Students contribute to good, bad & ugly >>PAGE 12

SEPT. 5, 2007 Vol. 81 No. 2

‘Beer me’

AlcoholEdu could help curb the binge before it starts >> page 2

FEATURES

Swipe it Clean up What’s Inside

Police log..........2

Mercyhurst OneCard adds

that mess! I HEART Erie......5
The Buzz...........9
Tips on keeping a Quick hits........15
new locations; benefits
help students >> page 3 spotless apartment
>> page 6
PAGE 2
Students sober up with AlcoholEdu
Freshmen, transfer students required to take online course
By Joshua Wilwohl
Editor-in-chief
With the start of a new
school year, some students
may have their priorities in
order. Others may have their
drink orders ready.
In order to help curb the
latter, the Office of Residence
Life is making sure students
sober up with an online course.
Mercyhurst College
Director of Residence Life and
Assistant Vice President of
Student Life Laura Zirkle said
her office’s largest means of
reaching students about alcohol
is through AlcoholEdu.
Associate Director of
Residence Life Justin Ross said
AlcoholEdu is an educational
course that makes students
aware of alcohol in college.
“(It’s) an online interactive
education course part of the
alcohol, abuse, and prevention
plan (at Mercyhurst),” he said.
“It is used by over 500
colleges and universities
including the University of
Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon
University, and Yale in an effort
to educate students to encourage
them to make the best decisions
about alcohol.”
According to Director of
Marketing and Communication
Erika Tower for Outside the
Classroom, the company that
runs AlcoholEdu, the program
is entirely science based and not
opinionated.
Tower said the course is
made to “…help reinforce
information and prevent
problems before they occur.”
Ross said the course is a
requirement for all incoming
freshmen and transfer students.
According to Ross, freshmen
take AlcoholEdu for College,
Freshmen and transfer students will begin the two-part,
online AlcoholEdu course on Sept. 9.
which is a 3.5-hour course in
two parts.
Part one of the course will
start on Sept. 9, and freshmen
have 10 days to complete the
online course, said Ross.
Ross said part one of the
course consists of two surveys
and one final exam that all
freshmen must pass with a 75
percent or better.
Thirty days after completion
of part one, Ross said, part two
will begin.
According to Ross, part
two is a survey that must be
completed by Oct. 19.
Ross said AlcoholEdu
for College is different from
AlcoholEdu for Sanctions,
which students must take on
their first alcohol offense.
“AlcoholEdu for College is a
course that is a broad overview
for incoming students,” Ross
said. “AlcoholEdu for Sanctions
focuses more on the decision to
drink and what to do now that
you got in trouble.”
According to a 2005 survey
conducted by Outside the
Classroom, AlcoholEdu for
College effectively engages
NEWS
AlcoholEdu Web site
students, consistently increases
practical knowledge and
protective behaviors, motivates
students to change behavior,
undermines the college
“effect,” and decreases negative
consequences.
The survey states, “90
percent of students paid
attention to the program, 70
percent would recommend it to
other students, and 62 percent
said that AlcoholEdu stimulated
them to talk with their friends
about drinking patterns,
behaviors, and traditions on
their campuses.”
The AlcoholEdu for College
survey also states that students
who took the course were less
likely to face consequences.
“An independent, third-
party analysis of all Population-
Level Prevention results with
AlcoholEdu for College in
academic year 2003-2004
concluded that students
who completed AlcoholEdu
reported 50 percent fewer
negative health, social, and
academic consequences related
to drinking than students who
had yet been exposed to the
program,” states the survey.
Students, however, have
mixed opinions on the course.
Freshman Joe Krjcik said
the course would help him make
better decisions.
“Hopefully (the course) will
deter you and explain the bad
(alcohol) will do to your body,”
he said.
Freshman Alicia Grosso said
the program more than likely
won’t change her opinion.
“It’s a little too late for some
people (to learn about alcohol),”
she said. “Others tried alcohol
already so it needs to be taught
when you’re younger.”
Freshman Anthony Terry
agreed. “I think (learning about
alcohol) comes from your
background and how you were
raised,” he said.
Sophomore Amelia Carland,
who took the course last year,
said the program did not sway
her opinion on alcohol.
“A lot of the information I
already knew,” she said. “A lot
was common sense for us, so it
was repetitive.”
Sophomore Ben Jennings,
Police and Safety Log
Harassment
Preston Hall
August 27
Case closed
Controlled Substance
611 East 38th St.
August 30
Pending investigation
Criminal Mischief
Parking Lot #17
August 30
Case closed
Sept. 5, 2007
who also took the course, agreed
with Carland.
“Most of the info on there
I learned before that,” he said.
“And throughout the course, it
seemed redundant.”
Sophomore Krystal Johnson
said she doesn’t drink alcohol,
but found the course somewhat
educational.
“It helped me on some
things, but I don’t think it would
sway me one way or the other,”
she said.
Ross said the program offers
the chance for students to make
good choices about alcohol.
“This is the cornerstone
of our alcohol, abuse, and
prevention program,” said Ross.
“I hope people take the message
to heart and make the best
decisions.”
Zirkle agreed.
“We want to give the
message that being careful and
making healthy choices sticks,”
she said.
For more information,
students can access the
AlcoholEdu Web site at http://
college.alcoholedu.com.
Liquor Law Violation
3807 Briggs Apartments
August 31
College disicipline
Liquor Law Violation
3827 Briggs Apartments
September 1
College discipline
Liquor Law Violation
3909 Briggs Apartments
September 1
College discipline
 Sept. 5, 2007 NEWS PAGE 3

OneCard offers it all to ’Hurst students

By Jen Helbig
Staff writer
Whether you are hungry, print-
ing a last-minute assignment,
coming home late at night or
checking out a movie at the
library the OneCard is there
for you.
John Patterson, OneCard su-
pervisor said, “The one card
is the tool to access all of the
services that the school provides
to you.”
“Students use the OneCard
for door access, an ID card, the
library, a meal plan or spending
money. The card is designed
for use by any students, not just
freshmen.”
Students should realize that
the card is set up as a debit card,
which means that they must ap-
ply cash or a check to their ac-
counts before they can be used.
A meal plan or dining dollars
can be applied to a student’s ac-
count to be used at foodservices
on campus. Board meals cannot
be converted to cash; they must
be spent at the Galley, Laker Ex-
press, Sub Connection, or Egan
Cafeteria during board hours.
The OneCard acts as an all-access pass to the campus as
well as the community.
“Freshmen may only use one
board meal during each dining
period,” Patterson said. “If they
need additional food, they may
use dining dollars. Upperclass-
men can use multiple boards
when at a meal.”
Dining dollars may be used at
any of the above foodservices
only. They are not to be used at
vending machines, the bookstore,
the library, or any coffee bars.
Students can also use the
OneCard as identification for
access to the fitness center, at
campus events and Wednesday
movies, or any other instance
on campus when identification
is required.
Scoot Williams photo
Each student receives $16.70
on his or her OneCard per term
to be used at print stations at the
library and in the student union
lobby. If the value is not used,
it will not carry over to the next
term. Students will also need to
check out items from the library
with their OneCard.
“If a student runs out of
prints,” Patterson explained,
“there are stations where $1,
$5, $10 and $20 can be added to
the card.”
Campus cash or LakerLoot
can be used to purchase food on
campus, items in any on-campus
vending machines, items at the
bookstore or items at businesses
throughout the community.
A list of vendors may be viewed
http://lakernet.mercyhurst.edu/
departments/one-card/vendors.
php.
In addition, vendors that will
soon be accepting the OneCard
include Quaker Steak and Lube,
Applebee’s, Boston’s, Steak ‘n
Shake, Johnson & Flick Tire &
Automotive Service Centers,
Hair Raizerz Progressive Salon
and three locations of Country
Fair.
Sophomore Patricia Sanders
said, “I think it’s very good that
Mercyhurst is doing this for stu-
dents. It will help promote our
college name around the city.”
Junior Tim Knecht agreed. “I
think that the one card has many
advantages. It allows students a
chance to leave campus to go out
to local stores and restaurants.
The OneCard gives students
more choices as to where to eat.
Vendors are getting our business
and we are getting the chance to
eat and shop elsewhere than the
cafeteria.”
Patterson said that he would
like to have an opportunity
for students to become more
aware of the vendors available
to them.
Students who choose to par-
ticipate in the Student Advantage
program pay a one-time fee of
$35 to receive four years of the
service.
The Student Advantage pro-
gram offers discounts to over
20,000 national vendors and will
soon offer over 20 new local
businesses in addition to the 20
local businesses which already
participate.
For more information on the
Student Advantage program
students may visit the OneCard
office or http://www.studentad-
vantage.com/discountcard/.
“The Student Advantage card
used to be a separate card, but
it is now printed on the back of
the OneCard,” Patterson said.
“If you happen to lose it, we will
issue you a new number and print
a new one.”
If students lose or damage
their OneCard, a $15 fee applies
and the OneCard office will print
a new card.
Patterson and the OneCard
staff are available Monday
through Friday from 9 a.m. until
4:30 p.m. to assist with students
needs.

Miss New York alumni of Mercyhurst, to compete for Miss America

By Scott Matta
Contributing writer
The Mercyhurst community
was fortunate enough to claim
an alumnus as Miss New York.
Elisabeth Baldanza, a 23-year-
old graduate from Oneonta, was
crowned Miss New York earning
the opportunity to travel the
country, share her message, and
compete in the Miss America
pageant in January.
“It is weird,” Baldanza
explained. “I think that you
should be talking about
someone else. It is especially
strange when my friends say it.
I’m just Lissa!”
During her time here at
Mercyhurst, she was an RA
under Joe Howard who was
ecstatic for Baldanza when he
heard the news.
“When looking at someone
to role model for younger girls,
Lissa fits that to the T,” assured
Howard.
Howard was shocked when
he heard that she was even
in the pageant, yet was not
surprised that she was chosen as
the best candidate to represent
New York.
He described Baldanza as
very emotionally mature as well
as authentic and genuine.
Howard also remembers her
coordinating a service project
with her residents raising money
to purchase livestock for families
in developing nations.
The project emphasized
Baldanza’s leadership capabilities
and passion for helping and
serving others.
At this point, Baldanza is
traveling across the country
making appearances and giving
talks concerning her platform
for the pageant.
In the next few months, she
will be appearing in Los Angeles
to shoot a video with the other
contestants of Miss America
which will showcase the lives of
the girls.
“The competition was a great
learning experience as I was
able to make myself a better
person,” said Baldanza
Baldanza worked hard on a
platform to present at the New
York competition as well as the
Miss America pageant.
“In today’s culture many
young women and men are
watching celebrities and seeing
how materialistic they portray
happiness,” Baldanza explained.
“The one thing I would say to
all the girls reading this is that
we shouldn’t find our value in
superficial things.
“A true sense of personal
worth comes from developing
our character and serving others.
I feel that when an individual
can positively impact someone
else’s life, that gives value to
their own life.”
The Miss America pageant
will be broadcasted live on
Saturday, January 26.
PAGE 4
Sophomore housing takes
over North Briggs Avenue
By Joshua Wilwohl
Editor-in-chief
Mercyhurst College sopho-
mores may soon dominate North
Briggs Avenue.
According to Associate Direc-
tor of Residence Life Justin
Ross, the area currently labeled
as “North Briggs” will become a
sophomore-only living area.
The area starts with 3924 and
3926 Briggs Avenue and runs
north to 611 and 613 E. 38th
St.
Ross said the Residence Life
Office has worked on the almost-
complete project since 2003.
Ross noted the reason for the
area’s creation is due to the needs
of sophomores.
“A lot of research shows that
students in their sophomore year
still need a lot of help,” he said.
Ross emphasized that the
second year of college is a big
transition from freshmen resi-
dence halls to upperclassmen
apartments.
“A lot of places you go from
residence hall to residence hall,”
he said. “Here it’s to apart-
ments.”
According to Ross, the Resi-
dence Life Office will assist
sophomores in the transition by
creating resident assistant-led
Mercyhurst residence halls, apartments to go wireless
By Amy Zielinski
News editor
Landline Internet is soon out
the window. Wireless Internet
will hit Mercyhurst College
shortly, but it will take about the
wait of dial up.
About 100 access points
are going to be available to all
on-campus residents by the end
programs that teach sophomores
more independent living.
One program includes cook-
ing, Ross said.
“Through programming by the
RAs, they learn not to burn the
chicken,” Ross said.
Ross said as more programs
develop, the Residence Life
Office will try to work with other
departments such as career ser-
vices in order to focus programs
for sophomores.
Assistant Director of Resi-
dence Life and director of the
sophomore area Sean O’Neill
said North Briggs will branch off
of the freshman-area model.
“We have to look at sopho-
mores from a developmental
perspective,” said O’Neill.
Ross said the area is split into
upper sophomore area and lower
sophomore area due to its size.
He also said each area is assigned
a hall director similar to the
freshman area.
Ross said he wants North
Briggs to become a community
away from other upperclass-
men.
“Sophomores lose a sense
of community moving in with
juniors and seniors,” he said.
“(This area) serves the sopho-
mores, like the freshmen, inde-
pendently.”
Ross said this year sophomores
of December.
Director of Information
Technology Patricia Benekos
said the change came after
Mercyhurst administrators saw
a need for wireless Internet in
student housing.
“The administration thought
it was a high priority for
students,” said Benekos.
Many people at Mercyhurst
have been working on the
NEWS
could opt out of living in the
area, but most still decided to live
on North Briggs.
“As of now it’s not mandatory,
but a majority of sophomores
still live in sophomore housing,”
said Ross.
Sophomores that currently
live in the area have mixed opin-
ions.
Sophomore John Baranowski
said having an all-sophomore
area is key to making friends.
“We know all the people,” he
said. “You get more friendships
that way.”
Sophomore Paige Nelson
agreed.
“In the (sophomore) area, you
find more people who have the
same classes as you,” she said.
Sophomore Maeve McGoff
said she does not agree with
sophomore housing.
“I like it, but it makes me
feel more watched because you
go outside an apartment and
the RAs are there,” she said.
“You’re a supposed to feel like an
adult, but I feel more and more
watched upon.”
Ross said the Office of Resi-
dence Life wants the area to
serve the sophomores.
“(The sophomore area) is
easier for sophomores to get
the kind of housing they want,”
he said.
more than $100,000 project all
summer, she said.
According to Benekos,
Mercyhurst administration
helped foot the bill.
Network Specialist for
Mercyhust College Gary
DiPietro said a lot of work was
involved in the process.
“It was a major project
that we spent a lot of time on
– it will always be a continuous
The Erie City Police Department are now ticketing cars this
week on Briggs and Lewis avenues.
Ticket-ed off
By Abby Grasinger
Staff writer
The City of Erie has begun
ticketing cars parked illegally on
Briggs and Lewis avenues.
Warnings were placed on cars
violating traffic and safety laws
last week to prepare students.
“We placed them so students
are wary of signs,” said Mercy-
hurst College Police and Safety
Chief Ken Sidun about the
warning slips.
All tickets carry a fine of $25,
said Sidun.
The tickets are issued for viola-
tions such as parking too close
to fire hydrants and crosswalks,
as well as cars parked facing the
wrong direction.
process that we are tweaking
and refining,” he said.
Junior Meghan Reese said
going wireless will benefit
students.
“Having wireless Internet
makes it a lot more convenient
and students will have more
options where they would like
to do work,” she said.
Sophomore Daniel Scutella
agreed.
Sept. 5, 2007
Scoot Williams photo
Many students, however, are
unsatisfied about parking.
“Mercyhurst police and safety
should be taking care of the
violations because we are stu-
dents of this college” said senior
Natalie Canikk.
Students are also finding the
regulations such as the switching
of vehicles from one side of the
road to the other on Tuesdays.
Senior Kevin Burns finds the
Tuesday switch annoying.
“I find it cumbersome to keep
track of all the violations and
schedules,” he said.
To help avoid a ticket, Sidun
said students can park in Anto-
nio’s parking lot diagonal from
CVS.
The lot is free of charge, he
said.
“It’s a really good idea,” he
said. “When it’s a nice day, you
can go to a park bench, rather
than a room with white walls.”
Benekos and DiPietro have
worked out a lot of the bugs,
but now it’s just a question of
getting the Internet up and
running.
“Once we’re finished, the idea
is you’re not tied to a cable and
wall connection,” said Benkos.
 Sept. 5, 2007 FEATURES PAGE 5

I Delicious
food and
Food Fix
With Meg

ERI
historic Like peas in a pod, nothing
goes better with spaghetti than
Salt and pepper are optional
for this recipe and are used
meatballs. for taste.
decor at This recipe is a flavorful twist
on an Italian classic.
For a healthy addition to the
Italian dish you could prepare
Like most recipes, spice to whole wheat pasta.

Pufferbelly taste and experiment with new

By Shelley Turk
Staff writer
Nestled in the heart of down-
town Erie, The Pufferbelly Res-
taurant is a historic landmark.
The restaurant, named after
steam pumpers and engines
of the late nineteenth century,
is housed in a 1908 renovated
firehouse.
Artifacts and photographs
of the original building and
firemen line the walls of the
reasonably priced restaurant.
Located at the corner of
Fourth and French streets, the
restaurant’s menu plays along
with the firehouse façade, pro-
moting sides including “Fire-
house Chili with Cheese” and
“Engine House Potatoes.”
The atmosphere of the res-
taurant is cozy and inviting with
lit candles on each table.
Pufferbelly also has bar and
lounge rooms attached to the
restaurant that cater to guests
with a full wine list and other
libations.
A specialty of The Puffer-
belly is the “all you can eat”
Sunday brunch that includes
made-to-order omelets and
other breakfast and lunch fa-
vorites.
All are affordable prices,
starting at $14.95 for adults.
Recent additions to the Erie
original eateries include The
French Street Café.
The café is located directly
next to The Pufferbelly Res-
taurant and specializes in soup,
salad and sandwiches. The
owners, Bruce and Mary Ellen
Hemme, have decided the new
undertaking caters to those that
want fast, quality food at an af-
fordable price.
Reservations for your dining
experience can be made and, of
course, carry out is available.
The restaurant also has an
outside patio dining area that is
used when weather permits.
The Pufferbelly Restaurant
is a great experience when
looking for wonderful food
and good conversation about
historical Erie and firefighters
in the late 1800s.
For more information visit
the The Pufferbelly website at
www.thepufferbelly.com.
cheeses and flavors.
A few things to keep in mind
The great thing about these
meatballs is that the leftovers
do not have to go to waste.
to save your meatballs from They make an excellent meat-
sticking include: watching the ball sub for lunch the next day.
heat of your skillet and the Just melt some cheese and
amount of olive oil in your enjoy.
pan. -Meghan Dolney
Ingredients
2 lbs. ground beef
1 clove garlic
1 small, chopped onion
5 pcs. bread, soaked in milk
2/3 cup bread crumbs
2 eggs
1/3 cup Italian cheese
Pinch of parsley
Pinch of basil
Pinch of oregano
Directions

Get to know... 1.) Mix all of the ingredients to-

gether in a large bowl (using your
Year: Senior hands works the best) until every-
Hometown: Erie, PA
thing is mixed together very well.
Major: Elementary/Special Education
Favorite thing about Mercyhurst: Trimesters!
2.) Shape the mixture into balls
Least favorite thing: Limited amount of parking and brown them in the skillet with
What you did all summer: I was in Costa Rica for a lot of some olive oil.
the summer, volunteering at an orphanage in a small town. 3.) After they are browned, bake all
I took a couple classes at Veritas University, which was located
in San Jose, the capital of Costa Rica. I also participated in a
of the meatballs at 350 degrees for
lot of extreme activities, including bungee jumping off of a about 30-45 minutes, depending on
265 ft. bridge, kayaking to a small remote island, and hiking to the size that you made them.
Jenna Fitch
a gorgeous waterfall.
PAGE 6
Messy and boring dorm rooms can easily be brought to life.
Dorm decor 101
By Allie Miniri
Staff writer
As a new school year begins
at the ’Hurst, another year of
campus living is here, as well.
With a few inexpensive inno-
vations, you can easily turn
your dorm room into a great
place to sleep, study, and create
some of the best memories the
next couple years are going to
bring.
Be creative and let your room
make a statement about who
you are.
The best way to make a
dorm room your own is to
have bright and inviting colors.
A dark room often causes
drowsiness, fatigue, and even
bad moods.
As for color, the first place to
start is the bed; it is the biggest
piece of furniture in the room
and will be the focal point
everytime someone walks in
the room.
Do you have a mini fridge?
Get some colorful magnets.
Better yet, hop onto the shuttle
and go to a craft store and pick
up some printable magnet
sheets to make your very own.
Pictures, music lyrics, and
inspirational quotes make great
magnets.
Buy a potted plant, put up
colorful window shades, lay out
a cute carpet, or decorate with
FEATURES Sept. 5, 2007
Laker Fall Term Inn
Galley Grill Dinner:
S-Grilled Chicken Sandwich
M- Mushroom & Swiss Burger
Lunch:
T- Crab Cake Sandwich
M-Pierogies
W- Ziti with Red Sauce
T- Taco Salad
Scoot Wiliams photo Th- Steak Sandwich
W- BBQ Rib Sandwich
F- French Dip Sandwich
Th- Chicken Patty Sandwich
F- Sizzle Salad
S- Southwest Burger
S - Finger Sub
lights at holiday time. Hours of Operation:
Board Specials Monday-Friday 8:00am-1:00 a.m.
Junior Ashley Carman takes
advantage of pictures to cover Lunch $4.75 Saturday 1:00pm-1:00 a.m.
blank walls. Dinner $5.50
“Hanging pictures is a great Sunday 5:00pm-1:00 a.m.
way to bring in color and fun
to a room,” Carmen said. “It
makes me feel happier and Laker Express
reminds me of friends and Sandwiches, Wraps,
family at home.”
Digital photo Web sites often Look for Laker Express Salads, Ready Made
have services that allow for Minute Meals! Dinners
printed digital pictures to be
sent to students at school, thus Board Equivalency Available:
avoiding expensive printing sta-
tions at local drugstores. 11:30a.m.-8:00p.m.
Be creative with your photos,
too. Buy some plain picture
Hours of Operation:
frames and decorate them with Board Specials Mon.-Thurs. 11:30a.m.-8:00 p.m.
ribbon and puffy paint. Friday 11:30a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Make a collage or a border Lunch $4.75
right on your wall. An easy
Saturday & Sunday Closed
Dinner $5.50
way to stick things on your wall,
without ruining the paint, is to
use sticky tack. Special Features
Senior Kelly Maloney agrees
that decorations help to make
Subconnection Wrap combo-Veggie $5.59
a room cozier. other wraps $5.79
“My roommate puts plants 6” Sub $3.75 Combo $4.75 ‘Wrap It Yourself’- Veggie $3.99
and flowers around her room,
which is fun,” she said. 12”Sub $5.75 Combo $6.75 other wraps $ 4.19
For the nine months of a
school year, dorm rooms serve
as student’s home away from Hours of Operation:
home. Baja and Buffalo Chicken Subs:
Monday-Friday 11:30am-9:00p.m.
Sport team photos, high 6” Sub $4.00 Combo $5.25 Saturday 1:00pm-9:00 p.m.
school varsity letter, and pic- 12” Sub $6.00 Combo $ 7.00
tures of family and friends are Sunday 5:00pm-9:00 p.m.
all great ways to remind you of
home and show people where
you’re from.
 Sept. 5, 2007 FEATURES PAGE 7

New faculty for Walker School of Business

By Sandy Watro
Staff writer
Mercyhurst welcomes two
additional faculty members to
the Hotel, Restaurant Institu-
tional Management and buis-
ness departments.
Mercyhurst College Presi-
dent, Dr. Thomas Gamble
spoke highly of all new-coming
faculty.
Gamble said that their pre-
vious working experience in
their chosen fields “is a great
addition to the staff at Mer-
cyhurst.”
These final two faculty mem-
bers join the five other new
staff members highlighted last
week.
Mark Dobeck Ph.D, who
holds a title as an international
financial consultant, will be
File Photo
Mark Dobeck
taking over a position in the
buisness program.
Dobeck’s previous jobs
include: senior positions at
many large investment houses
and banks, as well as experience
in stock brokerage firms.
He also has taught at a uni-
versity in Texas, beginning as an
adjunct faculty member.
He also has over 20 years
of management experience in
the related fields of banking,
securities, and information
technology.
Most of his time was spent
in Russia, where he helped
develop one of Russia’s leading
securities exchanges, Moscow
Interbank Currency Exchange
(MICEX).
In Moscow, Dobeck also
taught international invest-
ments and financial risk man-
agement courses in a Russian
MBA program.
He holds a multitude of
related degrees that include: a
Doctorate in Public Adminis-
tration, a Master’s in Science in
Electrical Engineering.
Dobeck also posesses a
degree in Businesses Adminis-
tration, and finally a Bachelor’s
degree in sociology.
Charles Magalhaes will be
joining Mercyhurst’s unique and
renowned Hotel and Restaurant
Management department, more
commonly referred to by the
student body as HIRM.
Along with an Associate’s
degree from the Culinary Insti-
tute of America, Magalhaes
has received his executive chef
certification from the American
Culinary Federation.
Magalhaes is also a current
member and secretary of the
American Culinary Federation’s
North Coast Association of
Professional Culinarians.
Magalhaes is transferring
from a position in the HRIM
program at our brother campus,
Mercyhurst Northeast.
He will now take over the
position as a professor and
as the executive chef of the
Grotto.
Formally, he was employed as
a consulting pastry chef at the
Alto Cucina restaurant.
He is currently the only certi-
fied executive pastry chef in the
vicinity of Erie.
The ever growing population
of Mercyhurst demonstrates
how the ’Hurst draws in many
different people from all over
the country.
The community of Mercy-
hurst, students and professors
alike, extends a warm welcome
to these new faculty members.
“Our new instructors are of a
high quality,” said Gamble.
“Their diversity in experience
and education will be a tremen-
dous benefit to Mercyhurst.
I’m happy to welcome the new
faculty to the campus and know
that they will be a successful
addition.”

Earn Something Special NYC holds jobs for fashion students

great chance for young people
By Monica Porostosky
At Someplace Special Contributing writer
to make real connections with
the people in the industry and
gain a greater understanding
Spring Break Travel,
Holiday Gifts, Fashion majors at Mercyhurst of the kind of work that is
Tuition And Textbooks have the opportunity to spend a common.
year at the Fashion Institute of Many students find intern-
Blair’s merger with Orchard Brands has • Short-term commitment with
increased opportunities for area college opportunities for continued Technology in New York City. ships on the F.I.T. career web-
students to earn extra money through employment following peak seasons Many decide to stay in the Big site. Companies are often
evening and weekend work as seasonal • Flexible work schedules Apple to complete work experi- familiar with the school and
customer service representatives at • Modern, pleasant office
our call centers. Our customer service environments ence and internships. use the website to seek out
representatives receive telephone orders The students are presented their students. The website lists
from Blair and Orchard Brands’ customers with incredible experiences and thousands of companies and
across the country and guide them through
the ordering process. internships that are rare outside many career options.
of New York. Other popular internships
At Blair, our customer service One such internship that include Phillips-Van Heusen,
representatives enjoy: If the opportunity to earn some extra
money this school year is appealing, Mercyhurst students have taken Liz Claiborne, Ralph Lauren,
• A competitive pay rate of consider the opportunities at Blair’s Erie advantage of is with Spiegel and Macy’s.
$8.51 per hour Customer Service Center. To learn more, Brands, a women’s fashion cata- New York City is not all work
• Discounts at Orchard you can stop by our Erie Service Center,
Brands companies, 3939 West Ridge Commons, Suite D1, log and online retailer working though. Students who stay
including Blair, between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday under several buyers and assis- should also take advantage of
Appleseeds, Norm through Fridays. Or you can visit our tant buyers. attractions and events that are
Thompson Outfitters, booth at the ErieCareers Career Fair
Sahalie, Solutions, 2007, Tuesday, Sept. 18, from 10 As interns, students help with offered in the summer.
Haband, The Tog a.m. to 4 p.m. at the new Bayfront day to day tasks, such as visiting For the fashion students who
Shop, and Draper’s & Convention Center in downtown vendors, shopping the market, do get to experience NYC for
Damon’s Erie. You owe it to yourself to
• Consideration explore the possibilities that can working with the budget, and a year, the opportunities are
for fulltime be yours through part-time work at much more. plentiful, and the memories
employment Blair. EOE Staying for the summer is a everlasting.
PAGE 8
’Hurst to hold annual club and organization fair
Clubs will soon fill the student union great room.
PGSA holds annual five-week event at Mercyhurst
By Mary Vuono
Contributing writer
While many students were at
home enjoying summer break
with friends and family, Mercy-
hurst was hosting a scholarship
program called the Pennsylva-
nia Govoner’s School of the
Arts, or the PGSA.
This program hosted 200
students, between their sopho-
more and senior year of high
school.
These students have excelled
in their art programs in their
high schools throughout the
state.
The arts programs include
dance, acting, visual arts, writ-
ing and music.
Scoot Williams photo
During the event, which
lasted for five weeks, the stu-
dents learned from artists from
around the world to strengthen
their creativity.
Mercyhurst College has
been hosting the PGSA for
17 years.
Mercyhurst now holds the
record for the longest exist-
ing site for the event, which
became an official tradition in
Pennsylvania in 1973.
Mercyhurst has been the
most popular school to hold
the scholarship program for
over a decade.
Because of the school’s
strict liberal arts background,
the PGSA requests to hold its
events at Mercyhurst, despite all
of the other liberal arts colleges
FEATURES
By Jen Gildea
Features editor
With Mercyhurst’s annual
club fair approaching, students
have a good reason to come out
and see what clubs are available
to join on campus.
With over 90 different orga-
nizations in which students can
participate, Mercyhurst paves
the way for student involve-
ment.
Each recognized student
club or organization (RSCO)
offers fun activities that help
students build leadership and
social skills.
Getting involved on campus
is a great way for young people
to create friendships and meet
many new people.
“I’ve gone to the fair every
year just to see what’s offered
on campus,” said senior Megan
Shoup.
“The fair was especially ben-
eficial to me as a freshman and
sophomore.”
and universities that are located
in the state.
Mercyhurst’s performing arts
center, dance space, and art
gallery on campus surpasses
50,000 square feet, which is
another reason in which Mer-
cyhurst is such an attractive site
for the PGSA.
The students who attend the
PGSA at Mercyhurst will then
be able to be educated by artists
from not only Erie, but from all
over the world, as well.
Although the students who
participate in the PSGA mainly
focus on one area of art, they
do have chances to take other
electives to get their minds more
open to all the arts offered by
the PGSA.
During the program’s five
Darcy Kemp, director of
recognized student clubs and
organizations, said that there
are currently “over 2,200 mem-
berships among clubs and orga-
nizations at Mercyhurst.”
Similarly, last year, “there were
approximately 900 room reser-
vations for clubs on campus,”
thus showing the popularity of
clubs and desire for events and
meetings.
Although many clubs are typ-
ically organized within specific
departments, students do not
always need to be part of that
major to belong to the club.
Advantages of joining clubs
on campus extend further than
social life.
Participating in clubs, and
especially holding an officer
position, is a great resume
builder. Future emplyers often
weigh extracurricular activites
just as high as course grades
and GPA.
Mercyhurst proudly recog-
nizes numerous clubs in many
different forms, including aca-
weeks, there were gallery open-
ings, concerts, and other nightly
performances.
The students and the Erie
community could enjoy all of
these activities, which were free
of cost.
The students attended “major
classes” and “core classes,”
which all contributed to the
total educational experience.
On Saturdays, students had
the same schedule and some-
times optional and planned
activities.
Additionally, there were pre-
sentations and readings to keep
students occupied.
Students were not permitted
to leave for home during the
course of the stay, however had
plenty of activities to partici-
Sept. 5, 2007
demic clubs, environmental,
cultural diversity, recreational,
and honors organizations.
This year’s fair will be held on
Wednesday, Sept. 12, from 3:00
to 5:00 in the student union.
Tables are assigned to each
club, with representatives pres-
ent to distribute information.
Sign-up sheets are usually
available for students to join
clubs or receive more infor-
mation.
“It’s a great way for passive or
shy students to receive infor-
mation from clubs without
having to talk to someone face-
to-face,” Kemp said.
“The Union is very exciting
during the fair,” said Kemp.
“This year, the fair will be
extended beyond the Great
Room. It will also include the
foyer, upstairs rooms, and the
Student Government Cham-
bers.”
All students are encouraged
to stop by the fair to see the
many fascinating RSCOs that
Mercyhurst has to offer.
pate in and enjoy.
The PGSA is anticipating
next year’s program where it
strives to promote fields of arts
to young people.
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Sept. 5, 2007 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT PAGE 9

tHe Dancers train in Amsterdam

BuZz By Nicole Cerilli
A&E editor
Mercyhurst dance department.
In December 2006, Hunter
invited Valentine to Mercyhurst
SEPT. 7. Bone Thugs-N-
as a guest artist.
Harmony, Skant Bone,
Mercyhurst dancers had Valentine invited all
and more. House of
the opportunity to train in Mercyhurst dance majors
Blues, Cleveland.
Amsterdam with world- to audition for her summer
renowned ballerina Valerie intensive program in
SEPT. 24. Hurt. House
Valentine. Amsterdam.
of Blues (Cambridge
The dancers attended the Juniors Cassie Powers,
Room), Cleveland.
intensive dance program in Jackie Koehler, and Liz Clain-
Amsterdam thanks to a unique Stefanelli were accepted into the
SEPT. 26. Goo Goo
collaboration by Valentine and program.
Dolls, Lifehouse. Agora
Dance Chair Tauna Hunter. Overall, the trip was an eye-
Theatre, Cleveland. Note:
Valentine and Hunter were opening experience for everyone
Rescheduled from Aug.
childhood friends in Salt Lake involved.
28 at Tower City. Original
City. That is exactly what Hunter
tickets will be honored.
Valentine later trained with had hoped for it to be.
the London Royal Ballet “It is important to me that my Contributed photo
SEPT. 29. Vanilla Ice.
School, followed by a career as a students know how others live, Cassie Powers, Jackie Koehler, and Liz Clain-Stefanelli posed
Cellblock, Erie. for a photo shoot at the Dance Street studio in Amsterdam.
principal dancer with the Dutch think, communicate, and enjoy
National Ballet in Amsterdam. the world,” said Hunter.
SEPT. 29. Dizzy Reed.
Hunter and Valentine Clain-Stefanelli was intrigued usual life,” said Koehler. teachers, and they recieved a lot
Roadhouse T heatre,
reconnected two years ago by Amsterdam because it seemed During their four-week stay of individual attention because
Erie.
in Amsterdam. It was then to be a melting pot for many overseas, the dancers’ days the classes were small.
that they began talking about different cultures. Koehler was were jam-packed with classes, Valentine also had dancers
SEPT. 29. Mekons. Pat’s
collaborative possibilities also fascinated by the culture. rehearsals, and performances. from the Dutch National
in the Flats, Cleveland.
between Valentine’s new “There is something magical The dancers were privledged Ballet come to the program for
studio, Dance Street, and the about discovery outside of one’s to work with a variety of partnering classes.
OCT. 4. Guster, Brett
Dennen. Bryce Jordan
Center, State College.
On sale Aug. 31 at Tick-
etmaster.
Fall Hours
Open
OCT. 4. Brian Regan.
Warner Theatre, Erie. Wednesday - Saturday
$32.50. On sale now.
Noon - 9 p.m.
OCT. 7. Johnette Napoli-
tano. Beachland Ball-
room, Cleveland. Closed
OCT. 11. The Misfits. Sunday - Tuesday
Cellblock, Erie.

OCT. 18. The Wiggles.

Tullio Arena, Erie. Mercyhurst OneCards accepted
OCT. 20. Pat Monahan.
House of Blues, Cleve-
land. On sale date TBA.
Every Wednesday
Cone Special
Courtesy of Goerie.com 1 flavor, 1 scoop, 1 dollar
 PAGE 10
Camille Nischal, far right, talks to local villagers in India.
Inspired by Indian art
By Nicole Cerilli
A&E editor
A Mercyhurst art professor
was recently inspired by the
abundance of art in Indian
culture and schools.
Camille Nischal, assistant
professor of art, traveled to
India this summer to visit her
husband’s family. She dedicated
a large portion of her trip to
observing the roll of art in
India.
Although you do not
necessarily have to travel to
another country to view its art,
Nischal said that it’s worth the
trip.
“There is something special
about the aesthetic experience
of living and breathing it,” said
Nischal.
Nischal brought back a wealth
of photos and stories to share
with her classes.
“It is very helpful when art
educators know about art in
other countries because it gives
students inspiration and ideas
for classes of their own,” said
junior art major Ricki Proper.
Proper said that it is good
when professors are able to
tie in art history from other
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Contributed photo
cultures and that it adds and
extra element to their classes.
Nischal said that she was
most fascinated by how art is
embedded into so many aspects
of everyday life in India.
Unlike in most American
cities, crafters can be found up
and down the streets in India.
Colorful paintings and
exquisite drawings appear on
everything from buildings to
signs.
Nischal said that the art
within the temples in India really
caught her eye. One temple in
particular drew her in because
of the 140 life-size elephants
that were painted all over the
building.
“Even in grassy fields, little
specks of color can be seen
scattered amongst the grass,”
said Nischal.
In addition to observing art
in everyday life, Nischal studied
the roll of art in Indian schools
in hopes of learning something
that she could bring back to
share with her art education
classes at Mercyhurst.
Nischal continues to research
how American teachers
incorporate and implement
art into the classroom
environment.
Sept. 5, 2007
Choir takes on Ireland
By Katie Wootton
Contributing writer
The last thing a group of
Mercyhurst students expected
to be doing over the summer
would be sitting around a local
pub in Ireland at 3 a.m. singing
Irish ditties with the town
priest.
But that is exactly what
happened at least one night
during the Mercyhurst Choir’s
eight day trip Ireland this past Contributed photo
summer. Dungarvan, Ireland welcomes the Mercyhurst College choir.
Director and coordinator
Rebecca Ryan led the 47 After the photo shoot, the students attended Mass at
students on the trip with a delegation and several students Abbey Side Chapel. Then entire
cultural experience that was went to their formal meeting choir took part in a concert for
musical and fun. place. the congregation.
Ryan plans an international Here, Ryan was presented The audience at the
with a plaque for the college. congregation responded with a
trip almost every year.
In addition, the students were standing ovation after their last
For many students, the most
exciting part of the trip was formally welcomed by the rousing spiritual by Erie native,
exploring the sights and sounds community. Harry Burleigh.
of Ireland. During the ceremony, the Shane was honored to be part
“I have never seen more choir students sang the “Celtic of the trip even though she was
beautiful landscapes or terrain Blessing” for those who not a music or voice major.
in my life. It was literally assembled and were guests at a The trip was particularly
breathtaking. No picture or reception. special to Shane because of her
description does justice to its Shortly thereafter, the rich Irish background.
beauty. You have to see it for
yourself,” said former senior
Jessica Shane.
Junior Kara Stadelman’s
favorite memory was “…all the
pubs and kissing the Blarney
Stone.”
On a typical day, the choir
awoke at 8 a.m. to travel to
Ireland’s picturesque cities.
They stopped to dine and shop
along the way.
The group began their
journey in Galway, Ireland’s
fastest-growing city. Then they
experienced the Irish language
and culture in the Aryan
Islands.
While in Dungarvan,
the group was greeted by a
delegation including the mayor.
A select group of students
also had a photo shoot at the
sign that declares Erie to be
Dungarvan’s sister city.
 Sept. 5, 2007
IT service improved Fashion personal preference
By Cameron Sabel
Contributing writer
It’s a Wednesday afternoon.
You’re typing a paper for class
the next morning - let’s face it,
you’re probably not doing work
ahead of time - and suddenly
your computer just stops work-
ing.
The blue screen of death
comes up and tells you that
something went wrong and you
are screwed. Time to call Iin-
formation Technology. You get
someone on the phone and they
tell you to bring your computer
to the helpdesk on Friday. Now
you’ve got to start your paper
over and God only knows how
long your computer is going to
be gone. Is it going to be two
days or two weeks?
Sound familiar? It should,
especially if you’re an upper-
classman. The IT department at
Mercyhurst has a terrible reputa-
tion of inefficiency and general
unhelpfullness. That reputation
was somewhat warranted a few
years ago, but there have been
major improvements since then.
Unfortunately, the student per-
ception has not changed, which
leads to all sorts of unpleas-
antry. Other than move-in and
beginning of the year network
registrations, which are always
hectic, things at the IT depart-
ment have been much more pro-
fessional and much faster than
most people seem to think.
It may be frustrating when
you call IT and they can’t fix
your problem immediately, but
there are a lot of problems on
campus and not many people
who are willing and able to deal
with them. The small staff at
the helpdesk can only handle
so many computers at a time.
Sometimes, the problems are
not easy to fix. A major help to
everyone are the Res-Techs, or
they would be, if people remem-
bered that they existed. The Res-
Techs are the front line of the
IT department and work inde-
pendently of the bureaucracy
that you have to go through at
the helpdesk. Unfortunately,
people don’t make use of them,
and then complain when they
have to wait to get their minor
computer problems fixed.
IT still needs to improve a lot.
The helpdesk is understaffed
and sometimes not knowledge-
able to fix the more difficult
problems. Very few of the
people there have any sort of
computer background, other
than messing with their own
PCs. However, they still do a lot
of positive things, like getting
LakerVapor up in all the resi-
dential and academic buildings
on campus this year.
It comes down to this: if you
can’t fix your own computer,
don’t complain and verbally
abuse the people who can. Most
of the workers at the IT depart-
ment are students, overworked
and underpaid, who don’t really
want to be yelled at by their
impatient and panicked peers.
If you give IT a chance and
be polite, I think you’ll find
things are a lot better than
you’ve heard.
OPINION PAGE 11
By Ellen Koenig
Staff writer
Fashion is a personal pref-
erence, often stressed to meet
certain standards of seasonal
attire.
It has long been the bain of
discussion among socialites and
those who find their own sense
of style. Scoot Williams photo
After a marathon of “Amer- Ellen Koenig browses ANTM’s artistic fashions.
ica’s Next Top Model” on Sat-
urday afternoon, I looked at the room in the closet. the world, why is it so difficult
clothes the girls wore. Many recently featured styles for the fashion industry to pro-
The clothes are so intricate are dated and can be found in voke new concepts?
they should be considered vintage shops. Since manufacturers are
works of art. Recent economic trends of unable to create unique styles
It is when the fashions are fil- the international market allow that simply jump off the racks
tered down to the racks of Old the fashion industry to create to become great new fashions, it
Navy or Express that the art is hideous, mundane trends, avail- must be left to the individual to
utterly destroyed and mass pro- able to the masses. be express creativity through his
duced clothing takes up more With such creative vision in or her attire.
Joshua Wilwohl Editor-in-Chief editormerciad@mercyhurst.edu
Amy Zielinski & Casey Greene News Editors newsmerciad@mercyhurst.edu
Jen Gildea Features Editor featuremerciad@mercyhurst.edu
Merissa Frank Opinion Editor opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu
Chris Davis & Brittany Jackett Sports Editors sportsmerciad@mercyhurst.edu
Nicole Cerilli A&E entertainmentmerciad@mercyhurst.edu
Scoot Williams Photographer photomerciad@mercyhurst.edu
Katie Diley & Tiffany Cook Production Editors prodmerciad@mercyhurst.edu
Leslie Ruchala Advertising Manager admerciad@mercyhurst.edu
Noelle Lelakus Copy Editor copymerciad@mercyhurst.edu
Lenore Skomal Advisor lsmokal@mercyhurst.edu
The Merciad is the student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst College.
It is published throughout the school year, with the exception of finals
week. Our office is in Hirt, Room 120B.
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.
PAGE 12 OPINION Sept. 5, 2007

Moribund morals: The decline of religious right?

The Good,
the Bad &
the Ugly
The Good
The new fossil casts in
the geology department
are bringing in a lot of
people and publicity.
2005 papal candidate,
Cardinal Oscar Andrés
Rodríguez, is the guest
homilist for Friday’s Mass
of the Holy Spirit.
By Keith Nemeth
Contributing writer
Idaho Senator Larry Craig
recently resigned due to a men’s
room sex sting.
An undercover officer sat in
a stall investigating reports of
sexual activity occurring in that
bathroom. Craig occupied the
adjacent stall, where the offi-
cer recognized specific acts of
sexual solicitation.
The officer then showed Craig
his badge and arrested him.
Could this spell doom for the
Republican Party, a political fac-
tion that prides itself on family
values?
Craig’s indiscretions are not
the first incidence of Republi-
cans engaging in situations that
go against their plank of moral
superiority.
Nearly one year ago, Florida
Representative Mark Foley was
forced to resign from Congress
due to sexually explicit instant
messages to teenage boys who
were currently serving or had
served as Congressional Pages.
The idea of sex scandals and
the religious right is a strange
dichotomy—how exactly can a
political party continue to exist
if it does not practice what it
preaches?
The Republican Party may be
at a crossroads.
To survive, it may have to
shed the burden of religion, a
duty it once accepted to battle
heathen Leftists.
A slow tide is rising in Amer-
ica, that will pit the moderate
Republicans against its religious
oppressors. It is imperative that
the Republican Party find its
identity.
How much longer can it sur-
vive when the idea of the “per-
fect family” is a caricature of
1950s television?
It is time to reject the false
reality that is being portrayed,
and accept the world for what it
really is—flawed.
Both political parties are
subject to their fair share of
scandals, but it is the Republi-
cans that denounce the vices of
men, making them hypocritical
when they are caught in “mal-
feasance”.
When the Republicans finally
decide to stop inculcating Amer-
ica with its unachievable values
will the debates between the two
political parties be about issues,
and not a battle of moral stan-
dards or lack thereof.

The Bad
Buffalo Chicken subs,
Baja Chicken subs, and all
wraps don’t fit on board
equivalency anymore due
to rising dairy and poultry
prices.
Inconsistency in room
temperatures keep stu-
dents guessing on what to
wear to class- a hoodie or
a bikini?
Parking, as usual, is hit
or miss.
The Ugly
The computers on the
first floor of the library
rarely work, have fuzzy
screens, and don’t support
Microsoft Word.
If you are in Historical
Geology and didn’t buy
your books last week, the
bookstore is out of the
textbook.
Please email any sugge-
tions to opinionmerciad@
mercyhurst.edu.
Positive spin on hip-hop
By Gary Williams
Contributing writer
Society has been unrelent-
less with its attacks on hip-hop
music.
An artist named Akon lost a
sponsorship due to supposed
lewd behavior with a minor.
Oprah Winfrey criticized the
language in hip-hop music on
one of her shows. Al Sharpton
is in on all of the bashing as
well.
Yet what tends to go unno-
ticed is the amount of philan-
thropy that hip-hop contributes.
Many communities are grateful
for the contributions that hip-
hop artists have made.
There are many examples of
the hip-hop community giving
back to society.
Nelly holds bone marrow
drives throughout the country.
Snoop Dogg created a youth
football league in Long Beach
California. He even coaches a
team in the league.
Florida artist Rick Ross set up
charities which provides men-
tors for young people in Miami.
P. Diddy ran the New York
WANT TO BE ON TV?
AUDITION
Hurst TV, Channel 19, is looking for talented students to
Marathon to raise money for his
host shows and act on Mercyhurst’s own student run
charity, Diddy’s House.
television station.
During the aftermath of
Hurricane Katrina, some of the Thursday Sept. 13th
largest contributions came from Hirst 110 8:00 p.m.
the hip-hop community. Or submit a disc or tape to Hurst TV/Communication
Mississippi hip-hop artist Department/Hirt Building or e-mail
David Banner practically bsheridan@mercyhurst.edu
stopped promoting his album in
order to help the people in the
areas devastated by Hurricane
Katrina.
Jay-Z did the “Water for Life
Tour” in order to bring potable
BABYSITTER WANTED
water to communities around
the world.
There are many other artists
Looking for someone to care for our 5
that have given back to their month old in our home 1 to 2 days a week
communities.
Hip-hop has definitely made
with some light housekeeping. Must have
a charitable contribution. child care experience and is willing to do
I know that some of the
songs have questionable mate-
an occasional weekend. References will be
rial in them. required. Must have a car.
There are behaviors that
some artists exhibit that is inex-
Pay is negotiable.
cusable. If interested, please email at
Yet it is impossible to deny the
positive contributions that many
lawpdk@roadrunner.com or 397-1903. An
of these artists have made. interview and interactive session with our
So when we all go to judge
them, let’s do so in a fair and
baby will be necessary prior to approval of
just manner. Let’s look at both position.
the good and the bad.
 Sept. 5, 2007
Mercyhurst’s Kurt Young (6) attempts a shot as Tyler Emerick (9) looks on.
Men’s soccer struggles to score
By Katie Waldin
Contributing writer
Over the past week, the
Mercyhurst men’s soccer
team has come up against two
hard working and extremely
competitive teams.
With dedication, focus, and
hard work, the Lakers came
out with one win and one loss
as they move farther into the
season.
The men are working hard to
improve their game and score
more goals.
Last Tuesday the Lakers took
on the Seton Hill Griffins in a
well fought battle.
Mercyhurst came out on top
with the 3-1 win, despite the
fact that Seton Hill scored early
on in the game.
Although the Lakers were
down 1-0 at the half, it did
not stop them from stepping
up their game, and having the
desire to win by putting the ball
into the back of the net.
Sean Spangler and Kurt
Young each scored early goals
in the second half, to give the
Lakers the much needed lead
they were looking for.
Once they were ahead of the
Griffins, there was no turning
back, as Billy Colton scored the
final goal in the 75th minute to
end the game with a victory.
The Lakers outshot the
Griffins 13-5 and dominated
the second half of the game.
With the impressive come
back over Seton Hill and their
1-1-1 record, the men’s team
looked forward to Kansas City,
M.O.
There they took on the un-
defeated Rockhurst University
Hawks.
On Sunday, when the
undefeated Rockhurst took on
the Lakers they gave the team a
run for their money.
The Lakers kept the game
neck in neck until the last five
minutes when the Hawks
were able to sneak one passed
Mercyhurst goalkeeper, Danny
Mudd.
The lone goal was scored in
the 85th minute off a free kick
at the top of the eighteen yard
goalie box.
Rockhurst forward, Tom
SPORTS
Sports Information photo
Heinemann, headed the ball into
the back of the net to score the
game winning goal with only a
few minutes to spare.
“They worked really hard the
whole game and held them off,”
said Mercyhurst women’s soccer
player, Sarah Powell.
“It is unfortunate that they
scored with only five minutes
left in the game. The work rate
on the field is there, they just
need to put a few more away in
the back of the net.”
With a 1-2-1 record, the
Mercyhurst men’s soccer team
is looking to improve their game
as they move closer to the Great
Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic
Conference (GLIAC) games in
the upcoming weeks.
This week the men will
try to get back over the .500
mark, against Indianapolis
University and Oakland City,
in the Oakland Tournament in
Indiana.
With numerous new freshman
faces, the young team is looking
to organize all of their strengths
and work together to be
successful on the field for their
upcoming games.
Women’s soccer battles
heat in overtime draw
By Stephen Duggan
Contributing writer
After seeing off the challenge
of Tiffin 3-0 on Tuesday, the
Mercyhurst women’s soccer
team travelled on Sunday to
Kansas City to play Rockhurst.
This would be their fourth in
a series of away games at the
start of the season. Rockhurst,
who traditionally fields a strong
team, would be a stiff test for
the Lakers, especially in the
searing heat.
Mercyhurst came out with
all guns blazing and in the sixth
minute Sarah Powell blasted a
shot from fifteen yards out that
found the back of the Hawks
net.
The latest strike brings
Powell’s tally to five goals in
four games. The assist came
from senior Jacque Sluga.
The game remained 1-0 until
the much welcomed half time
break.
Rockhurst quickly began to
fight back. Eight minutes after
the restart, they drew level with
Men’s water polo wins
first-ever season opener
From staff reports
With the Mercyhurst men’s
water polo team coming off
of their best season in school
history, the Lakers have high
expectations for the 2007
season.
On Saturday the Lakers
opened their season with a
victory over Queens (N.Y.) 17-7
in the Navy Labor Day Open.
The win remarked the team’s
first ever season opening win
in the programs seven years
of existence, which may revel
PAGE 13
a goal from freshman Danielle
Boyce, her second of the year.
The Lakers were unlucky
not to hit the game winning
goal during regulation, as Sarah
Powell was twice denied by the
posts from dead ball situations.
Mercyhurst held the advantage
on shots during the game.
However, they were unable to
find the net as the game finished
as a tie in double overtime.
Rebecca Heintzman finished
up the day with two saves in the
Mercyhurst goal.
Sophomore Karla Vogt
thought the team played hard
despite the warm climate.
“Despite the long travel and
hot weather, we played hard
and with heart,” she said. “Even
though the result was a tie,
Rockhurst was a competitive
team and we felt we handled
them well. It gives us high hopes
for our games ahead.”
Mercyhurst now holds a 2-1-
1 record as they return to Erie
for their first home game of the
season against Charleston on
Saturday. The game will kick off
at 3 p.m.
a sign of good things to come
this season.
Junior Alex Perry led the team
with five goals and two assists to
lead all scores. This feat helped
him to earn male athlete of the
week honors.
The Lakers goalie, Andy
Sekulski, made his first career
start in goal recording 10 saves
and three steals.
The Lakers next four games
will take place in Princeton, N.J.
in the Princeton Invitational.
Two of their games will be
against two top 20 teams, No. 15
Princeton and No. 18 Bucknell.
 PAGE 14
Volleyball remains strong
By Christine Mersch
Contributing writer
The Mercyhurst women’s
volleyball team has a lot of
things to be proud of, as the
beginning of their 2007 season
has been filled with hard work,
solid play, and best of all,
rewarding wins.
Last week, the Lakers provided
their fans with a convincing
home-opening win by beating
Indiana (Pa.), in three games, by
the scores of 30-22, 30-18 and
30-24.
Leading the team with their
impressive performances were
junior Lauren Kubinski, who
led the team with 17 kills, and
co-captain Julia Butler, who
recorded her third 40-assist
match of the season.
Football suffers first defeat
By Kyle Craig
Contributing writer
After tackling a very talented
Kentucky State team to take
its first season opener in three
years, the Lakers turned their
attention to the No. 15 ranked
Northwood Timberwolves.
The first three quarters turned
out to be quite a battle as each
team shared the lead, but the
Lakers fell 28-10.
The Lakers were the first to
score by capitalizing on a key
Northwood penalty early in the
drive. The drive lasted a total
of 5:37 and was capitalized by
a fade pass to the corner of the
end zone by Mitch Phillis to
Josh Szeluga.
The Lakers looked as though
they were going to runaway
with the game after controlling
a solid drive that took advantage
of Northwood mistakes.
However, the Timberwolves
quickly struck back with a 21
With that win under their belt,
the squad looked forward to this
past weekend’s tournament, the
Mercyhurst Invitational, where
they hoped to continue their
strong start to the season.
They opened the event with
victories over West Virginia
Wesleyan 30-18, 26-30 and 30-
25, and Seton Hill 30-20, 30-28
and 30-26.
Leading the team with
outstanding play were co-
captain Jenna Matson, Kubinski,
Butler, and freshman Kendall
Ashworth.
The following day, the Lakers
found themselves victorious
over Holy Family 30-21, 30-21
and 30-26, and W. Va. Wesleyan
30-14, 30-17 and 30-21,
respectively.
Matson, Butler, Kubinski, and
Ashworth were all named to the
play drive to tie the game at
seven heading into the half.
Northwood kept the ball on
the ground for most of the drive
pounding it into the Laker’s
defensive line. They capitalized
on 53 yards rushing along with a
12-yard touchdown pass to end
the drive.
Other than this small hick-
up by the defense, the Lakers
did a great job stopping the
Timberwolves offene.
The Lakers’ defense was
led by Theo Hall who had six
tackles and one key interception
during the game.
With time running out in the
first half, Hall blocked a field
goal attempt by Northwood
which would have given the
Timberwolves a three point lead
going into the half.
The second half did not go
quite as the Laker’s had planned
with the Timberwolves striking
quickly in the third quarter.
With 7:23 left in the third
quarter, the Northwood
SPORTS
all-tournament team as a result
of their superb play. Matson
was named tournament MVP.
Kubinski felt that the first
place tournament finish
reflected the hard work that is
being put into practices.
Also adding to the success, she
feels, is the team chemistry. “We
are playing so well as a team this
year. We are so much better as a
team then we were last season at
this time,” she said.
“We are getting along well
and it shows on the court.”
Currently, Mercyhurst is riding
a five game winning streak and
stands 8-1 on the season.
This weekend they are hosting
yet another tournament at the
Mercyhurst Athletic Center for
what will hopefully be a victory
filled weekend and another first
place finish.
offense struck with a two yard
touchdown rush.
Mercyhurst’s last glimmer of
hope came with 7:19 left in the
third quarter when the Lakers
were able to drive 60 yards on
12 plays to the Timberwolves 26
yard line.
This set up a 43 yard field goal
for Chris Ryan. The kick was
good, making it his first career
field goal as a Laker.
On a positive note, the Lakers
looked very strong on both the
offensive and defensive end.
In addition, Mitch Phillis
made history by moving into
2nd place on the Mercyhurst
Lakers all-time passing list.
In addition, Frank Ziegler,
Aaron Haynes, and Brandon
Hill had monumental days
combining for a total of 181
yards.
The Lakers next challenge
will be at Ferris State (1-0) on
Saturday. The Lakers look to
seek revenge for last year’s 28-7
loss that they had against them.
’Hurst baseball a success
By Brittany Jackett
Sports editor
The bright lights, illuminated
scoreboard, freshly cut outfield
grass, cheering adoration of
thousands of fans - all of this
and more is part of nearly every
young boy’s dream – to become
a Major League Baseball (MLB)
player.
However, each year in the
United States only a mere
10.5 percent of NCAA senior
baseball players are chosen to
enter into the elite world of
professional baseball according
to NCAA Online.
Two of these fortunate, hard-
working men, David Lough and
Brian Espersen, were members
of the Mercyhurst baseball team
for the past two years.
This past June, during the
2007 MLB draft, Lough was
selected in the 11th round
(336th overall), by the Kansas
City Royals to join their rookie
Appalachian League team, the
Burlington Royals.
This selection made him
the highest player drafted in
Mercyhurst’s history.
Later, Espersen was chosen
by the Houston Astros in the
18th round (561st overall), to play
for their Class A New York-
Penn League team, the Tri-City
ValleyCats.
At Mercyhurst, these athletes
were standout ballplayers, both
posting impressive numbers and
receiving remarkable accolades.
Lough, a centerfielder for
Mercyhurst, put together a solid
2007 season with 74 hits, a .404
batting average, 49 runs batted
in (RBI’s), eight homeruns, and
23 stolen bases.
These numbers, among
others, helped Lough receive
a selection in the draft, as well
as a place on the Rawlings/
Amercian Baseball Coaches
Association All-North Central
Region first team and the All-
Sept. 5, 2007
Great Lakes Intercollegiate
Athletic Conference (GLIAC)
first team.
Espersen, a starting pitcher
for Mercyhurst, led the team
in strikeouts with 69 as well as
innings pitched (60).
He also posted the ninth best
ERA in the GLIAC.
As members of their new
teams, both Espersen and
Lough are making considerable
contributions.
In New York, Espersen is
working to distinguish himself
as a pitcher; a rather daunting
task against a pool of high-
caliber hitters.
Although his current record
is 0-2, Espersen has four starts
and eight appearances, during
which he fanned 15 batters.
With his last game
approaching this Friday,
Espersen commented on his
first season.
“I feel that overall my first
season of professional baseball
went pretty good,” he said.
“It was a good learning
experience and I feel like I’ve
gotten a lot better in many ways,
especially mechanically.”
For the Burlington Royals,
Lough, after battling an injury
early in the season, hit a team
high .337 with 29 hits, six
doubles, two homeruns and
twelve RBI’s.
Also, just as he did at
Mercyhurst, Lough continues
to show off his speed with six
stolen bases.
Lough’s final game of his first
season playing professional ball
was August 27, when the Royals
fell to the Bristol Sox, 4-6.
Through hardwork and
dedication, these Mercyhurst
athletes have overcome great
odds and entered into the world
of professional sports.
As their former teammate Jim
Ludwig commented on their
selection, “Them being drafted
is a great accomplishment, and
an inspiration to the team.”
 Sept. 5, 2007 SPORTS
Laker Sports ‘Quick Hits’ Tennis starts season with a victory
This week’s results...
By Kirk Campbell
Contributing writer
Football.........................................................Sep.1, L 24-10, Northwood
Field hockey........................................ ............... Sep. 1, L 4-2, Catawba The Mercyhurst women’s
Sep. 2, L 10-1, Davidson
tennis team opened the season
Men’s soccer………………………………………… Aug. 29, W 3-1, Seton Hill
Sep. 1, L 1-0, Rockhurst
with two victories by defeating
Women’s soccer……………………………………….Sep. 1, T 1-1, Rockhurst West Liberty State 8-1 on
Women’s volleyball………………………..Aug. 29, W 3-0, Indiana U. (Pa.) Sunday and St. Vincent 8-1 on
Aug. 31, W 3-1, W.V. Wesleyan Monday.
Aug. 31, W 3-0, Seton Hill This season Mercyhurst
Sep. 1, W 3-0, Holy Family will have to deal with two key
Sep. 1, W 3-0, W.V. Wesleyan losses: Chelsea Dowing due to
Women’s tennis………………………….Sep. 2, W 8-1, West Liberty State transfering to Bryant College
Sep 3, W 8-1, St. Vincent
and Jaime Sutyak due to
Men’s water polo……..………………………………..Sep. 1, W 17-7, Queens
graduation.
The additions of freshmen
Kelton Macke and Kim Ezzo
Perry/Matson Athletes of the Week will take command of those
postitions in the line-up.
Mercyhurst men’s water polo’s Alex Perry, a junior college All- When asked about how they
American transfer who played at Grossmont a year ago, led the prepared for the opening match
team with five goals, two assists and a steal in the win over Queens
senior Christine Mersch said,
on Saturday.
“This preseason we spent a lot
Mercyhurst volleyball player Jenna Matson, a junior, totaled 49 of time drilling, which got us
kills, 13 service aces and 33 digs in four matches this weekend in in shape and getting back into
the Mercyhurst Invitational. Matson led her team to a 4-0 finish and a comfortable rhythm. We also
was named the tournament MVP. did a lot of match play, which
helped us get mentally prepared
Women’s volleyball named team of the week for the upcoming matches.”
The Mercyhurst women’s volleyball team continued its impressive
start to the 2007 season, as it capped a 4-0 weekend and a first-
place finish at the Mercyhurst Invitational. With the early season
Field hockey still looking for first win of year
success, their 8-1 record already tops the previous season’s win
total of seven. Matson, sophomore Julia Butler, junior Lauren By Chris Davis
Kubinski and freshman Kendall Ashworth were all named to the Sports editor
all-tournament team.
Sports performances vary
Two former men’s lacrosse players drafted from week to week and this
weekend was just not a good
The Arizona Sting, a team in the National Lacrosse League,
weekend for Mercyhurst field
drafted graduated Mercyhurst lacrosse players, Alan Downey and
Scott Janssen, each of who were contributors in the success of
hockey and that’s all there is to
Mercyhurst’s national championship runner up team. Downey was it.
selected in the fourth round and Janssen went as their fifth round The team traveled on the
selection. road to play against two tough
opponents and struggled.
Seven players make Canadian U-22 roster Coach Stacey Gaudette said,
“With the young team we have
Mercyhurst’s forwards Valerie Chouinard and Meghan Agosta this year, they will continue to
were named team captain and assistant captain for the Canadian show improvement with every
U-22 team that defeated the United States in three consecutive game we play.”
exhibition games. Other Laker players on the team included “All of these ladies were
Stephanie Jones, Hayley McMeekin and Jesse Scanzano; Ashley brought in because they have
Cockell; and goaltender Laura Hosier, who received the win in the
unbelievable talent; we need
final two games.
them to keep playing hard and
the opportunities will come.”
The Lakers started off
against West Liberty State with
Ezzo and senior Jennifer Daly
scoring an 8-2 decision at No.1
doubles.
Followed by Jaclyn McLean
and Meghan Raynor winning
8-0 at No. 2, and Macke and
Mersch holding an 8-6 decision
at No. 3.
Mercyhurst took the early 3-0
team lead into singles and did not
look back sweeping the bottom
five matches never losing more
then two games in a set. No.
2 saw Ezzo win 6-2, 6-0, while
McLean won at No. 3, 6-1, 6-2.
Raynor gathered a victory 6-2,
6-2 at No. 4, and Macke won
6-2, 6-1 at No. 5. Maria Franco
capped off Mercyhurst’s great
play with a 6-1, 6-1 decision at
No. 6.
Mercyhurst scored its second
8-1 decision in consecutive
games when they defeated St.
Vincent at Westwood Racquet
Club.
In singles play Mercyhurst was
led by Daly who won at the No.
On Saturday, Catawba, which
is located in Salisbury, N.C.
opened their season by defeating
the Lakers by a count of 4-2.
After Mercyhurst trailed 2-0
to Catawba, the Lakers would
take a timeout to focus.
The Lakers came out of the
timeout with some optimism.
Mercyhurst took their next
possession down the field, and
Haley Brochu would score their
first goal of the game.
After Mercyhurst fell behind
4-1 in the second half, the Lakers
would continue to play hard.
Kristen Fogle scored her first
goal of the season with seven
minutes left in the game.
The Lakers had their chances
as they held a 9-8 advantage in
penalty corners and attempted
16 shots.
PAGE 15
1 spot by a 6-2, 6-4 decision.
The Lakers ended up winning
the top five spots as Ezzo won
6-0, 6-3 at No. 2, while McLean
won 6-2, 6-1 at No. 3, Raynor
scored a 6-2, 6-1 decision at No.
4 and Macke won 6-2, 6-0 at No.
5.
The Lakers swept doubles
play managing only to lose six
games in the three matches.
This weekend was head coach
Neil Leroy’s first taste of the fall
tennis season after taking over
in January.
Leroy coached the Lakers to
a 4-3 spring season improving
on their 8-10 fall season from a
year ago.
“Winning our first two
matches of the season was
a huge confidence boost for
us heading into our GLIAC
matches starting next week,”
said Mersch. “It was a good
practice for us.”
The Lakers travel to
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
with a 2-0 record for their first
GLIAC matches on Friday.
Mercyhurst traveled to
Davidson (2-0) on Sunday and
were defeated 10-1.
The teams battled and kept
the game close. Mercyhurst tied
the game 1-1, only three minutes
into the second half with a goal
by Emily Warren.
The Wildcats would soon
gain momentum, scoring nine
consecuitive goals for the win.
The only other team to score
10 goals against the Lakers was
Houghton in 1998.
Mercyhurst has opened the
season 0-3 for the first time
since 1997.
Sophomore Brittany Coppola
said, “As a team we need to work
play strong for 70 minutes, and
put two halves together.”
The Lakers play Division I
Robert Morris on Friday.
PAGE 16 SPORTS Sept. 5, 2007

Laker sports

Lakers on 5-game
winning streak
>> page 14

Scoot Williams photo