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Vol. 80 No. 13 Mercyhurst College 501 E. 38th St. Erie Pa. 16546 January 31, 2007

Students react to 4x1x4

Gamble’s e-mail encouraging students the term system that we have now was By Joshua Wilwohl to contact him with their thoughts. one of my reasons for coming to Mer- Editor-in-chief Gamble said he has not seen the site, cyhurst,” she said. but knows a petition exists. Freshman Libny Tobar said she sup- The possibility of switching academic Gamble, however, voiced concern ports the change to the 4x1x4 semester calendars from trimesters to 4x1x4 that students do not understand that system. semesters has raised eyebrows with the recommendation of switching “With the change, I will have a better many students. calendars is only the beginning of a opportunity to go home for the holi- Sophomore Steve Faber is an advo- process. days,” she said. “And this will be similar cate of the trimester calendar and began “This is not the end,” he said. “The to other schools.” a Facebook petition against the 4x1x4 next stage is to have the board do a plan Sophomore Maria Morocco said the semester system. to implement (the new calendar).” 4x1x4 semester system is better for Faber says he sees many potential Student opinion on the topic, how- Mercyhurst in the future. problems in switching calendars. ever, varies. “I think it’s good for Mercyhurst in “I don’t think it will be beneficial to Junior Dan McNulty does not see the the long run to get off trimesters, but the college’s appearance as a whole,” reason for changing calendars. I don’t want it to change my senior he said. “I think having it (the calen- “Personally, I don’t see why we year,” she said. dar) switch will affect graduation that need to change the current trimester Senior Jeff Cagle said there is no need year.” system,” he said. “One of the reasons for a calendar change. Faber, who took two months off I came to Mercyhurst was because of “I think trimesters are working out battling cancer, is suppose to graduate trimesters.” well,” he said. winter term 2009 if the school keeps McNulty said he does not see a ben- Cagle noted that administration needs the trimester system. efit in switching to the 4x1x4 semester to focus on more important issues. If a switch to the 4x1x4 system system. “I feel, ultimately, the administration occurs, Faber says he will not graduate “I fail to see how the 4x1x4 gives us and board are really just out of touch until spring 2009. more academics because everything is facebook.com with students and don’t really recognize Faber’s Facebook petition currently the same,” he said. “The January term is The Facebook petition against the 4x1x4 currently has 558 members. our needs,” he said. has 558 members. On the petition’s utterly ridiculous, and is the worst time Cagle also said that administration Web site, Faber stresses students let for people to be in class.” not understand how the system would more efficient to have classes for 14 should get the opinion of the college their opinions be known. Junior Chris Geer shares McNulty’s work. weeks compared to 10. We wouldn’t community before making decisions. “We feel that the decision to move opinion. “It doesn’t make much sense at all,” have to run through things as quickly,” “It would have been nice if the admin- to any semester system, for reasons of “I think that the change to the 4x1x4 she said. “If they are going to change she said. “And we would have a longer istration had asked as many students accommodation to other schools, is system is something that is favored only it, they should just do semesters like Christmas break.” as possible about this idea, along with absolutely PREPOSTEROUS,” states by faculty and a few select students,” he other schools.” Junior Colleen Murray said she does professors, staff, and even alumni to the site’s description. said. “Any student I know is more than Junior Jessica McNurlen said she is not understand the need for such a get as many perspectives as possible,” The petition’s site also gives Mer- happy with the trimester system.” for the change. change. he said. cyhurst College President Thomas Junior Amanda Kaiser said she does “I think it would be a lot better and “I don’t really agree with it because Please see Students on page 3 MC takes next step in Strategic Plan

of information about Mercyhurst Col- Gamble, President of Mercyhurst By Jessica Kocent lege from a number of constituencies, College and Dr. Barbara Behan, Vice News editor including faculty, staff, alumni, students President of Academic Affairs. All six and community members. academic deans were also present, in The Visioning Conference was held The purpose of this conference was addition to Dr. Randy Clemons, Dr. on Jan. 28-29 at the Renaissance Quail to take all of this information and David Livingston, Dr. Mary Ann Owoc, Hollow Resort in Painesville, Ohio. decide what plans and strategies should and Dr. Leanne Roberts, all faculty rep- This Visioning Conference was the be implemented to better Mercyhurst resentatives. Dan Schuler, Ryan Palm, next step in the Strategic Planning pro- College and what resources will be nec- Elise Yablonsky and Christina Coovert cess, which began at the beginning of essary to make these plans a reality. represented the student body. the 2006-2007 academic year. “We hope to further the strategic dia- There were also a number of rep- This site was chosen in order to give logue and to move the college forward resentatives from Mercyhurst North the participants a chance to focus on the toward the development of a concrete East present. tasks at hand, without being bothered Institutional Strategic Plan,” said Dr. with their day-to-day affairs. Heidi Hosey, Vice President of the Thus far, the Strategic Planning Strategic Plan. Please see Conference on page 3 Committee has gathered 5,000 pieces Those present included, Dr. Thomas

Andy Finkel Photo Students make their phone calls in the Tullio Room. Campus news briefs

Compiled by editorial staff/from mercyhurst.edu Phon-a-thon raises Intel faculty, students was funded by a Mercyhurst College Spurred by the popularity of the attend conference on Academic Enrichment Grant. smash television hit, which pairs ‘ethics and intelligence’ professional dancers with celebrities $55,406 so far Three faculty members and six Murder mystery dinner in a challenging dance competition, “make a phone call.” These phone calls students from the Mercyhurst Col- SAC will host a Murder Mystery the students will begin their eve- By Kate Collins are different. lege Intelligence Studies Department dinner on Friday, Feb. 2 at 7 p.m. in ning with a seven-course supper in Contributing writer They are geared toward obtaining a recently traveled to the Washington, the Egan Cafeteria. Mercyhurst’s Grotto Dining Room at donation for the school so they must D.C., area to participate in the Second 5:30 p.m. and follow it with a grand Each year, Mercyhurst College puts be conducted properly. Zinram stressed International Conference on The Dance competition ball – An Evening at Lake Como – in on an annual phone-a-thon. This year that he does not script the calls. They Ethics of National Security Intelli- SAC will host the Wade Robinson the Carolyn Herrmann Student Union has been no different. are written in a “cheesy” manner to get gence. The conference was organized Project dance contest on Saturday, at 7:30 p.m. Started by Gary Bukowski in the fall a point across. by the International Intelligence Feb. 3 at 9:30 p.m. in the Walker of 1980, Mercyhurst’s advancement “If you were to call me and read this Ethics Association (IIEA). Recital Hall. ‘Shadowing’ program set office has sponsored this yearly event. word for word, I would not donate,” Department chair Jim Breckenridge for Groundhog Day The phon-a-thon kicked off on Jan. he said. The script really just provides a presented “Teaching Ethics and Intel- ‘Dancing stars’ from On Groundhog Day, Friday, Feb. 2, 21 and is expected to run, at the latest, guideline for students to start a friendly, ligence,” assistant professor Stephen Iroquois High waltz onto Mercyhurst College will give a group until Feb. 6. conversational phone call that will put Marrin presented “Ethics, Profession- campus of Erie middle school students the So far, $55,406 has been raised. the receiver at ease. That’s important. alism, and Codes in the Intelligence A sure-footed group of Iroquois chance to predict something far more The night begins with a 30-minute You want to “talk to the caller” and Community,” and assistant professor High School students will put two important than the weather – their training session led by Steve Zinram, start a conversation. David Grabelski presented “Local months of ballroom dancing les- own futures. Director of the Annual Fund. The training session ends with a ses- Policing and Intelligence Ethics.” sons, a seminar on etiquette and a Nearly 25 seventh- and eighth-grade The training session includes a brief sion in how to fill out all the proper The students, who served as record- lesson on dressing dos and don’ts students from Jefferson Elementary background and history of what the forms and thank you letters that donors ers for 30 different discussion sessions, to the ultimate test when they unveil School, who have researched careers phon-a-thon really is, its purpose, its will receive at the end of the process. were Kyle Horvath, Heather Horst, their own version of “Dancing with they might like to pursue, will shadow goals and its past accomplishments. Cameron Ives, Cory Kutcher, Scott the Stars” at Mercyhurst College on Mercyhurst students on the same It also includes a briefing on how to See Phon-a-thon on page 2 Melligan, and Angela Merski. The trip Friday, Feb. 2. career paths. PAGE 2 THE MERCIAD January 31, 2007

NEWS To contact: [email protected] Police and Safety Log

World Briefs January 17 January 23 International news Disorderly Conduct Larceny/Theft Parking Lot #7 Hammermill Library Compiled by Three dead in Israel Closed Closed Jessica Kocent suicide bomb College Discipline From BBC News January 26 A suicide bomber has killed January 18 Larceny/Theft three people in the southern Is- Criminal Mischief Mercy Suites 300 raeli resort of Eilat - one of the 3909 Lewis Ave. Closed country’s most popular tourist Closed destinations. January 26 The explosion hit the Lehamim January 20 Criminal Mischief bakery in a residential area at 9:40 College Violation/ 3937 Briggs Ave. a.m., killing the owner and two Drug Paraphenalia Open employees. 3908 Briggs Ave. Pending Investigation Three Palestinian militant Closed groups said they were behind College Discipline January 27 the attack, saying the bomber was Liquor Law Violation from Gaza but had entered the January 20 3829 Lewis Ave. area via neighboring Jordan. Andy Finkel Photo Criminal Mischief Closed It is the first suicide bombing Current Mercyhurst students call alumni for donations. Parking Lot #15 State Citation/ in Israel since April 2006. Closed College Discipline Police said the bomber had entered the shop carrying the Phon-a-thon has January 21 January 28 explosives in a backpack. Wit- Harassment Liquor Law Violation Eilat is a resort town in nesses described a massive blast 4007 Briggs Ave. 3808 Briggs Ave. Israel. which shook the area. raised $55,406 Closed Closed State Citation College Discipline World’s oldest woman dies at age 114 Continued from page 1 which is quite a large feat. But January 21 January 28 The world’s oldest person, Emma Faust Tillman, has died in the also this year, Mercyhurst Stu- 3908 Briggs Ave. Liquor Law Violation U.S. aged 114. Then calling sessions begin. dent Government took a night, Harassment Baldwin Hall Tillman, the daughter of former slaves, died “peacefully” on Sunday Each calling session lasts for as well as the cheerleaders and Closed Closed night, said an official at a nursing home in Hartford, Connecticut. two hours. the dance team. Many sports College Disciplne College Discipline Tillman had never smoked or drank, her family and friends said. The goal of each session is teams in the past have also joined She was born on Nov. 22, 1892, on a plantation in North Caro- to raise money for the school, in helping out with the event. January 23 lina. a lot of which will help with Some students also take the Harassment by student scholarships such as the opportunity to fulfill volunteer Communication Sudanese president Egan and Presidential scholar- hours although, according to 3907 Briggs Ave. snubbed by AU ships. Students participating call Zinram, this was more popular in Closed alumni, parents and parents of the past four or five years. Sudan’s President Omar al- alumni for such donations. With the phon-a-thon under Bashir has again been bypassed Zinram also incorporates a way, by this evening, all 11,383 in his bid to become chairman of contest, many of which are spon- people on the calling list will have the African Union because of the sored by alumni, each night. The been called at least once. There conflict in Darfur. contest focuses on who has the have been eight calling sessions Bashir had been due to take on most donations by the end of the so far that have acquired 1,069 the role, but it has instead been night. pledges raising $55,406. given to Ghana’s President John “This isn’t based on dollar “I always tell the kids, obviously Kufuor. amount of course; that wouldn’t you’re raising funds that are help- U.N. chief Ban Ki-moon has be fair,” Zinram said. “This is a ing the students directly but, this held talks with Bashir on a pro- way for the students to have a is also the one time a year that posed joint U.N.-A.U. peace- little fun while making two hours alumni gets to really talk to some- keeping force in Darfur but Mr worth of phone calls.” one from Mercyhurst,” Zinram Bashir remains opposed to U.N. The phon-a-thon is open to all said. “They’re always talkative troops. students but the ambassador’s and polite and what I always tell Bashir has previously agreed bring in the most students by far. alumni is that our students really to the existing A.U. force being Each session, the ambassadors are a good investment and they beefed up, but questions such as Bashir was not considered will send 10-12 representatives, prove it.” the size of the force and who because of the situation in Andy Finkel Photo would lead it have not yet been the Darfur region. New washers and dryers will be a nice improvement to on-campus living. Ex-Bush spokesman at Libby trial Communications Ex-White House spokesman Res Life pushing Ari Fleischer has testified as a prosecution witness at the trial class carrying on of former U.S. vice presidential for new dryers aide Lewis Libby. option for us, because it makes it By Bjorn Alnaes Fleischer said Libby had told much easier to repair, as well as mission of service Contributing writer him over lunch that the wife of a getting new parts if necessary,” prominent Iraq war critic worked says Mixa. at the CIA. crisis when 18 inches of flooding Mercyhurst will look to install Mixa also underlined that the By Elyse Lagana He told the court their con- and sewage filled the basement new washers and dryers over the installment of new equipment Contributing writer versation had happened on June of the building. The administra- summer. will better the laundry situation 7 2003 - before Libby says he tors feel the cost for the plumb- The new equipment is already for the students. learned about the agent. Homelessness is here. That’s ing fix may send the organization guaranteed to be installed in “We are looking to improve That discrepancy is at the heart the new campaign slogan for a down the drain. freshman housing, while ne- the laundry facilities by either of the perjury and obstruction homeless shelter in Erie and it “I can say that as an agency we gotiations are still in effect for installing larger dryers, or several trial of Libby - who denies the was Mercyhurst College students are contributing our very best upperclassman housing. smaller stackable dryers that we charges. who developed it. effort to help meet the needs of The washers and dryers will be can put on top of each other in If found guilty Lewis “Scooter” A communications class is put- those who are homeless in our ready for use at the beginning of order to decrease the lines in the Libby - who was Vice President ting their education to practical community,” said Cancilla, “but fall term. laundry rooms.” Fleischer testified on Dick Cheney’s chief of staff - use by helping a local homeless we were facing a very serious Many students have com- The smaller, stackable dryers Libby’s behalf. could face up to 30 years in jail. shelter better its image in the deficit.” plained about the access to seem to be the preferred option community. CSS hopes that these new washers and especially dryers. among students. Ex-soldier admits to killing entire family The homeless shelter, Commu- changes will be successful and Senior Tiffany Gagne agrees that “The stackable dryers seem nity Shelter Services (CSS), has make the organization more the laundry situation on campus like the best alternative because A former soldier has admitted the manslaughter of four members provided temporary emergency known in the community and leaves much to be desired. it allows for more people to dry of his family, who were found shot dead at the home they shared in shelter, meals and referrals to the increase donations. “There are not enough ma- their laundry at the same time,” Newcastle. homeless of Erie since 1973. It has been a very rewarding chines for us students,” she said. Gagne said. David Bradley, 41, was originally charged with the murders of his The students of the public yet emotional project for the “When some of the machines “Drying takes much longer uncle Peter Purcell, aunt Josie, both 70, and their sons Keith, 44, relations techniques class, taught students in the class. are broken on top of that, it is than washing, and it is therefore and Glen, 41. by Dr. Anne Zaphiris, met with “I’m really glad to be doing it almost impossible to get your essential that we have enough But those charges were dropped when it was found he was men- the executive director of CSS, because they need a lot of help. laundry done.” working dryers when we do our tally ill. Kathleen Cancilla, and the head I feel honored that they chose Mercyhurst currently leases the laundry.” Bradley admitted the manslaughter charges on the grounds of di- of public relations, Denise Koli- Mercyhurst students to do that,” washers and dryers installed in Mixa agrees with Gagne and minished responsibility after two psychiatrists agreed he was mentally vosky, to discuss the current con- said Jessica Shane. student housing, which is about believes that the stackable dryers ill at the time of the killings. cerns of CSS and what changes The final product will be fin- to expire this summer. will be the way to go. the students will make. ished at the end of the term in MSG Residence Life Commit- ‘The stackable dryers will prob- Three killed in Some of these changes will February. The students hope it tee Chair Mihailo Jovanic Mixa ably be more efficient when it Pakistan blast include the organization’s name, will strengthen the Community says this is one of the main rea- comes to decreasing the lines in logo, website, their media ad- Shelter Services’ reputation. sons to install new ones. the laundry rooms,” he said. “By At least three people have vertising and fundraising ideas, The students of Mercyhurst “The lease is about to expire, choosing the stackable ones we been killed and seven injured in as well as possible partnerships. can help by attending their an- and we see this as an ideal time to can have more dryers in the laun- a suicide bombing in north-west The students’ overall goal is to nual spaghetti cook off, Sunday install new ones,” he said. “The dry rooms and thereby decrease Pakistan, police say. give CSS more direction and Feb. 18th from noon to 4 p.m. freshman housing will definitely the lines.” Police say the bomber killed better credibility. at Sabellas. For tickets call 455- have new equipment by the start While a final decision has not himself, a policeman and a civil- It is early in the planning pro- 4369. of fall term, and we are also been made, Mixa assures that ian after he was stopped at a cess. A new name has been Homelessness does exist in working to install new ones in Residence Life will push for the checkpoint in Dera Ismail Khan, chosen, Erie Community Shel- Erie and the community needs upperclassmen housing.” stackable dryers. a town near the Afghan border. ter, and a new logo has been to be aware of it. The students Leasing laundry equipment One thing is certain though; The blast is Pakistan’s third designed. Students are working at Mercyhurst are taking action includes easy access to mechan- next year’s freshman will be met since Friday and comes amid in groups to come up with print and living out the college’s mis- ics and repairs. The new wash- with brand new laundry facili- tight security for Shia Muslim The town is located near material and public service an- sion of compassion and service ers and dryers will therefore be ties. ceremonies this week. the Pakistan Afghanistan nouncements. to others. leased too. border CSS recently experienced a “A leasing contract is the best January 31, 2007 THE MERCIAD PAGE 3

To contact: [email protected] News Adult Ed Dept. responds to 4x1x4 system five classes each term. By Jessica Nulph Craig Smith, a second-year Contributing wrtier adult student at Mercyhurst, is completely against the proposed In recent years the community system. has seen much advertising for “Many adult students, like my- Mercyhurst’s renowned Adult self, are ex-military and came to College, whether it be on the Mercyhurst for the intelligence radio, TV, or the back of a pub- program. lic bus. “We were attracted by the tri- File Photo With the introduction of the mester system, which allows us to Dr. Heidi Hosey proposed 4x1x4 semester system, work full-time. With the new sys- many adult students already at- tem, I won’t be able to graduate Conference tending Mercyhurst say they are on time. There’s no way I could feeling cheated. take five classes each term.” maps out Mercyhurst is popular among Mecyhurst President Dr. adult students because of its Thomas Gamble suggests the future trimester system, which allows system would provide many ben- them to take fewer classes each efits to the students, including the Continued from page 1 term so they may work full- ability to align the sports calendar time and spend time with their with other schools, an increase in This panel discussed every- families. study abroad opportunities, and thing from the improvement Academic Adviser for the more opportunity for on-site CREDIT/Photo editor of instructional technology, to Adult College, Donelle Davey, internships and service learning. Caption an improvement to student and says the adult students have sev- Unfortunately, few of these ideas residence life, and financial sta- eral concerns with the proposed benefit adult students. do now if I had to go back to a it’s not the times the classes will lent faculty and great academic bility and the expansion of the schedule, most notably with the Adult students, like traditional semester system.” said Kristen be offered, but the amount of reputation. Mercyhurst name. amount of time it would take to students, would be provided McCauley. classes she would have to take. Smith finds it hard to keep an While these goals have been a graduate. with the opportunity to explore According to Davey, if Mercy- Details of the proposed system open-mind when such a system is part of the Mercyhurst commu- “Adult students perceive they subjects in greater depth, but the hurst does switch to the 4x1x4 continue to be worked out and a going to interfere with his future nity for a while now, the Vision- can complete their degrees in benefits end there; many adult system, the Adult College will decision on whether to switch to plans, though. ing Conference will ensure that a shorter amount of time at students say that is not enough. respond by expanding evening the 4x1x4 system won’t be made “I don’t think Mercyhurst and the goals are pertinent and that Mercyhurst, especially if they’re Adult transfer student Kristen and weekend classes, as well as for some time. If selected, the Dr. Gamble have taken into they receive the correct amount taking classes on a part-time ba- McCauley says the current tri- including an additional acceler- system may go into effect as early consideration the power the of attention and funding. sis. They take only two classes mester system works for her. ated class during the week, prob- as the 2008-2009 academic year. students have in running this Ryan Palm said, “The entire each term and one during the “I transferred from a school ably on Tuesdays. Davey reminds students to, “try school. I think if it’s approved, group did a great job of map- summer, which gives them 21 based on the semester system. She hopes this would appeal to to remain open-minded and try there will be protest and a decline ping out in a broad sense where credits a year. At first it was hard to get used the adult students who generally to gather as much information in attendance. We are not Dr. Mercyhurst will go in the next The proposed system would to, but now I think it’s beneficial take advantage of these classes as possible as it becomes avail- Gamble’s subordinates and his 5-10 years.” probably require adult students because we are learning only the which tend to work around their able.” decision not to consult us before Palm continued, “It was excit- to take at least three classes each important aspects of a concept busy schedules. She believes the college will proposing this system shows his ing to see such a wide gathering term as a part-time student.” said and have to deal with only three Not all adult students have a continue to attract adult students arrogance.” of people. As a student, I valued Donelle Davey. or four finals as opposed to six set, 9-5 job, however, and of- based on its ability to provide that there were so many groups Full-time students would prob- or seven. I don’t think I would ten have to work evenings and a life-changing experience for represented unlike other Strate- ably be required to take four or be able to work full-time as I weekends. McCauley notes that adult students through its excel- gic Plans in the past.” Students voice opinions Continued from page 1 of a change. ing into other possible affects MC Health Center He noted that there is a plan for the new calendar will have on “I also feel that the adminis- a forum in the spring when stu- enrollment. tration, and more importantly dents can voice their opinions. “This system is easier to trans- readies for flu season the board of trustees, should be “We owe it to the students to fer into Mercyhurst,” he said. worried about other things rather have venues to ask questions,” “But, we need to look at the ex- than this change.” said Gamble. “We will be lis- perience of other schools to try out, the health center can help in choosing vaccine distribution By Nicole Cerilli Mercyhurst Student Govern- tening to all voices as the plan and determine what the affects out with the symptoms. Eating dates for the future. Contrinuting writer ment President Dan Schuler said continues.” would be.” and drinking problems associ- The Women’s Fair will take MSG is working on plans to get Students are still concerned Gamble also noted that the ated with illnesses are some- place campus wide on March student opinion. that such a change will greatly number of courses in majors and This year’s flu season is off to thing that can be addressed. 23. In conjunction with the “We are going to work in con- affect enrollment and classes. electives won’t be affected. a late start, but the Mercyhurst In order to avoid illness, the counseling center, the health junction with the administration Gamble says he is taking the “Since the system is based on health center staff remains health center staff stresses the center will address issues con- to setup town hall meetings with “great things about Mercyhurst” three credit courses, the number active. importance of washing your cerning diabetes and alcohol freshmen where administrators and improving them. of classes will stay the same.” Flu season typically begins hands. during this event. would meet with them,” he said. “My obligation is to act in the Gamble emphasized that stu- in early January, but this year “We tell students to wash Blood sugar tests will be of- “There is also likely to be one or best interest of the college, and dents should not be so quick to it is not anticipated to start their hands until they have sung fered at booths. Also, the event multiple town forums in the next I believe the longer terms is the judge the new semester system. until the end of the month. ‘Happy Birthday’ twice,” said will allow students to look at few months.” best (calendar),” he said. “Eighty Schuler agreed. The late start is a nationwide Christine Dimperio, RN. nutrition and the diabetic pro- According to Gamble, Pub- to 85 percent of colleges have “There’s not a whole lot of trend that can be explained by Viruses live on everything our cess. Counselors will present to lic Relations Director Megan terms longer than 10 weeks.” information out there right now,” warmer-than-average weather hands come in contact with. answers students’ questions. Corbin is developing a commu- According to Gamble, the he said. “So, it’s hard for students this winter. Therefore, hand sanitizer can Right now, the health center nication plan to reach the college 4x1x4 system will affect trans- to render an opinion.” In the fall, the health center come in handy. People should staff is also working to educate community about the possibility fers, but the school is still look- distributed 650 influenza vac- also be mindful of covering students about the new Human cines, and so far they have not their mouth and nose when Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, seen anyone who was vacci- they sneeze or cough to keep which came in out June. nated return with the flu. their germs from spreading said They are helping students to Verizon donates to LD However, despite the flu de- Dimperio. learn more about the virus and lay, other viruses are circulating Recently, the majority of the the vaccine through bulletin through the nation and affect- health center’s patients have boards, hand-outs, and one-on- By Amy Zielinski ing Mercyhurst students. been seniors, many of whom one education. Contributing writer Fevers and sinus infections are paying their first visit to the Looking ahead to fall term have been common nuisances health center in four years. 2007, the health center is plan- New technology will help stu- to students this winter. In ad- “This is not uncommon for ning a meningitis clinic to oc- dents who are in the Mercyhurst dition, the “stomach flu” ac- this time of year,” said Dim- cur on Sept. 13 to educate the College Learning Differences companied with dehydration perio “It is a big crunch time incoming freshmen class. Program, thanks to a $10,000 has plagued the community. for seniors. The pressure is on, It is important for Mercyhurst grant from the Verizon Founda- The health center wants stu- they have a lot to do, and they students to know that all vac- tion. dents to know that if they are are very stressed.” cines distributed by the health Gary Bukowski, Vice President feeling sick, they should go to In addition to addressing center are free of charge. for Institutional Advancement, the health center as soon as viruses and infections, the Dimperio said that in the became interested in the involve- possible. health center staff has been future, the health center would ment of the LD program, when Although the remedy for active in coordinating events like to see more outreach on he realized Verizon had money some viruses is to wait them and programs for students and campus. to offer for technology. The LD program offers tech- nology like Kurzweil, a program to help convert text to audio and textbooks on tape. Although the HOUSE FOR RENT LD program currently has sta- CRIMINAL DEFENSE tions set up with the Kurzweil including available for summer, program, it can now be expanded with the grant money. UNDERAGE DRINKING AND DUI fall and spring rental Dianne Rogers, director of Photo by Amy Zielinski learning differences, thinks that Erin Petri, senior marriage and family major, uses the Kurz- 1 block from Mercyhurst many students have improved weil program in the Learning Differences classroom. on 146 E. 38th St. their reading skills because of the Kurzweil program. Rogers would also like to see to 150 students on Mercyhurst’s Features: “Many students found they are part of the money to be used for Erie and North East campuses. - Central Air spending so much time reading training the LD staff in regards Rogers would like to help more Andrew H. Weinraub, Esquire - Dishwasher and they did not have time to to technology. students and is excited to see - 4 Bedrooms do the actual studying” said “Things we did not know improvement. Bernard Stuczynski & Bonanti Rogers. about are coming and there are In the future, the LD program 234 West Sixth Street - Garbage disposal Rogers would not only like to so many new changes” Rogers would like to apply for more Erie, PA 16507-1319 - Washer & Dryer use the money for additional said. “Because the technology grants. Many organizations are 814-452-6232 Kurzweil programs, but other is so quickly emerging we do not realizing the impact technology 1-800-999-0750 For more information: technology as well. High speed know how to utilize it to the best has on people with disabilities. Call after 7 PM scanners, laptop computers and of our ability.” “There are so many things Fax: 814-454-7488 adaptive equipment are just a few The LD program has helped computers can do to assist with Email: [email protected] Home: 452-0124 tools she feels would benefit the more than 250 students graduate disabilities” Rogers said. students. and currently provides support VISIT US at www.BSBlegalhelp.com Cel: 434-5717 PAGE 4 THE MERCIAD January 31, 2007 CAMPUS Living To contact: [email protected] Hangovers: one of college Art creates friendships students’ archenemies Katie McAdams/Photo editor

ing to bed is the key to waking up the morning.” By Jen Gildea without a hangover. This therapy tactic seems curi- Contributing writer “Water helps to eliminate de- ous; however, it has been specu- hydration in the morning. I also lated that consuming even more It’s no secret that the consump- snack on some ‘munchies’ before of the same alcohol than the tion of alcohol affects the human bed and that helps me to not feel night before will overcome a body. For some, alcohol causes like a deadbeat the next day,” hangover. This is frequently drowsiness; for others, giddiness. said Tudi. referred to as the “hair of the Still for others, alcohol affects Junior Nick Giallourakis agrees dog” remedy, shortened from the the senses, reflexes and common with Tudi. English expression, “the hair of sense. “I keep a water bottle by my the dog that bit you.” Turning 21 is something that all bed to drink in the middle of the No matter the approach to college students look forward to. night when I wake up with a dry getting rid of a hangover, the Then, it’s finally “safe” to drink, mouth and throat,” he says. only true way to get sober is to and even go out with friends. Doctors and scientists seem let the hangover ride its course. Although the fun of drinking to agree, as well, saying that the The alcohol must pass through and the luxury of being legal ethanol in alcohol has a dehydrat- the liver and out of the body seem exciting, the consequences ing effect, and that drinking water before the symptoms can truly of drinking too much often pre- after consumption can have an disappear. vail over the benefits. In addition alleviating effect on the body. While they’re there, however, to the dangers of binge drinking, Many students responded that the hangover symptoms can be people risk a much more com- popping a pain reliever, such as burdensome. mon side effect: the dreaded Advil or Tylenol, before bed aid- “Hangovers suck!” says senior hangover. ed in warding off a headache. Kate Collins. “They really take Hangovers are a mixture of “I usually take one at night, away from the next day and I unpleasant reactions to the intake then one in the morning, and eat personally lose a lot of motiva- of too much alcohol. Typically some toast. That helps with the tion to do anything.” the physical characteristics of headache part of a hangover,” To get rid of a hangover, Col- a hangover include headache, said Wagner. lins says that she “sleeps mostly. nausea, lethargy, sensitivity to Another cause of hangovers Sleep is the best cure for me.” light and noise and thirst. that Tudi mentioned was that she Other students noted that sleep Lasting on average from 12 to prefers to drink red wine. Wine is very beneficial to getting rid of 36 hours, hangovers can range has been known to cause a slight- a hangover. from minor to major, often de- ly different type of hangover than “When all else fails, sometimes pending on how much alcohol other forms of alcohol. you just have to sleep it off,” said was consumed. For this reason, The “Red Wine Headache” that Giallourakis. Photos by Camille Nischal perhaps one of the most com- many people are familiar with can Although it might be hard to The Art Education students have been teaching clay lessons in the Mercyhurst mon times for young adults to take effect within 15 minutes of avoid the symptoms once a hang- College art studios for Erie County students after school as part of the Mercyhurst experience a major hangover is drinking a single glass. Accom- over is already in effect, the best College Americorps VISTA Service Learning diversity grant. after their 21st birthdays. panying this headache is often way to prevent them altogether Junior Chrissie Wagner remem- flushing of the cheeks. is simply to limit the amount of bers her 21st birthday this past It is curious as to why certain alcohol consumed. October. alcohols affect people in different O’Shurak sums it up well, stat- “On my birthday, I discovered ways. Junior Danny O’Shurak ing, “I don’t really think there that hangovers are worse when says that he only gets hangovers is any real way to try to prevent you’re awake and they kick in,” when mixing liquor and beer; hangovers; you just can’t drink Wagner said. “But I took some beer alone does not give him a too much.” Advil and drank some water, and hangover. While the effects of a hangover then I felt a little better.” “One way that I’ve found that are nowhere near pleasant, it Water seems to be the common helps to get rid of a hangover is is important to remember that thread between many students to go and have a drink of what- drinking too much, or binge in the effort to curb a nasty ever it was that I was drinking drinking, can have serious con- hangover. the night before,” O’Shurak said. sequences and is dangerous for Senior Rebecca Tudi notes that “If I was drinking beer the night people of any age. drinking lots of water before go- before, I’ll have another beer in Dancing all over the world chicken wraps, tuna, asparagus By Angie Pascoe and bran cereal. Contributing writer James is shocked at how much more energy she has now that she Sarah James, a senior dance has revamped her diet. major and arts administration “I just feel so much healthier minor, is working on auditioning without all that poison running for professional dance companies Photo by Richard Hardwick/Mercyhurst.edu through my body,” she said. around the world. After losing four pounds in A grand pas de chat. For now, James dances with the last two weeks, James would Lake Erie Ballet, a small profes- Ballet. agree that her new regimen is sional ballet company. “I would like to audition with going successfully. “I want to expand my career so more companies but right now I Along with eating healthier, I’m auditioning with the [Lake have to sit down and figure out James has also been putting time Erie Ballet] company and inter- my budget,” James said. “Every- in at the Fitness Center. nationally,” said James. where I audition costs money to She teaches a Pilates class four At the end of February, James travel there. I would love to do days a week. After her class she will travel to Amsterdam to au- them all!” likes to stay and walk on the dition for the Dutch National To prepare for her auditions, treadmill for a mile everyday. Ballet and the Scapino Ballet she has put herself on a more James also has rehearsal four Rotterdam. strict diet and workout routine to six days a week, depending on Some American companies than what she usually follows. how close she is to a performance that she will audition for include She has completely cut out all or audition. Festival Ballet, Miami City Ballet, sweets and alcohol. Some of her Ballet Florida and Washington favorite meals include grilled Peek ‘n’ Peak cures winter-time blues

to Thursday can get student Obviously, life long memories By Kylie Winans passes for $19, you can also rent are made on the slopes when Contributing writer equipment for less than $30 if you’re just having fun with your you don’t have your own. friends. This winter, when classes let Freshman David Leake says, If you can’t get out to Peek ‘n’ out for the day, everyone is head- “The peak is gnarly!” Peak or another resort, there is a ing to the slopes for skiing and He and his friends spend most place to test out your skills and snowboarding. of their time learning new tricks have a good time without even Skiing and snowboarding are to do on their boards. leaving campus. a great way to stay active during “I love grinding rails, riding In between the parking garage the cold months, when there boxes, and hitting rad jumps,” and Briggs Avenue, there is a isn’t much else you can be doing said freshman David Giarizzo. small student made snowboard- outside. “Peek ‘n’ Peak can be awesome ing park. Students can walk over !!! !!! !!! <_Wº

AE3337 College ROP_merciad.indd 1 1/23/07 4:28:10 PM January 31, 2007 THE MERCIAD PAGE 5 CAMPUS To contact: [email protected] Living Soul-warming recipes

All the ingredients are most healthy and can be changed to carbohydrates. likely around your house some- match any taste. The chicken is If you do not like some of where or very easy to get at the healthy and not fried like you the vegetables that I have added With Meg grocery store for a fraction of would see at most restaurants. here you can substitute them for the price of a meal out. Also the fresh vegetables are something that you like. Also Also this meal is very easy and a great way to get vitamins and what you want to add to your can feed a lot of people. I make minerals and they add a lot to sauce is up to you; the sky is and Kyle it on the weekend so that I have the flavor of the sauce. If you the limit. some garlic bread, which you enough for leftovers during the are really feeling adventurous You can add garlic, more of a can make yourself, or buy a loaf week when I do not have time and extra-healthy serve it over certain kind of vegetable or even at the grocery store. to cook. whole wheat pasta, which is a cheese to your Italian chicken. This meal is a great way to eat great source of fiber and good This meal is great served with

Italian Chicken

Ingredients Equipment 2 Large chicken breasts (cubed) Skillet 1 Whole onion (diced) 2 Large pots 1 Whole green pepper (diced) Stove 1 Package precut mushrooms 1 Jar spaghetti sauce Olive oil Oregano Basil

Directions 1. Coat the bottom of the skillet with olive oil and heat for a few minutes on medium heat. Then add the cubed pieces of chicken and cook until they are done all the way through and are browned. 2. In the large pot add a little bit of olive oil and all of the vegetables and cook until they are tender. When they are done add the spaghetti sauce. Heat this, while stirring occasionally, until the spaghetti sauce is hot. 3. While the sauce is getting hot and the chicken is being cooked boil water on the stove for your pasta and follow the directions on the side of the box. 4. When the chicken is cooked all the way through add it to the sauce and vegetables and spice it with the oregano and basil to your own taste. 5. Pour the chicken and veggies with the sauce over your pasta.

Fine Italian cuisine Soldiers like this 8th at the best Cavalry trooper will I benefit from the price in town lacrosse team’s is located on effort. ERI 38th St. at Nunzi’s Picture by 8th Cavalry Organization Lacrosse gives to US troops Now owned by Betsy Cilladi, By Adam Hicks supportive of the lacrosse team’s a blind eye to that.” Ryan said. Contributing writer she proudly states that, “the By Lakyn Bianco involvement with the ASA. Ryan has been communicating same recipes are still used for Contributing writer making all the dishes; nothing “Responses have been a real with the 3-8 through e-mail. If you have ever been on 38th is prepackaged here at Nunzi’s positive. It is nice to see,” he “There is a sense of pride that Street looking for a restaurant Place.” The Mercyhurst men’s lacrosse said. comes out of it, and it is conta- that offers nicely priced and Everything from the breaded team is going to Iraq—in heart Anyone who would like to gious. It make things come back filling meals at a reasonable zucchini to the meatballs and and spirit anyway. Thanks to donate items for the soldiers can to center,” Ryan said. price then look no more. ravioli is made with pride in Photos by Adam Hicks head coach Chris Ryan, the drop them off at the men’s la- The ASA Organization began The solution to your culinary the restaurant. Nunzi’s Place sign. team has become involved in the crosse office located in the lower in 1967 with the goal of raising quest is at Nunzi’s Place on Nunzi’s Place also makes 140 America Supporting Americans level of Baldwin Hall near the troop morale in Vietnam. The 2330 E. 38th St. gallons of sauce a week from Jeralinn Roche, “the best meat (ASA) organization. communications department. Adopt-A-Unit Program of the The restaurant has been top-grade tomatoes, which raviolis in town-very plump The players, parents and sup- Ryan and the lacrosse program ASA establishes a relationship owned and operated by the they sell at $4.50 per quart and and flavorful.” porters of the men’s lacrosse will send the care packages to between civic and community same family since 1953. $2.50 per pint. The restaurant also has 12- team have donated personal Iraq on Feb. 2, but they will ac- groups with specific military In addition to a long tradi- The restaurant is open Mon- inch sub sandwiches ranging items to send to the soldiers of A cept materials after that date to units in order to establish a tion of supporting the com- day through Thursday from from $3 to $8 and whole spe- Company 3-8 Calvary of the U.S. send later. strong, supportive connection. munity with great Italian food, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday cialty pizzas, including Philly Army stationed at Ford Hood, The team first became inter- The men’s lacrosse team has the family also has roots at and Saturday from 11 a.m. to cheese steak and a seafood Texas and currently deployed ested in the ASA in December been linked with the 3-8 this Mercyhurst, with junior Mike midnight, and Sunday from 11 pizza, for $7 to $9. in Iraq. when Ryan attended the Inter- way. Cilladi in the Intelligence Stud- a.m. to 9 p.m. and also offers a On the weekends the food The men’s lacrosse program Collegiate Lacrosse Association According the ASA’s Website, ies program. banquet hall and bar. at the restaurant gets a little encourages all of the Mercy- Conference in Baltimore. the units deployed count on Although Nunzi’s Place was The menu at Nunzi’s Place crazier, with unique sauces and hurst community to participate “I saw a t-shirt that said ‘sup- care packages and letters from founded over 50 years ago by comprises appetizers such as specials to entice customers to in this cause and donate items port our troops’ and my radar their linked community group Carmella and Michael, who breaded mushrooms and fan- try new and unique culinary for the team to include in care went up,” Ryan said. to boost their morale and feel later passed it on to their tastic fried zucchini. creations. packages. He found the booth for the connected with home. children, ownership of the The entrees are great too, These more unique house “People have offered every- ASA, met with the head of the Ryan hopes that the men’s restaurant is now in its third with, homemade lasagna for specials include the Shrimp thing from toothbrushes and organization, Linda Patterson, lacrosse program can continue generation and still practices $7.25, and according to wait- fra Diablo for $8.95, and the razors to old magazines and and was immediately interested to support the troops in the the same traditions from its ress and long-time employee stuffed pasta with red lobster money for postal to send to the in getting the Mercyhurst men’s future. early beginnings. vodka sauce, also for $8.95. 3-8,” Ryan said. lacrosse team involved. “We don’t want to be one-hit- When asked about the res- The lacrosse team, along with “Personally I’ve always wanted wonders. I don’t want to send the taurant, senior Adriana Sim- an elementary class from El- to do something for our troops. packages and forget about these one said, “I’ve been coming bridge, NY, has written letters As a coach of 40, I thought, if guys. As long as these men and here since freshman year. I to the soldiers to be included in you have the ability to help it women are over there, we will am very spoiled when it comes the care packages. is difficult not to do anything,” support them,” he said. to Italian food, and this is the Ryan emphasized that the he said. “We hope that people will join best.” soldiers would especially appre- Ryan found importance in in. It’s a great cause and a mes- Senior Gina Christoffersen ciate phone cards to call home showing support for the men sage of support and recognition agreed with Adriana saying to the U.S. and women in Iraq, especially for what people are doing for us. that, “I started going here The team also sends a Mercy- since many of the soldiers are We appreciate all the help, and because of her; I love Italian hurst College flag and an auto- the same age as traditional col- I’m sure the 3-8 appreciates the food and family places. Nun- graphed lacrosse helmet. lege students. thoughts, prayers and anything zi’s Place has great food.” “We talk about how at Mer- “It is sobering to think about we can offer them,” Ryan said. If you are looking for great cyhurst we are experiencing a what these men and women The lacrosse team will soon Italian food at a reasonable liberal arts education, and how are doing. We worry about our sell t-shirts commemorating the price, that comes complete this will take you places. Well, macroeconomics test or whether 3-8. They hope to raise enough with a wonderful mom-and- I guess the Mercyhurst men’s it’s going to snow tonight, and money to send a shirt to every pop atmosphere, you should lacrosse team will be in Iraq bigger decisions are being made member of the unit. check out Nunzi’s Place somehow,” Ryan said. in far way places. You have to Nunzi’s offers a full menu of Italian specialties. So far the college has been respect that fact. It’s hard to turn PAGE 6 THE MERCIAD January 31, 2007

OPINION To contact: [email protected] Sportscenter for Women

Ladies, you know the drill. You and your room- try on our outfits (complete with shoes, accessories mates go to the bar on a Friday night. You wake up and coats), plan how we’re going to wear our hair, the next morning and all your friends gather in one rehearse potential conversations in our head and room, the hostess usually still lying in bed, getting plan which roommate is going to carry the apart- up only to ment key or who’s going to sleep where. check her AIM mes- sages. Each Jessica of you takes Lamb When did turns telling the play-by- “going out on play of last night’s events, Contributing writer specifically Friday night those involv- ing cute guys. become a sport? These conversations aren’t a mere recap of who ” said what. The “…and then he said….and then I MCT said…” simply won’t do here. Before you know it, the five-minute conversation you had with a guy Democratic presidential hopeful John Edwards is one of many candidates already hitting turns into a 15 minute account with your friends; the campaign trail. you tell them not only what was said, but explain Isn’t this overkill? Why do we waste so much his physical gestures and tone in his voice as well, energy on guys when there’s no guarantee of a not to mention extraneous background noises. date, a phone number exchange or even a simple Taking a step back from this weekly ritual, I real- conversation? Ladies, we’re better than this. It’s Too soon for campaigning ized that women aren’t that different from men; one thing to want to look nice for our own self- they would like to see a strong Congress as opposed we just apply the madness to different arenas. confidence; it’s another to do it to attract men (who By Chelsea Boothe to an imperial presidency. Frankly, it seems unac- For example, women analyze a single five-minute will probably end up being jerks to us anyway). Campus Living editor ceptable. I want the congressmen and women to conversation with a guy they’re interested in just And here’s a news flash: they really don’t care about do their current jobs and make a difference in the like men analyze a single play in a football game: our footwear. Candidates for presidential election are being positions they have been elected to right now. I rehashing each move and intricately studying the Do guys know about our weekly ritual of practic- announced, but wait, it’s only January of 2007. realize the presidential campaign is important, but body language of the opponent. It’s like Sportscen- ing for the big game and then analyzing its “plays” An article I read in the New York Times on Jan. why wait two years to make a difference, when ter for women. afterward? I’m beginning to realize why they think 22, discussed the incredibly quick start of the next When did going out on a Friday night become a we’re so crazy…it’s because we are. presidential election. At first I did not understand sport? If you’re still not convinced, consider this: why this was newsworthy. I mean what can it hurt Women even attend practice for the weekend. We to get the issues out there, to weed out the weak I am candidates and to have a politically heightened “ next few years? disappointed by Then, I read that the cost of running will now be Despite slur, let ‘Grey’s’ star keep his job increased by the millions. And, even more upset- both the money ting, most of the candidates are in Congress. The had to do was appear on stage with Elton John at article said that running this early will be “distract- being wasted By Kenyon Farrow the Grammy’s and he was given a free pass. MCT newspapers ing them from legislative business and drawing Isaiah Washington is not perfect but he can be news coverage away from Congress and out onto and Congress forgiven. In 1996, he played a gay character dealing the campaign trail.” “Grey’s Anatomy” star Isaiah Washington may with homophobia from other black men in Spike Both of these issues are very upsetting. First of potentially losing lose his job for using an anti-gay slur against a co- Lee’s film “Get On the Bus.” When promoting that all, campaigns are already too expensive; it creates star. But Washington has done enough apologizing film, Washington spoke frankly about the need for a financial debate as opposed to a debate about its focus. and should be allowed to keep his job. the black community to embrace its gay brothers real issues. Furthermore, starting this early might Washington was foolish for using or possibly and sisters. exclude several excellent candidates who simply repeating the slur at a recent Golden Globe press I was in my early 20s then, and this was an im- won’t be able to afford to run. Instead of spend- your constituency elected you” in November to start conference, especially after trying to deny that he portant statement for me. ing millions of dollars on running I would rather changing things now? used the term in the first place. As a black gay man, I felt I was being affirmed see that money go to actually making a difference. I am disappointed by both the money being But afterward, he publicly apologized to his publicly by another black man. I mean we have an enormous deficit, public educa- wasted and Congress potentially losing its focus. I castmates, the show’s fans and the lesbian and gay This must not have been an easy thing for Wash- tion in this country is pathetic in many cities and my would rather see news on changes being made cur- community “for using a word that is unacceptable ington to do 11 years ago, and things are not any generation will have absolutely no Social Security; rently, because if we wait another two years, more in any context or circumstance.” better now. yet millions of dollars are spent on fund-raising. lives will be lost, more children will be forgotten Washington is now reportedly seeking counseling In an industry with so few roles for black actors, And now even more will be directed there. and more mistakes will be made. after the controversy. And he recently met with black A-listers have passed up scripts featuring Secondly, this last congressional election pointed the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation black gay characters because many of them con- out just how much Americans want to see a change (GLAAD) and with the Gay, Lesbian and Straight sider taking the roles to be career suicide. in government and, personally at least, how much Education Network (GLSEN). Now, more than a decade later, the gay commu- But this scandal is proof that there is still a double nity is calling for Washington’s head. standard when it comes to blacks who break certain There are several petitions floating across the social mores. Internet asking for his ouster. Janet Jackson’s latest album suffered poor sales But is it better to make the actor accountable Make college affordable presumably because of the wardrobe malfunction for his actions and assist him in helping end his three years ago, while her blouse-ripping cohort homophobia, or do we get him fired and, at this Students considering higher education can face Justin Timberlake was given a clean slate and has point, possibly blacklisted? By Yolanda Chavez Leyva many obstacles. enjoyed strong sales. This could leave him even more isolated and MCT newspapers Paying for college is often high on the list. Last A few years ago, white rapper Eminem was called marginalized for something he has already admitted fall the Commission on the Future of Higher into question for his homophobic lyrics, but all he was an error in judgment. College affordability is big deal. Just ask my Education issued a report that said that rising costs students. discourage students from entering college. I teach at a university where 75 percent of the The fear of high debt inhibits others from con- students work to put themselves through school. sidering college. Organization: useful but not necassary The majority of students are the first generation But a college degree is directly correlated with in their families to attend college and, each day, higher earnings, and, in the past two decades, the Since January first, the day we began our New Overall, I think it is important to note that re- many of them juggle school, work and family difference has grown. Year’s resolutions, I’m sure many people have gardless of your organizational skills, if you work obligations. In 1980, males with a college degree earned 19 backed out of what they promised. efficiently and complete a task then tidiness is not They come to the university with the pro- percent more than males with a high school diplo- One common resolution is to get organized in always necessary. found hope that ma, according to the New Year; in fact The National Association of Generally people work best in an environment in higher education the Department Professional Organizers has declared January as the which they are comfortable. If clutter makes you will provide them of Education. By National Get Organized Month. feel at home, then leave it. However if you must knowledge, stable 2004, they earned While New Year’s resolutions may be dwindling deal with a roommate, this may be a cause for con- employment, fi- 67 percent more. by the end of January, organization is a quality cern. Keep the stuff limited to small piles under nancial security While the earn- that is necessary and available on an individual your bed, behind or on your desk and problems and a better life ings of those with basis. While visiting various professors, I notice the should be avoided. the dreams of col- college degrees various piles and stacks of papers that are kept on Messiness can be viewed as a means of expres- lege students all have increased desks, chairs and shelves. Such messes make you sion and you can often tell how a person’s mind over the United over time, the wonder how functions by examining their work space. The more States. earning of those they ever clutter, the easier they can transfer from one task to In recent days, with only a high get lessons another, multi-tasking may be a forte or even the the dreams and school diploma planned and Ellen adrenaline of being surrounded by unfinished tasks hopes of Amer- has dropped. classes pre- Koenig may cause them to get through a task. ica’s youth have Making col- pared. How- New Year’s resolutions may stick for a week, been the subject lege accessible to ever it may a month and, for a few people, the entire year. of debate among students is one explain why While millions of people may resolve to become lawmakers. of the best ways it takes so Contributing writer more organized and finally clean out that office or The U.S. House to invest in our long to get closet hallway that has not been emptied in years, recently voted to nation’s future. papers and the rest of us need to embrace the clutter and decrease the inter- Entering the 21st exams back to students. piles of papers, mail and have-nots to function at est rate on feder- century, students’ It is true, however, that there is efficiency in clut- full capacity. Geniuses may lie within those piles, ally subsidized loans to college students from 6.8 access to an af- ter. Depending on the individual, it is possible to holding inspiration for the newest invention of a percent to 3.4 gradually over the next five years. fordable college education must be a national pri- find inspiration and methodology to madness of trendy idea. Recently, both Democrats and Republicans ority. papers and clutter. During last week’s State of the Union Address, have proposed ways to make college accessible to Democrats and Republicans must continue to Adults often lecture children about keeping their I could not help but notice how organized and students, ranging from the cuts in interest rates to work together to find creative solutions to the toys tidy and picked up, while the adults themselves neat the chambers appeared. If that is always how increased financial aid. They have also called on increasing cost of a college education. are not nearly as neat themselves. It seems the ten- government buildings and offices appeared I would universities to lower their tuitions. At the beginning of each semester, when I look dency to clutter follows individuals to college and worry that nothing was happening. While President Between 1994 and 2004, the average price for out at the faces looking back at me, I can’t help but on the desks of students. For some, the surface Bush’s desk may appear spotless and photos of the undergraduate tuition, room, and board at public think about the dreams they bring with them. may be neat and tidy; however, take a glimpse in first family grace the background, I am sure if you colleges increased by 30 percent, according to the For our nation’s sake, let’s help make their dreams one of the drawers and the mess is soon revealed. look at any of his aides’ offices it would be easy to U.S. Department of Education. a reality. Weekly cleaning and organization is a chore when see who is doing the work to run this country. The increase was even higher at private institu- there is time; when midterms and papers are due, tions. organization takes a less priority. January 31, 2007 THE MERCIAD PAGE 7 OPINION To contact: [email protected] Congress finally showing some The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly bi-partisan muscle on Iraq By Editorial Staff If you tuned in to the State of the Union ad- “ping-pong game with American lives.” dress last week, which I hope you did, then you Hagel is not the only Republican speaking out. heard President Bush practically begging the new The numbers are growing as the debate continues Democratic Congress to give his new Iraq strategy, Sen. Arlen Specter from Pennsylvania added his The Good “a chance to work.” comments to a growing wave of dissent. “I would Bush knows that he is on thin ice when it comes suggest respectfully to the president that he is not The school musical Bye Bye Birdie was this past weekend in the PAC. The student run produc- to Iraq. The situation there is anything but stable, the sole decider. “The decider is a shared and joint tion was a huge success with fantastic performances. Congratulations to all involved! in fact, some would assess that it is rapidly dete- responsibility,” Specter said. riorating. Specter’s comments allude to a deeper issue The Bad A few weeks ago, Bush announced his new Iraq causing tension within the halls of government: strategy which mainly consists of a troop surge of constitutional power. It’s been about two weeks since the new 4x1x4 class system was revealed to the Mercyhurst roughly 22,000 When the Framers crafted the Constitution, community, and it still hasn’t been warmly received. The majority of people on campus are still troops with the they created three branches of government that unsupportive of the switch. hopes of re- would check and balance each other. The legisla- gaining control Allison tive branch is an equal branch of government that over the capital Moore actually has the power to declare war. It wasn’t until The Ugly of Baghdad. the bloody 20th century that power in American If you haven’t noticed, winter has arrived . . . in full force. It has been snowing basically every The problem government began to shift, to what is now coined day for over a week now and it shows no signs of stopping. To top it all off, it is ridiculously with this strat- the “imperial presidency.” cold and the wind is relentless as usual. The weather seems to pick the worst times to become egy is that the Opinion editor Executive power has grown over the past 50 treacherous. For example, it seems the worst winter conditions flare up when it’s time to walk to majority of the years, although Congress is basically to blame for class. Funny how that works huh? Why did we go to school in Erie, Pa again? American public is against it and is growing wary letting that happen. The president likes to invoke of this seemingly unending conflict. his constitutional title of Commander-in-Chief to Realistically though, the president doesn’t need to validate his power over the affairs of war, and over consider public opinion very much anymore, not time, Congress began to accept the decision making that he’s ever really let it bother him in the past. He power of the president and took a back seat. is not up for reelection and the midterm elections It wasn’t until the disaster of Vietnam that are over (with unfavorable consequences for the Congress tried to reestablish its power by pass- Republican Party, might I add). ing the War Powers Act, although not much has Increases needed for Army and Marines However, while the president doesn’t have to changed. worry about damaging public opinion, he does Now we find ourselves in another unpopular war unrelated to the troop “surge” President Bush has need to worry about the Democratic majority in where the president is claiming he has the author- Kansas City Star editorial ordered in Iraq. The surge is a short-term strategy; MCT newspapers Congress and the growing number of Republicans ity to make all of the decisions, even if Congress increasing the active-duty force as a whole cannot who are openly challenging the president’s deci- doesn’t agree. happen overnight. sions and power. Congress isn’t powerless, however. They still have The following editorial appeared in the Kansas City Star Pentagon officials plan to first make permanent Members of Congress from both parties still control over the purse strings and could end the on Tuesday, Jan. 23: a 30,000-troop temporary increase in the Army have to face reelection and are forced to answer war by cutting funding, but this would be a risky The Bush administration is beginning to talk that was approved earlier, while steadily adding to a growing number of unhappy constituents political move as the administration would be quick specifics about increasing the number of “boots the remainder through recruitment and retention back home. to label those who voted for such a measure as on the ground.” Defense Secretary Robert Gates over five years. By this time, it is no secret that most Democrats unsupported of American troops. says he will press Congress to authorize 92,000 The Marine Corps’ strength would increase by are planning to go against Bush’s plans, but what While Congress may not have enough support more troops for the active-duty Army and Marine making a 5,000 temporary increase permanent, is interesting is how Republicans, prominent Re- within its ranks to stop the president from vetoing Corps. and using recruitment and retention to add the publicans, are standing up to the president, openly legislation, it is still reassuring to know that the leg- This would be a wise move, long overdue. remainder within four years. defying him. islature is finally growing a backbone and standing As recently as last year, the Pentagon’s long-term This would help spread the burden of frequent Take possible presidential hopeful Sen. Chuck up to a president with little respect for a coequal blueprint called for cutting the Army from 491,000 combat deployments now shouldered by the Hagel a Republican from Nebraska. Hagel is a branch of government. troops to 482,400 by 2011. That was patently un- existing force. Democratic Rep. Ike Skelton of prominent member of the Senate Foreign Relations Our government was formed on the principles realistic, given the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Missouri, the chairman of the Armed Services Committee and spoke out passionately last week of checks and balances to avoid tyrannical or au- along with the continuing risk of crisis in trouble Committee, says, “Our soldiers particularly, I feel, against Bush’s plan and also admonished his col- thoritarian rule. spots such as Korea and the Taiwan Strait. are worn out.” leagues for “playing politics,” telling them if they For too long this president has overlooked and The new plan calls for boosting the Army by Congress should act quickly on the administra- wanted a safe job they should go “sell shoes.” He disrespected this fundamental staple of the Ameri- 65,000. The Marine Corps, now at 202,000, would tion’s request. challenged the administration to “show us the plan” can republic, and it is high time Congress reassumes grow by 27,000. for Iraq, accusing the administration of playing a its intended role. The plans to increase the active-duty force are

Students weigh in on the 4x1x4 system

“I feel that we should “I’m for it. I don’t go for a more standard “I like the trimesters think trimesters gave semester system.” because it allows for enough time for classes, more breaks.” especially being a math Nicole Gambone ‘08 major.” Kelly Logan ‘08

Kyle Linehan ‘07 Are you for or against the “I think that Dr. Gam- ble’s job is to lead our school and if this is the “I don’t really care be- “I think it would be new 4x1x4 direction he feels is right, cause I’m graduating.” good for the school to then I’ll stand behind make money and bad be- semester him.” Jon Bonenberger ‘07 cause we’d get out late.”

system? Michelle Ellia ‘07 Greg Boyan ‘07

TheMERCIAD Joshua Wilwohl Editor-in-Chief [email protected] Jessica Kocent News Editor [email protected] Chelsea Boothe Campus Life Editor [email protected] Allison Moore Opinion Editor [email protected] Ryan Palm & Matt Jackson Sports Editors [email protected] Melissa Brandt A&E Editor [email protected] Andrew Finkel Photographer [email protected] Katie Diley Production Editor [email protected] Melissa Brandt Advertising Manager [email protected] Noelle Lelakus Copy Editor [email protected]

The Merciad is the student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst College. It is published throughout the school year, with the exception of midterms week and finals week. Our office is in the Old Main, Room 314. Our telephone number is 824-2376.

The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor. All letters must be signed and names will be included with the letters. Although we will not edit the letters for content, we reserve the right to trim letters to fit. Letters are due the Thursday before publication and may not be longer than 300 words. Submit MTC letters to box PH 485. PAGE 8 THE MERCIAD January 31, 2007 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT To contact: [email protected] tHe BuZz

FEB. 1. Dark Star Or- chestra. House of Blues, Cleveland.

FEB. 2. Comedy. Jerry Seinfeld. State Theatre, Cleveland.

FEB. 2. New Orleans Perservation Hall Jazz Band. Bromeley Family Theater, Pitt-Bradford, Bradford. ON sale at (814) 362-2522, www.bcpac. com.

FEB. 2. Patti LaBelle. Sen- eca Events Center, Seneca Niagara Casino, Niagara Falls, N.Y.

FEB. 2. Legendary Rhythm & Blues Revue with Tom- my Castro, Magic Dick, Deana Bogar, Ronnie Bak- er Brooks. Rex Theatre, Photo courtesy of the PAC Pittsburgh. Check out Tim Robbins in “Catch a Fire,” a drama about terrorism in Apartheid-era South Africa, showing today at the Performing Arts Center. FEB. 2. Girl Talk. Grog Shop, Cleveland. FEB. 2, 3. Bjorn Again. ‘Catch a Fire’ at the PAC Avalon Ballroom, Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara with it, was a very real issue. Robbins, “The Shawshank Re- he is accused of being. cisco Chronicle says of the By Mason Lorek The story follows a black man demption” and “Mystic River”), This change in character is dis- directing, “Straightforward… Falls, Ont. On sale at (888) Contributing writer 836-8118, www.ticketmas- named Patrick Chamusso (Derek a shrewd member of the Police played in the movie when Patrick He reminds you of a South Af- ter.ca. Luke, “Antwone Fisher” and Security Branch who is dead set says “my family was punished for rica that most of the population With the escalation of force “Friday Night Lights”) who is a on maintaining order in an in- nothing, so let it be for some- would just as soon forget. FEB. 3. Justin Timber- in Iraq, continuing struggle be- foreman at one of the largest oil creasingly volatile South Africa. thing now.” The film has been nominated lake, Pink. Quicken Loans tween Israel and Palestine and refineries in the world. Caught with a compromised The film has drawn fantastic re- for an Image Award as Outstand- Arena, Cleveland. conflict in Sudan, it is shocking An uneducated black living alibi, Patrick is unable to with- views since its release. Kenneth ing Motion Picture and Derek to realize that other major world outside of Johannesburg with his stand the tactics of Vos and his Turan of the Los Angeles Times Luke has received both Black FEB. 3. Roots of Rock events, like the apartheid in wife and two daughters, Patrick men and, as a result, is detained says “The young American ac- Reel and Satellite Award nomina- and Roll with Duprees, Jive South Africa, happened not even lives an above average life. How- with his wife where she is brutally tor [Derek Luke] gives such an tions for his lead role. Five, Vibrations, Jimmy two decades ago. ever, that life is soon shattered beaten. intense, passionate performance “Catch a Fire can be seen at the Charles, Kathy Young, The film “Catch a Fire” brings when he is wrongfully accused Incensed by the sight of his that he just about dares you to PAC on Wednesday, Jan. 31 at 2 Pure Gold. Benedum Cen- us back to a time where govern- of sabotaging the refinery. wife in this state, Patrick changes not be involved with the tale he and 8 p.m. ter, Pittsburgh.. ment-sanctioned segregation, He comes under the interroga- completely his lax political stance is telling.” Tickets are free for Mercyhurst and the mortification that went tion of Colonel Nic Vos (Tim and actuallybecomes the terrorist Ruthe Stein of the San Fran- students (one ticket per ID. FEB. 3. Joe Bonamassa. House of Blues, Cleve- land.

FEB. 3. The Rapture. Rex Theatre, Cleveland.

FEB. 5. Buckwheat Zydeco. Docksider, Erie. $18 advance, available at Docksider, Grasshopper, Parker’s Gallery in Edinbor. $20 day of show.

FEB. 6-11. Musical. “Stomp.” Benedum Center, Pittsburgh.

FEB. 7. Moe. Town Ball- room, Buffalo.

FEB. 7. Asylum Street Spankers. Beachland Ball- room, Cleveland.

FEB. 7. Rock and Roll Photo courtesy of http://www6.islandrecords.com/infinity. Mardis Gras with Cow- The brand new Fall Out Boy album ‘Infinity On High’ comes out Feb. 6. If you can’t wait, pre-order the album online at the band’s website. boy Mouth, Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk. House of Blues, Cleveland. Fall into ‘Infinity’ and Beyond FEB. 8. Kathy Griffin. Pal- MATH ace Theatre, Cleveland. cleverness but the song titles However, the song right af- For the simple fact By Joe Fidago have been thought out better. ter this travesty is “Thnks Fr that you2007 were able to ContributingAS writer A COLLEGE GRAD, FEB. 9. Jamie Foxx. Wol- Excluding the track on the Th Mmrs” (“Thanks For The hear theirFJ songs over and LAB stein Center, Cleveland. new album “I’m Like A Lawyer Memories”) and it is sure to be a over andCRUISER not get them stuck Fall Out Boy’s newest release,YOU With The Way MAY I’m Always Try- favoriteBE of many listeners. in your head, I give you FEB. 9. Mastodon, Con- “Infinity on High,” is definitely ing To Get You Off,” the track In total, the only songs that OPEN: verge. Rex Theater, Pitts- the most experimental effort on “Cork Tree” titled “A Little didn’t really hold my interest burgh. they have recorded to date. Less Sixteen Candles, A Little were “Golden,” 2007 Sundays through That being said, anyoneELIGIBLE who More Touch Me” has got to be FORand “I’ve Thursdays FEB. 10. Taylor Swift. nearly had a heart attack when my favorite title of any of their Got All RAV4 Agora Theater, Cleveland. the news broke that FOB was songs. This recording with Jay-Z can resume Some of the tracks here that Ring- FEB. 10. Paul Fayrewether. their normal breathing pattern, don’t even have the best lyrics ing “mad props” House of Blues, Cleveland. as he just says a few words at the are still so catchy that you can’t as the album’s rap Library On sale at Ticketmaster. beginning of “Thriller,” the first help going back and listening to 2007guest star would 304 A & B track on the album. them again. CAMRYsay. FEB. 10. Jim Gaffigan. There are no rap-rock cross- A notable exception to this is HYBRIDHowever, for Lakewood Civic Audito- over tracks here, a la a more punk the song “Golden,” a two-and those of rium, Lakewood, Ohio. Linkin Park/Jay-Z “Collision -a-half minute long disaster that In My you who Course.” will leave you wondering what Ears and 2007 enjoy this CALL: FEB. 10. Apples in Stereo. As far as the actual album the point of even putting it on None On band, defi- Ext: 2078 Grog Shop, Cleveland. goes, the usual witty lyrics are the album was. My Finger.” YARISnitely pick this one For exact hours here, but maybe not as much as It had to be a showcase for They could up when it comes out FEB. 11. Everclear, Jonny in the past. Patrick’s vocal range, which is have closed the Feb. 6. * Lives! House of Blues, When “Take This To Your shown to be extremely solid, but album with the Aside from the two tracks † Cleveland.. Grave”ANY was released NEW back in TOYOTAthe song is just out of OF place. YOURstronger track CHOICE right I mentionedWWW.WINAYARISONLINE.COM above, the other 2003, it was musically pretty Rumor has it that Babyface before it, “You’re Crashing, But dozen tracks will be stuck in your FEB. 14. Temptations, good, but not a masterpiece. produced three songs on the You’re No Wave,” which is one head for days. Tutorial help Marvelettes. Center for the However, the lyrics were out- album and that has to be one of my favorites on the album. for all your Arts, University of Buffalo, standing. of them, because it should defi- If you hated Fall Out Boy up to math needs! Buffalo. Fast forward*NOT ALL to CUSTOMERS 2005, when WILL nitelyQUALIFY. be CUSTOMERSon one of RECEIVE his albums $400 FROM this TOYOTA point, TOWARDS this LEASINGalbum ORisn’t FINANCING going THE PURCHASE OF NEW UNTITLED TOYOTA MODELS THROUGH PARTICIPATING TOYOTA “From UnderDEALERS the AND CorkTOYOTA Tree”FINANCIAL SERVICES.instead. SEE DEALER OR VISIT WWW.TOYOTAFINANCIAL.COM/FINANCEto change your mind; FOR Your DETAILS. pre COLLEGE- GRADUATE PROGRAM IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR TERMINATION AT ANY TIME. Courtesy of Goerie.com. was released,†NO PURCHASE and theIS NECESSARY. lyrics are MAKING CreativeA PURCHASE genius DOES NOT still INCREASE has some YOUR CHANCESconceived OF WINNING. notions VOID are WHERE probably PROHIBITED BY LAW. TO ENTER YOU MUST BE A LEGAL U.S. RESIDENT AT LEAST 18 YEARS OLD still around theAND same YOU MUSTlevel HAVE of A VALIDlimits. DRIVER’S LICENSE. VISIT YOUR PARTICIPATINGtoo TOYOTAset in DEALERstone ORby WINAYARISONLINE.COM now. FOR COMPLETE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS AND SWEEPSTAKES RULES. January 31, 2007 THE MERCIAD PAGE 9 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT To contact: [email protected] Celebrating dance in Erie

Photo Courtesy of the Mercyhurst Dance Department The Mercyhurst Dancers will perform at the 2007 Erie Festival of Dance to be held this Saturday, Feb. 3, at 2 and 7 p.m. in the Mary D’Angelo Performing Arts Center.

determined support from the over the past year to make this “Black Swan Pas de Deux” from “This year it is our goal that Pardini’s “Movement in Drift- By Noelle Lelakus Copy Editor Erie Art Museum. event and its supporting educa- “Swan Lake.” the 2007 Festival target third wood,” both to be featured in The primary focus of the tion components possible,” said “Bringing to Erie the principal and fourth graders and their the Cummings Art Gallery on Consortium is to keep the art Santillano. dancers from the nationally ac- families,” said Tauna Hunter, Feb. 3 only. Although it has been 2007 for of dance alive and growing “This year’s multi-dance event claimed Pittsburgh Ballet The- Consortium president and Mer- Tickets for the Erie Festival a little over a month, what looks in the Erie region by creating is full of diversity. Whether atre in our production makes the cyhurst College dance chair. of Dance are $10.00 general to be one of the year’s best performing and educational you’re a fan of swing, ballet, event even more exciting,” said “In an effort to ensure that admission and available at the dance performances in Erie will opportunities for dancers and ballroom, modern, tap, jazz or Santillano. dance is still represented in D’Angelo Box Office, 824- take place this weekend. choreographers and offering the cultural dance, the Erie Fes- The Festival benefits the Erie the government mandate ‘No 3000. On Saturday, Feb. 3, the Erie public a first rate performance. tival of Dance is a wonderful community beyond the two Child Left Behind,’ the affiliate The Erie Festival of Dance is Dance Consortium will host the According to Festival chair, production to see local dancers performances on Saturday, as members of the EDC will be sponsored in part by the Arts fourth annual Erie Festival of dance department faculty mem- showcase their works.” Consortium members from conducting a series of dance Council of Erie, Capezio/Bal- Dance in the Mary D’Angelo ber Mark Santillano, the Erie In addition to local partici- Mercyhurst College Dance De- workshops in Erie schools as let Makers Foundation, Erie Performing Arts Center, with Festival of Dance is the only pants, principal dancers Julia partment, North Coast Dance, part of education outreach con- Times News, GE Federal Credit performances at 2 and 7 p.m. one of its kind held in Erie, Erickson and Christopher Ren- Erie Dance Conservatory and nected with the festival.” Union, Mercyhurst College, Founded in the spring of which brings together 20 local dell-Jackson from Pittsburgh SoMar Dance Works will pres- Also supplementing the Fes- Northwest Savings Bank and 2000, The Erie Dance Con- dance organizations for two Ballet Theatre will be showcased ent lecture demonstrations at tival will be a pre-performance Vicary Insurance Agency. sortium began as a group of distinct performances. in both the matinee and evening area schools to involve students demonstration by the Acholi dance enthusiasts from the “An all-volunteer team of Erie performances and will reveal in both dance awareness and African Traditional Dancers Erie community along with the dance enthusiasts have worked their virtuosity in the famous participation. and a sculpture exhibit of Brian Academy nominations

ducers. Abigail Breslin in “Little Miss By Melissa Brandt “Little Miss Sunshine” (Fox Sunshine.” A & E Editor Searchlight). Jennifer Hudson in “Dream- “The Queen” (Miramax, Pathé girls.” The Academy of Motion and Granada) Andy Harries, Rinko Kikuchi in “Babel.” Picture Arts and Scienc- Christine Langan and Tracey Achievement in directing: es President Sid Ganis Seaward, producers. “Babel,” Alejandro González and past Oscar nomi- Best animated feature film Iñárritu. nee Salma Hayek an- of the year: “The Departed,” Martin nounced the nominations “Cars” (Buena Vista) John Scorsese. for 10 of the 24 Academy Lasseter. “Letters from Iwo Jima,” Clint Award catagories “Happy Feet” (Warner Bros.) Eastwood. last week. George Miller. “The Queen,” Stephen Academy “Monster House” (Sony Pic- Frears. Awards for tures Releasing) Gil Kenan. “United 93,” Paul Greengrass. outstanding Performance by an actor in Adapted screenplay: film achieve- a leading role: “Borat Cultural Learnings ments of 2006 Leonardo DiCaprio in “Blood of America for Make Benefit will be present- Diamond.” Glorious Nation of Kazakh- ed on Sunday, Ryan Gosling in “Half Nel- stan,” screenplay by Sacha Baron Feb. 25, 2007, at son.” Cohen, Anthony Hines, Peter the Kodak The- Peter O’Toole in “Venus.” Baynham and Dan Mazer. atre, televised live Will Smith in “The Pursuit of “Children of Men,” screenplay by the ABC Televi- Happyness.” by Alfonso Cuarón, Timothy J. sion Network at 8 Forest Whitaker in “The Sexton, David Arata Mark Fergus p.m. The complete Last King of Scotland.” and Hawk Ostby. list of nominations Performance by an actor in a “The Departed,” screenplay by for the 79th Annual supporting role: William Monahan. Academy Awards can Alan Arkin in “Little Miss Sun- “Little Children,” screenplay by be accessed at www. shine” (Fox Searchlight). Todd Field and Tom Perrotta. oscar.com. Jackie Earle Haley in “Little “Notes on a Scandal,” Best motion pic- Children” (New Line). screenplay by Patrick Marber. ture of the year: Djimon Hounsou in “Blood Original screenplay: “Babel” (Para- Diamond” (Warner Bros.). “Babel,” written by Guillermo mount and Paramount Eddie Murphy in “Dreamgirls” Arriaga. Vantage) Alejandro (DreamWorks and Paramount). “Letters from Iwo Jima,” González Iñárritu, Jon Mark Wahlberg in “The De- screenplay by Iris Yamashita, and Kilik and Steve Golin, parted” (Warner Bros.). story by Iris Yamashita andPaul producers. Performance by an actress Haggis. “The Departed” (War- in a leading role: “Little Miss Sunshine,” written ner Bros.). Penélope Cruz in “Volver” by Michael Arndt. “Letters from Iwo (Sony Pictures Classics). “Pan’s Labyrinth,” written by Jima” (War- Judi Dench in “Notes on a Guillermo del Toro. ner Bros.) Scandal” (Fox Searchlight). “The Queen,” Written by Peter Clint Helen Mirren in “The Queen” Morgan. East- (Miramax, Pathé and Granada). Best foreign language film wood, Meryl Streep in “The Devil of the year: Steven Wears Prada” (20th Century “After the Wedding” from Spiel- Fox). Denmark. berg and Kate Winslet in “Little Chil- “Days of Glory (Indigènes)” Robert dren” (New Line). from Algeria. Lorenz, Performance by an actress “The Lives of Others” from pro- in a supporting role: Germany. Adriana Barraza in “Babel.” “Pan’s Labyrinth” from Mex- Cate Blanchett in “Notes on a ico. Scandal.” “Water” from Canada. PAGE 10 THE MERCIAD January 31, 2007 LAKER

SPORTS To contact: [email protected] More than just a ring Wayne wants to win Super Bowl for deceased brother lot that I experienced. You are By Mike Phillips at a situation in your life where MCT How can I you are at your lowest point. Just to hear from somebody who has root against At the RCA Dome, under a actually been through it helps din of noise, hidden beneath you out a lot. Coach Dungy is Manning? the swirl and electricity of the a strong man, strong soul. He AFC Championship Game, knows exactly what’s going on. By Matt Jackson Wayne took a quiet moment to Just him giving me some advice Sports co-editor himself. was huge for me.” He was talking to his brother, So were his former Hurri- I’ll be honest and say I’ve Rashad. cane teammates, who embraced never exactly been a huge fan They were close as kids, Reggie Wayne. of Peyton Manning. tagging along with Rashad, who “I heard from everybody _ I can’t offer much of an ex- was everything Reggie wanted from old coaches, from players planation as to why I have a had to be. I hadn’t heard from in a while,” a slight dislike of him. That’s the way it is with older Wayne said. “It doesn’t sur- Maybe it’s because I can’t brothers. You revere them and prise me because there is such a stand watching him change envy them. You copy them, and brotherhood down there at UM. the play three times at the line hope and wait for words of ap- They all lent a hand. A lot of of scrimmage while the play proval that mean so much more guys showed up for the funeral. clock winds down to just a few from them. Whenever you see that, it kind of seconds on almost every single You dream of being like them lifts you up. Whenever you play play – even more unbearable but most of all, you love them. this game of football, it’s more in the Madden video game by Rashad, 32, was killed in a traf- than just friends. It’s more than the way. fic accident Sept. 24. just being teammates. It’s like His main options are Marvin “There’s not much time that family, and it was great seeing the Harrison, Reggie Wayne and a goes by that I don’t think about rest of my family.” solid rookie in Joseph Addai, him. A lot of my success came Wayne spoke in a soft and Matt Kryger/MCT photo which is like having the choice through him,” said Wayne, who steady voice this week as he Reggie Wayne dedicated his accomplishments this season to his older brother who died of the Playmates from “The had the best season of his life shared his grief with the media, this past September in a car accident. Now, Wayne hopes to add a Super Bowl win. Girls Next Door.” on the field and his worst off it. and at times he looked as if the I promise, Peyton, if you’re He’s a big reason the Colts have tears welled in his eyes. looking to score, any of those reached the Super Bowl, and he’ll “I wanted to do some big think it’s weird, but I can actually have Tony Dungy as his coach. His voice all but cracked when options is a good choice. be coming back to Miami, where things this year for my brother,” hear him answer back. That’s why Dungy, a religious man whose he talked about the only picture With that said, I will cheer he was a star receiver with the Wayne said. “We always talked I say he had help pave this way. 18-year-old son committed sui- hanging in his locker it’s a photo Manning on this Sunday against Hurricanes. about me going to the Pro Bowl “In the New England game cide 13 months ago, was there for of Rashad standing by his car. the Bears. He will bring the memory of and I am able to go to the Pro I just felt like at halftime that Wayne, talking to him every day It’s the first picture Wayne While most NFL superstars Rashad with him. Bowl this year. We talked about he set all that up just to make on the phone and working hard grabbed when he began to clean double as A-list celebrities He made the Pro Bowl for the Super Bowl and I was able to it interesting, because I said be- to make sure the Colts could get up Rashad’s apartment, and that’s – see Brady, Tom and Leinart, the first time, and reached the go to the Super Bowl. In some fore the game I need your help, to the funeral. why it’s in his locker. Matt- Manning more and more dream of getting to the Super form or fashion, I feel like he has but make it interesting. I guess “The thing I told Reggie is you “I have a whole little shrine of comes across as the everyday Bowl in a season full of grief helped pave this way for me, and that was his way of keeping it have to enjoy the memories of pictures and things of his at my anti-prima donna guy in the and anguish. this team. He was probably the interesting. That was my prayer the time you had and to know house,” Wayne said. NFL. “Bitter but sweet,” he said. biggest Colts fan out there, so I before the game. I talk to him they would want you to continue “He made me tough. There are His commercials portray him “That’s the only way I can de- dedicate all this to him.” all the time.” on with excellence,” Dungy said. so many little things he did for in this manner and he becomes scribe this season. It was a tough And he prays to him. That’s After Rashad’s death, Wayne “Reggie has been a great player me. I have two older brothers, even more human each year he situation. Losing my brother was what Wayne was doing at half- didn’t want to go back on the for a long time, but he has been and he is in the middle. My two tap dances in the pocket in a so hard on me. But I know he time when the Colts were losing field. under the radar, and he had such brothers were way more talented playoff loss.. would want me to play, and that’s to New England 21-6 last week, “Mentally I really wasn’t all a great year for us and the way he than I was. I watched them. They This is the year that may why I came back and played be- their season 30 minutes from there,” he said. “It was a tough handled everything was special, put me through the ins and outs. end. cause that’s what he would want ending. time for me. I prayed and felt because you knew he was playing They made me who I am today, Peyton is one game away me to do. I am trying to enjoy it, “I pray to him all the time, ev- like he would want me to play, for something more.” along with my parents.” from getting the ring and the because I know there is no guar- ery morning, every time before and my family thought the same Wayne said Dungy brought “I think about him all the time. praise which only leaves one antee I will be here next year.” I go to bed.” Wayne said. “At thing, too.” him solace. I just wish he could be here and challenge ... staying humble. This season was for Rashad. halftime, I talk to him. You might Wayne said he was fortunate to “Obviously, he experienced a share everything with me.” Schafer gets 100th win as Lakers beat Ashland Laker Winter Term Inn

time despite the fact that he has Galley Grill By Matt Jackson wrestled at a lower weight (184 Sports co-editor pounds) at times this season. New weekly specials: The Lakers forfeited the heavy- 1/29 - 2/2 Senior Zack Schafer can add a weight bout to complete the Smoke House Pulled-Pork combo milestone in wins to his list of scoring. 1/8 - 1/12 accomplishments as a four-year The win was probably no sur- Chicken Alfredo Pizza 2/5 - 2/9 starter in the Mercyhurst wres- prise to coach Tony Cipollone. Bottle of soda Honey Mustard Chicken BLT tling lineup. In December Cipollone ex- combo Schafer picked up win No. 100 pressed his thoughts that Gallo 1/15 - 1/19 with a 16-5 major decision over was getting to where they wanted Justin Ferguson in the No. 13 him to be. Cuban-style burger combo Hours of Operation: Lakers’ 19-17 win over No. 12 It would be hard to argue as Monday-Friday 8 a.m. -1 a.m. ranked Ashland Saturday. of late. Since dropping three File Photo 1/22 - 1/26 Saturday 1 p.m. -1 a.m. It isn’t a short list for Schafer, Sophomore Trevor Gallo matches at the NWCA Duals, Turkey-Cranberry club wrap Sunday 5 p.m. -1 a.m. who is shooting for his fourth Gallo has won five of his last six combo national tournament appearance matches, with the lone loss com- thing holding Zanetta back from this year. ing via a 6-4 loss at 194. cracking the top-8 is a first period He finished second in the na- A few other notes and happen- fall to West Liberty State’s Doug Wraps tion last year and is a two-time ings to look forward to for the Surra. Laker Express All-American. rest of the season: Not that the rankings are truly Buffalo Chicken Schafer also holds numero- Hudson Harrison is always significant. Barbeque Chicken ous single-season team records, Ranked or not ranked, these Look for Laker Express capable of pulling off a big win Veggie and humus including pins (14), team points for the Lakers. are the types of wins Zanetta (175.5) and wins (31). The junior out of General will need to advance deep into Minute Meals! Bacon, Lettuce and He is currently ranked No. 2 McLane High School steps it up the national tournament. Tomato in the nation behind Nebraska- in “big match” situations. Also, The other home meet on the Omaha’s J.D. Naig and has the Lakers’ schedule is against East a quick note to Mercyhurst fans; Hours of Operation: ability to turn any match in to he also seems to feed off the Region rival and No. 5 ranked a win with his numerous pin sound of a quality home crowd University of Pitt-Johnstown to Monday-Thursday 11:30 a.m.- 8 p.m. maneuvers. behind him. close out the regular season on Board Equivalency Available: Friday 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Feb. 16. Results and accolades like Laker fans will have two more 11:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Saturday & Sunday: Closed Schafer’s have the potential to chances to see their team com- Pitt-Johnstown has a daunting overshadow the rest of the talent pete in the Mercyhurst Athletic 37-0 win over West Liberty, a the Lakers possess. Center this season, including a team the Lakers have fallen to Case in point: Trevor Gallo’s contest with No. 19 Findlay. twice this season. Sandwiched in between the heroics in the win over Ashland Findlay has nationally ranked FEATURES: Saturday. wrestlers at 133 (No. 2 Andy Uhl) final two home matches for the Subconnection The Lakers held a 16-11 lead and 157 (No. 3 Tony Guerra). Lakers are matches at Shippens- This Week: Buffalo Chicken over the Eagles with two weight Senior J.J. Zanetta, who leads burg and Millersville. Meatball Sub Don Cummings is ranked fifth classes to go in front of their the team in wins with 22, knocked 6” Sub $3.50 Italian Sub opponent’s crowd. off his second nationally ranked nationally at 149 pounds. Gallo, a sophomore, stepped opponent this month with a 5-2 All but one Laker starter carries on to the mat with Ashland win over Tony Iovine. a record .500 for the above sea- 12” Sub $5.50 Hours of Operation: freshman David Crowley with The Lakers’ Leonard Calhoun son and depth hasn’t seemed to Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. be an issue as reserves Calhoun the chance to ice the match for defeated Iovine last year by a Saturday 1 p.m. - 9 p.m. the Lakers. major decision 10-1. (13-4), Brian Pogel (8-5) and Gallo came through in the The most recent national rank- Mike Sullivan (10-9) are above Sunday 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. clutch with a 3-1 win in over- ings came out Jan. 24 and one .500. January 31, 2007 THE MERCIAD Page 11 LAKER

To contact: [email protected] SPORTS Women’s hockey wins two on road

Agosta started the scoring for By Ryan Palm the Lakers at 12:59 of the first Sports editor period, and Stephanie Jones tied the game at 2-2 three minutes It may be said that no athlete later. in the history of Mercyhurst Col- The two teams traded goals lege has received as much hype as back and forth for the rest of freshman Meghan Agosta from the contest, but when the final the women’s hockey team. buzzer sounded it was Agosta’s The Canadian came to Mer- power-play score at 7:59 of the cyhurst with a Olympic gold third that made the difference. medal around her neck, and has Mercyhurst edged Yale 5-4 to been referred to by some hockey pick up the non-conference experts as the Sydney Crosby of win. women’s hockey. Junior Laura Hosier had a The “hype” that has been gen- rough night between the pipes, erated on this campus has been allowing four goals while making significant, and certainly well 11 saves to pick up the win. deserved. On Saturday, Mercyhurst held Agosta has been phenomenal the honor of helping to open all season long, and this past a $52 million TD Banknorth weekend the show got even Sports Center at Quinnipiac sweeter. University. “She is a great player and has The game was highly-touted really played great in big games on their campus, and even gar- for us, sometimes scoring the nered an appearance from NHL goals and sometimes playing legend Gordie Howe to drop the other roles on the ice,” said ceremonial first puck. Coach Michael Sisti. “It was nice that he came to the Against Yale on Friday night, lockerroom before the game and File Photo Agosta took matters into her gave a speech and shook hands, Freshman Meghan Agosta (shown earlier in the season against Dartmouth) scored four goals against Yale on Friday. own hands, scoring four goals and we were able to give him and adding an assist in the con- a Mercyhurst puck, which was game-winner at 4:05 of the sec- Hosier played much better in wins and keep improving each of which are conference games. test, the first time in six years that pretty exciting,” said Sisti. ond period. goal, stopping all 13 shots she week. We had a couple play- First up is Niagara on Feb. 2-3, a Laker lit the lamp four times. Mercyhurst was out to play the Sophomore Valerie Chouinard faced to tally her seventh shut- ers step up in Jackie Jarrell and with face offs at 7 pm and 2 Against the Bulldogs, Mer- role of spoiler, however, and suc- added an insurance goal at 8:27 out of the year. Danielle Ayearst that helped us p.m. respectively. Mercyhurst cyhurst got off to a slow start, ceeded in doing just that. of the second, and Jones added With the pair of wins she im- get the wins,” said Sisti. will seek to extend its unbeaten trailing 3-2 by the end of the Agosta again started the scor- a third midway through the final proved her record to 19-1-1. Up next for Mercyhurst is three streak to 16 games with a pair first period. ing with what would be the period. “We were glad to get the two straight weekends at home, all of wins.

Men’s volleyball drops pair in MIVA Women’s basketball weekend. the Lakers bounced back in game the game 31-29. By Wes Craig The Lakers lost the first game three winning it 30-25. Game four would prove to Contributing writer 30-28 and be outscored in the Game four started great for the be too much for Mercyhurst falls to rival Gannon final two games 60-36. Lakers as they jumped out to a and it fell to the Division III The men’s volleyball team is off The undefeated Lewis team commanding lead but they were powerhouse 30-26, and lost the to a rocky start, but the future showed the Lakers why it was finally ousted 30-26 losing the match 3-1. in hard-fought game looks extremely bright for the undefeated and easily won three match three games to one. Newman was impressive for the game. Mercyhurst ended the Lakers. games to one. Tim Wagner led Freshman Dave Newman led the Lakers for the second day in By Chris Davis game with five players in double- Contributing writer Led by sophomore Tim Wagner the way for the Lakers recording the way for Mercyhurst, record- a row as he bettered his kill total figure points for the first time and freshman Dave Newman, 13 kills. ing 15 kills. from Saturday to record 22 kills this season. men’s volleyball at Mercyhurst Saturday brought the same luck Sunday brought a tough Juniata on Sunday. The Gannon and Mercyhurst Anderson’s 22 points led the seems to be in the midst of good for the Lakers when they headed team into town for a showdown Patton, despite the rocky start women’s basketball rivalry met Lakers in scoring. Petit and Pri- things to come. over to Loyola University to face with the Lakers and a chance for only had good things to say about for the 66th time on Saturday schak each ended with 12 points Last Friday, the Lakers opened the No. 13 team in the country. Coach Ryan Patton to beat his his team. with the Golden Knights edging apiece and freshman Mara Drei- up MIVA play with a match The Ramblers were adamant alma mater. “It’s hard with a team that is so the Lakers by a score of 81-74 at ser scored a career-high 11 against Lewis, followed by a against the Lakers and easily won Juniata jumped out early to young not to look ahead to what the Mercyhurst Athletic Center points, all of which came in match against No. 13 Loyola Uni- with scores of 30-13, 30-22, 30- a quick two-game lead 30-19, we should be able to accomplish (MAC). the first half. Paris Pugliese also versity of Chicago on Saturday. 21, to win the match three games 30-26. in the future,” he said. The near sell-out crowd of came off the bench to add a The Lakers’ match with to none. But for the second day in a With a tough MIVA road ahead 1,552 saw another hard-fought, career-high 11 as well. D’Youville on Thursday was can- Jeff Hartman and Wagner led row however game three went to for the Lakers, it’s going to be exciting basketball game be- Gannon pulled down 19 of- celled due to inclement weather. the Lakers; Hartman had 4 kills the Lakers, this time in exciting tough to end the season with a tween the two rivals. With Gan- fensive boards, which resulted This weekend had the Lakers and three blocks, Wagner with 3 fashion. record better than .500, but ev- non’s victory, the Knights have in 20 second-chance points. The facing off against Rutgers New- kills two blocks. With the game going back and ery team makes the playoffs. improved their record to 15-4 Knights also turned 29 Mercy- ark on Saturday, followed by a Rutgers Newark came into Erie forth, it eventually boiled down “Were working towards April overall and lead the Great Lakes hurst turnovers into 37 points. match with the No. 1 team in with a 1-3 record and got off to to a 29-29 tie with Mercyhurst 18th, so that we an put up a fight Intercollegiate Athletic Confer- Gannon’s senior All-GLIAC Division 3, Juniata, on Sunday. a good start against the Lakers, serving. in the playoffs,” Patton said. ence (GLIAC) South with a 9-1 forward Christina Jackson and The Lakers opened up MIVA winning games one and two out- The young men showed their conference mark, while the Lak- senior shooting guard Casey play at Lewis University last scoring the home team 60-41, but poise under pressure and took ers fall to 6-14 overall and 2-8 in England took over the final 20 the division. minutes in outscoring the Lakers A series of runs that proved 37-30 during the second half. fatal for Mercyhurst. Gannon England now has three straight Men’s hockey alumni active in pro ranks started out on fire to build an 20-plus point games against 18-point lead, 32-14, in front Mercyhurst. the Lakers, scoring 12 goals and “My first game when I was where he has seen action in 35 of a shocked Lakers crowd with With Gannon’s win, they now By Chris Van Horn recording 33 assists for 45 points. warming up it was great to look games and has posted a record 8:58 to play in the first half. lead the all-time series 42-24. Contributing writer The group of Hunt, Dave Bor- across the rink and see guys like of 16-17-1-1 with a 3.55 goals Seniors Katlyn Petit and Julie Earlier this week, Erie native relli, Ben Cottreau and Scott Patrick Elias and Brian Gionta against average. Anderson began the Lakers’ Prischak spoke about what this Coach Rick Gotkin has built Champagne were the three main and realize that I was there,” Other former Lakers playing at comeback with back-to-back 3- basketball rivalry is really like. a reputation around the Mercy- reasons why the Lakers were the said Hunt. the Pro level include Erik John- pointers and Mercyhurst finally “Ever since I was young, I hurst hockey program - a repu- highest-scoring team in Division “I was shocked that he was son, Scott Reynolds and Conrad cut the deficit to single digits would always attend the Mer- tation for producing not only I last season. called up so quickly. It says a lot Martin who are all teammates on on another Anderson 3-pointer cyhurst-Gannon basketball fine hockey players but excellent Hunt was touted by several about how far he has come as a the Cincinnati Cyclones of the with 4:47 to play to make it games,” she said. “I knew ever student athletes. NHL teams. Last March he player,” said Gotkin. ECHL. David Wrigley is playing 37-28. since I was little that I always Most of his players go on to decided to forego his senior Dave Borrelli, who led the for the Victoria Salmon Kings of Anderson then converted on wanted to be a [Mercyhurst] graduate with degrees in their season to sign a two-year deal country in points per game last the ECHL. a 3-point play, but Gannon re- Laker.” various fields of study; however, with the Washington Capitals of season, has bounced around Preston Briggs (Oklahoma bounded with four consecutive “This rivalry means so much some of his players possess the the NHL. the ECHL this season and is City Blazers) and Rich Hansen points to make it 41-31 contests more because you are competing skills that enable them to con- The decision for Jamie to currently playing for the Fresno (Amarillo Gorillas) have found a with just 2:49 to play in the against another team within the tinue their careers in professional forego his senior season for the Falcons. home in the CHL. opening half. same city as you,” Prischak said. hockey. NHL was a tough one. Another former Laker play- Having former players that Over the final 1:36, Mercy- “I know last year I did not have “We want to make sure that “Obviously coach would have ing in the professional ranks are playing professional hockey hurst scored nine straight points, the opportunity to play against our student athletes have a great like me back for my senior year, this season is T. J. Kemp, who is now becoming an excellent which brought life to the team our cross-town rival because of experience at Mercyhurst. First and I’m close to finishing my is enjoying a successful season recruiting tool for Gotkin and and to the home student section a knee injury, which was a major and foremost, academically, but degree, but coach told me he was with the Manchester Monarchs the Laker program. inside the MAC. disappointment for me.” also athletically and socially,” behind me 100 percent no matter of the AHL. “Now when I recruit kids I can The final Mercyhurst points “It’s just like any other game, Gotkin said. what my decision,” Hunt said. Kemp has tallied 23 points say that this is a program that came off of a steal and lay-up by but the atmosphere is great Despite having a down season “I told Jamie that the Capitals including a team-leading 20 as- produces NHL prospects, and Stephanie Prischak with six sec- because of the huge crowd that this year in Atlantic Hockey, the were interested in him because sists this season. He is the top that is important to kids with onds to play that tied the score at comes to watch and support the Lakers have compiled a 3.2 GPA of who he is, and he didn’t need scoring rookie defenseman in the potential,” Gotkin said. 44 heading into the break. two teams,” Anderson said. as a team which says a lot about to change for them. Jamie is a AHL and was recently named as “Mercyhurst did so much for Mercyhurst took its first lead Anderson’s greatest memory that “experience” that Gotkin good kid and is developing into an AHL All-Star. my development as a hockey of the game at 46-44 on a Petit at Mercyhurst occurred dur- speaks about. a legitimate NHL prospect. I told “Like Jamie (Hunt), he is a player, as well as my education. jumper about 32 seconds into ing her freshman year when “Our goal is to develop these him to just go and play his game,” legitimate NHL prospect. It is I know that I got three years of the second half, but that lead was they defeated Gannon. “Even players for future endeavors, Gotkin said. great to see his success at the top-quality education,” Hunt short-lived. Gannon then went though we only won one game whether that means playing Although he was signed by the next level. The whole team got said. on a 10-0 run and would never my freshman year, that season professional hockey or not. A Capitals, he has spent much of a chance to see him play when “I am proud of all our players, trail again. beating Gannon in front of a lot of the players will go on to this season playing for their AHL we were up in Maine and he not just the ones that are play- Mercyhurst got to within four large crowd has been my greatest be in business, work as doctors, affiliate, the Hershey Bears. has made great strides,” Gotkin ing at the next level. We try to points at 54-50 with 15:16 to memory.” lawyers and public officials,” says On Dec. 29, he became the first says. produce not only great hockey play as Prischak hit a pair of Mercyhurst looks to rebound Gotkin. former Laker to play in the NHL, Net-minder Andy Franck is players, but great professionals jumpers. Gannon continued on the road when they play Defenseman Jamie Hunt had making his debut in a loss to the in his second season with the as well,” Gotkin says. to keep Mercyhurst just out of Northern Michigan this Thurs- an outstanding junior season for New Jersey Devils. Wheeling Nailers of the ECHL reach of the lead for the rest of day at 5:30 p.m. AKER Page 12 January 31, 2007 PORTS LakerS Sports “Quick Hits” Lakers beat Gannon This weeks results... Men’s basketball defeats cross-town rival 64-53 Women’s hockey...... Jan 26, W 5-4, Yale Jan. 27, W 3-0, Quinnipiac By Finella Annand Women’s basketball...... Jan. 27, L 81-74, Gannon Contributing writer Men’s basketball...... Jan. 27, W 64-53, Gannon Wrestling...... Jan. 27, W 19-17, Ashland There is always something Men’s volleyball...... Jan. 27, L 3-1, Rutgers-Newark a little extra at stake when the Jan. 28, L 3-1, Juniata Knights of Gannon come to play the Lakers of Mercyhurst. The cross-town rivalry ignites a certain passion among both In the news... players and fans that is difficult to match in any other game. Athletes of the Week The Knights came to the Mer- cyhurst Athletic Center (MAC) The Athletic Department honored wrestling’s Zach Schafer and full of expectations. They left Meghan Agosta from women’s hockey as the Male and Female the court to the sounds of Laker Athletes of the Week on Monday. fans celebrating Mercyhurst’s 64-53 win. Schafer had a big weekend on the road against Ashland. With “Mercyhurst-Gannon games his 16-5 decision over Justin Ferguson, Schafer picked up his are always exciting,” said Mercy- 100th career victory. Schafer, a senior, is ranked No. 2 in the hurst fan Kim Griffin. “I love country in his weight class of 174 lbs. The team also had a watching the rivalry and I think good weekend, upending No. 12 Ashland by a narrow margin of Andy Finkel photo it brings out a lot of school spirit Senior guard Avi Fogel tallied 12 points and five assists against Gannon on Saturday. 19-17. amongst the fans.” There was barely a seat to be Fogel and junior Terry Smith. with eight rebounds. Fogel went on to score a game- Agosta had yet another stellar weekend, scoring five goals and found in the MAC on Saturday Gannon closed the lead to just The win was the third in a row high 22 points. Chaney had a adding an assist in a pair of non-conference games this past night as fans from both sides five, 58-53, with 2:35 left, but Fo- for the Mercyhurst men’s basket- massive second half pouring weekend. Against Yale on Friday, the freshman had a five-point of Erie came to cheer on their gel hit a jumper with 1:30 left to ball team. in 15 points and grabbing 11 night with four goals and an assist. basketball team of choice. put the Lakers ahead by seven. They responded to back-to- rebounds. That performance was the first time a Laker had four goals in Mercyhurst drew first blood Richard Field and T.J. Mathis back defeats on the road two Smith again scored in double one game since 1999. Against Quinnipiac on Saturday, Agosta and posted four points in the each sank a pair of free throws weekends ago with three con- figures, coming off the bench to opened the scoring in the second period with what proved to be opening 34 seconds. in the final minute to seal the secutive home wins; the third of record 10 points. the game winner in the Lakers’ 3-0 victory. However for the next four game. which was against Gannon. The three wins take Mercyhurst minutes there was little to cheer “We are really grateful for The men preceded the Gannon a step closer to their major goal, about as both teams missed the win against Gannon. They victory with two wins the previ- making the NCAA tournament. countless opportunities to get battled hard and it’s always go- ous week against Ferris State However, they continue to focus Online Voting for Skills Challenge points on the board. ing to be a hard fought game. and Lake Superior State. They on one game at a time. After a slow opening, the game We played hard and made some defeated Ferris State 70-65 and “We are focusing on playing The Mercyhurst Community is invited to visit www.ncaasports. picked up in pace and carried a good plays down the stretch,” Lake Superior 66-62. hard so we can put ourselves in a com from now until Feb. 12 to vote for the NCAA Division I good momentum through the said Mercyhurst senior guard The win against Ferris State position where we can make the hockey Skills Challenge participants. There are three players first half. Darren Angell. saw four Mercyhurst players conference tournament and have from Mercyhurst on the 89-member nomination list including Fans were kept on the edge of The crowed erupted into rap- venture into double points. a shot at the NCAA tournament Scott Champagne from the men’s team and Stephanie their seat as the two teams battled turous applause as the final Shelby Chaney finished with a which has been our major goal Bourbeau and Julia Colizza from the women’s team. it out for a lead. Mercyhurst just whistle sounded. They further team-high 17 points. Smith came since I have been here. Right edged Gannon at the half with a showed their appreciation by off the bench, as he would the now we are in a dog fight and There will be 16 males and 16 females to compete in the lead of 32-29. rushing onto the court to con- following week against Gannon, we just have to go out and play challenge on April 6 in St. Louis, Missouri. Mercyhurst led for the majority gratulate the victorious Lakers. to score 16 points, including 6- hard and smart every night.” said of the second half. Gannon went The burgundy of Gannon of-6 on free throws. Angell. ahead once 37-36 with 14:31 to slinked out of the crowd and In addition to his career-high Mercyhurst will look to play Women’s hockey still at top go, but it was short-lived for the made their back across to the in rebounds, Mathis scored 13 hard and smart when they travel Knights. other side of town. points. Field added a dozen. to Northern Michigan for a 7:30 Although their lead shrunk for the second time in as many Just 25 seconds later, senior Avi Smith came off the bench to The Lakers carried the momen- tip off on Feb. 1st. weeks, Mercyhurst retained their No. 1 ranking in the USCHO. Fogel converted a pair of free score an impressive, game-high tum of the Thursday night win The men will return home to com poll released Jan. 29. Second place Wisconsin moved to throws and Mercyhurst never 17 points. Mathis hit 6-of-11 over into Saturday and battled face Wayne State on Feb. 8th. within one point of Mercyhurst, gaining seven first place votes to trailed again. field goals for 14 points and hard to defeat Lake Superior Support your Lakers at the MAC the Lakers’ eight. The free throws started a 17-4 added three steals. State. and enjoy a variety of refresh- run that put Mercyhurst ahead Fogel scored a dozen, handed Fogel recorded his 1000th ca- ments served by the Mercyhurst Mercyhurst has been at the top since late November, taking 53-41 with 8:58 remaining and out five assists and picked up reer point with his first field goal women’s softball team. the top spot from the Badgers. The Lakers have eight regular included six points each from four steals. Field led the Lakers of the game. season games left, all within their conference. Up next on the schedule is Niagara who will be at the Ice Center Friday and Saturday. Men’s hockey wins two against Bentley Baseball ranked in preseason poll seven consecutive games but By Andy Tait returned in spectacular fashion The National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association chose the Contributing writer Mercyhurst baseball team eighth in its Preseason Poll for the registering two goals and four North Central Region. The Lakers are one of four GLIAC schools assists. ranked in the poll, along with Ashland and Grand Valley, ranked The Mercyhurst men’s hockey His superb play during the se- No. 1 and No. 2, and Saginaw Valley, who is No. 7. program has gone from strength ries led to him being named AH to strength during the course player of the week. The Lakers open play in late February when they travel south to of Coach Rick Gotkin’s 19-year The influential Champagne had Florida for a week-long tournament at Lynn University. tenure. The Lakers have become been missing for five games prior a force to be reckoned with in to the Bentley series. However, Atlantic Hockey (AH). like Cottreau, Gotkin’s record with the Lakers Champagne returned with a Basketball also regionally ranked is phenomenal and is evidenced bang and chipped in with four by the fact that he ranks ninth assists during the two games. The men’s basketball team landed in the first rankings among Division I coaches in all- File photo “Scott and Ben are both very released by the NCAA basketball committee published Jan. 25. time winning percentage (.623). The return of junior Ben Cottreau (shown earlier this sea- dynamic players for us and I Mercyhurst is ranked No. 6 in the Great Lakes Region, trailing The Lakers have a seven-year son) was a welcome addition to the strugging Lakers. think their return gave other guys GLIAC foes Findlay and Grand Valley State. Division I record of 151-88-18, confidence,” said Gotkin. which includes three NCAA in AH, which makes this series a possible six on offer a week Coming into series with Bent- Mercyhurst is 13-6 on the year, including a 10-1 record when playoffs appearance and three crucial to Mercyhurst’s hope of ago. ley, the Lakers were on a seven- playing at home. Next up for the team is a road trip to Michigan regular conference titles, among claiming the fourth seed in the The Lakers then halted their 10 game power play drought. How- to square off against Northern Michigan and Michigan Tech. a number of other accolades. playoffs. The top four seeds are game winless streak by sweeping ever they exploded offensively With only seven regular season able to host the first game of the Bentley at home, 7-4 and 5-2, on scoring on four out of seven games remaining the Lakers find playoffs. That fourth spot is cur- Friday and Saturday, respectively. attempts on Friday and two of Women’s water polo ranked themselves in an unfamiliar pre- rently occupied by the Falcons. Mercyhurst hadn’t recorded a win five on Saturday. dicament. The two teams met three weeks since they cruised past American There are numerous positives The women’s water polo team was ranked No. 10 in the poll Lying in eighth place in AH, the ago at the Mercyhurst Ice Center International on the road, 8-3 on for the Lakers’ coaching staff to recently released by the Collegiate Water Polo Association team has 15 points to date, boast- and it was Air Force that domi- Dec. 2. take from the series with Bentley, (CWPA). The Lakers are set to kick off their season Feb. 10 ing a record of 6-16-5 overall and nated the series, sweeping the This was only the second time such as the solid goaltending when they travel to Slippery Rock University for the Hunkler 6-12-3 in conference. Lakers 5-3 and 3-1. this year that the Lakers have from Wakefield, seven differ- Shootout. Despite the teams disappoint- “Air Force will be a tough trip, been able to record back-to-back ent players scoring over the two ing record, Gotkin and the team but there are no easy games in victories this season. The last games, excellent execution with The team finished last season with a school-record 15 wins, are upbeat and positive about the Atlantic Hockey,” said Gotkin. time they were able to do this was the man advantage plus the re- finishing the season ranked No. 10 in the polls. Mercyhurst was remainder of the season. The Lakers enjoyed a few days against Holy Cross and UConn turn to action of key players. the lone Division II program in the top-10, finishing just behind “We are far better than our off this past weekend as they had back in late October. Mercyhurst’s return to form large Division I schools such as George Washington and Harvard record suggests and I believe a break from action. Gotkin gave The return of two key players against Bentley will have a few Universities. during the season we have im- his players some much needed from injury in junior forward teams above them looking over proved,” said Gotkin. time off, which is something of Ben Cottreau and senior forward their shoulders in the remaining The team returns to action a rarity during season. Scott Champagne appeared to weeks of the regular season, in Quick hits are compiled by sports editor Ryan Palm. Any- this coming weekend against Air Mercyhurst will travel to Colo- be a key factor in the Lakers’ what is set to be an interesting thing worthy of being a “quick hit” should be emailed to Force in Colorado. The Falcons rado full of confidence after the performances. finish to conference play. [email protected]. are 10 points ahead of the Lakers team claimed five points from Cottreau had been out for