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4-1-4 plan

wont affect

when students

graduate

page 3

Cosmopolitan

features

students

murder

Bram sisters

join forces on

hockey teams

top line

page 5 page 12

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NEWSPage 2 December 7, 2011

Next step in

university statusprocess pending

Two months after MercyhurstCollege hosted a review team fromthe Pennsylvania Department ofEducation (PDE), which granted

the institution a recommendationof being ready for university status,the college is again left waiting forthe next step.

Right now we are waiting forthe Department of Education toplace us in the Pennsylvania Bulle-tin, said Meghan Corbin, directorof marketing and public relations.Once it is placed in the bulletin,it will have to remain there for 30days.

The Pennsylvania Bulletin will

have a public announcement ofMercyhursts application for uni-

versity status. During this time, thepublic can comment or refute theprogression of the application.

The final step of the process isthe official signature by Pennsylva-nia Governor Tom Corbett. If Cor-bett approves, this will be the startof a new to-do list for Mercyhurst.

Prestige, recognition, growth andresearch are all discussed as Mer-cyhurst moves toward university

status, but all of these things comewith a cost.

Business cards, letterheads, signs,banners, carpets, floors, walls, logosand websites all bear the name,Mercyhurst College, and with Cor-betts signature, all of these thingsneed to change.

When a business changes itsname, you need to change the sig-nage, said Corbin. There is a$500,000 budget allocation fromthe margin to university transition,

which includes signage, advertise-ments, legal fees and applicationfees.

This budget comes from marginallocation. The school sets bud-gets for the academic year, whichincludes estimates on revenue andexpenses. The school operates tomaintain that budget within threepercent, meaning that the budgetis actually three percent higherthan the ideal cost of operationto ensure sufficient funds for that

fiscal year.Out of that margin, however

much it is, we do strategic initiatives,such as this one, Corbin said.

Historically, according to Corbin,the margin has gone into advertis-ing or the latest marketing cam-paign, though this year the $500,000

will go toward making universitychanges around campus and withindepartments.

Ultimately, the amount of moneydepends on the fiscal year and howmuch of the margin is left over.

This is a once in a lifetime, orinstitution, opportunity for us toannounce that we are now goingfrom a college to a university,Corbin said.

While there are many things tochange, the college has taken stepsto ensure that resources arent

wasted.We are going to be as cost con-

scious as possible, said Corbin.We are going to order things asthey would normally come up forordering, and weve asked adminis-trators, faculty and staff to considerthe fact that we will be moving touniversity status during the spring,so to only order what is necessaryfor this year.

This is important when con-sidering products that need to bereplaced annually, such as businesscards and letterheads.

If we receive university statusin February, we will not assumethe name until more toward gradu-ation, said Corbin. We will notthen order new materials until thebeginning of the financial year,

which is June 1.The final question still in debate

is whether the class of 2012 willgraduate from college or a univer-sity.

Up until mid-March, this yearsclass could graduate as MercyhurstUniversity, which would be our firstcelebration as a university, Corbinsaid.

According to Corbin, anythingafter mid-March could result in

wasted resources, which is what theyare trying to avoid, even though nomatter the status, any graduate canreturn and get a university diplomaif they so choose.

College is no longer an accu-rate term for the wide diversity ofMercyhursts academic offerings,said Corbin.

By Joseph Pudlick

Staff writer

merciad.mercyhurst.edu/news

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Mercyhurst College faculty will soon voteon whether the college should switch to the4-1-4 term system.

Faculty Senate will vote on the collegescore curriculum at its Dec. 14 meeting as wellas on the academic calendar system at its Jan.11 meeting.

The calendar proposal that faculty vote on will get sent to the Office of Academic of

Affairs, who will then decide if the proposalgoes on to College Council.

College Council consists of four students,four faculty, four administration membersand representatives from North East.

Once it is through College Council, Presi-dent Tom Gamble, Ph.D., will decide onit, and finally the Board of Trustees mustapprove the proposal.

Faculty is pretty low on that chain, buttheir view is taken pretty seriously, saidMichael Federici, Ph.D., president of the Fac-ulty Senate.

The options faculty will vote on at the Jan.11 Faculty Senate meeting include keeping tri-mesters with the extended classes as they are

now and the 4-1-4 term system. The 4-1-4 calendar is made up of terms

that last 14 weeks, 3 weeks and 14 weeks.Faculty will also decide if they prefer the 4-1-4 or 4-4-1 option.

If the 4-1-4 calendar is chosen, the changewould not take place until 2013-14 at the earli-est, which is when the new core, if approved,

will start.This way we can do it at once, if it turns

out were doing both, Federici said.If the college decides on the 4-1-4 calen-

dar, academic departments will use next yearto plan how they will structure their classes.

It will take some time for departmentsto figure out exactly how to reconstruct orreconfigure their major requirements, hesaid.

Federici said he has heard students sayingthat the college is changing the calendar as a

way to make more money because studentswill not be able to graduate on time on the4-1-4 system.

This is simply not true. The calendar isnot going to be the reason why someone hasto go extra time, he said. The college willbend over backward to make sure the transi-tion goes as smoothly as possible.

Vice President for Academic Affairs PhilBelfiore, Ph.D., explained that the Office of

Academic Affairs will do everything neces-sary to make sure students are able to take thenecessary classes to graduate on time.

Belfiore explained that classes may need

to be reconfigured if the 4-1-4 calendaris chosen, and some core classes may notbe offered if the core is revised. Even so,the Office of Academic Affairs will work

with students to find them courses to fulfillrequirements.

We guarantee that students will graduateas they expected to graduate, he said.

In order to guarantee that students willbe able to graduate on time, Federici askedall departments to assess the feasibility ofswitching to the 4-1-4 calendar. He also asked

whether departments prefer the current tri-

mester system or switching to the 4-1-4 termsystem. Nearly every department responded.

Some departments said they would need

more time to think about the calendar systemin order to see if changing to 4-1-4 is pos-sible.

Federici had one case where a departmentsaid it would not be able to operate on the4-1-4 calendar. Even so, Federici said thedepartment did not have a convincing argu-ment.

To argue that it cant be done is a little sillywhen it is by far the most common academiccalendar that exists, he said.

He would not release the name of thedepartment because the survey was confiden-tial.

I have not run into where people areunable to change, but I have run into wherepeople are unwilling to change, said Fed-erici.

Federici said that all major problems willbe accounted for when considering the 4-1-4calendar, but everyone cannot get what they

want when it comes to the decision.He explained that during the time of the

American Revolution, the nation was dividedinto thirds on what people wanted.

The college is divided similarly in their cal-endar choices.

Of course there are going to be some dif-ferent opinions, said Federici. A leader musttake them into account and lead.

Page 3December 7, 2011 NEWS

4-1-4 plan wont affect graduationBy Kelly LuomaEditor-in-chief

The calendar is notgoing to be thereason why someonehas to go extra time.

Michael Federici, Ph.D.

Possession ofcontrolled substanceTuesday, Nov. 29

McAuley HallCollege discipline

3828 Briggs Ave.College discipline

Liquor law violationMonday, Nov. 28

Briggs AvenueCollege discipline

Nov. 8-29, 2011

Criminal mischief to

vehicleTuesday, Nov. 8

Larceny/theftTuesday, Nov. 8

Possession ofcontrolled substanceMonday, Nov. 28

Old MainCollege discipline

Lot #20

College discipline

Hurst receives PLCB grant

Mercyhurst College has received aone-year grant from the Pennsylva-nia Liquor Control Board (PLCB).

This grant will assist Mercyhurstin continuing many programs,including the Counseling Centerspeer education program, MercyhurstMentors, which is now a RecognizedStudent Club/Organization.

Executive Director of WellnessJudy Smith, Ph.D.; Counselor ReneePatton, Ph.D.; Assistant Direc-

tor of Residence Life and StudentConduct Sam Barlekoff; Directorof the Center for Student Engage-ment and Leadership DevelopmentSarah Allen; Police and Safety Cor-poral Patrick Smith; and Assistant

Athletic Director Sarah Headley allhad a role in applying for the PLCBgrant.

Mercyhurst Mentors (M&Ms)is a sub-group of the programCHOICES, which began as part of aprevious grant. As Smith explained,the original grant was designed

to assist students in making goodchoices about drinking behavior.

M&Ms does a variety of things,including training and certifyingstudents to help with alcohol edu-cation events and speakers, puttingtogether alcohol awareness weekand speaking at local schools aboutalcohol and college.

The PLCB grant will go towardfunding alcohol education, assess-ment, prevention and peer educatortraining. In addition to M&Ms, theprograms the grant funds includeincreased Police and Safety pres-ence on days when there is anincrease in alcohol usage and bring-ing in a trainer on BASICS, whichis an interview process to help stu-dents assess their drinking behav-iors as well as encourage reflectionand good decision making.

Freshman Brianna Carle is infavor of the grant and the programsfor which the money will be used.

It seems a lot of underage stu-dents take drinking a little to theextreme and should become moreaware of the consequences, said

Carle. Im not sure how much gooditll do, but it might make an impact

on someI think its kind of an issuethat people overlook and should bebrought to the table more.

Carle continued to explain thatshe is not against drinking, just reck-less drinking and taking it too far.

Some students are unsure aboutthe effectiveness of these types ofprograms.

I think [the program] is a jokeand ineffective, said senior JimGallagher. Its college, and kidsare going to drink. As for Policeand Safety, dont get caught, go offcampus or dont drink.

Freshman Shelby Wanik agreedwith this.

Its college, said Wanik. Thereis going to be alcohol everywhereyou go.

Smith explained that the fundingwill go toward targeting underclass-men and showing them that thesocial perception of alcohol use isnot accurate.

Even if we help a little bit, its agood thing, Smith said.

The programs and other variouschanges have already started to be

put into effect and will continueover the next year.

By Alicia Cagle

Staff writer

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NEWSPage 4 December 7, 2011

News Briefs

Former Mercyhurst College hockey players Jordan Tibbett

and Kyle Just were cleared of all charges Thursday, Nov. 10,

according to goerie.com.Both said they want to resume their studies and play hockey

at Mercyhurst, but it is not known whether they will beallowed to return to the college.College officials reached for comment were not able to

release information regarding whether Tibbett and Just willbe reinstated at the college.

Hurst students disciplined for weapons violation

Two Mercyhurst College students have received disciplinaryaction from the college for possessing three firearms in theiron-campus apartment.

The extent of the disciplinary action is a confidential matterby federal law, college officials said. The names of the stu-dents also cannot be revealed.

College officials reached for comment over the Thanksgiv-ing break were not able to release information regarding thedisciplinary action the students received or if the students

would be staying at the college.

The Syllabi Repository, which houses all of the syllabi forthe 2010-11 and 2011-12 school years, has been added to theportal to make it easier for students and faculty to learn aboutall of the classes Mercyhurst offers.

With this system comes many perks.Students will be able to browse different syllabi within the

academic programs. It enables them to explore the differentcourses they want to take and choose what is best suited forthem, Administrative Assistant Diane Speice said.

Speice is also the projects coordinator.The effort has been in place for years, but applying for

university status means submitting all core course syllabi, sheadded.

Director of Assessment Amy Danzer and Web Adminis-trator Patrick Canella were also part of the effort to includea full-fledged online catalogue that is available to the entirecollege community.

Online syllabi have always been available, but only theclasses in which a student was enrolled in through Blackboard.

Now, students and faculty have the opportunity to look andcross-reference syllabi for an all-around improved and moreaccessible academic experience.

Senior Gui Alves said, I think it will allow students tochoose their classes more wisely, having a better idea of whatto expect. It could cause problems at first if teachers expectstudents to have read the syllabus upon entering the classroom,but its something I would probably take advantage of.

I also think how it is introduced to the student body has agreat affect on their response to it, he said, using the portalas an example of another under-utilized tool.

It is important that the repository is explained so thatstudents will understand how to take full advantage of itsresources.

It will also be useful for students when determining whetheror not they need a certain class.

Freshman Kevin Barry said, I think its a good idea; itshould help put an end to students unintentionally takingclasses that wont benefit them or getting into something theydidnt expect and possibly having to use a pass/fail.

Students arent the only ones who will benefit from it,though.

When asked who else might be able to take advantage of thenew repository, Speice said, Faculty members will be able to

browse other syllabi within their department in order to bestprepare their own syllabi. Administrative offices such as OAA(Office of Academic Affairs) and the Registrar will greatlybenefit. With the syllabi at their fingertips, they will be able tosurmise exactly what was covered in any given course.

The repository is shaping up to be a tool that can be usedby all.

Junior Megan Richards said, I dont like the idea of havingto go over everything before the first class, but it could lead tostudents having a better idea of whats going on and a stron-ger start to the term.

Syllabi in the repository will be updated every term, accord-ing to Speice.The syllabi will be collected, organized and placed on the

portal each term. They will be collected, renamed and orga-nized on the colleges share drive first and then uploaded tothe portal, she said. For example, I will begin requesting andcollecting the syllabi for the winter term right after the Thanks-giving break. All the syllabi collected from previous years willremain on the portal.

The Syllabi Repository is available under the Academics tabon the portal. After choosing the Syllabi Repository, the syl-labi are organized by academic term, school, department andfaculty member.

By Shea Quadri

Contributing writer

Online syllabi catalogue added to portalStudents, faculty can access previous course syllabi

Former hockey players cleared of all charges

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FEATURESDecember 7, 2011 Page 5

Freshman 15 proves to be avoidable

Making the transition betweenliving at home and living at collegecan be difficult for students, notonly in terms of school work butalso during meal times.

College is the first time manystudents are making independentchoices, and parents are not aroundto help their children make healthy

ones. The infamous Freshman15 is one thing that students dont

want to gain when transitioning tocollege.

First goal is to avoid it, Execu-tive Director of Wellness JudySmith, Ph.D., said. (It is) easier toavoid the pounds then have to losethem.

Smith explained tips to avoid the weight gain during college. Theseinclude watching food choices andportion sizes, avoiding emotional

and stress eating, going to the RecCenter, eating healthy snacks, get-ting a good nights sleep, practic-ing stress management skills andavoiding vending machines andpop.

Alcohol is not your friend[either] when it comes to weight,Smith said.

Alcohol contains empty calories

that fill your stomach but do not

provide any nutrition.Smith also suggests eating witha friend who will support yourhealthy eating and having a plan

when going to the dining hall formeals. If you are struggling withmeals, get takeout when going toEgan Dining Hall in order to con-trol the food temptations.

One common pattern the CohenHealth Center tends to see is that

students are only eating fruits and

vegetables. Smith said this type ofunbalanced eating will set studentsup for failure because bodies willstart craving foods theyre not get-ting.

For Northwest PennsylvaniaHighmark Insurance members,there are many opportunities to seea nutritionist for free and developan appropriate eating plan.

While all of these tips must be

followed for a healthy lifestyle, a

previous report by MSNBC in earlyNovember stated that the Fresh-man 15 may not be all its crackedup to be.

The report states that 25 percentof freshmen lose weight and that ifthere is weight gain, it is between2.4 and 3.5 pounds.

Freshman Lauren Smith experi-enced this claim firsthand.

I was pleasantly surprised when

I first got here because I thought I

would gain that dreaded Freshman15, but I ... actually lost weight,Smith said.

She explains that she will keepherself in check as she gets used tocollege, just in case.

Freshman Monica Perez said, Itis quite enticing to have the abilityto eat limitless amount of food.

Perez is not concerned about theFreshman 15, however. She said shemakes sure her meals are balanced.

According to the MSNBC report,freshmen arent the only ones whohave to be on the watch for weightgain. During four years in col-lege, the average woman gains 8.9pounds, and the average man gains13.4 pounds.

Freshman Resident AssistantKatie Pizzuti says that she doesntbelieve this myth to be true either.

I think most people that seethemselves gaining any weight(especially girls) will turn aroundand start working out. As much asI see my girls studying together andsnacking, I see them going to yogaand dance classes. So I can standbehind that its not accurate, shesaid.

The nurses at the Health Centerare always available to help students

with nutrition and to connect them with any appropriate nutritionalassistance.

By Alicia CagleStaff writer

Freshmen are advised to watch food choices and portion sizes and to avoid emotional and

stress eating, vending machines, pop and alcohol.

Jill Barrile photo

Cosmo features students murder

A full year has passed since the students of Mercyhurst Col-lege grieved the death of dance student Jenni-Lyn Watson.

The tragedy deeply affected many Mercyhurst students, butit has also garnered national attention, including a 4-page fea-ture story in this months issue of Cosmopolitan.

On Nov. 19, 2010, the 20-year-old junior was murderedafter returning home for Thanksgiving break. In February ofthis year, Watson ex-boyfriend, Steven Pieper, pleaded guiltyto committing the crime.

The Cosmopolitan article, titled, If He Couldnt Have Her,No One Could is a sensationalized detailing of the tragiccase. The article has a focus on advising women how to breakup with overly possessive boyfriends. It includes warning signsfor determining how a boyfriend might react to a break up.

Graduate student Connie Morrison, who is Watsonsformer roommate, thought that although the article wasprinted against the familys wishes it was still tastefully donefor the most part.

It seemed to be very fact-based rather than a biased piece,

which I can respect, however it would have been nice for themto share with readers what a wonderful person Jenni was andthe life that she lived before it was taken from her, said Mor-rison. Jenni was more than just some girl that broke up withher boyfriend and it went wrong. I felt she deserved more ofa legacy than that.

Morrison was appalled by some of the choices the editorsof the magazine made.

I was extremely disturbed by the picture of two police

officers carrying her in a body bag out of the woods. This issomething Ive probably seen dozens of times in a womensmagazine about a tragic story, but when its your friend, some-one you loved and want to remember full of love, happinessand life, its just not right, she said.

The first time I saw it, was like a punch in the stomach,the tears returned and with them, all of the horrible memoriesof that day and those awful weeks that followed that you wishyou could forget.

As a close friend of Watsons, Morrison hopes that the art i-cle will be able to help other girls who might find themselvesin a situation similar to Watsons.

I only hope that from this story being published, other

girls out there who find themselves in a similar position canget themselves the help that they need to avoid this and take

precaution with their situation. If it saves just one girl fromhaving it happen to her, I think the story will have done itsjob, she said.

The topic of Watsons murder is still an extremely sensi-tive topic on campus. Several people, including Tauna Hunter,chair of the Mercyhurst College Dance Department, did not

wish to comment regarding their reaction to the article.Other students, however, were willing to share their

thoughts.

Im surprised I didnt realize that the horrific incidentgot as much national publicity that it did, junior ChelseaSchermerhorn said. It makes me wonder why our culture isso heavily vested in negative news.

Shermerhorn did not read the Cosmopolitan article, butshe thinks the magazine is not an entirely appropriate publica-tion to handle an issue as sensitive as Watsons murder.

Junior Kristy Mattson was surprised to see the story getsuch wide national attention as well, especially in a magazinelike Cosmopolitan.

Ive heard people are mad about the article, she said.I think its kind of random that its in that magazine itdoesnt seem like it belongs there.

The article, If He Couldnt Have Her, No One Could ison page 168 of this months issue of Cosmopolitan.

By Brady GreenawaltStaff writer

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FEATURES December 7, 2011Page 6

Senior Alex Stacey enjoys blogging about do-it-yourself projects.

I have been looking for ideas of something to go on the wall over

my bed for a long time. I thought about doing a two-canvas project,

but I didnt see anything that I really wanted. Since the Christmas

season has started so ear ly, I picked up a string of lights, hoping that I

could use them somewhere in the apartment.

Then I thought it would be so pretty to put them on the wall over

my bed and create a large headboard-type shape that frames my bed.

I wanted to make them a little bit different, though, so I decided to

put muffin papers on them, so the lights would have a glowy, flower

effect.

To get the papers to stay on the light, I cut a little X in the middle of

each paper. This way I could put the lightbulb through. (I recommend

using LED light strings, so that the bulbs dont get so hot.)

The papers are pink, yellow and blue, and I think they make the

lights look like flowers. I was thinking about cutting the edges of each,

but I like how they look.

Here are the lights hanging over my bed. I love how the papers

diffuse the light, and it looks so soft. Hanging these over the bed just

looks so pretty, and it adds some light to the room.

This was such an easy project, and really inexpensive too. The string

of lights cost me $2.50, and the papers cost $1. I simply attached them

to the wall with two small frame nails. Now I just need to find some-

thing small to put in the space between the lights.

For more DIY ideas, visit lavendersbluee.blogspot.com

DIY College Style will be a weekly column featuring two college students blogs

on quick and easy tips about crafts and food.

DIY College Style:Flower Lights

New Orleans volunteers

feel rewarded after trip

While most of us were chow-ing down on turkey and stuffing on

Thanksgiving and getting the bestdeals on Black Friday, some Mer-cyhurst students were volunteering

their time to help others.Six years ago, Hurricane Katrinaswept through New Orleansdestroying much of the city. Today,people are still dedicating their timeto help in the rebuilding efforts.

Colin Hurley, the trip organizerand Director of Service Learning,said, Students attending the NewOrleans alternative break trip got toexperience community living, learn-ing, and service on a whole newlevel.

When the 15 students and threechaperones arrived to help rebuildin New Orleans, they were splitinto three teams of six and helpedat several sites where they workedon aspects from demolition, to dry

wall, and painting or insulating. Adrianne Lagruth learned at

both sites she worked on that thehomeowners had been victims ofcontractor fraud, had a majorityof their money stolen, and wererebuilding only what they could

based on the donations throughthe PNOLA foundation. There arepeople without roofs, electricity, gaspower, plumbing, and basic utilities

we take for granted, she said.Dean Atkins, one of the super-

visors of the trip who representedMercyhurst, explained that inaddition to helping to reconstructhomes, they also got to work withhundreds of volunteers to con-struct a playground as a part ofa KaBoom build in a strugglingneighborhood.

He said, In the space of sixhours, we took a derelict play-

ground to a safe, fun environmentfor the community.

Alicia Cagle, a student at Mer-cyhurst, also explained that it wasmore than building a playground.She said they painted murals, puttogether picnic benches, madecheckerboards and put in mosaicsidewalks.

This project was a highlight ofmany of the students who attendedthe trip and Hurley described it asa transformative experience for

everyone involved. Atkins and Cagle both agreed

that their experience in NewOrleans was fantastic.

They had the opportunity tomeet new people and see anotherpart of the country, while helpingothers in need.

Alicia pointed out that, Eventhough the state of New Orleansafter Hurricane Katrina is not beingaddressed in the media, it is some-thing that still needs a lot of work

done.Although they were only in New

Orleans for a week, the group whowent on the trip really made a dif-ference.

They didnt just make a differ-

ence in rebuilding houses, but theyalso made a difference in manypeoples lives.

A homeowner of one of thehouses made Thanksgiving dinnerfor the group because he consid-ered them family after everythingthey had done for him.

Although Collin Hurley couldnot attend the trip, he heard a lot

of positive feedback from the stu-dents.

The simplicity of sharing home-made gumbo with a homeowneror sharing laughter with new col-lege friends while helping to buildhouses is a one-of-a-kind memory,he said.

LaGruth said, The rebuild is farfrom over, these people still needhelp.

There is still a lot of work to bedone in New Orleans. Most volun-

teers usually go during the summer,so it was important for groups,like the students and advisers fromMercyhurst College, to go duringbreak to fill the gaps this time ofthe year.

In order for homes to keep pro-gressing towards completion theyneed a constant stream of volun-teers, said Atkins

If you are interested in helpingto rebuild New Orleans, contact theService Learning Office to find out

when the next opportunity to helpis.

That is what the 18 of us didon this trip. We came together and

we made a difference, Lagruthsaid.

By Kayla KellyStaff writer

Volunteers from Mercyhurst traveled to New Orleans over Thanksgiving break to help rebuild

homes destroyed by Hurricane Katrina.

Alicia Cagle photo

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Page 7December 7, 2011

Baroque opera comes to the Met with Rodelinda

This past Saturday, Dec. 3, at theMary DAngelo Performing ArtsCenter (PAC), the MetropolitanOpera Live in HD series broad-cast George Fredric Handels operaRodelinda.

This performance featured ReneFleming as Rodelinda, StephanieBlythe as Eduige, Joseph Kaiser asGrimoaldo, Shenyang as Garibaldo,

Andreas Scholl as Bertarido andIestyn Davies as Unulfo.

This dramatic baroque opera isfilled with deceit, treachery and tyr-anny.

Grimoaldo has usurped thethrone, and King Bertarido has fledin fear of his life leaving his wife,Rodelinda and son behind.

Grimoaldo wishes to marrythe queen to ascend to the thronelegally. Rodelinda believes herhusband is dead, but still refuses

Grimoaldos advances. The kingssister, Eduige, is heartbroken overGrimoaldos newfound love for hersister-in-law.

Eduige pursues Grimoaldo withno avail. Garibaldo, who is Grimo-aldos right-hand man, proclaimshis own love for Eduige.

Yet, in truth, Garibaldo only

pines for power and plans to killGrimoaldo.

Bertarido, who is not dead,returns to the palace to help his

wife and son flee into exile. Hisfriend, Unulfo, helps him, but Ber-tarido is captured while meeting

with Rodelinda. With help from Eduige and

Unulfo, Bertarido escapes fromprison. Grimoaldo, unaware of hissurroundings in the garden, doesnot hear his approach.

Before Garibaldo can kill him,Bertarido stops him.

Grimoaldo, amazed by his ene-mys righteous behavior, returns thethrone to the rightful king. Righ-teousness prevails, and peace andharmony are restored to the king-dom.

Something that usually does notoccur on the Metropolitan Operastage is the staging of a full-lengthbaroque opera.

During the 18th century, operawas designed for a very intimate set-ting. The opera houses and stages

were much smaller. When the performers were

interviewed during the intermis-sions, they all spoke of how they

were coached on how to use theda-cappo section to show offrange and also change it slightly

with ornamentation to make therepeated section different from the

firstthis was common practiceduring the 18th century.

Another reason why baroque

operas are seldom performed on theMetropolitan stage is that in somethe roles call for castratimales

who are castrated before puberty sothat they would keep the vocal qual-ity of a soprano or mezzo-soprano.

Today, typical castrati roles arenow played by countertenorsmen who have a developed falsetto

voice with the quality of a soprano

or mezzo.Rodelinda calls for two counter-

tenors. Andreas Scholl of Germany

and Iestyn Davies of Britain werethe two countertenors featured inSaturdays performance.

Students enjoyed watching thecountertenors perform.

Junior Adam Ferrari added,Countertenors are rare. You dontget to see them too often.

Junior Kirstan Orgel said, Its aunique sound. It is true that coun-

tertenors do not appear much inoperatic performances. It is morecommon to see them in a concert

setting with orchestra, she said.The next Live in HD broadcastwill be Charles Gounods Faust, onSaturday, Dec. 17, at 1 p.m., starring

Jonas Kaufmann in the title role. This modern production of

Faust has been anticipated as oneof this seasons must-see operas.For ticketing information, call thebox office at 814-824-3000.

This dramatic baroque opera is filled with deceit, treachery and tyranny. Righteousness pre-

vails, and peace and harmony are restored to the kingdom.

Pac.mercyhurst.edu photo

AVAs newest album lacks luster

Following right on the heels of Blink-182snew release, Tom DeLonge swaps hats for thelatest Angels & Airwaves offering.

Love, Pt. 2 comes as the follow-up toLove, originally released in 2009. It picksup right where AVA left off: bombastic guitarriffs mingled with futuristic keyboards and

DeLonges thoughtful lyrics. The simplistic title is quite self-explana-

torythe album delves further into the phe-nomenon of human relationships, as all thesongs hearken back to a theme of necessaryinterconnectedness.

Save for a handful of unique composi-tions and catchy melodies, the chord progres-sion and spacey synthesizer motifs sound thesame through much of the latter half of thealbum.

The elaborate and crafty song compositionis lacking compared to previous AVA albums.

It is not that any of the songs are bad; it isjust that many fail to rise above the status of

mere mediocrity. The album does begin quite promising,

though, with three strong tracks. There is a longing for those tender years

with Saturday night dates and first lovesafeeling that many can resonate with.

The subsequent track, Surrender, is thenfollowed up by another excellent song: Anxi-ety.

Again, the song hits heavy upon the impor-tance of human relationships of all sorts.

The central idea is that we are passengers

in the universe whose significance is deter-mined by our interactions with those aroundus.

This is the central dogma that both theLove albums hinge aroundour socialinteractions are where true meaning lies.

Aside from these three opening tracks,there is not much that stands out.

Love, Pt. 2 is not a bad album by anymeans. It complements Love very welland has quite a few well-intentioned lyricsthroughout.

To read the full version of this article, go to www.

merciad.mercyhurst.edu/ arts_entertainment

By Aaron Ullman

Staff writer

Director debuts into fi lmworld with Queen of Play

This week, the Mary DAngelo Perform-ing Arts Center (PAC) Guelcher Film Seriesfeatures a French drama set amidst the sun-draped island of Corsica.

Queen to Play is the debut film of direc-tor Caroline Bottaro.

At the core of the film, is the vivid trans-formation of leading character Hlne, playedby actress Sandrine Bonnaire. Hlne is amiddle-aged, repressed yet intelligent woman

who works as a chambermaid in an exclusiveseaside hotel.

One morning, while at work, Hlnecomes upon a captivating American coupleplaying chess out in the terrace of their room.She becomes fascinated with the seductivemanner in which they move the pieces aboutthe board.

She notices that the woman seems to be

dominating the play. Thus, Hlne associateschess with the notion of romance and femi-nine power.

She develops an infatuation with the game, which she carries into her home when shegives her husband a chess set for his birth-day.

At the apparent uninterest of her husband,Hlne decides to take on the world of chess

by herself. She buys a book on the principlesof chess and begins to stay up late at nightlearning the games strategies.

The climax of the film unfolds when sheseeks the guidance of Krger, a reclusive

American doctor for whom she works clean-ing his respective house. Krger, played byactor Kevin Kline, was once a dexterouschess player. He begins to gradually pass hisknowledge and skills onto Hlne through

weekly chess lessons.Queen to Play will be shown on Wednes-

day, Dec. 7, in the PAC at 2:15 and 7:15 p.m.

Tickets are free for Mercyhurst studentswith an ID.

By Alejandra Zeron

Staff writer

By Marie Karbacka

Staff writer

8/3/2019 The Merciad, Dec. 7, 2011

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENTPage 8 December 7, 2011

Dancers bring holiday spirit tocampus with Tis the Season

This weekend, the Mercyhurst

College Dance Department willbring a festive holiday spirit tocampus by presenting a new con-cert titled Tis the Season.

Consisting of three differentpieces, The Skaters, A Multitudeof Angels and Santas Toy Shop,the concert showcases the Mercy-hurst dancers abilities in perform-ing a wide variety of dance styles.

Opening the performance isThe Skaters.

As its name implies, the number

features dancers who will skateacross the stage.

They will create various pattersof duos, trios and ensembles ulti-mately creating an ambiance ofoutdoor holiday magic.

The second piece of the pro-gram will feature the LiturgicalDance Ensemble performing thespiritually based work A Multitudeof Angels.

Dancers dressed in beautifulflowing skirts will create eye pleas-

ing movement patterns and inter-

esting formations.Finally to close the production,

the Mercyhurst Dancers will jazz itup in the colorful and cheerful workentitled Santas Toy Shop.

This highly entertaining number

is complete with dancing elves,flying reindeer, tap-dancing sol-diers, dolls and a cameo appearanceby Santa Claus.

Needless to say, this is sure tobe a favorite among the young andyoung at heart.

An interesting aspect about thisperformance is that the Mercyhurstdancers have been preparing for itthroughout the entire fall term.

Inevitably, the dancers have beengetting into the holiday spirit by

rehearsing to Christmas music sinceSeptember.

Nonetheless, performers such asjunior dance major Emma Rishelare anxiously anticipating the firstholiday concert.

I love the fact that the showcombines two of my favorite things,dancing and Christmas, said Rishel,

who portrays a flirtatious elf.Rishel added that she enjoys

dancing in Santas Toy Shopbecause it is amusing and requires a

high amount of energ y. Though the majority of dance

department shows are family-ori-ented, Tis the Season, is uniquein that it is geared specifically toyounger audiences.

According to Dance Depart-ment Chair Tauna Hunter, Tis

the Season is our holiday treat forErie, she said.

Were excited to do somethingespecially for children and theirfamilies that will highlight all thedelights of the holiday season.

Though the show may be gearedto children, all Mercyhurst studentsand dance enthusiasts are invitedand encouraged to attend this funand exciting event.

Performances of Tis theSeason will be held on Saturday,

Dec. 10, at 2 and 7 p.m. and Sunday,Dec. 11, at 2 p.m. in the MaryDAngelo Performing Arts Center.

It will include a festively decoratedtheater lobby, holiday music and cos-tumed dancers greeting the audiencebefore and after each performance.

Tickets are $3.50 for students with a Mercyhurst ID and can bepurchased from the box office bycalling 814-824-3000.

A preview performance will alsobe offered Friday, Dec. 9, at 4:30

p.m. with limited balcony seatingtickets available for $5.

By Ashley CookStaff writer

Tis the Season is unique in that it is geared specifically to younger audiences.

Contributed photo

Erie Opera TheatreBringing opera to the entire community

Throughout the year, Erie Opera Theatre produces

two operas: Menottis Amahl and the Night Visitors

around Christmas time, and another production in

the spring. All performances are free and open to

the public. Students from Mercyhurst College are

active in the organization, in roles ranging from per-

forming to administration.

Erie Opera Theatre is currently entered in a grant

contest in which they hope to win $10,000 to use

for their spring production of Donizettis Elixir of

Love. Help them out by going to ErieUChoose.com

and vote. You can vote once a day until Jan. 11.

They will be presenting their annual production of

Amahl and the Night Visitors on Dec. 17, at 7 p.m.

The show will be performed at Central Tech High

School. Admission is free.

8/3/2019 The Merciad, Dec. 7, 2011

9/12

Editors

Kelly Luoma

Alaina Rydzewski

Liz ZuraskyCaitlin Handerhan

Spencer Hunt

Alex Stacey

Chrissy Mihalic

Kaitlin Badger

Jill Barrile

Ethan Johns

Max Rivera

Bill Welch

@mercyhurst.edu

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The Merciad is the official student-produced newspaper of MercyhurstCollege. It is published throughout the school year, with the exception of

finals weeks. Our office is in Hirt, Room 120B. Our telephone number is(814) 824-2376.

The Merciad welcomes letters to the editor. All letters must be signedand 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. Lettersare due Mondays. by noon and may not be more than 300 words. Submit

letters to box PH 485 or via e-mail at opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

If you dont want it printed . . . dont let it happen.

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September 3, 2008 OPINION Page 9December 7, 2011The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the v iews of Mercyhurst College, the staff of The Merciad

or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are always welcomed and can be e-mailed to opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

Service trip made impression

We make a living by what we do,but a life by what we give.

This quote, by Sir Winston

Churchill, nicely sums up theschools annual pilgrimage to NewOrleans, La., over Thanksgivingbreak to assist in continuing reliefefforts for those affected by Hur-ricane Katrina.

I joined 14 other students and 3faculty members on this trip, where

we had the opportunity to witnessthe incredible amount of devasta-tion that remains even six yearsafter the storm and more impor-tantly, to help misplaced families

move forward on their long journeyto return home.

Our group spent four days work-ing on improving houses in dif-fering states of disrepair and alsojoined together with more than200 other volunteers to construct aplayground from scratch in just sixhours.

It was quite sobering to realizethat our work had barely scratchedthe surface and to see how muchstill needed to be done.

While its hard to choose myfavorite thing about the experience,

I think I can vouch for everyone who participated that the relation-ships we developed with the peopleof New Orleans and with each other

was an extraordinary highlight, andleft us all changed for good.

As any one who has done anytype of service can attest, this isprobably the most rewarding partof helping others.

Its the idea that no matter whatkind of car we drive, where we wentto school, the color of our skin orour personal beliefs, we are all con-nected to each other as humans. Bygiving freely of our own time andenergy, we strengthen that bond andopen ourselves up to be impactedby the stories and experiences ofoften-complete strangers.

Service also reminds us of whatis important in life in a way thatnothing else can. It shows us that

we should not focus on the size ofour houses, what type of phones orshoes we own or how much money

we have in the bank, but rather onthe love of those closest to us andon living each moment to its abso-lute fullest.

All of our material possessionswill come and go, but these intan-gibles of love and happiness are thethings that actually make our life

worth living, and we must see to itthat we preserve them in the same

way we take care of our favoriteclothes.

It is ironic that those who havethe least are the ones who seem tograsp this concept the best. The lessfortunate, like the family we had thepleasure to work with, whose home

was devastated by Katrina, seem tohave the greatest appreciation for

what they do have and remain posi-tive in the face of incredible chal-lenges.

These people are amazinglystrong and inspire us to be thank-ful for the great opportunities weare given each day and often takefor granted, including the chance tohave a college education.

Every second of this serviceexperience to New Orleans wasmemorable, and I commend ourService Learning Department andMercyhurst for giving students thechance to continue to travel thereand to so many other spots aroundthe globe.

These trips allow us to escapeour separate world inside the gatesof campus and connect with the

wider world.Its just another way Mercyhurst

sets itself apart from other schools,and I encourage everyone to takeadvantage of all the service trips

it has to offer they will definitelychange your life.

By Brian

Lombardo

Staff writer

Cultural ideals create unrealistic standards

Nineteen models, 21 makeupartists, almost 40 cans of hairspray,a $2.5 million diamond and jewel-encrusted bra, products exclusivelyfrom the Victorias Secret make-

up line and the combination ofthe fashion, makeup and celebrityperformances, helped to place thisyears Victorias Secret FashionShow on a grand scale.

On Tuesday, Nov. 29, I wasone of 10.3 million viewers thatindulged in one of televisions mostglamorous events, the VictoriasSecret Fashion Show. As I watchedthe models strut down the catwalk,

I became intrigued by the conceptof their figures.

Tracey Lomrantz, a New YorkCity-based writer, editor and styleeditor at Glamour magazine, notedthat its interesting how many

women say they use the show asa motivator to hit the gym or tofinally start their diets.

My question is, how is that inter-

esting? American women view thesegrotesquely thin models, begin tofeel incredibly self-conscious andthen strive to go to the gym anddiet, so that they too can appearsexy and appealing to men.

The attraction to womens bodiesis culturally constructed. Frombirth, women are conditioned tobecome beautiful, and that is par-tially defined as having completecontrol over ones body.

To be thin is the ultimate Ameri-can dream. But these standardscan be dangerous for women whoare heavier set, even with diet andexercise, and perpetuate the ideathat women are physical forms tobe molded into idealized shapes-defined by advertisers, nonetheless.

Why should women feel com-pelled to be stick-thin and unhealthy

looking? In the late 1950s andthroughout the 1960s, curves weresought after; clothing would bemodified to give the appearance ofhips, thighs and the like. Now today,

we strive for skin and bones.I recognize that obesity is a prob-

lem, but there is no cultural happymedium; women are either toofat or too thin. Furthermore, whathappened to the sexiness of intel-ligence, wit, depth and other similar

traits that are worth valuing? Shouldwe, the women of modern society,just forget these traits and forceourselves to attempt to obtain the

Victorias Secret model body?Stop looking in the mirror and

seeing the glass as half empty. Insteadof looking for flaws, embrace yourpositive characteristics and figureout ways to enhance them.

Lady Gaga, the queen of indi- viduality, dreams and self-love, isquoted saying, You have to beunique, and different and shine inyour own way, and I know for afact this is true.

If we keep falling under societalpressure, how are we going to be

viewed by future generations? Arewe going to continue down the pathof stick-figured women? Becauseif thats the case, then why bother

trying to find self-love?Lucille Ball once said, Love

yourself first and everything fallsinto line, which I find necessaryfor everyone to believe in.

I mean, you can call yourselfbeautiful, or think of yourself as ablob, dont let society have an effecton your own self-image. Youreeither going to love yourself, or not,

but whos to tell you what youresupposed to look like?

Society can think what they want,and once again, in the words ofLady Gaga, Well, thats your opin-ion, isnt it? And Im not about to

waste my time trying to change it.And we shouldnt try to change

societys view, we should live coun-ter to what societys view of per-fect and beautiful is, and learn toembrace ourselves.

By Jaslyne

Halter

Staff writer

8/3/2019 The Merciad, Dec. 7, 2011

10/12

September 3, 2008 OPINIONPage 10 December 7, 2011The views expressed in the opinion section of The Merciad do not necessarily reflect the v iews of Mercyhurst College, the staff of The Merciad

or the Catholic Church. Responses on any subject are always welcomed and can be e-mailed to opinionmerciad@mercyhurst.edu.

This Saturday, Dec.

10, marks Mercyhurstsannual Christmas on

Campus festivities in the

Student Union from 11

a.m. to 2 p.m.

At the womens hockey

game against Cornell last

week, students provoked

a number of Cornell par-

ents, sparking a shouting

match between the two

sections of spectators.

Students taking the

initiative to get a flu shot

from the Cohen Student

Health Center have com-

plained of a less-then-

gentle injection, resulting

in bruising on the upper

arm. At least the shot is

free.Online

When I talk to students about

what the occupation movement

is about, I keep getting different

explanations. This is because the

movement lacks structure and orga-

nization.

From an outside perspective

the demonstrators could easily be

written off as a rag-tag group of

frustrated and/or misguided losers

in search of someone to blame

for their own misfortune. For one

thing, they claim there are no jobs.

The job market is indeed difficult;

but no jobsI dont think so.

So I cant believe that they are

occupying for jobs. Even the sloganof the 99 percent is a misnomer.

According to the National Taxpay-

ers Union (ntu.org), the top one

percent of earners account for

36.73 percent of all federal income

tax.

In comparison, the bottom 50

percent of earners account for 2.25

percent of federal income tax. So

shouldnt we be thanking the top

1 percent for keeping the system

afloat?I was still confused about what

the occupation movement stood

for, so I went online to occupy-

wallst.org. According to the site, the

movement is challenging systems

of oppression in solidarity with

people who are most marginalized

by inequality, uniting to recognize

that economic exploitation impacts

all of us, reclaiming public space,

practicing direct democracy. The

system is broken; were building a

new one.

It sounds like an outline for eco-

nomic redistribution to me. But

should occupiers direct their anger

at corporations and the top 1 per-

cent? No. It isnt corporations that

created the problem in the firstplace, but rather the lax regulations

on the banking and housing indus-

try by the federal government.

But there is more to the problem

than this. What happened to the

old American mentality of pick-

ing oneself up by the bootstraps

and working your way up from the

bottom toward wealth? Apparently,

thats too much work for the occu-

pywallst.org crowd. Instead, they

would rather beg the governmentfor more welfare and entitlement

programs.

Of course, there are many among

us that are always inclined to take

the path of least resistance. Getting

money from the government is way

easier than working for it. Whatever

happened to the American belief

of manifest destiny; that nothing

is impossible, no barrier too large,

no enemy too great, no task too

immense? A half a century ago,such a belief still existed.

Among the illegalswho at great

personal risk cross our southern

borders in search of a better lifeit

still exists. They beg for a piece of

the American dream. But it clearly

does not exist with the denizens of

the filth ridden tent cities that are

the home bases of the occupation

movement. They are at best, the

noisy voice of the lesser-Americans

who expect everything and who in

return are willing to give nothing.

Fortunately, there is another

America. American soldiers give

everything (including, all too often,

their lives) and ask for nothing in

return except for respect for them-

selves and the flag for which theyfight.

So I started this article with the

question What should occupi-

ers occupy against? They should

occupy against the poor economic

and political system created by the

federal government. They should

occupy against Congress for behav-

ing like third graders. Occupy to

better America. Occupy for re-

industrialization.

For example, Black Friday mayhave been one of the single larg-

est transactions of wealth from the

U.S. to its foreign manufactures,

such as China.

Imagine if all the goods Ameri-

cans bought on Black Friday were

made in the U.S.? Good American

jobs would be in abundance. For-

eign companies dont have to give

up producing goods. Have them

bring their industry to the U.S.

Hyundai, a Korean based company,which manufactures over half of its

vehicles in the U.S., keeps Ameri-

cans employed and stimulates the

national economy. Why cant we

impose manufacturing quotas on

foreign industry?

Lastly, occupiers need to ask

themselves where is the leadership

in our country? According to his-

tory, the greatest leaders are born

from the greatest crisis. Examples

include Presidents George Washing-

ton, Abraham Lincoln and Franklin

Roosevelt. They all possessed great

intellect, an ability to effectively

communicate and a plan.

Well our current president is a

man of intellect, and he is an out-

standing communicator, but whereis his plan? Apparently, he has

none.

I believe that all Americans

should better themselves in order

to better the nation. It is our sacred

duty to protect democracy, not

destroy it. Occupiers blame every-

one but themselves for the poor

economy. Maybe they should pick

up a book in economics or history

and learn something about their

country before jumping on the 99percent bandwagon. Maybe they

should work to build rather than

destroy the nation that gives them

the opportunity to do or become

whatever they are willing to work to

become.

My home is in the suburbs

of Washington D.C. and during

Thanksgiving break I saw the dem-

onstrators in D.C. complaining, and

on a daily basis I saw the illegals

working. The paradox was not lost on

me. One group was busy detesting

itself and its country, and the other

group was busy working and saving

and building a life that was never

available to them in their countries

of origin. I ask youwho are the

good guys herethe workers or the

whiners?

By James Gallagher

Contributing writer

Occupy movement: winners or whiners?

merciad.mercyhurst.edu/

opinion

US-Pakistan relations strained

by Jerry Johnson

Contributing writer

8/3/2019 The Merciad, Dec. 7, 2011

11/12

Sports Page 11December 7, 2011

Strang provides stability for young mens team

Former standout Achesinski joins coaching staff

Following the conclusion of the

2010-11 season, the Mercyhurst

College womens basketball team

lost one of its best players in pro-

gram history to graduation.

Despite her graduation, former

Laker standout Amy Achesinski

wasnt going far. She moved from

the center of the Lakers defense to

the bench as an assistant coach.

She finished her career with1,704 points and 889 rebounds,

both ranking third all-time. Coach

Deanna Richards named her the

graduate assistant following her

senior season.

Achesinski has a bachelors

degree in marketing and is working

toward a masters degree in organi-

zational leadership.

Switching from a starter and

captain, a position she held during

the past three years, to coaching the

team and having authority was an

easy transition for Achesinski.

Having respect from the girlsalready and having a coaching-like

role my senior year I was already

comfortable with everyone and my

team. It was really fun, new and

exciting for me, she said.

Choosing Mercyhurst over a

number of Division 1 schools,

Achesinski was excited to help build

up the womens basketball program,

and she can continue to help from

the bench.

I didnt want to be a little fish ina big pond at a Division 1 school.

I knew coming here I would have

an impact in some way. Plus I fell

in love with the campus, so it was

hard to think about another school

once I saw Mercyhurst, Achesin-

ski said.

The transition from taking the

shots in the game to drawing up the

plays for someone else is a unique

experience, but one Achesinski wel-

comes.Its an awesome experience. Im

really happy I got to come back and

spend more time here, and the girls

were so glad that I was staying, shesaid.

Achesinski was a significant link

to the success of the program and

is an important addition to the

coaching staff.

With 13 prestigious awards such

as 2010-11 WBCA All-America

Honorable Mention, 2010-11 All-

PSAC West First Team and 2010-

11 Division II Bulletin All-America

Honorable Mention, Achesinski

has the experience and pedigree tohelp take the team to the top of its

game.

Achesinskis determination and

experience is more than just an

addition to the coaching staff, its a

benefit for the women on the team

as well.

The most rewarding experience

is working on the court with the

girls and seeing how they respond

to what I say, said Achesinski. Its

like magic seeing them achieve allthey can be.

By Samantha BanteContributing writer

Heading into this season, the

Mercyhurst mens hockey team had

a number of question marks on

the roster. With 12 freshmen and

a number of others stepping into

new roles, there was an expected

transition period.

Thanks to the recruiting and

coaching of Head Coach RickGotkin, the learning curve has gone

faster than anticipated, four games

to be exact.

After opening the season 0-4, the

Lakers churned out four straight

victories. The first victory came

against Atlantic Hockey Association

(AHA) preseason No. 1 Rochester

Institute of Technology (RIT).

The key to that victory was

senior goaltender Max Strang, who

stopped 49 of 50 shots en route toa 2-1 win.

Since the RIT game, Strang has

been stellar. The Lakers have gone

7-3-2 over that time span.

Its been a lot of fun, and Ihave guys in front of me who work

really hard, which makes my job a

lot easier, Strang said.

Gotkin has been pleased with

the play of his senior goaltenderthis season.

Every great team has a great

goaltender, and Max has been

great, Gotkin said. Max is the

center of our universe.Despite an unassuming 7-7-2

overall record, Strangs importance

goes much deeper.

When looking at only AHA

opponents, Strangs brilliance shinesthrough. He has posted a .957 save

percentage and allowed only 1.63

goals per contest. His play has put

the Lakers within two points of the

AHA lead.

We have had a good start, but

we still have a long way to go,

Gotkin said.

Statistics aside, Strang has evolved

into a leader for a young team.

Strang attributes his success to

new assistant coach and formerLaker goaltender Peter Aubry.

Peter Aubry has been instru-

mental in helping me out and get-

ting me to where I am, Strang

said.

The Lakers have looked solid

since the first four games.

I just want to keep giving us a

chance to win every night and to

work hard, Strang said.

Strang and the Lakers hope to

continue their strong conferenceplay as they take on Canisius in Buf-

falo Friday night, then travel back to

Erie to face Niagara at 7 p.m.

By Spencer HuntSports editor

Senior goaltender Max Strang has evolved into the backbone of the Lakers defense. With a

.957 save percentage in conference, the Lakers are second in the AHA.

Sarah Hlusko photo

The Lakers were able to retain the services of one of the best

players in program history in Amy Achesinski, center. Rank-

ing third in all-time points and rebounds, Achesinski has the

experience as a player to bring that perspective to the Laker

coaching staff.

Jill Barrile photo

8/3/2019 The Merciad, Dec. 7, 2011

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Sports December 7, 2011Page 12

Bram sisters join forces on Lakers top line

For three years, Bailey Bram has

been on her own, playing hockey

and going to school a long way

from home.

Little sister Shelby has been

watching her big sister play on the

internet from their home in St.

Anne, Manitoba, while playing for a

local team coached by her dad.

This year is different for both the

Bram sisters, with Shelby joining

Bailey on the Mercyhurst womens

ice hockey team. This year marks

the first time in their careers that

the Brams have been able to play

on the same team.

Having Bailey on the team has

helped Shelby in her transition into

the world of Division 1 hockey.

Ever since Bailey was a fresh-

man, I would hear stories about the

school and how much she lovedeverything, and I wanted to follow

in her footsteps, Shelby said.

Having already established her

place on the team as one of the

leaders and best players, Bailey

offered a lot of experience to pass

on to her sister.

I think me being here helps her

to learn things on the ice, Bailey

said. Its different though, because

I feel like I have to be in big sister

mode all the time, but I love herbeing here.

Shelby welcomed the reunion

with her sister and looked forward

to finally playing with Bailey.

It has been really fun to play

with her and learn the ropes, but

she also helps with my classes too,

Shelby said of Bailey. Whenever I

am down, she always knows how to

pick me up.

To add to the reunion, Coach

Michael Sisti put the sisters on the

same line.When I knew she was coming

here, I secretly hoped to be on the

same line, Bailey admitted.

Despite being a few years apart in

age, the sisters say there isnt much

of a sibling rivalry.

We have been best friends since

we were little, so its just fun to be

here with her, Bailey said.

So far, the transition has been

smooth for both Brams.

Bailey currently leads the team inpoints, goals and assists and ranks

fifth nationally in points. Shelby

is currently fifth on the team in

points, which is tied for the most

among her freshman class.

The sisters have also won awards

together. For the month of Novem-

ber, Bailey took home Conference

Hockey America (CHA) player of

the month honors, while Shelby

won CHA rookie of the month.

Despite only a year to playtogether, with Bailey due to gradu-

ate in May, the Brams are making

the most of their time together.

Shelby is so new and brings a lot

of excitement to the team, and she

makes it a lot of fun to play with,

Bailey said.

Hopefully, the Bram-to-Bram

connection can bring home another

CHA Championship this year. They

take to the ice with the rest of the

Lakers Friday and Saturday againstNo. 4 Boston College.

By Spencer HuntSports editor

Sisters Bailey and Shelby Bram have created a formidable duo

on the Lakers top offensive line. Bailey leads all Lakers in

points, and Shelby is tied for fifth.

Jill Barrile photos

Shelby BramBailey Bram