THE News ...... 2-5 Features ...... 6-9 A&E ...... 10-11 Opinion ...... 12-13 Sports ...... 14-15 Laker Living ...... 16 MerciadMERCYHURST UNIVERSITY | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11, 2018 | VOL. 91 NO. 16 Water Dance splashes into Erie PAGE 10

Online poll results

Are you ready for Advising Day?

2: Bhattacharyya talks about world Yes, I have my schedule planned! (47%) religion and ethics in health care I am a senior, so no advising. (22%) Advising Day already? (17%) No, I am never ready. (14%) 7: Football comes out on top in the annual Laker Showdown This week’s What do you think about Ryan 14: Softball’s Pierucci named Hall meal plan changes? pitcher of the week POLL merciad.mercyhurst.edu

Contributed photo PAGE 2 NEWS Wednesday, April 11, 2018

Kristian Biega photo Swasti Bhattacharyya, Ph.D., professor of Philosophy and Religion at Buena Vista University, discusses the role of world religions in health care during her April 7 lecture, “Converging Rivers: Healthcare and the Intersections of Religion, Culture, and Ethics.” Health care’s ‘Converging Rivers’

By Kristian Biega often in the medical field. For could still be relevant with today’s Staff writer example, if a Muslim man refus- health-care, technological, racial es to take insulin because it was and religious issues. On April 7, the Mercyhurst processed with pork products but “Whatever is here, on law, on Evelyn Lincoln Institute for Eth- does not make it known that this profit, on pleasure, and on Salva- ics and Society (ELIES) hosted is for religious reasons, the doc- tion, that is found elsewhere. But Swasti Bhattacharyya, Ph.D., pro- tors think that he is not cooper- what is not here is nowhere else,” fessor of Philosophy and Religion ating. she quoted. at Buena Vista University in Iowa, Another issue facing Hindu To illustrate her point, she to discuss the role of world reli- and other eastern traditions of pointed out that the stories of the gions and ethics in the health-care believers is the fear that they will Birth of the Pandavas (Kunti’s field by means of traditional sto- not be treated as well or equally in Boon) and the Birth of Kauravas rytelling. life-threatening situations due to (Gandhari’s 100 sons) both deal The ultimate goal of Bhattacha- their belief in reincarnation. with women struggling with infer- ryya’s lecture, “Converging Rivers: Bhattacharyya hopes that doc- tility, conception and pregnancy. Healthcare and the Intersections tors do not overlook these im- Kunti calls upon the help of the of Religion, Culture, and Ethics,” portant aspects of the lives of gods when she and her husband was this convergence of cultures their patients based on assump- cannot conceive and they make and understanding to create a tions. These fears for a represen- sure to provide the couple and the more positive health-care envi- tative group of practicing Hindus world just and noble children that ronment for all those involved. came to the forefront in Bhat- would ultimately help the world. To do so, she emphasized a tacharyya’s 2015-16 survey asking Gandhari gives birth to 100 em- need for not cultural competency, participants about their stances bryos of children that eventually which is learning about another on medical practices in relation become her 100 sons as promised culture to gain a mastery of the to faith. Some common concerns — a traditional look at in vitro topic, but for cultural humility were end-of-life-care issues, iden- fertilization and other forms of — learning for the sake of under- tity and family concerns, general conception. standing. emotional stress, monetary con- Bhattacharyya hoped that “Cultural humility is not a skill cerns and trusting medical staff. through these illustrations, she to be mastered, rather a way of Some also believe in the con- gives people a fuller understand- being that begins with self aware- nections to karma of the family ing of cultural humility and ness. It can open areas in your experiencing medical needs and Kristian Biega photo themselves. By first understand- mind for new ways to think of the dharma, or established righ- ing oneself, one can then better things that acknowledge the com- teousness of the world, of the Swasti Bhattacharyya used traditional Hindu storytelling to connect understand others and how their plexities of reality,” Bhattacharyya children or families playing a role wisdom of the past with ethical issues of today’s health-care system. similarities and differences can said. in the outcomes of some medical work together or become places Bhattacharyya framed the lec- procedures and care. based on this fact.” Just as the characters in the an- of conversation. ture through the lens of people The ultimate concerns about To combat these misunder- cient Mahabharata text are unique, “The current lack of conversa- practicing the Hindu faith tradi- religion in the health field comes standings, Bhattacharyya used the yet interwoven and connected to tion that is happening today has tion and their ancient stories and down to what health-care provid- five characteristics of thought, one another, so is the nature of people so involved with their own narratives. Through these stories, ers should know about their pa- starting with the idea that all hu- the world. views that they don’t listen to the she discussed the five characteris- tients’ faith. mans are interconnected at the Bhattacharyya stated that there other side. The lifelong commit- tics of Hindu thought: the under- “Don’t assume that just be- fundamental level of life. was great wisdom in texts such as ment, attitude, mode of being lying unity of life, the centrality cause we believe in reincarnation, “We ask, ‘Are all religions the the Mahabharata that present an that is committed to hearing oth- of society, dharma, multivalent we are fine with death. Family is same?’” said Bhattacharyya. “If by opportunity to open controversial ers begins with the knowledge of nature and karma. very important,” answered one that you mean the space in which conversations about religion in the ourselves,” said Bhattacharyya. “It She sought to start a conversa- participant in Bhattacharyya’s we discuss these larger questions, modern world. She emphasized allows us to let out our prejudices tion about certain stereotypes or survey. “We are afraid that health- then yes; but our answers are rad- this quote from the Mahabhara- so that we can see, assess and en- pre-judgments that happen too care providers are judging Hindus ically different.” ta to explain how an ancient text gage the person before us.”

FOLLOW THE MERCIAD ON TWITTER AT @THEMERCIAD Wednesday, April 11, 2018 NEWS PAGE 3 Erie ID collaborations to enhance small businesses By Kristian Biega Eie ID. “To make improvements “We want people to think of Staff writer and gain insights as to what your Erie as a destination for cyber business needs to be more effec- and connected services and a vi- The Erie Innovation District tive. It is a more rounded educa- brant startup community that is has announced a new collabora- tion.” focused in that area,” Sancheck tion in its efforts to breathe new Some companies receive incu- said. life into downtown Erie by means bation for one to five years in this The Erie ID also notes that lo- of improving education, technol- learning phase, but accelerators cal organizations like Mercyhurst ogy and economic opportunities. are a more concentrated program University are a key component in The district announced its that hope to give companies the the technological advancements collaboration with Singularity means to move on individually. and business and job stimulation University to create a 10-week This 10-week accelerator pro- that continues to grow over the accelerator program to help en- gram will bring together 10 com- years. trepreneurs create successful panies as one cohort to be men- “Mercyhurst has been a huge start-up businesses. In the hopes tored and trained in workshop champion for the Erie Innova- of advancing these accelerator settings from July to September. tion District in designing a lot programs, the district also has Singularity University is a Sil- a huge mentor network.” to the district to help with the ef- of its new programs that will ul- partnered with Dell EMC. icon Valley company with a As the age of interconnect- ficiency of the projects. timately come out of the district Mercyhurst is a partner in Erie long-standing reputation for cre- edness through technology only The companies that Sancheck as jobs,” said Sancheck. “The stu- Innovation District, or Erie ID ating a future in high-end tech- grows, Erie ID’s intentions with and his team are seeking to par- dents Mercyhurst graduates each for short. nologies such as artificial intelli- the accelerator and partnerships ticipate in the accelerator are year are the exact kind of people The role of the Erie ID acceler- gence. Sancheck’s goal is to turn are to improve cyber security in startup businesses that already we are looking for for these types ators is to sponsor and encourage Erie’s “rust-belt” reputation into connected products, devices and have a prototype and proof of of jobs.” business and technology startups a place of competitive cyber and systems across the country. This concept as well as an initial test Sancheck is hopeful that these to create more job opportunities data services. involves looking into the current market or customer in mind as a new opportunities with Dell and for the people of Erie. An accel- “It is exciting for Erie to have state of products and finding means of evaluating the effective- the accelerator program are a step erator program is a faster way to this collaboration,” said San- the strengths and weaknesses of ness of the product or service. forward for technology and inno- help foster this growth of busi- check. “The dual marketing re- these products and ways to re- There is also preference given vation in Erie. nesses through hands-on guid- lease of the accelerator program duce future security risks. to those businesses that have a “This partnership is a means ance and resources. in Erie and throughout branding The sponsorship from Dell desire to make Erie their home for companies working in that “The intention behind these ac- and research in Silicon Valley will that began in October 2017 will market for development and space to get products and ser- celerators is for businesses to go have a global outreach effect. It bring competitive new software, business so as to continue to vices brought to market. It has in and then graduate,” said Karl will provide experience, knowl- development, a clean workspace grow the city’s job opportunities profound implications for the fu- Sancheck, chief executive of the edge of advances technology and and Cloud publishing capabilities and economy. ture,” Sancheck said. Mass of Thanksgiving Earth week to honor the Sisters at Mercyhurst By Elizabeth Shewan ing support of the institution Staff writer The Spring from its inception,” said Pisz- By Marina Boyle educators confront critical water is- ker. Staff writer sues facing the United States, with The Sisters of Mercy are a Mass of The Mass of Thanksgiving performances that call for action. diverse and dynamic group of “ was the answer to establishing The Sustainability Club has be- Earth Week offers an extensive Thanksgiving is women that have been the true a tradition of hosting a prayer- gun creating the agenda for Earth list of other activities to engage the driving force behind Mer- our opportunity ful gathering in the spring, and Week 2018, with an array of activ- students from all departments. cyhurst since its conception. to come together honoring the Sisters of Mercy ities available for Lakers to get in- Lois Gibbs will deliver the 17th To honor all of the Sisters of as a whole. volved. Earth Week will run April Annual Sister Maura Smith Earth Mercy and their contributions as a community It is also an opportunity to 22-28, with collaboration from Day Lecture on April 23 in Taylor to the university, Mercyhurst and honor honor Sister Lisa Mary Mc- many different departments and Little Theatre. Her presentation will host a Spring Mass of Cartney’s many years of ded- clubs on campus. will discuss “Love Canal 40 Years Thanksgiving on April 16 at 3 the vision and ication to Mercyhurst. She is The club is collecting empty Later: What Have We Learned and p.m. in Christ the King Chapel. inspiration of the the current vice president for plastic bottles for a repurposing Where Do We Go from Here?” “All that we have been, all mission integration, but she is activity. They plan to use the plastic The lecture is presented by the that we are, and all that we will Sisters.” stepping down from full time bottles as pots for plants, and will Charlene M. Tanner Speaker Series be, we owe to them. The Spring President work this year. conduct an herb-growing activity and co-sponsored by the Mercy- Mass of Thanksgiving is our Michael T. Victor “We don’t know exactly what with students on April 26. hurst Sustainability Office and the opportunity to come together this will look like in future This refurbishing project will Evelyn Lincoln Institute for Ethics as a community and honor the years,” said Greg Baker, Ph.D, help to eliminate some of the 50 and Society. vision and inspiration of the at least since I have been here,” director of Campus Ministry, billion plastic bottles that Amer- April 23 will involve a green eat- Sisters,” said President Michael said the Rev. James Piszker, “And it may not even be a Mass icans throw away each year. Any- ing event with vegan snacks in the Victor in a press release about Mercyhurst University chap- every year, but we’re looking at one can bring empty, rinsed, plastic Zurn and Hirt lobbies. April 24 the upcoming mass. lain. doing some kind of prayerful bottles and put them in the bin will bring a recycling and compost- Bishop Lawrence Persico, of The Mass of the Holy Spirit gathering every spring where outside of Zurn 215. Alternative- ing event to the Student Union, the Catholic Diocese of Erie, in September is a way to wel- we really focus in on this Mer- ly, Sarah Bennett, Sustainability with tote bags being handed out. will preside over the Mass, and come students in faith and cy tradition and what it means Coordinator, can be contacted to On April 25, MSG will hand out the Sisters of Mercy will serve community each year, but for us now, for students, for arrange a pickup. Mercyhurst reusable water bottles as readers, Eucharistic minis- there was no similar event to employees. You don’t have to In addition, the Sustainabili- at the filling stations across campus ters and gift bearers. close the school year. be a sister to be caring for this ty Club is involved in hosting the to cut down on our plastic bottle “While there have been cel- “This Mass of Thanksgiving tradition.” National Water Dance on April 14 waste, and will also host a “Trash- ebrations that have coincided was conceived as a bookend Students, faculty and staff at Dobbins Landing and the Erie ion Show” in the SU that evening. with Mercy Day and Founda- event to the Mass of the Holy are all encouraged to come to Maritime Museum. This is a fu- Finally, following the SpringFest tion Day, I believe that this cel- Spirit. It was an opportunity to the Mass of Thanksgiving as sion of arts and science promoting celebrations on April 27, a morn- ebration is somewhat unique honor the Sisters of Mercy for well as attend the reception af- water conservation issues. The art- ing ‘Great Campus Cleanup’ will in the history of Mercyhurst, their vision and uncompromis- terward. ist-driven collective of dancers and take place from 10 a.m. to noon. PAGE 4 NEWS Wednesday, April 11, 2018

MerciadIN A MINUTE Housing Deadlines Selections for 2018- 19 housing begin this week for those living on campus. •Townhouse selections will be April 12 at 2 p.m. •Ryan Hall selections will be April 17 at 2 p.m. •Sophomore selections will be April 19 at 2 p.m. •Upperclassmen selections will be April 25 at 2 p.m. •Selections for any student who does not have a housing assignment will be April 26 at 2 p.m. Marina Boyle photo

BSU to hold Seniors Emma Preston and Mary Bogdanovicz offer those attending the Mercyhurst Wellness Fair a free stress ball, a chance to make a craft semi-formal and a selection of healthy baked goods. Come celebrate the representation, success and diversity of this past year with Mercyhurst's Black Students for Unity Dimensions of well-being Club. A semi-formal By Marina Boyle dance will be held in the Staff writer Student Union Great Room on April 22 at 3 The Mercyhurst Wellness Fair p.m. is an annual event organized by Tickets cost $3 for various campus departments and one ticket or $5 for two RCSOs to focus on the seven tickets. Semi-formal dimensions of well-being that orange and/or black contribute to our happiness and attire is preferred. Email self-care. bwarre74@mercyhurst. The event this year took place edu for reservations. on April 6 in the Mercyhurst Athletic Center from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Rest up during The Wellness Fair provides Sabbath Week students with massages, free April 9-13 is Sabbath giveaways, raffles, therapy dogs, Week in Campus Ministry. healthy snacks and much more. This means that there However, the event’s most im- will be no Catholic portant aim is to arm students Devotions, Wednesday with the tools they need to make Night Fellowship, or Bible a positive impact and on their Study. health, by taking what they learn Sabbath Week and applying it in everyday life. encourages rest and The interdisciplinary approach Marina Boyle photo rejuvenation to help and collaboration of the Cam- pus Involvement Center, Cohen students finish the spring Andrea Obert, Learning Differences coordinator, and Nathan Nitczynski, academic counselor, help pass semester strong. Health Center, clubs, societies out glitter relaxation jars that were available at the Wellness Fair. and others at this event connects student life with academics. The you join together with friends Steph Przepiora, Leadership ferent components of wellness. $2,300 raised core focus is on the seven dimen- and organizations that are inter- and Outreach Coordinator, has Physical health awareness is at Showdown sions of well-being — environ- ested in the same thing.” been involved in overseeing the provided by screenings, activities, mental, emotional, mental, occu- The event began 14 years ago event. materials and demonstrations, The football team was pational, physical, spiritual and and has been run in various ca- “The Wellness Fair is benefi- and the event also encourages not the only winner at last social health. pacities since, as a fair, a day or cial to students by giving them the connection of participants week’s Laker Showdown: “The Wellness Fair is a great a weeklong event. Originally be- a chance to have some fun in with campus resources that can The Mercyhurst Student- opportunity for the whole cam- ginning with the idea of celebrat- the middle of the day at an of- lead them to wholeness and well- Athlete Advisory Board pus community to have fun try- ing women during women’s his- ten stressful time of year,” said being. helped to raise $2,300 ing out healthy foods and a wide tory month, it has since evolved Przepiora. “They can learn about “I loved the positive message for the Make-a-Wish range of activities,” said Judy to reaching out to all members some healthy habits, which they and reassuring nature of this Foundation from ticket Smith, director for Health & of the campus community. can incorporate into their own event,” said freshman Intelli- sales, raffles and an Counseling Centers. “We can all Activities this year included lives, from their peers, who show gence Studies major Michelle auction at the event. add a little more self-care into the tables hosted by campus offices, them that it is possible to take Benedetti. “The relaxing and This donation will day. My hope is that people take Taste or Waist food sampling, a steps toward a healthy lifestyle as enjoyable experience gave me a help grant the wishes of knowledge and motivation with labyrinth, physical assessments a college student.” timeout from my busy schedule children fighting life- them to build healthy habits and and crafts, all related to a healthy Even though the Wellness Fair to care for me and my needs, as threatening medical decreases stress. lifestyle. The raffle also gave stu- only happens once a year, it pro- we all should. I got a lot of tips conditions. Smith recommended that stu- dents a chance to win a Fitbit, motes healthy living through- relating to stress, and especially Have a news tip for Merciad dents “start simple and recognize yoga pack, aroma diffuser and out each semester by presenting loved making the glitter relax- In a Minute? Send an email to that it is always more fun when much more. knowledge about the many dif- ation jars.” [email protected] FOLLOW THE MERCIAD ON TWITTER AT @THEMERCIAD Wednesday, April 11, 2018 NEWS PAGE 5 Forensics aids in STUDENT GOVERNMENT NPR skeleton search Family weekend By Amber Matha “There’s a lot of information Using a database that compares campus events Editor in Chief that can be told from the skele- the structure of the skull to other ton,” Dirkmaat said in the NPR skulls from particular regions, the On March 20, Skunk Bear, a video. research team determined that science show hosted by National Dirkmaat, with the help of the skeleton was probably Asian Public Radio, posted an episode graduate students, took mea- in ancestry. of the show titled “Classroom surements of the various bones Nadworny was grateful for the Skeleton: Whose Bones Are of the skeleton in order to make assistance that the Mercyhurst These?” predictions about the person the Forensic Anthropology program The episode was about a real skeleton belonged to. was able to provide. human skeleton that was found First, the sex of the skeleton “They provided key details to at a local high school, Northwest was determined by looking at us about our skeleton. They also Pennsylvania Collegiate Acade- the pelvis of the skeleton. This is kick-started our discovery pro- my. a good place to start in forensic cess, helping us figure out what Kim Leasure, an art teacher at anthropology in sex identification questions to ask and where to go the school, has housed the skele- because females have a broader next,” Nadworny said. ton in her room for years. pelvis opening, which allows for She was also excited to show “I also have a human skull in childbirth. off her hometown to not only my room as well. They are used The pelvis was inconclusive so her co-workers but to all of to draw, paint and form from, they looked at other features of NPR’s viewers. Nadworny spent rendering the human form,” Lea- the skeleton, mostly on the skull. a lot of time at Mercyhurst as a sure said. For example, the mastoid process girl. Adam Cole, Skunk Bear host, was analyzed to better confirm “I grew up just down the road and Elissa Nadworny, fellow the sex of the skeleton. from the college. I’ve skated at NPR employee and Collegiate Unlike what the staff at Col- the Ice Center, used the indoor Academy grad, took the bones to legiate Academy thought, Dirk- rowing tanks, spent summers the Smithsonian Institution Na- maat and this team of investiga- riding my bike through campus, tional Museum of Natural His- tors determined that the sex of took piano lessons after school tory, where they found out that the skeleton was female. and hit up the Wednesday night the costs associated with getting To determine age, they looked films in Mary D’Angelo with my a DNA sample taken from bones at fused bones. high school friends,” Nadworny are about $5,000. “We’re born with about 300 said. Thus, they took the bones to separate bones,” said Cole in the Andrea Ost, a second-year Fo- Mercyhurst University to be an- video. “By around the time we rensic Anthropology graduate alyzed by the Applied Forensic hit 40, we only have 206.” student, appreciates the experi- Sciences department. There was a line in the end of ence that NPR brought to Mer- On Saturday there will be a “We’d heard about the forensic clavicle, the collar bone, that told cyhurst. anthropology program and saw Dirkmaat and his team that the “While studies of this kind Scavenger Hunt starting at Dennis Dirkmaat in a few skel- bone was in the process of fus- can give forensic anthropologists eton videos on YouTube,” said ing at the time of the woman’s information that can help us im- 2 p.m. in the Student Union Nadworny. “It’s also right down death. Dirkmaat determined that prove our methodologies, it also the street from Collegiate — so it her age was somewhere between ultimately helps to tell the stories was pretty convenient.” 20 and 30. of unidentified individuals,” said Great Room. Later that night, They asked Dirkmaat, Ph.D., The researchers determined Ost. “Having the chance to work chair of the Applied Forensic Sci- from the long bones of the skel- on this case for NPR has been a at 8 p.m., Taylor Matthews will ences department, to analyze the eton that the woman was about 5 valuable experience and wouldn’t bones to help determine the skele- feet 2 inches tall at the time that have been possible without the be performing in the Student ton’s sex, age, height and ancestry. she died. program at Mercyhurst.” Union.

Erie Police Department Don’t forget! MSG Senate applications are due April 18 partners with Mercyhurst by noon. Voting will take place By Rebecca Dunphy Previously, police officers iff ’s Department, among others. from April 24 to 26. Staff writer were required to complete a sep- Applications for the next arate exam to work for the City round of testing will be available On March 22, Erie Mayor Joe of Erie. this month with both written Schember announced that the However, with this change, and physical testing being per- City of Erie will be partnering prospective officers must only formed on Aug. 4. with Mercyhurst University to complete Civil Service Act 120 Mayor Schember is hopeful simplify the police testing pro- training, which will qualify them that employing this version of cess for the Erie Bureau of Po- for 26 departments throughout testing will allow for more di- MERCYHURST CAMPUS lice. the region for only $75. verse candidates, while also sav- Erie City Council unanimous- The testing can be completed ing time, money and resources. ly approved the testing change at at the Northwest Pennsylvania This testing will be offered each its meeting on April 4. Regional Police Testing Con- year instead of every two years CRIME LOG “We’re proud to partner with sortium — Mercyhurst’s Public like the old testing. Mercyhurst to administer testing Safety Institute and Municipal City officials believe the March 22: Harassment in the Athletic Center. for new police candidates. Ul- Police Training Academy. change will save the city an es- timately, the city will save time Created in 2014, the consor- timated $5,000 that can be used March 24: Drug paraphernalia on Briggs Avenue. and money that can be used to tium handles police testing for towards minority recruitment, a focus on minority recruitment,” Millcreek Township, City of Cor- cause that both Schember and March 27: Harassment on Briggs Avenue. Schember said in a Mercyhurst ry and Meadville police depart- Erie Police Chief Dan Spizarny University news release. ment and the Erie County Sher- find important. April 5: Theft in Zurn Hall.

FOLLOW THE MERCIAD ON TWITTER AT @THEMERCIAD PAGE 6 FEATURES Wednesday, April 11, 2018 Ask Mia Students approve Anyone have a problem that SpringFest artists they need help fixing? Ask for Mia’s advice at: [email protected] By Jordan Pendel and Rob Resnick as the producer. that is something I really wanted Staff writer Their sound is a mix of pop and to focus on.” EDM, producing hip-hop, rap This was a particularly import- ******************* SpringFest is the last big event and pop tracks. The band has re- ant aspect for the selection of this of the semester, allowing students leased music under Epic Records year’s SpringFest artist due to the Dear Mia, to take a break from schoolwork and Island Records. controversy that last year’s per- and have some fun while listening John Harry, senior Criminal former, Mike Stud, had caused. to live music. SpringFest is back Justice major, is looking forward “We definitely thought about I am appalled that nobody seems to on April 27, with Timeflies and to hearing Timeflies at Springfest. last year when picking our artists,” sell peanut butter popsicles. This DJ Drama as this year’s perform- “I’m super excited for them to said Knappenberger. “We would could change everything. I have been ers. come to Mercyhurst. They are never want to offend anyone on “SpringFest is a great way to one of my favorite groups to lis- campus, and we believe DJ Dra- dreaming about this idea ever since just forget about the stress of the ten to because they can do differ- ma and Timeflies will resonate I first laid eyes on peanut butter. semester and upcoming finals,” ent kinds of music,” Harry said. well with everyone.” Peanut butter ice cream exists, and said Mickaela Zaffino, junior Psy- DJ Drama is a hip-hop DJ and Students seem to be happy is one of the most delicious treats chology major. “You can hang producer from Philadelphia. He about the artist selection and are out, party, dance and just have a is best known for his mix-tapes, excited for SpringFest this year. on the planet. It is impossible to good time.” most notably for Gangsta Grillz. Maddie Castele, senior Public go wrong with any sort of frozen Last semester, students had He is currently on the Artist and Health major, is one such student. peanut butter snack, unless you the opportunity to vote for their Repertoire team for Atlantic Re- “I like the artist. I think they’re have an allergy. I am lucky enough favorite genre of music, allowing cords. pretty good,” said Castele. “I have students to have the opportunity “The process for picking Time- two of their songs already.” to not have a peanut butter allergy, to give input into the artist choice. flies and DJ Drama actually hap- Ticket distribution for under- and I consume, on average, 1.5 jars The winning genre was pop. pened fairly quickly,” Knappen- graduates begins April 18 and per week. Perhaps I should start my Lucy Knappenberger, junior berger said. goes until April 20. Tickets for own business selling peanut butter Hospitality Management major MSG received a list of roughly graduate students, adult students, and MSG Events Coordinator, 30 artists to pick from, all within faculty, staff and others within popsicles. I am convinced, however, wanted to bring in an artist who the genre of pop. The student the Mercyhurst community will that stores should begin carrying would vibe well with the stu- representatives were then able to be sold on April 23. Remaining this flavor. How can I make this dents. listen to the top songs from each tickets will be available for guests happen, Mia? “I want everyone to come and artist, narrowing down the selec- on April 24. feel comfortable with who is up tion. All tickets are going to be dis- on stage,” Knappenberger said. “Timeflies really stood out to tributed to students in the Student Sincerely, The Timeflies duo formed in me because all of their songs Union, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2010 after meeting at a party at are fun and upbeat,” said Knap- 4 to 6 p.m. each day. Limited tick- Nutalie Tufts University. The group con- penberger. “They don’t have any ets are available, and a Mercyhurst sists of Cal Shapiro on vocals profanity within their songs, and ID is required to get one.

Dear Nutalie, How to: Eat healthy, It’s such a shame that no one sells peanut butter popsicles especially since it is such a yummy spread. home-cooked meals So, I think you should definitely make your own popsicles! It’s By Elizabeth Shewan and versatile. In my experience, all Onions and bell peppers are pretty easy to make them as well. Staff writer manner of meals can be made if also good vegetables to have All you have to do is Google peanut you have a few basic ingredients: around for your daily servings of Every student knows that pre- milk, eggs, tortillas and chicken vegetables. Bell peppers are good butter popsicles and you’ll get paring, and even eating, food can breasts. for snacking on raw, and onions tons of easy-to-make recipes. Just be a challenge throughout college. I’m a big fan of chicken. It’s and peppers both can be added go through a few and find the one Most of us have time and money relatively cheap, filling and easy to a lot of other foods for extra you like the most. Or go through constraints that limit variety and to prepare. It can be kept in the flavoring and a serving of vegeta- complexity in our food choices. freezer until you’re ready to pre- bles. a bunch and try all the different Meal plans, of course, are great, pare it, so you can buy well in ad- Eggs make for good breakfasts recipes! But be careful of a brain but for students who live off-cam- vance and there are multitudes of or snacks, and could also be eat- freeze, though. Getting stores to pus or want to cut costs, cooking ways to cook it. en on a tortilla or added to ra- sell them is more of a difficult at home can be a good option, I often mix it with condensed men. They are also really cheap. giving an easier and healthier way mushroom soup and eat it on a I recently bought 18 eggs for less task. Perhaps you could begin by to introduce variety into meals tortilla, which allows me to take than $3 at Walmart. creating a petition around campus and tailor them to your own, indi- my food on the go, and if I’m Of course, your tastes may vary to encourage the Laker and the vidual tastes. careful, avoid needing to wash from mine, in which case you can Grotto Commons to begin carrying But, of course, students are in- additional dishes. I keep it in the substitute my favorites for some- famously busy, and it can be dif- fridge for up to a week or, if I’m thing comparable. The point is peanut butter popsicles. That may ficult to find the time to shop for going to have it for longer, move to make what you like. Preparing give some momentum to your goal groceries, prepare food, sit down it to the freezer. food in advance can be a great for popularizing these delicious for a full meal and then clean up For those who, for whatever time-saver. And there are many treats. afterward. We all know that it reason, want to avoid chicken, my simple recipes readily available would be good for us, but how to vegetarian roommate tells me that online, so even for those who do it? broccoli makes a good substitute have never cooked, it’s possible. I’m far from an expert, but I in a lot of recipes. Frozen brocco- So, with some preparation, Sincerely, figured out a few ways to cook li is just as easy to keep and nearly cooking at home can ultimately for myself while being conscious as versatile. be a time and money saver, as well of time and money. The key is to Squash can also provide a deli- as allow you to cater to your own Mia choose ingredients that are filling cious substitute for meat or pasta. tastes. FOLLOW THE MERCIAD ON TWITTER AT @THEMERCIAD Wednesday, April 11, 2018 FEATURES PAGE 7

Contributed photo

The football team was very excited to take first place with their rendition of SpongeBob and Boys in Motion. Laker sports show down By Rebecca Dunphy sentative Jan Stork, about a young experience, one that I’ll always re- Staff writer boy with a traumatic brain injury member.” who, through funding from the The women’s water polo team Mercyhurst sports teams foundation, was able to meet his came in second with an excerpt danced, sang and performed for a idol, John Cena. Because of this from “Pitch Perfect,” followed by packed theater on April 5 at the experience, he had the strength to an unexplainable performance by annual Laker Showdown. continue fighting and eventually the wrestling team. The fundraising event, bene- learn to walk. This inspiration- Overall, Tyillian considers this fiting Make-A-Wish Foundation, al story helped give a purpose to event very successful. was a culmination of months of all that was done that night for “As long as we raise money for hard work from the Laker Show- Make-A-Wish. Make-A-Wish, that is all that mat- down committee. “Because of what you do, ters,” Tyillian said. “Every little bit The committee held month- they’ll be able to get better, live that we can give them helps tre- ly meetings since the beginning better and have a more normal mendously. No child should have of the year, where they decided life,” said Stork. to go through what they do, and on dates, participants, judges and After Stork’s speech ended, since we can’t control what God sponsors. The group operated un- MC Adisa Branch, senior Athlet- has planned, the least we can do is der committee chair Chloe Tyil- ic Training major, introduced the give them the wish they deserve.” lian, junior Marketing major, with acts, beginning with performanc- Tretinik shared similar senti- extra help from the Student Ath- es by women’s lacrosse, women’s ments. letic Advisory Board president soccer, men’s ice hockey, women’s “The best part of the night Amanda Frappolli, senior Public basketball and cross country. was the money we raised for the Health and Psychology double Halfway through the show, the Make-A-Wish foundation,” Tre- major, and secretary Kelsey Soom, Mercyhurst Dance Team gave Contributed photo tinik said. senior Political Science major. their final performance of the Although the Showdown has “They honestly helped me stay year. Although they did not com- The Laker Showdown was the result of an incredible amount of hard come and gone, there is still anoth- sane because the two weeks lead- pete, they entertained the audi- work done by the committee over the past several months. er opportunity to help the students ing up to the event were abso- ence with their piece set to the meet their goal of $5,200 for Make- lutely insane. We managed to pull T-Pain song “Church.” and I cannot be more thankful for vice president for Student Life, A-Wish. If this goal is met, $5,000 it off, with only a few mistakes Also during intermission, a that and for Lauren Packer Web- voted on their favorite perfor- will be donated by the NCAA, along the way, but in the end it number of items were auctioned ster donating them to us.” mances of the night. which will qualify Mercyhurst to turned out just as we hoped,” said off, including Bose headphones The second half of the night The football team won first have a Make-A-Wish reveal come Tyillian. “I am very grateful for donated by Borden Perlman, the featured performances by wres- place with their excerpt from to the school and explain how the the people who helped sponsor, athletes’ secondary insurance tling, women’s hockey, football, SpongeBob and Boys in Motion. donated money will be used. donate and create this event with company, and a number of athlet- volleyball and women’s water “It was an incredible experience Students are invited to come me. I could not have done it with- ic banners. polo, finally ending with the pre- to feel the exciting atmosphere of out to Rivals Grant Wish this up- out them.” “We didn’t think the banners sentation of awards. the crowd and watch as it moti- coming weekend, an event part- The event was certainly en- were going to go for as much Judges, including Ryan Rieme- vated us to perform how we did,” nered with Gannon to raise even joyed by students, with laughs and as they did, and I was so excited dio, assistant football coach; Andy said football player Jacob Tretinik, more money. cheers heard throughout the PAC. when I heard the numbers be- Simon, head Athletic Trainer; Di- sophomore Biology major. “It “I really hope as many people The night began with a short ing yelled out,” said Tyillian. “It ane Farrell, police officer; Terry made winning the competition or more show up to that event as story from Make-A-Wish repre- helped us reach our goal of $2,800 from the Laker; and Laura Zirkle, with the team a truly memorable well,” said Tyillian.

FOLLOW THE MERCIAD ON TWITTER AT @THEMERCIAD PAGE 8 FEATURES Wednesday, April 11, 2018 In memory of LAKER MOMENT Rwanda: ‘It should never happen again to anyone’ By Abigail Rinard Features editor

Humanity often tries to ignore and deny tragedy, opting instead for denial, burying the wounds until there is little memory left. This has not, however, been the path of a small landlocked country in east-central Af- rica. In April, 24 years ago, Rwanda entered a brutal genocide, during which approx- imately 800,000 Tutsi and moderate Hutu civilians were killed in 100 days. It began on April 6, 1994, when a plane carrying Abigail Rinard photo the presidents of Rwanda and Burundi was shot down. Senior Class Gift Committee chair Lynne Gillott has been selling shirts in the Bookstore for the Spring Bar Crawl. The international community stood by, watching in horror, as the country was torn apart by the extreme violence. The Spring Bar Crawl is a highly anticipated event, particularly for Fabrice Ngabo, junior Finance and Ac- Sign up for graduating seniors. This year’s bar crawl will take place on May 5. The counting double major, lived through the Senior Class Gift Committee is trying to get 60 percent participation of aftermath of the genocide. the Spring the senior class, and the money for bar crawl shirts will go toward the “Well, I was not alive during the geno- cide, but I learned the tragic stories about Bar Crawl Senior Class Gift. my relatives,” said Ngabo. “My dad lost his siblings and parents and so did my mom. Living in the aftermath of the genocide, I learned to cherish every moment as it comes. Violence does nothing but tear a country down, but, as we remember the genocide against the Tutsi, we can all unite over the fact that it should never happen Apply now for 2019 again to anyone, anywhere.” Ngaboyisonga Igor, ’17, also grew up in post-genocide Rwanda. “My paternal grandfather was killed senior gift committee during the genocide, along with my grand- mother and their eldest son,” said Igor. By Marina Boyle on even as Mercyhurst changes with the plying to be on the committee for the “His house was burned to the ground. His Staff writer times.” Class of 2019. body was never recovered. It is as if they The Class of 2018 has a goal of $12,000 “On top of meeting some really amaz- existed one day, and the next day it was like A Senior Class Gift is a long-held Mer- for the scholarship. Lev Kubiak, Mercy- ing people, you get to raise money for the they never existed at all. Not even a single cyhurst tradition in which a senior com- hurst Board of Trustees member, has gift and participate in events that brings photograph of my grandfather remains. mittee runs fundraising efforts to allow offered to match the class’s efforts up to the senior class together before we gradu- Sadly, many other Tutsis suffered the same the graduating class to give back to their $10,000, meaning that the gift will poten- ate from Mercyhurst,” Shinhearl said. fate, buried in mass graves, and disappeared alma mater as their time there draws to a tially be $22,000 when presented at the There are many reasons to be a part without a trace.” close. end of the year. of the committee, many of which were Rwanda has recovered substantially, eco- The 2018 Mercyhurst Class Gift Com- “The Senior Class Gift Committee has voiced by Gillott. nomically and socially, but that progress mittee is being led by seniors Lynne Gil- been such a great group to work with” “Joining the Senior Class Gift Commit- comes from the commitment of Rwandans lott, Sports Medicine major; Austin Shin- said adviser Lindsay Frank, director of tee was one of the best decisions I have to remembering the genocide. hearl, Hospitality Management major; Alumni Engagement. “They have worked made here at Mercyhurst,” said Gillott. “It Peace and reconciliation in Rwanda has Cole Lowe, Spanish Education major; and so hard this year not only to raise funds, has helped me to grow both professional- been a difficult process. Because so many Natalie Koons, Biology and Dance dou- but to truly promote the idea of a schol- ly and personally, all while giving back to participated in the genocide, it was impos- ble major, to provide Mercyhurst with an arship as a Senior Gift. Since we made the the place we have all called home for four sible to incarcerate all of them. As a re- ongoing gift of the Sister Lisa Mary Mc- change, they have put their hearts into be- wonderful years.” sult, the Gacaca courts were formed, and Cartney Class of 2018 Scholarship. This lieving and showing why it is so important Morgan Wangler, senior Early Child- offered genocide victims and perpetrators scholarship is a monetary fund that will for the Class of 2018 to pay it forward for hood and Special Education double ma- alike a chance to meet, voice their grievanc- provide up aid to deserving students who other Lakers.” jor, highly recommends the experience. es and apologies in an open and honest way meet the committee’s criteria of an out- Students wishing to get involved can “The senior class gift committee has that allowed healing to begin. standing Laker. make a one-time donation of any amount, been such a fun experience,” said Wangler. That process of healing continues to this Past senior gifts have included various or a monthly gift that will reach $100 total. “I’ve made some great memories with a day. April represents a time of mourning stained-glass windows across campus, the Lowe, the senior class gift committee wonderful group of people while work- for Rwanda, for the extreme loss of life Sr. Damien spirit bell and renovations to marketing chair, said that the gift means a ing towards a common goal: to provide a and tragedy that occurred. But it is also a the Grotto and Great Room. This is the lot to him on a personal level. future student with some financial assis- time of celebration and remembrance — to first year where a scholarship will be giv- “I grew up in rural poverty in a sin- tance in their time here at Mercyhurst. I acknowledge the growth since 1994 and to en by the graduating class, starting a new gle-parent household, so I know how tight would recommend joining the committee celebrate the lives that were lost. It is only tradition of “paying it forward.” The idea money can be, and also that education is to anyone. Its a great way to help leave by remembering that Rwandans can contin- of a scholarship was raised by President the ticket out,” said Lowe. “If I can be a your mark at Mercyhurst. It’s a decision I ue to heal. Michael T. Victor earlier this year. part of giving someone that ticket, then I would definitely make again.” “During this week of mourning, we re- “Reluctant at first, we asked for more certainly have carpe-ed that diem. Mercy Interested students can fill out applica- member them. We remind history of their information to understand how this really is about giving of oneself, and ev- tions online, to be submitted by April 15. existence,” said Igor. “Should we fail to would benefit the university as compared ery little donation makes a huge difference “It is both rewarding and uplifting to keep their memory alive, the masterminds to a physical gift,” said Gillott. “After a in the lives of others for years to come. see the progress of the gift and to know of their demise would be vindicated. For good conversation, we know that this We are not investing in an object that is that we, as a committee, are changing the we would be telling the world that the ar- scholarship will stand forever despite any physically beautiful, but in the beauty of a life of a future Laker without them even chitects of their disappearance succeeded in renovations or expansion of our campus. person’s intelligence.” knowing it yet. I love this committee and removing them from the content of human We will always know that this gift is living Rising seniors can get involved by ap- I believe others would too,” Gillott said. history.” Wednesday, April 11, 2018 FEATURES PAGE 9 Jensen to serve students as VP By Rebecca Dunphy “What MSG comes down to is Staff writer service, and all the members work for the students, so I wanted to Sophomore Intelligence Stud- make sure that students under- ies and Political Science double stood their power to make change major Sophia Jensen, is heavily happen on the campus through involved in Mercyhurst Student the election of the president and Government, and during the vice president, and now the sena- 2018-19 school year, she will be tors,” Jensen said. taking on an even larger role as Jensen will be serving along- MSG vice president. side MSG President-elect Vin- “I am honored that I get to be cent Marrazzo, junior Intel- such a big part of understanding ligence Studies, Information and representing student voices Technology and International on campus, and work to make Relations triple major, while changes that will benefit current managing the larger Senate. Her and future students,” Jensen said. other responsibilities will include Jensen was elected by students running biweekly meetings, ar- at the end of February. Despite ranging tabling times, organizing running unopposed, she focused MSG presence, serving on the much of her campaign on the University Council Committee, power and importance of voting and generally supporting the or- for the best candidate. ganization. “While I spoke about my plans “I get to do a lot of behind- to increase support for RSCOs, the-scenes work, helping to make increase relationships with other ideas into plans and put plans into colleges in the area and increase action,” Jensen said. MSG and administration trans- As for future plans, Jensen parency, I truly wanted students hopes to cultivate a larger col- to vote for who they thought legiate community by strength- would do the best job represent- ening Mercyhurst’s relationship ing them and making decisions,” with its neighboring colleges. She Jensen said. expects this to start on a smaller Jensen emphasized how im- scale within the student govern- Contributed photo portant it is for students to realize ment, eventually spreading to they can make changes on cam- similar clubs and the general stu- Sophia Jensen will take her place as the MSG vice president in Fall 2018, and is excited for the pus. dent body. opportunity to serve the Mercyhurst community. Learning to rise above it all By Marina Boyle but I thought once they got to to shape my character. I had to Staff writer know me, that would fall off their rise above it. When they said, ‘no shoulders a bit. Unfortunately, clubs,’ I had to rise above it. When Carlotta Walls LaNier is an au- some students made it their job to they told me, ‘no sports,’ I had to thor, speaker and civil rights leg- make life miserable for us.” rise above it. When the threat of end, most well known for her While LaNier clung to the op- violence loomed, I had to rise graduation from Central High portunities she could gain from above it.” School, in Little Rock, Arkansas, education, the governor made the In terms of the many civil rights as the youngest of the Little Rock decision in 1958 to close all the achievements of the 1950s and Nine. Speaking as part of the schools in the county. To prevent 60s, the Little Rock Nine were a Charlene M. Tanner Speaker Se- any integration, he left 38,000 driving force. While not the first ries, LaNier shared her story with students, black and white, with group to integrate, the story of students and the public on April 3. nowhere to go. Only one of the the Little Rock Nine was like no As the first black woman to Little Rock Nine had graduated, other. graduate from the white-only and the others could do nothing In later years LaNier was award- Central High School, LaNier gave but continue schooling elsewhere ed the prestigious Spingarn Medal the audience a message of hope, as the case went through the fed- by the NAACP, was an honored answering the question: “What eral courts. LaNier was finally able guest at the inauguration of Pres- can we do in these times to ad- to return to school in 1959, along ident Barack Obama and has vance diversity?” with four other black students, to served as president of the Little Beginning with a story of the complete her senior year. Rock Nine Foundation. late Martin Luther King Jr., LaNi- Even with this legal success, La- Her two main lessons learned in er retold his message of compas- Nier faced far greater challenges her high school years were: “Hang sion, education and nonviolence in her final year, with the bomb- in there, and trust yourself and on the 50th anniversary of his ing of her home in 1960 and the your instincts first.” death. Recalling her first meet- increased restrictions on her edu- LaNier closed her talk by calling ing with him when she was 14 Marina Boyle photos cation by the school’s administra- for love and compassion. years old, she described him as a tion. When asked if she planned “I had all this because nine young minister eating barbecue Seniors Jonah Jackson and Emmanuel McDowell, along with other to return to Central High follow- white men in the Supreme Court and drinking beer, unaware of the students, were excited to meet and speak with Carlotta Walls LaNier. ing the bombing of her home, a said we had the right,” said LaNi- man he would become. young LaNier recalled telling the er. With Number 45 (President To answer her question of how LaNier grew up in the Jim Nier’s life was changed forever press, “I will go back to school or Donald Trump) in the White to advance diversity, LaNier re- Crow era using a separate water as troopers escorted her and her die trying.” In 1960 she graduat- House, we have become as we flected on his work, saying, “The fountain, riding the back of the eight black peers from one class ed along with her white and black were 60 years ago. We are anx- time is always right to do what’s bus, sitting in the balcony of the to the next amid the taunts and peers, and continued on to college ious and worried about what lies right. We must never remain silent. theater and, most significantly, mobs of white anger. at Michigan State University. ahead. But we have come too far We had the burden of being first. attending a different, segregated “I knew that there would be “When the burden is so great, to turn back now. If we meet dif- But King’s message was one we be- school. When offered the oppor- some pushback, but not to the your family, your faith and your ferences openly, willingly, we will lieved before he even spoke it. We tunity to enroll in Central High in extent that there was,” said La- community have to help bear be surprised. Be kind to one an- can find the occasion to speak on 1957, she jumped at the chance. Nier. “I knew that there were that load,” said LaNier. “Every other. All that we do when we en- diversity now more than before.” Within a few short months, La- kids that did not want me there, day was a challenge that helped counter others, matters.” PAGE 10 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Wednesday, April 11, 2018 Water dance makes a splash By Megan Lay sheer magnitude of the participa- Staff writer tion from the community. It goes to show that residents of This year, April holds special Erie County and the surrounding significance for the Mercyhurst areas appreciate and care about and Erie communities for reasons the sustainability of Lake Erie. other than being the beginning of In addition to the emphasis on another cold spring. dance, the event also highlights The Mercyhurst community is the importance of scientific re- gearing up for its biannual partic- search on maintaining the health ipation in National Water Dance: of our waterways. The Ripple Effect. Sarah Bennett, Mercyhurst sus- On April 14, this nationwide tainability coordinator and lectur- event will help members of com- er of Biology, has worked to or- munities around the nation reflect ganize many different community on the ways that water sources are environmental organizations for neglected and can be fixed. this event. We have done little to protect Bennett said, “I hope that at- our waterways from dangerous tendees see that water issues af- human impacts such as waste, fect all of us and through interdis- pollution and climate change. ciplinary approaches we can raise Lake Erie and Erie County’s awareness of the issues.” dependence on the water sources It is important that the issues holds a significance to the com- our community and ecosystem munity as a whole. are facing are given attention be- The National Water Dance: fore it is too late to take action. Ripple Effect hopes to encour- The immense amount of col- age and inspire those participating laboration and hard work can pro- and observing to think of ways to Mark Santillano photo vide extremely rewarding results positively impact the water source for the community and environ- in close proximity to our school Junior Niusha Karkehabadi and senior Sara Clarke will perform in the National Water Dance event. ment as a whole. and surrounding community. Bennett said, “I think it pro- The Mercyhurst community A choir, saxophonist and danc- Dance and National Water Dance Santillano has been able to se- vides a lot of different perspec- is providing presentations of all ers will process toward the Erie organizer, has coordinated the cure the participation of many tives that help to see issues in kinds for National Water Dance Maritime Museum, where a col- Erie region’s participation in the local organizations and cultivated broader context. this year. lection of dance, art, music and event. collaborations within the commu- “It really promotes meaningful Organized by the Dance and environmental activities will occur. Santillano said, “At the heart of nity. discussions and, ultimately, better Biology departments, this event The event will culminate with the project is the merging of sci- Santillano said, “Each artistic outcomes,” she said. also includes contributions from presentations on water issues and ence and dance behind the event.” collaborator can bring an aspect National Water Dance: The the Art, Music and English de- collaborative live art performanc- The collaboration between the of concern or celebration into fo- Ripple Effect is an event which is partments. es in the Hirt Auditorium of the Mercyhurst Dance department cus through their individual proj- free and open to the public. The event will begin along the Blasco Library. and 18 other Mercyhurst academ- ects—and that creates such a rich The Mercyhurst community is Lake Erie waterfront at Dobbins This is the second time Solveig ic departments and programs is community conversation.” encouraged to attend this event to Landing at the end of State Street. Santillano, associate professor of not a small feat. The beauty of this event is the help better our waterways. It’s the ‘Hess’t concert of the season By Jenny Sabliov of the recital with “Sports et Di- monies and is very rhythmically Arts and Entertainment Editor vertissements” by Erik Satie. energetic,” Hess said. It contains 20 short pieces that “It was written in the 20th cen- On April 25, Nathan Hess, depict various sporting and playful tury, so the harmonic language is D.M.A., chair and piano profes- activities like tennis and fireworks. a bit adventurous, but there are sor of the Music department, will Each piece is accompanied by a elements of impressionism which present his piano recital to the poem, which will be read by senior ties in with the French pieces in community. Music major Sarah Krempasky the program,” he said. While there is no overarching before Hess plays each piece. Hess tries to give at least one theme to the recital, Hess chose “Satie was a very eccentric com- solo recital a year because he be- pieces that he loves and wishes to poser and was known for being lieves it is important for a faculty share with his audience. unusual, which is reflected in his member to perform for his stu- It just so happens that the first piano compositions,” said Hess. dents and the department. half of the recital consists of “It’s not proper in form — he This is also done for the upkeep French works, while the second explores form and tonality and of his artistry and skill. half consists of pieces by two just wanted to be different than He often tries to program piec- of his favorite composers: Sergei the status quo.” es that are not as well-known. Rachmaninoff and Alberto Gin- The second half of the recital Hess believes that this recital astera. begins with two Rachmaninoff features some lesser-known works, The program will begin with preludes. and he hopes to expose people to Preludes “Hills of Anacapri” These are Prelude in D Ma- different pieces and composers and “Minstrels” from Claude Contributed photo jor, Op. 23, No. 4 and Prelude in like Satie and Ginastera. Debussy’s “Preludes Book I.” E-flat Major, Op. 23, No. 6. He mentions that people gen- “The ‘Hills of Anacapri’ is very Nathan Hess, D.M.A., will continue the Faculty Recital series on April “These are two gorgeous pieces erally do not perform Poulenc’s virtuosic and musically descriptive 25 at 8 p.m. in Walker Recital Hall. that sum up his composition style solo piano works, and he hopes because it paints a picture of the with sweeping melodic lines, rich audience members will appreciate island of Capri off the coast of lenc. It is one of Hess’ favorite that I enjoy,” said Hess. chromatic harmonies and are ex- them. Italy,” said Hess. pieces by Poulenc. “It has everything one would tremely pianistic due to his being a “I want to share this music “Minstrels” is the last prelude According to Hess, although expect early 20 century French master pianist himself,” said Hess. with people,” Hess said. “I am in Debussy’s “Prelude’s Book I.” Poulenc has written an extensive music to have with extensive lush He will conclude the program passionate about the music and I Hess enjoys this piece because it piano repertoire, he is more well- harmonies and arpeggiated left- with Sonata No. 1, Op. 22 by Al- hope that is reflected in this per- is very light-hearted in a “vaude- known for his vocal songs with hand passage work.” berto Ginastera. formance of the works because I ville” way. piano and choral works. He describes the piece as “light He wrote three sonatas, but this really enjoy it,” said Hess. The program continues with “I have been exploring his mu- and enjoyable as one would find is the more popular of the three. It will take place at 8 p.m. in the stand-alone piece Intermezzo sic pretty closely for the past five at an evening party in Paris.” “It has a lot of biting and ac- Walker Recital Hall. It is free and in A-flat major by Francis Pou- or six years, and this is one piece Hess will conclude the first half cented rhythms, dissonant har- open to the public. Wednesday, April 11, 2018 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PAGE 11 20 years with Raw Edges By Megan Lay raphers, Clarke is empowering Staff writer women through choreographing a piece featuring female to female The Mercyhurst Dance depart- partnering, something not tradi- ment is celebrating the 20-year an- tionally used in ballet choreogra- niversary of highlighting student phy. choreography. Clarke said, “The inspiration Presenting an all–female choreo- behind the written portion of my graphed program, nine senior BFA capstone is the high incidence of Dance majors have the opportu- injury in classically trained female nity to choreograph using fellow dancers who must perform con- Dance majors for their final cho- temporary work. reographic work presented in the “I have also spent the year re- Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts searching the evolution of ballet Center. technique, how injury incidence Choreographers are exploring has changed over the years, and and researching themes ranging what exercises are the most ben- from painting, musical accom- eficial for cross-training dancers paniment, strength training and without overexerting them.” dance videography. Clarke hopes to carry the The choreographers are knowledge gained from this pro- Marleigh Bristol, Sara Clarke, Au- cess into her life as a professional drey Davison, Ragan Faulkner, in the dance field. Kathryn Galimi, Lacey Gigliotti, She said, “I am developing Elizabeth Hite, Kerry Schroeder my own curriculum, which I will and Makayla Sprague. someday employ, should I open Schroeder has chosen to study Contributed photo my own studio. the life and work of artist Geor- “I hope the dancers I have been gia O’Keeffe as inspiration for her The cast of Kerry Schroeder’s work is shown with a Georgia O’Keeffe painting. From left: senior Audrey working with have gained confi- capstone research project. Davison, junior Lucas De Marinis, sophomore Megan Carnuche, senior Elizabeth Hite, junior Roman Hall. dence in their new strength and Schroeder’s work consists of are comfortable with the bonds nine one-minute dances, each rep- Schroeder did a great deal of society has on individuals’ percep- music with movement has been they have made with other danc- resenting a O’Keeffe painting. research for her piece. tions of their appearance. difficult. ers in the piece.” Schroeder said, “The most re- She said, “For my research, She researched psychological “However, the most rewarding This event will take place April warding part of this capstone is I have interviewed several art- disorders and societal issues con- aspect of the process is getting to 20 at 7 p.m., April 21 at 2 and 7 being able to see my vision come ists on their opinions on some tributing to the disorders. see my cast grow as dancers.” p.m. and April 22 at 2 p.m. to life on five incredible dancers. I of O’Keeffe’s works. I have also Sprague decided to use Samuel Clarke’s piece, “Resilient Com- On April 20, a pre-performance feel so fortunate to work with my studied her life, her artistic philos- Barber’s composition “Adagio for posure,” is the product of re- reception will benefit commu- talented peers every day.” ophies and many critics’ opinions Strings” as accompaniment for searching the integration of con- nity partner SafeNet, as well as Not only does the entire cap- of her work.” her choreography. ditioning exercises to aid ballet the Jenni-Lyn Watson Memorial stone project include the presen- This allows Schroeder as a cho- Sprague said, “The most chal- technique to better prepare danc- Scholarship Fund. tation of choreography, but the reographer to hold an expert lens lenging aspect of this project has ers for the demands of dance to- Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 choreographers have to research when choreographing her piece. been choreographing to a very fa- day. for seniors and students and $5 and write about an underlying Sprague has gained inspiration mous piece of music. Other than being a part of for Mercyhurst students with ID topic for their work. from the subconscious influence “Matching the power of the the all-female roster of choreog- and children 12 and under. Judy is ‘Collin’ you Lumen unveiling to to last MIAC event By Lauren Ganger Collins is known for her wide take place April 19 Staff writer range of recording material, which includes folk music, musical the- By Anthony Miller Sullivan said, “It really does creative writing and the best crit- On April 26 at 7:30 p.m., ater, pop music and rock and roll, Staff writer represent all the fine arts created ical essay on literature. world-renowned folk singer/ in addition to her social activism. by our students.” The winners of the award re- songwriter and social activist Judy While she began her career as a The unveiling of Lumen will One misconception many stu- ceive prizes. Collins will be coming to Mercy- classical pianist, making her debut occur April 19 at 8 p.m. in Taylor dents have about Lumen is that The winner of the literary es- hurst to give a performance. at 13, she turned toward folk mu- Little Theater. you have to be an English major say contest wins a $200 dollar The concert is called “An Eve- sic as a teenager. Lumen is the student literary to contribute, but Sullivan says prize. ning with Judy Collins” and will While this MIAC season has set and fine arts magazine that is that is not true. The unveiling of the 2018 be the last Mercyhurst Institute a high bar by featuring such big- run almost entirely by the stu- “I’m afraid a lot of students edition of Lumen will be fol- of Arts and Culture (MIAC) per- name performers as Bernadette dent body of Mercyhurst. think Lumen is just for English lowed by the presentation of formance of the 2017-18 season. Peters, Lily Tomlin and Garrison Marnie Sullivan, Ph.D., assis- majors,” Sullivan said. “It’s not, the P. Barry McAndrew Writing Brett Johnson, Ph.D., who di- Keillor, Johnson hints that next tant professor of English and anyone can be an editor and Awards and a poetry reading. rects MIAC, said, “bringing Judy season will not disappoint. one of the faculty members be- any student can submit their The Lumen staff has plans for Collins to Mercyhurst involved The roster for next season’s hind Lumen, emphasized how work.” the future of Lumen. several months of phone calls and MIAC Live performers will be an- much students have to do with Submissions for next year’s Going forward, the staff be- emails with her team, trying to nounced on Monday, April 23. the creation of Lumen. Lumen can be sent to lumen@ hind Lumen wants to publish find a date that worked with her This concert is sold out; how- “Lumen is entirely student mercyhurst.edu. short Lumen ’zines throughout busy schedule.” ever, tickets to “An Evening with run,” she said. “All of the cre- The deadline for next year’s the year to help promote the “Collins, now 78, is as creatively Judy Collins” may be made avail- ative writing and art is done edition of Lumen will likely be main Lumen. vigorous as ever, writing, compos- able the evening of the perfor- by students, a student editorial toward the end of the fall se- One of these mini ’zines was ing, touring and speaking about mance. The box office opens at board judges what goes into Lu- mester, so students will have released in the Fall. mental health and suicide preven- 6:30 p.m., but the cancellation line men, the editing is done by stu- plenty of time to work on their Sullivan said that releasing tion,” Johnson said. can begin earlier. dents, and the design is done by art. more mini ’zines is definitely on The concert will feature selec- Tickets will be sold on a first- the students.” Another part of the Lumen the table. tions from Collins’ 50 albums, come, first-served basis. Tickets are Lumen is an excellent oppor- unveiling is the P. Barry McAn- She said, “The Lumen edi- which include interpretations of $30 for adults, $25 for seniors, $20 tunity for students to show off drew Writing Awards. tors are highly interested in do- works by other famous musicians for students and youth and free for their artistic abilities, no matter The awards are presented to ing more smaller Lumen ’zines in addition to her compositions. Mercyhurst students with IDs. what discipline they come from. the three best submissions of throughout the year.” PAGE 12 OPINION Wednesday, April 11, 2018

GOOD MSG forum angers perpetuates the feeling that high- Hall meal plan requirements and By Marina level staff are inaccessible and the pub on campus — the forum The doors to Zurn Hall have been Boyle unhearing of our unhappiness. changed nothing. Staff writer If there are so many questions The pub was decidedly updated and widened! No more and complaints raised that the happening, and nothing with forum must end with a large Ryan was solved. traffic jams in between classes. The MSG Spring Forum, volume of students being It was actually the backlash which took place March 26, was silenced or having their questions from the forum, the university a perfect illustration of how the ignored, clearly the time allocated survey and letters to President administration fails to hear the for the forum is not good Victor that brought about the voices of Mercyhurst students. enough. change we all embraced. The forum was the best Even if unanswered questions I think the reasoning behind attended that I can ever are emailed to staff to answer, it student anger is clear — we want remember, which clearly shows is not the same as the ability to to be listened to. the level of dissatisfaction and put your grievance to someone We are reasonable when we are disillusionment among the face to face, on the spot. heard, and naturally disenchanted BAD student body with regard to The whole system is catered when we are not. recent campus decisions. toward the comfort and time MSG has a clear role at Rather than feeling as though preferences of the staff, rather Mercyhurst, and the survey they A tree fell on the Grotto Commons voices were heard, most students than the students. put forward to sophomores left more incensed than when Even the fact that students regarding meal plans brought and broke a window during the wind they arrived. have to write all their questions success. The structure of the forum on paper and cannot just speak That being said, the letters that storm last week! does not effectively allow for all freely, as the staff can, says a lot. I encouraged students to write grievances to be heard. Many students I spoke to to President Victor were a direct Only certain representatives felt that certain answers were impact of the anger I felt leaving from three Mercyhurst rehearsed, or that points were just the forum. departments attended, and as I avoided when the result was not MSG needs to take a step back have said at many MSG forums, one that could pacify students. and re-evaluate how these events including the last, the fact that In fact, many students who had actually benefit students. President Michael T. Victor is not never attended an MSG forum I love the work MSG does, and present is a serious issue for me. before simply said they would not anyone will tell you that I don’t INTERESTING His involvement as the go back, as they felt like they had miss a forum. leader of Mercyhurst should be no impact there. However, I have had to ask There is another sign up on the expected. In terms of the central issues- myself, do they actually make a This format further Student Union next to the liquor sophomore housing, the Ryan difference? license notice, explaining the reason behind it. Trump’s wall confuses envisioned between 2,000 and “Putting National Guard troops By Elizabeth 4,000 troops. on the border has proven to be Shewan But what does that mean? very costly and only takes them I can’t be the only person who away from other pressing needs.” Staff writer didn’t know what the National The wall has no allocated The Merciad Guard really was. funding and no timetable, so It seems as if politics are more The National Guard’s own deploying troops until the wall confusing and upsetting than website says, “The National is built means deploying them Editors Positions @mercyhurst.edu ever. Amber Matha Editor-in-Chief editormerciad Guard is a unique element of indefinitely. Cheyanne Crum Managing Editor managingmerciad Right now, politics are divisive, the U.S. military that serves both Since the beginning of his Caitlyn Lear News Editor newsmerciad increasingly personal and community and country. The presidential campaign, Trump Abigail Rinard Features Editor featuremerciad confusing. Guard responds to domestic has rallied his supporters with the Bernard Garwig Sports Editor sportsmerciad No political issue exists emergencies, overseas combat promise of a wall. Jenny Sabliov A&E Editor entertainmentmerciad in a vacuum, but it’s easy to missions, counterdrug efforts, His stance on immigration was Lauren Abbott Opinion Editor opinionmerciad forget about context when our reconstruction missions and a substantial factor in his election. Meghan Maker Copy Editor copymerciad collective cultural attention more.” But now, nearly a year and Chelsea Guida Photo Editor photomerciad spends no more than five The site also says that, “Any a half into his presidency, Megan Stubbs Ad Manager admerciad minutes on any one topic before state governor or the President Trump has made no progress Kristin Bowers Adviser kbowers moving onto the next. of the United States can call on toward building a wall, and I like to think of myself as a the Guard in a moment’s notice.” his supporters are becoming reasonably well-informed person, So it is the president’s frustrated and disillusioned. but recently I found myself The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper prerogative to deploy the This is especially notable given confused by one particular news National Guard, but is it right? the upcoming midterm elections. of Mercyhurst University. It is published throughout the story: Trump’s wall. Naturally there’s some It’s important for the president school year, with the exception of finals weeks. Our office It’s infamous. In June 2015, disagreement on that, and largely to be seen as making progress is in Hirt, Room 110. Our phone number is (814) 824-2376. Trump announced his candidacy, falls to either side of party lines, toward promises he made during and first mentioned his intention with Republicans in favor and his campaign. to build a wall along the United Democrats in opposition. I can’t pretend to have come at States’ border with Mexico to It’s not unprecedented for the this issue as anything other than The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor. All letters keep out illegal immigrants, and president of the United States to the registered Democrat I am. must be signed and names will be included with the to make Mexico pay for the wall. deploy the military or National But the promise of the wall is letters. Although we will not edit the letters for content, Recently, President Trump Guard along the border. important to President Trump’s we reserve the right to trim letters to fit. Letters are announced his intention to Presidents Bill Clinton, George base, and therefore to our due Mondays by noon and may not be more than 300 deploy the National Guard to the W. Bush and Barack Obama all president and our nation. words. Submit letters to box PH 485 or via email at U.S.-Mexico border to assist in did that, according to Fox News. I’ve tried to set aside my own [email protected]. border security efforts until the However, Tim Ryan, a biases and educate myself. wall goes up. Democratic member of the Hopefully, you’ve learned He later clarified that he House representing Ohio, said something, too.

The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the views of Mercyhurst University, the staff of The Merciad or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are welcome and can be emailed to [email protected]. Wednesday, April 11, 2018 OPINION PAGE 13 Graduating senior: HURST STUDENTS a reflection of MU SPEAK UP Why would you not take We asked: By Jenny Become friends advantage of this? Sabliov with as many SAC/MAC events happen “What is your favorite type of music?” almost every weekend as well. A&E editor “ people as you There are plenty of lectures to attend (at least for extra credit). can. Not only will Shawn Titus, sophomore Chemistry Just 32 days to graduation. The Hospitality department it make you a major: “My favorite type of music is The countdown is on, and hosts meals in their Marriott cafe. country. Where I live, it’s the only music almost every senior you see more well-rounded These meals feature senior you hear on the radio, so I grew up walking Mercyhurst’s campus is Hospitality majors who have to individual, but listening to it” buzzing with anticipation and prepare and execute a fancy and anxiety (and, of course, sleep you never know tasty three-course meal as part of deprivation). who you will forge their final project. Unfortunately, As the semester winds down, it is not well-known to the it is difficult not to reflect on my strong bonds of Mercyhurst community. Shelby Hildebrand, freshman Dance past four years at this institution. friendship with.” So if you want a fancy three- major: “I like a little bit of everything! Why should you care about my course meal for only $12.70, then But I especially love old church hymns time at Mercyhurst? make a reservation in advance because they are so peaceful and I hope that this encourages my close quarters and with tensions because they fill up quickly by the meaningful. Or ’90’s rap such as “No fellow seniors to reflect and take building, it is only natural for Erie community. Diggity” by Blackstreet” the graduation stage in stride, friendships to die and fights to Attend a Carpe Diem retreat. even if you are not ready to leave break out. I kept telling myself I would this beautiful campus. attend a retreat, and I am so glad Although, I did witness many Roman Hall, junior Dance major: “My I also hope that underclassmen I finally had the chance to do so of these relationships mended favorite type of music is funk, anything will keep the little pieces of this year. throughout my senior year as that’s funky. It’s more about the beat to advice that I weave throughout You may have heard this from most people mellowed out. me than the music.” this story in mind as they My class had to deal with the a lot of different people, but it continue their journey. transition period of Mercyhurst. truly is a life-changing experience. Overall, I would say my time at We were the last class to be So many different people Mercyhurst was not too bad. under Gamble’s reign, and we attend these retreats, and you There were some great times witnessed President Michael T. will become friends with every and, naturally, some rough times. Victor pick up the pieces of the single one of them because you Allison Dalton, freshman Intelligence I remember waking up on unfortunate presidency. will gain a new perspective of the Studies major: “My favorite style of move-in day, excited to begin the He brought Hurst Day to us, people around you. music is modern rock. I don’t have to next chapter in my life. is expanding campus and seems So go and try something new. change between my everyday playlist and As we pulled up to the iconic like he genuinely cares about the If your friends don’t want to go gym playlist. I just really like that style.” iron gates, nervous anticipation students whenever he graces us — well, you are an adult, and you came over me. with his presence around campus. can go by yourself and meet new I was entering a new place It may seem that a lot of the people. without knowing anyone. new additions to Mercyhurst may There were countless times Compiled by Rebecca Dunphy What if I didn’t make any be unnecessary, but at the end of when my friends chose to be friends? the day we previously were in a hermits and sat around in their What if I didn’t like it here? financial crisis. dorms and apartments on their I am glad to say that this was Victor was brought in to deal phones. not the case. with it and is doing what he can Part of me wanted to fit the I moved into Warde, met my to the best of his ability. mold and be like them, but I roommate and almost everyone As a future alumna, I look decided to venture out and try on the fourth floor became forward to coming back to see new things. I never regretted it friends instantly. how much more Mercyhurst has once. My advice here is to not spend Spring is improved. There are also a number of too much of your time on a I decided to double major in clubs and organizations for you minute number of friendships. Criminal Justice and Forensic to join. These can make yourself There are so many students Anthropology and minor in a more well-rounded person if and faculty from all walks of life. Psychology of Crime and Justice. anything. now here! Become friends with as many I also did the 4+1 program for You can write or take photos Illumination is another MSG people as you can. Not only will Criminal Justice Administration. for the Merciad and get paid for By Lauren event on the horizon. This it make you a more well-rounded Many people thought I was it. Rogus should be interesting, and you individual, but you never know If you play a musical should check it out. crazy for doing so, but at the end Staff writer who you will forge strong bonds of the day your 12 credit hour instrument and would like to It is another good way to get of friendship with. semester cost the same as my 18 continue doing so, the Music out and stop studying for a little However, at the end of the day, credit hour semester. department is always looking to What people think of spring while. remember that you are here for One thing that is nearly expand their ensembles. and what we have now are two Spring means another year is you and no one else. impossible to do, is to have Audition for a play or musical totally different things. coming to a close. You pay good money to be nothing to do at Mercyhurst. — there are always casting However, our student It is hard to believe that the here for your education, and that There are so many things to do notices listed, and once you join government and some other end is near. is all that matters. if you know where to look. that program, you become a part organizations on campus have Seniors graduate and go If there is something that you As someone whose work of their family. some fun things coming up. out into the real world, and see that you don’t like, speak up study is in the Performing Arts I knew coming in freshman Springfest is on April 27, freshmen can’t believe that they about it. Center, there is at least one event year that my time here would go and Timeflies is coming to made it through their first year. You deserve to be respected. happening every week. by so quickly, and it really did. Mercyhurst with DJ Drama. As we approach the end, it is Remember how I said those The Music, Dance, Art, My advice to you is to make This would be a great time to good to remember to get out on the fourth floor of Warde and Theatre departments and the most of your time at meet up with friends and have and have some fun with activities became friends instantly? program are always working Mercyhurst because when you a good time listening to some rather than staying in your room, Well, throughout the course of hard to present something to the are a senior facing graduation, great music. working on projects or essays the year, people began to show campus and community. you realize that it is truly time for To get to know the music of that are not due right away. who they really were: Cliques The Mercyhurst Institute of the adult world. Timeflies and DJ Drama, go on Relax, Lakers, when the were formed, gossip took over Arts and Culture brings amazing I cannot emphasize how many YouTube. weather is nice go out and enjoy and people hated each other. performances to campus and opportunities are present, so take My favorite Timeflies songs fresh air around campus. I attribute this to being trapped their events are FREE for advantage of them and make the are “I Choose You” and By that point there should be on campus as a freshman, in Mercyhurst students. most of it. “Gravity.” less snow and more flowers. PAGE 14 SPORTS Wednesday, April 11, 2018 Seton Hill bests men’s lax By Breonna Bailey 18 from the goal line. Staff writer Despite outshooting their op- ponents, the Lakers fell in faceoff The Mercyhurst men’s lacrosse wins, 18-5. Seton Hill also had a team fell to Seton Hill, 11-9, on 28-24 advantage in groundballs. April 7 at Tullio Field. The Lakers also controlled the Despite holding onto a 5-1 lead ball better, ceding 13 turnovers for a portion of the game, the compared to the Griffins’ 21. Lakers (6-4, 2-2) were unable to “Our game against Walsh hold off a rally from the Seton should be a good bounce-back Hill Griffins, who answered with game in order for us to get our five consecutive goals. confidence back,” said Pipher. The Griffins may have been 9-1 “We need to stay focused, work overall and 3-0 in second place in hard, and stick to our systems in the Greater Midatlantic Regional order to be successful like any Conference (G-MAC). other team.” But they were slow to initially The Lakers return to action meet the Lakers in scoring, and it next on April 10, traveling to would take some scoring rallies of Walsh University in Canton, Ohio. their own to finally pull ahead of Game time is 4 p.m. the Lakers. “This (Walsh) game is an im- In the opening minutes of the portant game that will most like- game, the Lakers converted on Breonna Bailey photo ly dictate the rest of the season,” three separate occasions to lead said Pipher. “You gotta stay fo- 3-0 at 8:59 into the first quarter. The Lakers’ Nathan Grenon, at center, battles in front of the Seton Hill University goal. Seton Hill would cused and play our game, which I The Lakers were only answered go on to win the matchup 11-9. feel like we tried to do, but unfor- by the Griffins once in the first; tunately we didn’t get the results scoring for the quarter was 4-1, Mercyhurst’s Devin Pipher was gave them their final lead of the Oran Horn for the Lakers led we wanted.” Lakers at the end of regulation. able to even the score at 6-6 late in game with 6:07 left to play. the scoring for the day, finishing Walsh will be the Lakers’ third A Laker lead was maintained the third quarter. After that, the Griffins scored with three goals. Pipher, Per- G-MAC opponent in a row. Cur- going into the second with a The Lakers regained their lead four consecutive goals within a na and Grenon rounded out the rently, the Lakers are dead even at margin of 5-1, the highest of the after Dom Perna managed to find span of five minutes, taking the scoring with two apiece. 2-2 in the conference. game. the back of the net with 12:49 re- lead for the remainder of the Lakers goaltender Alec Starr After facing the Cavaliers, the The Griffins finally gained a 6-5 maining in the fourth quarter. game until time expired. finished with seven saves. Griffin Lakers will spend the rest of the lead with three goals in the second However, the Griffins answered The final Laker goal, coming in goaltender Max Eismann finished regular season at home for their quarter and followed with two in in return, tying the game at 7 ex- with 12 seconds remaining was with 11 saves. final three games. the third quarter to surpass the actly five minutes later. not enough to save themselves Additionally, the Lakers outshot Lakers’ tally. A Laker goal by Nathan Grenon from the 9-11 final score. the Griffins 40-28 overall and 20- Softball player named HURST pitcher of the week By Daniel Leonard Staff writer

RESULTS After less than four months on the Mercyhurst softball team, junior Tori Pierucci was named April 6-7, Softball vs. Edinboro Pennsylvania State Athletic Con- University and Malone University: ference (PSAC) West Pitcher of the week. Edinboro game was postponed to a Pierucci was named for her later date; Malone game was canceled achievements in back-to-back games against Seton Hill on April (Lakers are 4-18) 2. “I was really shocked and really excited,” said Pierucci. “I never April 7, Women’s lacrosse vs. Lock really win things, so I thought it Haven University: 7-16, Lock Haven was really awesome and such a great surprise.” (Lakers are now 6-4, 4-2) Pitching for a total of 14 in- nings, Pierucci recorded 13 strike- Hurstatletics photo outs, scattered six hits and was April 8, Women’s water polo at charged with one earned run. Tori Pierucci enters Mercyhurst Softball as a junior, receiving her McKendree Invitational: Lakers Pierucci pointed to her father as accolade only 14 innings into her season. her greatest source of support. (10-7, 3-1) swept the competition with “He helped me become the practice and to the team. header is at home, starting at 2 softball player I am today,” said “Tori has worked hard since p.m at the Mercyhurst Softball victories against McKendree University Pierucci. “He would sit on a arriving at Mercyhurst in Jan- Field. (6-5), Monmouth College (11-4) and bucket almost every day after uary,” said Leanne Baker, head “Something we strive for on the work and catch my crazy pitches, softball coach. “This honor is team is to be a great teammate. Gannon University (7-4) and even though I chipped a few well deserved on her part. She I believe that we have a team of teeth and broke a toe or two, he has learned a lot from our Pitch- great teammates, and they are would always get back out there ing Coach, catchers and fellow happy for the honor that Tori April 8-9, Golf at Edwin Cottrell and keep catching me.” pitchers to help her thrive in the received,” said Baker. “This past Invitational: Men in fourth after first Originally from San Francisco, PSAC.” week, Tori was the face of the Pierucci joined the team at the Pierucci and the Lakers will be hard work this team has been do- day; women in fifth start of the season and imme- playing Slippery Rock University ing all year, and that is inspiring diately began dedicating time to in their next game. The double for everyone.” Wednesday, April 11, 2018 SPORTS PAGE 15 MU Baseball goes 3-1 By Marco Cicchino ended looking to end the threat. McDermott stranded two more out of J. Elliott after a walk and finishing the day with 11 strike- Staff writer This sparked a streak of seven scoring-position baserunners in the two singles. outs in six innings on just three of the next nine Lakers failing to sixth, walking Kapturasky and J. The Griffins carried this mo- hits and three walks to maintain The weather proved to be no hit. Only Adam Bankovich and Elliott in alternation before catch- mentum into the fourth, as Fiedor an unblemished career Earned issue for Lakers pitcher Chris Val- Jared Kapturasky got off home ing Laker Collin Fantaskey looking worked the count full and dou- Run Average against the Lakers. limont, regarded by many as the plate with a pair of walks. for the last of eight baserunners bled to right-center on the sev- “This series is always a brutal ace of coach Joe Spano’s staff. The Griffins’ Mark Colella had stranded by Griffin pitching. enth pitch of the at-bat to drive in one,” said DellaValle. “I’m in the And although pesky Seton Hill ripped a double down the left-field Colella singled with one out in Colella, who had doubled himself zone more than I ever have been Griffins pitcher Perry DellaValle line in the top of that inning for the the seventh for his second hit of after Carney went 6-3 to open the every time I come here. It’s just snaked in a 1-6 win, the Lakers first hit of the afternoon but was the day, but Fantaskey went 9-5 frame. great to get the win today there. were triumphant in three of the promptly retired on a 1-6 choice. and nailed pinch-runner Andrew It would be the only support I just trust my stuff. I really didn’t four contests, winning 1-0, 10-7 After a double-steal from the Chuba at third base for the sec- DellaValle would need, retiring have too many pitches working and 5-4. Griffins’ Sullivan and Jordan Fie- ond out. another side and holding the for me today, Once I got back out The course of the season for dor, Bankovich struck out, spark- Fiedor stole second before Sul- hosts’ scoreline empty in the fifth. there, second, third inning, I just both clubs provided for a natural ing a run of 10 of the next 12 livan chased Vallimont on 2-1, but The Lakers’ Ryan Smerkar worked on that and it worked out matchup of the two best staffs in retired Griffins to suffer a third Adam Jeannette finished the walk greeted Colella with a swinging for me.” the West, with the Lakers (19-5, strike. and retired Sullivan 6-4 to end the strikeout to open the sixth, but Vrbanic then greeted Tyler 10-2) holding a formidable edge The Lakers broke the stale- game. opposite-field singles from Fiedor Passmore with another wild pitch despite having thrown 17 1/3 fewer mate in the fourth with their first Game two on Friday then saw and Tom McCarthy filled the cor- with one out in the seventh, scor- innings as a combined team. of only two hits in the contest, DellaValle open the contest for the ners for the Griffins. ing on a single and advancing to “My fastball was working for with J. Elliott circumventing from Griffins by stranding a full base- With MP Buckley pinch-hitting second on a fielding error. me, curveball,” said Vallimont. Monteverde with a walk before path of Lakers in the first inning. for Braendel, Smerkar uncorked After Colella flew to left, Fiedor “Off beats were starting to get advancing on a wild pitch. O’Donnell and Delsignore drew a wild pitch that skipped under worked a five-pitch walk and ad- more sharp towards the end of This allowed Kapturasky to walks after Standohar struck out. the glove of Delsignore and to vanced on another wild pitch, the the game, and I guess I’m kind of drive in the game’s only run on a But D. Elliott missed the 0-2 the backstop, allowing Fiedor to sixth of the contest allowed by used to the weather. I guess I just single to left, advancing to second offering, and after Schneider score. Laker pitching. want to build off my last couple on the throw for the Lakers. reached on an infield hit to Sulli- Buckley then walked, restoring McCarthy then hit a ground- starts.” The lone run of the game van, DellaValle induced D. Elliott the full corners after McCarthy’s er to O’Donnell, but an errant Vallimont (6-1, 1.26) went would decide the contest for the to end the threat. advance to third. But Smerkar re- throw to D. Elliott allowed Fiedor straight to work on the Griffins Lakers. Meanwhile, Laker Russell Lam- peated the feat with Sullivan bat- and Carney to score the final runs (10-16, 5-7), who are at the bot- Jimmy Standohar singled to ovec (2-2, 2.97) opened the con- ting to score McCarthy. for the Griffins. The end tally was tom of the PSAC in average and center for the Lakers to lead off test by striking out Garret Vrban- The Griffins’ rally only ended 6-1, Griffins. third-worst in slugging. the fifth before Alex O’Donnell ic after hitting the Griffins’ Chris when Delsignore caught Sullivan However, Saturday was a differ- Patrick Monteverde (1-2, 3.24) walked to end Monteverde’s day Law on the third pitch of the with too far a lead at first after the ent story. The Lakers produced responded in the bottom of the after seven strikeouts and five game and inducing the Griffins’ Lakers’ Nicholas McRandal went two wins out of the doublehead- frame, recording the first two walks in four-plus innings of work. Colton Carney around the horn for the Griffins’ Daniel Wukich er, clipping the Griffins’ wings outs for the Griffins before allow- Delsignore and was unable to to wrap up a streak of six consec- on a called third strike. 10-7 and 5-4. ing Drew Delsignore to go on a overcome a wild pitch on salu- utive retired batters. Sullivan got back to first safely, Next contest is another dou- throwing error by Griffin short- tation from the Griffins’ Neal But DellaValle returned the fa- but D. Elliott relayed back to the bleheader series against Slippery stop Tyler Sullivan and an ensuing McDermott, striking out in the vor in the home second, catching plate to catch Buckley attempting Rock. The Lakers are away for blow on Laker Dan Elliott’s hand. dirt to spark a 1-3-1 double that Zach Mitchell, Kapturasky and to score on the throw to first. the April 13 game, but will host Matt Schneider walked to load caught a leading Standohar at the Fantaskey swinging, then strand- But the damage had been done, their opponents on April 14 for a the bases, but Jack Elliott was up- plate. ing the third on a swinging strike- which DellaValle confirmed by 1 p.m. start.

LET’S GO, LAKERS! April 13, Mercyhurst Softball Field @ 2:30 and 4:30 p.m.: Softball vs. California University of Pennsylvania (doubleheader) April 13, Slippery Rock University and April 14, Mercyhurst Baseball Field @ 1 and 3 p.m. both days: Baseball vs. Slippery Rock University (doubleheader both days) April 14, Tullio Field @ 11 a.m.: Women’s lacrosse vs. Millersville University April 14, Mercyhurst Softball Field @ 1 and 3 p.m.: Softball vs. Gannon University (doubleheader) April 17, Tullio Field @ 4 p.m.: Women’s lacrosse vs. Roberts Wesleyan College PAGE 16 LAKER LIVING Wednesday, April 11, 2018

HURST TOON Student-drawn cartoon by Periwinkle