Grace, Spring Fest Student jumps goaltenders weekend audition line are ‘different block party to dance for breed’ prohibited Rockettes

page 4 page 6 page 12 Page 2 NEWS May 2, 2012 Mercyhurst meets goal at Relay for Life

for getting involved with Relay for By Stacy Skiavo Life. Some have been personally Staff writer affected and others just feel the need to help a wonderful cause. Politano had her own personal This year Mercyhurst Univer- reasons. sity came together and made Relay “I first became involved with for Life a success. With this being Relay for Life because my grand- the first year to attempt the full 24 mother and great grandmother hours of walking, Mercyhurst sur- both passed away from cancer,” she passed its goal of raising $25,000 said. with a grand total of $25,743. Relay for Life is an event that There were 37 teams to sign up motivates Politano each year. for the walk including teams from “The reason why I continue to Mercyhurst North East. Each team be involved is from learning about provided a table that included an cancer and how it affects so many activity to raise awareness and earn people around us. money for cancer research. “Students that attend or had “It was great to see the school once attended Mercyhurst really come together. I hope to see the hits home with me. We are still so walk grow even bigger next year,” young and have so much to expe- junior Emily Iabone said. rience; everyone should have the Some of the table activities freedom to live,” she said. included Pie a Professor, a hand Despite the cold weather, every- print board for everyone who one stuck it out and continued donated for the event, Cheer for the the event all night. A bonfire was Cure bows and raffles. started to keep walkers warm, and Zach Dorsch photo Throughout the event, The many stayed the night in tents. Romantic Era, senior Angelina Entertainment at Mercyhurst University’s Relay for Life included TJ the DJ, The Romantic Era, Politano encourages students to Smith and Heather Donovan and seniors Angelina Smith and Heather Donovan and alumnus Mike Show. email her with comments or sug- alum Mike Show performed for gestions regarding the event at those involved. “We thought this was a really lost to the disease. Politano said. [email protected]. The event began with the sing- good way to remember the ones Whalen and Politano worked Everyone has their own reasons ing of the national anthem. Preced- we have lost and something that is hard in preparation for the walk. ing the anthem, Relay for Life chair more interactive. Everyone really They made sure everything went Melora Whalen and co-chair Jennie seemed to enjoy setting them off smoothly including set up, orga- Politano made a speech about Relay’s and watching them as they slowly nizing the supervisor dinner, food beginnings and how the event has blew away,” Politano said. preparation and making sure every- progressed over the years. The ceremony was then followed one fulfilled their duties. “The goal is to get people really with a walk of silence to honor “We have to be authoritative pumped up to start walking,” Poli- those who have had to endure the and remain a fun, yet safe environ- tano said. experience of cancer interfering ment for all the participants. Over- TJ the DJ got the crowd moving with their lives and those who were all, it’s a lot of running around,” with some music, and the color guard led everyone around for the first lap of the day. There was a different theme for Correction the laps each hour. These included a water balloon lap, where partici- The April 25 issue of The Merciad con- pants had to walk around the track tained a story titled, “New building offers with a balloon between their legs. Another included a three-legged new opportunities.” In the story the informa- race, where winners won passes for tion regarding the Leadership in Energy and a free game of bowling. Other themed laps consisted of Environmental Design (LEED) certification faculty versus administration and was incorrect. The building is sustainable, but another when glow sticks were those involved did not seek LEED certifica- passed out around the track. “Relay for Life was a great expe- tion. rience. I had a great time, and every- Vice President for Advancement David one raised a lot of money for a great cause,” junior Lindsay Ogden said. Livingston, Ph.D., said all involved in the A new addition to the walk this process are confident that all of the sustain- year was the release of paper lan- able aspects of the building would get LEED terns into the night at the Lumi- naria ceremony. The lanterns were certification but not Gold or Silver level certi- lit and slowly released, illuminating fication. the sky. May 2, 2012 NEWS Page 3 New responsibility, role for Sister of Mercy Mercyhurst alumna Sister JoAnne Courneen elected president Mercyhurst Preparatory School, including Carlow University and nificant, intentional steps toward By Mark Vidunas as well as president of Mercyhurst Trocaire College. gospel-based contemplative prayer Contributing writer Prep. Like Mercyhurst, these schools and faith sharing, movement from Prior to her latest appointment, also strive to offer “a solid cur- individualism to the common she held such positions as director riculum of education and Catholic good to create an authentic, life- For those not familiar with of Special Programs for Erie Cath- spiritual formation in the Mercy giving Mercy community, creative Sister JoAnne Courneen, she olic schools, the finance director of tradition.” responses to unmet needs by col- is the newly elected president the Mercy International Center in According to the Sisters of laborating with others as appro- of the Sisters of Mercy of the Dublin, Ireland, and the director of Mercy of the America’s mission priate and a lived multicultural Americas, the New York, Penn- the Mercy Institute at Mercyhurst statement, the “Sisters of Mercy and multigenerational conscious- sylvania, Pacific West Community University. are women who commit their lives ness. (NyPPaW). She will start her four-year term to God, deepening their relation- Courneen sees her elected posi- Courneen is a Union City native with the Sisters of Mercy of the ship with God and serving God’s tion as a giant step in her mission who majored in elementary educa- Americas on July 1, in Buffalo, N.Y., people, especially those who are to serve God. tion and graduated from Mercy- where she will direct a leadership sick, poor and uneducated…our Courneen told Mercyhurst about hurst College in 1964. team whose job is to coordinate the Contributed photo mission is to help people to over- her confidence in the organization. According to a recent Mercy- implementation of the direction of Courneen will start her four- come the obstacles that keep them “We have a great team. I am hurst news release, throughout the community. year term Sunday, July 1. from living full and dignified confident in the community and Courneen’s career, she has built As for the organization itself, lives.” broader Mercy world. We look for- leadership skills by serving as The Sisters of Mercy, in addi- For Courneen’s tenure as presi- ward to the future with confidence University in 1926, sponsor two principal of St. Luke School and tion to founding Mercyhurst dent, her goals are taking sig- and hope,” she said. other schools of higher education Theft Warde Hall Monday, April 23 Closed ’Hurst recognized for Liquor law violation Warde Hall Tuesday, April 24 Referred for discipline superior sustainability Theft Warde Hall Erie Campus. new Center for Academic Engage- By Brady Greenawalt “We are the only school in the ment building, this panel system Tuesday, April 24 Closed Staff writer Pennsylvania State Athletic Confer- has since been moved out to the ence that purchases green power, farm, where we hope to involve Theft according to the EPA,” said Brit- the Electricians Union in its instal- Ice Center The United States Environmen- tany Prischak, sustainability officer lation this summer,” Prischak said. Thursday, April 26 Closed tal Protection Agency has recog- for Mercyhurst University. Just because Mercyhurst is 100 nized Mercyhurst University for its Thanks to the offset purchases, percent carbon neutral does not efforts for sustainability. Mercyhurst can be considered mean that students and faculty Theft McAuley Hall On April 14, Mercyhurst “carbon neutral,” the amount of should feel free to be wasteful when Friday, April 27 Closed announced that it had been recog- carbon emissions it creates is the it comes to electricity, nized for using more green power same as the amount that it saves. “Although we purchase offsets than any other school in the Penn- “In 2007, when Dr. Tom Gamble for our electricity use, this does not Trespassing West Main Drive sylvania State Athletic Conference signed the Presidents’ Climate imply that we can continue to use (PSAC). Commitment, we committed the electricity without worry,” said Pri- Friday, April 27 Closed Since 2003, Mercyhurst has been university to carbon neutrality,” said schak. “We would still like our stu- purchasing offsets for the elec- Prischak. “This means that we will dents, staff and faculty to be more Domestic 3937 Briggs Ave. tricity consumption on campus. decrease as much of our carbon mindful of their energy habits… If The money for the “offsets” goes emissions as is possible and then you leave something plugged in, it Saturday, April 28 Closed toward funding national wind proj- offset the rest through purchases still consumes energy, and some- ects, which makes up for the energy like this.” times it’s almost as much it used to used by the campus. Purchasing the carbon offsets is actually run.” Criminal Mischief 742 Wayne St. In the beginning, 10 percent of not the only way Mercyhurst strives Prischak said the sustainability the electricity on campus was com- to be sustainable. office is always looking for new Saturday, April 28 Closed pensated for by these offsets. Soon “Mercyhurst had also received a ideas and welcomes students to afterward the amount was increased 3kWh solar panel system through work with them. to 30 percent. the Solar Scholars grant, which was Students who would like to help April 23 - 28, 2012 Finally, in the summer of 2010, installed on the main lawn in 2007,” keep Mercyhurst an environmen- Mercyhurst purchased 13,781,000 Prischak said. tally sustainable campus can join kilowatt-hours (kWh) worth of However, these solar panels are the campus Green Team and email offsets, which is 100 percent of temporarily out of use. Prischak at bprischak@mercy- electricity consumption on the “Due to the construction of the hurst.edu. Page 4 NEWS May 2, 2012 News Briefs

Student film premieres Sunday

Three communication students wrote and filmed the movie “Cheering Up Dewie” for the annual communication depart- ment student-produced film. Senior Joe Chiodo and junior Brady Greenawalt co-wrote the script, and junior Matt Teleha directed and edited the film. “Cheering Up Dewie” is a comedy about roommates Roger, Troy and Dewie. Dewie is put into a difficult situation when his girlfriend, Rebecca, issues an ultimatum for him to choose between her and his roommates. When Dewie breaks the news to Roger and Troy, he finds out they lost his most prized pos- Jill Barrile photo session -- his signed Muddy Babies CD. Even though hundreds of students were able to gather for a St. Patrick’s Day party, large Throughout the movie, Roger and Troy must do everything groups will not be permitted to party outside for Spring Fest. they can to find the CD to save their friendship with Dewie and ensure he does not move out. “Cheering Up Dewie” premieres Sunday, May 6, in the Taylor Little Theatre at 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the Spring Fest weekend public. block party prohibited Student Financial Services goes paperless at these townhouses. Tobin said he is worried about Starting fall term 2012, Student Financial Services (SFS) By Kelly Luoma She said Residence Life held the safety risks involved with the will be going completely paperless. Editor-in-chief the meeting where the party was block party and thought Mercy- All information will be distributed to students electroni- planned to happen. Agnew and hurst was lucky there were no Tobin wanted to relay their message unfortunate incidents at the St. cally. Although Police and Safety com- to a small group. Patrick’s Day gathering outside the “Most importantly we will no longer be sending paper bills mended students’ behavior after the Senior Irene Gallagher, who townhouses. each term but will be using the ebill 100 percent,” Student St. Patrick’s Day block party involv- lives in one of the townhouses, “We don’t have the capacity Financial Services Representative Shannon Dodick said. ing several hundred Mercyhurst did not think this was the best to control safely those kinds of SFS stresses that students must sign up parents and any University students, another party strategy. events,” said Tobin. “Our goal is to of this size will not be allowed for “I think this was not an effec- keep everyone safe.” other authorized users for “shared access” so they have access this weekend’s Spring Fest. tive meeting because only a select Tobin is concerned about tragic to students’ bills as well. Vice President for Student Life number of people were required to incidents occurring and discussed SFS decided to go paperless in order to save money and Gerry Tobin, Ph.D., and Director attend it,” said Gallagher. Jason Wahl, the 21-year-old Gannon contribute to Mercyhurst’s reputation as a green campus. of Residence Life Alice Agnew met “A lot more people other than student, who died after incurring In order to set up “shared access” on the ebill, students can with students who live in the Lewis those that live in townhouses were head injuries when he fell off the and East 41st Street townhouses on at the St. Patrick’s Day party. They second-floor balcony of the Alpha go to mercyhurst.edu/financial-aid/ebill/ for instructions. Thursday, April 26, to discuss the should have sent an email out or Phi Delta fraternity house. problems associated with having printed notices somewhere to alert Tobin said he still wants students another block party. other people that a St. Patrick’s to have fun, and he explained what Tobin explained the reason for Day 2 can’t occur without conse- activities are permitted. Intel grad students serve community this meeting. quences,” she said. “We want people to have a good “What sparked the meeting was Even though the St. Patrick’s time,” he said. “It’s just that there the rumors that students wanted to Day block party was a success, has to be an alternative to having a Saturday, May 5, 22 graduate students from Mercyhurst’s recreate the party that occurred on Tobin explained why another large gathering with all of the com- Applied Intelligence Program will serve the Erie community in March 17,” he said. block party cannot happen during ponent risks involved with that.” their First Annual Habitat for Humanity Service Project. At the meeting, Agnew Spring Fest. Students are allowed to gather Students will be assisting the Greater Erie Area Habitat reminded students of some of “There was lots of underage outside in small groups to play Mercyhurst’s rules that are stated drinking that we cannot condone,” games, such as corn hole. Inflatable for Humanity from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. to fulfill their mission in the student handbook. She told he said. pools are permitted as well. “Community Building Community.” students that no open containers Penn State Behrend is a dry Additional Erie City Police and According to the intelligence studies department, the “stu- are permitted, and students are campus and Penn State University, Police and Safety officers will patrol dents will work together to improve their teamwork skills and not allowed to facilitate underage Main Campus will be next year, campus for Spring Fest. Liquor build positive relationships with each other and the commu- drinking. Tobin said. He does not intend Control Enforcement will likely be Agnew explained why the Resi- for Mercyhurst to be a dry campus on campus as well. nity.” dence Life meeting only took place as well. May 2, 2012 FEATURES Page 5 DIY College Style: Grilled chicken salad On her blog, A Grapefruit’s (many) Passions, senior Alaina Rydzewski writes about her foray into cooking, along with movie, book and music reviews. To check out her blog, visit agrapefruitspassions.tumblr.com.

Contributed photo A student holds a pet hamster and has enjoyed its company since it has lived in an on-campus apartment. Students secretly house 4-legged friends on campus ago at the Millcreek Mall pet store hypo-allergenic dog that makes its By Haley Bradstreet and has embraced its company ever way around campus getting as much Contributing writer since. The student has had pets human contact as possible. before and not having any of them “Dog Days” occur in Garvey at college was too big of a change. Park to remind homesick students When Residence Life is called in A more extreme example is a stu- of their distant pets and to coun- What you will need (makes enough for four servings): three to four to deal with an animal on campus, dent who housed a two-foot alliga- teract seasonal depression due to chicken breasts, two bags baby spinach, dried cranberries, walnuts, the presumption is that the critter tor when the friend who owned him Erie’s lake-effect snow. small package of semisoft goat cheese and sliced beets. will be cute and furry. Never would was preparing to go overseas. The There are, however, several argu- anyone expect to find an alligator in student kept him in an aquarium- ments non-pet-friendly colleges like You can put basically anything on this salad that you want—I an apartment. type tank with a filtration system Mercyhurst make in order to ensure added sliced avocado on my salad, but the recipe did not originally Whatever the critter type, its and a heat lamp. healthy living for all. Allergies, quiet call for it. owner risks a $50 fine, 10 hours Alice Agnew, director of Resi- hours and property damage are of community service, social pro- dence Life, recalls when the alliga- issues that involve the whole dorm. What to do: bation, restitution and possible tor was discovered. “It certainly induces damage in removal from housing if he or she “(The area directors) were the apartments,” said Agnew. “Cats 1. Put oil and ground pepper on chicken and place on grill until have a pet in their apartment or searching, and they found the cage and dogs especially. Anytime we’ve there is no pink on the inside. This takes approximately 10-15 min- dorm. that would have held it. I believe ever had them, they certainly leave utes. Many students grow up with ani- then (the student) brought out the signs that they have been there.” mals in their homes to bring silent alligator and showed everyone,” Cat hair can find its way any- 2. Rinse baby spinach, slice beets, avocado and cheese. Sprinkle comfort and companionship. At Agnew said. where, loud barking can disrupt walnuts and cranberries over baby spinach. college, stress is full blown, and The alligator soon left campus studying students and damage in having a noiseless rabbit or a cud- grounds for good, but other, less campus buildings can result in 3. Top salad with chicken and enjoy. dling dog remains popular despite dangerous animals, have escaped financial responsibilities for all resi- them being forbidden according to notice. dents. For the university, it’s easiest The salad recipe is from Women’s Health Magazine. the student handbook. Another student knew the illegal- to have students keep the pets at The handbook states, “With the ity of pets on campus but decided home. exception of guide dogs or bona to take the risk and buy himself a “We’ve had conversations with fide service animals and fish in dog. The student is confident about our counseling center about sup- aquariums with a combined capac- maintaining this secret from Resi- port animals versus service ani- ity of 10 gallons or less, no pets are dence Life and Police and Safety. mals,” said Agnew. “We’ve said no allowed in campus housing.” In hiding the playful pup, he said to support animals because starting With permission from room- “not much” was done apart from to allow them means you open up a DIY College Style is a weekly column featuring two college students’ blogs on mates and residence life, one may hiding him during tri-annual health lot of doors and none of our offices quick and easy tips about crafts and food. have their pet visit for 48 hours. and safety inspections. or anyone else that we’ve talked to Despite being prohibited, there Mercyhurst has already recognized feels comfortable with opening that are still students who have pets on the calming effects animals can have door.” campus. on students. Just last year, the Coun- As far as changes are concerned An anonymous student bought seling Center started training its in the pet policy on campus, Agnew a Siberian dwarf hamster two years new therapy dog, Bailey, a cheerful sees no future change. Page 6 FEATURES May 2, 2012 Student auditions for Rockettes have difficulties uploading the video. By Kayla Kelly She was able to submit her video at Staff writer 11:45 p.m. with 15 minutes to spare. “It was such an on-the-whim thing, so when I found out I was in the top Mercyhurst University senior Victoria Scott 10 I was shocked,” Scott said. has always dreamed of becoming a Rockette, Hundreds of women applied for the and she is now one step closer to making her contest, and Scott actually made it to dream a reality. the top five, but they found a glitch in Scott is a senior dance major with a concen- the system and allowed all 10 girls to tration in performance and business administra- come to New York City. The contest tion minor. is flying each woman there, providing “When I was little I used to compete, and I hotel accommodations and allowing actually performed to a song called, ‘I Wanna the women to jump the line for audi- Be A Rockette.’ I didn’t think I was going to be tions. tall enough, but thankfully, I grew,” Scott said. One of the benefits of being one of Her mother was the person who put her into the winners of the contest is that Scott dance classes, and Scott quickly began to fall in does not have to wake up early to stand love with the art. in line for auditions. The line will start As for Scott’s Mercyhurst support, Noelle outside Radio City Musical Hall, and Partusch, associate professor of dance, was one there will be roughly 500 women wait- of her professors who strongly influenced her in ing to audition to be a Rockette. dance. Scott will be one of the first to audi- “She and the rest of the department have tion that day in front of the director always been extremely supportive of me,” Scott of the Rockettes. Another advantage said. “I had to drop the spring performance to of submitting her video to the contest be able to go to the Rockette audition, and I was is the director has already seen Scott fully supported by the department in my deci- dance and was the person who chose sion.” her video to be placed in the top 10. Many dancers dream of the chance to become Each year the number of danc- a Rockette, and Scott decided to work toward her ers selected to be a Rockette varies. goal. She submitted to a contest called Jump the There are about 40 Rockettes, so spots Line that she found through Twitter and Face- are determined on retirement of cast book. The contest required contestants to submit members. a video less than three minutes long of them Scott will fly to New York City on Contributed photo dancing to jazz, ballet and tap. Wednesday, May 2, and her auditions It was deadline day and Scott decided she Victoria Scott won a free trip to New York City to pursue her dream to audition to become a Rockette are on Thursday, had nothing to lose by entering the contest. She for a chance to be a Rockette. May 3. threw together the video that day and started to The Ashram Retreat: A relaxing get away available for students a prayer and light breakfast before ities in the retreat, since a relaxing commitment to a diverse approach she said. By Brianna Carle setting off on the electronic-free way to begin. to spiritual development and expres- The Ashram Retreat is one that Contributing writer bus ride to Clarion. Anyone who is interested is eli- sion,” Amatangelo said. can leave a person feeling calm, At the retreat, students will par- gible to join. About 20 students This retreat is one that is very relaxed, refreshed and selfless. It is ticipate in yoga, spring weeding, a are already signed up, but more close to Amatangelo’s heart. She a chance to get away from the crazy Mercyhurst students will be join- walking meditation and “story-tell- spots are still available. Informa- has put a great deal of time, effort stresses of life and take the time ing Campus Ministry on a trip to ing” session before they come back tion about signing up can be found and prayer into the success of this to slow down and find one’s self Clarion, Pa., for the annual Ashram to campus around noon the next on flyers throughout campus, the retreat, and it certainly shows. again. retreat, May 12-13. afternoon. Campus Ministry Bulletin, the reli- “About two years ago I was With the price of $20, students This retreat is designed to “intro- Yoga instructor, yoga thera- gious studies faculty or by emailing thanking my creator for the gift will receive transportation, food duce any student interested to diverse pist and daughter of the Ashram’s Betty Amatangelo. of believing in unconditional and lodging. ways of slowing down and with- founder Leela Mata, Darshanie “Campus Ministry is open to love. Part of that gratitude was a If you’re interested in having a drawing in a healthy way from the Radha Sukhu will be present to lead support the spiritual seeking and request to be directed to opportu- relaxing night away from campus, everyday stresses of life,” said Betty karma yoga. According to Amatan- guidance of all faith experiences. nities to reveal this gift to others. sign up for the Ashram Retreat. Amatangelo, retreat coordinator. gelo, karma yoga is “the yoga of We are here for the entire campus Planning the Ashram Retreat is For more information, email The retreat will be filled to the selfless service.” community. The Ashram Retreat is simply one of the many ways Amatangelo at bamatangelo@ brim with events, beginning with This will be one of the first activ- an example of our openness and that prayer has been answered,” mercyhurst.edu. May 2, 2012 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Page 7 Australian band makes it big in US and the inability to change one’s By Aaron Ullman circumstances is shown to be “like Staff writer punching in a dream.” It contemplates the grasping-for- the-wind feeling life can sometimes Hailing from New Zealand, The exude. Naked and Famous has made quite “Young Blood” has a great a stir with its only studio album, Sarah Hlusko photo electro-pop melody with nostalgic “Passive Me, Aggressive You.” Voice students work diligently for months to prepare their repertoire for the recitals given at meaning. Throughout the song, the While it has been very popular the end of their junior and senior years. lyrics represent the joyful naivety “down under,” the album has just of youth—especially that of young recently started to make inroads in love. the States thanks to the band’s work It also warns about how fleeting being featured in various TV shows, youth can be, summed up with “Let Voice students give FIFA 12 video game and a Machine go before it’s too late.” The track is Gun Kelley track. a perfect one in many regards. The album is a mish-mash con- There are many other great songs taining modern pop, rock and ‘80s on the album as well. “The Sun” is a weekend of recitals new wave vibes. haunting track that slowly adds one Often retro motifs are held side- The following two pieces were Each soprano gave a stunning layer of complexity after another. by-side to shades of newer styles By Mathew Anderson by the well-known composer Wolf- display of virtuosity and started the “No Way” is a slower, ballad-like of rock. Their sound is a hybrid of Staff writer gang A. Mozart. program energetically. The third exhibition that builds to a powerful sorts, where MGMT meets Passion The link between these two pieces work in this section was sung by denouement in the lyrics, “All this Pit. is the composer because unlike the Orgel and was also accompanied by means, losing/ Letting go.” Over the course of this past The electro overtones and grungy previous sections, this one featured Chris Wise on trumpet. The emotion of ending a rela- weekend, Walker Recital Hall was guitars are masterfully morphed two separate languages. One was After that another rendition of tionship is well complimented by ripe with talent that would drop into catchy melodies and a fresh sung fluently in Italian and the other “Pieta Signore” by Stradella, much the crescendo in the music. any jaw. The four recitals featured unique sound. boldly in German. like the performance we heard the The album is not perfect; how- extensive repertoire, beautiful This resuscitated retro sound is Both renditions were stunning day before, it was a wonderful dis- ever, a lot of the material has dresses and five sopranos, along most evident in the track “Eyes.” shows of vocalist virtuosity on play of the capabilities and talents overstayed its welcome, especially with one baritone. It could easily fit into a classic ‘80s Steves’ part. The latter of the two, of Mercyhurst’s music students. toward the end of the album. Senior Brianna Steves gave the movie with its era-specific beat and “Bester Jungling,” featured a diffi- The third section of the program Many of the songs are flotsam, first recital along with her accompa- synthful backdrop. cult melismatic pattern toward the was completely in German. The merely extending the disc as long as nist, Andrew Rainbow. Steves com- In the same vein, the leadoff end of the piece, and Steves not diction of these pieces was incred- possible. manded the stage with a stunning, track “All of This” is a superb song only made it look effortless, but ible. Five or six of the tracks could classic black dress. with a catchy tune and guitar riff. also did so with flying colors. After intermission, the three easily be cut out, and the overall Steves opened the performance Two of the best songs on the After a short intermission, Steves women presented amazing displays album would still retain its great- with three selections in Italian. First, album are hands down, “Punching again took the stage and presented of vocal talent. This last half of the ness. was the well-known piece “Pieta in a Dream” and “Young Blood.” works by George Frederick Handel, recital included Bellini’s “Ah! Non Besides the filler, though, “Pas- Signore,” composed by Allesandro The former addresses the fear of French composer Henri Duparc Credea Mirarti,” Debussy’s “Beau sive Me, Aggressive You” is a won- Stradella. Its long melodic lines futility and failure. and Eva Dell’ Acque. Soir” and Saint-Saens’ “Aimons- derful album with fresh, integrative joined with Steves’ wonderful voice This fear of life’s unknown The recital concluded with a Nous et Dormans.” music. instantly charmed the audience. It events is portrayed as a nightmare, little comedic relief. Gian Carlo The recital concluded with three rang clear as a bell through every Menotti’s “The Telephone Aria” is English arias by Floyd, Moore and note she sang. sung exactly how it sounds: on the Menotti. Whether it is a long legato telephone. The three women brought forth melody, or short staccato trills with The second and equally stun- a stunning recital that showed their challenging note jumps, Steves ning performance was the recital of brilliance and proficiency with all made it seem as though it was as “The Three Sopranos.” This recital their music. easy as picking flowers. consisted of a collaborative effort There were also stunning vocal The next section of music was of seniors Kirstan Orgel, Alianna performances from senior Eliza- completely in German and all by Whiteaker and Sara Maitland. beth Zurasky and junior William late romantic composer Gustav Accompanying the three were Pertransky. Mahler. adjunct faculty members Ruth Ann Both vocalists commanded the This section was extremely bright Scanzillo and Faith Lifshen on stage and left their audiences want- and airy, and gave the listener a piano. ing more. sense of happiness, which almost Starting off the concert were This past weekend was a great forced them to smile. three works by George Frederick representation of the absolutely Mesapress.com photo The same could be said for the Handel, each performed by a differ- stunning caliber of Mercyhurst’s The Naked and Famous have started to make their big debut following selections in Italian, which ent vocalist. music department. were equally pleasant to listen to. in the United States after gaining fame in Australia. Page 8 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT May 2, 2012 ‘Elixir of Love’ features Mercyhurst alumni Nemorino innocently asks Dul- from Dulcamara, and she falls for By Mathew Anderson camara if he has anything resem- Nemorino. Staff writer bling a love potion. Nemorino appears alone, con- Dulcamara sells it to him at a vinced that Adina loves him. price matching the contents of She enters, asking him why he This weekend the Erie Opera Nemorino’s pockets. has chosen to join the army. Theatre will be putting on a pro- Unknown to Nemorino, the When Nemorino says he’s seek- duction of “The Elixir of Love” by bottle contains only wine. Nemo- ing a better life, Adina responds Gaetano Donizetti. rino drinks it, feeling its effects by telling him she has purchased The performances will be located immediately. his military contract from Sergeant at the Erie Playhouse and will fea- Emboldened by the “elixir” Belcore. ture some very talented Mercyhurst Nemorino encounters Adina, and He is free now, but She says, alumni. The performance will be although her wedding with the Ser- however, that if he stays, he will no under the direction of Mercyhurst geant has been scheduled for six longer be sad. Professor Brent Weber. days later, Nemorino is certain he’ll Nemorino then believes that he The opening of this comic opera win Adina tomorrow with the help is rejected and the doctor has taken finds Nemorino, played by Mercy- of the elixir. him for a fool, and must die as a hurst alumnus Andrew Ferguson, a This upsets Adina, and given the soldier anyway. poor peasant, in love with Adina. news that the Sergeant must leave Contributed photo Adina confesses that she loves Adina, played by Mercyhurst the next day, they decide to marry “The Elixir of Love” will be performed at the Erie Playhouse him, and Nemorino is ecstatic. The alumnus Andrea Baker, is a beauti- immediately. Nemorino panics, and Sergeant claims that there are other ful landowner. and is free and open to the public. calls for the doctor to come to his women in the world, and he will go He is convinced that a magic aid. find one. potion will gain Adina’s love for diately. The doctor refuses and goes It is later learned that Nemorino At the wedding, the notary arrives The doctor then follows, telling him. into the house. has inherited a large sum of money to make the marriage official. the Sergeant he has an “elixir” to Sergeant Belcore appears with The sergeant appears outside and for his deceased uncle. Everyone goes inside to sign the help his conquest. his regiment and immediately pro- asks about Nemorino’s dejection. Nemorino has no idea this has wedding contract, but Dulcamara The performance will be Friday, poses marriage to Adina in front of When Nemorino says he has no happened, so when the town’s girls stays outside, helping himself to May 4, at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, the town. money, Belcore suggests that if he crowd him with hellos this is proof food and drink. May 6, at 2 p.m. A traveling salesman, Dulcamara joins the army he’ll be paid imme- to Nemorino that the new dose of Nemorino appears and begs him The opera will show at the Erie arrives, selling his bottled cure-all to diately. Nemorino then signs up in the elixir has worked. for more elixir that will work imme- Playhouse and is free to the public. the townspeople. return for the cash. Adina hears what has happened Senior dancer profile: Rachel Torgesen What is the moment you will as their programming intern. Hope- By Alexandra Stacey remember most from your time fully I will get some good experience A&E Editor at Mercyhurst? and it will lead to more opportuni- “Something I will always remem- ties.” ber from my time here was casting Rachel Torgesen, this month’s featured for our fall show freshman year. senior dancer, is from Saratoga Springs. Do you think your education All of the freshmen were nervous She is a dance major with a minor in arts has prepared you for the future? about our first audition for the “Before I came to college, I was administration. department. Being new, we weren’t a complete ‘bunhead’ and very sure if we were going to get cast or narrow minded in what I wanted Why did you decide to come what kind of parts we were going to do. From the stand point of to Mercyhurst? to get. About a week after the audi- arts administration, I would prob- “It’s actually a funny story. Mer- tion the casting went up and we ably not even have known about cyhurst was at the bottom of my list were all so excited to see that we all the field if it wasn’t for Mercyhurst. before I came to visit. I didn’t know had been cast in the show.” All of the classes I took for my arts where Erie was, and I wasn’t sure I administration minor gave me a was going to like a Catholic school. good base to start working and to “When I came to visit for my What are your plans for after possibly go to graduate school.” audition, I fell in love with the graduation? “Arts administration is some- campus and the quality of the dance thing that I’m very interested in, department. The size of the school What will you miss most about and I would love to someday work and the atmosphere was a perfect the ‘Hurst? for a performing arts theater or a “I will miss all the friends I have fit for me. dance company, doing their pro- made here the most. I have met so Contributed photo “I actually met my roommate at gramming. many great people at Mercyhurst, Senior Rachel Torgesen is looking into arts administration as an audition for a different school.” “This summer I will be working and I feel like a have a second well as continuing her career in dance. at the National Museum of Dance family here.” May 2, 2012 OPINION Page 9 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 always welcome and can be emailed to [email protected]. Student responds to Vatican article and exploratory that is being called that actively endorses Obama’s measures in the form of health care LCWR right now. By Matthew Yaw into question. It is at this point that health care plan, and the second to their employees. This demand The Catholic Church has a partic- Contributing writer I must disagree. is an open disagreement with the seems ironically like the separation ular image and ideology to protect, While terms like “radical femi- Church on teachings regarding of church and state, except that it is and when somebody engages in nist” shortly followed by “crack- women in priesthood and other the opposite direction. teaching on behalf of the Church, I must begin with an agreement. down” in news headlines paint a accusations of the Church as being The Catholic Church takes issue this will inevitably reflect back to In last week’s issue of The Merciad, Gestapo-style image of the Vatican misogynistic. with the government demanding the Church. Caitlin Handerhan, in her Vatican kicking in doors to seize the dissent- The first prong, regarding that contraception be counted as I agree with Handerhan that deems nuns’ group out of line arti- ers, I struggle to see the Vatican’s endorsing Obama’s health care health care. debate and discourse must be free cle, says that she has “always viewed agenda as anything like this. program, is serving as the starting With the Catholic Church’s and open. (her) faith as something to explore, The risk that the Vatican takes point for a good bit of controversy staunch stance on contraception, But, I also believe that there is a learn, and think critically about.” I by not imposing some kind of in modern America. the institution has a responsibility time when one moves past discourse could not agree more. supervisory role upon the LCWR The Catholic Church has taken to ensure that anyone who is sup- and begins speaking on behalf of a This insightful, and in modern is that there is an inherent risk that a firm stand on its lack of support porting a health care movement like particular organization with the air context profound utterance is this organization will be perceived for this health care plan. This stand, this is not speaking on behalf of of authority. noble. I am upset that her interpre- as presenting the opinions of the contrary to popular belief, is not a the Church. It is at that time that the organi- tation of the recent events regard- Catholic Church. standard morality debate (as com- The second part is too lengthy zation or institution has a responsi- ing the Vatican and Leadership It seems to me, as a casual news pared to the gay-marriage debate). to get into but is in itself more a bility to defend its name. Conference of Women Religious reader, that the disagreement The Catholic Church disputes theological debate than a social/ Thank you for the insightful (LCWR) has led her to believe that between the Vatican and the LCWR the requirement laid out in the political policy debate. I believe that article and for shedding light on an it is this notion of faith as dialectic is two-fold: the first is the LCWR health care plan to force Catholic Handerhan misrepresents what is important event that most people connection to the group network employers to provide contraceptive occurring between the Vatican and are probably ignoring.

Reflecting on Deep Water Horizon Student examines crisis two years after oil spill devastated Gulf region If you don’t want it printed . . . don’t let it happen. Editors Positions @mercyhurst.edu caught, and as a result, his town has zon has caused. Kelly Luoma Editor-in-Chief editormerciad By Steve Long become “as desolate as a wasteland, According, to Dr. Sam Joyce, a Alaina Rydzewski Managing Editor newsmerciad Contributing writer and all that is missing is the tumble marine scientist, the eco system in Liz Zurasky Features Editor featuremerciad weeds.” the Gulf of Mexico is no doubt Caitlin Handerhan Opinion Editor opinionmerciad Only two years ago this nation Fellow shrimper Lisa Corral significantly altered, and scientists suffered from one of the worst corroborates Blanchard’s claim by will not know the full extent of Spencer Hunt Sports Editor sportsmerciad environmental disasters in history stating that the shrimp being caught damage caused by the accident “for Alex Stacey A&E Editor entertainmentmerciad when the Deep Water Horizon in the Gulf often have no eyes and decades.” Chrissy Mihalic Copy Editor copymerciad began leaking oil at the Macondo therefore are not consumable. This is due in part because much Kaitlin Badger Graphics photomerciad of the oil was saturated into the Well. The accident released roughly Jill Barrile Photo Editor photomerciad 4.9 million barrels of crude oil into The area affected bottom, and storms pushed much the Gulf of Mexico. of the oil inland, and experts are Ethan Johns Web Editor ejohns89 “by the oil spill still still trying to assess the extent of Currently, British Petroleum has Max Rivera Ad Manager admerciad claimed that “all of the oil is gone, suffers catastrophic the damage. Another indication Bill Welch Adviser wwelch and the Gulf of Mexico is better of continued problems is that tar than it ever was before.” destruction... mats are still washing up along the Even so, I recently attended a beaches in the Gulf, as recent as The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst guest lecture at Mercyhurst about - Steve” Long March 2012. University. It is published throughout the school year, with the exception of the accident and learned that the While British Petroleum’s claim finals weeks. Our office is in Hirt, Room 120B. Our telephone number is Gulf of Mexico is no better than is clearly false, the Federal Govern- it was before despite British Petro- Since much of the shrimp is ment should be pressing British (814) 824-2376. leum claims. not consumable, shrimpers cannot Petroleum to continue its efforts to The area affected by the oil spill bring their catch to the marketplace, clean up the Gulf of Mexico. The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor. All letters must be signed still suffers catastrophic destruction and many have been forced to give The impact of the Deep Water to both the environment and the up their tradition of shrimping and Horizon accident has clearly and names will be included with the letters. Although we will not edit the economy that experts believe will find other work elsewhere. affected wildlife, food chains, wet- letters for content, we reserve the right to trim letters to fit. Letters continue into the future. Experts believe Blanchard’s and lands, economies and foliage for Dean Blanchard, a big-time Corral’s current situation is only a many years to come, and all I am are due Mondays. by noon and may not be more than 300 words. Submit shrimper in the Gulf of Mexico, precursor to the true extent of the promoting is accountability for letters to box PH 485 or via email at [email protected]. claims there are few shrimp to be damage that the Deep Water Hori- British Petroleum’s actions. Page 10 OPINION SeptemberMay 3, 20082, 2012 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 always welcome and can be emailed to [email protected]. End of the year brings reflection fast? Man, freshman year of college goes expo- adore and idolize, thank you for all that you have By Jaslyne Halter nentially faster. I can’t believe it. I’ve spent so taught me. It makes me realize that Mercyhurst Staff writer much time here, invested so much energy and really is a community filled with people willing to now it’s over (almost). help. Carpe Diem, and good luck to you all; make Once finals period is done, I’m packing up my Mercyhurst proud. The Laker nation has more Never in my life did I think that my first year stuff, saying goodbye and then I’m leaving for Lastly to Meg Hess: Although I just met you to celebrate this weekend of college would actually go as fast as it did. I Pittsburgh. I’ll be home for the last summer, and a few months back, you have epitomized what than Spring Fest–senior look through pictures that have been taken this year — a year of making new friends, learn- being a Mercyhurst Laker is all about. Your dedi- throughout the year and realize how much has ing new subjects to an incredible depth, enjoy- cation to the school, spirit and making the most standouts Ian Wilde and really changed. Trevor Kennedy signed with ing the bipolar Erie weather, coming back into of your time here has truly influenced me in My world has been a whirlwind for the past my room at late hours of the night (or early in regard to how to manage my time and make the NFL teams this week. several months I have been experiencing stress- the morning) and experiencing unprecedented, best of my days. Thank you for being perfect. ful weeks of exams, being torn between my unimaginable growth — this whole crazy year To end this article I would like to tell everyone majors, rejected from clubs and organizations, will be a memory, a dream. Oh. And I can say to enjoy Spring Fest this weekend. Whether you became an executive board member, to meet that the end of freshman year is when I finally plan on rocking out to Sean Kingston, enjoying new people and, of course, finals are now loom- pin-pointed a general idea as to what I plan on seeing alumni or partaking in other festivities, ing in the distance. doing with my life. make like a Laker and seize the day. You thought senior year of high school goes To the graduating seniors that I have grown to

After the St. Paddy’s day MSG responds to student complaints, concerns block party went off with- out a hitch, 63 percent of ment as well. MSG meetings, held year, and has ideas for even more the work that these individuals do, students voted in a Merciad By Jeremy Dickey on Mondays at 8:30 in the MSG projects in the future. members of the executive board are poll that they want a repeat Contributing writer chambers, are open to any student The 2011-2012 senate passed open to let students shadow them for Spring Fest weekend. wishing to bring issues to light. proposals for Wii systems in both to see all that they do on a day to Too bad Residence Life In addition, students who do Baldwin and McAuley Halls, passed day basis. Just like any elected body, Mercyhurst Student Govern- not serve on MSG are welcomed a proposal to remodel the Great time will always be a factor. already met with town- ment (MSG) wishes to address the and encouraged to come and see Room of the Herrmann Student So let’s give the new executive house residents to crush concerns presented in the recent how a meeting is run. The truth Union and have arguably repre- board and senate a little more time the dream. Merciad article. Last week, students is, very few students currently take sented the students more effectively to get their feet wet and hit the were able to vote for their represen- the opportunity to join MSG in than past boards. ground running for an amazing year tatives for the upcoming academic their weekly meetings, and this is Transparency is an issue that an ahead. year. In record numbers, students something MSG would like to see organization with confidentiality is Please remember, any student is participated in the voting process. changed. However, this change faced with, and the MSG executive welcome to join MSG during their More than 20 percent of the cannot be adopted without effort board is given access to confiden- weekly meetings, and we hope to student body participated in senate from the students too. tial information that sometimes see new faces in the near future. elections; this is up from the barely The newly elected executive requires less transparency. 11 percent from last year. MSG is board is barely a month into office We hope that in the upcoming very happy to see such high stu- and have several new ideas and ini- year, a more transparent senate dent participation and hopes that tiatives planned to increase MSG carrying the message of the entire this will lead to further engagement senator engagement and participa- organization will provide students Contributed by the Students using a debit card by the student body in events, and tion within the particular constitu- with the best possible transfer of MSG PR Coordinator at the Laker or coffee bar activities hosted by MSG. encies they represent. information. Members of the exec- this term may be hit with This being said, the relationship As for effectiveness, MSG has utive board are compensated for between MSG and the students is massive overdraft charges, accomplished several projects ben- the work that they do. one that involves student engage- efitting the entire student body this If students are curious about since all purchases were only verified with the bank this week. So for those money savvy students trying to budget their money per week, think again. The best Medical advances inspire merciad. part? Mercyhurst refuses to reimburse the hundreds mercyhurst.edu/ of dollars in overdraft charges, despite student by opinion complaints. Courtney Hartline Online May 2, 2012 Sports Page 11 Rivera brings passion for Nikes, baseball skills that have allowed him to accu- ence in the teammates he has had. By Joe Chiodo mulate 19 pairs of basketball sneak- “The only difference between Contributing writer ers. He leaves 13 of them safely my past and present teammates is boxed up back home. He makes where they are from; baseball is a sure to always have enough money universal language, no matter the Jaasiel “Jay” Rivera is a hard to buy the newest pair of Jordans player,” Rivera said. person to miss on campus. each year. Rivera is not just a baseball player Just look for the Dominican stu- Rivera’s passion for basketball at Mercyhurst University, but also dent with the black New York Yan- sneakers is not the only thing he an intramural supervisor, ball boy kees hat, brim always forward. If brought from Bronx. Just a short for soccer, football and basketball that’s not enough, just keep an eye walk from his home Rivera can find games, president of Diversity Club open for his impeccably clean Nike himself outside the stadium of the and a member of the Student Advi- basketball sneakers. most successful baseball team of all sory Board. The only way Rivera Rivera, a senior, is all about time, the New York Yankees. is able to juggle all of these extra- Nikes, to the point where he cleans “I live 20 minutes from the sta- curriculars alongside baseball is his sneakers with a pencil eraser, dium, so I immediately fell in love because he a perfect example of a being sure to wipe all evidence of with the Bronx Bombers (New multi-tasker. dirt or grime that may have accu- York Yankees),” Rivera said. “I’m used to getting things done mulated throughout the day. Rivera He began playing baseball when quicker than people not from the considers himself a “sneaker-head,” he was only six years old, playing on city. A New York minute is faster or someone who collects rare, lim- multiple summer teams and playing than a regular minute, so I’m used to ited or exclusive sneakers. for Cardinal Hayes High School. multitasking,” said Rivera. “People “My favorite pair of sneakers Playing baseball in the middle often tell me I walk too fast.” is my Air Jordan X or ‘10s’ as my of the busiest city in the world is With the baseball season and fellow sneaker-heads call them. I very different from playing on the Rivera’s time as a Mercyhurst Laker think they have a very sleek design,” quiet hills of Pennsylvania. Rivera ending shortly, Rivera has great Rivera said. recalls the transition from playing plans for the future. Rivera picked up his sneaker-col- in Bronx to Erie as being difficult Sports Information photo “I want to go back to New York lecting hobby back in his hometown, to grasp at first. Senior Jay Rivera has been a part of two consecutive Pennsyl- City and become a financial adviser Bronx, N.Y. Rivera can remember “Sometimes the trees have white vania State Athletic Conference West championship teams. so I can help the people of the being a young kid, watching Ken leaves, making the ball hard to see,” He hit .333 this season. Bronx,” Rivera said. Griffey Jr. set home run records Rivera said. Rivera and the Lakers still have and begging his mother for a pair Rivera could always depend on the dark apartment buildings and ideal backdrop to spot fly balls work to do on the field. The Penn- of Air Griffeys. the giant buildings that compose steel office skyscrapers surround- and stack outs for his high school sylvania State Athletic Conference Now, Rivera majors in finance the concrete jungle of the Bronx. ing Cardinal Hayes baseball dia- team. Tournament begins Wednesday, with a minor in economics, learning During every practice and game, mond provided Rivera with the Even so, Rivera finds little differ- May 2, against Millersville. Potential found on Mercyhurst volleyball team helped her gain experience and rec- leyball. Now, it meant an oppor- has become a way of finding bal- By Reymundo Lariosa ognition. tunity to attend college. However, ance in life. Contributing writer A mixture of hard work, deter- playing for a Div. II school pre- “It makes me be a well-rounded mination and talent enabled the sented major challenges for her. person, not just a book worm. And young player to skip the beginning “You have to be fast, and as a the more I learn about it, the more To the average person, sports year of middle school volleyball, team this past season, we would I fall in love,” Crosby said. are all about entertainment. To the and becoming part of the junior let the other teams come back and Most of the time the average businessman, sports are all about volleyball team. The closer she got win,” Crosby said. person does not realize the complex money, but what is the meaning of to becoming a professional player, To compensate for last season, process that a team, or an individual sports for an athlete? the more she got involved in the the team will practice every day player, must go through in order to In the eyes of Veronica Crosby, sport. during the season for two to three achieve a certain goal. For most of a 6-foot volleyball player at Mer- “I kept playing junior varsity and hours and off-season three times a us, the final product of all the blood cyhurst University, sports are all club at the same time. This led me week for two hours. In addition, the and sweat of the athletes is enter- about “community,” knowing that to make varsity and become a starter team has seen improvement when it tainment, for the businessman it’s her “team will always be there for” as a sophomore, a year earlier than comes to lifting. revenues, but for the athletes them- her. the usual,” Crosby said. “This winter term, we have been selves it is glory. Crosby was raised two hours Eager to obtain Crosby’s solid lifting more than previous years, In order to truly appreciate the away from Erie in Buffalo, N.Y. background in volleyball, Mercy- so our team is getting stronger,” beauty of a sport, one must value At a young age, her parents intro- hurst competed against Clarion Crosby said. the efforts and the sacrifices that duced her to the world of volley- University in persuading the young With tremendous talents lurking athletes must endure and the way ball and inspired her to try out for player into joining the team. in the team, next season seems to they translate all of that into the her middle school team, which she Fortunately for the ’Hurst, be promising. They will look to use field to be successful. Sports Information photo did not make at first. Determined Crosby preferred the Lakers. a disappointing 2011-12 season as Crosby and the volleyball team Veronica Crosby will be a part to climb the ladder to the top, she With new doors open, she gained motivation for the future. hope their sacrifices pay dividends of a promising 2012-13 joined the Junior Leagues, which a more mature perspective of vol- In essence, for Crosby, volleyball next season. volleyball team. Page 12 Sports May 2, 2012 Grace, goaltenders are ‘different breed’ team to a perfect 12-0 record. “Coach Metcalf got me to stop By Spencer Hunt “He taught me to move onto the relying on being an athlete in goal,” Sports editor next goal and have a short memory,” said Grace. “He got me to focus on Grace said. technique.” The way the team has played thus Grace took the starting job and Goaltenders in any sport are dif- far, Grace’s memory doesn’t need hasn’t looked back since. ferent. They function differently; to be too short. He averages only “It was a big confidence boost something about them doesn’t add 4.87 goals against him each game. when I was named starter,” Grace up. Most of the goaltender’s time If the season ended today, Grace said. is spent isolated, with only their would be the new school record- The key to his success has been thoughts to keep them company. holder, but the record isn’t what he film study. Grace watches film the There isn’t a test to determine is worried about. night before he faces each oppo- what makes a good goalie. You “I don’t pay too much attention nent. either are or you aren’t. to personal stats,” said Grace. “I “I try to study shooting tenden- Men’s lacrosse Coach Chris Ryan think it says more about our defense cies and where the other team likes has been lucky enough to have two in front of me.” to shoot from on the field,” Grace very good goalies back to back. Sometimes there are goals that said. “They are a different breed,” seem like they are going in, and Only once this season has Grace Ryan said. there is nothing a goalie can do not watched film. Before the Dowl- This includes current sophomore about it. Don’t tell that to Grace, ing game, there was bus trouble, goaltender Michael Grace. Even he though. which interrupted his routine. agrees with Ryan. “I try to take the mentality that Grace then had one of his best “Instinctively, you want to jump I could do something to stop any games of the season against the out of the way of a ball going 90 goal,” Grace said. No. 3 team in Div. II, but he won’t mph,” said Grace. “Consistently It is amazing how far Grace has change his routine even after that. doing the opposite probably knocks come in just one year. This time last “I absolutely would not stop a screw loose.” Sarah Hlusko photo Sophomore Michael Grace is second in Div. II with a goals season, he was the fourth goalie on watching film,” said Grace. “I Grace took over the starting role the depth chart. always want to be prepared heading this season following the graduation against average of 4.87. He is the only underclassman in the With Nash graduated, the three into a game.” of starter Zach Nash. This means top five in goals against average. remaining goalies had an open Grace has one more game to that Grace has to fill the shoes of tryout during the fall. Grace was prepare for before the start of the the all-time leader in goals against bring to Mercyhurst. Grace was able to watch the eventually named the starter just playoffs. The final home game of average in school history. “Zach Nash was a very good best goaltender in team history and 10 days before the first game. He the season is against Molloy on Sat- Also, there is the National Cham- goalie,” said Grace. “It was great to learn. It would appear he has picked attributes his improvement in goal urday, May 5, at 1 p.m. pionship banner that Nash helped learn from him for my first year.” up a few tricks, as he has helped the to one of his coaches. Two former Lakers join NFL Kennedy was the focal point By Spencer Hunt of the Lakers offense during the Sports editor 2011 season. He set single-season records in receptions, receiving yards, touchdowns and all-purpose The Mercyhurst football team yards. will have two former players attend- He finished his career second all- ing NFL camps this summer. time in receiving yards and recep- Former defensive captain Ian tions. Kennedy also set the school Wild has signed a free-agent con- record for all-purpose yards per- tract with the Buffalo Bills. game, averaging 118 yards over 36 Star receiver Trevor Kennedy has games. been invited to the Tampa Bay Buc- As a senior, Kennedy was one caneers mini-camp this week. of 22 finalists for the Harlon Hill Wild and Kennedy were integral trophy, given to the top player in to the success of the football pro- Div. II. He was the only receiver. gram the last two years. He also received ECAC offensive The quarterback of the defense, player of the year honors. Wild led the teams in tackles as a Despite both players going Jill Barrile photo senior despite missing the final undrafted, they have a very good Trevor Kennedy, left, and Ian three games of the season. He chance of making their respective Wild, right, are headed to the finished his career with numerous teams as rookies. accolades including the Eastern Wild will contribute as a safety NFL. Kennedy is attending Collegiate Athletic Conference co- and on special teams. Kennedy mini-camp with the Tampa defensive player of the year and will play receiver and kick/punt Bay Bucs. Wild signed a free- academic All-American following returner. agent contract with Buffalo. the 2011 season.