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Mercyhurst community gathers for annual Mass

By Marcela Delgado
Contributing writer
As a new year begins at Mercyhurst University, our community united in prayer this past Thursday, Sept. 12, celebrating the Mass of the Holy Spirit at Christ the King Chapel. The Mass was presided by the Rev. Dan Horan, O.F.M., and concelebrated by Msgr. David Rubino and the Rev. James Piszker. Later that day, the guest celebrant gave a lecture at Taylor Little Theatre: The Saint and the Pope: The Signicance of Two Men Named Francis for the Church and World. Christ the King Chapel Choir, directed by Daniel Cabanillas along with the DAngelo School of Music concert choir, directed by Rebecca Ryan, delighted the attendees with their interpretations throughout the Mass. During the Preparation of Gifts, the Mercyhurst Liturgical Dance Ensemble, directed by Katherine Boatright, performed a special piece to the choirs interpretation of Old Hundredth. Faculty members interpreted the Pentecost Sequence in Spanish, French, German, Bengali, Chinese and Nepali. As part of the tradition, following the Mass, a picnic was held on the front lawn of the Chapel, where students, faculty and other attendees gathered to share a moment and meet new members joining our university. This Jesuit tradition was implemented at our university in the mid 1990s and since then it has been a tradition at the beginning of every academic year at Mercyhurst, according to Piszker. The Mass of the Holy Spirit brings the Mercyhurst community together in prayer every year where students and faculty receive a blessing for a successful year at Mercyhurst University. For more information, visit the Campus Ministry ofce on the main level of the Student Union.

NEWS

September 18, 2013

Students, faculty, and other members of the Mercyhurst community gathered at the Mass of the Holy Spirit to celebrate and pray for a successful 2013-14 academic year.

Caitlyn Merkel photo

Bookstore suffers security breach

By Juan Mendez
News editor
Last week, the Mercyhurst Bookstore was victim of a security breach involving credit cards used at the store, which resulted in the theft of some customers information and cases of online fraud. Immediately after the breach was discovered, the credit card system was shut down for some time to prevent the hackers from retrieving any more credit card information. According to Bookstore Manager Daniel Cullen, the issue is not exclusive to Mercyhurst. It has been going on all over the country, people maliciously hacking into systems to retrieve credit card information, he said. Staff advised students to check their account statements to make sure no unauthorized transactions were made. Common locations for these include but are not limited to California and countries in Africa. On top of that, management suggests that students take measures themselves, such as replacing the cards that were used at the bookstore during the timeframe this happened, just in case the hackers try to use them again. Parents have been very understanding of the situation, said Cullen. Its something that could happen to anyone. Student response has been mixed, although the distaste for the situation is general. I think its really crazy to think it could happen to you. Credit cards need more security. Getting reimbursed is not enough, preventing these people from the act all together should be the goal, one student said. Another student did not notice that his account had been tampered with until his card was declined at a gas station for lack of funds. Its very upsetting to know someone took the money out of my account, but it was worse to only nd out after my credit card declined, which was worse than nding out someone had stolen my information, he said. The bookstore management guaranteed that no money was lost during the incident and the banks were proceeding to take the appropriate security measures to protect the customers affected by the breach. Although the issue has been resolved on the bookstores behalf, university ofcials encourage students to proceed with precaution and take the safety measures necessary to make sure their money is not compromised. For more information, as well as any questions or concerns, please contact Daniel Cullen at 814-8242229.

Mercyhurst University Police & Safety

Tuesday, Sept. 10 Fraud Bookstore Referred for discipline Tuesday, Sept. 10 Liquor Law Violation Warde Hall Referred for discipline

Police Log

Tuesday, Sept. 10 Controlled Substance Violation Warde Hall Referred for discipline Friday, Sept. 13 Theft RICOH Mailroom Referred for discipline

Please send all nominations with a brief summary of why they deserve the award to editormerciad@mercyhurst.edu
MSG members and the Merciad staff are exempt from being nominated.

Know anyone that deserves to be Laker of the Month?

Students can follow simple steps to access their e-mail accounts

By Samantha Beckas
Contributing writer
Many students around the Mercyhurst campus have been experiencing trouble with their new Ofce 365 email. Most of them get the same error message but there are also a few that are telling them something different. Hannah Cox, director of the Information Technology (I.T.) Help Desk located in Hammermill Librarys main oor, explains the reason why there have been problems, ways to x it and some helpful hints. The reason for the software switch from Windows Live to Ofce 365 was not a decision made by the staff of Mercyhurst. Microsoft issued the update and made it mandatory for all universities using their program for email to switch. The switch was originally scheduled to happen in June but it was pushed back so Microsoft could x some bugs. Clearly, there are still some issues and Microsoft, as well as the I.T. team, is working to make this switch as easy as possible. According to Cox, the most common problem to occur with the email is a yellow-boxed error message saying something along the lines of This account cannot be used to access outlook.com. This problem can be xed by clearing your cookies and cache in your history. For those who are not technologically savvy, there is an instructional video posted on the Mercyhurst Portal explaining how to x the problem step by step for both Macs and PCs. Another common problem is that students are not able to log in to their email; even when they claim they have the correct password. First things rst, students should understand that due to the software switch, passwords to their Portal, Blackboard, and Webadvisor do not sync to their email. Email passwords do not expire, meaning they do not have to be changed every 180 days, and can only be changed by contacting the Help Desk and asking them to reset it. The Help Desk is hoping to eventually gain the ability for students to change their own passwords. Upon contacting the Help Desk to reset email passwords, they will give the student a temporary password that will go into the Old Password eld, and then the student will enter his or her desired password into the New Password eld and then should be able to successfully log in to their email. Sky Drive is a program that has also been affected by the change. Students, as well as faculty, should understand that the Help Desk does not support Sky Drive anymore. Sky Drive is a web app that students can access by going to skydrive. live.com and register using their Mercyhurst email. Students should also understand that Sky Drive is a personal account whereas email is institutionally managed. When problems with Sky Drive occur, students should contact Microsoft. Other common questions do come in to the Help Desk such as how to set up the Mercyhurst email on smart phones, Cox said. Instructions for this, other problems, and some tutorials can be found on the Portal under Services > Information Technology > Help Desk > New Student Tech Information. Some things that students should keep in mind are that even though the switch has been confusing and difcult, it allows privacy to web apps such as Sky Drive and students are able to keep their Mercyhurst email addresses forever. It is also helpful to realize that when students are asked for their Mercyhurst username, it is the same as their email address but without the @lakers.mercyhurst.edu and is made up of their rst initial, the rst ve letters of their last name, and the last two digits of their student ID number. Cox also recommends that students keep track of and store their passwords to all accounts in a safe place but should not hesitate to come to the Help Desk with any technical problems. The Help Desk also encourages all students and faculty to keep updated by reading all emails they receive and following them on their new social media accounts, both on Twitter and Facebook, under the name of Mercyhurst University I.T. Help Desk. For more information, as well as any other technical inquiries, please contact the Mercyhurst I.T. Help Desk at helpdesk@mercyhurst.edu, visit them at the Hammermill Library, or call 814824-3200.

I.T. Department provides tech solutions

September 18, 2013

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LAKER MOMENT MSG plans for new year

By Emani Burton
Contributing writer
Though the academic year is just underway, Mercyhurst Student Government (MSG) is hard at work planning a fun and productive 2013-2014 year. We are passionate about helping students, and pumping up school spirit, said Student Government President Amber Penna. We want students to get involved. As with last years introduction of a spirit committee and other incentives, MSG hopes to increase sporting event attendance and provide students with a great year. MSG aims at creating an active campus and lively student body. Students are encouraged to submit their ideas and concerns in the student suggestion box in the Mercyhurst Student Government ofces in the lower level of the Student Union. Penna expects this year to be one full of fun, including events like the Masquerade Ball, taking place Friday, Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. in Herrmann Student Union. Tickets will be sold for $5 on Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Student Union. To keep students in the know about campus events, MSG has distributed a fridge magnet with a calen-

NEWS

September 18, 2013

dar of events to freshman students. Upperclassmen received cup holders in the Hurst colors that inspire Laker Pride. MSG has so far used their budget to buy t-shirts and plan to help improve upperclassman housing. Along with the Student Activities Council (SAC), MSG plans on having a Wings and Football Night on the last Monday of every month. They also hope to introduce a new food vendor to Mercyhurst students soon. They are especially excited about a surprise speaker in the spring. The Student Government hopes to increase sporting event attendance and provide students with a great 2013-2014 academic year.

Freshman enrollment drops

By Sydne Nielson
Contributing writer
Mirroring a nation-wide trend, Mercyhurst University has experienced a drop in its traditional freshman enrollment for the incoming class of 2017. In 2012, the United States Census Bureau reported college enrollment in the United States had dropped by nearly half a million students, affecting colleges and universities from coast to coast, including Mercyhurst. Two years ago, the Hurst reported record-setting, school-wide enrollment. In contrast, the freshman class of 2016 entered with a total of 680 traditional-aged freshmen, followed by the class of 2017 with 677 incoming freshmen. When asked about the drop in enrollment this year, Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management Chris Coons said there were several external factors inuencing the decline. First and foremost, Coons said, demographics probably had the greatest impact as there is a signicant decline in high school graduates in our primary markets. He noted that that despite the signicant need- and merit-based assistance offered, families are still sensitive to the price of a higher education. Some students are also responding to the nancial pressures by taking a roundabout route to their degree, Coons said. Many students, specically undeclared students, are choosing to enroll at community colleges for two years to earn general education requirements in preparation to transfer to a four-year institution, he said. In order to prevent another decrease in enrollment like we saw this year, Coons said the administration, faculty and staff will be collaborating on a wide variety of strategies this year to draw more interest from areas of geographic growth, as well as offer more opportunities for prospective students to visit campus. Coons said that the administration will be making strong efforts to ensure that 2014 is the best enrollment year possible. We need to do an even better job at promoting the quality and value of a Mercyhurst University education, said Coons, no matter a students major.

Mike Murphy photo

With fall term already running, it is time for students to make the most out of this upcoming academic year.

Make this year count

By Taylor Rollins, Contributing writer

As chaotic class schedules and individual obligations begin to devour most of our valued free time, we begin to ask ourselves if summer will decide to come around again. Navigating the new semester terms and relearning how to handle course loads accordingly will be an adventure for most of us one that will undoubtedly make us want to throw our expensive course required books out of the window. As I write this, it is only week two, and students are already feeling the dreaded crunch. First and foremost, we are students and must do what is required of us in order to succeed regardless of what kind of calendar we are on. Many of us were under the impression that longer semesters would lessen stress brought on by an intense workload. Are professors attempting to increase course loads to compensate for decreased class time instead of spreading it out over time? Are both professors and students just so familiar with trimesters that each feels the need to get as much done as humanly possible, despite a prolonged term? I think the real question here is will we all be incredibly burned out by the time nals arrive this year or will we be pleasantly surprised? We will all be ne in the end, we always are. Students and staff will eventually become comfortable with our still new university status and changes. We are all Lakers after all, and that is basically synonymous with the word tough. We would not have chosen The Hurst if we could not brave Eries crazy weather.

Ogham stone commemorates bond

By Will Bickelmann
Contributing writer
By now, most of Mercyhurst has seen the waist-high pillar shaped stone between Egan and Old Main. The stripes carved down each side and across the top of the foot-high stone were as much of a mystery as the presence of the stone itself. The stone was a gift from the Mercyhurst sister campus in Dungarvan, Ireland and is meant to signify our relationship to the Ireland campus as well as the Universitys Irish roots. How the stone actually ended up at Mercyhurst campus was allegedly the result of a joke made by Director of Asian Studies Program and World Languages and Cultures Keiko Miller. She discussed the matter of a monument to signify the connection between the two campus of Mercyhurst on the phone with Dungarvan Visit Coordinator Tom Keith. Miller suggested an Ogham Stone realizing the absurdity of procuring an ancient stone that civilizations used to preserve their alphabets. Whether the stone is an actual Ogham stone or just a stone that coincidentally has the same shape as one is unknown as the alphabet wouldve been weathered away. The carvings currently on the stone were made recently in ancient Gaelic which spells out Dungarbhan Sna Deise (Dungarvan in the traditional district of Na Deise). After these alterations were made to the stone, pebbles which now surround the base of the stone and a plaque which depicts where both came from were all put into suitcases of American students and brought back to Mercyhurst campus.

New step for Walker School of Business

By Ryan Kushner
Contributing writer
As of August, The Walker School of Business and Communication has been under the management of Rajeev Parikh, Ph. D. Born in India and raised in Buffalo, N.Y., Parikh has a vision of expanding his new departments and increasing reputations for excellence. Parikh received his Master of Science degree in Chemical Engineering and his Ph.D. in Accounting and Finance at the State University of New York. He also holds the titles of C.M.A. (Certied Management Accountant) and C.F.M. (Certied Management Accountant). As dean, Parikhs job will be to oversee departments such as Communication, Fashion Merchandizing, Hospitality Management, and, of course, Business. When asked to name the most challenging aspects of his job so far, Parikh said increasing enrollment and continuing to build the identity of the school. But regarding these challenges, Parikh says that he is condent that we can overcome them. Regarding what he likes most about Mercyhurst University and his new position as dean so far, Parikh did not hesitate when he answered the value-based education that Mercyhurst upholds, noting that he has worked in a Catholic educational environment before (St. Bonaventure University) and has found that such an education sets these Catholic schools apart from others. He also credits the dedication of [his] colleagues, who care so much about their students as a factor that drew him to Mercyhurst University. Parikh went on to speak about one of his most exciting goals as the new dean, which is providing the business department with its own separate building in the future. He refers to it as the as departments signature building. It is a dream of ours, Parikh said. While he is focused about improving and growing his department in the future, the new dean is adamant that of course, the students come rst. Without the students, we are nothing, Parikh said. If you would like to know more about Rajeev Parikh, or about the Walker School of Business and Communication in general, you can contact him at rparikh@mercyhurst. edu.

September 18, 2013

FEATURES

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Salina Bowe photo

Dr. Rajeev Parikh is the newly appointed Dean of the Walker School of Business and Communication.

This fall season features new fashions

By Juan Mendez
News editor
Although we got a sneak peek of the Fall/ Winter collections for 2013 back in the spring, its time to put them to practice, as the major warehouses across the world have presented very wearable collections. One of the major trends for this season is winter white, opposing the traditional view of white being a spring/summer. In a more is more statement, overowing pieces with clean cuts in tones of white are making their way into the fall mainstream. Another big bet by designers like Victoria Beckham is the return of basic patterns; leopard, plaid and pinstripes are ticket items for the fall, but the hottest pattern is houndstooth, used on collections by Rag & Bone and Thakoon. Whether on a scarf or on more crucial pieces like pants and shoes, patterned items can take your outt to the next level. Color-wise, Marc Jacobs delivered one of the biggest surprises of the season: in another bold twist, shades of green are expected to boom for the fall. Stay away from the orange tones everyone is used to, as darker shades of green are a preferred item for the upcoming seasons. A personal favorite is the removal of cropped, bold pants. Its time to take a rest from the tighter, more nessed silhouettes that spring/summer offered for this year and trade them for slouchier cuts, with trousers in basic tones providing a sleek accessory that sits right at the hips and is more tted toward the ankles. For the gentlemen, the bet is still on colored pants, only traded for warmer hues to adjust to the change in seasons; dont ditch all your denim yet, however, as its easily pairable with some casual pants and a pair of driving shoes for an outt that is sure to smash. Ladies, put the less is more philosophy to work: refrain from stacking your jewelry and opt for a simpler look, focusing on one of the key pieces; a white blouse with colored cuff pants and knee-high boots is already a scenestealer. Finish the look with a small handbag and a patterned scarf to get the spotlight everywhere you go.

New fashions and outts will be brought forth this fall season.

DKNY Lookbook photos

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FEATURES

September 18, 2013 September 3, 2008

Mercyhurst celebrates Year of Happiness

By Mary Barnes
Contributing writer
Each academic year, the Mercyhurst community invites both its faculty members and students to take on a different outlook on life. President Tom Gamble, Ph. D., along with other faculty, chose this theme for the 2013-2014 academic year as both a way to welcome the new academic calendar and to ensure students are keeping their priorities in check as they begin the new year. The incoming freshman class read the book The Happiness Project, written by Gretchen Rubin, prior to move-in day as a way to gain the right mind set as they began their transition into college life. As far as upperclassmen go, the happiness project has spread from the classroom and into living room. A committee composed of professors and faculty members decided to paint a single wall in the living room of all upperclassmen housing. Directly after walking into an upperclassmen apartment, you may notice a green, periwinkle, orange or yellow wall. The various colors were chosen because studies have shown that they improve mood and increase overall happiness, which is essential to this years theme. In order to instill happiness across campus, Mercyhurst will be welcoming multiple speakers on campus, including author Rubin, to enrich students and provide a healthier experience outside of the classroom. Additionally, the campus will be seeing more activities such as essay contests, social media giveaways, and art expositions, all as reminders to keep happiness at the top of students priority lists.

Fun Places To Go:

Philosophy department chair Jim Snyder, Ph. D. was heavily involved in choosing the happiness theme. He and the rest of the committee chose the theme not only to instill happiness on the surface, but also to encourage students to look deeper into the meaning of happiness and how it applies to his or her own path through Mercyhurst University. As the school year begins to unfold and campus settles into a routine, keeping this years theme in mind is crucial. As always, Mercyhurst is providing a multitude of opportunities for its students to be happy whether it be through arts and music, enticing courses, SAC and MSG events and now through the happiness initiative and all should be taking full advantage of it.

Chippers Tavern

2013 Homecoming Weekend to feature many fun activities

By Brinsley Maughan-Evanson
Contributing writer
Homecoming weekend is a time to bask in the beauty of Mercyhursts campus and enjoy some fun activities with friends and family. This year, Homecoming Weekend begins with the Alumni Golf Outing benetting the James R. McKeever Scholarship fund. This is located at the Lake View country club starting at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 4. Later in the evening there will be a homecoming/family bingo from 5-7 p.m. at the recreation center. Fridays events will conclude with the Mens Lacrosse Alumni Game at Tullio Field at 9 p.m. Alumni can get a running start to Saturdays events by participating in the 3rd annual Alumni 5k beginning at 9 a.m. For students and family, the Womens Field Hockey team will be playing at 9:30 p.m. on Tullio Field. Families are encouraged to attend the family lunch north of Tullio Field at 11 a.m. while alumni are welcomed to tailgate starting at 11:30 a.m. This is in preparation for the football team taking on Cheyney University at 1 p.m. Womens Hockey will also

Zach Dorsch photo

Chippers chicken wings are awesome and should be given a try.

By Zach Dorsch
Managing editor
Mercyhurst Alumni Ofce photo

Homecoming is always a fun event for students and alumni alike, like in this photo that was taken during Homecoming 2012.
host Ohio State University at 7 p.m. at the Ice Center. Tours will be available from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. for those who would like a personalized guide around campus. Sunday will close Homecoming weekend with Protestant service at the Student Union at 9:15 a.m. and Catholic Mass in Christ the King Chapel at 10 a.m. After the services, everyone is welcome to Sunday brunch at Egan dining hall from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.. Free University t-shirts will be given to the rst 200 guests who register for Homecoming Weekend. This includes both families and alumni. The t-shirts will be available for pick-up during the weekends events. A special thanks to Mercyhurst Student Government and Student Activities Counsel for organizing Homecoming Weekend events.

Just up the street from Mercyhurst on Pine Avenue is a little two-room tavern called Chippers that serves up some of the best wings in Erie. This family-owned hole in the wall offers 61 avors of wings. These taste temptations range from the classics like BBQ and Hot to something wild like Go Nuts or Cinnamon Stix. Their special offers not only include their wings, but also allow you to have a side and a drink too. One special includes 24 wings, veggies, and a small pitcher for only $16. All of Chippers wing sauces are homemade on site and all 61 wing avors are completely described on

the menu. Another unique feature of the tavern is its veggie boat. This scrumptious appetite enhancer also includes Chippers homemade dill dipping sauce. While you wait for your wings you can munch on the veggies and enjoy this both creamy, avorful sauce. One thing to be mindful of is that the bar is rather small. At the max it may accommodate about 10 people. It also has a limited selection of drinks that include beer and soft drink choices. If your passion is wings, then all else aside, Chippers may just be the wing connoisseurs dream come true.

Edge to Edge lls art gallery

By Kayleigh Ferguson
Staff writer
Mercyhurst Universitys Cummings Art Gallery is well-known for displaying the talent of not only its students and faculty, but of emerging and established artists as well. Currently featured is artist Judith Brandon. A native of Indianapolis, Brandon studied at the Cleveland Institute under enamellist William Harper. Brandons mixed media paintings, often depicting storms and natural disasters or other similar phenomena, and explore landscapes through the profound use of color and texture. Theyre not just pieces that can be glanced at; the ner, smaller details mixed into the organized chaos are the bone structure that adds size and demands closer attention from its audience. There is signicant detail in the overall appearance of clutter. These smaller accents may be the miniscule skyline of a city in the background, as in Light Pillars in Cyan, or of decay, portrayed by destroyed homes and power cables amidst the brilliant color value of Twin Bolts. In a piece that references destruction through war, one can see the faded words, Its just the missionary Its interesting, Brandon said, when asked about her subject of natural disasters. They have a familiar emotional precedent to them. The world has been a stormy place, and these paintings put you right in the middle of it all with the hope to sail out. In some pieces, the ne details are but large, penciled circles that appear as air bubbles overlapping the central focus of the image. Brandon said they remind her of a planet. As the canvas may start out completely white, Im always surprised by whats there, said Brandon. One of the works, titled Ascension, creates a visceral reaction not unlike physical feelings experienced in real-life, gravity deant situations. The black and white charcoal piece reminds one perhaps of missing a step on a ight of stairs; there is a sense of gravity to the work that is not typically seen. Brandon mentioned that she works many of her paintings are on upside down. Another charcoal and ink piece, Atlantis Is Sinking, seems to have pastel colors running and dripping in contrasting directions. Water is something thats very malleable, especially in terms of emotion, said Brandon. It creates

September 18, 2013

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

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Wednesday, September 18th 4 p.m. Mens Soccer

vs. Ohio Dominican University

Salina Bowe photo

Viewers from campus and the community stopped in to the Cummings Art Gallery to view the artwork of Judith Brandon titled Edge to Edge. The gallery will be open through Sept. 28.
a sense of control. There is a deeper emotional contrast inherent in this sort of art, going beyond colors and values. Many of them show us trauma and natural decay, but the disaster is created by the artist in an approach that is not what a rst impression would assume. In her works, Brandon successfully creates tragedy out of bright and bubbly or calm and tranquil colors, a sort of catharsis to the sense of loss associated with imminent destruction. When asked about the inspiration for this concept, Brandon said, Theres a lot of Radiohead in here. The way he (lead vocalist Thom Yorke) sings so beautifully about terribly sad things Judith Brandons works will continue to be on display in the Cummings Art Gallery until Saturday, Sept. 28. For more information regarding this exhibit or the Cummings Art Gallery, call 814-824-2092.

Thursday, September 19th 11 a.m. Farmers Market Student Union Sunday, September 22nd 2 p.m. Langer Film Series: The Attack Taylor Little Theatre Monday, September 23rd Caf Diem Opening Day Friday, September 27th

miac.mercyhurst.edu photo

7 - 10 p.m. Gallery Night Erie Art Museum

Online

Full list of events can be found on the MIAC website

View upcoming performances at: miac.mercyhurst.edu

www.merciad.mercyhurst.edu/ arts_entertainment

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Choir sings for Polish festival

By Mary Barnes
Staff writer
a compilation of African-American works inspired by Erie native Harry Burleigh, a composer of that genre. Ryan feels the experience was an opportunity that each member, including herself, found benecial. The experience was extraordinary- culturally, musically, and emotionally- for everyone, Ryan said. The choir was composed of current students, alumni, friends and family, each of which contributed differently to the group. Ryan and the choir have traveled to Honduras, Italy, Ireland and Poland, among other international stops. They are currently looking into southern Germany or Ireland for next years escapade. In the meantime, however, the choir will be performing locally. With Ryan at the lead, these Mercyhurst students perform at many concerts around campus and the Erie community. They are featured often in the Walker Recital Hall, the chapel and in the Performing Arts Center during the Christmas season for local enjoyment.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

September 18, 2013 September 3, 2008

A recent trip to the Lublin Partner Cities Festival in Poland had Mercyhurst Universitys current and past choirs singing. While the rest of campus was relaxing for the summer, choir director Rebecca Ryan and 22 members set off on a Polish adventure. Ryan received a formal invitation to be honored as the Polish governments guests for the festival. The festival was held from May 23-25 and featured choirs from Siberia, Romania, Russia and Lublin, Poland. It was a beautiful cathedral and a beautiful experience overall, said Ryan. While attending the festival, the ensemble performed a solo concert in the cathedral as well as multiple appearances around the city of Lublin. Although the group performed classical works throughout its stay, Kathleen Reveille also performed a solo concert. Accompanied by Ryan, she performed

Contributed photo

Choir Director Rebecca Ryan and 22 members of the choir performed in the Lublin Partner Cities Festival held in Poland over the summer.

Queens re-establish reign with new album

By Zach Dorsch
Managing Editor
In the past six years Queen of the Stone Ages front man Josh Homme has recorded an album with legends John Paul Jones and Dave Grohl. He has produced several different bands records on his new label and he has also died for a few minutes. After all this the last thing we would expect was another Queens album, but that is exactly what we got. .Like Clockwork, is the bands sixth studio album and rst to be released under Hommes private label Matador. Given the fact that this is on Hommes own label, I expected this album to be rougher and a little more in your face than their past works. Instead, the band created one of the most polished albums that has a Songs for the Deaf-era sound to it. You can tell that the experiences of the past six years have inuenced the lyrics of this album. The Vampyre of Time and Memory was the rst song Josh wrote after his near-death surgery. This song is set over a soft piano, I want God to come/ And

take me home/ Coz Im all alone in this crowd, Homme sings in a whisper tone. The album is not all slow and somber though. The very next song, If I Had a Tail, brings the album up to speed again with a guitar rift that most likely was inspired by the Rolling Stones Gimme Shelter. Kalopsia starts out slowly and almost feels like an interlude as it bridges the albums single My God is the Sun and Fairweather Friends. It begins with vocals off in the distance and soft guitar noodling. Then about a minute in, the song bears its teeth with heavily distorted guitars and Josh singing, Oh why you so sad/ What have they done/ Forget those mindless baboons/ Theyre off playing God. Listening to this album made me fall back in love with this band. This is by far one of the best hard rock albums to come out this year. With its set of near awless songs and the emotion behind each one, there is no doubt this album will please old fans and new listeners too.

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OPINION

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The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the views of Mercyhurst University, the staff of The Merciad or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are always welcomed and can be emailed to opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

Miss America sparks racist comments

By Juan M. Mendez
News editor
On Sundays Miss America pageant, the competition was erce as always; the women were beautiful, the talent was ever so present, and all fty competitors hoped they would get to wear the precious crown and sash that came with winning the title. At the end, Miss New York, contestant Nina Davuluri took the well-deserved victory home. If you want any further proof of this, look up the Bollywood-inspired dance routine she performed for the talent section of the pageant on YouTube. Davuluri, whos of Indian descent, yet born in the United States, embraced her cultural roots and stole the show from any other competitor that had graced the stage. Although, some of the audience members that watched the televised broadcast of the show from the comfort of their homes were not pleased. Social networks such as Twitter were bombarded with hate towards Davuluri, going from calling her a terrorist to making racist jokes about her employment. Others related to the indignation of having an Indian-American win a pageant happening only days after the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks how dare they? Unless my history books serve me wrong, Indians, let alone people of Indian descent born and raised in the United States, did most certainly not orchestrate said terrorist attacks. The ignorance of the masses is getting too far. The double standard of discriminating and attacking Nina for winning Miss America for not being a true American while priding themselves on being one-sixteenth Irish needs to stop. In that short time Ive been in the country, I have learned this basic concept: according to the Constitution, anyone born in the U.S. is an American. It looks like the people making all of these hateful comments forgot about this simple lesson when taking it out on Davuluri. Not only is it disgusting to read some of these comments, but it is also shameful. Is this how were supposed to progress as a country? Is this what the future of America is like? Terrible slippery slopes and hatred toward any American citizen whose complexion is not pearly white? It is sad that once its on the Internet, it is with us forever, because the constant reminder of having read these ignorant comments is enough to make anyone want to turn a computer off forever.

Have an opinion? Wanna get paid?

Write for The Merciad

Email editormerciad@mercyhurst.edu

Tragedy strikes America again

By Alejandra Zeron
Opinion editor
The occurrence of mass shootings has clearly become woven into the fabric of our society. With yet another shooting taking place earlier this week, it seems we have become accustomed and potentially numb to the violence guns generate. How many victims this time? Thirteen people were killed and at least eight others were injured after a gunman opened re at Washington Navy Yard on Monday morning. The shooter has been identied as Aaron Alexis, a 34-year old contractor from Fort Worth, Texas. Alexis, a civilian contractor and military veteran, was killed during a gun battle with the police who responded to the attack. Valerie Parlave, assistant director in charge of the FBIs Washington eld ofce, said the shooter had legitimate access to the Navy Yard. Washington Metropolitan Police Chief Cathy Lanier said there is currently no known motive for the shootings. Meanwhile, President Obama expressed his sympathy for the victims and their families of what he described as yet another mass

... it seems we have become accustomed to the violence guns generate...

Alejandra Zeron

shooting. He urged authorities to work together to determine the nature of the rampage. This shooting is the second time a military installation has been targeted during Obamas presidency. Weve been in this same situation so many times before. Each time thinking this will be the tragedy that will nally bring forth action and change. Yet it didnt happen after any of the spate of shootings that have taken place in recent years- in Virginia, in Colorado and in Connecticut. According to a study released this year by Mayors Against Illegal Guns, we have averaged one mass shooting

a month in this country since 2009. That comes down to 43 shootings in which more than four people were killed in the same incident in the past four years. Though these calamities certainly initiated and reinforced a national call for stricter gun policies, that debate soon faded from the headlines and took a backseat in the nations agenda. Many would like to argue that the lack of mental- health institutions, the proliferation of violent games and movies, or even the post-traumatic disorder that war and other traumas can generate, are all plausible explanations for these recurrent mass shootings. Nevertheless, the issue always comes back to this common factor: guns are readily available to any individual who wants to buy one. With a culture where assault weapons have generated so much physical and emotional misfortune, can we really afford the luxury of deliberately ignoring the issue any further? One thing is clear, if guns werent easily accessible these expressions of hatred and anger would end in far less casualties and bloodshed. The necessary measures need to be taken to avoid calamities of this kind from repeating themselves.

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Editors Mathew Anderson Zach Dorsch Juan Mendez Daniel Tarr Samantha Bante Garrett Erwin Leann Krysiak Nicole Lawrence Sami Rapp Ethan Johns Will DeFeo Bill Welch @mercyhurst.edu Positions editormerciad Editor-in-Chief managingmerciad Managing Editor newsmerciad News Editor featuremerciad Features Editor sportsmerciad Sports Editor entertainmentmerciad A&E Editor copymerciad Copy Editor photomerciad Graphics photomerciad Photo Editor ejohns89 Web Editor admerciad Ad Manager wwelch Adviser

The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst University. It is published throughout the school year, with the exception of finals weeks. Our office is in Hirt, Room 120B. Our telephone number is (814) 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 Mondays by noon and may not be more than 300 words. Submit letters to box PH 485 or via email at opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

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The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the views of Mercyhurst University, the staff of The Merciad or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are always welcomed and can be emailed to opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

OPINION

September 18, 2013

Music department a hazard

By Mathew Anderson
Editor-in-Chief
Mercyhurst has been making plenty of improvements to campus throughout the past few years, with the addition of Warde Hall for the freshmen and The Center of Academic Engagement, along with the countless renovations to make it quite obvious that we are, indeed, at Mercyhurst. There is one area, however, that has been neglected for years. The music department has many points that are in grave need of improvement. Some of which are merely inconvenient, but some are downright dangerous. The rst issue that needs sorted out is the overall up-keep of the space. With its dim lighting and mold-covered walls, it feels as if youre walking to a dungeon rather than class even more so than usual. The effect is magnied when you take into consideration that all but one classroom in the music department resides below ground. This means that there isnt a single window in each classroom, other than a row of little windows next to each door looking into the hallway. Looking past the difculties, students have been put in compromising situations because of the need of moving large instruments. Due to ensemble rehearsals and performances unavoidably being in different spaces, there are circumstances where students have to move timpani up and down the stairs of the department. This can easily be xed using one word Elevator. In shortthe music facilities in general are a sight to make sore eyes. If Mercyhurst wants any hope of actually retaining students, maybe they should focus on high-trafc areas on campus rather than branding our gates.

Laker TV revamps itself by adding more student content and advertising localnon-prot events. A few student shows are in the works like Mr. Scarys Scary Cinema and Fish Bowl. A far cry from the normal ho-hum of past Masses of the Holy Spirit, this years was able to hold everyones attention. This was because of the sermon from Rev. Dan Horan O.F.M. public speaking abilities.

The music facilities are in great need of renovation. The department feels more like a prison than an academic setting.

Photo: Sami Rapp

No student should fail

By Jennifer Cotto-Ecklund
Contributing writer
Should students be allowed to fail? There are many different ways of looking at this question, one being some students fail because they did not do their work, or even try to get a good grade. I believe those kids deserve the grade they receive. Obviously if you are not going to try why should the teacher put in an effort to help you or give you a good grade. In my opinion, school is meant for you to learn from teachers and experiences. If you learn from a class, but still end up failing what did that accomplish? I think teachers should have to push students and make sure they do not fail, because if a student fails doesnt that look bad on the teacher? Failing a student after they worked hard does not make sense, if they still did not get the material, doesnt that look bad for both the student and teacher?

This academic year, the school decided to put new Laker cards for students ordering in the Sequioa Grill. However, the cards do not have the Specialties option typed in.

Here you can see mineral residue running down the wall of the stairway.

Photo: Sami Rapp

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The CAEs re alarm system malfunctioned at least three times last week. Each time, ear-shattering alarms not only sent people out of the building but left their ears ringing for hours to come.

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Mercyhurst picks new softball coach

By Samantha Bante
Sports Editor
Losing ve seniors, four of whom were starters, and gaining a new coach could be a struggle for almost any team. The womens softball team is ready to take on the challenge in this years 2013-2014 season. With seven incoming players, the Lakers are looking forward to their season with the guidance of Leanne Baker, who was announced as the head softball coach on Aug. 6 by Mercyhurst University Director of Athletics Joe Kimball. After serving as rst baseman for Edinboros softball team for four years, Baker graduated from Edinboro University in 2007. She then continued her education at Edinboros graduate school, working as an assistant on the softball coaching staff. Baker served as the head coach for Southern Vermont College for the past three years. I really like the position so far. It was overwhelming at rst, but everyone has been very helpful, and the team of course helped me a lot as well, Baker said.

September 18, 2013

SPORTS

Page 11

I think I have a lot of mental training to offer the team.

Leanne Baker.

During her time at Southern Vermont College, she led the Mountaineers to a school-record nine wins in 2013. In 2012, her softball team had three All-New England Collegiate Conference (NECC) players, setting another program high. Bakers team was able to reach the NECC Team Sportsmanship Award in all three years of her coaching. When asked about what she will be able to add to the team, Baker said, I think I have a lot of mental training to offer the team. My physicality for the team is there, but I think I will be able

to provide a great addition of mental strength as well. Baker is a two-time graduate of Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) with Edinboro University. She also was an All-PSAC West Second Team choice in 2006 for her team as well. Im looking forward to being back to Erie again, being back in the PSAC and Im very excited for the talent that we have on our team too, Baker said. With Dana Web as the assistant coach and Christy Janoske as a second year graduate assistant coach, the Lakers are looking forward to an exceptional season. I think with Christys knowledge and what Dana and I will bring to the table, we want to work to get to the PSAC Championship game and that is our ultimate goal of the year, Baker said. The Lakers are looking forward to their season that begins this spring 2014.

Jeff Lowy photo

Leanne Baker was announced as the head softball coach on Aug. 6, 2013.

Mens soccer capture overtime victory

By Katherine Donohue
Contributing Writer
The mens soccer team recently powered through three competitive opponents after its tough opening loss to Notre Dame College. The team saw themselves tied at one apiece heading into OT against Charleston. Power midelder Fernando Martinez was able to quickly blast a shot past the Golden Eagles goaltender less than a minute into the overtime. After coming off a loss the game before, the Lakers knew they had to pull off this win to change things around. The boys have been practicing hard and pushing themselves physically and mentally for this year, said junior forward Karl Viehbeck. Our rst game loss against Notre Dame made us realize there isnt going to be an easy game on our schedule, We prepared well for the next match against Charleston, xing the pieces missing or incomplete from the previous game and just going out there and giving it our all. Viehbeck said. That overtime win for the Lakers was the start of a powerful momentum push, leading them to two straight following wins. Viehbeck believes the team had the right mindset against West Chester and ESU, with our team we look at each game as it comes, and grow from each game that passes. Its a new day, a new opponent, and anything can happenbut something that a lot of other teams dont have is the ability to put the game before behind them and focus on whats in front and to come. When asked about how the players t in with one another Viehbeck said, With our team we have a strong sense of chemistry, experience, maturity, skill, physicality, and mental toughness. Each and every one of us push each other during practicemixed with the camaraderie off the eld that makes us stronger each and every day, which shows on the eld and fortunately has been ending in good results, Veihbeck said. The team is hoping to continue the recent success and keep the season going strong. I believe with the group of boys we have this year we can match up to any team mentally and physically.

Laker sports photo

The mens soccer team has powered through three competitive opponents after its tough opening loss to Notre Dame College.

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Football bounces back with big win

By Brinsley Maughan-Evanson
Contributing Writer
After a tough loss to open the football season against Bentley the rst week of the season, it is difcult for a team to come back with condence to its home opener. Even so, the football team did just that and more with a crushing 49-7 victory over Millersville Sept. 14. Its always nice to already have a game under our belt going into our home opener, Head coach Marty Schaetzle said. When talking about the differences between the Bentley and Millersville games, our guys have been stepping up and playing better as a team. With both teams coming in with an 0-1 record, it was anybodys game. Mercyhursts running back Brandon Brown-Dukes set the bar high with a 66-yard touchdown run on the rst play against Millersville and continued doing so with 142 yards and two more touchdowns.

Sports

September 18, 2013

Jeff Lowy photo

Vladmir Rock catches a pass during the game against Millersville this past Saturday, Sept. 14.

Junior Colin Kimball set a school record for most interception return yards in a single game with 86 yards. Kimball was named PSAC defensive player of the week because of his performance during the Millersville game. Kimball, the starting free safety for the Lakers, had two interceptions, including a 45-yard touchdown return in the third quarter, helping to lead the Lakers to victory. Kimball also had ve tackles in the victory, four of which were solo stops. Schaetzle is excited about the upcoming season but says he wants to take it one week at a time. Im excited about the October game at Veterans Stadium against Gannon because it is fundraising for such a good cause, said Schaetzle. One dollar from every ticket sold for the Oct. 17 game will be donated to the ALS Association. The Lakers are looking to keep up the momentum as they travel to Clarion this upcoming weekend on Saturday Sept. 21 to take on the Golden Eagles.

Womens cross country runs for PSAC

By Samantha Bante
Sports Editor
The Lakers are off to a successful start. Finishing in top rankings at the rst two invitationals, and after being selected as 16th from the PSCA preseason poll. Finishing fourth at their rst opening match at the Fredonia State Invitational and third at the Mack Cooper Invitational, hosted by Slippery Rock University at Coopers Lake Campground the Lakers have picked up momentum and are pushing forward. At their rst invitational on Sept. 7, junior Emily Francis placed 16th at the 5k event. Francis has led the team, reaching top scores in every race since she

Laker sports photo

Junior Emily Francis front center, has led Mercyhurst in every race she has competed in over her rst two seasons.

joined the team in 2011. With a time of just over 20 minutes (20:12:03), Francis continues to prove that she is a great asset to the team. She also led the team and placed 12th at the Mack Cooper Invitational on Sept.13. Other players that lead the team were juniors Sara Chuzie and Becca Reichbaum who came in second and third respectively on the team at the Fredonia Invitational. Senior Rebecca Wheeling was second among Mercyhurst runners and nished 20th and junior Sara Chuzie nished in 27th place at the Mack Cooper Invitational. The Lakers will compete again Friday, Sept. 20, when they travel to the University of Notre Dame for the National Catholic Invitational.

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