The Merciad, April 26, 2006

Vol. 79 No. 21

Flasher caught with pants down
By Joshua Wilwohl Editor-in-chief
Mercyhurst College students can now reopen their window blinds without fear of anyone revealing themselves. The infamous “flasher” lurking around campus was arrested Saturday. The suspect, 34-year-old Jeffrey Malinowski of Erie, was charged with one count of open lewdness, according to Police and Safety Chief Ken Sidun. The arrest came after a student informed police and safety of a suspicious man on the upper parking lot by the Audrey Hirt building. “We received a call and quickly focused all cameras on the lot to discover a man with his pants down,” said Sidun. The suspect was apprehended in the

MERCIAD
Mercyhurst College 501 E. 38th St. Erie Pa. 16546 April 26, 2006 - Ken Sidun
related incidents in early March. According to Sidun, police and safety plans to perform a lineup with Malinowski in order to bring those additional charges against him.

THE STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF MERCYHURST COLLEGE SINCE 1929

THE

Charity Ball helps out Erie community
By Ryan Palm Sports editor
This past weekend Mercyhurst Student Government (MSG) and the Student Activities Council (SAC) put on a Spring Charity Ball. The event was held Friday night, April 21, at the Masonic Temple in downtown Erie. The Ball was MSG/SAC’s new alternative to its traditional formals, with this version featuring a more formal atmosphere. Prior to dinner MSG presented the International Institute of Erie with a check for $1,500 to go toward the organization’s operational budget. Each year MSG chooses a local charity to be the recipient of the funds, with MSG’s body approving the Institute as this year’s choice. A representative from the Institute was on hand Friday night and took part in a check presentation ceremony immediately before dinner. The event featured a buffet dinner including roast pork, stuffed chicken

The International Institute of Erie received a donation from the Ball.

and a number of side dishes. Following dinner there were several hours of dancing with DJ services provided by Tony from Pecadillos. The event was widely considered a success by those who attended, as the absence of alcohol served at the

Holocaust survivor shares memories
By Jessica Kocent Contributing writer
Eva Mozes Kor, a Holocaust survivor, tells of her perserverence. She believes it was her will that simply would not allow her to die after being exposed to unspeakable treatment at Auschwitz concentration camp. Kor spoke in the Walker Recital Hall to a large audience, at 7:30 p.m. on April 20. Kor and her twin sister Miriam survived the Auschwitz concentration camp in Poland. The sisters were victims of Dr. Josef Mengele’s experiments conducted on twins at Auschwitz. Kor has devoted her life to public education of the Holocaust. She has appeared on Oprah, 60 MinHolocaust experiences. Kor has created the organization Children of Auschwitz Nazi’s Deadly Lab Experiments Survivors, (C.A.N.D.L.E.S) for survivors of the Holocaust, along with organizes a mock trial of Dr. Mengele, a guided trip for survivors back to Auschwitz and was the forerunner of a class action suit against the Bayer pharmaceutical company for their part in Dr. Mengele’s experiments in the concentration camps. She spoke about her experiences in the Holocaust, how she survived and the importance of moving on. Kor described when she first arrived at the camp. “Once the SS guard knew we were twins, Miriam and I were taken away from our mother, without any warning or explanation. Our screams fell on deaf ears.

Katie McAdams/Photo editor

Eva Mozes Kor described life in Auschwitz concentation camp.

utes and Good Morning America. She also won an Emmy for her work on a documentary about many of her

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

OPINION
Round Two: What grinds the Malarky’s gears

Page 10

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parking lot by Erie Police Corporal Dan Morris. According to Police and Safety Director Rodger Gregorich, however, police and safety will continue investigating until the department can discover who is responsible for the other three

We wanted to catch him. We worked on surveillance in the buildings and in the parking lots.

Mallinowski’s arrest was one week after the release of the “timely” notification issued to students about the “flasher.” The notification came 42 days after the first incident. Sidun said that police and safety did not find the man to warrant a threat and worked around the clock to find him. “We wanted to catch him,” said Sidun. “We worked on surveillance in the buildings and in the parking lots.” One victim, Amanda Kaiser, said she feels at ease now that a suspect is arrested. “I always felt uneasy walking through campus at night,” she said. “Now I can relax from that nervousness.” Sidun said the arrest will close the case. “We caught the guy,” he said. “That should put an end to this.”

Corrie Thearle/News editor

Numerous cars were ticketed on Briggs and Lewis on April 26.

Tick-eted off Tickets issued on Briggs and Lewis
By Jessica Kocent Contributing writer
Sixty-two students who parked their cars on Briggs or Lewis Avenue Monday night, awoke on Tuesday to find an unexpected parking ticket on their vehicles. Each ticket was $25 dollars totaling $1,550 for the city. According to Erie Police Capt. T.J. Fuhrmann, students can get the tickets canceled. Those who were ticketed on Briggs or Lewis avenues in the early morning hours Tuesday should bring their tickets this week to the Mercyhurst Police and Safety office or to the College Relations Office at 416 Hamermill. Police and Safety chief Ken Sidun said he would take the tickets to the Erie Police Station so Capt. Fuhrmann can cancel them. Fuhrmann said that, “technically” the cars were parked illegally, but acknowledged that the students were honoring the spirit of the law. He said that he must have the driver’s copy of the ticket in order to cancel it. Signs are posted on the east side of the street and read “No Parking Tues. 8 a.m.-4 p.m.” Fuhrmann said the signs are for snow plowing in the winter and street sweeping in the summer. Katie McAdams, Photo Editor for the Merciad said she was walking on Briggs Avenue around 2 a.m. and saw a policeman walking from car to car ticketing them. Please see Numerous on page 3

Ryan Palm/Sports editor

event proved to provide a better atmosphere. A committee of MSG/SAC members planned the event, with MSG member and newly appointed SAC Chair Kelly Cofrancisco serving as the event chairperson.

Lumen literary magazine unveiled
By Lakyn Bianco Contributing writer
The capstone event of the Mercyhurst Literary Festival, the unveiling of the Lumen literary magazine, will be held April 26, at 7:30 in the Taylor Little Theatre. All in attendance will receive a free copy of the Lumen. The unveiling reception will include a demonstration of the CD and readings from Lumen authors. The event will culminate with the presentation of awards for best piece of poetry and best short fiction. The winning authors will each receive $250 and a formal award certificate. Editorial Advisor Ken Schiff explained that over the years Lumen has evolved from a traditional literary magazine to a more experimental one because of what the Graphic Design Department has been able to do with the inclusion of an interactive CD. Under the supervision of Design Advisor Jodi Staniunas-Hopper, the graphic design students of the 2006 Lumen have been able to make this year’s magazine even more creative and experimental using 3D design. Not only does this year’s interactive CD include poetry and fiction, but also clips from the Dance Department. Schiff explained, “I’m very excited about this year’s Lumen because of the high quality of the submissions and because of what the Graphic Arts Department has been able to do.” “With the inclusion of the graphic design, music, and dance pieces Lumen has become not just a literary magazine but an arts journal representing all creativity on campus,” Schiff said. The English Department’s 2006 Literary Festival began in February with readings from author Randall Silvis. The Festival continued in April with workshops and readings from author Robert Coover and poet Li-Young Lee. All of the events were an introduction leading up to the conclusion of the this year’s Literary Festival, the Lumen unveiling reception.

A&E
Who got the last laugh in the stand-up comedy competition

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THE MERCIAD

April 26, 2006

NEWS

To contact: [email protected]

World Briefs
Compiled by Jessica Kocent From BBC News

Excellence on display
Honors Research Symposium exhibits posters and presentations
By Chelsea Boothe Copy editor
On April 23, from 6 to 9 on the second floor of Hirt, the Mercyhurst Honors program held their third annual Research Symposium. The event was open to all students and faculty, and they could enter either a poster or present research they had been developing. This year’s event exhibited over 40 poster presentations, almost every honors thesis and eight faculty members presented their work. All the poster presentations were laid out in a self-guided manner so that spectators could come and go as they pleased. However, both the seniors and faculty members who verbally presented has specific time allotments. Matt Peterson, a senior in the honors program, was in charge of the event. “It was an opportunity for students and faculty to share research over the past year.” Peterson believed it was a very meaningful event that allowed for the Mercyhurst community to see what different members had been working on in their field. Ron Dorchak, an HRIM major, presented his thesis at the Symposium. Dorchak looked at old industrial cities in the Rust Belt that were deteriorating after rubber and steel factories chronically closed. He then researched the effects the hospitality industry

International news
Vietnam elections
Vietnam’s Communist Party has announced that Nong Duc Manh will be re-appointed as its general secretary for another five year term. The announcement was made during the closing session of the eight-day National Party Congress in Hanoi. The new leadership faces the task of continuing economic reforms while combating widescale corruption. T here have been several high-profile scandals in recent months. Several senior transport ministry officials have been accused of using state funds to bet on football matches and buy luxury cars.

Above: Senior Ted Winslow presented his research on: “Fish Pathogens in the Great Lakes” at the Symposium. Right: Dr. Gerard Barron discussed his research on: “The Effects of a Brief Mindfulness-Based Intervention on Perceived Stress in College Freshmen.”

Serbs charged with murders in Kosovo
War crimes prosecutors in Serbia have charged eight former members of the Serbian security forces with murdering 48 ethnic Albanian civilians. All but one of the victims were from the same family. They were shot dead in March 1999 during the war in Kosovo. The ex-policemen were accused of herding the group into a cafe in Suva Reka, southern Kosovo, and shooting them dead.

Zarqawi unveiled
A Web site has posted a video message which shows an unmasked man who appears to be the Iraqi insurgency’s most wanted leader, Abu Musab alZarqawi. The Jordanian-born militant has until now only been linked to audiotapes, photos and masked men in videotapes. U.S. experts told the BBC they believed the recording was genuine. He has been accused of orchestrating attacks and suicide bombings against U.S.-led forces and Shia Muslims in Iraq and has a $25 million bounty on his head. The fugitive is also suspected of involvement in the beheading of the American Nick Berg.

has in the cities that are now rebuilding. Dorchak examined the possibility that would allow it to be applied to other cities, primarily Detroit, to help them rebuild as well. After completing his presentation, Dorchak said, “Going through the thesis process of writing and presenting is some-

thing I will take with me at all levels in my life, both at the graduate level and in the workforce.” “Although a daunting task it was worthwhile and I’m glad I did it,” he said. The presenters came from many different fields, with different levels of expertise. Peterson considered it a very successful event, and he was

excited for the opportunity it brought him. Although Peterson will be graduating this year, the honors program plans on continuing this new tradition of holding an honors symposium every spring. The entry forms are open to all students and faculty, and they hope to have even more participation in the future.

Soaring oil prices lead to investigation
By Ron Hutcheson Knight Ridder Newspapers
Responding to growing public frustration over soaring gasoline prices, President Bush called Tuesday for a nationwide investigation into possible price manipulation. But even as he announced other steps intended to free up gasoline supplies, Bush warned that prices are likely to climb higher. On Capitol Hill, members of Congress called for more drastic action, including a new tax on oil profits or the possible breakup of big oil companies. “Enough is enough. We have no competition,” said Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., who hopes to spark a Senate debate on the structure of the oil industry. The finger-pointing and calls for action illuminated a sad truth for consumers: While gasoline prices have become a hot topic in Washington, no one has an easy solution, and none of the proposals suggested so far are going to bring prices down much or soon. “Short term is tough. We’re living now with the consequences of policy decisions that were made over the past several years in countries, and instability among key suppliers,” he said. Bush acknowledged that his proposals would make little difference in the short term, but said, “Every little bit helps.” For example, the president directed the Energy Department to delay oil shipments this summer to the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, the government’s fuel stockpile. Holding off on government hoarding leaves more oil for the open market but not much more. Administration officials said the change would free up about 12 million barrels of oil over the summer, a drop in the bucket compared with the 20 million barrels that the nation consumes daily. “It’s more symbol than substance,” Sandalow said. KRT photo The increased demand for ethanol has raised concerns about possible shortages Bush called for a nationwide investigation that could lead to even higher prices in into the soaring gasoline prices. some parts of the country. Skeptics also questioned Bush’s call for some cases, over the past several decades,” said David Sandalow, an energy expert at the an investigation into possible price gouging. Brookings Institution, a center-left policy- In any case, Bush and his top advisers already have rendered their judgment that gasoline research center. “The core of the problem is skyrocket- prices hikes reflect the free market, not coring demand in the United States and other porate skullduggery.

Canal expansion
Panama has announced an ambitious $5.3 billion plan to widen its famous canal to handle a new generation of giant container ships. President Martin Torrijos described the project as a “formidable challenge” but necessary if the canal is to retain its place as a key route for global cargo. The plan is due to be put to a national referendum later this year. Polls suggest the majority of voters back the project, which is set to create several thousands jobs. In a televised speech, Torrijos said the plan was, “the most important decision about the canal and its role in the 21st century.”

Belgium youth MP3 murder suspect held
Joe Van Holsbeeck was with a friend at Brussels central station on April 12th during the evening rush-hour when he was stabbed five times in the chest after refusing to hand over his digital music player. A Polish-born youth, 16, has been taken into custody but police believe a second youth has fled to Poland. Initial reports that the suspects were of north African origin had threatened to destabilise community relations, with Muslim leaders calling for calm. On Monday about 80,000 people, including the victim’s family, took part in a silent march in Brussels to protest over the murder.

Expanding diversity across the globe
By Courtney Stuempges Contributing writer
A mixture of ethnicities on a college campus brings about an increase in education on ethicality, principles and informal relationships among the students. This concept of diversity has been discussed by educators to benefit the school through its faculty and student body. Dr. Thomas Gamble, Dr. Missy Breckenridge, Ed Grode and other faculty members at Mercyhurst are trying to pursue this idea. Dr. Pan, Mr. Katana and Professor Lin arrived at Mercyhurst on April 17. They traveled from Fuzhou, the capital city of the Fujian Province, located on the southeastern coast of China. The visitors and faculty members discuss cooperative efforts between Mercyhurst and the Fuzhou Foreign Language, Foreign Trade and Technical College. The day began with lunch, a tour of the college grounds and ended with brainstorming various ideas that would be constructive to both schools, including: technology, international business and finance, masters in leadership programs, obtaining visas for Chinese students, student and faculty exchanges and/or visitations, Curriculum (Mercyhurst and Fuzhou) and teaching American English in Fuzhou. All the visitors agreed that Mercyhurst should be commended for its student/faculty ratio and also the safety of the campus. Representatives from Mercyhurst were invited to attend the Fourth China Technology and Projects Fair this summer in China. The trip is currently under consideration, as well as the possibility to sign an agreement between the two schools. If this agreement is to go through, “The future is unlimited,” Grode said. The Toeful, a test foreign students must pass to get into foreign schools, will be taken during the month of May. Mercyhurst requires an entrance score of around 550 which is significantly higher than most other schools who often require scores nearer to 500. A direct exchange program between Mercyhurst and that of Fuzhou would not only increase the ethnicity on campus but would also increase the likelihood of select students here at Mercyhurst College having the chance to study abroad in Fuzhou, China in the future. The authors of the 2002 Harvard Educational Review, stated that “…diversity efforts by colleges and universities, not only as a means of increasing access to higher education for greater numbers of students, but also as a means of fostering students’ academic and social growth.” Breckenridge stated that, “It is a very serious consideration to see all possibilities to address a move towards diversity and cultures, increasing the ethnicity here at Mercyhurst College.”

Money and Malaria
The World Bank has been accused of publishing false accounts and wasting money on ineffective medicines in its malaria treatment programme. A Lancet paper claims the bank faked figures, boosting the success of its malaria projects, and reneged on a pledge to invest $300-500 million in Africa. The bank has denied the allegations and says it is investing $500 million to $1 billion over the next five years.

April 26, 2006

THE MERCIAD

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To contact: [email protected]

News

Police and Safety Log
Theft Student Union 14 April Pending Investigation Liquor Law Violation East Main Drive 22 April College Discipline Case closed Open Lewdness Parking Lot #2 Upper ramp 22 April Charged/State Criminal complaint Case closed Criminal Mischief 613 East 38th Street 23 April Case closed

Numerous cars ticketed overnight
Continued from page 1 Sophomore Dustin Hankinson said he moved his car Monday night as always and was stunned to find a ticket on his car Tuesday morning. He went to the College Relations office to see if anything could be done about what he said was an unfair deal. Junior Laura McCarthy agrees with Hankinson. “I am upset about this…I followed the rules and moved my car only to wake up this morning and see that the Erie police had ticket everyone.” When asked what she planned to do, McCarthy replied, “I am probably going to call the traffic court and find a way to fight this.” According to the District Magistrate, Joseph LeFaiver, when a ticket is issued a person has two choices: to pay the citation right away or wait until they get a second. The second citation will be issued a few weeks later and the fine will be increased. Eventually after a series of these warnings and fine increases, a citation summons is issued. The person then has the opportunity to plead their case in front of the District Magistrate, and he will decide as to whether they will have to pay the fine or not. However, this could be a problem for Mercyhurst students, who will be going home for the summer. On July 1, the City of Erie is entirely revamping its traffic court system. Though most changes should not be going through until the summer, people may not even have the opportunity to go through the citations summons process, and may just have their cars towed by the city under a new towing ordinance.
Corrie Thearle/News editor

Criminal Mischief Student Union 17 April Pending Investigation

Liquor Law Violation/ Disorderly Conduct 3810 Lewis 18 April State Citation/ College Discipline Case closed Criminal Mischief 3938 Lewis 22 April Pending Investigation

Disorderly Conduct Egan Cafeteria 23 April College Discipline Case closed Theft Mercy 200 23 April Case closed

Many students were surprised to find a ticket on Tuesday.

Harassment By Communication Off Campus 22 April Pending Investigation

March of Dimes strives to save new life
By Alecia Guerra Contributing writer
April 30 is the annual March of Dimes in Erie. This event takes place at Presque Isle. Mercyhurst Student Government will be providing transportation to those who are interested. The shuttle departs the union at 11:30 a.m. and will be returning around 3:30 p.m. This is a great opportunity to get everyone in the Erie community involved. The event also takes place during kids-n-sibs weekend and students’ siblings are invited to walk as well. Participants can enjoy a day of walking with friends and family and it is an excellent opportunity to help the local community. Mercyhurst College has a March of Dimes team and would like to add a few members. They will be raising sponsor money and participating in the Presque Isle walk. Participants need $10 in sponhealth: prematurity, birth defects and low birthweight. Last year, more than 24,000 teams participated in WalkAmerica with pride. Teams are made up of special people who come together to enjoy the day while raising money to save babies. Senior Carla Morreale has participated in the walk since she was a freshman. She explained, “It was an encouraging and friendly atmosphere that was really energetic about a great cause!” Carla is looking forward to the event this year and hopes to see a lot of her classmates there. You can help the March of Dimes fight prematurity by taking steps in WalkAmerica. Join WalkAmerica and a million compassionate people nationwide who care about saving babies. Participate in the name of someone you love: a premature baby, a healthy baby, your own baby or the baby of a relative or friend.

Holocaust survivor
Continued from page 1 soldier. That was the last time I saw her,” Kor said. Though, one could see how she would be angry about many of her experiences, Kor discussed the importance of forgiveness and no longer being a victim. Kor also talked about her experiences after the Holocaust and the death of her sister, who died in 1993 of a rare kind of cancer that Kor believes was a result of the experiments performed by Dr. Mengele. Lastly, she told how everyone can apply the lessons she learned in the Holocaust to everyday life. Kor said that one must never give up, reduce prejudices and heal oneself by forgiving everyone. Kor believes that she survived the Holocaust because she refused to give anyone the power to take away her life and truly can serve as model of strength and wisdom to the world. Kor was brought to Mercyhurst with use of the Academic Enrichment Grant. Dr. Christine Colin, professor of history, has done extensive research on the Holocaust and comparative genocide. She met Kor at a conference in Krakow, Poland, in 2001 and was very moved by her character. Colin says that she was “struck by her courage, strength, and optimism…Eva is truly a survivor, not just of the Holocaust, but in all of life.” “She has taught me that we empower ourselves and that each of us has the ability to move beyond being victims. In her strength of character and her faith in life, I have found great inspiration and drawn much courage,” Colin said.

KRT photo

March of Dimes provides care for premature babies.

sors to sign up through the Mercyhurst group. Participants also get a free T-shirt to walk. If you have any other questions or want to get on the team you can contact Kelly Cofrancisco at kcofra99@mercyhurst. edu or Brittany McCracken at [email protected]. The March of Dimes is dedicated to saving lives. Their mission is to improve the

health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. They carry out this mission through research, community services, education and advocacy to save babies’ lives. March of Dimes researchers, volunteers, educators, outreach workers and advocates work together to give all babies a fighting chance against the threats to their

Proficient professors
Teaching Excellence Award to honor faculty
vice president of strategic planning. Hosey has been involved with the Teaching Excellence Award for many years and says student nominations are taken very seriously. It is time for the college to select a faculty member The award began in 1990 in an effort by the Searsfor this year’s Teaching Excellence Award. Roebuck Foundation’s Teaching Excellence Award Everyone is urged to participate in the selection Program to honor college and university faculty. by submitting a nomination letter to the Office of Although the Sears Foundation no longer sponAcademic Affairs located in sors the award, the college Old Main 104 by April 28. continues to honor a faculty We encourage Nominees for the award can member each year. be any instructor that a student students to participate Any full-time faculty memfeels has positively affected ber’s nomination will count because they are them this past year. with the exception of those very important in Academic Affairs is looking previously awarded. for someone who is dedicated Past honorees include Mike whom we select. to the education of each MercyCampbell, Ed Gallagher, Rob hurst student and someone who - Missy Breckenridge Hoff, Barry McAndrew, Mary has always kept the college’s Hembrow Snyder, Bud Brown, mission statement in mind. Barbara Behan, Heidi Hosey, Associate vice president in the office of aca- Alice Edwards, Mike McQuillen, Michael Federici demic affairs, Dr. Missy Breckenridge, stresses the and Phil Belfiore. importance of students’ opinions in the selection The winner will be announced during the week of this year’s winner. of May 7 and the award will be presented to the “We encourage students to participate because winner at the End-of the-Year Faculty Meeting they are very important in whom we select,” said held on Friday, May 12. Breckenridge. The honoree will also speak at commencement Student nominations usually account for at least and be featured in the commencement booklet. half of all nominations, according to Heidi Hosey,

By Zoe Contes Contributing writer

Mercyhurst freshmen awaiting court trial
By Amanda Harnocz Contributing writer
Four Mercyhurst freshmen are still awaiting their preliminary hearing on charges related to an alleged assault on March 9 in downtown Erie. According to Erie police, Theo Hall, Aaron Hayes, Dwayne Marshall and Richard Stokes, allegedly dragged Dennis Fohner outside and beat him after they were asked to leave a downtown club. Fohner was taken to a local hospital for treatment of a broken arm. The four students are charged with criminal conspiracy, simple assault and disorderly conduct. They were suspended from the football team until the case is resolved in court. The hearing date had been set for April 19, but is moved to April 28 at 9 a.m. in front of District Justice Joseph LeFaiver.

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FEATURES
Walker School of Business building a connection
By Katie McAdams Contributing writer
Mercyhurst freshmen can feel isolated living mainly at one part of the campus and having no idea what it is like living on the opposite side until they become sophomores. For some, that may be too late and they may decide that Mercyhurst is not for them. Jill Slomski, assistant professor of marketing, says this has become a problem for faculty who advise freshmen. “(We) professors are finding it more difficult to reach out to all the advisees that we have,” Slomski said. “Most of the time, I do not get to know the students until they become upperclassmen, when they are sitting in my classroom.” As the college’s student population grows, the faculty need to give students more help. The Walker School of Business has created a mentoring program to do just that. The mentoring program will be created between juniors and freshmen. Juniors will be able to help direct the freshmen towards what professors to take, what activities to do, and where to hang out. “Sometimes if you have a friend that is an upperclassman, it might prevent you from leaving the school and it will also create a better relationship inside the department,” Slomski said. This year the Walker School of Business created Greek alphabet t-shirts to promote the department and to generate a fun atmosphere. Students and faculty bought more than 400 shirts. Just like real world business people do, the Walker program did this to create an image. Here, the Walker School of Business is just doing that. They are promoting themselves to give themselves a unique identity within Mercyhurst.

April 26, 2006

THE MERCIAD

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To contact: [email protected]

By Joshua Wilwohl Editor-in-chief
Mercyhurst College senior Phou van Doreuang is the most interesting native Thai on campus. But, who exactly is he? Most people on campus may say, “Oh, he’s that foreign kid in my history class;” but, such common sayings quickly vanish when you first meet him, because you – like I – never forget him. His playful humor and philosophically-driven ideals on life urged me to figure out who the man is inside the tanned skin. Ideals Despite his relocation from Bangkok, Thailand, to Rochester, N.Y., the posh Phou maintains the idea of giving all one can and not getting anything in return. “Nothing with value comes without effort,” he cheerfully said while sipping a fine Burgundy. Love Residing off campus to “have fun” this “Volcano” as he describes himself is erupting with creativity and lava of love. This love flows into his life of bachelorhood, though he always says he is on the lookout for “someone who is refreshingly original” and “has a smile that would want me to stay for a while.” He noted, however, he was in love once. But, she ran away with his dog. Favorites Phou’s favorites are narrow, yet philosophical. Color: clear. His idea behind such a “color” is he “…loves everything the way it is” and “would never change a thing.” Drink: Water. “Like every good thing,” he said. “It’s pure.” Place on campus: Garvey Park. He loves the array of flowers that juxtapose with each bright face passing through every day. Place in Erie: The Cornerstone. “It’s like the show ‘Cheers,’” he said. “Everyone knows your name and the people who run the operation are top notch.”

Returning to our roots
By Melissa Jack Features editor
This past Saturday was Earth Day, a day progressively increasing in its importance as each day we learn of more evidence of a possible environmental crisis we may now be experiencing due to our current lifestyle. Many people believe that a change in our fundamental ideology, or a return to nature, is necessary to reverse the ill-effects our actions and decisions are having on the environment and start the healing process. On Friday, April 21, Dr. Rene Laventure, an eco-pyschologist, visited Mercyhurst to plant the seeds of change in 15 individuals on campus who were open to this unique, and what most would consider, radical experience. What exactly is an eco-psychologist? Dr. James Snyder said, “Ecopsychologists claim that our current environmental crisis, in its many forms of resource depletion, pollution and waste, is a function of a psychological crisis. The nature of this crisis is one of a sense of disconnection from nature as a whole, particularly non-human nature.” Laventure quoted Paul Shepard, who was a leading ecological philosopher, “To be living in a modern world is to be living in an age of psychological and material disconnection from nature.” Some people, especially ecopsychologists, go as far as to say that there exists a new pscyhological disorder comparable to attention deficit disorder: massive nature deficit disorder. Laventure said, “We all used to know what it was like to depend on nature for survival; we understood this materially and lived it psychologically. We no longer do this, but we all still remember what it was like deep in our unconscious.” Part of the solution to the environmental crisis is psychological; to change the way we live we have to change the way we think. To think differently about who we are and what nature is we have to experience nature. What about those college students who enjoy going to the beach, hiking, camping and tanning? Isn’t that experiencing nature? Snyder explained, “If you only approach nature for its entertainment value, then all you get is entertainment, there needs to be a deeper, more meaningful connection.” Laventure provided the 15 individuals with the opportunity to see how this deeper connection can be made. After meditating in the Grotto she told them to, “just wander, and when something catches your attention and is calling you –whether it be a tree, rock, bird or feather – go to it and sit next to it.” Her next request was out of the ordinary: she suggested asking their ‘companion’ its permission for them to sit there, and then they were supposed to introduce themselves to it. This process, as Snyder explains, is to “reinforce a notion of gratitude and respectfulness toward nature, which in turn makes it a reverential experience.” As a well-known environmentalist, Thomas Barry, said, “In the absence of the sacred, nothing is safe.” This reverential attitude helps you to see nature as sacred, therefore keeping it safe from our materialism. This also gives you an experience of being interconnected with nature; where you usually take nature for granted you now see yourself as one with nature. Laventure said, “At one point we were both the hunter and the hunted.” Because of this we knew that we were not outside the cycle of life, that were are plain members of a biotic community. We have forgotten in this modern society of steel skyscrapers, cement streets, computers, refrigerators and electricity that we are still part of nature – and if it weren’t for the cycle of life we would not be here. This is reminiscent of Agent Smith’s observation in “The Matrix:” “I tried to classify your species. I realized that you’re not, actually, mammals. Every mammal on this planet instinctively develops a natural equilibrium with the surrounding environment, but you humans do not.” “You move to an area and you multiply until every natural resource is consumed. The only way you can survive is to spread to another area. There is another organism on this planet that follows the same pattern...a virus. Humans beings are a disease, a cancer of this planet.” Snyder agreed with this concept, “This is not to say that human beings themselves are a cancer, but that our ideology has become a cancer. It is the story that we now believe of our being above or outside nature – as if we are the only exceptions to the laws of nature.” Eco-psychology, if approached with an open mind, is a way to reestablish our fundamental dependance and connection with nature. Some may call this process – and view – radical, however some would counter that it is radical that we don’t feel this connection and reverence for nature. Whatever the case may be, it is being made clearer that some form of change is necessary to halt the perceived environmental crisis that we are in, and returning to our roots is a logical first step.

The wonderful world of Phou
Professors: Dean Michael Victor, Jill Slomski, John Byrtus and Lee Belovarac. “They have so much confidence in what they say that the confidence rubs off onto the student,” he said. “They show the way to brilliancy.” “Think of me like Gandhi.” Phou said he hopes that when his name is spoken that Gandhi would come to mind. “Gandhi is a role model because he got what he wanted through nonviolence,” he said. “And just like him, I am a pacifist and getting what you want through power of the mind is better than through the fist.” Future This philosophical Thai lives each day as it comes. “Looking at the future is like staring in the mirror,” he said. “It gives you something to do, but in the end, it does not get you anywhere.” Despite his mellow philosophy, Phou noted he was hired with Quicksilver Surfing Co. in San Diego. So, next time you see “that Thai guy” walking through campus, stop and say “hello,” he will surely enlighten your mind.

Katie McAdams/Photo editor

Get the “skinny” on spring’s hottest trend
town, or dressed down for a lazy, Sunday afternoon. From the bell-bottoms, to the flared leg, to the boot-cut, it seems as though jeans are getting slimmer and slimmer. Anyone can see that that theory is surely true, especially after checking out the newest trend in denim: the “skinny” jean. Quite possibly most women’s worst nightmare, the skinny jean, also referred to as the “cigarette” or “peg” legged jean, is the most tapered jean ever. Typically low rise on the hip and snug through the thigh, the skinny jeans just continue to cling to the leg all the way down to the ankle, whereas most other jeans flare back out at the knee. Trying a pair of skinny jeans on for the first time, I found it strange to have to shove my foot through an opening that usually is much wider. Peering around the corner into the big, 3-way mirror, I encountered an interesting sight. Not only did I feel like I was back in kindergarten wearing stretch pants with stirrups, my hips looked twice as big as they some of the material at the bottom, to avoid a blunt, straight leg ending directly at the ankle. A look embraced more easily by women is the look of skinny jeans tucked into tall boots, which many find easier to pull off. Finally, buy the skinny jean in a darker wash, which is always more attractive and trimming than a lighter wash. Similarly, the distressed look of last year is being pushed out and replaced by cleaner, basic finishes. The skinny jean is already a hit in certain areas geographically, and especially with celebrities. Seeing the skinny jeans on celebrities and in major metropolitan areas nation-wide has helped to fuel the sales of this style and even to bring it to smaller cities like Erie. With the dark colors, and even white making a come-back in the denim department, the skinny jeans are predicted to be big sellers well into summer. Even though you might have to ease yourself into this bold trend, it is definitely one worth trying. Start with a slim boot-cut and then work your way up to the complete skinny leg that leaves wearers with an ultra sexy look for the season. And remember, while trying on jeans it’s important to bear in mind: you’re butt is not getting bigger…the jeans are just getting smaller!

with Jen Gildea
really are. Although my initial reaction was less than pleasant, I tried to keep an open mind and remind myself of some important things about this new and curious style. I guarantee that all women will think that they could never pull off this style, and, in fact, the skinny jeans are not ideal for every body type. They are meant for a slimmer frame, otherwise they’re altogether unflattering. My advice as a retail worker is always this: Keep an open mind. The fit of the skinny jean is something that most women are not used to wearing and feel somewhat uncomfortable in at first. However, it is possible to pull the look off with the right additions to the outfit. First, the skinny jeans require a heel, unless you’re ultra confident to wear them with a flat. Putting on a pair of stilettos is an instant boost to your look, as it adds height, thus slimming the leg and making the narrow leg opening more appealing. Also, most people buy the jeans a little long so they can bunch of

In the fashion industry, styles are constantly evolving, coming up with new ideas and revitalizing past successes. Perhaps the most transforming area of fashion is denim. Denim has long been a staple in the closets of men and women around the world, even the most unfashionable. The sensation of denim is that it can be worn with practically anything and can be dressed up for a night on the

April 26, 2006

THE MERCIAD

To contact: [email protected]

FEATURES
obviously the competition will be keener for that same number of slots.” The academy was thrust into the national spotlight a year ago when dozens of former and current female cadets alleged the academy ignored their sex-assault reports. Some said they were punished for coming forward. The claims prompted a housecleaning of top officers at the academy and unprecedented changes in how cadets live, train and study and who provides guidance. Officers are required to have more specialized training, for example. The allegations also prompted a series of investigations, including a Pentagon inquiry that some officials predict won’t be complete until March or later. Insiders say the Senate Armed Services Committee, which has taken a watchdog role in the scandal, won’t schedule further hearings until the investigation by the Defense Department inspector general is completed. The committee has promised to give women who say they were assaulted a chance to testify. Who else will be called likely hinges on the inspector general’s findings.

PAGE 5

A healthier column
At home, and especially at college, one of my favorite quick meals is grilled cheese. Although Wonder bread with a slice of American in the middle covered with butter and fried might sound tasty, it is far from healthy. Here’s a spin on grilled cheese which will be sure to fulfill your appetite with a boost of nutrition. The beans, combined with a whole wheat tortilla will provide protein along with the cheese. If you are careful not to use too much cheese, the recipe will be low in fat. In addition, there is ample opportunity to introduce other ve g e t a b l e s s u ch as chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes or other favorites for an extra boost of nutrients.

With Jen

Record applications in Air Force despite scandals
By Pam Zubeck Knight Ridder Papers
A record number of women have applied to attend the Air Force Academy despite a year of turmoil triggered by the sex assault scandal. Academy officials credit the spike to “an element of patriotism,” the ease of online submissions adopted two years ago and steps taken to address allegations the academy’s climate is hostile to women. Academy spokesman Johnny Whitaker said officials hope the surge in female applicants demonstrates a heightened “trust and confidence” in the overhaul of cadet training and reporting procedures to prevent sexual assaults and deal with attackers. “We hope some of it is attributed to the attention the academy has gotten over the last year and the action we’ve taken to alleviate sexual assault – all those things we have done to take this place to the next level of excellence,” Whitaker said. Every year academy officials winnow applications to 1,300. “The class size remains roughly the same,” Whitaker said, “so

Quick Quesadillas
Ingredients
½ can fat free refried beans ½ can diced mild green chiles 2 8” wheat tortillas ¼ cup grated mozzarella cheese 1 tablespoon fresh Cilantro Salsa

Directions
1. Spread half of the beans and chiles on one half of each tortilla. Sprinkle the cheese and cilantro onto the filling. 2. Warm a skillet on medium heat. If you want the tortilla to be crispy you can add a bit of cooking spray or margarine to the pan, but it will turn out great without it. 3. Heat each tortilla in the skillet. When the cheese softens, fold the plain half of the tortilla over the filling and cook each side for about 2 minutes or until the cheese is melted. 4. Serve with salsa. Makes one serving (2 quesadillas)

Vasquez breaks barriers at Mercyhurst
By Kristen Piquette Contributing writer
Mercyhurst’s campus is full of faces from around the world. These students travel from many different countries to attend Mercyhurst and gain the opportunities of an American education. A large portion of those students are from Honduras. Melissa Vasquez, a junior premed major, is one of the many students from Honduras who have journeyed to Mercyhurst for her college education. Coming from an Americantaught high school in her hometown of Tegucigalpa, Vasquez felt more prepared for college in the U.S. than many others might. “The American school of Tegucigalpa made it an easier transition from Honduras,” Vasquez said. “The teachers were American and we learned a lot about your history and the culture.” Although her high school Photo courtesy of Melissa Vasquez prepared her for basic Ameri- Melissa Vasquez is President of the Mercyhurst International Student Organization. can culture, it did not prepare her for how much she would though they have gotten so big. cause they offered me a great are taught more. We get taught endure emotionally while away I feel bad because I am missing scholarship. I wanted to study in about many different subjects from home. a lot of their childhood and the U.S. to gain the opportuni- instead of just one. We come out “It was hard adjusting to not they are missing a lot of my life ties that would come from the [of school] better well rounded seeing my friends and family,” as well.” education,” Vasquez said. “The [compared to Honduras]. With Vasquez explained. “I feel like I Being separated from her fam- scholarship helped me achieve an education like this one there am missing out on the little mo- ily was a big decision. Vasquez that and save my parents some are many more opportunities ments in my family’s lives. I am knew that she was making the money. I am planning on at- that are possible.” missing little things like birthdays right choice for her future even if tending medical school so the The opportunities become reand other family experiences. My it meant being away from home scholarship helped a lot. ality in part because of the intersiblings are younger and every for so long. “There are a lot more op- national program at Mercyhurst time I come home they seem as “I came to Mercyhurst be- portunities here,” she said. We which helps students prepare for their college experience. The program advisors not only are available before the international student’s journey begins, but during it as well.

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The biggest barrier living in the United States would be the language.

- Melissa Vasquez
The program helps many students who need support when they find it hard to cope with being separated from their family for so long. “Freshman year, teachers and staff made it a little easier since I was so far away from home,” Vasquez said. “Eric Evans would give me rides to the airport if I needed one or let me use the phone to call home if I had not talked with my parents in a long time.” Honduras has many obvious differences from the United States. “The biggest barrier living in the United States would be the language,” Vasquez said. “Although it helped to have gone to an American high school, I still find myself trying to say something but having to translate it before I say it.”

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“Another big difference is the way that you greet each other,” she said. “There is no kissing or hugging. The distance which you stand from one another was another very big adjustment for me.” To break these barriers and help the international students learn more about the American culture and vice versa, students formed the Mercyhurst International Student Organization. Vasquez is its president and says it is a great opportunity for students to get to know more about the different cultures surrounding Mercyhurst. “The Mercyhurst International Student Organization was created so that American students can get to know more about the culture of the international students on campus. It is open to all students so it is also a great opportunity for international students to get to know more about American culture as well,” Vasquez said. “We take many trips around Erie and even to Canada so that the international students can gain those experiences. They get to know the surrounding areas and get to know more about the culture that they are living in,” she said. Anyone wanting to know more about, or get involved with, the International Student Organization attend one of their meetings held on Thursday nights at 9 in the international affairs office, next to the health center.

If you really think about it, trust your gut for decisions
By Lisa Anderson Knight Ridder Papers
Got a tough decision to make? Got a complex set of circumstances? Got all the facts? Good. Now, forget about it for a while. Then, follow your gut. Counterintuitive as it may be, those rusty old saws about taking a deep breath, getting some distance from a problem and “sleeping on it” turn out to be right on the cutting edge of modern psychology. For a fast-moving society drowning in data and overloading on options, this is, well, food for thought. In a recent issue of the prestigious journal Science, Dutch researchers reported that the more complicated the decision, such as pondering the acquisition of a house or a mate, the better the outcome if one simply doesn’t dwell on it. “It feels like it’s the completely wrong way to make such an important decision,” said Ap Dijksterhuis, the leader of the psychology study at the University of Amsterdam. “It turns out that in some circumstances it’s far from sub-optimal. It’s the best thing you can do.” “What I found in doing the research I did was the very same thing,” said Lynn Robinson, a Boston-based corporate consultant and author of several books on intuition, including “Trust Your Gut: Using the Power of Intuition to Grow Your Business,” scheduled for October publication. “A lot of people will say, `I immerse myself in data, look at all the facts, and then I listen to my gut.’” Robinson also subscribes to the “sleep on it” school of decision-making, literally. When confronted with a problem or decision, she said, right before bedtime she will frame a question about what she’s worried about. “Then I ask the question as I’m going to sleep. In the morning, I’ll find the answer kind of formed in my sleep. An idea will kind of pop up in my mind,” she said. That’s no surprise to Dijksterhuis. “I discovered that `to sleep on it’ is almost the same expression in all Western languages,” said the researcher, whose study, “On Making the Right Choice: The Deliberation-Without-Attention Effect,” appeared in the Feb. 17 issue of Science. “Sleeping on something has a lot of power for a lot of reasons,” said Dr. Judith Orloff, an assistant clinical professor of psychiatry at UCLA and author of three books on intuition. “One is that the linear mind is shut off during sleep, so it’s pure intuition.” Michael Horowitz, a clinical psychologist, psychoanalyst and president of The Chicago School of Professional Psychology, pointed out that yoga, running and other kinds of intense exercise that demand attention to the physical are used by many people to free up their unconscious minds. “We need that quieter, nonconscious process that lets us integrate different sources of content. In a sense, you’re not letting go ... You have inputted the data to the computer, and now you’re letting the computer do the work. Think about it the other way: If you keep sitting there and poring over the data, you can’t be attending to the full data.” “A good leader doesn’t get all the data before making a decision. A good leader gets enough data,” he said. The power of the unconscious mind is underrated and underused by many, Horowitz said. “The brain doesn’t stop just because we’re not conscious. A smaller example of that is when we forget, when we can’t think of a name or a song, the way we get it is to stop working on it,” he said. Malcolm Gladwell, who popularized the potency of gut instinct in his 2005 best seller, “Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking,” made a similar point. “Decisions made very quickly can be every bit as good as decisions made cautiously and deliberately,” he wrote. Horowitz said, “You can get addicted to conscious, rational processes. But, particularly since we know, more and more, that so much of our emotion and thinking is not conscious, why spend all our energy for attribution there?” “I think that approach is a mistake and if we are to learn to improve the quality of the decisions we make, we need to accept the mysterious nature of our snap judgments. We need to respect the fact that it is possible to know without knowing why we know and accept that – sometimes – we’re better off that way.”

PAGE 6

THE MERCIAD

April 26, 2006

OPINION Campus Question Pain at the pump If you could change one
To contact: [email protected]

Gas and oil prices continue to rise, leaving many uneasy

KRT

Gas prices are spiking all over the country with prices for a regular gallon of gas pushing, and sometimes exceeding, $3.00.

Will Swafford, sophomore, intelligence studies

Kate Hansen, senior, political science

Brian Kettl, senior, biology

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Mercyhurst needs to provide its students with better athletic facilities. They should add a pool to the campus and expand the work out and gym recreation area to allow more students to work out at once and have a larger variety of work out and recreation choices.

Only so much energy: We’re living large; let’s hope it isn’t in the dark
Editorial, Dallas Morning News Knight Ridder Newspapers
Ah, such irony. Our families are smaller, but our houses are larger and suck more power than our parents’ humbler homes did a generation ago. It’s easy to gnash teeth about this week’s rolling power outages in North Texas, but they’re a symptom of a problem that Americans don’t like to face. Our modern lifestyles are energy intensive, and we don’t mean just the gallons of gasoline in our cars and SUVs. Our parents had a television, a refrigerator, a stove, maybe an electric shaver, a vacuum cleaner, a toaster and a few small electric clocks. But we have big houses, make that huge houses, air conditioning, home and office computers and big-screen televisions. Even our churches are mega. There also are more of us, and in an era of conspicuous consumption, conservation is an unpopular virtue. If, as a nation, we’re not quite ready to adopt simpler, energy-efficient lifestyles, then we’re risking either living in the dark or spending more of our disposable income for energy needs. It’s not all that simple to add more energy sources, especially to add them quickly. It’s a lot easier to make the individual changes that add up to energy wisdom. Take North Texas. As a region with a serious pollution problem, don’t look for new coal-fired power plants to pop up and solve everything. And as natural gas prices rise, the cost of electricity from gas-fired plants will also rise. Add the cost of generating power and extending transmission lines to new residential communities, and the big picture is worrisome. Energy companies may benefit from higher prices. For the rest of us, however, energy costs are expenses, which is another way of saying that the dollars we spend to cool our homes are dollars that won’t go to savings, investments or month-tomonth budget needs. Don’t confuse us with Thomas Malthus, who incorrectly predicted that population growth would eventually outstrip the food supply. There were a few missed data points in his analysis namely, the impact of technology on productivity. People are starving around the world for political, economic and distribution reasons, not because the world can no longer produce the food to keep up with the population. Nonetheless, the modern reality is that Americans have to think about energy and our lifestyles. Our emphasis can no longer be how to get more energy; it also must be how we can use energy more efficiently. Alternative energy sources are needed, but there also must be a will to conserve. The question now is what threshold of pain must be endured before Americans abandon the deepseated cultural mind-set that we have a divine right to disposable and affordable energy.

Chris Waheibi, sophomore, business-marketing

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Mercyhurst needs to get a more diverse student population. I’m sick of seeing and hearing the same type of people with the same views every day.

Britt Rescsanski, freshman, dance

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Mercyhurst needs to have more food choices. I know our campus is small but the same food gets very boring.

Meghan Pugliese, freshman, art therapy

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Stop increasing tuition every year. Also, a less shady administration running the school.

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the Titanic,” Peter Beutel, president of Cameron Hanover. Additionally, Bush’s energy plan calls for the U.S. to, “follow suit on what we have been emphasizing, particularly through the energy bill, and that is to encourage conservation, to expand domestic production, and to develop alternative sources of energy like ethanol.” Bush’s energy plan seems incomplete to some Democratic members of Congress like Sen. Charles Schumer, D-New York, who criticized the president after his speech. “The president today just spoke about high gas prices. And to listen to the president, you’d think that it’s the local gas station that’s the problem,” Schumer said. “We all know it’s the big oil companies who are causing these massive price increases that go way beyond what supply and demand would merit. There were five words missing from the president’s speech today: ‘Get tough on big oil,’ “ Schumer said. When one looks at Brazil, which is on target to achieve energy independence in about a year, it is frustrating that the United States is so far behind, and reluctant, to break off its abusive relationship with oil. President Bush himself has regarded America’s addiction to oil as being a threat to national security. Using this language, you would think something drastic would be done considering Iraq and terrorism was categorized as threats to national security and we’re at war with each. Why not a war on oil? The answer to that question lies in Washington, where Bush and Cheney are oil men and the majority of Congress is at the mercy of big business. If any good comes out of the pain at the pump, it’s the continued research and investment into alternative energy sources. However, without substantial support, not just lip service, from the government, big oil will continue to reign, leaving the country vulnerable with inevitable disaster looming in the future. Efforts in conservation, science and technology must be supported by government or America’s addiction will continue with citizens footing the bill.

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Americans are generally apathetic when it comes to politics. Many people fail to see how government policies and current events impact their daily lives. Well, if you drive, the connection is now painfully clear. Gas prices have been fluctuating for a few years now with occasional breaks . . . that is if you consider $2.00 a gallon to be a real break. The past few weeks, however, has left Americans reeling with prices spiking an average of 13 cents per gallon and the price of oil spiking at $75 a barrel. While these figures are a source of comfort for some on Wall Street and the suits in the oil industry, the public is less than enthusiastic. With summer, the busiest driving season, fast approaching, the national average for a gallon of gas is hovering around $2.91. Compare this to the federal minimum wage of $5.15 an hour and it is easy to see how high gas prices can severely affect many Americans. In a CNN poll, 23 percent responded that current gas prices are causing “severe hardship” in their family, while 46 percent are claiming “moderate hardship.” Many Americans already struggling to make ends meet are now finding survival much more difficult and middle class Americans are feeling the pinch and are limiting travel when possible. While the majority of Americans are being negatively affected by the price of gas and oil, the fat cats in the oil industry are at the top of the world. Oil companies have enjoyed record profits in 2005, with Exxon Mobil leading the way with $36.1 billion in profits, which by the way, is the largest profit ever recorded by a U.S. firm. Exxon Mobil’s record success comes directly from emptying American wallets. To top it all off, Exxon MoOpinion editor bil’s CEO is set to retire with a cool $300 million, while Allison retaining Moore company benefits. Additionally, while ser ving as Exxon Mobile’s CEO, it was estimated he was making $100,000 a day….that’s right, a day. It is not a stretch to imagine the frustration felt by the average American when hearing such astronomical, inconceivable figures, and it is easy to understand why many think they are deliberately being manipulated. The outcry from American citizens has generated a response from the government. This past Monday, Speaker of the House Denis Hastert, R-Illinois, and Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tennessee, urged the White House to launch a federal investigation to uncover price gouging or market speculation. The White House has heeded that request, calling for the Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission to urge state attorney generals to enforce the laws aggressively. President Bush has also unveiled an energy plan, calling for deposits for the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve to be delayed temporarily until the fall in order to keep more oil on the market. The amount of oil this action would place on the market is nowhere near enough. “It’s less than 30,000 barrels a day in a country that consumes 21 million. That’s not even rearranging a single deck chair on

thing about Mercyhurst, what would it be and why?

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Mercyhurst does not embrace the ROTC program like they should. Other schools reward students who plan to serve their country. At Mercyhurst they seem to punish your initiative.

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The Res Life department doesn’t respect the students as a general rule. I would change their lack of responsiveness to students’ needs and their hierarchical attitudes regarding housing. Res Life should care more about helping students and less about themselves and their positions.

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April 26, 2006

THE MERCIAD

PAGE 7

To contact: [email protected]

OPINION

With summer soon approaching, realize staying comfortable in an air conditioned house may soon come with a side of thyroid cancer. With the increase costs of fossil fuels used for fuel and energy there has been a call for the revival of nuclear power. Nuclear power, for the most part, appears somewhat safe, clean and cheap. Such tales have been spread around recently since nuclear power has become an enticing option to provide energy to third world countries and to retire the older, dirtier power plants in the Western World. Global warming is a hot debate in the science community as well as in political circles across the country. Serious talks of nuclear power plant Ellen development Koenig have been taking place among circles as an alternative form of energy and to lift the burden of economies and the world from oil and fossil fuels. Iran announced the possibility of developing a nuclear power plant, among other nuclear byproducts, China is currently importing uranium from Australia to possibly build another plant and Europe is looking into the possibility as well, despite opposition from many citizens and anti-nuclear groups. With the nuclear hustle and bustle all about, one must recall 20 years ago. The former Soviet Union learned the hard les-

Nuclear isn’t the answer for energy woes

son of using nuclear power ineffectively when an explosion at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine caused unrest for people living in Eastern Europe and Western Russia. Between the dates of April 25-26 1986, there was an explosion in one of the reactors located about 80 miles north of Kiev, the lid of the reactor was blown off from the explosion and a cloud of radioactive material loomed over the nuclear power plant and the nearby community that housed employees and their families. Radioactive waves are not visible to the naked eye; the health effects environmental consequences may take hours or even years to see results. This past month numerous publications and media have revisited the abandoned Ukrainian town, pictures show pre-schools and homes left the way they were when the inhabitants were evacuated soon after. Like an eerie ghost town, nature has taken its claim on the town and has begun to grow over different buildings and roads. The anniversary falls right in the center of another energy crisis, only the crisis falls on the hands of the consumers, not the suppliers. Even if plants were to be built, they would require massive government subsidies, not to mention the hazardous waste material left over from splitting the atoms. Nuclear waste from the last 20 years has found its new home currently being stuffed into the hills of the Sierra Nevada desert courtesy of the United States government. Nuclear energy has no benefits; however, other sources of energy are found to be very beneficial, such sources the sun, wind, water, agriculture and other natural products.

The Good, the Bad, & the Ugly
The Good
The Mercyhurst flasher was apprehended earlier this week to the relief of female students. The flasher, a 34-year-old from the community, was caught pants down Saturday night at 9:30. The women of Mercyhurst can now breathe easier . . . although keeping your blinds closed when you change is always appropriate, whether there’s a flasher on the loose or not. The men’s lacrosse team beat nationally ranked number two C.W. Post on Saturday. The men are on a roll and are now ranked number three in the nation. Fans celebrated at the conclusion of the game . . . including a happy-go-lucky streaker who was willing to bare all for victory.

The Bad
It’s 60 degrees in Erie and that can only mean one thing: half-naked girls running around campus, or in this case, frolicking in Munson Plaza’s fountain. First off, 60 degrees isn’t that warm and second, the fountain isn’t a public pool. No doubt, seeing the sun after a long dreary winter creates euphoric emotions, but there has to be another way of celebrating . . . a dryer, less exposed way perhaps?

The Ugly
Early Tuesday morning, 60 lucky Mercyhurst students woke up to bright orange Erie City Police parking tickets on their cars. As all upperclassmen know, students are not permitted to park on the east side of Briggs and Lewis on Tuesdays. Like every other week, students ventured out late Monday night to move their cars. While the signs clearly state parking on the west side of the street is only permissible on Tuesdays from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., students have routinely moved their cars prior to 8 a.m. without penalty. We know it’s the rules, but why the sudden change?

Step up for the Marine Corps: military branch asks for recognition
Editorial, Chicago Tribune Knight Ridder Newspapers
No service branch shows more respect for tradition than the U.S. Marine Corps does, which makes it all the more ironic that tradition denies the corps an important show of respect: Equal billing with the other service branches. The Continental Congress ordered “two Battalions of Marines” to be raised in 1775 as landing forces for the Navy. The Marines have remained within the Navy on government organization charts ever since, even though the corps functions through wartime and peacetime as a separate branch in every other way. Like the Army, Navy and Air Force, the Marine Corps has its own command structure. Its commandant holds equal status with other members of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, which happens to be chaired for the first time by a Marine, Gen. Peter Pace. Several Marine veterans and supporters have launched an online petition drive to support a bill proposed by Rep. Walter B. Jones. The North Carolina Republican, whose district includes Camp Lejeune, wants to fix the matter simply by changing the Department of the Navy to the “Department of the Navy and Marine Corps.” Jones has twice passed similar measures in the House with bipartisan support, but the Senate was cool to them. Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman John Warner, a Virginia Republican, veteran and former Navy secretary, has promised “fair consideration” for the legislation. That’s Senate-speak for a reluctance to commit. His reluctance seems to be rooted in a sense of tradition. But sometimes its good to break with tradition. The War Department, for example, became the Defense Department after World War II. The Army Air Corps was elevated in 1941 to the Army Air Forces and in 1947 to the autonomous Air Force. The Marines have not asked for complete autonomy. Nothing structurally needs to change in their relationship with the Navy, which has served both branches well. The corps only asks for recognition. Having served their nation proudly and courageously since colonial days, the leathernecks have earned a promotion.

Ask the Malarkys
What grinds our gears, part II
As the year comes to a close, the limit of my patience is beginning to wear extremely thin. In this second round of what really grinds my gears, I have a multitude of issues to bring to the table of annoyance. Because there was a succession of sunny days last week, my Existentialism class was held outside near the fountain. Normally this would be an extremely enjoyable experience if it were not for the numerous annoying students that also come out of the Ms. woodwork Malarky with good weather. Fo r e x ample, not only did the grassy area near Baldwin turn into a near-nude beach with freshman girls sunbathing, it also attracted another group of bathers, ones that climbed into the fountain. I’m guessing with the oh-so-hot temperatures in the high 50’s and the refreshingly freezing cold fountain water; both these groups of people were simply enjoying the warm weather. However, I might not be taking into consideration that these students were probably freshmen, who instead of watching MTV in the student lounge or throwing up at parties, decided to mix up their routines with a dip in the fountain. At least it’s a nice change from the original act of someone adding soap to the water, which is always hilarious every week. Another thing that annoys not only me, but a large number of other undergraduates, is the constant comments and opinions voiced by non-traditional students in class. I’m pretty sure these students have a large base of personal experience due to the fact that most of them have children that are also in college, but this does not mean that everyone in class need be privy to their vast array of knowledge. If the teacher asks a question, answer only that question. Please don’t go off on a tangent that revolves around foreign affairs and religion when you’re in a statistics class. Just because a non-traditional student is as old as the professor, does not mean that the teacher/student relationship changes. I’d like to preface this weeks article by contextualizing the last article written before Easter break. My editor received a few calls one of them threatening violence against me (teeth knocked in) and one by my ever late classmate claiming I wanted him dead. Yes, he showed up late the next class. I’d like to set the record straight and say that I’m not interested in killing anyone nor did I threaten to. The wording used was quite ambiguous and th rea ten ing someone with violence by Mr. Hitler is like Malarky threatening someone with a dead dog. For those of you concerned my name is Jeff Allen; I can be contacted at ext. 3153, [email protected] and via AIM at JMA1285. I’m not in the business of apologizing so I’ll continue to the sometimes humorous portion of this column. Do you know what really grinds my gears…Officer Scott Kornetz who decided to write about 100 college kids tickets this Tuesday to the tune of $25 a piece. What a champion! He is an absolute defender of Erie parking statutes and subsequently the constitution of The United States of America and should be rewarded with frankincense and myrrh. Some people argue ultimately that rules are rules and all of us offenders should gleefully pay the amount and move on with their lives having supported Erie’s struggling economy. Unfortunately, the reality of the situation is that I don’t have $25 and I therefore object. I suppose that grinds my gears a bit, too, but I’ll get back to blaming other people for my problems. Does the city of Erie expect us to get up before 8 a.m. to move our cars to the other side of the street so they can plow the unrelenting April snow? I smell bull. Finally, what grinds my gears to a great degree is that only one concerned student has taken it upon himself to streak at a sporting event. Is it that we just don’t care? Do we need more PR? Let’s see some full exposure out there next week!

The
Joshua Wilwhol Corrie Thearle Melissa Jack Allison Moore Ryan Palm Melissa Brandt Katie McAdams Kristen Piquette Chelsea Boothe Emily Crofoot

MERCIAD
Editor-in-Chief [email protected] News Editor [email protected] Features Editor [email protected] Opinion Editor [email protected] Sports Editor [email protected] A&E Editor [email protected] Photo Editor [email protected] & Production Editor [email protected] Advertising Manager [email protected] Copy Editor [email protected] Graduate Assistant [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 letters to box PH 485.

KRT

PAGE 8

THE MERCIAD

April 26, 2006

ENTERTAINMENT
tHe BuZz
APRIL 27. Gretchen Wilson, Van Zant, Blaine Larson. Wolstein Center, Cleveland State, Cleveland. APRIL 27. Chris Carrabba of Dashboard Confessional (solo acoustic). Hammermill Center, Erie. APRIL 28. Diane Schuur, Yellowjackets. State Theatre, Cleveland. APRIL 29. Colin Mochrie, Brad Sherwood. Warner Theatre, Erie. APRIL 29. Bela Fleck and the Flecktones. State Theatre, Cleveland. APRIL 30. Black Eyed Peas, Pussycat Dolls. Bryce Jordan Center, State College. MAY 1. INXS. Heinz Hall, Pittsburgh. MAY 2. James Taylor. Shea’s Performing Arts Center, Buffalo. MAY 3. Supersuckers. Beachland Tavern, Cleveland. MAY 4. Artie Shaw Orchestra. Allen Theatre, Cleveland. MAY 5. Mae, Blackpool Lights, Over It. House of Blues, Cleveland. MAY 5. Cherry Monroe. House of Blues (Cambridge Room), Cleveland. MAY 6. Whispers, Peabo Bryson, Blue Magic. Palace Theatre, Cleveland. MAY 6. Edwin McCain. House of Blues, Cleveland. MAY 6. Raul Malo. Beachland Ballroom, Cleveland. MAY 7. Black Clouds and Underdogs Tour with Fall Out Boy, All-American Rejects, Hawthorne Heights, From First to Last. Blossom Music Center, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. MAY 7. Ice Cube. House of Blues, Cleveland. MAY 9. Blue October, People in Planes. House of Blues, Cleveland. MAY 9. Anna Quindlen. Ohio Theatre, Cleveland. MAY 10. Eddie from Ohio. Beachland Ballroom, Cleveland. MAY 10. Say Anything, Bled. Grog Shop, Cleveland. MAY 11. David Allan Coe. Denny’s Bar and Banquets, Edinboro. $25 advance, $30 at the door. MAY 12. Tim McGraw, Faith Hill. HSBC Arena, Buffalo. MAY 13. Tim McGraw, Faith Hill. Mellon Arena, Pittsburgh. MAY 13. Avenged Sevenfold, Coheed and Cambria, Eighteen Visions. Tower City Amphitheater, Cleveland. MAY 14. Live. House of Blues, Cleveland. MAY 16. Koufax. Grog Shop, Cleveland. Courtesy of GoErie.com.

ARTS &

To contact: [email protected]

Border-hopping bride
By Christina Ferranti Contributing Writer
Israeli filmmaker, Eran Riklis, directed and co-wrote the film “The Syrian Bride” with a Palestinian TV journalist, Suha Arraf. While shooting a documentary about Israel and the difficulties with its borders and surrounding countries, the director was struck by the image of a young bride caught both literally and figuratively between locations and cultures. The beginning of the movie portrays a young woman named Mona who is about to embark on the “saddest day of her life” knowing that once she crosses the border to marry a man she has never met before, she will never be able to return and see her family again. The film stars Clara Khoury as Mona, a young Druze woman who has the opportunity to cross the border into Syria for an arranged marriage with a television star. The pressure is immense with this marriage being a one-time opportunity to cross the border. One situation that Mona seriously needs to consider is attending her wedding party from several hundred meters away communicating through a bullhorn. This bizarre practice is disconcerting; a woman gathered with her entire family to celebrate such a joyous event, but must ultimately remain separate from the actual wedding ceremony due to border issues between Israel and Syria. The image is diorenting, seeing the two families uniting but physically separated by a border. This film does not focus on the Jewish people but the Druze, which are members of an Arab religious sect that derive from Islam. However, the group currently lives in Golan Heights, which lies on the border between Syria and Israel. The Druze are official Israeli citizens, but their culture assimilates practices and traditions taken from the Syrian culture. Photo Courtesy of the PAC By going into Syria, Mona will have more freedom and opportu- ‘The Syrian Bride’ battles country restrictions in her journey for freedom and opportunity. nity, but will not be able to cross authorities that worry about the The bride’s sister, Amal, played paced life with his various callow back into Israel to see her family chaos in Golan with border con- by Hiam Abbass, strives to be girlfriends and expensive tastes. again. trol between Syria and Israel. liberated from the patriarchal Mona gives up seeing her family “The Syrian Bride” was shot on Makram J. Khoury plays the tradition, which in turn yields and leaving behind her culture location in the Druze town of father of the bride in the film resentment from her husband. and traditions by crossing the Majdal Shams, occupied by Israel and is also the real-life father of The brothers of the bride have border, but all in all, she is acsince 1967 and set on the day that the woman who plays the bride, both strayed from the tradition tually choosing liberation and Bashar al-Assad succeeded his and a pro-Syrian activist. of the family with one son vio- freedom. father as ruler of Syria. He was recently released from lating tribal taboo by marrying A dream all families wish to The entire situation is filled jail on parole, but still has a strong a Russian woman and living realize one day. with tension and conflict es- desire to protest, especially now elsewhere. This film is playing at the PAC pecially concerning the Israel with his daughter’s situation. The other brother lives a fast- on May 10 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

‘American Dreamz’ of vanity and naïveté
Controversy comes to the surface by the character President Staton (Dennis Quaid), which is a parody of President Bush, that plays off how he is negatively seen in the media. President Staton is a flaky, naïve man who is unaware of current events (reading a newspaper is a rare occasion for him) and he is the puppet of his chief of staff (Willem Dafoe) whose job is to defend President Staton against rumors. While dealing with the press about the certainty of upcoming terrorist attacks, the chief of staff ’s main goal is to boost the president’s image. In an attempt to make this happen, he seeks out Tweed. Knowing that the president “…needs more PR than we do…,” Tweed agrees to help the president in getting some positive publicity by allowing him to be a guest judge during the final round of the show. While on the search for the proper contestants who will give “American Dreamz” the added edge, Tweed discovers Sally Kendoo (Mandy Moore), a female version of himself. Sally dumps her boyfriend William (Chris Kline), feeling that she is definitely on the road to fame while believing he will stay in the state he is in, forever a slave to their small town dreams. In the hopes of proving himself a man of worth in Sally’s eyes, William joins the army and after being shot on his first day in Iraq, he is sent home. Believing that human interest determines who wins “American

Mandy Moore co-stars with Hugh Grant in this satirical look at American society.

Photo courtesy of www.americandreamzmovie.com

By Sarah Caram Contributing writer
Director Paul Weitz brings to the screen a hilarious and controversial film that mocks the extremely popular television show American Idol, which has captured a wide variety of audiences throughout its various seasons. Hugh Grant successfully puts

his British charm and suaveness to use in delivering a stunning and amazingly witty performance as a version of Simon Cowell, the ruthless and brutally honest judge who can take a great deal of credit for making “American Idol” a must-see in the eyes of many. Grant plays sarcastic, obnoxious and completely self-centered businessman Martin Tweed, creator of Tweedy Productions

and head of the world famous show “American Dreamz,” who dreads another season with every fiber of his being. Tweed is tired of the carbon copy contestant and is looking to spice the show up by bringing in “freaks” (as he so pleasantly puts it). Due to the current war going on in Iraq, Tweed makes a notorious decision by demanding an Arab and a Jew contestant.

Dreamz,” Sally’s agent pushes her to get back together with her “returning war veteran” to win fans. Another character that becomes a vital player in this story is Omer (Sam Golzari), a trainee of the army of Afghanistan, who while not feeling like he belongs with the other soldiers, feels at home with his love of singing along to show tunes. After being sent to live with his aunt and uncle in America, Omer is discovered by the “American Dreamz” crew who mistake him for his cousin Iqbal (Tony Yalda), who previously sent in an audition tape to the show. Meeting Tweed’s demand for an Arab contestant, Omer is cast in the show and is next discovered by the Western Command. Omer is soon ordered to make it to the final round so that he can perform an on-air assassination of President Staton. Does Omar’s love of the American peoples’ kindness keep him from going through with his ordered mission? Will President Staton learn to live up to his full potential while thinking for himself, rather than depending on his chief of staff ? Well, you will have to see the film to find out. “American Dreamz” also addresses America’s addiction to the alleged cause of the “dumbing down of America,” the twisted, dog-eat-dog world of reality television.

2006 Interior Design Senior Exhibition
By Melissa Brandt A & E Editor
Today the senior interior design students will have their projects displayed in the Cummings Art Gallery. The opening reception will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on April 26th. Projects included in the exhibit show interior designs for several different types of business. One project details the inside of a Fitness Center, another chooses a thematic design for a Body shop. The decor is interesting and clever, and everyone is encouraged to attend. The show will be on display Wednesday through Friday, so check it out as soon as possible! Gallery Hours: Monday thru Sunday, 2 to 5 p.m., and Thursday, 7-9 p.m.

A sneak peak at this year’s Interior Design Senior Exhibition in the Cummings Gallery.

Melissa Brandt/A&E editor

April 26, 2006

THE MERCIAD

PAGE 9

ENTERTAINMENT Llanos gets the last laugh at SAC’s event
To contact: [email protected]

ARTS &

By Jessica Ciccone Contributing writer
On April 22, in Taylor Little Theatre, students were treated to a night of comedy sponsored by SAC, entitled, “Last Comic Standing.” The show was attended by a large group of Mercyhurst students, who were eager to hear their classmates try their hand at being comedians. Celebrity host Chuck Mignanelli, who has worked on the Comedy Central shows “Crank Yankers” and “Meet the Creeps,” introduced the three student comedians, then entertained the crowd with his own set. The three brave students who competed using their comedy in the hopes of winning the audience’s approval were Steve Heranic, Kyle Linehan and Jon

Llanos. The young men took the stage for around 10 minutes each, and managed to keep the audience of students laughing throughout their entire half of the program. The winner of the night was senior Jon Llanos, who thoroughly amused the audience with recounts of his childhood. In particular, he related the story of how he tricked his brother into thinking he’d broken the head off a statue, when it was really Jon’s own friend who was to blame. Llanos’s professional presentation, his comfort on the stage and his natural ability in delivering a well-timed, well-worded joke won him the overall competition. Kyle Linehan and Steve Heranic were also great crowd pleasers, with Heranic coming in

second, and Linehan in third. Heranic entertained the audience with his stories of classic awkward high school dating. Linehan kept students laughing with his comments about poor cell phone reception, and interesting rides on the public transportation system. All three of the students who performed on Saturday night were admirably professional, comfortable and gifted in the art of comedy. Students who made it out for the show were impressed with how hilarious their classmates could really be. After the three student comedians had finished their sets, Chuck Mignanelli, who hosted the program, announced the winner, and then took the stage himself. The audience was then treated to a great round of professional comedy, in which Mignanelli

Jon Llanos, winner of SAC sponsored event, ‘Last Comic Standing.’

Katie McAdams/Photo editor

had the entire audience laughing with his various stories. They covered such topics as:

fun things to do with rental cars and the real reason fireflies light up.

Overall, the event was highly enjoyable, and very funny.

Don’t give blood or money for the new Mobb Deep CD
By Joe Fidago Contributing writer
This week I’m going to hit on a few CD’s because there are a couple of notable releases that are about to hit the shelves. First is Mobb Deep’s new album, “Blood Money.” They recently signed with GUnit, after releasing one album on Jive (“Americaz Nightmare”), which was stronger in its content than it was in sales. Signing with G-Unit was definitely a way to get their name out there, but I strongly disagree with the idea that it was the best option. If you remember the article I wrote a few months back about G-Unit and their talent (or lack thereof), I hit on the point that 50 Cent seems to think it’s a good idea to be everywhere you look. Apparently nothing has changed, as this album should be by Mobb Deep & 50 Cent – he appears on roughly 40% of the songs on the CD. No one wants to hear you singing anymore, Ja Rule – or does the rule you made that singing is feminine for some reason not apply to you? To the album’s credit there are a few decent songs, but compared to “Infamous,” “Hell on Earth” or “Murda Muzik,” this is a disgrace. Yes, I am bitter about it. My personal favorite 50 Cent moment is when he is in the back of a chauffeured Bentley in the “Outta Control Remix” video and he tells Prodigy that he is “in the hood.” You’re so gangsta, Curtis. On “Put ‘Em In Their Place”, Prodigy states that 50 Cent is “Curtis Billion Dollar Budget Jackson.” This is true – he may have a billion dollars to produce his albums now. It’s just a shame he has 50 cents worth of talent. When Havoc growls “G-G-GG-G-Unit!” and flashes a C-Note at the camera in “The Infamous” music video, it perfectly describes what this album is all about – their newly found money and their recently lost artistic abilities. “Blood Money” - what a crime. Moving away from the bad and the ugly, here’s the good. Taking Back Sunday came out with a highly anticipated new album, “Louder Now,” and it delivers. There isn’t as much screaming as you’ll find on “Tell All Your Friends” or “Where You Want To Be,” which doesn’t really matter to me personally. Their sound has definitely evolved since their debut…that was obvious on the last effort. This album is no different. You’ve probably got a good idea of what the songs are about lyrically, so I won’t go into that, but the highlights are “What’s It Feel Like To Be A Ghost?,” “Liar (It Takes One To Know One),” “Makedamnsure,” and a few others. The CD as a whole is a very solid effort – I suggest picking up the latter and skipping out on the former.

Photo courtesy of www.mobbdeep.net

Mobb Deep releases a disappointing CD, ‘Blood Money.’

We pay the most for your books!

CASH for BOOKS
Sell them back at the

MERCYHURST COLLEGE

BOOKSTORE

May 15th thru May 17th (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday) 8:30 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. Thursday, May 18th 8:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

PAGE 10

THE MERCIAD

April 26, 2006

SPORTS

LAKER

To contact: [email protected]

Softball 2-2 on weekend
Katie Clark shuts out Lake Superior State Saturday
By Bjorn Alnaes Contributing writer
The Mercyhurst softball team was looking for an upset in their doubleheader Friday against the No.18 nationally ranked Timberwolves from Northwood. The Lakers had previously beat Northwood during spring training, so they knew that if they brought their A-game the potential for a win or two was definitely there. It did not take long for the visiting favorites from Northwood to destroy the Lakers’ dreams, however. In the opening game, the Timberwolves’ first eight batters reached base, connecting for six hits, one fielder’s choice and one Mercyhurst error. Northwood never looked back after their magnificent start and came out of the game with a 9-1 victory. “They had really strong hitters and a couple of good pitchers,” junior Kim Griffin commented. “We struggled all day at the plate and could not string together any hits.” This game seemed to have set the tone for the day as the Timberwolves came out just as hungry in the nightcap and completed the sweep with a 5-1 win. Melissa Rizzo prevented the shutout with her lone lead-off homer in the sixth. Saturday the softball team was back in action to host the fellow Lakers from Lake Superior State University. The visitors have had a disappointing season so far with an overall record of 10-30 and a 0-14 in the GLIAC. Mercyhurst found themselves trailing an early 2-1 lead by LSSU, but Jacque Theurer singled home fellow senior Dana Moderick in the last of the fourth to tie the game 2-2. In the fifth inning it was all

Fava named GLIAC Player of the Year
By Chris Van Horn Contributing writer
Mariano Fava might not be the best player in the GLIAC, but he works harder than any other player. His work ethic and his performance on the tennis court over the last year have earned him the title of Player of the Year in the GLIAC. Fava has put together an impressive record this season for the Mercyhurst tennis team, which sits at 10-10 overall and 3-4 in the GLIAC. They finished the season with a 16-6 record in singles competition as well as a 16-6 mark in doubles competition with graduate student Dan Hersh. “Mariano works so hard. He plays tennis every day and still manages to earn good grades in school. He is a good kid and is well liked by anyone who knows him,” Coach Ray Yost said of his star player. “I never dreamed that I would win an award like this. Now that I have won, I have never felt like this before,” Fava said. Like any good athlete, Fava knows that his efforts don’t stop with winning this award. “Now that I have the title of Player of the Year I feel I have a certain responsibility to get ever better and live up to the award that I have been given.” Yost nominated Fava for the award. Winning it wasn’t easy, as Fava beat out players in the conference who are ranked in the top 10 in the country and have played on the professional circuit. Unfortunately for the men’s tennis team, a bid to the NCAA’s may be just out of reach. The top eight teams from each region qualify, and the Lakers now sit in the ninth position. “It’s great that I won the award, but I would trade the award for a few more team wins. This is a team sport and I would have liked to see our team finish a little better,” Fava said. The past week has not been all good news for Fava and his family who hail from San Francisco in the province of Cordoba in Argentina. Last Saturday night Mariano received some tragic news; “I received word that my uncle had died that evening. My uncle was like a second father to me. Winning this award could not have come at a better time for me and my family. I would like everyone to know that I have decided to dedicate this award to the memory of my uncle.” Fava has also developed the knack for being a quiet leader, one who lets his game do the talking for him. “Mariano is not the type of guy to get loud and fired up, although he has at times before. He just plays his game and that does all the talking for him,” Yost stated. “He has certain nervousness about him when he plays, and that keeps him on his toes and ultimately helps him out during a match.” “Mariano’s confidence is where he has improved the most. He knows that any time he plays he can win,” Yost said. Unlike the best players in the GLIAC who hail from Russia and Germany, Fava won’t be joining the pro circuit any time soon because he plans to stay in school and finish his degree. Coach Yost couldn’t be happier about Fava’s return to the team next year. “He will be the leader of the team next year, especially with the young recruiting class that we have coming in,” Yost said.

Katie McAdams/Photo editor

Dana Moderick (right) throws to first in a double play attempt. The Lakerssplit their four games this weekend, losing two to northwood and winning twoover Lake Superior.

Mercyhurst as junior Melissa Rizzo hit her second homer of the game (third of the weekend) to start off an impressive run for the Lakers. Mercyhurst plated two runs as junior Kim Griffin doubled in one and senior Kate Conochan batted Griffin in with a single to complete the inning for the Mercyhurst Lakers. Lake Superior hit a home run in the seventh to complete the score 5-3 in favor of Mercyhurst. “After Friday’s games we knew we had to come back to play Saturday,” Griffin explained. “SVSU is one of the weaker teams in the GLIAC and we went into the game with confidence knowing that we could beat them.”

Later the same day, Mercyhurst was looking for their second win in the nightcap. Junior Katie Clark got the only run of the game when Griffin singled home Rizzo. Clark also recorded her first career complete game shutout. Lake Superior went on to lose a doubleheader against Ashland the next day and now found themselves out of contention for a bid to the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Tournament. Mercyhurst is still in the trail for a spot in the GLIAC tournament and will be hoping to improve from last year when they came out of the tournament with two losses.

The team currently stands with 16-25 overall and 4-10 in the GLIAC. Sunday’s doubleheader against Saginaw Valley was postponed due to bad weather conditions, and a make-up date has not been announced. The Lakers will face Findlay (12-34, 4-12 GLIAC) next, at home at 3 p.m. on Friday. Findlay is certainly a beatable team for the Lakers. The Oilers actually sit below the Lakers in the standings The following day the Lakers will take on Ashland who currently sits in second place in the GLIAC, one game behind first place Wayne State.

Volleyball loses to Ball State in MIVA plyoff opener
By Andy Tait Contributing writer
This past weekend the Mercyhurst men’s volleyball season came to an abrupt end in Muncie, Ind. The Lakers fell at the first hurdle to No. 14 Ball State in the first round of the Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (MIVA) tournament. The Lakers (3-20) were seeded sixth and paired against the thirdseeded Cardinals who boasted an impressive 20-6 overall record. The two teams had met twice during the regular season with the Cardinals comfortable 3-0 winners on both occasions. Despite previous results against the Cardinals, the Lakers were hopeful of an upset as they came into the contest on the back of two promising performances. Unfortunately for Mercyhurst fans, the Cardinals proved to be too strong as they breezed into the conference semifinals, disposing of the Lakers in three straight games, 30-25, 30-23, 30-21. Seniors Nate Keegan and Dan Kick once again provided solid performances in what was their final collegiate game. Keegan led the Lakers with 10 kills, one dig, one block solo and one block assist for 11.5 points. Kick dished out 26 assists and nailed two kills for two points. Freshman Tim Wagner provided support for Keegan with 10 kills and six digs for 10 points. Wagner felt the team had performed well considering they were missing several key players. “Given our scattered lineup I felt that we pushed them hard and they showed why they are the No.14 team in the nation as they pulled away at key points in the game,” said Wagner. According to second year head coach Ryan Patton, the team’s record (3-21, 1-11) is the only unsatisfactory aspect of this season. “I thought we would win more matches than we did and there are, for sure, some matches where I look back and think what if,” said Patton. Despite the team’s record Patton felt the group had improved and were playing much more as a unit towards the end of the season. The results and stats support Patton’s claims as the Lakers either scored more points or won more games against every team when they met second time around with only one exception. “I think we showed a lot of character and resilience as we kept on working when it would have been so easily to figuratively quit,” said Wagner. Wagner directs a lot of credit to the team’s three seniors; outside hitters Nate Keegan, Brady Hunter and setter Dan Kick. One legacy that could last for a long time is that of Kick who broke the school’s record of career assists. Kick’s 3,467 assists surpassed the previous holder Greg Beato’s (1998-00) record of 3,450. “Breaking the record is something I will remember forever and obviously I am very proud of it,” said Kick. Kick’s parents even traveled to Juniata to witness their son break the record; something that will surely be treasured for a long time. Patton really appreciates what all the seniors have done for the program this past year. “Keegan, Brady and Kick, I think all appreciated that as a program we would do things better and they bought into it where others maybe would not or did not,” said Patton. The 2006 season may have come to a disappointing end for this young team and some sad farewells will have to be said to some important players and leaders. However, the future of the Mercyhurst volleyball program looks set to have a bright future. The team this year had a freshman recruiting class of eight players and the majority of them have seen a great deal of playing time. Freshman libero Kyle Miller is confident that his coach will continue to build for the future and bring them closer to success. “He (Patton) is an excellent coach. He has taught me so much about the game, but also how to relate it to life and what it takes to be a successful student-athlete,” said Miller. Fellow freshman Tim Wagner also feels that the team has reasons to be excited about the future. “Our conference is going to be in for a big surprise over the next few years because we are so young and with strong recruits added to the mix, our practice gym next fall will rival anyone else’s in the Midwest,” said Wagner.

Laker Spring Term I n n
Galley Grill
NEW ADDITIONS Lunch: Reuben Chicken Caesar Salad Loaded Nachos Tuna Melt NEW ADDITIONS Dinner: Chickan Parmesean Sandwich Pizza Sub Barbecue Bacon Cheeseburger Bacon wrap Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 8:00am-1:00 a.m. Saturday 1:00pm-1:00 a.m. Sunday 5:00pm-1:00 a.m.

Laker Express
New Wraps Buffalo Chicken Barbeque Chicken Veggie and humus Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato

NEW DEAL: Buy nine lunches ---and get the tenth FREE! Request receipts and present them to receive the free lunch.

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Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 11:30-9:00 p.m. Saturday 1:00pm-9:00 p.m. Sunday 5:00pm-9:00 p.m.

April 26, 2006

THE MERCIAD

Page 11

To contact: [email protected]

SPORTS

LAKER

Red-hot baseball wins 14 straight
Hot hitting from Lough and consistent pitching carry Lakers to 8-0 week
By Matt Jackson Contributing writer
It takes a complete team effort to reel off 14 straight wins like the Mercyhurst baseball team has recently done. But having a star to lead the way might be just as essential. The star of the Mercyhurst baseball team this season, at least offensively, has undoubtedly been sophomore centerfielder David Lough. Lough, who also plays football for the Lakers in the fall, has stepped up his game to an unbelievable level this year, improving on a freshman season in which he was second on the team in batting average at .333. “In baseball sometimes you have droughts while other times you are hitting the ball real well,” said Lough. “Right now and all of this year really, I’ve been seeing the ball much better. Plus I am a sophomore now and have that year of experience under my belt.” It’s hard to believe that Lough has had any type of drought at the plate this season. He currently leads the Lakers in almost every major hitting statistic including a ridiculous .706 slugging percentage, second best in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC). Lough also leads the team in average (.412), one-base percentage (.481), runs scored (53), hits (56), RBIs (49), triples (3), home runs (8), total bases (96) and stolen bases (26). Basically, Lough does a little bit of everything. Well, everything except maybe pitching, which is where even more stars have emerged on the Mercyhurst roster. John Mang, Adam Nine, and Brandon Mendola lead a pitching staff that carries a GLIAC-leading team ERA of 2.88, one run better than any other team in the conference. Nine has emerged as one of the top pitchers in the GLIAC with a 7-1 record and a 1.76 ERA. The redshirt junior is a perfect 6-0 against GLIAC competition including a win over Ashland, the No. 5 ranked team in the nation. The success of the Lakers is probably a surprise to the other teams in the GLIAC. The Lakers were chosen to finish sixth in the conference in the preseason coaches poll, However Lough Katie McAdams/Photo editor was confident right from the Senior Brandon Mendola picked up his fifth win of the year Sunday against Northwood University. start. “We had some good transfers currently tied for second in the “Grand Valley is an excellent the GLIAC regular season title. on winning and playing as a team (Joe Luli and Scott Monzel) come GLIAC and have moved up program with great players so we Grand Valley is also ranked No. we can take this as far as we let in and we were healthy going in to fifth in the North Central are going to have to bring our ‘A’ 5 overall in the nation. ourselves. We have the talent to our Florida trip at the begin- Region. game if we want to beat them,” While a lot of baseball remains both offensively and defensively ning of the season so we had Coach Joe Spano’s squad will said Lough. to be played, this is something to make this season one to rea good feeling about what lied have a chance to solidify their GVSU is two games ahead of to look forward to. If it were to member.” head,” said Lough. spot in the rankings and prove both Mercyhurst and Ashland happen, the Lakers would host Chances are this is a season The Lakers have improved themselves even further with a in the conference standings the GLIAC tournament. that will be remembered regardsignificantly from last year, al- four-game series this weekend but still has four games against “Anything can happen,” said less of the final outcome, but a ready eclipsing last year’s win against conference leader and both teams, which leaves an Lough. playoff appearance and maybe total of 25. No. 12 in the nation Grand Valley outside chance of Mercyhurst “We control our own destiny more would certainly add more The Lakers (31-11, 17-5) are State University (GVSU). passing both teams and taking so if we keep our minds focused to the memory.

We are all ‘witnesses’ to the reign of King James
By Ryan Palm Sports editor One of the perennial discussion topics on this campus is “who is your team, and what are they doing?” For months Clevelanders had to put up with too much talk about the black and gold. Now the tides have changed, the Super Bowl shirts are going on clearance, and the Pirates are 5-16 as of Tuesday. For a change, some of the big news is coming from the big city by the lake, a place that has only seen one basketball playoff win since 1997-98 season. By the way, in case you forgot, that was the year Shawn Kemp became the franchise’s first starter in an all-star game. A 21-year-old hometown kid has changed the sports scene in Cleveland in a big way. Many of you might remember Mark Price, Brad Daugherty or even Larry Nance in the history of Cleveland Cavaliers basketball. LeBron James is on a completely different level right now than any of those three have ever been on. Did I mention he is 21? For this past season, his second in the league, James averaged over 31 points, over seven rebounds, and over six assists per game. In his first career playoff game, he notched his 10th career triple-double, scoring 32 points, pulling down 11 rebounds and dishing out 11 assists. To demonstrate his ability to turn it on when it matters most, LeBron has scored 20 points or more in the second half 23 times, including scoring 15 or more in the final quarter 11 times. He was named Player of the Week three weeks in a row, the first NBA player to do so in history. He also has been named Player of the Month twice, the only player to earn the recognition.

Women’s lacrosse falls to Gannon 12-8
By Jim McCann Contributing writer
Last week started on a very positive note for the women’s lacrosse team when Breanna Haggerty was honored by two different lacrosse organizations for her performance in the previous week’s action. After the seven goal performance against Philadelphia that made Haggerty Mercyhurst’s all time single seasons points leader, the freshman was honored to be put on the Womenslacrosse. com Honor Roll and was named Offensive Player of the Week by the ECAC. Entering this week’s action, Haggerty had 44 goals (6 shy of the school’s single season record) and 73 points, which established a new school record. On Monday night, the Lakers took the field against cross-town rival Gannon for their annual rivalry game. Coming into the night’s action, Gannon had won the previous two contests and held a 9-2 advantage in the all-time series. After falling behind 1-0 early in the contest, Haggerty continued the field with a 12-8 victory. With the victory, Gannon improved their record to 11-5 on the season while dropping the Lakers to 8-8. Megan Foley played the entire game between the pipes for the Lakers and recorded five saves on 25 total shots. Gannon controlled nearly every aspect of the game as they held a slight edge in shots and face-offs while capitalizing on fifty percent of their free position shots. Mercyhurst held the advantage in ground balls and converted on one of their three free position shots. On Tuesday Mercyhurst edged Indiana University of Pennsylvania 15-13. In the contest Haggerty broke the school record for goals in a season on Tuesday with 53 goals on the year. French also came home with an honor, scoring her 100th career goal. Haggerty and French led the scoring with six and eight goals respectively. Mercyhurst will look to bring their overall record 9-8 on the season in what will mark the final game of the teams’ 2006 campaign.

COMMENTARY
He is second in the NBA in triple doubles with five, and last but not least, he is 21 years old. Near the end of the first quarter in Saturday’s game against the Wizards, the score was tied 18-18. James sensed the need to step it up, so he scored nine straight points, then assisted on a three-pointer that put the Cavs ahead 31-20 at the end of the quarter. James has an ability to turn it on when he needs to, a skill that puts him shoulder to shoulder with NBA giants Jordan, Johnson and Bird. James’s play Saturday had the arena in Cleveland shaking like it has never before. Call it the Gund, or “The Q” or whatever you wish, the place was flat out crazy on Saturday. Nike, who has James under a $100 million contract, was passing out black t-shirts that read “Witness” across the chest. The shoe giant has launched this “Witness” campaign all over Cleveland and on television, as well as on their Website. If you watched the game, or are a native Clevelander, you might have noticed a billboard across from “The Q” nearly the size of a football field that features James claiming, “We are all witnesses.” Did I mention he is 21? The campaign has the capability to be a worldwide phenomenon should the Cavs get out of the first round of the playoffs. LeBron has carried the Cavs into the playoffs with a good shot at getting past the first round, something the club has not done since 1992-1993. Here’s hoping the Merciad bosses are up for sending a reporter to a behind-the-scenes look at the NBA semifinals, I’d be willing to make that sacrifice for the good of the readers.

Katie McAdams/Photo editor

Breanna Haggerty scored her 53rd goal on Tuesday.

her remarkable freshman campaign when she pulled the Lakers even at one. However, this would be the last time the score would be tied for the game as No. 10 Gannon proved to be just a little too much for the Lakers to handle on the day. After falling behind 6-4 at half-

time, the Lakers surrendered the first five goals of the second half before Kristen Toomey notched her third goal of the game to bring the score to 11-5. A late surge by the Lakers fell short and despite goal scoring contributions from Haggerty, Page Christensen and Jessie Horeth, Gannon was able to walk off

Women’s golf finishes sixth at GLIAC Tourney
By Steven Barr Contributing writer
The Currie West Golf Course in Midland, Mich. played host to the GLIAC championships in women’s golf this past weekend, and the Lakers came in sixth place with a three round team score of 1052. The team managed to come in one stroke clear of last place Gannon University, but were well back of the champion Ferris State University, who scored 913 for the weekend. The Lakers were led individually by freshman Lynn Hlywa, who shot rounds of 85-83-85 for a total score of 253 that put her in a tie for 24th place. Next for the Lakers was senior Hilary McCall, who shot 90-84and 27 more on Sunday. The par 72 course measured 5,869 yards and was playing quite difficult. The individual GLIAC champion was Jamie Long, from the host team Northwood University, who fired 71-73-73 for a four shot victory over Ferris State’s Elena Robles. The eventual champion Ferris State Bulldogs only edged Grand Valley State University by three shots, yet were 51 shots clear of third placed Northwood. The two powerful GLIAC schools will be in action May 12 for regionals, and then GVSU will host the Division II national championships on May 10. As for the Lakers, they will wrap up the season this Tuesday with the one-day Gannon Invitational at Lakeshore Country Club.

Freshman Lynn Hlywa

File Photo

Senior Hilary McCall

File Photo

85 to finish alone in 30th place. Senior Amy Natalie shot a combined 271 for the Lakers, and freshman Kaitlin Brody was one shot behind her with 272. Natalie finished in a tie for 37th place, while Brody managed a 39th place finish.

Freshman Alanna Kirwan and Sophomore Jenny Halinda finished in 41st place and 43rd place, with scores of 274 and 279 respectively. The 54-hole event was played in an unusual format, with 27 holes being played on Saturday,

PAGE 12

THE MERCIAD

April 26, 2006

SPORTS

LAKER

To contact: [email protected]

Laker Sports “Quick Hits”
This Weeks Results...
Men’s volleyball.......................................April 22, L 3-0, Ball State Women’s water polo............................April 22, W 7-1, Grove City April 22, L 19-6, Michigan April 23, W 5-4, Slippery Rock Baseball......................................................April 19, W 3-0, Gannon April 19, W 8-2, Gannon April 22, W 9-0, Northwood April 22, W 6-2, Northwood April 23, W 9-0, Northwood April 23, W 3-0, Northwood Men’s lacrosse........................... April 19, L 20-4, Wheeling Jesuit April 22, W 10-9, C.W. Post Women’s lacrosse....................................April 24, L 12-8, Gannon April 25, 15-13, Indiana Univ. Softball.........................................April 19, W 6-1, Wheeling Jesuit April 19, W 20-4 Wheeling Jesuit April 22, W 5-2, Lake Superior April 22, W 1-0, Lake Superior

Katie McAdams/Photo editor

The men’s lacrosse team rang the Sr. Damien memorial bell three times after their win against No. 2 C.W. Post.

In the news...
Linder and Rand Athletes of the Week
The Mercyhurst College Athletic Department named men’s lacrosse player Bryon Linder and water polo’s Cassie Rand its Athletes of the Week on Monday. Linder had a big week for the Lakers, scoring a combined seven goals in the Lakers’ win against Wheeling Jesuit and C.W. Post. Linder is currently second on the team with 23 goals and 31 points. Rand scored her 60th goal of the season last week aiding the Lakers to victories over Grove City and Slippery Rock. Rand had the game-winning goal in the game against Slippery Rock, a game that the Lakers won 5-4.

Men’s lax upsets C.W. Post
By Jim McCann Contributing writer
The Mercyhurst men’s lacrosse team put together one of the most impressive seven-day spans in the history of the program in a week that saw them win two games, accumulate three personal awards and climb a notch higher in the national rankings. On Wednesday the Lakers played host to the Cardinals of Wheeling Jesuit University. Mercyhurst came out of the gates slowly as they faced a 2-2 tie with just under 5 minutes to play in the first quarter. Coach Chris Ryan called a timeout after the Lakers surrendered their early two-goal lead and the team’s response was immediate. Matt Spahr scooped up a ground ball and unleashed an absolute cannon off the ensuing fast break to score the first goal of his collegiate career. David Osier quickly followed suit and the Lakers ended the first quarter with a 4-2 lead. From that point on, the outcome was never in doubt as the Lakers compiled a 7-3 lead at the intermission before exploding for 13 goals in the second half to walk away with a 20-4 victory. B.J. Lindner and Adam Mulherin lead the way with four goals each. Jim Mullaley, Mike Bartlett and Osier also contributed two goals each in the convincing win. The Lakers enjoyed contributions from all four of the goalies in the roster, but Mike Bringley played almost 48 minutes to come away with the win and was credited with seven saves. On Saturday the Lakers looked to improve their NYCAC record when they faced-off against No. 2 C.W. Post. After falling behind 5-2 late in the first half, the Lakers showed off some of the intensity that has made them a mainstay in the national top-five for the last three seasons. Lindner got the ball rolling as he swept from behind the net to tucked a shot into the top corner with less than a second to go in the half. The goal provided a crucial momentum shift that the Lakers would use to go on a 7-1 run that really made the difference in the game. The two teams then traded goals before Mulherin and Simon Stocks combined to give the Lakers a 7-6 lead going into the final quarter. Three minutes into the fourth quarter, long-pole midfielder Joe Thon stripped a Pioneer midfielder and started an unconventional two-on-one with Osier. The two combined for a nifty give-and-go before Thon finished for his first career goal. Moments later, Andrew Schuster put a display of true agility as he took a feed on the crease with one hand, tiptoed the line and buried a shot past the desperately sprawling goalie from Post. After giving up two quick goals, the Lakers capitalized on a manup opportunity as the Stocks brothers provided what the winning goal when Greg fed Simon on the crease to give the Lakers a 10-8 win. The Lakers record now stands at 10-2 and the win allowed them to climb to No. 3 in the nation. Linder was named NYCAC and Mercyhurst Player of the Week. Bringley was named Goalie of the Week by the NYCAC and was joined by Spahr who was named Rookie of the Week. The Lakers look to lock up the program’s first home Final Four appearance on Saturday when they host Molloy at 1:00 p.m. at Tullio Field. Editor’s note: The end portion of last week’s men’s lacrosse story should have been attributed to the editorial staff, not the writer who wrote the article.

Men’s lacrosse receives honors
Men’s lacrosse is reaping the benefits of a third consecutive upset of a better-ranked team, most recently an upset of No. 2 C.W. Post. The Lakers defeated C.W. Post 10-9 and recently moved up to No. 3 in the Division II poll published by the United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association (USILA). Junior Bryon Linder was named the New York Collegiate Athletic Conference (NYCAC) Player of the Week. Senior Mike Bringley was named Goaltender of the Week, and finally freshman Matt Spahr was named the conference’s Freshman of the Week.

Football spring game
In the football team’s annual Green vs. White spring game, the White edged the Green 10-8. Mike Piccinich was called on by the White team to kick a 31-yard field goal with less than three seconds to play in the game. Piccinich converted, giving the White the victory in front of several hundred Laker faithful. Traditionally the spring game has marked the conclusion of the spring season for Laker football, but this year’s schedule is slightly different. Next weekend is the last practice, April 29, a day which is also the Football Spring Alumni Day.

Water polo finishes at 15-8-1, 7-3 in CWPA
By Brady Hunter Contributing writer
This weekend saw the Mercyhurst women’s water polo end their season on a high note. It’s always nice to be able to say you won your last game, and the Lakers have that right this year. Saturday and Sunday saw the team battle at the Collegiate Water Polo Association (CWPA) Western Division Championships in Bloomington, Ind. Mercyhurst entered the tournament as the third seed. The Lakers played twice on Saturday, splitting the results. The first game ended in a 7-1 triumph over Grove City College (ranked No. 6 in the tourney). Already up 3-0 at the half, the girls laid it on thick from that point on. Sophomores Christine Somera and Christie Haibach each had excellent games, finishing with two goals and one assist apiece. Sophomore Carrie Willison extended her lead in the career record books with two assists, and also chipped in a score. Defensively, senior Cassie Rand led the team with three steals. Rand’s goal and a score from sophomore Renee Sander rounded out the scoring. Sophomore goalkeeper Gina Mieras came away with an impressive 17 saves. After this first round of play, Mercyhurst was matched up against No. 17 seed Michigan. This was a disappointing game for the Lakers, ending in a 19-6 loss. Only three Lakers scored: Rand, Willison, and Somera each had two goals. Mieras’ 14 saves were not enough to stop the high-powered Michigan offense, however. Junior Tessa Diloreto did her part with two assists, and Rand and Haibach each contributed two steals in the losing effort. Once again Willison provided helpers, tallying three assists. Sunday saw the conclusion of play come with a game against Slippery Rock University. Having defeated The Rock two out of three times in the regular season, the Lakers were confident entering the game. Their confidence was well placed, it turns out, as the team defeated SRU 5-4. The game was tight throughout, with scores of 1-1, 2-1, and 4-3 (with Mercyhurst on the short end) at the end of the first three periods. With just five minutes left to play, however, Haibach scored her second goal to tie things up. Rand then came through with her second goal of the game, with proved to be the winning score and the 60th goal of her season. That mark earns her the thirdhighest season total in team history. Mieras finished the season as the Lakers’ all-time career leader in saves, and figures to extend that lead over the next two years. Sander once again contributed one goal in the victory. The win on Sunday ironically placed Mercyhurst exactly where they were seeded entering the weekend.

Lacrosse pair honored by ECAC
The Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) named men’s lacrosse senior attack Andrew Schuster its Division II Offensive Player of the Week on April 18. Schuster played a critical role in last week’s win over No. 3 NYIT, scoring the two final goals in the 8-6 win. The ECAC also named women’s lacrosse freshman attack Breanna Haggerty its Division II Offensive Player of the Week. Haggerty tallied four goals in the Lakers win against St. Vincent, and scored seven goals in the teams upset of No. 10 Philadelphia.

Baseball pair honored
Coming off a eight-win week two Mercyhurst baseball players were honored by the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC). Sophomore outfielder David Lough continued his red-hot hitting, racking up 13 hits, five home runs, and 14 runs-batted in on the week. He is now leading the team and in the top-10 in the GLIAC in hitting with a .412 average.

Rowers fare well at Indianapolis Invitational
By Brady Hunter Contributing writer
sity, in terms of small team size and injuries.” Indeed, the Lakers’ roster has been depleted of late, with only the bare minimum number of players traveling this weekend. With the help of Peters setting the cadence, the women were able to increase their stroke rate, an important element in any race. “It was a good weekend to build on for the next race, which will be crucial,” Peters explained. Upcoming for the women is the Dowling Race, a meaningful race for both teams. “This was important for us as far as experience goes, but it wasn’t as important for ranking. Next week is the most important because it decides the rest of the season. It’s the NCAA qualifierif we do well, we get another regatta at the end of the year,” The men also found success, coming home with two secondplace finishes. The men’s varsity four and lightweight eight boats each competed, although some extra work was required of some rowers. In order for Mercyhurst to secure a spot in the invitational, it had to enter a boat in the varsity eight race. So the team simply plugged their lightweight four boat into the competition. “It was a huge learning experience for us. We had to race four times that day. Usually rowing 2000 meters twice is extremely taxing and we had to do it four times.” Ivey contributed his boat’s success at least partly to preparation. “We changed our lineup, as far as the order that the guys sit in the boat. Also, we had two more weeks of training before this race compared to last time.” He was also pleased with his team’s improved performance against the rival St. Joseph’s (who took first place): “We raced St. Joe’s two weeks ago, but this time we stayed with them and were much more competitive.” For the men, this race had a bit more consequence than for the women. The ECAC Nationals will take place in the second weekend of May, after both the men’s and the women’s teams travel to Oakdale, New York, for the Dowling Dual and to Athens, Ohio, for the Mid American Collegiate Rowing Association (MACRA) competition.

Despite having to share a bus with the men’s volleyball team, Junior southpaw Adam Nine was honored as the GLIAC Pitcher both the men and women’s of the Week, notching a pair of conference wins against crew teams found success this Gannon and Northwood. Both of the wins were shutouts, weekend at the Indianapolis surrendering just eight hits between the two games. Nine is Invitational. now 7-1 with a low 1.76 earned run average. The women’s team came away with fourth place at the Grand Six Lakers honored by MIVA Final in the varsity eight competition, after qualifying for the presThe Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (MIVA) tigious final in the initial heat. announced April 18 that six Lakers were honored on its Said sophomore Melanie PeAcademic All-Conference team. To be named to the team a ters, “We were pleased, considerplayer must have a 3.0 grade point average after the fall term. ing we were up against a bunch Making the team for Mercyhurst was senior Brady Hunter and of Division I schools.” freshmen Jeff Hartman, David Hatten, Kyle Miller, Bryan Ritter Competing against super opand Tim Wagner. ponents is nothing new for either Quick hits are compiled by sports editor Ryan Palm. Any- team, and this weekend it was not thing worthy of being a “quick hit” should be emailed to the only challenge. “We’ve had to overcome [email protected].