The Merciad, April 16, 2008

8/6/2019 The Merciad, April 16, 2008

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Lacrosse upsetsNo. 4 in nation

POLITICAL ADSAdmin. concerned

with 501 (c) (3);Merciad contacts

law center

How to work, not hate a jobFEATURES 9

STAFF EDITORIAL 15

SPORTS 23

NEWS 4


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Each year millions of peopleacross the world dedicate oneday to environmental awarenessand appreciation. They call itEarth Day.

This year Mercyhurst College isextending that dedication, taking

an entire week to recognize theimportance of the Earth.Earth Week is Mercy-

hursts way of celebrating EarthDay, which is held each year on

April 22, said Dr. James Sny-der, co-chair of the events andMercyhurst Green Team faculty chair.

We take something good, suchas the goodness of the Earth,and try to multiply it seven-foldso that there is a weeks worthof celebratory, educational and

inspirational events.Senior Torrie Caruso said sheis surprised and excited that theevent has been extended to last

a week.I think that a week-

long celebration isimportant,

Caruso said. It was great that we had a day, and it is pretty coolthat the school decided to makeit a week.

Sophomore Erik Perrin said heplans to take part in several of theevents in this years celebration

I didnt know about it lastyear, but this year Id like to getmore involved, sophomore Erik Perrin said.

Earth Week begins Monday, April 21 and continues throughMonday, April 28 with a themethat was chosen by the StudentGreen Team, said Snyder.

The team chose Seed, Soil,Soul.

Snyder said the theme ties to-gether the most basic dimensionsof human reality: we are soil andsoul, body and spirit, co-mingled

as a germinating seed. The Earth Week commit-

tee worked to plan eventsthat appeal to the di-

verse college com-munity, including

student, faculty and adminis-

tration, said Analida

Braeger,

Chair

of Earth Week.Braeger worked with the Stu-

dent Green Team and multiplefaculty members in preparationfor the Earth Week events.

The coming together of the various disciplines of the collegehas been a very rewarding experi-ence, Braeger said.

We at Mercyhurst have anincredible pool of resources and

people who are willing to help. Allyou have to do is ask.Sophomore Milly Parker said

she thinks the event will be asuccess.

I think its a good idea, Parkersaid. It gives people a goodchance to participate.

Earth Week participants canenjoy a wide-range of eventsthroughout the week including a

tea ceremony and dance perfor-mance, a paper-making workshopand a hike through WintergreenGorge.

Like in previous years, ourcelebrations will be crowned by two events that honor the sacred-ness of the Earth, Snyder said.

One such event is the EarthDay celebration on April 22.

The day consists of an inter-

faith service led by Rev. LytaSeddig followed by a clean-upof the mouth of Millcreek, ledby the Colleges Sustainability Coordinator, Cathy Pedler.

The second event is the Sr.Maura Smith Earth Day Lecture,held on April 28 and given by Sr.Miriam MacGillis.

Its all about reconnecting with the earth; learning about,enjoying and honoring that

which we take for granted andtake advantage of in everything

we do mother earth, Snydersaid.

We hope that students willrealize that Earth Day is not justone day a year it should be ev-ery day of the year. If studentsbegin to realize this they will be-gin to lead happier, more gratefuland more sustainable lives.

NEWSPAGE 2 April 16, 2008

Earth Week EventsApril 21 - April 28

Monday, April 21 - 7 p.m. Tea Ceremony in the TaylorLittle Theatre including a pre-sentation by Keiko Miller anda dance performance presentedby Solveig Santillano and theMercyhurst Dancers

Tuesday, April 22 - 4:15 p.m. An Earth Day interfaith serviceled by the Rev. Lyta Seddig atthe Munson Plaza followed by a clean-up of the mouth of Millcreek led by Cathy Pedler. Wednesday, April 23 - 4-6 p.m. Hunger banquet led by studentGreen Team members in theMercy Heritage Room. Thursday, April 24 - 4:30 p.m. Lecture in the Mercy HeritageRoom titled, Environmental

Well-Being: Ecological Design for Wicked Problems, presented by Dr. Robert Mugerauer, professorof urban design, planning andarchitecture at the University of

Washington.

Friday, April 25 - 4-6 p.m.Zurn 121

A papermaking workshop led by Camille Nischal in Zurn 121. Allsupplies will be provided.

Saturday, April 26 - 11 a.m.Dr. Mike Campbell will lead theHike for Haiku event, including a

walk through Wintergreen Gorgeidentifying various species of plantsand owers. Students will later writea Haiku poem based on their expe-rience. Bring a bag lunch. Monday, April 28 - 7:30 p.m.Mercy Heritage Room

The Sr. Maura Smith Earth Day Lecture, Foundations for aSustainable Future: Cosmology,

A Sense of Place and the

Sacred, will be presented by Sr.Miriam MacGillis.

Mercyhursts Earth Day lasts a week By Casey GreeneManaging editor


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PAGE 3NEWSApril 16, 2008

Learn More.Continue your studies in a graduateor post-baccalaureate program.

OPEN HOUSE

At the corner of 34th and Wallace Streets,in the former Sts. Peter and Paul School

Cant make it to the Open House?

The Mercyhurst CollegeEnglish department and mem-bers of the student publication,

The Lumen, took the time this week to celebrate what they love: literature.

The sixth annual Literary Fes-

tival that takes place April 10 to April 24, included many eventsthat allowed students to engagein literary works of both theirown and those of well-knownguests.

Dr. Kenneth Schiff, an Eng-lish department faculty memberand Lumen advisor, coordinatedthe festival.

Terry Bisson, an award-win-

ning science fiction author was the first speaker of theevent.

On April 10, Bisson gavestudents insight from hisexperience as a publishedauthor.

Its fun to be here, he said.Its a great campus, wherestudents are alert, attentive andinteresting people.

Joy Harjo, a Native Americanpoet and musician, performed areading and played a saxophoneon Tuesday evening.

Harjo has published 10 booksof poetry and written otherbooks as well.

In addition to writing, shehas recorded CDs of her ownmusic.

Being exposed to writers and

literary culture is an importantreason why students are here,Schiff staid.

The authors also participatedin a creative writing workshopthat was free and open to stu-dents to work one-on-one withthe authors.

It is wonderful that theschool is willing and able tosupport this kind of a festival

and it is great for students tohave the opportunity to meetsuch outstanding artists,Harjosaid.

The nal event of the festival on April 24, is the annualunveiling of the Lumen, whichis Mercyhursts undergraduatecreative arts magazine.

The magazine is comprisedof submissions from students

and faculty in the areas of writ-ing, photography and graphicdesign.

Being introduced this year isan interactive CD as well, willinclude clips from all the artistic

venues on campus, such as clipsfrom the dance, music and artdepartments as well.

Sophomore Nadine Beresattended the unveiling of the

Lumen last year and looksforward to attending again thisyear.

I really enjoyed hearing andreading students work. It wasnice to see all the wonderfultalent here at Mercyhurst,Beres said.

John Ladd, editor-in-chief of the Lumen, is helping to coordi-

nate the reception.Ladd thinks that the Lumen

is a great way to display thecreative talents of Mercyhurststudents.

The various student art-ists on campus have cometogether to create what I believeis an incredible showcase of the wonderful artistic talentthat exists here at Mercyhurst,

Ladd said.During the unveiling, studentawards will be announced forthose who included work in theLumen. The awards consist of cash prizes and certicates forthe recipients.

A n o t h e r a w a r d t h a t will be announced is the P.Barry McAndrew Essay in

Literature Award.Ladd said the Literary Fes-

tival has always been one of his favorite events of the yearat Mercyhurst and thinks thatmany students here do not real-ize how unique it is.

We are very fortunate thatthe college brings not one, buttwo excellent writers here every year to share their work with

us. Its something that doesnthappen just anywhere, Laddsaid.

The reception will include achance for students to read theirown works through an open micsession.

Free copies of the Lumen willbe provided and the interactiveCD will be shown.

By Julie HranicaStaff writer

Hurst kicks off Literary Festival

Police log Liquor Law ViolationMercy 200

April 7College discipline

Criminal Mischeif Parking Lot 1

April 9Closed

Harassment3907 Lewis


Larceny/TheftParking Lot 2

April 9Pending investigation

Driving Under the InuenceEast Main Drive



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PAGE 4 NEWS April 16, 2008

[Editors note: The following story was rst reported on the Merciad Web site Sunday at 1:30 p.m.]

The prize for seniors who got

nominated for one of Mercy-hurst Colleges four top gradu-ation awards was to get theiracademic information postedon the Internet.

Any individual looking to see who was nominated for seniorawards could easily access therecords of 55 nominees that in-cluded their GPA and the namesof the nominators.

The site, https://secure.mer-cyhurst.edu/senior_awards/,listed students by name underthe individual award categories.

The awards include the CarpeDiem Award, Frank Barry Lead-ership Award, Sr. Carolyn Her-rmann Service Award and Cath-

erine McAuley Adult Student Award.

The site, which had been upsince March 28, was blockedto public access on April 13at 1:24 p.m., Sheila Coon said,the colleges director of mar-keting.

The students records were

PDF les found on an unse-cured server on the Mercyhurst Web site.

The files were discoveredafter a student searched se-nior awards Mercyhurst onGoogle.

Mercyhurst College Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs Meredith Schultz saidGoogle created cached pages

of the site after gathering theinformation.

A cached page, according to Googleguide.com, is when,Google takes a snapshot of each page it examines and cach-es (stores) that version as aback-up.

In a statement released by the college, initial reports sug-gest Google foll owed linksto the site from the Googletoolbar.

Schultz said the college placeda request to Google on April13 to take those pages off theirsearch engine.

She said the turn around timeis usually 24 to 48 hours.Senior Marissa Starin, one of

the students nominated for anaward, said she wants her privateinformation secured and not foreveryone to see.

I dont think anyone elseshould have access to this, andonly those who are picking thisaward need access, she said.

I think this is a personal thing and I dont think the people whonominated you were expecting you to nd out.

Coon said the college launchedthe site in an effort to conservepaper.

We did this in an effort to go

green, Coon said. It was so thecommittee would not have to gothrough and review papers.

Coon said in the past, thesenior awards committee wouldreceive a lot of paperwork re-lated to the nominees, and the

Web site was a way to work onconservation.

The college issued a state-ment on April 13 explaining the error.

Upon learning early Sunday afternoon that informationabout senior awards nominees

was publicly accessible on the Web, the Mercyhurst CollegeOfce of Marketing and PublicRelations took immediate actionto have the site removed, reads

the statement.At marketings request, the

Web administrator removed thesite on the www.mercyhurst.edu Web where the Ofce of

Academic Affairs had request-ed that nomination forms andthe list of nominated seniors

PDFs for the different awards beposted. This site was developedonly for nominating commit-tee access. It was not intendedthat this information be madepublic.

Coon said the colleges infor-mation technology department is

working to create a password-se-

cured site for the information.We had a meeting with ITand those types of security measures (password protection)

will be in place on the site,she said.

Coon said no nancial infor-mation or personal Web Advisorinformation was made availableto the public on the site.

She said letters were sent to all

seniors affected by the privacy breach.

Schultz apologizes for any inconvenience.

Were doing the best as pos-sible to undo (this), she said.We want to protect studentsas much as we can.

By Joshua WilwohlEditor-in-chief

Web worries: student information exposed

College acts quickly to x problem, protect student privacy

This past weekend the mem-bers of the Pride of Pennsylva-nia ROTC Battalion held theirlast laboratory exercise beforethe nal Field Training Exer-cise which takes place at FortIndiantown Gap in southernPennsylvania.

ROTC worked in conjunc-tion with Pentagon Paintball,a local paintball company lo-cated in Fairview, Pa. to organizethe training.

Freshmen, sophomore andjunior cadets ran throughsquad tactical exercises or STX lanes employing the usage of

paintball guns to add an as-pect of r eal combat to thelearning experience.

Senior cadets took on theresponsibi l i ty of organiz-ing, leading and grading thetraining exercise.

The goal of the training wasto familiarize the cadets withthe tactical aspects of leader-ship and to help them cope

with the stress of leading troopsunder re.

The training permitted cadetsto practice emergency medicalprocedures on cadets who wereshot during the course of thetraining.

These procedures includedfashioning splints for brokenbones, application of eld dress-

ings and building stretchers outof materials on hand for carry-ing wounded soldiers.

Members of the Pride of PaBattalion took on a land navi-gation course designed by Cdt.Dean Johnson, a Mercyhurstsenior, which proved challeng-ing for many of them.

With the advent of GPS sys-tems many soldiers have cometo rely too heavily on techno-logical advances to aid themin combat.

The purpose of the landnavigation course was to fur-ther instill map reading andlensatic compass usage-whichhave proven to be crucial soldierskills even in the current operat-ing environment.

By Jeff AllenContributing writer

ROTC cadets use paintball as a learning experience

The ROTC cadets used paintball to simulate eld combat andto practice emergency medical procedures.

Contributed photo


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NEWSPAGE 6 April 16, 2008

Student government lls positions

New MSG positions are lledafter two series of secret-ballotelections.

The last portion of Mondays

Mercyhurst Student Govern-ment (MSG) meeting was spent voting on the positions of Stu-dent Activities Council Chair,Public Relations Coordinatorand MSG Events Coordinator.

Recommended by the MSGExecutive Board for the jobof SAC Chair was VictoriaFleisner.

The executive board rec-

ommended former MSG vicepresident, junior Mihailo Jova-novic, to the position of publicrelations coordinator.

President of MSG, seniorChristina Coovert, motioned toapprove both candidates for thejob, however, a majority of themembers from the MSG oorcommittee motioned to voteseparately on the candidates.

Sophomore MSG representa-tive, Marissa Petroff, said, I was

surprised that the body did notagree with the recommenda-tions.

MSG Vice President DinorahSanchez approved body mem-bers request that the voting be done by means of secretballots.

Twenty-seven body members,including Student ActivitiesCouncil Chair senior Kelly Cofrancisco, participated in therst two elections for Fleisnerand Jovanovic.

Fleisner secured her recom-mended position as SAC Chairafter receiving an overwhelming 26 votes.

Junior representative Haylie

Starin said she was very pleased with the outcome.

I worked with Vicky for twoyears on SAC and I know she

will do an amazing job becauseshe has great organizationalskills and work ethic, she said.

She also has some great vi-sions of SAC for next year.

Jovanovic was able to clinchhis recommended PR coordina-

tor position with 16 votes. A majority vote of 14 was

necessary to secure the candi-dates positions in both elec-tions.

Junior Representative, Erik Penn, was not surprised at thecloseness of the election.

People do not always votefor the best interests of their

constituents and they are notas informed as they should be,nor do they take the initiative,Penn said.

Even though Jovanovic re-ceived applause from the ma-jority of the MSG body, severalbody members were displeased

with the outcome.Members stated at the meeting

that the vote was biased since

Jovanovic already held a positionon the executive board.

In defense of the position, Jo- vanovic stated he had created asix-page document of his futureideas and plans as PR coordina-tor for anyone with questions orconcerns.

He thanked all those who voted for him and assured those who did not that he will

prove them wrong. The nal series of the nights

elections was between juniorrepresentative Zachary Pekorand former MSG secretary sophomore Jacquelynne Brownfor MSG events coordinator.

Coovert said after a four-hourboard meeting on Sunday eve-ning, they came to a tie decision

between the two candidatesand agreed to hand over thenal decision to the membersof MSG.

Each candidate was notiedof the boards decision and askedto present a short speech at theMSG meeting stating their previ-ous accomplishments, positionsand future plans if elected.

Before voting, Sanchez mo-

tioned to discuss the candidates.Each candidate was allowed fourpoints or comments given by body members.

Twenty-six secret ballots werecast with the absence of Pekor.

While in the process of count-ing the ballots, the executiveboard members left the StudentUnion Chamber room for a ve-minute recess.

Only the executive boardmembers have the capability and

privilege to count the ballots,Penn said.

Brown won the majority voteof 15 with Pekor receiving 11

votes.Consequently, a variety of

emotions permeated the roomfrom candidates and body mem-

bers.Sophomore representative,Celeste Shefferly, said she wish-es those elected would display themselves in a better light.

I wish that the people run-ning for the leadership positions

would have held themselves bet-ter, shown better integrity andbetter character than what they did, she said.

Penn expressed concern.The lack of organization

of the meeting along with thetension among members on anexecutive and board level arealready beginning to shake thefoundation of the new consti-tution (and) raising questionsof peoples competences andmotivations, he said.

This is turning people against

those that they once might havecalled friends.

By Liz MaierStaff writer

Before Mercyhurst Collegeseniors put on their caps andgowns and say goodbye toMercyhurst, they have one lastopportunity to celebrate withtheir classmates.

Seniors have a short time leftto pick up tickets to the WalkerSchool of Business Senior For-mal being held on Saturday,

April 26.This type of event is so spe-

cial and unique, junior Katie

Waldin said. It is a great way for seniors to have one lastnight with their friends beforegraduation to dress up, dance,enjoy great food and have agreat evening.

Waldin is in charge of theevent this year and said sheexpects a good turn out at theformal.

After having such a suc-cessful rst formal last year wehave high expectations for thisyear and we want to give theseniors everything they deserveafter four years of hard work,

Waldin said.

A three-course meal, snacksand cake will all be offered,

Waldin said.Beef tenderloin, Boursin

chicken and grouper along withroasted red potatoes, vegetablesand ice cream Florentine will beavailable.

Senior Christine Mersch at-tended the event last year.

Last year it was so suc-cessful, said Mersch. I hadso much fun with all of my friends and the people I went

with. A DJ will be at the event and

senior HRIM, business and

communications awards willbe given out throughout thenight.

Last year was great getting to go and help out as a junior,senior Matt Ferris said. I am soexcited to be going with all of my friends this year before wegraduate.

Waldin said she recommendsstudents buy their tickets soonerrather than later.

Thursday, April 17 is the lastday to purchase tickets to theevent.

Tickets are being sold in thebusiness school from 11 a.m.

2 p.m. for $30. They can also be purchased in

Preston 308 until 4 p.m.I am really looking forward

to this year and the new placethat they are having the formal,Mersch said.

This years event will be heldat the Kahkwa Club in Fairview from 6:30-11:30 p.m.

Transportation to and fromthe event will be provided andis mandatory.

Seniors can catch the busat the gates in front of OldMain at 5:45 p.m., 5:55 p.m.and 6 p.m.

By Casey GreeneManaging editor

Second Annual business formal to be held

Secret ballots to elect SAC chair, PR coordinator, events coordinator


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NEWS PAGE 7April 16, 2008

Hurst students help stop hate

This year over 30 studentstook their stand against thehatred that plagues college cam-puses nationwide.

Wednesday, students and fac-ulty gathered for the unveiling of the winners of the third annual

Stop the Hate Poster Contest. The poster contest is intendedto creatively convey a mes-sage of tolerance and commu-nity through an original artisticmedium.

Cash prizes of $500, $200 and$100, respectively, are awardedto the top three winners of thecontest.

In front of a large crowd in the

Great Room of the HerrmannStudent Union, Erie Mayor Joseph Sinnott extended hisgratitude toward students who

were willing to take a stand andmake a difference.

Work like this gets themessage out to educate young people, Sinnott said.

Mercyhurst College PresidentDr. Thomas Gamble spoke

words of praise to students who were involved in the campus- wide campaign against hostility.

The eager crowd waitedfor the announcement of the

winners. Almost every seat was lled

with contestants, faculty andstudents who rallied behind a

valiant cause.Even students who had not

entered work in this years con-test gathered to hear the topthree announced.

I believe the students hereat Mercyhurst are all very sup-portive and respectful of eachother, but that does not alwaysmean there will not be angerand aggression in some circum-stances, senior Allison McCaslinsaid. These posters are a great

way to spread the word and atleast reduce hostilities, so I amjust excited to see which ones

win.Stop the Hate Contest orga-

nizer and Assistant Directorof Residence Life and StudentConduct Dara Zirkle said this

was another incredible year forthe Stop the Hate Campaign.

This has been the best yearyet, because of so many sub-missions, she said. I hopeeverybody had the opportunity

to walk around and look at allthe fantastic work.

First-place winners Brittany

Jeffords and Megan Rasmussen,sophomores, said they were very pleased with the outcome andcheck for $500.

We had originally started working on this poster as acompetition with some friendsjust for the fun of it, but once

we really sat down to think, werealized the true atrocities andhorric acts that people must

face every day, Jeffords said.We just kept things simplebecause the message needs to beclear-cut and strong.

Rasmussen said she agreed.She said she was equally pleased

with taking rst, not because of the money, but the change they are helping to make.

Second place winners, juniorMixa Jovanovic and senior Kelly

Cofrancisco, said they werepleased with their joint work,

which aimed to pull at the deep-est emotions of the heart.

I had approached Kelly forthis project because of hersuperior graphic design skills andartistic touch for things, Jova-novic said. I really support thisprogram and the message...

Equally pleased with their

accomplishment, Cofranciscosaid she felt her skill could bestbe utilized for good and promot-

ing a better environment.Last years poster was brighter

and more colorful, but we real-ized that hate isnt always pretty and is sometimes masked withdarkness and fear, which inspiredour design for this years work,she said.

Jovanovic said they movedfrom idealistic to realistic.

Senior Mitchell Phillis took third place and a $100 prize for his

vivid and powerful submission.

I was aiming for rst placethis year, because last year I hadtaken second and wanted to seeif I could outdo myself, Phillissaid. Last years submission wasmore spontaneous and jumbledtogether than this one. When-ever I had a good idea I wrote itdown and worked with it until Itweaked everything just the way

I wanted it.Posters are currently on dis-

play in the Student Union.

By Tim HuckoStaff writer

Sophomores Brittany Jeffords and Megan Rasmussenreceived rst place for their poster and check for $500.

Scoot Williams photo

Mercyhurst College StudentGovernment (MSG) has part-nered with the administration topass the proposal for the instal-lation of an emergency towerspilot program.

The emergency towers, oftenreferred to as a blue light sys-tem, consists of poles strategi-cally located around campus inorder for students or visitors

of the campus to use if they feel they are in danger or needemergency assistance.

The recommendation hasbeen sent to Dr. Billingsley fornal approval, Mercyhurst Col-lege Director of Safety RodgerGregorich said. He as indicatedto me that the proposal will likely be approved for the installationof wired and wireless towersover this summer.

As the plan nears nalization,many factors have been takeninto account.

The placement of the towershas remained in debate withResLife, Police and Safety andthe administration making sug-gestions, since the resurrectionof the tower proposal began.

The locations are to be furtherassessed and narrowed down

with input from all parties, inorder to be able to install ve toeight towers.

A campus map with the ideallocations provided by Police andSafety indicated their suggestionsfor eight possible tower locations

and 46 cameras, ranking by levelof need.

Six of the eight emergency tower locations are on the eastside of campus, spanning WayneStreet buildings to Briggs Avenuebuildings. The two other loca-tions are by the Mercyhurst Ath-letic Center and Garvey Park.

The wired tower locations willdepend on a ground-source of electricity which also will remaina factor.

However, some of the towers will feature a wireless capability

,which means they will be pow-ered via solar panels.

These wireless towers aregreen compliant, working withthe school to achieve ener-gy efficiency to the best of its abilities.

The maintenance departmenthas recently been asked to installthe towers.

If maintenance can install thethem, this would cut the overallcost and allow for the schoolto possibly acquire and installmore towers.

By Ashley PastorStaff writer

Mercyhurst nalizes blue light system


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PAGE 8 FEATURES April 16, 2008

Need to boost yourresume?

The Merciad is looking for aFeatures editor for2008-2009.

If interested, e-mailmgeditormerciad@

mercyhurst.edu

Rising travel prices burden students

Living out of state can poseproblems for students who arenot from the Erie area.

Not only is it a pain for them tomove all of their belongings in tocampus housing at the beginning of every fall term, but leaving campus at the end of the yearcreates a challenge, as well.

For those of us who live a nicecar ride away, we may underesti-mate the simplicity of packing upour lives every year and driving away in May.

But what would you do if youhad to y home?

Obviously for those studentsliving out of the country, they have to pick and choose the mostimportant belongings to take

with them when they come and

leave school. When flying home, you can

only pack so much into one suit-case before you have reached themaximum capacity.

It is easy to take a few cars oreven a couple of trips back andforth if you are not traveling that far. Junior Dinorah Sanchez is

from Baytown, Texas, and seesthe difculty in trying to y homefor the summer.

Due to my lack of a vehicle,my only option is to y home,and I would consider driving to be cheaper, but as a result of the rising gas prices, ying is be-coming a better venue, Sanchezsaid. I would assume students

would be affected by the closureof ai rlines planes, especially more economic options such as

Southwest.

With the costs of taking aight to and from hometowns,and with the rising gas prices,

will students be more likely toy or drive?

On average for me to fly home, a roundtrip ticket costs me$300 to $350, Sanchez said.

Obviously for trips such astraveling to California, the choiceis clear, unless you want to spendyour entire summer driving across the country. And for those who are for-

tunate enough to live in theCleveland or Pittsburgh areas, Ithink we all know for what they

will opt for.But, for the rest of us, I guess

we will simply have to watch thegas prices and hope that if it be-comes too expensive, airlines willhave something better to offer.

By Stacey MinchinStaff writer

With gas prices rising, traveling students must decide the most affordable way to get home.

asapblogs.typepad.com

Wave the baton too slowly and the orchestra arrayed onthe screen plays the William

Tell Overture at a crawl. Waveit too fast and the music gal-lops away.

But would-be Leonard Ber-nsteins who wave the remotecontrol correctly as they try out UBS Virtual Maestro canexperience a small part of whatits like to be a conductor.

Theres an educational com-ponent to it. But its also a lot

of fun. We think its sort of like the orchestra version of Guitar Hero, the video game,said Peter Dillon, who handlescorporate sponsorships in theUnited States for Swiss banking giant UBS. Two UBS Virtual Maestro

exhibits have been appearing in concert-hall lobbies acrossthe country since November

as part of a project created by UBS, which often sponsorsclassical music events and or-ganizations, to increase interestin classical music. A similar game called Youre

the Conductor, also created by

Nakra, opened in a permanentexhibit at the Childrens Mu-seum of Boston in 2003. The games are intended to

mimic the feel of conducting areal orchestra, Nakra said.

Thats the way classical mu-sic creates a sense of emotion.In the ebb and ow of the beattheres a real ow of emotion,she said.

The experience the conduc-tor games offer is less complexthan that of Guitar Hero andRock Band, in which playersusing simplied versions of dif-ferent instruments earn pointsby correctly playing popularsongs.

For now, the game can beplayed only at concert halls onits tour itinerary.

Guitar Herohits new levelBy Chris Newmarker

Accociated Press


9/24

PAGE 9FEATURESApril 16, 2008

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How to work and not hate your job

The alarm goes off and youinstantly feel the dread of the

workday coming over you. As people long in the work-

force tend to say, theres nothing worse than hating your job.

Forty or more years of lousy work is surely one way to bring down a persons joy.

More and more studies areshowing that many people, infact, hate their jobs.

So for those of us preparing to graduate college and enter thereal world, it is important to nda job that you really enjoy.

While the necessity of working to support oneself is critical, the

other element of actually liking and taking pride in ones work is equally important for bothlongevity and mental healthreasons.

Experts say that stress is onemajor cause of many health-related problems for both menand women.

Frustration and boredom in acareer can also pose a problemfor an employee.

A new book titled How to BeUseful is geared toward provid-ing advice on getting out of a

work rut and boosting moodsof workers everywhere.

Some tips offered in the book include the following:

Consider yourse l f se l f -employed.

Although most people report

to a higher authority, it is empow-ering to remember that youessentially work for yourself.

The work you do is what keepsyou aoat. Work toward yourgoals and try not to fret aboutunnecessary workroom drama.

Play dress up. Dress for thejob that you want, not the jobthat you have.

Ta k i n g p r i d e i n t h e i rappearances actually makespeople work more efficiently,reduces procrastination andgives a mental boost to theself-esteem.

Although there are no doubtplenty of j obs in the worldthat no one would care to take,having a positive attitude about

whatever you do is far better thanfalling into a slump. NBCs The Ofce is a good example of employee strife.

salesandmarketing.com

By Jen GildeaFeatures editor


10/24

FEATURESPAGE 10 April 16, 2008

THE LAKER Spring Term

Galley GrillLunch:M-Ham and Cheese on

CroissantT- Soft TacosW- Potato Bowl

Th- Turkey ReubenF- Sizzle SaladS- Southwest Burger

Board SpecialsLunch $4.75Dinner $5.50

Dinner:S-Laker Burger M- Steak SaladT- Open Face Turkey SandwichW-Slice Of Pizza, 5 WingsTh- Swedish Meatballs w/ NoodlesF- Chicken and BiscuitsS - Cup of Chili w/ Cheese, Side of Nacho Chips

Hours of Operation:Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m.Saturday 1:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m.Sunday 5:00 p.m.-1:00 a.m .

Look for New Menu Items!Mac & Cheese Bites Black Bean Burger New Salads:

Chicken BLT-Veggie(no cheese)-Spinach-Asian Chicken-Greek-Caesar

Subconnection6 Sub $3.75 Combo $4.75

12Sub $5.75 Combo $6.75

Baja and Buffalo Chicken Subs:6 Sub $4.00 Combo $5.2512 Sub $6.00 Combo $ 7.00

Special Features Wrap combo-Veggie $5.59

other wraps $5.79Wrap It Yourself- Veggie $3.99

other wraps $ 4.19

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

Laker ExpressBoard Equivalency Available:11:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m.Board SpecialsLunch $4.75Dinner $5.50

Look for Laker ExpressMinute Meals!

Hours of Operation:Mon.-Thurs. 11:30 a.m.-8:00 p.m.Friday 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.Saturday & Sunday Closed

A new service offered by Amazon.com lets shoppers pur-chase items by text messages oncell phones.

The phone phenomenon thatis text messaging has becomecross-generational as well as acommon way of communicat-ing, so big business saw anopportunity.

Senior Cassandra Meier saysthat texting has become a majorpart of communication withpeople.

I probably text a lot morethan I talk on my phone, Meiersaid. Its easier, quicker and tothe point.

According to the article, Ama-zons new program, TextBuyIt,launched last week.

It allows people to text thename of a product, its descrip-tion or its ISBN to a specicnumber.

If Amazon can match theitems, you receive a text back and can select the product by responding in yet another textmessage.

The service asks users to entertheir e-mail address and zip code,then calls users and walks them

through the checkout procedureand payment methods.

The entire process ends with

a confirmation which is sentthrough text message.One important aspect of this

service is that users already haveto be a member to Amazon.com, and possess a login ID andpassword.

This service has many stu-dents thinking that this may bethe beginning of a new way of shopping.

Senior Ashley Flores believesit is exciting.

Texting is something so many people do now, she said. Itseems like this could be a really cool thing.

One may wonder if this new service will catch on with otherbusinesses.

Although Amazon.com ispaving the form, if this new way of shopping catches on then theold may be forgotten.

If they want a product, they may only have to text in orderto get it.

It would be cool if otherstores started having it too,senior Kristin Drake said.

There are sure to be a lot of nuts and bolts to work out, butthe innovative idea has consum-ers excited for the new service.

By Shannon KelleyStaff writer

Going shopping?Try text messaging

Amazon.com now allows users to make purchases via text.dialaphone.co.uk


11/24

Lights, camera, action.Last week, the Mercyhurst Col-

lege fashion merchandising clubput on its fashion show, Rock theCatwalk, which proved to be anentertaining delight for viewersof all ages.

The show featured musicalicons that inspired fashion overthe past 50 years.

The styles of clothing selected

for the show were mostly vintage,although there were modern clas-sics peppered throughout the

attire. Juniors Caroline Boyce, Carly Emery and Francesca Stubberteamed up to run the show.

In the opening commentary,Emery and Boyce delivered aspeech informing the audienceof the purpose of the show,

which beneted the Erie Wom-ens Shelter.

Emery eloquently quoted

anoted fashion and music icon

Gwen Stefani to tie togetherthe theme of the show, saying,music and fashion all come

from the same place of creativ-ity. The show started off with a

few Madonna inspired looks.One of her past 80s-inspired

looks that was featured in theshow included her notoriouspink tulle skirt paired with long black gloves.

Another model demonstrateda more modern version of the

icon by donning a white suit and

pant ensemble. Judging by the crowds roaring

applause, the Spice Girls were

a popular iconic group in theshow.Inspiration was drawn from

all ve members of the notedBritish pop group.

Male models sported equally entertaining looks that rangedfrom Elton John to Bob Marley to Snoop Dogg.

Elton Johns looks were anothercrowd pleaser.

Two of his signature styles

were modeled, one including abright yellow feather boa andspotted white fur coat.

Reggae artist Marley elicitedthe spirit and clothing trends of the 60s, complete with lots of tie-dye attire.

Student models also channeledone noted teen heartthrob boy band of the past: the BackstreetBoys.

A few select models worepristine, all-white garments andeven performed to audience

members.Emery made a nal comment

on the production at the end of the show.

The overall outcome of theshow was awesome, she said.The models did an excellentjob by projecting enthusiasmand excitement. It seemed likethe audience picked up on thisenergy and really enjoyed theperformance.

Overall, the venture raisedover $350 for the Erie WomensShelter.

Boyce agreed on the successof the show.

We raised quite a bit of money for a great organization, shesaid. We are so happy that wecould have such a great timeputting together a fundraiser forsuch a good cause.

PAGE 11FEATURESApril 16, 2008

Mercyhurst IT DepartmentResident Technician (ResTech) position

Start Fall 2008$2000 stipend

Assist students at Helpdesk or in Student Residence halls with PC/Network problems

Apply by printing, completing and returning the form located athttp://lakernet.mercyhurst.edu/attach/restechapplication.pdf

Or call x3301 for more information

Return the form to: Helpdesk, PRESTON 15

Application deadline: April 25, 2008

Music icons Rock the CatwalkBy Sandy WatroStaff writer

Student models show fashion inspirations from the Spice Girls.Contributed photo

Freshman Justin Bukowski rocks out to Aerosmith.Contributed photo


12/24

PAGE 12 FEATURES

Food Fix W ith Me g I

ERI

Get to know...

Erin Manganello

Macaroni Salad

Directions

Ingredients

Contributed photo

April 16, 2008

Blast from the pastBy Shelley Turk Staff writer

A tradition of Erie summersare the warm beaches and park trails of Presque Isle.

Now that the weather is warm-ing up students, teachers, fellow Erie natives and their families areooding the picturesque site.

The entrance of the park ishome to Saras and Sallys Res-taurants.

Opened since 1980, Saras andhas been serving up seasonalfavorites in a retro, 1950s dinersetting.

Owner and operator SeanCandela said Saras prides itself on good food, reasonable pricesand a fun atmosphere.

Favorites at the diner includehomemade onion rings starting at $2.49, Smiths hotdogs, andorange vanilla twist sherbet.

Saras offers cones, milkshakesand sundaes to cool you downafter a hot day in Erie.

If youre looking to energizeyourself with a quick meal beforehitting the beach, stop in anddress your hotdog or burger withthe great xings like homemadechili plus a side of fries.

Sallys Diner, adjacent to Saras,is only open for overow seating,but has the same ambience andcharm.

Mercyhurst juniors Haylie Sta-

rin and Heather Schwager enjoy dining at Saras.

Saras is a great place to goafter playing sand volleyball at

the beach, Starin said. I lovethe food and the milkshakes areamazing.

Schwager agreed.Saras is one of my favorite

restaurants in Erie, she said.Its a nice place to eat while

relaxing outside with my friendsafter spending the day at PresqueIsle.

Be sure to look forward tothe new outdoor ordering sec-tion with screened-in pop andcondiments.

This will give patrons four dif-ferent ways of ordering: inside,outside, at the ice cream screenand the drive-thru window.

Saras is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and afterMemorial Day from 10:30 a.m.to 10 p.m.

Saras is located at the entrance to Presque Isle State Park.

1 package macaroni, uncooked8 hard-boiled eggs, sliced1 medium onion, chopped10 oz. relish1 tablespoon yellow mustard

1 cup mayonnaiseSalt & pepper, to tastePaprika, to taste

1.) Cook the macaroni according to thedirections on the package and drain.

2.) In a large bowl mix the cooledpasta, eggs, onion and the relish togetheruntil they are distributed evenly.

3.) Then mix in the mustard and may-onnaise until everything is evenly coated.Finally, season with salt, pepper and pa-prika depending on your tastes.

The weather is changing andthat means the season for picnics

with friends is right around thecorner.

There are many opportunitiesfor friends to get together andshare a fun time, whether it isat Presque Isle or at the pavil-ions located between Lewis andBriggs Avenues.

The best way to hold a picnicis to have potluck-style eating

where everyone brings some-thing to share with the group.

Here is a recipe for a crowdpleaser that is easy to make, as well as very tasty.

There are many versions of macaroni salad that can be made,but this one is outstanding.

It feeds a lot of people andgoes great with all those otherfavorite picnic foods, including hamburgers, hot dogs, grilledchicken, potato salad and fruitsalad.

-Meghan Dolney

Name : Erin Manganello Year

: SeniorMajor : Graphic DesignHometown : Buffalo, N.Y.Favorite thing about Mercyhurst :

Springfest and Calamaris Squid Row Least favorite thing : When they send

a minivan instead of a bus at 2 a.m. on aSaturday morning


13/24

PAGE 13ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

tHe

BuZz APRIL 18. Musical.Spring Awakening.Center for the Arts, Uni-

versity of Buffalo, Buf-falo.

APRIL 18. Billy Joel. Mel-lon Arena, Pittsburgh.

APRIL 19. Joe Jackson.Carnegie Library Mu-sic Hall of Homestead,Munhall, Pa.

APRIL 19. BamboozleRoadshow with Saves theDay, Armor for Sleep,more. House of Blues,Cleveland.

Courtesy of Goerie.com

April 16, 2008

Juno, the Academy Awardnominated lm, is best knownfor being full of witty, sarcasticone-liners to bring a brighter sideto teenage pregnancy.

The movie is also known inthe music community for hav-ing a very eclectic mix of indieand punk rock artists gracing itssoundtrack.

Let us just imagine for a min-ute, what soundtrack wouldsound like had Juno not beenso humorous and upbeat. As youcould probably imagine, it wouldsound rather depressing.

Neva Dinova, natives of Oma-ha, Neb., would no doubt have afew tracks on thesoundtrack.

For proof, just take a listen totheir newest release, You May

Already Be Dreaming. The third studio album from

the band is their best work yet. The album has something foreveryone, without being a radio-friendly, lets-just-get-paid typealbum.

Do you like Johnny Cashsdeep voice and somber melo-dies? If so, then the rst track of Dreaming is sure to be inyour favorite songs play-list oniTunes.

Love From Below is astripped-down acoustic track

with powerful, yet dismal vocalsand lyrics.

Clouds, the third track of 14on the album, has a blues-rock feel that fans of anyone fromPink Floyd to Stevie Ray Vaughn,

would enjoy. Thick guitar tonesand vocals full of reverb are

reminiscent of mellow rock inthe 1970s.

What You Want deliversa similar sound to Led Zep-pelin, The Who, and other rock legends.

The new album was releasedon April 8, marking its fourthdisc the band has written. Pre-

vious discs include The Hate Yourself Change (SideCho2005), S/T (Crank! 2001), anda split EP with indie icons BrightEyes entitled One Jug of Wine,

Two Vessels. At rst listen, the album may

seem like a depressing look intothe soul of a troubled man.

However, further explorationof the lyrics and music within thealbum reveals a message of hopein a lost world.

Take nothing at face value onthis album; it is not what it seemson the surface.

Your subconscious will nodoubt ght with itself to unravel

the meaning of every line, every melody and harmony.

Though a simple, no-frillssound is what Neva Dinovaachieves on this record, the sameis not true for the lyrics.

One listen to this album is notenough to grasp the complexity and depth of what can be re-ferred to as poetry and music.

The band is currently on toursupporting the new album withco-headliners Ladyhawk throughthe rest of April, all of May andinto June.

The tour mainly hits the Mid- west, New England, and thesouth, with a few stops on the

west coast. If you are a fan of relaxing, artistic indie rock, NevaDinova will be your new favoriteband. Be sure to head over tomyspace.com/nevadinova to

sample a few tracks off the new album.

By Greg Summy

Staff writer

Neva Dinova: You May Already Be Dreaming

Students will perform Fran-cis Poulencs opera Dialogues

of the Carmelites at the Mary DAngelo Performing ArtsCenter.

Poulencs opera is based onthe true story of Carmelitenuns who were sentenced todie by the guillotine for refus-ing to stop wearing their habitsand meeting in groups during the anti-Catholic movementof the French Revolution. The

only surviving Carmelite nun, who was away in Paris while theothers were martyred, narratesthe events within a memoir.

Dialogue of the Carmelitesspecically follows the develop-ment of one nun, Blanche de laForce, as she makes a spiritualjourney and transforms froma frightened woman to a bravemartyr.

Lucille Jonason, chair of the

Mercyhurst Music Departmentand director for the opera,said she had a few reasons forchoosing this opera. Jonasonsaw Dialogues of the Carmel-ites in performance many years

ago and was struck by its power,especially the stunning ending in which the nuns sing SalveRegina as they head to the guil-lotine and the stream of voicesslowly diminishes as the nunsare beheaded.

Jonason dedicated the perfor-mance to Sister Helen Jean Sulli-

van, who has run the DAngeloConservatory of music formany years and performedDialogues while a student atthe New England Conserva-tory. In addition, this opera wasa good choice because she hadmore female than male voicesto work with, and Dialoguesof the Carmelites has a pre-dominantly female cast with 18

women and eight men. This production required

much work because opera is

not an amateur art form, Jona-son said.

Jonason invited four alumnito mentor the students for theproduction of the opera. Thesestudents will appear in one of

the performances.Because Mercyhursts opera

program allows the singers togain experience in perform-ing full-length operas with anorchestra, many of the MusicDepartments past studentshave had great success at thegraduate level and in their pro-fessional careers.

Were proud of our programbecause it has had such goodresults, and its really nice tohave alumni here to mentor thecurrent students, Jonason said.

One of the great challengesof putting on an opera with stu-dents was coordinating sched-ules for rehearsal.

I have not yet been ableto get all 16 nuns together fora rehearsal, because betweennight classes, RA duties and

everything else, everyone is justso busy, explained Jonason.I just hope to have them alltogether opening night, shesaid jokingly.

Jonason explained that

because opera incorporates allthe arts, setting such a work canbe a tedious process. The chore-ography is especially signicantfor Dialogues of the Carmel-ites because the nuns oftenappear as metaphorical guresdepicting memories or thoughtsand their formations delineatemuch of the symbolism.

I am thankful to be able toteach in an academic institu-tion that supports the arts. In somany cases, artists are forced togo out into the world in searchof a venue in which to create, soit is nice to be able to do it hereat home, Jonason said.

Rachel Myers, who will sing the role of Blanche in the opera,said of the experience, Theinspiring nature of the actualstory of the Carmelite nuns

and the challenge of learning athrough composed score are

what made doing this show soextraordinarily rewarding. I amreally honored to play a role inDialogues.

The Dialogues of the Car-melites opera is a beautifulproduction of elegance, history,bravery, and above all, emotion.It has been an exquisite edu-cational experience for us all,

with the opportunity to learnfrom our professional peers,

Jacqueline Edford siad. She will appear as Mother Marie.The operas form is a bit of ararity, which is why I believe itto be exceedingly powerful. Theperformance all together willpull tremendously on the heartstrings, especially with the stun-ningly eerie ending.

Performances will takes placeFriday, April 18 and Saturday,

April 19 at 8 p.m. and Sunday, April 20 at 2 p.m. Tickets may be purchased by calling the boxofce at (814) 824-3000.

By Sarah MastrocolaStaff writer

Nun transforms to brave martyr in Dialogues of the Carmelites


14/24

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTPAGE 14 April 16, 2008

AprilAmnesty InternationalBenet Concertoutdoors in the grottorain location in the recreation center

19th 1-7:30pmMatty B and the Dirty PicklesShake It!The JungleKathy Fidorra+more

18th 7-11pmPandemicPegasus UnicornGypsy Dave & The Stumpjumpers

myspace.com/ jamnesty2008

$4or more requested donationFree FoodSaturday

amnestyStop Violence Against WomAlumni Andy Lapiska won Best in Show, two gold awardsand one silver award at the 38th annual Addy Awards.

Contributed photo

The Erie Ad Club and American Advertising Federa-tion Design Awards have beenannounced.

Graphic design students had

another stellar year in 2007. They garnered ve golds, twosilvers, one bronze and Bestin Show for works created in2007.

The 38th Annual Erie AdClub and American Advertising Federation Awards were heldFriday, April 4.Gold winners:

Jenna Matson (08) won for

her card ensemble The Pink Ladies. It is available for pur-chase from AdPro. Please see

Jodi Hopper if interested. Andrew Lapiska (07) won

for the Vegetative Best Manage-ment Practices, A manual forBluff Management written by Marlene Cross, Infographics by

Jodi Staniunas Hopper.Matthew Seifert (08) won for

the 2007 Lumen Poetry Chap-book Print Design. Client is theMercyhurst English Depart-ment and includes selectionsfrom music, dance and art. TheInteractive CD won a Bronzefor Andrew Kochirka (07).Silver:

Mitchell Phillis(08) won for

his card ensemble Men arePigs, which is also availablethrough AdPro.

Michael Temple (09) won forhis art department promotionalbrochure titled Insert_your-self.Best of Show:

Andrew Lapiska (07) won

for the Vegetative Best Manage-ment Practices, A manual forBluff Management written my Marlene Cross, Infographics by

Jodi Staniunas HopperIn addition, the Mercyhurst

College Marketing and PublicRelations department sweptmultiple awards, including Bestof Show for the Interactive Vir-tual Tour.

By Nicole Cerilli A&E editor

Juniors Mike Temple, Nick Marcellino and Jenna Matson, along with senior John Wayner,senior accounting and AdPro treasurer Katherine Juarez, advertising/marketing and AdProSecretary Esther Claros and alumna Megan Sauer celebrated at the pre-award cocktail party

with professional artists and other students.

Contributed photo

Graphic design students receive awards


15/24

PAGE 15OPINIONApril 16, 2008

[Editors note: The Merciad in noway supports any political candidate and tries to represent all sides in a fair way. The Merciad has not received any advertisements from any Repub- lican candidates or they, too, would be

placed in the newspaper. The Merciad does not accept free advertisements,nor does the newspaper solicit for

political advertisements. We attempt,in every way, to give an unbiased view of political issues and any other issues that arise in the Mercyhurst College community.]

William Randolph Hearstsaid of the Spanish-American

War, You furnish the pictures,Ill furnish the war. Mercyhurst

College administrators certainly created a battle of advertise-ments that was a mole hill andbecame a mountain.

The Merciad rst ran a paidpolitical advertisement forthis presidential campaign inits March 19 issue. The ad, anObama for America Changethe World/Register to Vote,struck a chord with Erie Dio-

ceses Bishop Donald Traut-man.Unbeknownst to the Merciad

staff, this advertisement wasgoing against a set of rules pre-

viously set forth by Trautmanin a two-page document aboutpolicies for Catholic publica-tions.

The Merciad said in its previ-ous editorial on March 26 that it

did not feel compelled to follow this policy, explaining that thecollege is not under the directauthority of the bishop.

A week later, MercyhurstPresident Dr. Thomas Gamblesuspended political ads until anadvertising policy was in placefor the Merciad.

The committee regarding theissue of political advertisementsmet twice in the past two weeks.

Editor-in-chief Joshua Wilwohl,next years editor-in-chief Casey Greene and advisor LenoreSkomal of the Merciad are onthe committee. Mercyhurst VicePresident for Student life Dr.Gerry Tobin, Assistant VicePresident for Academic AffairsMeredith Schultz and Directorof Marketing Sheila Coon alsosit on the committee. Collegechaplain Fr. James Piszker and

Vice President for Academic Affairs Dr. Barbara Behan werealso appointed to committeebut were unable to make themeetings. English professor Jeff Roessner and Wilwohl madeonly one meeting.

The committee developed apreliminary policy Monday withthe suggestions of members inthe group.

The Merciad was theninformed by e-mail on Tuesday that the paid political adver-tisement suspension was stillenforced. This meant to theMerciad staff that it would notbe able to run a three-column

Obama for America adver-tisement or a subsequent ErieCongressional Democraticcandidate advertisement in this

weeks newspaper. Both hadbeen submitted last week and

were slated to run on April 16. The newspaper was informed

in the same e-mail by Tobin thatthe administration of the col-lege is concerned about its 501

(c) (3) status. The 501 (c) (3) status is for

non-prot organizations that areexempt from federal income taxof which Mercyhurst falls under.

The e-mail stated, 501 (c)(3) (non-prot organization)status and the premise that if youaccept some ads from some can-didates, you may have to acceptads from all candidates.

Concerned with the fact that

this could interfere with the Mer-ciads overall mission of allowing free speech to extend to politics,the Merciad contacted the Stu-dent Press Law Center in Arling-ton, Va., Tuesday.

The Student Press Law Center works as an advocate for studentpress rights and provides legaladvice to high school and collegestudents.

First Amendment legal spe-cialists from that organizationsaid a colleges 501 (c) (3) statusis in no way affected by running political ads.

Adam Goldstein, an attorney advocate for the Student PressLaw Center, wrote in an e-mail

to the Merciad that Mercyhursts501 (c) (3) status would not becompromised if the newspaper

would run a political ad.An institution is no more

responsible for the political con-tent of a student newspaper thanit is the performance of the foot-ball team. As long as the team isplaying football, the school hasfullled its educational goals,

states the e-mail. Similarly, aslong as the newspaper is printed,there is no threat to the tax-exempt status of the school.

Goldstein further explainedthe newspaper can choose to runsome ads and choose not to runothers without affecting the 501(c) (3) status.

The Internal Revenue Servicebacks up Goldsteins statements.

IRS Ruling 72-513 states thecollege cannot lose its 501 (c)(3) status. The publication anddissemination of the editorialstatements in question are actsand expressions of opinion by students occurring in the courseof bona de participation inacademic programs and aca-demic-related functions of theeducational institution, statesthe two-page document.

In such circumstances, thefact that the university furnishesphysical facilities and faculty advisors in connection with theoperation of the student news-paper does not make the expres-sion of political views by thestudents in the publishing of thenewspaper the acts of the uni-

versity within the intendment of section 501 (c) (3).

Tobin said the main concernof the administration is notangering the bishop, but abiding by the suspension set forth by Gamble.

The Merciad is supposed to bean open forum of expression forstudents to voice their opinions.

That is a student-run newspa-pers mission. It is not supposedto take a accid, non-opinion-ated, non-controversial, lie-downapproach to the news and viewsof interest to the students. Thatis not our newspapers mission.

The committee convened todecide on an advertising policy has the facts. The excuse of 501 (c) (3) is debunked. Mercy-

hurst will not lose its status, andit can run some ads and not runothers.

The facts are legally clear. Thatis, unless theres another agenda.

Joshua Wilwohl , editor-in-chief

Casey Greene , managing editor

Merissa Frank , opinion

editorNoelle Lelakus , copy editorBrittany Jackett , sports

editor Amanda Valauri, news

editor Jen Gildea , features editorScoot Williams , photogra-

pherLeslie Ruchala , advertising

managerChris Davis , sports editor

501 (c) (3) status not compromised by political ads

Editors respond to ad suspension

The Merciadis interested

in hearingstudents,

faculty,professors,

communityand all

readersopinions on

the topic

of adsuspension.

Please e-mailyour thoughts

[email protected]


16/24

PAGE 16 OPINION

The Good The sun will come out

tomorrow. Perhaps theurry this weekend was thelast for Erie.

The Federal Communca-tions Commission will beimplementing a nationalcell phone emergency alertsystem by 2010.

The BadSpring has sprung and

along with it has come the

aromatic mulch that llscampus and our tuitiondollars hard at work plant-ing owers.

Subways $5 footlong special is winding down,so get those subs whilethey last.

The UglyGas prices are on the

rise again, perhaps soon tobreach $3.50 per gallon.

If you havent secured ahousing situation for nextyear, its crunch time: Findroommates and a placeto live.

Mariah Carey has sur-passes Elvis in No.1 singlesand is second only to theBeatles.

Please e-mail any suggetions [email protected].

The GB&U is a compilation of student opinions.

The Good,the Bad &the Ugly

April 16, 2008

This past week, as I waspeople-watching, I made anobservation about studentschanging behavior throughoutcollege.

In the time spent at collegeyou become more accustomedto recognizing situations andpersonalities.

You can tell the differencesbetween the athletic teams justas you can tell what personalitiesmay belong to certain majors.

While not always evident onthe surface, there are socially-conscience people at this schooland not only the kind from the

outspoken, and sometimes bla-tant, conservative or neo-liberalcamps. While these may be the

voices that are most vocal thereis a more subtle and moderatecrowd, who believe that actionsspeak louder than words.

We tend to recognize oneanother from attendance at ben-ets, PAC lms, ad hoc dinnersand general socializing. One of the largest characteristics thathave become apparent throughsuch people are their beliefs incauses or their goals for aspira-tion.

Part of the college experienceis growing into consciousnessas an adult. The college yearsof your life are the best time togrow. To the student who may feel discouraged because they

are surrounded by what seemlike alcoholics and businessmajors, not that the two are syn-onymous. There is a great pop-ulation of independent-mindedand socially-aware people.

This population is not alwaysas loud or as populous. Going beyond the Mercyhurst commu-nity, it can be extended to Erieas well. Erie has a great inde-pendent art and music scenethat you actually have to dig tond.

I have been fortunate enoughduring my time in Erie to comein contact with different groupsand nd comfort in our similari-ties as well as our differences.

I must say throughout yourtime here at the college, ndsomething that you enjoy and

put your full energy into thattask. The best days are the ones

where your mind is racing with ato-do list or the nights you sleepfully uninterrupted from pureexhaustion of an excessively fullday. A day wasted is an entire24 hours that you will never seeagain.

While this all sounds incred-ibly clich, I realize it is impor-tant to recognize that seizing theday speaks true to the characterof a person.

The work within the class-room is not always as essential asthe work you do outside of theclassrooms and lecture halls.

So while some people may not advance past the maturity of a 12-year-old, I have hopefor the general population.

By Ellen

KoenigStaff writer

As I was on the elliptical today,I was pondering the subject of superciality and relationships.

Although I would never deny that one should be physically attracted to the person they aredating, that should never be themain factor for staying withsomeone.

Over the years, I have expe-

rienced relationships and haveseen friends be in relationshipsthat start because of a physicalattraction.

After hanging out a few times,a number of things can happen;both people genuinely like eachother, physically and because of

the others personality, so they keep talking, the two stop seeing each other because their per-sonalities dont mesh togetheror they keep talking simply because of the physical attrac-tion, regardless of whether or

not they actually like the otherspersonality.

While at rst the attractive-ness of the other person may blind one to the reality that therelationship has no depth ormeaning, eventually the lack of agenuine connection on a deeper

level will cause one of the twoto stray due to boredom.I feel that whenever a rela-

tionship has too much emphasison looks, the factors that lead toloyalty and a feeling of commit-ment to one another never havethe chance to develop.

Although the person may stillmake you feel as though youhave a fth-grade crush, this

relationship is more lustful thanloving.

If you are only with a personbecause of how they look, youmight not really care about what

they are doing or how they feel. Also, I feel that when a person

is too into looks, they are likely to become obsessive or allow the other person to get away

with way more than they shouldand end up being taken advan-tage of because the person

knows they can get away withpractically anything. This situation will result in

an un-fullling relationship oneither side; one person is being walked all over and the other isdating someone about whomthey dont genuinely care.

As I mentioned earlier, Ithink that its important to beattracted to the person you are

with, but once you realize thatthere is nothing more, looksare only going to get you so farbefore you realize its time tomove on.

By MichelleLaSlavicStaff writer

Roommates Wanted

Off-campus housing available, 8 blocksfrom campus.

Rooms in 4-bedroom house, All utilities included (Gas, electric, water, garbage, cable, Internet and

phone.)$500 all inclusive w\ $300 deposit.

Contact Beth 814-806-3227.

Copy editor neededfor 2008-09

merciad.mercyhurst.edu

Like-minded people, groups evident on campus

Looks only go so far, then comes personality


17/24

OPINION PAGE 17April 16, 2008

HELP FOR ALL

MATH NEEDS!

MATH LAB

Located in theLibrary

304 A & B

OpenSunday-ThursdayCall Ext: 207A for

exact hours .

Disheartened and disen-chanted I began to survey topics for this article, unin-spired by lies in the news, wary of responses to last week andambivalent toward reection, Ihave decided to divulge somepersonal experience that is mebeing and becoming.

Life gets harder to swallow while operating under the lensthat the very forces of greed,egotism and nihilism seem toguide not only our corporateprocess, but politics and social

ways as well. As I went throughthe tags on my plethora of clothing articles, I knew my guiltin serving these, what I wouldconsider, evil forces was justi-ed. Clothing ourselves bothpast and present has been asimple task, yet now at the costsof child labor or exploitation

we all are granted the faade of choice when shopping for suchapparel.

I refuse to point the ngerat any of the corporations orthese guiding forces because theblame and responsibility remainson the individual as per usual.Sleeping for the majority of my life, I can only apologize for, or

work against, supporting exploi-

tation in the business world. Iguess wanting more in terms of material possessions has led meto the crossroads of awarenessin which I am face to face withchildren who sewed my 100thshirt only so that they couldafford to feed themselves.

Sickness sets in with such arealization and questions ariseas to why a company would jus-tify such labor? Apparently inthis day and age, prot seems tobe the ultimate justication fornot only exploiting the earth,other nations resources, butalso individuals lives that are noless divine than mine or yours.

The drama of real life hasofcially far exceeded any enter-

tainment provided by Rock of Love or Keeping up with theKardashians. Personal choicesstretching from what we eat to what we wear cross over to thelens in which we view the world.Seeing America as a beacon of hope and love juxtaposed withthe America that spreads dis-trust and corruption, makesme appreciate the choices I canmake support the ways of loveeven in the face Babylonianforces suppressing the truth.

Obviously I am as far fromperfect and just as to blame asmy neighbor since perpetualseeking for ownership over amyriad of material wealth hasguided much of progress in life.

However, I do believe the moreconsciousness and awarenessexpands the clearer choices willbecome and responsibility canbe restored to the individual.Each choice that we make canlead us toward and guide us inthe ways of love, humility andrespect, away from the fear,arrogance and impertinencethat I would argue dictates ourcurrent progress.

So until the days when thechoices made in love trumpthose made in fear, everywhereis war with the ground we walk on as the playing eld and theclothes we wear as our uniforms.

Watch the Canadian Documen-tary: The Corporation.

By Jerrod

MarkleStaff writer

Roommates Wanted

3928 Lake Pleasant

3-bedroom house

2 bedrooms open June 1, for a 12-monthlease

All appliances, including washer, dryer,dishwasher.

New furnace, windows, central air

Male Intel student in house now

Rent: $350/month plus 1/3 utilities

Call JonDays: 899-7602 x 314

Cell: 881-2087

Prot ultimate justication for exploiting Earth, individuals

As the United States passes itsfth year in combat with Iraq,the approval ratings of the warsit at an estimated 39 percent.It indicates that the Americangovernments decision to invade

Iraq was based on several awedanalyses of the threat posed by Saddam Hussein.

It was quickly inherent thata linear battle was not one that

would be fought in the coming months after the invasion. Thestand-up of several large insur-gent groups gave way to anintense asymmetrical ght forthe American forces.

The years to come wouldprove to the American forcesthat guerilla warfare would againbe their weakness.

The push of education, cul-tural awareness and the multi-role of todays ofcer corps haveallowed commanders to becomea vital role to the stability in theregion. With time, the coalitionforces realized that it was imper-ative for members of the com-

munity to be a part of forwardprogress.

The projected costs of the warare near a trillion U.S. dollars, U.S.deaths at 4,036 precious lives,large Iraq causalities and long deployments of our soldiers.

Where, as a country, must wedraw the line between our stabil-ity and the stability of Iraq? If

we stay, we risk more casualties

and strain on the U.S. economy and well-being. War is truly a statement of

failed diplomacy, although anelement that humanity will deal

with for eternity. The truth of is that we have made a commit-ment to not only Iraq but to the

world that we will bring stability and security to the region.

Iraq, like other soil we have

fought on, will become anothernation that will rely on Americansoldiers to protect and defend it.

This can bring larger instabil-ity and a breeding ground forIslamic terrorist groups.

Although Americans areswayed by their political aflia-tions and biases, we must standtogether and united to make thisa success. Citizens must becomeinformed on the present and the

future of Iraq and not becomebogged down by past mistakes.

Success is attainable, how-ever it is not possible withoutthe support of the Americancitzens. Hundreds of thousandsof American service membershave made grave sacrices forthis war and wish not to see their

work fail them. This war is not Vietnam; it is Operation Iraqi

Freedom. We must win or risk

even larger losses. John StewartMill states it best when he said,War is an ugly thing, but notthe ugliest of things. The person

who has nothing for which he is willing to ght, nothing which

is more important than his ownpersonal safety, is a miserablecreature and has no chance of being free unless made and keptso by the exertions of better menthan himself.

By BillSwaffordStaff writer

5 years later war is Operation Iraqi Freedom not Vietnam


18/24

Steve was an athlete, but he was more than that, he was acompetitor. He loved to win,and he usually did. He talked allsummer of breaking the camprecord in the 50-meter free-style at the annual swim meet.I watched him swim everyday during pool time, and I knew that he would probably accom-plish his goal.

He stepped up onto the block with every intention of breaking the record, and then I watchedas Joey, one of the smallestcampers in camp that summer,slipped into the pool in the lane

next to him. As the race started, all of theswimmers dove into the water,all except Joey. Joey was tooscared to even jump into thedeep end, so he started in the

water and pushed off the wall. What happened next turned

a predictable race into the mostmemorable moment of thesummer. Steve dove into the

water with the other swimmers,but instead of speeding to theopposite wall, he pulled up andbegan treading water alongside

Joey. The crowd of cheering camp-

ers tried to will him to startswimming, but Steve had madehis decision. He too was cheer-ingfor Joey. It took Joey along time to swim that shortrace. He had to stop several

times to hold onto the oating lane divider, but the crowd of campers never stopped cheer-ing. Steve never stopped tread-ing water. Joey nished the raceexhausted, but smiling.

Everyone crowded aroundhim and held him up. No oneelse noticed as Steve slowly pulled himself from the water.

That crowd could have beencheering for him and his new record, but Steve had made adecision in the few secondsbefore the race began.

This would be Joeys moment.It would have been easy forSteve to win the race, but it took courage to make such an unself-ish decision and sacrice hispersonal goal.

I believe that very often in lifeI, like Steve, am faced with the very difcult decision of doing what is easy or doing what isright.

One summer as I was watch-ing a camp swim meet, I

watched a 12-year-old boy makea decision that most grown men

would not have the courage tomake. He gave up something

that he desperately wanted andgave Joey a lifelong memory.

As a high school teacher, Iam faced with difcult decisionson a daily basis. Sometimes it iseasy to get frustrated and giveup. Sometimes the apathy of many high school students isenough to discourage even themost positive and optimisticeducator.

Often it is easy to ignore the

fact that a student has just faileda third test in a row or thathomework has again not beenhanded in. It takes a lot of timeand effort to nd out why a pat-tern like that occurs and how tox it.

Sometimes I do just ignorethe problem, but I hope thatmore often than not I do what

is right and not what is easy.Hopefully that makes me a

better educator and a betterperson. In my world, doing

what is right instead of whatis easy can mean the differencebetween a student graduating and dropping out of school.

Getting the chance to makethat difference is why I teach.

OPINIONPAGE 18 April 16, 2008

Joshua Wilwohl Editor-in-Chief [email protected] Casey Greene Managing Editor [email protected]

Amy Zielinski & Amanda Valauri News Editors [email protected] Jen Gildea Features Editor [email protected] Merissa Frank Opinion Editor [email protected] Chris Davis & Brittany Jackett Sports Editors [email protected] Nicole Cerilli A&E [email protected] Scoot Williams Photographer [email protected] Tiffany Cook Production Editor [email protected] Leslie Ruchala Advertising Manager [email protected] Noelle Lelakus Copy Editor [email protected]

Ashley Pastor General Assignment [email protected] Lenore Skomal Advisor [email protected]

The Merciad is the student-produced newspaper of Mercyhurst College. It is published throughout the school year, with the exception of nals week. Our ofce 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 t. Letters are due the Thursday before publication and may not be longer than 300 words.Submit letters to box PH 485.

Mercyhursts Ethical Reection Committee has initiated this series to encourage reection within the entire college community on the values by which we live. We hope that these will inspire reective discussion in a variety of venues.

We suggest that faculty introduce appropriate essays into class discussion; we encourage students to bring these thoughts to cl asses; we invite administrators and staff to explore these in department meetings. Or, if you wish, you may respond directly to our committee chair, Rev. Lyta Seddig: [email protected].

The ERC also requests that you let us know how you have used these thoughts in your life on this campus.This I Believe is now linked to the college website. All essays can be found at http://www.mercyhurst.edu/ne/special-events/believe_essays.Rob Englert, a 2006 Graduate of Mercyhurst College, has been a history teacher at Harborcreek High School for the past 2 years. He teaches 9th grade

history at Harborcreek and is the Assistant coach for the Varsity and JV Womens Volleyball team at McDowell High School. While attending Mercyhurst he was the Chair of the Student Activities Council 2005-2006, Programmer for the Student Activities Council 2004 2005, Ambassador 2003 2006,Writing Center Tutor 2003 2006, on the Mercyhurst College NCAA II Wrestling Team 2002-2004 and a member of Kappa Delta Pi 2004 2006. He also participated in Habitat for Humanity 2004 2005 and volunteered at the Booker T. Washington Center. He was inducted into the Service Honor Society during his Senior year.

By Rob EnglertContributing writer

Take a Facebookbreak.

Catch up onnews that isntfeatured on your

Mini-Feed.

See photos that

say more thanIm with stupid.

merciad.mercyhurst.edu

This I believe: Teaching is a chance to make a difference


19/24

SPORTS PAGE 19April 16, 2008

One of the greatest arenas inall of sports, Augusta National,measures 7,445 feet with a par72. It has seen the greatestof golfers tremble away leadsheading into its last few holes.It looked as though once more,the Augusta faithful wouldslowly take away strokes from

Trevor Immelman giving theGreen Jacket to the nearestcompetitor.

In the end however,Immelman closed out the day

with a (+3) and a three-stroke win over second-place Tiger Woods.

Immelman started thetournament next to long timeidle Gary Player, the only other

South African golfer to ever winthe Masters. However it lookedas though Brent Snedeker wasgoing to steal Immelmansthunder. It was Immelmansdestiny to win the nal timethat Player would ever steponto Augusta National.

Walking through the naltwo holes, Immelman wassurrounded with the sound of boos from the crowd. Onceagain golf proved that theunderdog is unwelcome, as

Tiger Woods continue to hearcheers with every shot taken.

I didnt feel happy withmy game. I felt like I had tojust basically start from zeroagain, Immelman said to the

Associated Press. I startedchipping away at a few things,and I was missing cuts but justtrying to stay positive becauseI knew I was improving week after week. Here I am aftermissing the cut last week,Masters Champion. Its thecraziest thing Ive ever heardof.

Tiger Woods is learning quick just how fast the media can twist

words after he stated earlier inthe week that a Grand Slam waseasily within reason.

I learned my lesson there with the press, Woods saidin a conversation with the

Associated Press. Woods nished the

tournament just ve under parand three shots off the leadin second place. It looked asthough Woods was going tonish the day much deeper inthe eld, perhaps not even inthe top 10. Consistent putting and hazard saves allowed Tigerto sneak into second afterSnedeker, Sink and Flesch allnished in the positives onSunday.

Despite all of the boosImmelman nished on top

winning the much covetedGreen Jacket. Immelman willlook to add the U.S. OpenChampionship to his beltstarting in June.

Woods will look to add to his13 major championships as theU.S. Open will take place at theHazeltine National Golf Clubin Chaska, Minn.

By Kyle CraigStaff writer

Trevor Immelman received his green jacket on Sunday.Contributed photo

Immelman keeps Tiger in the woods

For the second straight week

the Mercyhurst mens golf teamfound themselves in familiarterritory, as they tied for ninthat the Outback SteakhouseInvitational hosted by theUniversity of Findlay on Friday and Saturday.

The Lakers top scorer wassenior Steven Barr, who shota two-round total of 158. Barrscore was good enough for 40th

place.Following Barr by a single

stroke was senior Kyle Waddell, with rounds of 79 and 80.

Mercyhursts top scorer fromlast week, junior Tyler Bidwell,nished tied for 54th with roundsof 80 and 82.

Senior Ben Deets showedthe biggest improvement fromround one to two as he shotan 88 on day one and 81 on

day two.However three other Lakers

competed unattached at theevent.

Junior Derek Fisher shot an 83

on day one and 87 on day two while senior Ryan McNulty shota two-round total of 162. JuniorMatt Mahoney had rounds of 88and 80.

Mercyhurst totaled 644 strokes, which tied Northwestern (Ohio)for ninth place. Wayne Stateplaced rst with a total of 600strokes.

I think most of our team

needs to work on condenceand consistency, Bidwell saidabout how the team can lowerits score.

We all have the ability toshoot low scores, but I think sometimes our mental game may get in the way on the course,he said.

The Lakers return to action Thursday at the St. VincentsInvitational in Latrobe, Pa.

By Kirk CampbellStaff writer

Mens golf ties for ninth

In the rst ever American

Collegiate Hockey Association(ACHA) Division I All-Stargame, Mercyhurst senior Matt

Warren was honored as thesecond star of the game, afterscoring for the Blue team.

His team would end upfalling short to the White team

with a score of 5-4. Warren was the only player

from the current Mercyhurst

roster asked to participate at thePenn State University event.

Other players returning tonext years line up were honoredat the end of the season withEastern Collegiate Hockey League (ECHL) divisionawards.

Returning sophomoresKenny Hunt and Ben ODellreceived second team All-Starawards at the conclusion of the

2007-2008 season playoffs.Freshman Steve Stepanian

was named to the All- Rookieteam after completing his rstyear with the Division I Club

team. All players possess great work ethics, which will be helpful atthe start of next years hockey season.

Looking ahead to next year,the mens club team strivesto improve against divisionleaders the Robert MorrisUniversity (RMU) Colonialsand the Niagara University

Purple Eagles.Last season the Lakers

nished just ve points behindRMUs team in the ECHLdivision standings.

To date, Niagara University has recruited nine players. Thedepth added to their rostermeans the Lakers will need toactively sign more players totheir line up.

In addition, Robert Morris

University has six players inkedfor the start of the 2008-2009season.

These two teams are heavily involved with recruiting.

Mercyhurst is also active inbringing in junior-caliberplayers that can help the teamachieve playoff success.

Currently coach TomMcKinnon is looking for players who can make an immediateimpact on the roster.

Looking ahead to next year,McKinnon commented on theupcoming season.

Signing the eight to 10pending recruits is vital for theachievement the Lakers hopefor next season, McKinnonsaid

The Mercyhurst Lakers are apart of the ECHL, a subset of the ACHA. Syracuse University,SUNY Canton, University of Buffalo and the University of Rochester are also in thedivision.

By Kerry OConnorContributing writer

Club hockey looking to future


20/24

SPORTSPAGE 20 April 16, 2008

The Mercyhurst College mensand womens rowing teams sureleft their mark in Camden, N.J.during the Knecht Cup Regattathis past weekend.

Saturdays races led threeHurst crews to the nals onSunday; a solid start to theseason after only two weeks of

water time and a home race that was foiled by poor conditions.

On Saturday the lightweightmens four cruised into rstplace with a time of 6:50.1 forthe top spot of 17 boats, beating second-place Faireld by nineseconds in their heat.

The mens varsity four alsonished strong with a timeof 7:08.3, beaten only by Philadelphias boat that clockedin at 6:56.9.

The Mercyhurst womens clubeight fought hard and took therst place honor in their heat as

well at 7:14.7, just three secondsahead of the Philadelphia crew.

The mens varsity eight and womens club four also competedon Saturday, earning fth andfourth places, respectively. Thetop two nishers from each heatcontinued to the nals.

Sunday began bright and early at 7 a.m., but the Laker crewsonly improved from the day before. The lightweight mensfour kept their favored positionand won the

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The Merciad, April 16, 2008