld discuss Mercyhurst shows spectators, old and young, scribbling notes on their former prisoners at Guantanamo Bay. hands or in notebooks. its face in social Although a formal affair, there were many infor- usage of diplomacy during the Bush administration mal moments when one of the panelists would and now during Obama’s administration and what networking make a joke to lighten the mood in the room. is to be done with the prisoners currently residing The discussion, entitled “The Intersection of there. features like a wall and discus- Traditional Notions of Justice and International “We are all in this together. It’s not President By Kelly Luoma sion board, the page includes Prosecutions in the Age of Terrorism,” was based Obama’s problem. It’s not former President Bush’s Staff writer a virtual tour of the Erie and mainly on the prisoners at Guantanamo Bay and problem. It’s everyone’s problem—where should North East campuses, videos, what will be done with them now that President these people go?” Vandeveld asked. Facebook allows students to photos and a slideshow of the Obama has called for the closing of the center, Though 60 of the prisoners have been released stay in touch with friends from school. Information about but also discussed values such as justice in our and declared no threat, there is nowhere for them home and new friends from col- Gamble and links to the Mer- society today. to go—no country will take them in and America lege. Now, students are able to cyhurst Web site are also on The panelists discussing Guantanamo Bay were has the “not-in-my-backyard” syndrome; basically keep in contact with Mercyhurst the Facebook page. Darrel Vandeveld, J.D. (Juris Doctorate), senior rejecting the former prisoners as well. College students, alumni and Morton points out that deputy attorney general for Pennsylvania, who The discussion closed with the issue of terrorism, faculty through a Mercyhurst many people will see the site recently resigned from the project because of ethical with Vandeveld saying: “Terrorism and struggles Facebook page. on Facebook. reasons and asked to be reassigned to Afghanistan against terrorism is not an American problem, it’s a The site opened last week. “With an estimated 150 mil- or Iraq but was sent home; James Pitonyak, J.D., world problem…we need to reclaim the values that Mercyhurst Art Director lion active users around the First Assistant in Offi ce of Public Defender for Erie our country was founded on.” Steve Perkins, Media Relations world, nowhere can you reach County and Kristan Wheaton, J.D., assistant profes- The fl oor was then opened for questions from Manager Debbie Morton and so many in such a short time,” sor of Intelligence Studies at Mercyhurst College. the audience of which there was many. alumnus Jason Drohn devel- Morten said. Meredith Schultz, the moderator in the discussion, ’Hurst sophomore Liz Case said she came in not oped the page. “Besides being a recruit- opened with a question directed at Vandeveld in knowing much about the Guantanamo Bay incident, Mercyhurst College Presi- ing and marketing tool that which she compared the trials at Guantanamo Bay but leaving with a better insight as to what the U.S.’s dent Dr. Thomas J. Gamble gets the college’s message out to the Nuremberg Trials in Nazi Germany and the options “really are for the prisoners kept there.” explained the reasoning for the there in an enormously popu- Tokyo tribunals. Regarding America and the perceptions countries creation of the Facebook page. lar public forum, Facebook The discussion continued on, dealing with topics around the world hold about America ’Hurst junior “There’s no escaping the fact will enable us to keep con- such as the perception that Americans are fi ghting Matt Visco said “it was inspiring…we need to be that students congregate online, nected with our various con- around the world, how the American sense of justice introspective and look at where we were and where and colleges looking to capture stituencies, from prospective was present and not present at Guantanamo Bay, the we need to go.” their interest can’t afford not to students to alumni. Fans not 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 fi rst training At the end of the training, “Further, with our new campus, but they can interact ’Hurst event for the 2009. there was a battalion change of 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 ROTC ducted training at Erie’s U.S. for the Pride of Pennsylvania presence on Facebook seems about 700 fans. Army Reserve Center. Battalion is senior Michael Pic- like a natural complement,” To increase this number, The objective was to familiar- cini and the new command ser- Morton said. go to lakerfacebook.com and ize cadets with various U.S. Army geant major is Gannon Universi- Besides the usual Facebook request to become a fan. update weapons using small hands on ty’s Brian Yoder. February 4, 2009 FEATURES Page 5 Take a break from the usual on spring break

a plane ticket, look at multiple are not fl ying on the weekend By Andrea Conlon online sites in order to fi nd the – when rates tend to increase. Contributing writer lowest fare. Decided to make a last Most travel Web sites have minute spring break decision When looking for places to combinations where you can and still do not have a hotel or go for spring break the decision purchase plane tickets, a hotel plane ticket? can be tricky. and car rentals for a discounted Lastminutetravel.com is a Do you choose a nice ski rate. great site to use. resort where you can hit the This is a good way to decrease The site fi nds the last hotel slopes daily or do you choose spending and to make sure rooms or plane tickets before a beach where you can ride the you’re using every cent to your they are fi lled up and sells them waves or lay in the sun? full advantage. to you at a lower rate. An easy way to save money After reviewing seven or eight Junior Sarah Blackwell said would be to gather a couple of different travel sites, Expedia she is traveling to Washington Contributed photo people and split a cheap hotel seems to offer the cheaper D.C. and Hilton Head, S.C. to New Orleans, above, is a common spring break destination. room. plane tickets, depending on the visit her family. If you’re going to a location destination and the day of the She said she is looking forward not planning on traveling, is to around the area. you can drive to, only take one week you are departing. to spending some quality time experience something new. Invite some people over and vehicle and split the gas money; Sites say that, if you travel with loved ones and also making Check out a museum you’ve have some great themed parties. this decreases the cost per from Tuesday to the following some great memories. never had time to go to before, Some ideas include beach person. Tuesday you are more likely to Another great way to have or fi nd out if there are any new parties, a tropical Luau, Mardi If your destination requires get a better deal, because you fun over break, even if you are restaurants or coffee shops Gras, or a casino night.

Broccoli & Cheddar Bites

Lunch $ 5 Lunch $ 5 Dinner $ 5.50 Dinner $ 5.50 11:30 a.m. -8 p.m. 6” Sub $4 Combo $5 12” Sub $5.75 Combo $6.75 M Southwest Burger Lunch $ 5 T Breakfast Sandwich Dinner $ 5.50 W Sizzle Salad Wrap Combo- Veggie $5 TH Taco Salad Other Wraps $4 F Goulash Make any sub a wrap for S Laker Burger no extra charge!

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 Page 6 FEATURES February 4, 2009 ‘Mamma Mia Mayhem’ at Egan Cafeteria

her kids and their respective spouses or By Alexandra Miniri signifi cant others. Staff writer Naturally, at such a poignant occasion, emotions were high as everyone realized The Student Activities Council hosted they had to go without Mamma. the annual Murder Mystery Dinner But Mamma Stromboli’s will seems Saturday, Jan. 31. a little odd and the siblings start to Junior Cerissa Lynch and senior question some mysterious actions. After Heather Schwager, who organized the two deaths, the students at the event were event, chose an Italian theme, “Mamma given the chance to solve the mystery. Mia Mayhem: Blood Relatives,” which is There was a conspiracy by a priest and what was offered by the company B&G one of the Stromboli children to change Murder Mystery. the will of Mamma Stromboli, which Tickets costing $10 got students a night resulted in another death and more of entertainment, a dinner of chicken or confusion among the siblings. eggplant parmesan and dessert. Maria Rambuski, Hillary Tietsworth Students in semi-formal attire gathered and Stephen Shutta were the intuitive in Egan cafeteria after dinner hours, three winners who solved the mystery Contributed photo decorated for the occasion. and walked away with great gift baskets. “Mamma Mia Mayhem: Blood Relatives” was this year’s Murder Mys- The Stromboli Family gathered at Five other door prizes were given out. tery Dinner theme. a memorial service to bid farewell to Junior Brian Johns who attended the Mamma Filomena who three weeks ago event said, “The Murder Mystery Dinner is a great change of pace from a regular Sophomore Meghan Warner said, “The at the ripe old age of 85 fi nally went to 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 that big pizza parlor in the sky. interact with the actors and have a chance out with my friends, and I can’t wait until decorated like pizzas...which were very On hand for this solemn occasion were to ‘solve’ a mystery is very stimulating. It next year.” creative and went well with the theme.” ’Hurst’s Blue and Green cheer for the Black and Gold time and are always in the hunt to win the By Anneliese Browning Super Bowl helps keep even the most fair Contributing writer weather fans loyal.” Freshman Emily Alden claims to be a The Super Bowl has come and gone neutral fan, but said, “I’ve always heard yet again the steel curtain holds strong. that you can fi nd a Pittsburgh Steelers The Black and Gold now have the fan anywhere.” most Super Bowl rings than any other Pittsburgh Steeler fans support their football team; six big ones 1975, 1976, team no matter how the score turns out. 1979, 1980, 2006 and now 2009. Freshman Jessica Clemente, a Reading, All are American traits, all are Pa., native living in Philadelphia Eagles Pittsburgh traits and all are true diehard territory said, “With the infamous football player traits. Terrible Towel, the Hines Ward’s smile Pittsburgh is a city rich in tradition, one and Polamolu’s hair, the Steelers are a supporting their sports teams through very solid team that gets the job done.” thick and thin. Jeremiah Wise, a junior from Chicago, Pittsburgh Steeler fans are not likes the Steelers because of “their long just found in Pittsburgh; they are tradition of winning Super Bowls.” everywhere. Super Bowl Sunday affected every place

A world renowned team with more at Mercyhurst, even campus ministry. Contributed photo fans than any other team in the NFL. The usual 8:30 p.m. Mass was moved Freshmen at Egan Hall gathered to watch and support the Steelers on SuperBowl Junior Jordan Armstrong from to 4:30 p.m., and the 11 a.m. Mass was Sunday. Muncie, Ind. said, “I do believe they fi lled with Steelers’ jerseys. have the biggest fan base because they Freshman Jessica Clemente and Junior In the congregation, students could before their team started playing. have the most loyal fans. They have been Chelsea Crawford served as Eucharistic be seen supporting Steelers’ Polamolu, From the classroom to the dining hall around since the beginning of the NFL Ministers while wearing jerseys for Ben Parker, Holmes, Harrison and many and into church, Mercyhurst’s Blue and and the fact that they win most of the 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 extemporaneous concerts alike. By Alaina Rydzewski “We have sung in restaurants, town Staff writer squares and even in airplanes before,” Ryan said. This year’s 7th annual tour choir trip Senior Kayla Nash, who went on led by Rebecca Ryan, of the Mercyhurst two previous trips with Ryan, said College D’Angelo School of Music, will she is excited for “the adventure and be to Barcelona, Spain. travelling…we get to meet so many new Twelve students are chosen out of the and different people…it’s such a unique Concert Choir conducted by Ryan to go and amazing experience.” on the trip, which lasts seven days. The group will stay at the Rombla, an They leave the day after graduation. open air market along the street, and will Ryan said that she and her students are see Parque Guell Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia “basically ambassadors of good will…we among other architectural works. sing and we connect on a personal level Senior Kara Stadelman, producer with other musicians. We experience of this year’s musical, said she had “a the culture of other countries and share complete blast” on the two trips she experiences where possible and learn as went on. During her freshman and Tyler Stauffer photo much as we can about the history of the sophomore year’s she travelled to Poland Ryan and 12 choir students will be going on a seven day trip to Barcelona. culture not only in terms of music, but and Ireland. countries are like.” also the food, language and geography “It was so much fun, especially with know each other,” she said. In previous years, Ryan and her of the country.” other members of the choir…in class Stadelman said she hopes to “explore a students have gone to Honduras, Ireland While in Barcelona, the students will we don’t really get a chance to talk to different place and see a new culture and and Poland. sing in special venues — formal and each other, but on the trips we can get to to gain an appreciation of what other Check, please: Erie restaurant review Under the Clock’s food underheated I had the house dressing, My waiter, Joe, offered to have The menu for the restaurant By Gretchen Beth Yori which was strawberry vinaigrette; the kitchen reheat it for me. had a large assortment of Staff writer it was a dressing I felt did not I allowed him to take my choices ranging from streaks, to complement the salad. plate, and when he returned my burgers, to seafood, however, Under the Clock may have It took more an hour for my meal was luke warm, and I was a tad pricey for the average the right atmosphere, but date and I’s entrées’ to arrive. frustrated. college student. the food comes without my This would have been I ate my luke warm salmon The desert menu had multiple recommendation. understandable if the restaurant and cold rice, and had a glass of choices, including house Unfortunately, for as beautiful had been busy, but the restaurant the house Merlot priced at $5 a specialty desserts made by the of a restaurant Under the Clock did not appear extremely busy; glass. manager. is, set in the Boston Store of we did not have to wait to be I feel if my food had been Unfortunately, I was not downtown Erie, the food lacked seated. served at the right temperature impressed with the food, the zing. I decided to have the the meal would have been atmosphere was relaxed and the Two entrees, an appetizer and Raspberry Salmon, priced at delicious. servers were pleasant. one dessert to share for two $16.95, which came with a side However, the dessert was For the price of the food I totaled about $55, a tad over of rice and spinach. perfecto! I shared a piece of the felt the entrée should have been priced for the quality of the After waiting more than 60 Crème Raspberry Waltz with served sooner and warmer. meal. minutes to get my actual meal, my date. I can say the serving sizes I started my meal with Mussel I was extremely disappointed We agreed the dessert was were descent. Provencal, priced at $9.95, when it was served ice cold and not overly-sweet, had a smooth However, I’d say if which were appetizing. no compensation was made to texture and the presentation was Mercyhurst College students are However, the side salad that my bill for this inconvenience. beautiful. heading downtown, I would not Gretchen Beth Yori came with each entrée was After about 10 minutes, my The slice had a raspberry recommend Under the Clock, Under the Clock is located in nothing special, some lettuce, waiter came over to see how my syrup drizzled over the entire since the price of the meal did the Boston Store of down- tomato, shredded carrots and meal was, and I explained it was plate. Dessert was priced at not match the quality of it. town Erie. choice of dressing. ice cold. $4.75 a slice. 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 Taddiken jumps through search for peace, among many others. a hoop created by senior Similarly diverse musical selections were made by Justin Hogan and sophomore the choreographers, with featured music including Sarah Hricko. Below, junior artists such as Apocalyptica, John Legend, Emma Trevor Sones, Taddiken and Snaplin, Incubus, Placebo and Vitamin String Quar- Hogan toss Hricko in the air. tet, as well as a section of John Williams’ score from “Schindler’s List.” particular show is the display of One piece includes dance performed to spoken different styles of dance and the poetry written by senior Hazel Jennings. arrangement of pieces for each Junior Trevor Sones, a Choreography III student, performance,” sophomore Nicole said of the “Raw Edges” experience, “I personally Lyons said. love Raw Edges, because it gives me the chance to “It’s very enlightening for me as work on my own personal dance style and choreog- a choreographer to see and watch raphy.” my peers develop their own pieces “It is a great opportunity as a student to experiment through their styles,” Lyons, a with different choreographic processes and work with Choreography II student, said. all the theatrics, such as lighting for instance,” Sones fi lling to be allowed to create. This year has been espe- Tickets for “Raw Edges” are said. cially exciting for me as a choreographer, because I have only $1 for Mercyhurst College students and $7.50 for “[Raw Edges is] a great experience that has really been collaborating with a fellow artist. Collaborating President’s Cardholders. For regular admission, tickets helped me discover myself as a dancer,” sophomore with a poet has allowed me to create my own message are $15 for adults, $12.50 for seniors and students and Brieänna Hynish said. with dance and have it further portrayed with spoken $5 for youths under 15 years of age. Choreography III student Caitlin Roberts said, “I word.” Tickets may be purchased at the PAC box offi ce in thoroughly enjoy the choreographic process. It is so ful- “One of the things that I fi nd truly unique about this advance or at the door, or by calling (814) 824-3000. February 4, 2009 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Page 9 The Fray releases self-titled sophomore album

fi nd happiness in By Casey Harvilla unexpected situa- Contributing writer tions. The Fray has When The Fray formed in come very far 2002, I doubt the Denver- since playing based quartet thought they garages and par- would be so successful. ties in Denver. The Fray released two inde- Over the course pendent EPs before recording of four short their debut album, “How to years, the band Save a Life.” has managed The album, released in 2005, to create music featured the radio-friendly hit appealing to sev- “Over My Head (Cable Car),” eral generations which was inspired by lead thefray.net while staying true singer Isaac Slade’s relation- to themselves. Band members Isaac Slade, Dave ship with his brother, also a If they continue Welsh, Joe King and Ben Wysocki former member of the band. contributed to The Fray’s on their current The album’s second single self-titled sophomore album, path, they will and title track gained familiar- released Tuesday. continue to create ity after being used in televi- and inspire for sion spots for ABC’s “Grey’s years and years to Anatomy.” It is also safe to say that “Syndicate.” A strong opener, on the album, “Happiness,” is come – and I look The album was certifi ed although these comparisons “Syndicate” holds a message a lighthearted, yet full-bodied forward to hear- double platinum and reached are sure to continue, The Fray of not giving up because, as song simply about trying to ing it. No. 1 on charts in Ireland, is defi nitely making their own the lyrics state, “…we haven’t Bulgaria, Canada and Spain. mark in the music industry. lost it all yet.” The band’s poppy, yet soul- The Fray’s self-titled sopho- Another track carrying a ful, piano rock is appealing to more album was released on similar message is “Never Say all generations. Tuesday and showcases 10 Never,” an anthemic ballad The Fray has been com- solid, yet varying songs. with a chorus referencing the DOWNLOAD pared to U2, Better Than Ezra, The album starts on a very importance of people falling Counting Crows and Coldplay. hopeful note with the track apart and coming together. The fi rst single off the new The Fray “You Found Me” album is “You Found Me.” The Fray’s “You Found Me” continues their Marketed in the same gen- trend of radio-friendly hits heading back to Off-Campus Student eral way as “How to Save a “Over My Head (Cable Car),” “How to Save Life,” the song was featured a Life” and “She Is.” Their entire self-titled Housing in television spots for ABC’s album is worth a listen. “Lost.” Several 3-4 bedroom houses, The Fray could not have Eric Hutchinson “Rock and Roll” All within 10 minutes of campus chosen a better track as a A great song of piano rock, check out single release. Eric Hutchinson’s ode to regret-free Appliances Included With its poetic lyrics and guys and girls getting together after a melody, “You Found Me” def- carefree weekend at the bars. It’s in the initely draws attention to the same vein as much of Billy Joel and Ben Folds. band and lets listeners know CLEAN! The Fray’s music has matured. Fionn Regan ”Be Good or Be Gone” One of the darker tracks is Regan’s album, “The End of History,” Available starting in June called “Ungodly Hour.” has a number of great, folksy, Featuring lead vocals by meandering songs that stick with guitarist Joe King, “Ungodly listeners. Other favorites include “Put Call 814-397-9609 Hour” has an eerie, yet beauti- a Penny in the Slot,” “Bunker or Basement,” “Snowy ful sound. Atlas Mountains” and the title song. for information or showing. In contrast, the fi nal track Page 10 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT February 4, 2009 ‘Dear Zachary’ to play as part of Guelcher Film Series

By Mason Lorek Staff writer

When I fi nished 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 fi lms I’ve ever seen. This fi lm is about director Kurt Kuenne’s quest to memo- rialize his friend who was mur- pac.mercyhurst.edu dered by his friend’s wife. Kurt Kuenne’s documentary ‘Dear Zachary’ will play at the To make the situation even Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center Wednesday, Feb. 11, at worse, at the time his wife was 2:15 and 8 p.m as part of the Guelcher Film Series. pregnant with Kuenne’s friend’s unborn son, to whom the docu- back into my room to stare at tive or otherwise voice my dis- mentary became directed. the blank Microsoft Word docu- pleasure, I generally avoid con- I turned off my television ment opened on my computer, frontation and keep my thoughts knowing I had to somehow unable to write anything. to myself. write an article on what I had I sent a few text messages and However, at times where I just seen, but I didn’t have the made some phone calls trying to feel the need to express posi- words. talk to people about something, tive emotions such as gratitude, I felt multiple emotions at the anything, I could turn into an affection or love, I nearly always same time I didn’t know where article. I opened up iTunes and spill my guts. to start or how to focus my turned on a Counting Crows Most times it comes out awk- energy. song I’ve been listening to lately, ward or makes someone feel I debated not writing this called “Anna Begins.” uncomfortable, but to me there’s article at all, knowing even if I As I listened to Adam Duritz nothing embarrassing about cinematical.com could sort out my thoughts, I sing about falling in love with a expressing emotions. I planted bling is far from organized and tell the important people in my could not do justice to the life- girl and trying to push his feel- the seed and maybe it will grow, doesn’t make much sense. life what they mean to me, and I time of memories, experiences ings away, I knew what I wanted but even if it doesn’t, I’ve made I hope you choose to watch encourage you to do the same. and ultimate devastation that to say. an attempt. “Dear Zachary” next week, “Dear Zachary” will play Kurt Kuenne managed to con- I tend to walk a fi ne line At the very least it’s a compli- and I hope you are able to have Wednesday, Feb. 11, at 2:15 and dense into a 95-minute docu- between biting my tongue and ment, and if it makes the person some appreciation of where I’m 8 p.m. mentary. telling people how I feel. In smile, even if only for a second, coming from. Tickets are free for Mercy- I walked around the house a situation where I would be it is absolutely worth saying. Because of watching the fi lm, hurst students (one ticket per for a while, occasionally coming tempted to say something nega- I know this half page of ram- I’m taking this opportunity to student ID). Black History Month celebrated in Cummings Gallery

planned in accordance with the Feb. 17, in the Cummings Gal- various effects of the racist Jim dom Songs,” gospel music sung By Alaina Rydzewski college’s yearlong celebration. lery and is open to the public Crow legacy such as the violence by various choirs and soloists. Staff writer These will be the “Hateful through Wednesday, Feb. 25. shown toward African Ameri- Students, faculty and members Things” exhibit in the Cum- The Cummings Gallery is cans at the time, as well as the of the Erie community are all Mercyhurst College has been mings Gallery and the Choral open Tuesday through Sunday, fi ght for civil rights. invited to attend the free events. the host of numerous events on Performance “Freedom Songs” from 2 p.m. until 5 p.m., and There are explanations by Additional questions can be campus throughout the school by the Martin Luther King, Jr. Thursday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. each of the works in the hopes directed to history professor year for the “Beyond the Dream” Gospel Choir, the Mercyhurst The Gallery is free to attend. that the spectator will no longer Dr. John Olszowka at extension Martin Luther King Jr. yearlong College Concert Choir, Carpe It contains 39 items, artifacts overlook racial stereotypes in 3027 or jolszowka@mercyhurst. celebration. Diem Women and community and images from the Jim Crow modern-day society. edu or English professor Dr. Since February is nationally soloists in the Mary D’Angelo Museum of Racist Memorabilia After viewing the premiere on Christina Riley-Brown at exten- recognized as Black History Performing Arts Center. at Ferris State University. the 17th, viewers can then pro- sion 2350 or crileybrown@mer- Month, there will be two events The art exhibit opens Tuesday, All of the pieces illustrate ceed to the PAC to hear “Free- cyhurst.edu. February 4, 2009 OPINION Page 11 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 [email protected].

Defending Earth-friendly practices Where Really doing Green Team leadership fi res back at Hallam readers enough? In response to Seth Hallam’s this commitment. one which we have explored for “How green is going green” Mr. Hallam is correct to point years. The problem is space. share their By Seth opinion piece last week, we out personal behavior is essen- We invite you to participate thoughts. Hallam want to thank Mr. Hallam for tial. Turning off light switches in Green Team discussions of Staff writer his interest in these issues and (aided, we hope, by the new this issue. for noting perceived weaknesses “LIGHTS OUT” decals) and As for Recyclemania, although Once again, we thank you Thank you for your response. in Mercyhurst’s green initiatives. computers when not in use is current economic conditions in for your input and invite you I’m not disputing whether However, Mr. Hallam’s sug- an essential and simple act of the country have driven down to become part of Green Team steps are being taken to go green. gestion that Mercyhurst Col- personal responsibility. They are the value of recyclable materials discussions about these vital What I’m disputing is if the lege’s commitment to going every bit as important as smart in the market, the answer to that issues affecting our future. steps taken are serious enough, green is less than genuine could public policies in advancing the macroeconomic problem is not Sincerely, and how much benefi t they not be further from the truth. goals of national energy inde- to discontinue recycling. The Margaux Valenti have for the environment. Also, I With four buildings heated and pendence and solving the cli- recycling market will rebound. Zachary Pekor already do help out, by paying the cooled by geothermal energy, mate crisis. The ecological fact remains, Dr. Chris J. Magoc “Green Fee” of $5 every term. solar panels helping to power Mr. Hallam should know the manufacturing products from the maintenance building and college uses a more environ- recycled materials invariably uses 30 percent of our electricity mentally benign de-icing mate- less energy, less water and fewer coming from wind turbines, rial than standard road salt. natural resources than making this college is among the lead- Going without plowing and salt things from virgin resources. ing institutions of higher educa- entirely, however, is simply not Deeply embedded in the tion in the state of Pennsylvania a practical option. In keeping Mercyhurst mission, our moral when it comes to investing in with our campus master land- and ethical obligation is to be renewable energy. scape plan, our landscape crew good stewards of our resources. If you don’t want it printed . . . don’t let it happen. Other initiatives such as ret- has begun to institute a more Recycling is a vital element of Editors Positions @mercyhurst.edu rofi tting student apartments, environmentally sensitive regi- fulfi lling that responsibility. Casey Greene Editor-in-Chief editormerciad installing compact fl uorescents men. The idea of composting Using recycling containers for JoEllen Marsh Managing Editor mgeditormerciad and motion sensors are all our yard and vegetable kitchen trash is clearly unacceptable and Amanda Valauri News Editor newsmerciad aimed at further strengthening waste is an excellent proposition, a violation of college policy. Javi Cubillos Features Editor featuremerciad Heather Donovan Opinion Editor opinionmerciad Brad Moehringer Sports Editor sportsmerciad Keeping phone etiquette intact Sam Sellinger Sports Editor sportsmerciad phone. are calling beforehand? Kyle King A&E entertainmentmerciad By Rhonda I would have to agree—my When it comes to my cell Scoot Williams Photographer photomerciad Marable two younger brothers’ friends phone I’m most likely the only Tyler Stauffer Photographer photomerciad Staff writer call the house and I deal, fi rst one answering it. So why call me Caitlin Bly Advertising Manager admerciad hand, with their versions of and ask “Who’s this?” Gretchen Yori Copy Editor copymerciad Does anyone miss the days “polite phone etiquette.” I don’t Sometimes I feel like I’m part Ashley Pastor General Assignment apasto22 when people, especially teenag- expect too much—an introduc- of a bad knock, knock joke. Bill Welch Adviser wwelch ers, had manners when using the tion and a question, that’s all. Perhaps you don’t know who Brian Sheridan Adviser bsheridan phone? When someone called, If you’re a stranger calling you’re calling when you see introduced themselves, and then my house, “Hey, this is James, you have a missed call; it hap- The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst politely asked for someone. let me speak to Marc,” doesn’t pens sometimes. So when you College. It is published throughout the school year, with the exception of I’m only asking because it follow the formula. You have call this number and someone finals weeks. Our office is in Hirt, Room 120B. Our telephone number is (814) seems to me more teenag- the introduction down, but then answers I think it’s friendlier to 824-2376. ers, and some adults, don’t you follow it with a statement say “Hi/Hello, this is Rhonda, know how to talk to people on rather than a question. And I received a missed call from the phone. I’m sorry, but you don’t call my this number, did someone try to The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor. All letters must be signed In my Asian Cultures class house demanding anything from contact me?” and names will be included with the letters. Although we will not edit the earlier this week, we had a dis- me unless you’re a government It may not be the coolest thing letters for content, we reserve the right to trim letters to fit. Letters cussion about how some people offi cial or an older relative. you’ve ever said, but sometimes are due Mondays. by noon and may not be more than 300 words. Submit don’t know how to talk to Also, is it too much to expect cool has to take a back seat to letters to box PH 485 or via e-mail at [email protected]. anyone but their friends on the for someone to know who they manners. Page 12 OPINION SeptemberFebruary 3, 4,2008 2009 Free election in Iraq goes unrecognized the globe cover numerous to Hisham Melhem, a Saudi- abducted from the American By Devin Ruic Middle Eastern confl icts, blam- owned, Dubai-based, Al-Ara- Embassy in Iran and held hos- Contributing writer ing Israelis for defending them- biya, satellite network. tage for 444 days, until former selves against terrorist attacks, If you haven’t caught on President Ronald Reagan came Last week something amaz- accusing Iraqi military person- by the tone of this article, the into offi ce. ing happened– and yet almost nel of impropriety and con- newly-inaugurated President of A few years later, still within no one noticed it. Last week, victing Americans for alleged the United States decided to the 20-30 year time line Presi- something historic happened, crimes against humanity, with- ignore the historic and peaceful dent Obama provided, 241 Bleed that black and gold and 15-day President Barack out proof. elections in Iraq to speak about American service people died in Steeler fans. The Steeler Obama ignored it. Last week, The news could have car- restoring the “respect and part- a terrorist bombing of their bar- Country held strong for millions of free individuals lined ried the happier story of a calm nership that America had with racks in Beirut, Lebanon. their sixth Super Bowl win. up and dipped their fi ngers in election, where 200 women ran the Muslim world as recently as The days following, rescu- As for the local angle: The purple ink, signifying they voted for political positions in the 20 or 30 years ago.” ers were repeatedly attacked by only thing more annoying in a free and fair provincial elec- 450 seats of 14 Iraqi provincial It’s 2009… let me do the sniper fi re– obviously the epit- than a Steeler fan is an any- tion for one of the fi rst times in assemblies. Fifteen-day Presi- math — 2009 subtract 30… ome of “respect and partner- thing-but-Steeler fan. Mesopotamian history… and it dent Barack Obama could have would be 1979. The year Ayatol- ship.” Welcome back, President happened in Iraq. mentioned these elections in his lah Khomeini returned to Iran Jimmy Carter. The daily coverage we hear very fi rst Presidential television and fi rst called us the “Great Did the peanut farm from news organizations across interview, he gave last Monday Satan.” Also, 53 Americans were get boring? Speeding up your Cultural short-comings sluggish stride felt around the world ing-wet boots have had it. of the issues and write a letter to The Green Team has I’m happy you’ve found a By Jerrod Obama about the problem. taken some hits lately, and By Jordan group of walking buddies, Markle After nearly coming to tears their full-page, full-color Zangaro having a wonderful time and Staff writer when being told to write to Staff writer ads plastered around cam- this repetitive, gloomy weather a corporate puppet pleading pus aren’t helping their hasn’t got you down. I did not choose the title to he recognize the problems he reputation as a landscape- The snow is blinding, literally But, is it necessary to sing last week’s article. I do not think is causing and dismantle the friendly organization. burning your face. All you want carols of joy while blocking the it is necessary to beg with Intel system that gave him his power, to do is be inside under every entire sidewalk? to see things my way. I just sat in silence. blanket you can get your frost- Less-happy people are just Our culture is destroying the I believe, no matter how bitten hands on. But you can’t. trying to survive, and we don’t delicate web of relationships we much love you show an abu- There is an enormous force have a cheerful note to offer weave with nature, our neigh- sive person, the already alien- stopping you, slowing every step your charade. These pessimis- bors, ourselves and our myths. ating and violent facets of this as the fury inside you grows and tic pieces aren’t my favorite to This week, I attended the destructive relationship will not you lose feeling in all 10 toes. write. It just seemed unavoid- Burmese refugee talk where two be resolved. Eight to 12 people are mosey- able since it took me 25 minutes men spoke about fl eeing their We need to stop putting false ing their way through our Erie to get home from the gym the country. I asked how to resolve hope, tangible efforts and real wonderland. They clearly want other night. A gang of cheer- the issue of displaced refugees time into creating beliefs of a to soak in the beautiful scenery ful carolers wouldn’t get out of that are raped by our cultures second coming, the system or Punxsutawney Phil saw of brown slush and icicles as my way. addiction to corporations such corporate pawns will resurrect his shadow last Saturday, tall as Old Main. Not to men- My too-close-to-be-anything- as Chevron, Toyota and Ameri- equal rights and justice. locking in this dreadful tion, who doesn’t want to slowly but-a-stalker walk or my obnox- can tourism that feels entitled to We should harness these weather for the next six walk through a blizzard, fl akes ious exhale of annoyance did exploit our Burmese neighbors’ misplaced energies to hold weeks. Hopefully he didn’t drenching your hair, forcing you not even cause a stutter in their land base and humanity? those responsible for crimes predict a lasting dark cloud to look like a wet dog? sluggish stride. Now after our unsustainable against the planet and humanity over the economy as well. Before I go any further I When I ran track in high school and violent culture supported accountable. Ecocide and geno- should address the speed at we would yell, “TRACK!” when the evil military junta forcing cide do not get solved by relying which I normally walk. I am we were coming up behind these men to fl ee their families on some mysterious ‘other’ of Please e-mail any suggestions to usually in my own world and someone so they would move. and homes, they came to Erie, endless love and peace, nor by [email protected]. walking very slow. But, I am just Maybe Mercyhurst should another place dependent upon passively submitting to or suck- The GB&U is a compilation of one, small person. I barely take come up with the same kind on the same destructive system. ling the benefi ts of the system student opinions. up any room on the icy sidewalk. of system. An Erie Institute representa- responsible for the very atroci- My salt-covered jeans and soak- Any suggestions? tive told me to raise awareness ties we claim to oppose. 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 Lakers fall to No.3 Vulcans 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.

Jim Cooper photo Grife makes another preseason watch list Junior Amy Achesinski scored nine points in the Lakers 56-45 win over Clarion on Jan. 28 at Junior starting pitcher Steve Grife was recently named to another the Mercyhurst Athletic Center. preseason Players to Watch list. Baseball America named Grife a Junior Kelsey Gordon scored to give Gannon a run for Player to Watch for the upcoming season and was named the No. By Sarah Powell and freshman Megan Hoff- its money. 3 prospect in Division II for the 2009 Draft. Staff writer man netted a career-high nine “The Gannon-Mercyhurst points. rivalry always promises a great Despite the outcome of Sat- The Lakers continue their game. I am excited to get out urday’s game against the No. 3 PSAC West play today as they there to prove what Mercyhurst Vulcans of California University take on long time rivals, the is all about and show what we of Pennsylvania, the Lakers put Golden Knights of Gannon can accomplish as a team,” up a good fi ght for 40 minutes University at 5:30 p.m. Gannon Artise said. However, Cal (Pa.) came out is currently 16-3 overall and 3-2 “Beating Gannon is exciting with an offensive attack in the in PSAC West play. in itself, but what the women’s second half putting the game Junior Stevie Spetoskey is basketball team has to gain by Jess Jones-Women’s Hockey out of reach, building their lead confi dent in her team. beating Gannon this year is the Jones, a forward from Picton, O.N. scored three goals in the Lakers to 36 points. The Vulcans went “The Cal game gave us the most exciting part,” Artise said. weekend sweep over CHA rival Wayne State. Jones scored one goal on to defeat Mercyhurst College confi dence that we can com- Tickets for the game were on Friday night and followed up with two goals Saturday after- 91-64. pete against good teams,” Spe- pre-sale, therefore no tickets will noon. Despite the outcome, several toskey said. “We are using the be sold at the door. Any tickets Lakers ended the game with per- Cal game as motivation to beat left are available for purchase Nnamdi Nnadili-Men’s Basketball sonal bests. Sophomore Saman- Gannon. It’s going to be a good today from 9 a.m. until noon. Nnadili, a junior from Washington D.C., scored a team high 15 tha Loadman had six assists and game.” Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and it points in the Lakers 66-64 win over California (Pa.) on Jan. 31 and three steals, both career highs. Junior Jackie Artise is ready is expected to be a sellout. hit the go-ahead three pointer with 55 seconds left to seal the win. Page 14 SPORTS February 4, 2009 Lakers ground No.19 Air Force in overtime

Then at 16:06, sophomore deadlock at the end of the By Nick Glasier Steve Cameron hit his 16th period. Staff writter lamplighter of the season. The Lakers opened the third Then junior Neil Graham period with a goal by sophomore The No. 19 Air Force Falcons struck again at 17:29 on assists Nick Vadenbeld at 11:48. rolled into town looking to from Meternach and Ginand, Then the Falcons responded continue their climb up the giving the Lakers the lead 4-3 with a shorthanded goal by rankings. Still, they did not going into the third period. Brent Olson at 15:31 to close expect their wings to be clipped The third period was the third period with a 2-2 tie in a stunning 3-2 overtime on a highlighted by Zapolski making and throw the game to overtime breakaway goal by sophomore 16 of his 40 saves for the game. yet again. Mike Gurtler on Saturday. However, the Falcons would Overtime started off with the Senior defenseman Kirk score with a 6-5 advantage Falcons testing Zapolski with Meternach said, “This was one at 19:05, sending the game to fi ve unanswered shots, but the of the biggest weekends we an uneventful overtime ending Zapolski would not yield. had all year, and we knew that with a 4-4 tie. Then sophomore Mike so we prepared to play our best Saturday, the Lakers started Gurtler poked away a pass from hockey.” off the game with sophomore two defensemen and beat Air Despite being outshot 45 Ryan Raven scoring on a Force goalie Andrew Vokening to 25 and 44 to 24, the Lakers defl ection goal at 6:43. on a one on one goal low and managed to fi nish the weekend Tyler Stauffer photo The Lakers outshot the to the left with 1:51 remaining with a stunning overtime Senior Matt Pierce (21) wins posession of the puck at the Falcons 10-9 in the fi rst period; to shock the Falcons with victory and a 4-4 tie on Friday men’s hockey game against Air Force on Friday, Jan. 30. this would be the only period a 3-2 Mercyhurst College night playing some of their best said of Zapolski, The Lakers stormed back the Lakers would outshoot the overtime victory. hockey this year. After the series, the Lakers with a renewed energy in the Falcons all weekend. The Lakers will look to extend Sophomore goalie Ryan improved to 12-12-3 and 10-6-3 second period to make the game The Falcons would storm their 5-0-1 record in their sixth Zapolski played outstanding in in Atlantic Hockey play. interesting. back in the second period game of a nine home stand. goal saving 83 out of 89 shots The Lakers started off the Sophomore Scott Pitt scored outshooting the Lakers 19-5. The Lakers will play Canisius on the weekend by the Falcons. weekend slow in Friday’s game a power play goal.. However, Zapolski only College on Tuesday, Feb. “The key performance of the versus Air Force going down 3- At 10:14, junior Neil Graham allowed one goal in this lopsided 3, at home and then a two series came from Ryan Zapolski 0 in the fi rst period. scored on assists from senior period. game series against American in net, he played phenomenal The slow fi rst period put the Kirk Meternach and freshman A goal by Air Force’s Josh International College on both nights and gave us a chance Lakers down 3-0, however, they Phil Ginand to bring the game Frider from his knees at 5:05 Friday, Feb.6, and Saturday, to win every game,” Meternach were not out yet. to 3-2. brought the game to a 1-1 Feb. 7. Reebok’s cash-grabbing stunt ruins jerseys

faster. or sweat. The sweat didn’t go make stripes look diaper-esque time, and I am not opposed. By John The league owners rejected it away, it pooled in the gloves and for teams like Chicago that kept However, jersey designs have Baranowski unanimously.Early prototypes skates instead, forcing players to the stripes. The vertical stripes never changed because of a Sports columnist made players look like a cross change equipment every period. that Calgary added aren’t meant fabric change. What RBK has between ice dancers and RBK appointed three player for hockey jerseys, and random done is perpetrate a cash-grab The Reebok Edge jerseys sausages. representatives to support the piping cause an apron-like of epic proportions, capitalizing are ruining hockey jerseys as One year later, the NHL jerseys on each team to combat appearance on Florida’s jerseys on the people who buy a jerseys. we know it. Collectors and accepted them. They were so complaints. or is pointless, like on those of As they slowly take over, I refuse enthusiasts have known this incredibly tight that the players Every team was required to Carolina. to support Reebok and will not since it happened. constantly complained. When design a new jersey to fi t these The templates of Pittsburgh wear an Edge jersey. I cringe at In 2003, Reebok proposed the NBA rejected the new new patterns. The results are and Ottawa are lame, and where every Winter Classic jersey or a new hockey uniform system jerseys, RBK loosened the cut a horrifi c. Many teams, such shoulder striping stops abruptly new Crosby jersey I see. that was skin tight and super- bit, everywhere but the sleeves. as Toronto, got rid of the on the back neck of the St. I send this plea to all hockey futuristic, intended to cut down Still, players balked. New traditional stripes on the bottom Louis jersey so the Reebok logo fans: Vote with your wallets, on wind resistance and make materials called Play-Dry were of their jerseys. Untucked-dress- can be highlighted, is abysmal. save your money and save the players allegedly 9 percent advertised not to absorb water shirt-like bottoms of the jerseys Jersey fabrics change all the jersey. February 4, 2009 SPORTS Page 15 Women’s hockey keeps perfect conference record Lakers defeat Wayne State at back-to-back home games

battle against the Warriors. “One of our greatest By Katie Waldin Setting the standards high, the advantages this year is our speed. Staff writer Lakers set the tone for the fi rst We have several extremely match up against Wayne State in talented and fast players,” With a roar from the crowd the fi rst period by out shooting Drennen said. and loud cheering from the them 17-3. Now 16-1 in their last bench, the Mercyhurst College The Lakers battled their 17 games, 5-0-0 and in the women’s hockey team stunned way until the end of the game, CHA, and 19-5-0 overall, the Wayne State University with two leaving the ice satisfi ed and Mercyhurst Lakers are on fi re victories this past week. happy with a 4-2 victory over as the second half of the season Defeating the CHA rivals one of their biggest conference gets under way. and squashing their perfect rivals. “The rest of the season we conference standing, the Lakers Saturday afternoon the story have only league games, which were thrilled to keep their own was no different as the Lakers are huge because our league, the perfect conference standing yet again came to the Mercyhurst CHA, is getting more and more intact. Ice Center prepared and ready respect,” Drennen said. “This year our team looks to take on the Warriors one “Every year we strive to great. Despite having a very more time. defend our CHA regular season young group we have done The competition was fi erce, championship, and this season well to use our strengths,” senior and hard work was put in as is no different, so truly every goaltender Courtney Drennen Lakers out shot the Warriors game is a must win for us.” said. 34-25. As the team moves forward Friday night and Saturday The second 4-2 victory they will fi ght hard for their afternoon the Lakers came on to excited the team as they look perfect CHA record as the ice ready to put up a tough forward to more CHA games they move closer to the later in the week. playoffs. Page 16 With a perfect CHA record, This week the Lakers will take Junior Nnamdi Nnadilli (3) and being ranked No. 4 in the on anther CHA rival as they drives to the basket in the nation, Mercyhurst is looking to play Niagara University on Tyler Stauffer photo Lakers’ win over Clarion move up as they keep pounding Friday, Feb. 6, and Saturday, Sophomore Ashley Cockell (21) and freshman Meghan Corbett with a score of 75-64. down the competition. Feb. 7. (20) control the puck at a game against Wayne State.

Men’s basketball back on track Johnson & Johnson seal the victory over California, the Lakers won with decent By Gary Coad which ended 66-64, but it also ease, which was a nice change Staff writer took great defense to hold of pace as the Golden Eagles Properties that lead for the remaining had defeated the Lakers the past The Lakers’ men’s basketball minute. 10 times the teams met. team got back to their old form Toward the end of the fi rst Senior Brian McTear once this past week after sliding into half, it looked like the Lakers again led the charge with a game a funk. were going to have trouble high of 19 points, 16 of them It seems, the old saying “there holding a lead once again as the coming in the second half. HOUSES FOR RENT is no place like home” rang true Vulcan’s had a 16-1 scoring run. The Lakers concluded the this past week as the Lakers won Thankfully, this was not week at 15-4 overall and a both of their games, defeating the case. The Lakers capped respectable 3-3 in the PSAC Starting June 1, 2009 Clarion University and California the game by sinking their free West. University of Pennsylvania. throws, which at crunch time The team is now poised It took Nnamdi Nnadili are not always free. to take down the Golden 814-860-8817 hitting a late three-pointer to In the game against Clarion, Knights. Laker Sports Geared up for Gannon

After a win over Clarion, Lakers prepare to take on rival Gannon at 7:30 p.m. tonight << Page 15