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(04/11/12 8:08pm)
On Monday, April 2 the Southern Studies Program on Civil War Memory featured a lecture by author Robert Cook, from the University of Sussex, in the Medical School Auditorium.
The author of Troubled Commemoration hosted a lecture entitled Civil War Centennial: Historical Commemoration in the Age of Civil Rights and the Cold War.
Cook highlighted how the Civil War commemoration never lived up to its promise, while addressing key historical figures who contributed to the council started by President Dwight Eisenhower.
“The most sanguinary event in America’s history…How on earth could a commemoration of this conflict be conceived as a means of fostering American unity in the place of being communist threat?,” said Cook during his introduction.
“The second thing I want to do is to show why the centennial failed to live up to its initial promise…Lastly, I will try to assess the deeper significance of an even that has been neglected by historians,” added Cook.
“So the first question. Why did many Americans in the middle of the 20th century consider a particularly destructive conflict a source of potential unity in the midst of the Cold War? What on earth is going on here?” said Cook.
This lecture is part of a series entitled the Lamar Lectures, which is presented each year.
The Lamar Lectures are made possible by the request of the late Eugenia Dorothy Blount Lamar in 1957.
The lecture series seeks to promote the preservation of Southern culture and history.
The Lamar Lectures is recognized as one of the most important series on Southern history and literature in the United States.
Past speakers have included nationally and internationally known scholars, some of which include Cleanth Brooks, James C. Cobb and Eugene Genovese.
All of the lectures are original and are published as books by the University of Georgia Press.
Two years ago, the board selected Gary Gallagher to be the keynote speaker for the lectures this year.
The committee wanted to build around the Lamar Lectures in order to create a broader conversation about the contemporary memory of the Civil War.
“We approached the Georgia Humanities Council about sponsoring a series of lectures, and Lauren McCarty at the Humanities Council suggested Robert Cook in particular, and we followed her suggestion and arranged for him to speak at Mercer, Georgia College and State University,” said Dr. David Davis.
Davis believes that overall the lecture fared well.
He hopes that the lecture served to examine the way federally appointed Civil War Centennial Commission hosted the public commemoration of the Civil War and then the Civil Rights Movement and the Cold War.
Davis said that the commemoration was one “that came and racialized a solidified event that polarized the public as much or more than it unified it.”
“Overtime, the commission was revamped to feature the work of several historians, but by that time America had mostly lost interest in the centennial commission. Which, the fascinating story about the way memory, commemoration, America’s Civil War past and America’s racial past interacts with the needs and ambitions of life,” said Davis.
On April 14, the Southern Studies Program will feature Ernest Gaines, winner of the Sidney Lanier Prize for Southern literature.
Gaines will give a public reading in the University Center on Saturday at 3:00 p.m.
(02/22/12 9:54pm)
Recently becoming a new Mercer tradition, Stompfest has provided a stage for step teams to compete. Mercer held the competition, sponsored and hosted by Quadworks and the National Pan Hellenic Council (NPHC), on Feb. 11 at the Grand Opera House. Stompfest is a competition between step teams and Greek organizations across the state, as well as other on campus student organizations. Mercer organizations collaborate during the intermission segment of the competition to hold bragging rights all year long. Meanwhile, outside Greek organizations compete for a cash prize in both the men’s and women’s categories.Students and community members attend the event to watch the talents of various step teams performed by a number of schools.Junior Breyana Davis, a member of QuadWorks planned the competition, and sent out applications to state schools earlier in the year. “We sent out applications to Greek organizations, non-Greek organizations…basically anyone who has a step team. We followed up with teams in December and January (to ensure that they were still competing),” said Davis. QuadWorks sent out applications to almost every school in Georgia, as well as others from South Carolina and Florida.During the intermission competition, several organizations partnered with one another in order to promote Greek unity. “Our intermission show is designed to get the NPHC Greeks involved with the Pan-Hellenic and Interfraternity Council, to promote Greek unity. That is why there is always that big competition, because everyone is just trying to win and get bragging rights,” said Davis.This year was the first to garner a crowd filled with mostly non-Mercer students, and it was also the first year to have all of the members of the Divine Nine Greek Organizations in attendance. This year, there were five teams who participated for the cash prize. Taking home the men’s award was Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. from Albany State University and garnering the women’s prize was Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. from Georgia Southern University.The winning teams were awarded $1500.During the intermission part of the show, the Pan-Hellenic Council and IFC usually join forces with one of the NPHC Greeks that they have worked with in the past. The winner for this year’s intermission show was Lamda Chi Alpha, Chi Omega and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.Junior Morgan Robinson was excited for their third title in a row, and was excited to partner with Lamda Chi Alpha and Chi Omega once again.“They are just good company to have. It is really just to branch out beyond NPHC,” said Robinson.Although they did not win the intermission segment of Stompfest, the partnership between Alpha Gamma Delta and Omega Psi Phi was a crowd pleaser. “Our particular show incorporated a lot of different people including Alphas, Kappas and Omegas. We had representation from each organization teach the ‘signature’ moves from the fraternities,” said senior and Alpha Gamma Delta member Kathleen Richardson. Many of the competing organizations during the intermission included the “signature moves.”“Working with the Ques was really amazing. They were so supportive of the ladies that participated and helped whenever they could,” said Richardson.Davis hopes that eventually, Mercer NPHC Greeks will be able to participate in the competition. “This year alone, we just had issues trying to get teams,” said Davis. She also added that the Deltas and Ques were among the Greek organizations not represented during this year’s competition. “Since NPHC is helping to sponsor it, I feel like Mercer should be allowed to compete even if they have to partner up with another chapter,” added Davis.Mercer students, Quadworks and NPHC hope to continue to plan and hope to make Stompfest a longstanding Mercer tradition.
(02/22/12 9:49pm)
The Organization of Black Students (OBS) aims to unite not only students of African descent, but all students as a whole.
As President, senior Jasmine Fuller has been involved with OBS since her freshman year, and saw that there were some changes that she wanted to implement during her term. “Things that I saw from previous years were the programs that were put on. I saw how some worked and some didn’t work as well. Changes that I want make is to have an increase in participation at those events and programs, and to let people know that we are not just here for black people. We are here for everybody,” uttered Fuller.
In the past, OBS has hosted events and even partnered with other student organizations such as the National Pan-Hellenic Council Greeks and Delta Sigma Pi.
“We do events such as poetry slams and paintballing,” said Co-Vice President Tia Jacobs. Jacobs also stated that these events promote unity and allow everyone to get together.
“There is only so much that we can do, so it helps to partner with organizations,” urged Jacobs.
Last year, OBS partnered with Campus Life to host the event “Our President is Black, Now What?”
This semester, OBS has had four successful events alone, most of which were featured during the month of February in honor of Black History Month.
The event featured attending church on Sunday, Black History Month trivia on Monday and they wrapped up the week with a movie night featuring the film Ghosts of Mississippi. OBS provided this event in order for students to become aware of non-mainstream historical African-American figures.
Although this organization hosts and promotes great events, they admit that their biggest problem is low student turnout. The group has nearly 50 members, but only 10 members who participate consistently.
When asked how this week fared in comparison with others, Fuller admits that it was better.
“It was a little bit better than others, sometimes we have zero people come. So, just having five people was good,” said Fuller.
Jacobs also utters the same sentiments. “I don’t know what it is about this year, but people are really staying in their rooms,” Jacobs said jokingly.
The final event that the group will host this semester will be the talent showcase at the end of March. “Different groups perform and show of their talent, whether it is singing, dancing, poetry or spoken word,” said Fuller.
The winner of the talent showcase will be chosen by the crowd, and given a prize.
There is no fee to enter into the competition, so all students are encouraged to sign up.
The executive board and the members of OBS want to find something that is interesting to students in hopes of drawing a larger crowd. “We need ideas. We can’t think for the whole (student) body. We want your input, so tell us what would bring you out,” said Jacobs.
OBS encourages all students to come out and support their initiatives and events.
(02/09/12 12:36am)
The Mercer Chapter of Habitat for Humanity received two national grants from State Farm to contribute to their annual Mercer Build.
“The grant was worth five thousand dollars, if we are able to raise that much then will receive the matching amount. That will be a total of ten thousand dollars to go toward the Mercer build. We also won a separate one thousand dollar grant for a revitalization project that we are doing in Lynmore Estates,” said chapter President Thomaesa Brundage.
After learning about the opportunity from Macon Area Habitat’s Jim Mercer, Development Director, the chapter applied for the grants the previous school year, and received notification that the funds would be available for the housing project Mercer Habitat funds each year.
In order to be eligible to apply for the grant, Mercer Habitat had to complete a rigorous process noting all of the organization’s fundraising activities on campus, and the active role the chapter played within their community. Unlike many grant application processes, Mercer Habitat did not have to write a grant application, but fill out a survey instead. The questions are open-ended, as the application asked for short response of at least 500 words to each question.
“We had to complete a phone interview with the people from Habitat for Humanity International, the executive director of Macon Area Habitat (Harold Tessendorf), faculty advisor (David Good) and myself as President of the Mercer Chapter,” said Thomaesa Brundage. “They ask us different questions like how we plan on raising the money, what sort of advocacy we do, how active we are on campus, as well as different ways to gauge the role we play on campus as far as leadership roles.”
As part of the terms of the grant, the chapter has to host a publicity event with a regional representative from State Farm in attendance to speak on the achievements of Mercer Habitat. The organization hopes to accomplish this with their annual faculty luncheon on February 22.
The purpose of the luncheon is to raise funds to go toward the Mercer build, and to also raise the five thousand dollars to contribute to the State Farm Matching Grant. We just want to make sure that the faculty and staff understand what Habitat for Humanity is, as well as the event being a promotional and awareness raising opportunity.
“We want to let them know more about us, so that they will be willing to give. We also want to use this event to let the faculty and staff know what initiatives we are doing on campus and in the community, in order to raise more funds for this organization,” said Brundage.
Mercer Habitat for Humanity is expecting to have at least 75 faculty and staff in attendance at the luncheon to be held later this month at noon in the Religious Life Center.
When asked about the recognition of their efforts, Brundage said, “It makes me feel really good, because we do a lot of hard work for Habitat for Humanity, and that we are being recognized and having these financial contributions given to us. At the end of the day, I know that the money will go towards building a house for someone who does not already have one. It makes our job a little bit easier, because it helps us move toward the goal of eliminating poverty housing one house at a time.”
(11/02/11 10:01pm)
The Sex Trafficking Opposition Project (S.T.O.P) was originally founded as a project for a First Year Seminar class in 2008. This organization’s goal is to help to combat human trafficking in the Macon Area, Georgia and throughout the United States.
There is no specific age that human trafficking targets, yet it is estimated that the average age of those being trafficked is between the ages of 11 and 13 years old.
This statistic has impassioned President Jaclyn Levin to enact change. “This is children. The idea that someone would be forced to prostitute themselves is to me just completely insane. I couldn’t believe that this happens in the United States. This happens to 300,000 U.S. kids. That to me is just outrageous. Once I knew about the issue, it was just something that I could not leave alone or do something about,” said Levin.
About S.T.O.P, Levin said, “Since its founding, we have had local ordinances passed so that massage parlors no longer operate as brothels. This is sort of why the group started, because we noticed this massage parlor problem that we had in Macon.”
The organization had ordinances passed so that the massage parlors were mandated to become licensed. The ordinances also allowed for Macon police to become trained in efforts to stop human trafficking. The police are trained on what to look for and how to question subjects properly.
“We got the police trained so that they knew what trafficking was, and not just arrest the girls for being prostitutes. What happens then is that the pimps come and bail them out. It is just an endless cycle,” said Levin.
Due to the efforts of the Mercer S.T.O.P organization, two girls have been saved from the cycle of human trafficking.
The largest initiative for the organization this year is having students switch their voter registration from their hometown to Macon. “We want to go to see council meetings, because we’ve found that the ordinances that we helped get passed are not being enforced. So, we want to go to city council meetings and ask why they aren’t enforcing them. It would sort of be improper to go, and not be voting citizens of Macon,” said Levin.
There will be a table set up in the Connell Student Center in the upcoming weeks to ensure that the conversion process is simple and easy for students.
Other ongoing initiatives include having a Super Bowl tailgate in February to raise awareness about the vast number of people that are trafficked during these big events. “There are so many people there that it is a spike in demand in the area where the event is hosted. So we would like to have an awareness event. It will be a Super Bowl party, but also educate others that they should be aware that this happens at these events,” said Levin.
Mercer S.T.O.P has partnered with similar organizations from Wesleyan and Macon State, and hope to attend the city council meetings as a collective unit in the near future.
Levin suggests that the best thing students can do to get involved would be to switch their voter registration and attend the city council meetings. “Having that voice in the government is more powerful than students think,” said Levin.
(10/19/11 11:15pm)
Throughout the years, the Mercer Players have continued to entertain students and faculty with their talents through plays and musicals.
“I would say the goals and objectives are fostering an environment of theater appreciation and information where we would work together as a group to enhance our craft, so that we can be productive actors, actresses and technicians when we graduate,” said senior co-president Kyle Shook.
This year, the organization hosts bi-weekly studio events where students may attend in order to strengthen their theatrical talents. These classes serve as a platform where students can rehearse monologues, perform musical theater numbers and play improvisational games.
“We are just enhancing the processes so that we can work constructively as a group to make everyone better,” said Shook.
The organization is also looking forward to incorporating nights that are specifically tailored to different aspects of theater, such as dance night.
This semester, the Mercer Players are performing both Alice in Wonderland and Ye Gods. Alice in Wonderland will be produced at the Grand Opera House, which is a part of their children’s theater program.
“We are working on Ye Gods, written and directed by Kyle Shook. That will be [performed] November 30 through December 3 in the Backdoor Theater,” said junior secretary Suzanne Stroup.
The play, which is seven vignettes, deals with interactions between humans and the divine. “It wrestles with questions of faith, questions of practicing faith and questions of the history of where we are now in terms of spirituality as humanity. It is also funny, because it ultimately is a comedy with philosophical undertones” said Shook.
Shook wrote the play as a requirement for a playwriting course during his earlier years at Mercer. He wrestled with questions such as: why people have the faith that they have, and what are elements that are universal to faith?
“However, what prompted me to want to write a play about this was when a pastor in Florida wanted to burn Korans, although it was very misguided of him. I thought it was an appropriate time to explore why people act the way they do through faith, or why people do not act the way that they should through faith,” said Shook.
Theater was a part of fate for these two Mercer Players, both participating in theater at an early age.
“I wanted to go to soccer camp when I was little, and my parents put me in theater camp. It has just been kind of a life-long love affair for me,” said Stroup.
“When I was little, I always really loved doing theater. I asked to go to theater camp, and my parents told me that I was playing basketball instead. I did basketball for six years, and when I was in middle school I started doing plays, because that is what I wanted to do,” said Shook.
Students looking for a creative release are sure to be a perfect fit for this organization. Mercer Players are looking for “anybody that just wants to play and have fun with us,” exclaimed Stroup.
(10/05/11 9:54pm)
According to Chinese Legend, 2,000 years ago there lived a noble man who was favored by many. In his attempt to give advice to the king, he was rejected and banished from the court.
Troubled by the atrocities taking place, the noble man jumped into a river and took his life. Fisherman raced their boats to save him, but arrived too late. Today, the Dragon Boat Festival serves as a re-enactment of that fateful day.
The event, hosted at the site of the 1996 Summer Olympic Games rowing and paddling events, featured an opening ceremony with monks dotting the eye of the dragon and bringing it to life.
Filled to capacity this year, the Atlanta Dragon Boat Festival is hoping to make the festival a two-day long event next year.
The festival, held every year at Lake Lanier, features breast cancer awareness organizations and competitive teams that participate in the 250 meter race.
Members of the Mercer Asian Society and Interest Association (ASIA) participated in the 15th annual Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival, placing fifth in the collegiate level.
Mei Lin, president of Mercer Asia, said, “I heard about it through friends who went to other schools. They were talking about the Dragon Boat Festival, and I thought hey why doesn’t Mercer do this? This sounds interesting.”
Only the top six schools were ranked, which included: Kennesaw State, Georgia Perimeter, Georgia Tech, The University of Georgia, Gwinnett Technical College and Mercer University.
Mercer ASIA vice president Ashley Chackalayil said, “One of our main goals was doing the dragon boat festival, and thankfully we accomplished that. When people think of Asia they only think China. We want them to realize that there is a huge variety of countries in Asia.”
Mercer ASIA aims to incorporate the Asian culture within the Mercer community.
“We felt like Mercer was lacking an Asian club, because Georgia Tech, The University of Georgia and a lot of big schools have it. It is for students who are interested in the Asian culture. We felt like Mercer needed more culture,” said Chackalayil.
Started just last January, Mercer ASIA has hosted events such as sushi night and the mid-Autumn festival.
“People came and made their own sushi roll and then we watched an Asian movie. We celebrated the Chinese New Year when we first started the club in January,” said Lin.
Chinese New Year is considered one of the most important traditional Chinese holidays. In China it is known as “Spring Festival.:
This organization is not limited to their on-campus endeavors, as they continuously play an active role by participating in initiatives off campus as well.
With nearly 23 members participating in the festival, the organization was surprised at their win.
“We did not stay until the end, so we did not find out we placed until the next day,” said Lin.
Mercer ASIA hopes to spread awareness about their initiatives on campus through this victory.
“Other than celebrate the different holidays in the Asian culture, we want to help the community as well. We really want to get our name out there,” said Lin.
Support this budding organization as they continue to incorporate cultural diversity on campus!
(09/22/11 1:38am)
Junior volleyball player Charlayna Braxton enjoys the team aesthetic the Mercer volleyball team offers. The Powder Springs native sat down with The Cluster to answer a few questions.
Cluster: When did you first begin playing volleyball?
Braxton: I began playing volleyball in middle school. When I tried out for junior varsity in ninth grade, we had a new coach. One day she pulled me over and said, “You are playing varsity.” She saw my potential, and I have been loving volleyball ever since.
C: Did you play any other sports in high school?
B: Yes; I was really good at track. I pretty much thought that I was going to college for track. The team aspect changed that for me. In track, if you are good, you are good. In volleyball you need six people to win.
C: Before attending Mercer, you attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham; what factor made you want to make a change?
B: Definitely the team and the coach. I did not really mesh as well with the team. It was kind of like a bunch of individuals. At Mercer, I loved how the coach had so much energy and she actually loves what she does.
C: How do you feel the coaching styles differed as far as helping your game to improve?
B: She (Coach Rooke) is definitely more vibrant and excited about what she does. We still get excited and encourage each other versus just doing your job.
C: How do you prepare for a game? Do you have a pre-game ritual?
B: We usually go into our team room and we blast music really loud.
We usually play songs by LMFAO and weird techno music.
C: What is one thing that Coach Rooke has told you that has stuck with you?
B: Believe in Mercer Volleyball. Our record does not show how much work we have done. Every year she never gives up, and she keeps on [encouraging] us to be better. Although our record is 2-8, we love what we do. We represent what we do, because we know the hard work we put into it. We are not ashamed, because we know we are working hard. We beat the University of Georgia, so it shows that we are working.
C: Who are some of your favorite professional volleyball players?
B: Definitely Misty May and Kerri Walsh. I know a lot of people say that, but they are just awesome. The way they played during their college careers and played with such finesse, you can tell they are just like regular people. They still celebrate and cheer for each other. They are not so robotic and cocky.
C: What are some personal goals that you have set for yourself this season?
B: I want to be an offensive and defensive threat on the court. That is my job as a middle blocker, and that means getting a great number of blocks and kills. I want us to also make it to the conference finals, and we have a great opportunity to than ever before.
Support the Lady Bears on Sept. 23 as they take on Lipscomb in their first conference matchup of the season. It is one of two consecutive matchups versus conference opponents at home that weekend (the other being Belmont).
(09/21/11 10:05pm)
The National Pan-Hellenic Conference (NPHC) at Mercer held their annual NPHC unity week Sept. 12-16 to raise awareness about their initiatives on campus.
NPHC is an organization comprised of the Divine Nine fraternities and sororities, five of which are represented at Mercer University.
Shedrick Martin, president of the Mercer NPHC chapter, references the creation of NPHC as a way to provide unity between all of the organizations and to create ways that would allow each organization to be involved and work as a collective unit.
The purpose of unity week was to give Mercer students the opportunity to gain more information about NPHC organizations and their membership intake processes.
Vice President of Mercer NPHC, Morgan Ashley, states that the NPHC still has the same goals of brotherhood, sisterhood, scholarship and service as Pan-Hellenic and Interfraternity Council. However, NPHC does not rush.
The week also served to show the unity established among the representative fraternities and sororities within the NPHC council at Mercer.
“Each day is hosted by a different organization, but each organization has its part in making the program work, function and run smoothly,” said Martin.
The week’s events featured: Why We Don’t Rush, NPHC mixer, game night, field day and a step show.
The step show was the highlight of the week, being the event that most Mercer students look forward to. “The step show is something that we always put on, and what we are specifically known for,” said Ashley.
Last year, each organization did their individual program during the week. “It was not as if
NPHC as a whole did a program each day. So now it shows a little more cohesiveness,” said Martin.
Favored events in previous years have included Why We Don’t Rush, an annual step show competition and a Greek skit. Listing the skit among his favorite activities, Martin says, “It was just a way to show that Mercer Greeks can come together, and the stereotypes that you believe are not always true.”
In past years, Martin admits that the NPHC was disorganized, but hopes to change that during his term as president. Martin has restructured the council and the way it runs. “We have created a strict judicial system, more organized paperwork, membership intake system and a more efficient way of managing the organizations by the council itself,” said Martin.
Ashley suggests promoting philanthropic issues such as cancer awareness to install the changes NPHC wishes to make this year.
The NPHC gathered a large group to participate in Be a Good Neighbear on Saturday to take part in volunteering initiatives.
Martin hoped that this week would allow other Greek organizations to view their presence on campus.
“As a small community, it shows that we can have a presence on this campus and get everyone involved. We can get out and have fun and do something positive at and around Mercer. This shows that it is not all fun and games; we do give back. We do have the opportunity to give of ourselves, besides putting on a show,” said Martin.
(04/27/11 11:57pm)
Head volleyball coach Noelle Rooke led her Lady Bears through a tough schedule this season. While preparing for the emerging sand volleyball team, Coach Rooke sat down with The Cluster to answer a few questions.
Cluster: Although your team had a tough schedule this season, what changes do you hope to implement next season?
Rooke: I scheduled a very tough non-conference schedule. We opened up the season playing the University of Washington, who is ranked number eight in the nation. We had a very tough non-conference schedule in the hopes that it would prepare us for conference, which in return it did. We had a winning record in the conference tournament and were very successful. As far as changes for next year, I just dialed it down a little bit. We are still playing some of the powerhouses, just maybe not as tough.
C: How did you first get started playing volleyball?
R: I was born and raised in California, so I grew up on the beach and used to play soccer and volleyball. I started playing sand volleyball before I ever stepped foot indoors. I am excited to coach both next school year, with sand volleyball being the newest NCAA emerging sport. I get to coach both and have players play indoor volleyball in the fall and sand volleyball in the spring.
C: What will be your outline for the upcoming sand volleyball program?
R: Ten of the girls on the team will end up being dual athletes. With sand volleyball you have to have five teams, with two players per team. I have a couple of current returns who I know will be playing on the sand (volleyball) team, as well as my incoming players.
C: How does playing sand volleyball differ in strategy versus indoor volleyball?
R: They are two completely different sports. You have the climate that plays a huge factor, with the sun and the wind. With only having two players it forces each girl to be better all around. In return, that will help them be better for indoor.
C: Is there a motto that you coach by?
R: If you ask any player on my team they would tell you my motto is honesty is the best policy. I am very big on trying to mold my student-athletes to be good people, as well as good students and athletes. I ask every one of my players to maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher, which will look better when you graduate and go on to post-graduate schools and jobs. We are also very big on competing. I am very big on these girls competing at the highest level that they can to be the best that they can for this program.
C: Who has influenced you the most in your career as a volleyball coach?
R: My college coach was a big influence on me. She is the one who saw the characteristics in me to be a good coach. I also have some professional athletes within the sport of volleyball that I look up to, such as Misty May. I think that they have definitely represented themselves well for our sport, and they are huge role models for me.
Mercer students have something to look forward to as its newest sport, sand volleyball, commences in the spring of next year.
(04/27/11 11:57pm)
A native of Ontario, Canada, sophomore Kaitlin Marrin journeyed to the United States to play golf at the collegiate level.
Cluster: How old were you when you first began playing golf?
Marrin: I started late. I began playing when I was 15. I played other sports beforehand, so learning how to pick up the game was pretty easy.
C: How does the culture around golf differ in Canada versus the United States?
M: Canadians love golf. As soon as the weather gets warm that is all they want to do. We want to just go and hang out in the sun for as long as we can, because we will probably only have about six months of nice weather before you really can’t play golf. That is really the only difference. We are just excited about it.
C: When you took a year off from school, in what areas did you improve your game?
M: Definitely mentally. It was really tough living in Florida on my own without my parents. It was a big difference coming down to a different nation. I learned a lot, like how to make different shots happen and play a lot smarter golf. I just grew more mature as a player and an individual.
C: Where do you see golf taking you in the future? Do you hope to either coach or play professionally?
M: It would be cool to play professionally, because if you can have a job and get paid for doing something you love that would be great. I don’t know if I could coach it. We have some girls on our team who could coach, and they do help the other players on the team. However, maybe something in the golf industry such as marketing or working for the golf channel would be really cool.
C: Your team has played fairly well this season. To what do you attribute that success?
M: We have some really good incoming players, and we always get along really well. We are a really close-knit team and hang out outside of the golf course. That really helps, and it brings a joy to competitive golfing.
C: What is one thing your coach has tried to stress to the team this season?
M: He was really all about focus and trusting yourself. My putting average went down and he has done a great job this semester. It is the best season I have had so far, and his methods have really worked. We really worked hard and stayed focused.
C: Is there a pre-game ritual that you do to get prepared and focused?
M: I like to be quiet in the morning before we play. I probably won’t talk to anyone very much. I will head over to the tee 15 minutes early even most girls will head over six to eight minutes early.
C: Who is your favorite professional player?
M: My favorite is always going to be Tiger Woods. I don’t care what anyone says. I love him and I want him to be good.
(04/27/11 11:45pm)
Mercer University’s Physical Plant department is planning to remove hazardous asbestos materials from on-campus buildings during the final weeks of the semester.
Newly constructed buildings pose little to no risk of containing asbestos, but older campus buildings pose a greater risk of containing asbestos and asbestos related materials.
Director of Mercer University’s Physical Plant Russell Vullo suggests that the materials have been in campus buildings for years.
“Asbestos was a common construction material and has been in the building since it was constructed,” Vullo said.
In the upcoming weeks Mercer University plans to complete a removal, or abatement, of Willet Science Center. Three Heating Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) units containing asbestos are due to be replaced during the summer term.
The process will take an estimated two weeks to complete, and will only be scheduled when the building is unoccupied. Renovations to other sites on campus containing the mineral fiber will be completed over time on an as needed basis.
Asbestos containing materials will be managed and protected until a removal date is scheduled.
The State of Georgia Environmental Protection Division has been notified on the abatement project, as required by law. The Physical Plant department takes aims to see that the asbestos abatement process meets federal and state codes from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency.
In order to ensure the safety of Mercer faculty and staff, Vullo urges that no one disturb asbestos containing material. This can include but is not limited to insulation, carpeting, adhesives and tiles.
“As long as the asbestos is not disturbed or made friable there is no health risk,” said Vullo.
Dean of the Mercer University School of Medicine Dr. William Bina III states that the health risks posed are often seen overtime. “Health risks occur when asbestos fibers are inhaled over a long time period and are not likely from a single exposure. Diseases occur late in life up to 25 years or more, and result in mesothelioma, lung cancer or pneumoconiosis (lung disease),” said Bina.
The signs and symptoms after exposure include chronic cough, chest pain and shortness of breath. All of which should “prompt a visit to one’s personal physician who can then initiate an investigation of the problem,” said Bina.
“The health effects of asbestos occur many years after exposure, usually decades,” said Associate Professor of Pathology for Mercer School of Medicine, Jerome Tift , M.D. Tift states that these symptoms usually manifest themselves as fibrosis of the lungs or abnormalities related to the lungs and chest wall.
Those who come in constant contact with the material should exercise extreme caution. “Special respiratory masks are available and should be used if asbestos fibers are present in the air. After exposure, absolutely one must stop smoking and receive routine screening examinations as determined by the personal physician,” said Bina.
The Mercer University Physical Plant adds that “In addition, Mercer uses licensed and certified abatement contractors to properly abate asbestos containing materials,” said Vullo.
(04/13/11 3:14pm)
A native of Quito, Ecuador, senior Fernando Armendaris traveled to America to follow his passion for playing tennis.
Cluster: How did you first get involved playing tennis?
Armendaris: Both of my parents are tennis players. When I was five years old they took me to a tennis academy in Ecuador. When I was twelve years old I really got into it and started being competitive.
C: How does tennis in America differ from Ecuador?
A: It is so different. I live in the mountains, so the ball travels faster. I grew up playing tennis on clay. I had to get used to the court when I came to America. In Ecuador we don’t really play much doubles, either.
C: How do you prepare for each match? Do you have a pre-game ritual?
A: Right before I play the match I pray and ask God that what I do, I do for His glory.
C: Having played tennis all four years, which seasons would you say have been your most productive?
A: My junior year, because my personal records were really good. Tennis is a team sport. So team-wise it is this year, because the talent we have on the team is unbelievable. We beat Stetson, which is something we haven’t done is six years. The A-Sun conference this year has been so competitive and so close. It is exciting because you never know what is going to happen.
C: How have you gotten better this season as opposed to the last seasons?
A: Doubles, double, doubles for sure, and volleys in general and doubles strategy.
C: What is one thing that Coach Woolfolk tells you that has stuck with you the most?
A: Just fight. He doesn’t get mad at us when we lose, but he expects us to fight and leave everything on the court. That reminds me that no matter what I do, I am always supposed to fight and play with my heart. It all comes down to who wants it more.
C: What are your plans after graduation?
A: Over the summer I will go back home to do a study abroad program. After that my future is uncertain. I would love to come back to America and work here for a while. In the long run, I would love to go home and take everything that I have learned and try to open NGOs and connect that to the Gospel. My heart is on the mission field and to spread the message of hope.
C: Who inspires you the most?
A: It is definitely Jesus. He is a servant and He doesn’t think of himself but how to serve others. Even though I fail all the time, He is my living example.
C: Who are some of your favorite professional tennis players?
A: Novak Djokovic. It’s funny because not that many people like him. I think his game style is simple and he tries really hard to win. He is a medium point between Federer and Nadal. I don’t think he has lost a season match. So it is definitely a good time to like Novak.
(04/13/11 2:59pm)
(NOTE AUTHOR: ASHLEY MANN)
After his first year as the Mercer men’s lacrosse head coach, Jason Childs said he hopes to build the program further in his upcoming years.
Cluster: Seeing that Lacrosse is mainly a northern sport, how do you hope it will catch on in the state of Georgia being its first NCAA division I team?
Childs: I think it actually has caught on at the high school level. There are 62 high schools that have lacrosse teams. There are four more colleges that start next year too. I am just glad we are on the forefront and not coming in on the back end of it, and Mercer is going to blaze the trail for it.
CL: In your first season of coaching, what do you hope to do for the program?
C: Getting it off the ground and let the chips fall where they may with the wins and losses. Make sure the guys are committed. All the stuff on the field will come naturally if we keep doing what we are now.
CL: How are you able to get your team a position where they are now able to play at a Division I level? You have done it twice, with Mercer and Presbyterian College.
C: Through hard work. You can’t speed up the process. You just have to roll up your sleeves and get to work. I am holding the guys to a standard and a level that is impossible at some points, but if we aim for that then we are always going to be at that level. It is also making sure that they get better in their free time. But it is mainly getting your hands dirty and doing the work.
CL: Although your first season has started out rough, what changes do you hope to make next season to produce more wins?
C: I think we are bringing in a great recruiting class, and I am really excited about them. I think it would be interesting to see how the team would play in double headers and seeing how they would play the game differently.
CL: How did you become involved in playing lacrosse?
C: The high school that I went to had lacrosse. I was pictured in a helmet at two, and holding a stick at six months. You are just around the game so it is easy to get involved.
CL: Who has been the most influential person to you?
C: I think I would say T.W. Johnson, the first coach I worked with at a collegiate standpoint. I think I learned how to do this the right way. How to work hard when things aren’t going our way and we don’t have the resources we need or want. There is no easy shortcut to get better, just working at it.
CL: What do you enjoying doing in your spare time?
C: I have a four-year-old, a two-year-old, and my wife and I are expecting a third. So my spare time is very limited. Usually, my wife and I would go on a date and go back to how it was when we were married six months and no kids.
Mercer’s lacrosse team will close the season against Holy Cross this next week. After 12 games in their inaugural season, the Bears’ record stands at 1-11.
(03/30/11 6:30pm)
NOTE: AUTHOR ASHLEY MANN
As head coach for the men’s and women’s tennis teams and a Mercer graduate, Warren Woolfolk understands what it takes to succeed in this game. He sat down with The Cluster to answer a few questions.
Cluster: Having recently assumed the role of coach, what changes do you hope to make in the tennis program?
Woolfolk: Hopefully victories, for one. In the last six or seven years the team hasn’t had a season that has been over 500. Last year was my first season, and the men finished right at 500 and the women about the same. Two, is just a stronger regimen as far as practice goes. That includes more conditioning and stronger focus on getting better.
C: How have you been able to relate to your players on their level, having been a Mercer athlete yourself?
W: Being a player here at Mercer really helped me to understand what the athletes are going through as far as the toughness of the academic regimen. I was in the English literature department when I was here, so I understand the school is very tough academically. On one hand I can understand what the kids have to go through academically, and on the other [I understand]the level of competition in the Atlantic-Sun Conference. It really helps me in recruiting, knowing what level player to bring in as far as how to be successful within the conference.
C: Did you explore other options or did you always know that you wanted to end up coaching?
W: I always did. When I graduated I was a tennis pro at Macon’s Idle Hour Country Club, and that was a stepping stone to being a head coach at a university. Since I graduated, my dream was to come back here and coach.
C: How did you become involved in the game of tennis?
W: I was always a baseball and football player growing up. I did not start playing tennis until I was 12, which is kind of late. My parents took me out to the courts after baseball practice, and I loved it.
C: Looking back at the past year, how would you classify your men and women’s team progress?
W: Tremendous progress. Our teams this year are altogether more athletic, and there is a chemistry within both teams that we have never had in the past. Everyone wants to win, and everyone is committed to tennis. Commitment is the number one issue that the team has lacked in the past decade. Everyone has stepped up their level of commitment in the tennis program.
C: The women’s team has only won two matches this season. How will you plan on them being able to turn it around during the latter part of the season?
W: Our women’s team is very young. We are really in a rebuilding phase with our women’s team. This year I did not expect to have a lot of wins, but I had hoped to. Next year we will probably see more results.
C: What’s one of the more important characteristics to have as a tennis player?
W: Work ethic. If you give 100 percent work ethic into whatever you do, you are going to be successful most of the time. You’re are not always going to be successful — for example, our women’s team. However, results will come and hard work pays off.
(03/16/11 4:54pm)
Mercer men’s golf coach Andrew Tredway has had a short tenure at Mercer but has managed to motivate the team with continued success over the seasons. A former professional golfer on the Australian PGA tour, Tredway sat down with The Cluster mid-season to answer a few questions.
Cluster: Besides winning, what specific goals is your men’s golf team trying to accomplish this year?
Tredway: Our main goal is to really try to focus on the process of improving, and not being result-oriented. That’s really our big goal. As far as tangible goals, we expect to be inside the top 100 teams in the nation. One thing that we are really working towards is getting Mercer’s first at-large bid into the NCAA tournament. We are 94th right now in the nation, and the top 70 in the nation get at-large bids each year.
C: In the past, you have coached at larger schools such as the University of Alabama. How do you think this has been beneficial in respects to coaching at a smaller school?
T: I’ve been around the game at the highest level, professional and in college. It’s given me some perspective. It’s also given me the ability to see where we can get our program to, and what’s realistic for Mercer. I think we are a lot closer to those bigger schools than maybe a lot of people in those major-type schools are.
C: During your first two seasons at Mercer, how were you able to change the program to where Mercer’s team ranked 85th in the nation?
T: We had two players, Bill Jones and Ryan Blackburn. Those two just really improved their games in a year. You just have to have good players. Without having good players there is really not much we can do.
C: Is there a motto that you live/coach by?
T: Focus on the process and not so much the result. We try to do as well as we can each day, and improve each day.
C: What did you learn under the tutelage of Ben Crane (PGA tour winner) and Hank Haney (Tiger Wood’s coach) that you implement into your coaching?
T: With Ben I learned a lot about how you can mold yourself into a top-level player. He is a top 50 player in the world now, and he’s done it through a lot of hard work. I try to tell my players that the most talented players do not always become the best players. Through hard work, you can turn yourself into one of those guys. Through Hank I learned a lot about expectations. If your expectations are too high as a teacher, you are ultimately setting yourself up for failure. I really try to relay my expectations to my team and hear their expectations of me as a coach. This way, we are all on the same page and moving forward together.
C: In the upcoming weeks your team will be playing in Oregon. Having played as a collegiate athlete there what are you telling your athletes to expect at this course?
T: I’ve always wanted to take my team back to Oregon. I’d love to have Mercer take it to my alma mater. It’s going to be a fun experience for us to go out there. Playing on the Oregon coast is a different style of golf altogether, with the wind and other elements. It’s going to be a challenge, but it gives our players an opportunity to see where they stand among the best in the country.
Continue to support the Mercer Bears as they gear up to compete in the Bandon Dunes Championship in Bandon, Ore.
(02/23/11 9:00pm)
“We all strive for the same thing. We want to keep you safe while you are learning,” said Mercer Police Chief Gary Collins.
With the recent rise in crime on campus, Mercer police are giving students advice on how to exercise safety on and off campus.
In recent months, Mercer police have seen an escalation in property crimes and one robbery.
“Our students have a bad habit of leaving stuff just sitting out, and when they return it’s gone. If they see it, people will go after it,” Collins said. He further stresses to the students that with their new freedom comes more responsibility.
Chief Collins and his officers have increased patrol in the areas where these incidents have occurred, further taking measures to ensure students’ safety.
Mercer Police have included 24-7 patrol in the College Corridor and offer to drive students anywhere on campus.
“When something happens at Mercer, it seems like a big uprising in crime. We’ve been very fortunate that we don’t have much crime,” Collins said.
Collins attributes this prevention to his 15-man task force, faculty, staff and students cooperating in reporting suspicious behavior. Collins stresses the key element of safety is to be aware of your surroundings.
“Try to prevent yourself from becoming a target. Know where you are. Know your surroundings. Go to well-lit areas. There are some areas that even I wouldn’t want to walk into at night,” Collins said.
Report any incident or suspicious behavior immediately after it occurs. In areas on campus that are not well lit, Collins suggests walking in groups.
If someone were to approach you, try to get a detailed description of that person. Do not act like you are afraid or nervous and look the person in the eye.
“Don’t fight with them. Let us do that. Give them what they want; your life is more important than any property you may have on you,” said Collins. Most importantly, be aware of who is around you.
In regards to lighting, Mercer police is working with the Student Government Association to improve lighting in areas, such as parking lots, on campus for students studying late at night.
To minimize unwanted foot traffic, officers frequently check identification.
“Sometimes students will get upset because they’re stopped and asked for identification. But, if we see people, we do stop them and try to find out why they are here,” Collins said.
Chief Collins encourages his officers to evoke not only a presence as enforcers, but one of friendship as well.
“I want them interacting with the students. We are your allies, and if you have questions don’t hesitate to ask.”
On a scale of one to 10, Chief Collins rates Mercer’s safety at nine.
“I think Mercer is a very safe campus. In no way do I mean to imply that nothing ever happens; incidents are going to occur,” Collins said.
Mercer Police emphasizes that the combined efforts of everyone working together—students, faculty, staff and police department—will minimize the number of occurrences.
(02/23/11 9:00pm)
Recognized as one of the top chapters in the country, Mercer University’s Habitat for Humanity chapter is planning their third annual faculty luncheon on March 17, 2011 to benefit local families in Macon.
“The purpose of the luncheon is to engage faculty and staff at a more personal level in this project, and get them to support it financially and with their own volunteers,” said Larry Brumley.
As a liaison between the President’s Office and Macon Habitat, Brumley helps to facilitate Mercer’s support to the local affiliate.
Mercer University has had a longstanding and fruitful partnership with the Macon Area Habitat. The Mercer University chapter has built at least 30 houses since it began its partnership.
“It’s been a terrific opportunity for our students to engage in service learning and to help build a house in the community and work along with others in the community in building that house,” Brumley said.
Over the years, Mercer University has united with local churches, grant programs and sponsors to raise the $30,000 needed to fund the Mercer Habitat house.
Before beginning the faculty luncheon, students depended on an e-mail sent from the president’s office to faculty asking for their involvement. This event encourages Mercer staff in a more engaging way to consider being both a donor and a volunteer.
Brumley believes that the luncheon engages faculty and staff on a more personal level, giving them an opportunity to hear about the various projects with Habitat for Humanity.
“I think it inspires our students to put in a lot of time and effort to make this build happen. It provides encouragement to students, not to mention the financial support that faculty and staff give to the Mercer build itself,” Brumley said.
Brumley also said that the luncheon gives the students leadership opportunities as well as event management experience. The event allows students to learn in the areas of event planning, marketing and service.
Chapter president Thomaesa Brundage said that the student-led event will give the chapter on-campus awareness. As president, Brundage will serve as the facilitator and speaker at the luncheon.
Brundage believes that the biggest challenge is getting the faculty involved in their advocacy outreach initiative; however, she also stresses the importance of Mercer’s financial commitment.
“Mercer University’s financial commitment is if of immense importance. What Mercer gives and what this faculty luncheon produces gives enough to build a house,” Brundage said.
Development Director of Macon Habitat Jim Mercer is excited that about the awareness and opportunities the fundraising luncheon will bring. He is tasked with aiding the students in planning the event. “We want the spotlight to be on the students and recognize their efforts,” Mercer said.
Executive Director of Macon Habitat Harold Tessendorf was impressed with the faculty turnout at last year’s luncheon. This year, he hopes that students’ roles in this event are acknowledged as well.
“The way in which we engage the community is through variety of outreach in Macon. The church has been our source of support financially and in volunteering,” Tessendorf said.
The Mercer chapter is excited for this luncheon to ignite both student and faculty support for a cause that provides invaluable experience.
“If we can give one house to help one family, that’s an amazing accomplishment in itself,” said Brundage.
(02/09/11 11:00am)
[caption id="attachment_491" align="aligncenter" width="420" caption="(photo courtesy of MercerBears.com) Lilli Luke will look to help lead the softball team back into the A-Sun title race after a 25-30 record last season."]
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A native of Arabi, Ga., junior Lilli Luke helped the Lady Bears softball team claw their way to victory, starting in 32 out of 40 games from her position at third base last season. Luke received many awards during her high school career before she made the transition to Mercer.
Luke sat down with the Cluster during her busy softball pre-season to answer a few questions.
Cluster: When did you begin playing softball?
Luke: I started out playing T-ball and absolutely hated it. I would sit in the outfield and take my glove off and pout. I refused to play, but a lot of my friends started signing up for Little League. So, I was like, “Dad, teach me how to play.” I fell in love with it, and completely loved the sport from there on out.
C: What sports did you play during high school?
L: I played softball for varsity for five years, and I played basketball for three years. It just got to be too much, since I played travel softball. It was hard doing both.
C: What led you to come to Mercer?
L: A lot of my family went to Mercer and it’s a great school. I had always wanted to come to Mercer. Then, I got a chance to play softball here. It kind of all fell into place.
C: Did you consider other schools besides Mercer?
L: I considered other schools, but it was always Mercer.
C: Looking back at the previous season, how well do you feel your team did?
L: We had a tough season last year. We never could catch a break. In some games our pitching would be off or we could not get a hit where we needed it, and vice versa. We had the talent, but just could not put the pieces of the puzzle together.
C: What are your hopes for you and your team in the upcoming season?
L: Play the best, win and have fun while playing and just to enjoy the game while you can. We are all like a family, so I know can depend on them.
C: Is there a motto that you live by, or play by?
L: My dad always tells me, “If this was easy, then everyone would do it.” This really helps me now because we have 6:00 a.m. workouts and 9:00 p.m. meetings. It’s just hard, but looking back, not many people get the opportunity to be a student-athlete. You love the game, play the game and just have fun with it.
C: Who has inspired you the most?
L: My parents. They are always there for me one hundred percent of the time. My dad was a college athlete. He played football and baseball at Georgia Tech. I can talk to them about anything.
C: What is your most memorable sports experience?
L: Last season we played in the Georgia Tech tournament, which was fun because I have a friend on the team. I was up to bat, and I hit it out and made a hole in the shed in left field. I went back to the dugout and it was just a big joke with my friends.
Come out and support Lilli Luke and the rest of the Mercer Bears softball team as they kick off their 2011 season in mid-February.
(02/09/11 1:14am)
[caption id="attachment_399" align="aligncenter" width="600" caption="Mercer Club Swimming competes with school such as UGA, Florida and Georgia Southern."]
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The absence of a swim team on campus has sparked a new team of students to keep the Mercer Swim Club afloat.
Looking to have a more active voice on campus, the Mercer Swim Club is seeking to raise awareness on campus about upcoming meets and activities offered this year.
Prior to joining the swim club, sophomore president of the club Tess Frawley swam competitively during high school. Frawley hoped that joining the swim club would allow her to experience a team-like atmosphere similar to that of her high school career.
As a freshman, David Michaeli tries to be active on campus and has found a place in the swim club. “I love to compete, but it’s not really about competition. It’s about common interest,” he said.
The core members who attend practice have become close, even socializing outside of the swim club.
The swim club gave Michaeli an opportunity to bond with people who have like goals and share a common passion.
Michaeli believes that Frawley tries to create a community atmosphere and get more students involved. As each president serves a one-year term, current president Frawley wants to rebuild and get more student involvement.
In past meets, the club competed against schools like the University of Georgia, the University of Florida and Georgia College and State University as well as two intramural meets at Mercer.
When Megan Beardsley assumed the role of president last year she admitted to making some changes.
“We did a complete revamp of what swim club was at Mercer. Before, it was a place where you could go to learn how to swim—which it still is, but on the same level it’s competitive now. We actually go to meets. Now we have a full relay team of girls, which is impressive in itself, and people come to practice on a regular basis,” Beardsley said.
Individually the team did well in the meets, but lacked in scoring due to its smaller size. There are roughly twenty members in the swim club as opposed to larger teams that have 100 members.
Beardsley noted that the work ethic of the team continues to make them closer. “The work ethic is good. They are willing to push themselves, and get a good workout by swimming two to three miles in practice,” Beardsley said.
The club is unable to have a swim team, seeing that the pool is not regulation size. “A lot of people thought we had a swim team here, and a lot of people have interest in it in a more competitive atmosphere besides a club team,” Beardsley said.
Beardsley gave Frawley advice on what to expect her first year as president. “I told her to regulate practices, and try to get some emphasis out there and publicity through Facebook and things like that,” Beardsley said.
Anyone who has interest can join the swim club.
“I don’t want people to be turned off by the fact that it’s small. You can join the team even if you want to learn how to swim. Come join the swim team,” Frawley said.