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Est. 1929The Vol. 90 No. 9 MERCIADMercyhurst university Wednesday, noveMber 16, 2016 University acts swiftly Administration forms united front in response to bias-based incident

By Karah Hollis Editor-in-Chief

Late last Tuesday, a student brought a racially charged Snapchat to the attention of Mercyhurst University via Twitter. Immediately, the university began responding to concerned students on the social media platform. Fac- ulty and staff quickly rallied behind the scenes to address the issue. On Wednesday morning around 9:30, students received an email from Pres- ident Michael T. Victor who voiced his disdain for the post and his support for the affected community. A second email followed that morning announcing a forum in the Performing Arts Center that students could attend that afternoon to ask questions and to hear from Victor and other student life administrators. “I was sickened last night to learn of a student’s racially charged social media post that went far afoul of our core values,” Victor said. “I cannot erase the pain, the anger, frus- tration that this offensive post has brought to bear on our Miranda L. Miller photo University family. Particularly The racist post made on social media was handled swiftly by administrators. A university panel addressed the issue and answered questions at a forum Wednesday. for members of our African American community.” hearing which is overseen by as students,” said Laura Zirkle, Marrero had a collective dis- people aren’t left out there in who we are, and not let this be The act was determined to a Student Conduct Panel. The vice president of Student Life. cussion, the Student Life staff, a vacuum like their opinions a wasted moment.” be a bias-based act. The stu- panel is made up of two fac- “They are not allowed on including Zirkle, met with don’t matter, because they do Sister Lisa Mary McCartney, dent handbook describes this ulty members, two staff mem- campus, they are not going to Victor to brief him on the matter,” Zirkle said. one of the Sisters of Mercy, type of act to be anything bers and two students. Each class, they are not allowed to incident. The forum was the Chris Norris, web/social was part of the forum panel. that “violate(s) another per- individual has gone through go to any of our events or the result of this meeting. media/video coordinator, McCartney stated that 10 son’s rights…(i.e. Race, sex, training and has sat on the library or anything like that. “We called up MSG, and the emphasized the impact of years ago, the Sisters of Mercy gender, sexual orientation, panel before. A facilitator is They are not permitted here MSG people who responded social media and how the uni- met to establish five critical color, creed, religion, disabil- typically present, but does not at all.” were the ones we were able to versity responded. concerns for the 21st century. ity, national origin, age, or have any voting rights. Because of the severity of get,” Zirkle said. “We put a high value on One of those concerns was status as a veteran).” A $250 Any other individuals par- this offense, the Student Con- Some students were con- social media as a tool to com- racism. fine, disciplinary probation ticipating in the hearing are duct Office moved swiftly. cerned about bias by those municate and engage with our “The best thing you can and possible suspension are invited and approved by the Megan McKenna, director of assisting in sorting the ques- students, families and commu- do to further the mission of also possible repercussions adjudicating authority. Wit- Residence Life and Student tions written down by stu- nity members. That means we Mercyhurst and the Sisters of for committing a bias-based nesses may also be called in. Conduct, was notified by one dents at the forum. strive to reply to every single Mercy is to search out your act. Questions are then asked to of her assistant directors. She “They weren’t picking and tweet, post or comment,” said own racism and to expel it and According to the handbook, help determine what exactly then spoke with Zirkle and choosing the questions that Norris. “Due to the nature to turn to ways of love. Love the conduct process begins happened. Punishments can Pertrina Marrero, director of would get answered, they were of what was shared, we felt is the only thing that is going with the documentation of the include but are not limited the Multicultural Center, the collating because we had 10 that everyone deserved to be to get any of us away from event. The report is then sub- to suspension and expulsion. same of evening of the inci- people asking about the same acknowledged with their con- our prejudices. Love is very mitted to the Student Conduct Students are able to appeal any dent. thing,” David Dausey, provost cerns and questions and we effective at bringing healing Office. A preliminary review decisions made by the board. “I think it’s crucial (to move and vice president for Aca- did our very best in communi- and harmony among peoples. is conducted by the assistant Normally, students are on quickly with this type of issue). demic Affairs, said. cating a resolution.” So, I would ask you to think in director of Residence Life campus for the entire pro- We wanted students to know The Marketing and Public Although this incident your own hearts about where and Student Conduct. If the cess. Due to the specific con- that we were aware, and by the Relations department did not has negatively affected the racism resides and to ask God incident is found to be sub- ditions, the students involved responses (on Twitter), it was waste any time responding to campus, it has sparked posi- for mercy,” she said. stantial, it is then passed to a were suspended. letting students know that we students on Twitter. Accord- tive conversation. Students did step out on Student Conduct Panel or the “In this case we felt that are aware and that we are in ing to Zirkle, they attempted “I think it’s also import- Twitter, exemplifying the director of Residence Life and a hostile environment was the process of fact-gathering to respond to every student ant when really bad things Mercy Mission, according to Student Conduct. The student created, and that it was such and trying to find out infor- post whether it was thanking happen, to find a way to Norris. or students involved will be an egregious act that we felt mation,” McKenna said. “It them for their support or clar- make good things come from notified and will be requested we needed to suspend them is important students know ifying misinformation. them,” said Zirkle. “We need to schedule a meeting to talk immediately and have them that we’re on it. And that it is “Some have questions and to not let this be a moment about the issue. off campus, which means, just important to us.” they have tried to respond that happens in passing, but Continued on page 2. The case moves on to a for clarity, they are not acting After McKenna, Zirkle and as quickly as possible so that a moment that kind of forms

Merciad Index Online Poll Results Are you happy with the new president?? News 1-2 Yes! It was the result I was hoping for. (18%) Features 3 No! I am outraged at the results. (74%) A&E 4-5 There is a new president? What happened to Obama? (6%,) I didn’t vote and didn’t really care.(2%) Opinion 6 Sports 7 Be sure to vote in this week’s online poll: Laker Living 8 Are you ready for the impending snow? merciad.mercyhurst.edu Page 2 The Merciad November 16, 2016 News Administration responds swiftly

Continued from page 1. next steps are. Especially me being new to Mercyhurst, I’m “I would like to thank the taking cues from students as students who stepped out to where do we need to go and shared words of encour- from here,” McKenna said. agement and reassurance in Although Residence Life Mercyhurst,” said Norris. is taking steps to curb bias- “Your Laker Spirit and Mercy based acts, students can take Pride helped to combat the action in the moment to stop negative nature of what was these offenses. McKenna and spreading across social media. Zirkle encourage students to If our founding Sisters had call each other out when an Twitter, they would have insensitive comment is made. favorited all of your tweets!” There is even a “Step Up” According to McKenna, program in place to help stu- Residence Life is taking steps dents with this. to help students who feel “It is about encouraging unsafe or just need someone people to bring it up. So if to talk to. you are comfortable, call it “More immediately we were out. Sometimes if you are not trying to—I don’t want to say comfortable confronting it, calm as in pretend it didn’t bring it to somebody else— happen—but make sure the ask for help,” said Zirkle. immediate students felt safe “The biggest thing that we because some people do con- don’t want to have happen is sider (campus) as a safe space it be ignored. The way that and we want to try and uphold we change these things is by that,” she said. us talking about it and it is by Residence Life is working students in this community toward creating programs to having these conversations, Contributed photo better educate students on bringing these things out in Polar Plunge participants race toward the chilly Lake Erie water in support of the Special Olympics on Nov. 12. social justice issues. the open.” “I think there’s some work McKenna also urges stu- we need to do there just in dents to find someone on general, and there are certain campus who is in an admin- plans we are heading toward,” istrative position, faculty or No cold feet for Erie Plunge said McKenna. “I think across staff member, or even a resi- By Eleanor Hein get about hip deep and just the board we need to take steps dent assistant who they trust Contributing writer dive in, it’s not as bad. The to figure out how to rebuild to talk to about issues. worst part is probably running our communities, especially “I think it comes down to back to the tents afterwards,” our freshmen areas.” we need more allies,” said Merychurst students enjoyed Lioi said. More importantly, Some of these new pro- McKenna. “We need people a day at the beach Nov. 12. however, according to Lioi, is grams will include training to stand up against some of While they may have gotten the companionship that partic- staff to incorporate social these behaviors and some their feet cold, they had no ipants feel as they run in large justice issues in conversations of the words that are said. cold feet when it came to groups into and then out of as well as how to respond to Even though they’re said in plunging into the 50 degrees the water. bias-based acts. jest, I think that when you Lake Erie to support the Spe- To Lioi, the event is about “There’s been some com- don’t represent that group of cial Olympics Pennsylvania so much more than just raising ments and some feelings out people you don’t know what it (SOPA). This is the second money. It is about the excite- there that do not necessarily means.” year that Erie has partaken in ment and camaraderie of the coincide with Mercyhurst core McKenna reinforced that the Polar Plunge, which is one participants doing something values and I think we need to the university has the stu- of many across the state. bigger than themselves, the bring that back to focus. And dents’ best interests at heart “Freezin’ for a Reason” team building that goes into I know that has been a theme and is taking the proper steps was this year’s theme, and effect the day of the plunge, for myself as well as many of to protect them. participants did just that, the awareness that is made my other colleagues in student “We want people to under- raising upwards of $70,000 by holding the event, partici- life,” McKenna said. stand that we are taking this for SOPA. Sam Lioi, senior, pating, donating, and also the Residence Life is also look- seriously and that it’s not played a major part in bring- equipment and transportation ing to partner with Black representative of Mercyhurst ing the Polar Plunge to Erie that is given to disabled stu- Students for Unity and the core values. We have an obli- last year. Lindsay Rowe, dents who would not be given LGBTQIA+ Club. gation to all the students to who serves with Lioi in the the opportunity to participate “There is some work we keep them safe and keep Mercyhurst Student Govern- in athletics without the efforts need to do in (the social jus- them feeling safe. That’s our ment, was the first to bring of the Special Olympics. tice) area. Trina does great primary focus. We are about the idea to the MSG. “Some of these people work, BSU does great work, making sure you’re getting a Heather Shadle, who cur- aren’t included on student ath- the LGBTQIA+ community quality experience and that’s rently serves as MSG Events letic teams,” said Lioi. “Which does great work,” said McK- why we did move quickly and Coordinator, having been Contributed photo isn’t just unfair and unkind, enna. “We need to expand on take the actions we did at this involved in planning similar Eliza Kisiel, Jennifer Hartwell, and Amelia Kanonczyk at the but it also prevents them from that and help them more in point,” she said. Polar Plunge events in her plunge. getting the exercise that they their efforts as well. I’m just home state of Ohio, volun- need to be as healthy as they lucky I have many RAs that teered her time and talent to dents who brought in well just put your toe in and turn can be.” are involved in those organi- assist with the event as well. over $7,500. Mercyhurst was around,” said Lioi. “But I Donations can still be made zations, so I’m hoping they Catherine Rainey, Cheyanne Together, Rowe, Shadle, and the most represented out of believe you should go all in.” to support the Special Olym- will feel supported and that we Crum, Amber Matha and Caitlyn Lioi brought the idea to life, all schools present, making up It’s easy to plan the event pics through Plunge partic- can work together on some of Lear also contributed to this report. and it seems that their legacy about one-fifth of the entire and ask people to go into the ipants. It’s a great way for those initiatives in the future.” is one that will outlive their event. These numbers far freezing Lake Erie. Lioi, how- the Erie community to come These programs are set to collegiate careers. exceeded the Erie Planning ever, goes the extra mile. Not together and make a differ- premier Fall 2017. Residence Last year, Mercyhurst was Board’s goals for the year. only has he done his part in ence. It is important that an Life is also looking at taking represented by about 30 stu- Participants gathered at putting the event together, but event born of the talent and other steps to improve feel- dents who raised approxi- Beach 7 on Presque Isle where he has also been a participant hard work of three diligent ings on campus. mately $3,500. This is to be they were assembled into waves in both plunges. Mercyhurst students have the “Once some healing is done, compared to this year’s 130 before taking the plunge. “It’s pretty cold leading up continued support of future we need to figure out what the @TheMerciad registered Mercyhurst stu- “Technically, you could to the plunge, but once you Lakers. Reception honors students on Dean’s List By Melanie Todd learning. Our students are to honor the students with a dedication and tenacity,” Staff writer the ultimate product of that reception. Dausey said. endeavor,” Dausey said. “The Dean’s List reception Not making the Dean’s List It takes a considerable is a tradition that started at this year should never discour- On Nov. 10, Mercyhurst amount of hard work and Mercyhurst decades ago. It age students. Students could held a reception to honor many students make sacrifices has been championed by our use it as motivation for the students earning a spot on , whether it is social events, academic leadership because upcoming semesters. Every- the Dean’s List. This year, sporting activities or sleep of its importance to the insti- one has to find their strengths Mercyhurst awarded 552 stu- in order to maintain a 3.6 or tution and to the students and weaknesses in learning dents. Students must have higher GPA. who represent the company and studying. Ask questions full-time status in order to “The students who make of scholars at Mercyhurst,” whether it is of other students receive this academic achieve- the Dean’s List represent the Dausey said. or faculty. Mercyhurst offers ment. best that we have to offer. We While the reception and resources such as the tutor- “A minimum of 12 graded are proud of all of them and certificate are nice rewards ing center for students seek- credits each semester and a 3.6 their incredible hard work,” to the students, there are tre- ing improvement with their or higher GPA is required,” Mercyhurst University photo Dausey said. mendous other benefits to the grades. David Dausey, Provost and Awards are given to students who make Dean’s List for both Though the recognition is achievement. “Don’t give up. We believe Vice President of Academic semesters the previous year. a small token compared to “Being on the Dean’s List is in all our students and are Affairs, said. the hard work the students a strong sign for any student always championing their suc- The 552 students is slightly students each year, about one- “Mercyhurst is a university devoted to earn placement applying to graduate school or cess,” Dausey said. above the average of about fifth of them are able to reach focused on academic excel- on the Dean’s List, the uni- applying for a job after grad- 500 students. Out of 2,500 this academic measure. lence through teaching and versity considers it important uation. It signifies discipline, November 16, 2016 The Merciad Page 3 Features

Class plans marrow drive Asking Mia By Elizabeth Shewan Another essential element nization that matches patients PBSC where they filter your Need advice? Have a problem that Staff writer of the class, in keeping with with blood cancers with blood and then replace it the tradition of the Sisters of potential donors,” Catherine into your body. Bone marrow needs fixing? Mia is here to help. Mercy, is volunteering. Erway, junior Sustainability donations are usually only for Email [email protected] for Mercyhurst students have “I want a key component to major with a Biology minor, children who react better to help. been tackling heavy topics in be service,” Turner said. said. the marrow,” Erway said. ******************* a unique class called Cancer: Students have done this In the future, registered Only one in approximately Biology and Beyond. by volunteering hours at the members of the registry 430 registered members are Dear Mia, “My point is to bring a holis- American Cancer Center and may be contacted if they are called upon to donate. tic view of cancer aside from will continue to volunteer matched to a potential recip- “I think the most import- just the science component,” with a bone marrow donor ient; however, there is no ant things about this drive are Sara Turner, Ph.D., assistant registration drive. future obligation. that this drive is not a prom- As a freshman I knew college would professor of Biology and The participants at the drive If you become a donor, ise to commit to donating, it be hard. I thought my high school teacher of the course, said. will fill out a questionnaire you will most likely be asked only takes 10 minutes to be prepared me enough, but frankly it The class has had many did not. I’m very close to failing and have a simple cheek swab to go through a procedure added to the registry and most a class and I know that will make guest speakers who have done. called peripheral blood stem importantly that this can save me feel very down during Christmas spoken on a wide variety The information from the cell (PBSC) donation, which is someone’s life,” Erway said. break. I don’t want to be seen as a of topics: cancer survivors cheek swab will be stored in non-invasive and has no side The drive will take place on failure. talking about their experience, the National Bone Marrow effects. Dec. 2, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. cancer researchers, pharma- Registry, organized by Be the “A majority of those who in the Student Union Great Sincerely, cists and hospice workers, Match. are matches don’t have to Room. among others. “Be The Match is an orga- give marrow, most go through College-is-hard Asian culture brought to ’Hurst Dear College-is-hard,

By Bernard Garwig meeting on Oct. 27, it became He’s also interested in work- language, but going abroad Staff writer clear that there are quite a few ing with the students,” Lamm to study after they graduate. Your name says it all. Yes, directions that the club could said. We’re working with them college is hard, but you will go. The club, which shares the to help them apply to these get through it. Many people One of Mercyhurst’s “There’s a group of stu- name of the Arirang Institute Korean government pro- have a sort of wake-up call when newest clubs, the Arirang Cul- dents who want to learn he works for, also appears on grams,” Lamm said. coming to college. I know I did. ture Club, fills a unique void Korean, the language, and the institute’s website in an The students are getting Transitioning from high school to a in the campus extracurriculars then there’s another group of article. hour-long sessions once a university can be challenging, and scene. students who are interested in It is not a coincidence that week to learn the language just remember you are not alone. “I spent nearly the past the pop culture, the music,” the club shares the same name better so that they can pass Even if you do end up failing the six years in Korea, a lot of Lamm said. as the organization that he the South Korean govern- class, that is OK. A lot of other my work focused on Korean Despite the large number works for. Lamm hopes that ment’s language test. From students are in the same boat as culture, language, people,” you because it is hard to adjust. of influences from the intel- he can establish connections this scholarship, students are Don’t get too down on yourself. said Michael Lamm, assis- ligence program, Lamm with people overseas for stu- given a full ride to a year at a I’m sure you studied as much as tant professor of Intelligence emphasizes that this is a club dents through the promotion language school, followed by you can, but sometimes a class just Studies. “At Mercyhurst, there open to all students. of the club online. two years of graduate school doesn’t click with you. As much as is no Korean-Japanese-Chi- “This (club) provides an “This is to show that in South Korea. it sucks failing a class you have nese related culture club, so I outlet into Asian/Korean cul- Americans are interested in “These are kind of your worked so hard in all semester, worked with the students to ture,” Lamm said. Korean culture,” he says when Korean Mania folks,” Lamm now you’ll know how to improve next start one.” The club recently had referring to a brief piece on said. time whether you take that course Lamm is in his first year as a movie night where they Mercyhurst students’ interests Josie Meagher is the pres- again or not. You won’t be seen as a professor at Mercyhurst. A watched the Russian docu- in Korea on the site. Through ident of the Culture Club. a failure for doing poorly in one former student, he served in mentary “Under the Sun” on sharing the article on Arirang’s She works with Vice Pres- class. I’m sure your family has the United States Army in been in that position too. Don’t North Korea. website, Lamm was able to ident David McDonald to forget you can still get a tutor to South Korea before working They also hosted Hyun Song find a Korean friend who is host language cafes for inter- try and bring your grade up. Also, for the 501(c)(3) nonprofit of the No Chain for North interested in donating “crates ested students. It helps fill a ask the teacher if there’s any Arirang Institute. He formed Korea group via Skype, where of books for language learn- void according to her, due the extra credit you can do. Hopefully the club with a group of inter- students were allowed to ask ing.” retirement of Keiko Sensei they’ll be a little understanding ested students, of whom sev- him questions about his work “It’s all about not only doing last year and the subsequent since this is your first semester at eral are graduate students at with North Korean defectors the activities but letting people elimination of the Japanese college. Mercyhurst, to continue their and his efforts to sneak USB know that you are doing the beginner classes. path in higher education. sticks into the country. activities,” Lamm said. “David and I teach Japa- Sincerely, “We were working on some Lamm has made several ini- The Arirang Culture Club is nese,” said Meagher. “Profes- research together, then we had tiatives so far to grow the club. more than just a club for some sor Lamm teaches Korean and the idea for the club. It sort of “Some books were donated students. we have a few other students happened organically,” Lamm and I reached out to Mr. Park “There is a group of stu- who have expressed desire to said. who runs Park’s Tae Kwon dents who are interested in teach Mandarin and possibly Mia When the club had its first Do (located on Peach Street). not only learning Korean Hindi.” 1965 alumna receives Ode to PBS’s Gwen Ifill women’s initiative award By Marco Cicchino the only African-American marked the first time an Afri- Staff writer woman on the staff. can-American woman mod- By Jordan Pendel for eighth graders. “They didn’t know what a erated a major political talk Staff writer “Being in a position to train college-educated black woman show. new mentors for the financial The world of political jour- was and they didn’t know how Five years later, Ifill made literacy program so that the nalism lost one of its icons to treat me,” Ifill said to The history again as the first Afri- Dedicating her life to moti- ‘work’ will continue in perpe- on Monday, as PBS member Washington Post. can-American woman to pre- vating and mentoring young tuity is most satisfying,” Gray station WETA-TV confirmed She joined the Baltimore side over a vice-presidential women, ’65 Mercyhurst alum said. that longtime reporter, mod- Evening Sun in 1981 as a debate. Maureen Gray has recently While at Mercyhurst, Gray erator and anchor Gwen political correspondent and Ifill and PBS colleague Judy been awarded the Lois B. earned a bachelor’s degree Ifill passed away after a year- stayed for three years before Woodruff became co-anchors Green Leadership Award. in French and minored in long battle with endometrial leaving for the Washington of the Newshour, and the This award is presented English. After receiving her cancer. Post, creating a niche in an era first all-female anchor nightly through the Women’s Initia- master’s, she taught at Ban- “I am very sad to tell you exemplified by the rarity of newscast team. tive within the United Way of croft School. For the last 26 that our dear friend and both African-American and “(She) loved storytelling Central Massachusetts. years, she has been involved beloved colleague passed away female journalists. and loved helping people The award is a way to honor in the investment business today in hospice care in Wash- After covering her first understand what was going women whose deep commit- Mercyhurst University photo as Senior Wealth Strategist ington,” WETA President and presidential race in 1988, she on in the world around them,” ment and dedication make a Maureen Gray graduated from for the Gray Group at UBS CEO Sharon Percy Rockefel- joined the New York Times Woodruff told the New York meaningful difference in their Mercyhurst in 1965 with a Financial Services. ler in a staff email said. and covered Bill Clinton’s Times. “For young women of community. The Women’s Ini- bachelor’s degree in French When Gray was a senior at From the age of nine, Ifill first campaign. She began to color looking for a role model, tiative was founded by Lois B. and a minor in English. Mercyhurst, she received the recognized her desire to be a make television appearances she was it.” Green 12 years ago, and the Carpe Diem award. journalist, growing up during as a panelist around this time. Ifill wanted to be that role award is a way to honor her United Way of Central Mas- “I was so honored and did the Civil Rights Movement. Tim Russert brought her model. memory. The Women’s Initia- sachusetts website describes not feel I deserved it because “I was very conscious of the to NBC’s “Meet the Press” in “When I was a little girl tive requests nominations and the Women’s Initiative as fol- we had such a high powered world being this very crazed 1994. watching programs like this, has its own committee from lows: They “build, strengthen class,” said Gray. “That award place that demanded explana- “I loved covering presi- because that’s the kind of the community to review and support the development meant so much to me and bol- tion. I didn’t see a whole lot dential politics not so much nerdy family we were, I would them and select a winner. of healthy, confident and safe stered my confidence; it stays of people who looked like me because of the candidates, look up and not see anyone “We have 1,400 members adolescent girls” by empower- with you throughout your doing it on television, (but) but because of the people it who looked like me in any who contribute each year so ing them “through mentoring life.” you get used to being under- allowed me to talk to,” Ifill way,” Ifill once said to the New that we can raise between and educational opportuni- In 2015, she was awarded estimated,” Ifill said to the once said. “It’s much more York Times “No women. No $300,000 and $400,000 to ties.” Bancroft’s Robert W. Stoddard Archive of American Televi- fun to watch and to ask than people of color. I’m very keen give to community programs The Women’s Initiative Award for Outstanding Com- sion in 2011. to actually have to account for about the fact that a little girl which put our mission into also promotes financial liter- munity Service. Gray enjoys Ifill graduated from Sim- your behavior.” now, watching the news, when action,” Gray said. acy by offering programs to being an active mentor and mons College, an all-wom- In June 1999, Ifill became they see me and Judy sitting The Women’s Initiative is teen girls. One of these pro- role model to young women. en’s school in Boston, with a the moderator and managing side by side, it will occur to currently supporting programs is the “Dollar Scholar” bachelor’s degree in commu- editor for the long-running them that that’s perfectly grams that deal with bullying conference that Gray helped nications. She interned for public-affairs series “Wash- normal, that it won’t seem like and violence against girls. The found. They do five each year @TheMerciad the Boston Herald-American, ington Week in Review.” It any big breakthrough at all.” Page 4 The Merciad November 16, 2016 EntertainmentArts & REVIEW ‘Doctor Strange’ film a success there were some issues that I irks my inner fanboy. ment. lains. One is an actual issue for and their performances were By Matt Burgher had as a comic fan. Dormammu is not an idiot Marvel has access to these “Doctor Strange,” the pacing. top notch. Contributing writer However, Marvel Studios nor is he weak by any stretch amazing characters with liter- Like I stated before, the run They are arguably the best has something of an issue in of the imagination, but he was ally decades of content and time for this movie was 115 cast in the Marvel Cinematic “Doctor Strange,” one of terms of writing accurately tricked so easily in the movie they generally use none of it. minutes, which is just under Universe as well as the best the most highly anticipated from the source materials, so to the point where he was Marvel Studios focuses so two hours. portrayal of any hero in the movies of the year for both this was to be expected. practically a joke. much on the heroes of the That is an issue. When Marvel Cinematic Universe. comic book fans and casual On the other hand, some- Baron Mordo is also an story that the villains all come introducing a whole new char- The visual effects were also moviegoers, has just recently thing that Marvel Studios adversary of Doctor Strange out half–done and boring or acter to a previously estab- amazing. I was kind of wor- come to theaters and now does incredibly well is casting in the comics and therefore just plain awful (looking at lished universe, a lot needs to ried that it would seem too everyone is asking the same and keeping the character’s shouldn’t have been anywhere you, “Iron Man 3”) be explained. much like “Inception,” but it thing: Is it any good? actions and dialogue accurate near to being an ally. Villains in the Marvel Cine- Doing that in less than two was very unique and incredi- Having seen the movie, I of to the characters in the comic. As a comic fan, this movie matic Universe have become hours and also advancing the bly rendered. course have my fair share of “Doctor Strange” was no was great and I’d give it a cookie cutter and unmemora- overall plot and creating a This played a huge part in opinions ready to go and as different. 8-9/10. ble to the point where movie connection to the characters the fight scenes and the over- a movie fan and comic book Benedict Cumberbatch was Moving on, as a movie fan fans and comic fans can’t care is not an easy thing to do well. all feel of the movie. It was reader, there is plenty to be the best possible choice for there are some different opin- for them. “Doctor Strange” tried to do incredibly immersive and fast said about this film. the role. It was as if he was ions that need to be shared. Caecilius and Dormammu, all this and suffered for it. paced and perhaps some of I will be breaking my review born for it. Marvel Studios as a produc- though there was plenty of The love interest was hardly the best I’ve seen come from into two separates sides so Some people have already tion team forces a lot of their potential, hardly had any interesting and the tragic char- Marvel Studios yet. that they don’t overlap. complained about Strange movies to suffer from the development or background acter back story wasn’t very The story and the messages One side is from the per- being an arrogant individual in same issues repeatedly. established for themselves in heart wrenching. conveyed, particularly from spective of being a comic fan the movie and that not being One of these is very bland the movie. The final battle was pathetic Tilda Swinton’s “The Ancient and the other being a movie very “superhero-y,” but that is and repetitive cinematogra- And when the run–time is all because creating an air of One,” were wonderful. fan. I’ll start with my comic exactly who the character is in phy. 115 minutes, sure it may not pathos for these characters This proves that the Marvel fan review. the comics. It’s very basic and it’s very be able to be done well, but so quickly doesn’t work so Cinematic Universe can take Now, going into a super- Every single character was safe filming and there really is Marvel’s attempts at doing it nobody really cares. itself seriously and still create hero movie being a fan of the perfectly portrayed except for nothing wrong with that other make it all the more pathetic. And it’s not like Marvel quality and well liked movies. original stories comes with two not–so–minor ones, Dor- than it gets kind of boring and Also, for most of “Doctor doesn’t do two–plus–hour Overall, this was a decent somewhat of a preconceived mammu and Baron Mordo. straining for the mind of crit- Strange,” the movie suffered movies because they do and movie for the serious movie idea, or at least an eye out for For those unfamiliar with ics. from the “Guardians of the those are arguably the best goer. particular details. the comics, Dormammu is However, “Doctor Strange” Galaxy” complex, where they’ve done so far (“Captain There was definitely a fair These details include one of the most powerful does not suffer from this. people know that the protag- America: Civil War,” “Aveng- share of issues all around, whether or not the story beings in the Marvel Universe There was a heavy variety onist is fighting the person ers” and “Captain America: but it was an overall solid and is accurate to the comics, who is in complete domi- of shots collected that helped right in front of him but the The Winter Soldier”). faithful rendition of “Doctor whether the characters are nation of his realm (time, the overall look and experi- real threat is looming close by, The movies shorter than Strange.” done justice and various other space, etc.) and the fact that ence of the film. leaving that initial threat small two hours are often the worst points of accuracy. he couldn’t stop Strange from Another thing that Marvel and weak in comparison, ones as well (“Thor,” “Ant- The back story of “Doctor reverting time is not some- films suffer from, and this taking even more away from Man” and “The Incredible Strange” was fairly accurate to thing that would ever happen time “Doctor Strange” does the villains. Hulk”). the source material, though in the comics and therefore fall to this, is villain develop- There are ways to fix the vil- On the other hand, the cast @TheMerciad

Leighann Sallick photo The Chamber Orchestra, led by Jonathan Moser, rehearsing for their upcoming concert. Orchestra debuts new conductor orchestra. instrument being featured is By Caitlyn Lear The orchestra has four sec- normally a part of the orches- Staff writer tions: woodwinds, strings, tra as well. brass and percussion. This piece is unique because On Dec. 9, the Mercyhurst The concert will include the clarinet is left out of the Chamber Orchestra will per- three works. orchestra. form their winter concert. When creating the program, The third piece is Beetho- The performance will take Moser wanted to choose ven’s Symphony No. 2. place at 8 p.m. in Walker the types of pieces that the “Beethoven has three stages Recital Hall and will be free students would most likely in his career and this is from and open to the public. encounter when taking part in the early period,” Moser said. The Orchestra has 35 mem- future ensembles. Moser chose the second bers—some are Mercyhurst The first is Mozart’s Ido- symphony because it has a students and some members meneo Overture. This piece is classical component and the of the community. the instrumental introduction second fits the instrument The ages of performers to the opera and has a mystical availability within the orches- range from middle schoolers component to it. tra. to retirees. It foreshadows what hap- This will be Moser’s first Members come from all pens in the rest of the opera concert at Mercyhurst with walks of life—anywhere from and ends in a state of unrest. the orchestra. chaplain to postal service The second piece is Weber’s He participated in the fac- supervisor. Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E ulty collage concert, Michael This is their second concert flat major. T. Victor’s inauguration and as a community orchestra. Rebecca Wunch, M.M., will the Mercyhurst Prep gala. “The community orchestra be the featured clarinet in the “The opportunity to be in isn’t common; it’s innovative,” concerto. the orchestra is an additional said Jonathan Moser, director. Moser allowed Wunch to learning experience for the “It really solidifies the ‘beyond choose the piece. students. the gates’ idea.” He had asked her if she They get to learn from There are no other com- were interested in perform- those that perform but have munity orchestras in the area. ing a clarinet concerto, as she pursued other careers,” Moser One member even drives is the clarinet instructor on said. down from Jamestown, New campus. York to be a part of the In a normal concerto, the November 16, 2016 The Merciad Page 5 EntertainmentArts & REVIEW Jazz it up at Mercyhurst major Joe Porter on trom- luscious chords and a moving By Jeanette Fournier bone,” Gilson said. melody from Timko on alto Staff writer “We’ll be playing ‘Get In sax,” Gilson said. Line,’ by Gordon Goodwin’s “I Remember Clifford” was The Mercyhurst Jazz Big Phat Band,” Gilson said. written in honor of the jazz Ensemble will be giving a con- “It’s an edgy, rugged, fast trumpeter Clifford Brown cert on Saturday, at 8 p.m. in paced funk tune.” after his unexpected passing. Taylor Little Theatre. “Get In Line” will feature “It’s a reflective ballad,” said The ensemble, led by Scott solos by Timko on alto sax- Gilson. Meier, Ph.D., will be perform- ophone, Gilson on baritone “It’s a written remembrance ing a variety of pieces, one of saxophone and Rodgers on of Brown’s legacy in the jazz which is “Superbone Meets guitar. world.” the Bad Man” by Jay Chatt- Also on the program is “I Remember Clifford” will away, originally recorded by “Computer,” by Bob Mintzer. feature senior Music Educa- Maynard Ferguson. “This piece is very cool,” tion member Sierra Decola on “It’s a high energy swing said Gilson. trumpet. chart,” said Caden Gilson, “When all parts play Some of Meier’s goals for junior Music major and together, it emulates a func- the members of Jazz Ensem- member of the Jazz Ensem- tioning machine.” ble include learning how to ble. “Computer” will feature listen to the sections around The piece will feature soph- solos by freshman Music them and blend as an ensem- omore Music major Martin Therapy major Miranda Wall ble. Webster on trombone and on tenor saxophone and “He wants us to learn how Gilson on baritone saxo- freshman Music Education to create the best sound pos- phone. major Lauren Tucci on drums. sible, find that pocket and fit “Moten Swing,” by Buster The ensemble will also in there, because that’s how Jeanette Fournier photo and Benny Moton of Count play “Straight No Chaser” by we’re going to create the most Nathan Hess, D.M.A., left, and James Bobick, right, after Bobick’s recital on the Nov. 9. Basie’s orchestra, is also on the Thelonious Monk, originally swingin’ and in-sync sound we list of repertoire the ensemble recorded by Buddy Rich and can as a group of musicians,” will offer on their concert. his Band. explained Gilson. “It has a nice, tasteful swing “It’s a medium fast swing When asked why Mercyhurst Bobick’s recital a success feel featuring some light chart with impressive licks students and other members switch dynamics sure to keep from the saxophone section, of the Erie community should Dulcinea”). The last movement, “Kein you on your feet,” Gilson said. By Jeanette Fournier featuring Timko on the alto attend the Mercyhurst Jazz The fourth and last move- Haus, Keine Heimat” (“No The ensemble will be play- sax,” Gilson said. “It’s raw, it’s Ensemble concert, Gilson Staff writer ment, “Chanson de la Mort de House, No Homeland”), ing “How Sweet It Is,” by cool; you don’t need no chaser replied: “Why not? The charts Don Quichotte,” (“Song of began with a motive in the Sammy Nestico. for this one.” are fun and exciting, and they On Nov. 9, at 8 p.m., James the Death of Don Quixote”), piano from Hess that appeared “It’s a cool, laidback blues They will also perform really show a different side of Bobick, baritone, gave a closed the set. again in Bobick’s vocal line in chart featuring solos by senior two ballads, “Goodbye My the music department. We’re recital of French, German This movement was inter- the words “Kein Haus, Keine Music Education major Kevin Heart,” by Mike Smuckal, and not just classical musicians; and English art songs, accom- preted painfully and beau- Heimat.” Timko on alto saxophone, “I Remember Clifford,” by we’re here to have fun, too, panied on piano by Nathan tifully by both Hess and The song ended abruptly senior Intelligence major Matt Benny Golson. and this music allows us to Hess, D.M.A., D’Angelo Bobick. Bobick’s sobbing tone and effectively with Bobick’s Rodgers on trumpet and adult “‘Goodbye My Heart’ is a just let loose and jazz it up.” Department of Music chair sang out over dark chords on final line, “Welt, fragst du student Music Education huge alto sax piece, with huge, and assistant professor of the piano from Hess. nach mir nicht, was frag’ ich piano. Bobick executed a soaring nach dir?” (“World, if you do James Bobick, instructor crescendo full of pathos on not ask about me, why should of voice, opera and diction the climatic line “Si tous les I ask about you?”), followed for singers, has led an excit- livres m’ont tué” (“If books by an angry, emphatic chord ing career as a baritone, rang- have killed me”), and his pia- from Hess. ing from roles in operas by nissimo high E natural, writ- Bobick’s third set was Songs composers as varied as Verdi, ten by Ibert specifically to of Travel by the English com- Mozart and Donizetti to con- show off the great Russian poser Ralph Vaughan Wil- temporary composers such as bass Chaliapin’s vocal prow- liams. Heggie, Adamo and Eaton. ess, was superb. The set began with the pop- Bobick began with the 20th Bobick’s second set was the ular tune, “The Vagabond,” century French composer German Romantic composer which Bobick and Hess inter- Jacques Ibert’s “Chansons de Johannes Brahms’s Fünf preted simply and effectively. Don Quichotte.” Lieder, Op. 94. The first move- Hess’s march–like, staccato Hess began the first movement, “Mit Vierzig Jahren” rhythms on the piano and ment, “Chanson du depart” (“At Forty Years Old”), which Bobick’s energetic, controlled Contributed photo (“Song of departure”) with featured a musical conversa- vocal line captured the essence The Wind Ensemble in the Performing Arts Center during their fall concert of last year. a dreamy piano introduction tion between Bobick and Hess of the traveling vagabond. with a slight note of intensity. from the accompaniment and The seventh song in the Bobick entered a capella, vocal line. cycle, “Whither Must I and throughout the work, he Both Hess and Bobick built Wander,” is perhaps the most mainly sang a capella with the line “Und eh du’s denkst, well-known song in the cycle. Oldies but goodies only a few chords provided by bist du im Port” (“And before Bobick sang through the Hess at the ends and begin- you know it, you will be in sweeping melody in this Suite in F major. Dean by the American com- By Jeanette Fournier nings of phrases, so that the port”) dramatic, tense repeat simple, yet powerful song and “It’s a wonderful work, poser Larry Daehn entitled Staff writer whole movement was remi- line. expressed its story beautifully. based largely on folk song,” “As Summer Was Just Begin- niscent of a recitative. The tension came to end The last song, “I Have Meier said. ning.” Bobick finished the song with a calming resolution. Trod the Upward and the On Dec. 4, at 4 p.m. in the “It’s tuneful, enjoyable and The title comes from the with a full crescendo on the Bobick sang the final word, Downward Slope,” was per- Mary D’Angelo Performing easy on the ears.” inscription on Dean’s tomb- word “aventureux” (which and Hess continued with a haps the most powerful song Arts Center, the Wind Ensem- Also on the program will stone. “It’s a beautiful expres- translates as “adventurous”). rolled chord, which illustrated performed at the recital, an ble will be presenting “Out of be the American composer sion of loss,” said Meier, The next movement, beautifully the weary man’s impressive feat given that the Files,” the ensemble’s Fall Vincent Persichetti’s 6th sym- “but it’s also hopeful. It has “Chanson á Dulcinée,” (“Song final homecoming. Bobick had already been sing- 2016 performance. phony. moments of hopefulness.” for Dulcinea”), was an upbeat The third movement, “Mein ing for an hour. The Wind Ensemble is led “It’s a unique work,” Meier The Wind Ensemble will song in the major mode, fea- Hertz ist Schwer” (“My Heart The song began with a by Scott Meier, Ph.D., Asso- said. “Persichetti sounds like close with an old favor- turing melismatic “Ahs” that Is Heavy”) began with Hess weary, plodding intro on the ciate Professor of Saxophone no other.” ite: “Sleigh Ride,” by Leroy Bobick carried through with creating a restless, anxious piano from Hess, after which and Music Education. The symphony is written in Anderson, an American com- tension and energy toward undercurrent of sound while Bobick entered on the vocal “It’s basically a collection of the pan diatonic style. poser of light concert music. the following words of the Bobick sang the part of the line with a full, strong power- cornerstone literature,” said “The work does not follow “It’s just fun,” Meier said. repeated phrase occurring reserved, staid old man rem- ful sound. Meier. “Oldies, but great.” traditional resolution struc- The concert will also fea- three times throughout the iniscing on his lost youth, The song closed with The ensemble will offer six ture. Persichetti has a different ture two student conduc- song: “Ah…Un an me dure la until, unable to keep his emo- ascending chords in the piano different works on the pro- idea of tension and release,” tors, senior Music Education journée si je ne vois ma Dul- tions in check any longer, the and a gorgeous pianissimo gram, one of which is the Meier said. majors Sierra DeCola and cinée.” (“Ah…a day lasts a song built into a dramatic high D from Bobick. 20th century English com- The ensemble will play a Sarah Levin. whole year if I do not see my conclusion. poser Gustav Holst’s Second tone poem written for James ’Tis the season to fa la la in love with Dance department’s annual Christ- tissements” of “The Nut- interpretations. p.m., as well as on Dec. 3, at Tickets for adults range By Eleanor Hein mas show featuring Act II of cracker” Act II, which takes This production, according 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. from $19 to $34, but the show Staff writer the “Nutcracker Suite” as well place in the Land of the to Voulgarakis, is one inter- Tickets will be $5, with free will also include live music as Mark Santillano’s “Holiday Sweets. Voulgarakis defines pretation of many. admission to children 12 and by the Erie Philharmonic While most students were Fun on Fa La La La Lane,” “divertissements” as “dances “Holiday Fun on Fa La La under. Orchestra for the first time busy in September not think- which is a half–hour long jazz that do not move the plot for- La Lane” premiered in 2014 Do you have plans that ever. ing about the imminent Erie and tap–based story that will ward, [and] in this instance it and is being brought to life weekend, but still want to see Take advantage of these winter, the Mercyhurst Dance make you laugh, cry and fall will be group dances that rep- again by the department for the show? opportunities to “Fa La La Department was already in love, according to junior resent different regions of the this year’s show. “The Nutcracker” perfor- La” in love with Mercyhurst’s warming up to the Christmas Dance and Business major world,” Voulgarakis said. The show will be performed mance will be presented again talented dancers. Spirit. That’s right! Rebecca Voulgarakis. “The Nutcracker” first pre- in the Mary D’Angelo Per- from Dec 17-18 at the Warner This December will see the Half of the show will be a miered in the year 1892 and forming Arts Center on Dec. Theatre as a part of the Lake continued tradition of the performance of the “diver- has since undergone many 2, at both 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 Erie Ballet’s show.

Full list of events can be found View upcoming performances: merciad.mercyhurst.edu/category/arts_ on the MU website www.mercyhurst.edu/events entertainment/ Online Page 6 The Merciad November 16, 2016 Opinion The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the views of Mercyhurst University, the staff of The RelayMerciad or forthe Catholic Life Church.successful Responses on any subject are always welcomed and can be emailed to [email protected].

Mercyhurst campus would benefit from being smoke free Good many times to quit. I can go smoke, this may also come as feet away from the door, By Caitlyn for months without smoking a relief. Some of my friends whereas here, the receptacles Lear and then one stressful week do not like walking through are usually right next to the Mercyhurst University is in the pro- Staff writer will send me spiraling back. clouds of cigarette smoke door Sometimes it is the only thing as they leave the buildings Plus, cigarette butts do cess of considering opening a new that can calm me down and it around campus. Secondhand not always make it to the campus in Dungarvan, Ireland, which We all know the down- is a common form of stress smoke is just as harmful as designated waste areas. If falls of smoking and how it relief for many people. smoking the cigarette your- you look at the picnic table would give students more opportuni- affects our health. Between I know I should stop, but it self. next to the Grotto Commons ties for studying abroad. asthma and lung cancer, really is addicting and I know There may be designated for example, the ground is the health outcomes can be that I am not as addicted as smoke areas, but those on littered with cigarette butts. pretty severe. Yet there are others who need to smoke campus can smoke while Not only are people smoking many people on campus who every couple of hours in walking between classes. and polluting the air, they are continue to smoke anyway. order to go about their day. They only have to be 20 feet also littering the ground with According to the Center for So when I hear that the away from the nearest build- their trash. Disease Control and Preven- campus may become smoke ing. And during the winter, Personally, I think making tion (CDC) in 2013, 212,584 free, I am all for it. we all know that people stand campus smoke free is a great Bad people were diagnosed with Having a smoke free closer to the buildings to try idea. It gives that extra push lung cancer and 156,176 died campus will be one less and stay out the wind and for me to quit. It keeps Cigarette butts left on the ground from the disease. The CDC opportunity for me to smoke. snow. campus clean and protects also states that in Pennsylva- I do not smoke around my The fact that students and those who do not smoke outside are not only an eyesore for nia the death rate due to lung friends because very few of faculty smoke by the doors is from having to deal with the students on campus, but are also bad cancer is 45.1 per 100,000 them smoke, and seeing as also a result of the placement secondhand effects in a place for the environment. cases. how I spend 90 percent of of the cigarette butt disposal where most students spend a I smoke from time to time. my time on campus, I would boxes. Other college cam- majority of their time. My ex-boyfriend got me into not have the time to smoke. puses have waste receptacles smoking, and I have tried For those who do not for cigarette butts 20 to 30 @TheMerciad Yoga Club offers stress-free zone breathe in, a powerful feeling relaxing. future announcements. By Sarah of gratitude and appreciation For our first trip as a Furthermore, if you are Miller for this life and yourself fills group, we drove to Presque interested, Solveig Santil- Contributing your heart and permeates to Isle State Park for some yoga lano, B.F.A, started teaching writer the tips of your fingers and and meditation. a series of yoga classes at 9 toes. The club is currently plan- a.m. in the DanceSpace on Caitlyn Lear photo After the first few weeks of Through this experience ning several special events Nov. 12. class and a killer cold, I des- and sort of enlightenment, here on campus as well as Mats will be provided, but perately needed some form I am more able to seize each other ventures to explore you are welcome to bring of replenishment to reclaim day and feel like my best self. different outlets for yoga. your own as well. She will my sanity. Thanks to the Yoga Club, I Since the holidays are also be teaching two more Though it may surprise can make time in my schedule coming up, the Yoga Club classes this semester on you, I did not discover the to focus on telling myself to will meet one evening before Saturday mornings: Nov. 19, Interesting peace I needed through a simply slow down and just winter break to make eye and Dec. 10, at 9 a.m. in the church service. I did not pray breathe, which is a powerful pillows and sandbags. The DanceSpace. or confess. I did not worship tool for restoration, finding gently weighted pillows help The Yoga Club also holds This year’s supermoon is the closest any god of any sort nor did balance and living a proactive calm the mind while subtly classes throughout the week I take one of those mythical, life. adding weight over the eyes in the DanceSpace that are the moon has been to Earth since 1948. all-renewing four-hour naps. The club likes to take trips and completely blocking out taught by Mercyhurst stu- It was only 221,526 miles away! It will Instead, I joined Yoga Club. to meditate, and do yoga away light. dents. not be this close to Earth again until The beautiful thing about from campus, as this is where They are great tool to These classes are free yoga and especially medita- a bulk of student stress origi- enhance meditation, savasana and for our enjoyment, so I November 2034. tion, at least for me, is that it nates. This is helpful because and relaxation or restorative encourage anyone that feels a makes you analyze and ques- it takes students’ minds off poses. Also, they make great little stressed out to come and tion, “am I really living?” of all of their school work gifts. I would not want to experience the relief that I As you meditate and so that they can just focus on miss it, so look out for any have felt through this club. Students celebrate NaNoWriMo through writing their own novels The Merciad far away from the Write-In won, but it stuck in my head For me, NaNoWriMo isn’t By Miranda locations, they have Virtual through the first half of my about the 50,000 words or the Editors Positions @mercyhurst.edu Miller Write-Ins on their YouTube fall semester of freshman Nov. 30th deadline. Karah Hollis Editor-in-Chief editormerciad Managing Editor managingmerciad page that allow participants to year. Could I write a novel in It is about the friends that I Catherine Rainey Copy editor Caitlyn Lear News Editor newsmerciad become a part of something a month? I tried that year, and meet, the ideas that I imagine Cheyanne Crum Features Editor featuremerciad bigger, which I would argue only got about 10,000 words and the creativity that I keep Diego Himede Sports Editor sportsmerciad NaNoWriMo, or for plebe- is one of the most important in, but the community was alive. Jenny Sabliov A&E Editor entertainmentmerciad ians, National Novel Writing aspects of NaNoWriMo. incredible. They helped me NaNoWriMo keeps me Amber Matha Opinion Editor opinionmerciad Month, takes place annually Ever since I was a young every step of the way, from excited about being creative, Miranda L. Miller Copy Editor copymerciad from Nov. 1 to Nov. 30. kid, writing was one of my naming my main character, to and it forces me to set aside Chelsea Guida Photo Editor photomerciad Each year, thousands of favorite things to do. giving me much-needed pep time to write, even if it’s only Victoria Kreysar Ad Manager admerciad people all over the world get I could go anywhere, real talks. I eventually finished for one month out of the Kristin Bowers Adviser kbowers together with a common goal: or make-believe, between that novel, but NaNoWriMo whole year. write 50,000 words. the pages of a world that I rekindled my passion for Even though I may be It does not have to be a designed. writing. overloading my body’s circuits novel and it doesn’t even have In my hometown, I have I participated both my with caffeine and bothering to be good; 50,000 words is been blessed with a writing sophomore and my junior my friends with plot hole your only goal. If you reach group sponsored by my local year, not winning either questions such as: “Shelby, this lofty goal you can say you library where I could go and time, but always writing. It do you think a mind-reader The Merciad is the official student-produced “won.” There is no prize but get critique and guidance. doesn’t matter if I win or would really do this? I’m newspaper of Mercyhurst University. It is published the bragging rights and the However, once I came to not, because by the end of not sure,” or “Can you read throughout the school year, with the exception of finals joy you feel after completing college, I was away from my November, I’ve still written this? I’ll share it with you on weeks. Our office is in Hirt, Room 110. Ourtelephone such an enormous task. writing club. chapters and chapters of a Google.” number is (814) 824-2376. The NaNoWriMo orga- I lost motivation. I lost book that I would have never I am so grateful that nization helps you out by my sounding board and my even started had it not been NaNoWriMo has given me a The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor. All organizing get togethers with support group. for NaNo. chance to keep my childhood letters must be signed and names will be included other WriMos, or participants, When I went away to This year, I am doing it passion alive through adult- with the letters. Although we will not edit the letters at Write-Ins in local places to school, my mentor at the again. It is stressful to keep hood. for content, we reserve the right to trim letters to get you connected with other local library reminded me of up with the word count, and fit. Letters are due Mondays by noon and may not people that also enjoy causing NaNoWriMo. most days I am battling just be more than 300 words. Submit letters to box PH themselves pain. I had not participated in to hit yesterday’s goal. 485 or via email at opinionmerciad@mercyhurst. For WriMos that live too two years, and I had never I may win, or I may not. @TheMerciad edu.

Read more at Write for The Merciad, email merciad.mercyhurst.edu/opinion [email protected] Online November 16, 2016 The Merciad Page 7 Sports Lakers, Orange battle to split at MIC

By Marco Cicchino the second when Sarah Hine Lakers to their second straight Staff writer set up Paige Horton before game with three goals allowed Miller turned it aside, but at the second intermission. Brooke Hartwick cleaned up Sisti’s squad turned the A battle of preseason favor- and buried her team-high fifth table in the third, as Knott, ites went back and forth as of the season. the game’s first star, tallied her expected, but now it’s up to But the Lakers’ sixth penalty second of the game and third Michael Sisti and Paul Flana- of the contest—a hooking of the season at 5:06 with gan to get their squads back call on Michelle Robillard— assists from Whiddon and into prime CHA contention. allowed Megan Quinn to capi- Céline Frappier. The Syracuse University talize in a third period that saw Quinn was sent off 30 sec- Orange lit up struggling Sarah only six Orange shots, getting onds later on a cross-check- McDonnell in the second a pass from Lindsey East- ing, leading to Isbell setting period on Friday night in a 4-2 wood to put home the insur- up Samantha Fieseler on the win to hand the Lakers their ance goal with 6:10 remaining. left side at 6:08 for her first of second straight loss, but blew On Saturday, Sisti thought the season. a 3-1 third period lead on Sat- he found a change of morale The game remained dead- urday afternoon when Molly by starting surprise lead locked for the following 10 Blasen capped a third-period goaltender Jessica Convery, minutes. A late rush for the assault in a 4-3 Lakers come- but Schwarz maintained the Lakers saw Smith and Knott from-behind victory to send Orange would not change set up defenseman Molly Syracuse three games under their game plan for her. Blasen at 16:43 as she fired .500. They fought off an 8-5 shot past Miller’s shoulder for her The Lakers got off to a Hurstathletics deficit in the first to take the first tally since switching to strong start on Friday, taking Split weekend games against Syracuse University at Mercyhurst Ice Center. The Orange won lead with 1:26 left in a very No. 8 after wearing No. 12 advantage of the Orange’s Friday, 4-2, but the Lakers won Saturday, 4-3. Maggie Know scored twice Saturday. quick first. last year. second penalty of the first The Lakers did find an equal- The Lakers return to action period as Rachael Smith took 96 seconds later when peren- second penalty of the period, “I think just getting our izer at 10:28, when freshman this Friday at Houston Field- assists from Blasen and Nicole nial weapon Stephanie Grossi but Taylor Accursi was called power-play going was key Maggie Knott caught assists house in Troy, N.Y., as the Guagliardo to strike for her caught a pass from Allie for hooking at 14:41, leading today, and that power play had from Samantha Isbell and Jil- Rensselaer Polytechnic Insti- fourth of the season at 12:17. Munroe to hand the Orange to Schwarz’s second of the some good goals that won us lian Skinner, but the Orange tute welcome the Lakers to It handed McDonnell a 1-0 a lead they would never relin- game and the first power-play the game eventually,” Grossi did not let their three-period the Capital Region. lead that she would ensuingly quish. goal for the Orange, the told the Merciad after the con- shot deficit haunt them, as lose just 9½ minutes later. The They then tallied again just assists going to Jessica Sibley test. Grossi and Brooke Avery tally at 1:58 was followed just a minute after killing off their and Alysha Burriss. Just 30 seconds remained in scored 2:56 apart to send the Lakers’ men’s XC records Eighth Place ranking for best regional finish yet Mercyhurst men’s hoops “As a team, we’re super freshman year but we lost two By Bernard Garwig excited,” said senior Jake of our top seven,” said Eneix. Staff writer in D2 CCA Atlantic poll Eneix. “This was a goal we’ve “We came into this season had ever since we came to knowing that this is probably By Bernard Garwig On Nov. 5, The Mercyhurst school.” the best shot that we’ve had Staff writer men’s cross country team Eneix led the way for the throughout our three, four posted its best ever finish Lakers, finishing 22nd in the years at Mercyhurst. Everyone at the NCAA DII Atlantic 10,000 meter race with a time just came to practice every Coming into the 2016-17 Regionals. The Lakers have of 34:05. single day with the mindset season, the Meryhurst Lakers attended to the event since He was followed by a that we need to do well.” men’s basketball team ranked 2011. pack of seniors for the The team works together to eighth in the preseason poll The race, hosted in Slippery Lakers: Anthony Amroski, push each other harder every released by the Division II Rock, saw the Lakers finish- who posted a time of 34:51 day so that they can reach their Conference Commissioners ing seventh among the 22 and finished in 36th place, maximum potential when they Association Atlantic Region who competed against each Shawn Wiler, who ran a 35:27 compete. poll on Nov. 7. other at the event. The Lakers (52nd) and Chris Liatti, who In light of the season’s con- Mercyhurst received 11 posted a combined score of recorded a 35:42 (58th) on the clusion, Eneix was positive points in the poll conducted Hurstathletics 244 among the team’s top five course. Sophomore Danny in his reflection of his and by coaches. Mercyhurst men’s basketball ranked eighth in Division II Confer- runners. Dmuchowski rounded out the his other teammates’ years at West Liberty University ence Comissioners Association Athletic Region Poll On Nov. 7. Shippensburg University scoring for the Lakers with a Mercyhurst. received 60 points and six first The Lakers received 11 points. was the champion for the 36:14 time for 76th place. “It was a pleasure watching place votes to take the top Men’s 10K, scoring 41 points. Juniors Ryan Brennan and this group grow into a group spot on the poll, followed by Hale is the only return- Lock Haven University came John Harry completed the of me. It was great to watch Fairmont State (47) and Vir- I believe that any team ing starter from the previ- in second with 63 points, fol- top seven for the team, who this group really turn into ginia State (40). “ ous season. He averaged 4.5 lowed by Edinboro with 72. placed 84th and 109th respec- a team that really embodies This comes after the team can be more than what points per game and also led Lock Haven’s Monroe tively for times of 36:43 and what Mercyhurst is about,” posted a 22-9 record for the the ranking is. the team in assists with 125. Addison finished first out of 39:28 each. Eneix said. 2015-16 season, and went Hale highlighted the impor- 124 for the race with a time Eneix emphasized that this 15-7 in the conference. Senior Durrell McDonald tance of the defense this year, of 32:23. Shippensburg took year’s finish was the fruit of Last year not only marked ” coming off of a season where both second and third with his and his eldest teammates’ the first year the team was vic- the Lakers were ranked best in Kieran Sutton (32:35) and labor. torious in PSAC champion- the nation for allowing only @TheMerciad Alexandre Balla (32:50). “We had a great team our ships, but also the program’s when they take the court this 60.3 points per game. first win in the NCAA Tour- year. “I think our ranking is nament Atlantic Regional. “I think the seniors now based on our success…I think Advertisement The Lakers beat Wheeling equal up to the seniors last a lot of coaches have respect Jesuit of West Virginia 66-65, year…and the underclassman for the program,” Hale con- which was followed by a sec- that came up equal up to the cluded. ond-round loss to PSAC rival guys before them,” McDonald The Lakers’ first game of Kutztown University, 73-79. said. the season was on Nov. 11 at “I think the ranking is Other returning seniors home against Mount Aloysius pretty accurate, but rankings include Kevin Marsh, Justin College, where they beat the are just rankings. It doesn’t Senou and John Majors. Mounties 103-37. really determine who a team “Preseason has been really is,” said senior guard Durrell good for us,” said senior McDonald. “I believe that any guard H’ian Hale. “A lot of team can be more than what guys learned the defense, plays the ranking is.” … it’s all about buying in and McDonald is one of five I think up to this point every- seniors who will lead the team body’s buying in.” @TheMerciad Let’s go Lakers!

Sports Date Time

Women’s basketball Dec. 3 1 p.m.

Men’s basketball Dec. 3 3 p.m.

Women’s ice hockey Dec. 2, Dec. 3 6 p.m, 1 p.m. Page 8 The Merciad November 16, 2016 Laker Living Editor’s Choice: Fun-fiction Miranda L. Miller show host, Cecil, who gives wrote “Bedtime and Other podcast. us the news, weather, and Tales of Terror”, if that tells A podcast that I hav- Way back Copy editor other events that happen in you the quality of the work. en’t given up hope for is the his strange little town, Night Each episode brings new and Leviathan Chronicles. It’s Reading is one of my Vale. The number of epi- interesting tales from differ- recorded partially with a nar- When... favorite things to do, but sodes, associated podcasts, ent authors, which I really rator, and partially like the there are many occasions and even tours and books enjoy. The different authors events are happening in real where getting lost in a good make it a little daunting for bring a variety of strengths to time. book is completely not someone who hasn’t listened the table. The tale centers around The Merciad presents articles appropriate, like doing the since the beginning, but it’s Due to the different Macallan Orsel, a genetic dishes or driving. so worth it. Other podcasts authors with different tastes scientist who is searching from yesteryear in their origi- That’s where fiction pod- from the same producers in stories, it allows NoSleep for the cure for aging. When nal form, including headlines. casts come in handy. Don’t include Alice Isn’t Dead and to have special episodes like she meets a strange man get me wrong, there are Within the Wires, both in a a Christmas special, and of who claims to be a doctor This week, our blast from the many other kinds of podcasts similar style. course, a Halloween special. to her sick grandmother, she past is from June 1942. and every kind of podcast is I really enjoy spooky Another fantastic fiction is taken on a wild ride that beautiful in its own way, but things, so the NoSleep pod- podcast would be “The Black changes not only her life, fiction podcasts scratch an cast is perfect. Created and Tapes”. It’s a series, unlike but potentially the fate of the itch that NPR just doesn’t frequently narrated by David NoSleep. whole world. At present, it reach. If you haven’t delved Cummings, it has stories The premise is that is on hiatus, but honestly it’s Freshmen - deep in the world of fiction written for and submitted our intrepid reporter, Alex too good to pass up. podcasts, here are a few to to the NoSleep Subred- Reagan, goes and interviews If you have any review get you started. dit, which are phenomenal. people about their interest- suggestions, e-mail me at “Welcome to Night Vale” There are multiple regular ing jobs. That is, until she [email protected]! Seniors Hunt is the podcast that for me, narrators, and they make you meets Dr. Strand. Dr. Strand and many others, started a feel as if you were sitting is the head of the Strand love for audio fiction. It’s a around a campfire, listening Institute, which promises for Treasure little spooky, a little funny, to your best friend tell tall to pay $1 million to anyone a lot strange and incredibly tales all night. with unequivocal proof of entertaining, so it’s a must Many of the authors of the supernatural. Alex finds As you may have peppy instructions for anybody that enjoys fic- the stories have moved on a string of tapes that have noticed, May weather from our party lead- tion. to publishing books, like yet to be proven false, and It’s about a lovable radio Michael Whitehouse, who therein lies the story in our @TheMerciad at Mercyhurst has not ers, Fran Honeck and been altogether favor- Nan Schultz, and a able for collegiate general strain of good functions. So it was fellowship, we Frosh that on May 20, fifty were delighted to sturdy Seniors had to entertain our Seniors brave the elements in and our honored search of a treasure guests. We got a big on the occasion of “kick” out of watch- the Senior-Freshmen ing our esteemed Treasure Hunt. And, graduates-to-be try good sports that they their skill at march are, they ventured drills, potato races, forth without com- clothes-pin-in-the- plaint, later joining bottle, balloon blow- generously in cheers ing and other such for Dot Wadlinger, antics appropriate to Pat Schilling and a picnic. Lighthearted Julia Strough, who singing, laughing and finally merged victo- feasting were the rious. theme of the affair; With the exception a better spirit could of the actual Hunt, the not have prevailed picnic was of neces- had May 20 been the sity held in the gym. clearest, sunniest of Here, amidst the gay days. notes of school songs,

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