FREE | Take one Week of Oct. 7, 2009 | Vol. 35, Iss. 6
The
Mirror
fairfieldmirror.com
The Independent Student Newspaper of Fairfield University The Reflection of Fairfield
Is ‘He Said/She Said’ a Column of Shame?
Communication Opens Between Editorial Board and ‘He Said’ Protesters
By Meagan Flynn Staff Writer The student body has been buzzing over the controversy spurred by last week's “He Said” article. Protestors and editors met on Monday evening in an attempt to better understand the role that The Mirror plays at Fairfield.
The article, written by Chris Surette '10, inspired a protest outside of The Mirror office that was attended by several members of the University community. Certain language to describe the topic of “the walk of shame” was deemed inappropriate by those in attendance. Leaders of the protest were invited to attend an Editorial Board meeting and present their concerns and requests formally to the Editorial staff. Sarah Gatti '10 spoke on behalf of the organizers of the protest. Representing The Mirror were Tom Cleary '10, Editor in Chief; Lily Norton '10, Executive Editor; Chris Simmons '10, Managing Editor; and Veronica Florentino '10, Opinion Editor. Students and faculty were also invited to attend the meeting and were able to comment after the formal
discussion, which was facilitated by Joe Defeo, director of Living and Learning. Both parties involved expressed a desire to find common ground and to move The Mirror forward in a positive direction. A decision was made not to include Photos by Peter Caty/The Mirror a stage or microphone so as to Above, Shawne Lomauro ‘11 joins in the discussion with The keep the meeting in a traditional Mirror’s editorial board. Photos to the left show students Editorial Board meeting format. looking on. Gatti began by explaining how the protest initially began and how it escalated. She then pinpointed the overall concern of the group, saying, “This space in our student newspaper is condoning and glorifying activity that is counter-intuitive to the student body and really harmful and painful to people who have been involved.” Suggestions for By Dan Leitao how the group feels Staff Writer The Mirror should “re-frame” the Those upset with last week’s "He Said/She Said" space of the column column took their opinions further than a protest were also offered outside of the Mirror office by attending the FUSA by Gatti on behalf Senate meeting on Sunday night. By participating of the protesters. in the public input section of the Senate meeting, in These suggestions which any student or group of students can speak to included creating the Senate members about their concerns or ideas, accountability for those upset with the column volunteered their opinthe writers involved, ions on the subject. so the column no Senate Chair Frank Fioretti '10, who spoke on longer presents the behalf of the Senate, said that the protestors were not vague, stereotypical personally invited to the meeting. "They came on their characters of “He own free will because they're passionate about the issue Said” and “She Said.” — they decided to speak to the Senate about what could She also suggested be done." In no way, he said, were they invited and that The Mirror enthose involved with the “He Said” column shunned. "It would not have been fair for me to invite one
Senate Responds to ‘He Said’ Controversy with Certain Resolutions
Ed Board | page 6
Public Safety Releases Jeanne Clery Report
Perlitz Trial Moving Forward By Chris Simmons Managing Editor
Three weeks after being indicted by a Bridgeport grand jury on seven counts of travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct and three counts of illicit sexual conduct in a foreign country, Douglas Perlitz ’92 will stand trial. According to the U.S. District Attorney’s office, Perlitz will be arraigned on the charges on Thursday, Oct. 8 at 2 p.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Joan G. Margolis in New Haven. Thomas Carson, the spokesman from the U.S. attorney’s office, would only confirm this information and that Perlitz will have new counsel when he gets to Connecticut. He would not comment on whether the University had been notified beforehand or if any other parties have been investigated. The Connecticut Post reported last week that Perlitz will be housed in Central Falls,
Index Opinion • Page 7 Features • Page 11 Arts & Entertainment • Page 13 Sports • Page 24
Senate | page 6 R.I. and that the district attorney’s office will ask Perlitz not to be released on bond. According to the criminal docket for Perlitz’s case, he does not have counsel listed yet. Three U.S. district attorneys will be representing the United States in the case. The case has been assigned to Judge Janet Bond Arterton. Recap of indictment (selected points): 11. Between 2002 and 2008, slightly over $2 million was transferred from the Haiti Fund to an account that Perlitz controlled. 14. In order to persuade the children to comply with sex acts, Perlitz provided the promise of food and shelter and provided monetary and other benefits, including currency, cell phones and other electronics, shoes, clothing, and other items. 19. If minors refused to engage in sex acts, Perlitz would at times withhold benefits or threaten to expel them from the program. 31. After allegations of long-term sexual abuse by Perlitz surfaced, Perlitz used his relationship with a religious leader and influential Board Members to continue to conceal and attempt to conceal his illegal sexual conduct.
Inside This Week The Mirror Redefined: Check out what has changed with the paper. See page 2.
The Mirror
Editorial: Boundaries The Mirror’s reaction to the He Said Controversy. See page 9.
We’re taking a break! The Mirror will be off for Columbus Day and will return in two weeks on Oct. 21.
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
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In The News
» Students and staff react to ‘He Said’ | page 7
PAGE 2 Surette
Riding a bike on campus
Nathans
O’Keeffe
The Mirror — Redefined ‘The Mirror’ Redesign
Peter Caty/The Mirror
Junior Sean Savage, who does not have a car on campus, is one of the many Fairfield students who rides his bike to and from class and over other parts of the campus. He said he has noticed that the number of students who join him on bikes has risen in the past year. Stag, Lucas
Campus crime beat By Dan Leitao Staff Writer
Wednesday, Sept. 30 3:15 p.m. A bicyclist struck a pedestrian in a crosswalk on Loyola Rd. Both refused further medical service. Bicyclists must abide by all laws. Thursday, Oct. 1 3:26 a.m. An intoxicated minor was observed ripping up plants in the Quad. The minor was identified and taken to the Health Center. Friday, Oct. 2 10:07 p.m. There was suspicious activity near the Regis
dumpster area. Nothing was found. 10:28 p.m. A student was found with an open beer can in one of the residence halls. Saturday, Oct. 3 12:20 a.m. There was an alcohol violation involving a minor. Two students were referred to the Dean of Students. 12:40 a.m. A non-student and a student were referred to the Dean of Students for underage possession of alcohol. 1:53 a.m. An intoxication involving a student who was a minor was transported to the Health Center and subsequently referred to the Dean of Students. 2:38 a.m. A motor vehicle
accident occurred in the Canisius parking lot. A student’s vehicle struck a light pole ; the student was arrested for a DUI. 2:24 p.m. A student found damages to her car in the Dolan School of Business parking lot. Sunday, Oct. 4 1:04 a.m. Public Safety assisted with Residence Life in clearing out a large gathering of students in the townhouses. 2:35 p.m. A member of the library staff made a complaint of a person looking at pornography on one of the computers. 10:48 p.m. There was suspicious activity in the Bellarmine parking lot. Students were found exiting the woods.
Better Know a Stag Who: Jordan Freeman ‘13, Freshman Class President Hometown: Hamden, CT Major: Politics What made you decide to run for FUSA? "It was something I had done in high school and I enjoyed the experience, so I wanted to do it on a larger scale." What was your first reaction when you found out you had won? "Surprised, kinda shocked. It was a very close race once I saw the results. Basically, I'm just ready to get the ball rolling." Have you planned anything so far? "Not quite yet. We are just starting to meet as a council now. We are open to suggestions and ideas." Do you personally have any goals for the year? "Very vague now. I hope to bring a sense of community, bring everyone together, make lifelong friends. Have some fun events."
»Tucker Nathans a dual threat| page 24
» Freshman spurs men’s soccer win streak| page 21
Amid the recent controversy over the “He Said/She Said” Tom Cleary section of The Mirror, Editor in Chief the staff of the paper has been laboring to redesign both the print and online image of the newspaper. A process that began over the summer was completed this week, with the launch of a new www.fairfieldmirror.com and a new look to the print edition as well. As some of you may have noticed over the past few weeks, we have been hinting at our redesign through subtle viral marketing in print, putting a small logo in various sections of the paper. Meanwhile, we created a brand new Stag logo to create a closer tie to the University. In an ode to a tagline of the past, we have added “The Reflection of Fairfield,” to our flag. We have also taken this opportunity to also address our editorial process and what we feel should be the image of our newspaper. In our editorial this week we directly address the “He Said/She Said” situation and go into further depth in a press release the new that can be read on our Web site. The entire staff has mirror logo not taken the reaction that our issue last week caused lightly. We deeply regret offending anyone with the column; it was never our intent. While “He Said/She Said” will continue, we believe that by keeping it in print, it provides us an opportunity to improve the content and use it as a true satire and a true way to bring good, solid, comedy and entertainment to the campus, while still considering the views of others. We would also like everyone to remember that we are are all students and mistakes happen. What we hope now is that we can all learn from this moment. But back to our new look. In print, we have changed fonts, changed designs and attempted to make the paper more smooth as a whole. While The Mirror has evolved over the past few years, it has not undergone a full redesign since 2001. This new look will make us look more like our contemporaries, both college newspapers and professional newspapers. Online, we have switched from the College Publisher serves to the CoPress servers with a new Web site on WordPress, designed by seniors Joe Cefoli and Michelle Morrison. It was a process that took nearly six months and one that will provide faster load times, more online only content, easier access to our archives, fewer ads and more multimedia. We hope that you take the time to look at how we have changed and let us know what else we can do to make both the Web site and print better for you, our readers. We thank you for continuing to read us through this difficult time, one that was hard both on us and the community and we will strive to continue to improve our content and use our First Amendment Rights of Freedom of Speech and the Press in a positive way.
By the Numbers
2,529
Web site views as of Tuesday since the site launched on Monday night.
48 hours Amount of time that had passed as of Tuesday night without the DNS updating at Fairfield. That means no new site on campus. Really CNS?
7,337 Articles manually resorted this summer by The Mirror’s online staff. Again ... fun, right?
4 Members of that online staff. That’s a lot of sorting.
500
1
The approximate amount of fonts The Mirror staff considered for the redesign. Sounds exciting right?
New, awesome Web site. Everyone should check it out right away. Or as soon as it goes live on campus. www.fairfieldmirror.com
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The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
Lucas to Say Goodbye to Fairfield By Keri Harrison News Editor Screenshot of www.coursehero.com
Former Students Sell Old Papers Online By Christopher Haliskoe Managing Director A student franticly looks around their dormitory late at night looking for a classmate. A paper is due in the mailbox of a teacher at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow morning. But one classmate is out at the bar while another has handed it in early and has head home. What is left for this student to do? CourseHero.com has created a web space for students to submit former assignments and has categorized it by the schools, subjects, and then teachers. Fairfield’s page has papers from over 40 different departments ranging from communications to economics to biology. Because the site has claimed to have no intention of students handing in the work post, and claims to provide study material only, it is unclear as to whether they are in violation of anything. The University has not found that any of the papers taken from the site have been handed in, but has launched a University-wide investigation, with members of Student Affairs and Academics participating together. The Mirror was notified of the issue when a member of the Visual and Performing Arts Department located papers submitted by a past student, Jessica Parnell, who has since transferred out of the University.
Thomas Pellegrino, dean of students, was originally notified of this occurrence. “Our policies on academic honesty both as contained in our manuals and in course syllabi are clear that students may not appropriate information, ideas or the language of other people and submit it as their own,” he said. Professor of Art History Phillip Eliasoph was notified by fellow professor that one of his classes featured a paper posted by Parnell. “The notion that a student's independent, original research is fueled by external papers, class notes, or even exams published on-line, shakes to the very core the entire academic enterprise of original scholarship,” said Eliasoph. “Truthfully, I find this to be an appalling new twist on the traditional plagues of plagiarism and academic theft.” Pellegrino agreed by saying, “We are now seeing a new form of plagiarism.” Eliasoph said as to the matter of disciplinary action that is up for the Dean’s office to decide “but he feels confident none of this would possibly pass a ‘smell test.’” As for CourseHero.com, the Web site states its position as the number one study-help material destination on the Internet with over 500,000 courses and five million papers. The University is looking into the matter of the students who have posted content on the Fairfield page.
Correction:
In the Sept. 30 issue of The Mirror, English professor Edrick Lopez was misidentified as a Spanish professor in the article “Your professors may become your neighbors.” The mistake was made by the editorial staff, not the author of the article and The Mirror regrets and apoligizes for the error. We invite anyone who spots errors to send an email to fairfield.mirror@gmail.com
The University announced on Monday that William J. Lucas ‘69, the vice president for Finance and Administration, will be retiring at the end of the academic year, in May 2010. Speaking about his decision to retire, Lucas said, “Basically, I will complete 41 years at Fairfield this June and feel that it’s a pretty good run.” “I feel like I have been very fortunate over those years to be involved with the growth of the University not only financially but with the facilities as well as providing support to the overall Fairfield Mission,” Lucas continued. After his graduation from Fairfield in 1969, Lucas was named the Director of Financial Aid and then promoted to lucas Controller in 1972. According to a University letter from President Jeffrey von Arx, Lucas was named as vice president for finance in 1983, taking with it the responsibilities of the payroll, bursar, accounting, purchasing and human resources departments. In addition, he is a member of the University’s Presidents Circle and has served on the Alumni Reunion Committee. In the letter, von Arx said, “On behalf of the senior management team, I want to express my sincere gratitude to Bill for his long and esteemed service, and we will find occasions during the year to celebrate his longstanding service to Fairfield.” “Looking back, I think the major impression is all the positive changes that have happened at the University,” Lucas said. “The extraordinary people I have had the pleasure of working with during these 41 years is the greatest memory.”
Facebook Videos Cause Controversy By Deanna Mitchell Staff Writer In light of the recent Princeton Review polls that declared Fairfield No. 1 in little class/race interaction, a number of video blogs confronting a number of topics on campus taped by Fairfield students appeared on Facebook last week. Kevin Shaw ‘10 created a series of video blogs in order to show college students having fun, what college students experience, and the ever-lasting battle of diversity on campus. In the videos, Shaw singled out women and minorities here at the University. According to a number of offended students, his crude sense of humor, chauvinistic comments about women, and profane commentary were inappropriate. “It was unacceptable of a college student, especially one that is not a freshmen,” says Ashley De La Cruz ‘12. William H. Johnson, director of Student Diversity Programs, quickly took action by setting up meetings with the senior after receiving word of Shaw’s improper tactics. “At its foundation, I believe that this is a peer issue and not necessarily one for the administration to take action on (outside of the conversations that I have already had with the parties involved),” Johnson said in an e-mail. “It is my desire that all of those involved or affected by this incident will find a way to resolve their differences
amicably and find ways to work together.” While some found his work to be out of line and derogatory, others have taken a liking to Shaw’s unique and comical perception of student life, and the issues of diversity that has placed the University at the top of the list of schools in the country with the least amount of diverse interaction. “The majority of the student body loved the comedy,” Shaw said. “I received 373 friend requests in the last five days.” According to Shaw, his videos have sparked diversity awareness while adding a comical twist to the topic. He believes that he has helped diversity clubs on campus reach the student body easier by making the concern a primary focus. Although it was not his intention to receive the attention of administrators due to the foul language he used in the videos, he feels that the entire experience was for the better. “Administrators see my message behind the profanity and jokes and want to help,” Shaw said. Shaw made an apology blog Friday afternoon directed towards the people he upset. He also encouraged those people to be a part of his movement. “For the group [of students and faculty] that is offended, they now understand where I’m coming from, and want to work with me,” said Shaw in the blog. Despite his apologies, Kevin feels that he did not go over the top
with the things he said, and also compared his strategy to that of a comedian. Others still feel differently. “In what way is saying that the minority females need to get their act together while giving shout outs to the ‘beautiful white Puerto Ricans with big butts’ discussing the issue of diversity awareness?” said Stefanie Robles ‘10. “Same goes for video taping women asleep in their beds because they passed out from a party in another townhouse,” continued Robles. Shaw is part of an allegedly unofficial fraternity on campus, known as the Distinguished Gentlemen, whose mission is to spread diversity within the school. Shaw said that the organization wants to show how important diversity is to them, as well as to bring the majority and the minority of students together like no one else has, while remaining unrecognized. Shaw’s initiatives to spread diversity on the University campus have upset a number of people throughout the University community, but those involved hope that the situation will be addressed and ratified. “In short, I felt that Kevin's comments were disturbing, hurtful, and inappropriate,” said Johnson. “I hope that after my conversation with him he will be a leader in helping our community address this issue.”
Photo Illustration by Dan Leitao
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
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Homeland Security Lends Hand to Public Safety By Michael Maio Staff Writer Is the University slowly becoming the latest version of Big Brother? The Department of Public Safety recently announced that a Homeland Security Grant for $48,750 has been awarded to the University, used to upgrade the current video surveillance system and to also purchase more video campus to set up around campus. The grant is part of a program, announced by Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Chairman Joe Lieberman, in which $16 million will be spent by the state of Connecticut to enhance the efficiency of security systems. “This grant is a government grant through Homeland Security, specifically for non-profit organizations,” explained Todd Pelazza, the director of Public Safety. “Our department, myself, Frank Ficko, the associate director of Public Safety, Debbie Zsebik, and Susan LaFrance, have all worked together in securing this grant for the University,” said Pelazza. The grant will be used to upgrade the analog system to an IP system. An IP system has a web-based platform, which
means the video footage can be accessed over the Internet. The IP surveillance also features a higher mega-pixel system, which will let authorities, and officials zoom in with clarity. The new system also has a wider field of view, which means that even if the camera is zoomed in or focused on a subject, it will still record the whole specified area. This is unlike the current cameras that are referred to as pan-tilt-zoom cameras. These instruments are set to a certain path or pattern of the area and follow this path in a continual cycle. This can be an issue if a situation arises when the camera is pointed in another direction, but the new IP system will greatly reduce this problem. “The biggest advantage of this new system is that it will allow emergency responders to access the camera footage, as long as there is wireless [internet access],” Pelazza said. “This will better enable them to assess, see, and plan a response to certain situations.” He explained that the University is still in the process of researching vendors; but that once this is complete the installations will begin. Phase One of this project is to switch over the current system to the IP surveillance. This first phase must be completed
by April of 2010. Right now, there are mostly roof-mounted cameras around campus at locations such as the residents halls, academic buildings, and other public locations. Pelazza mentioned that at some point in the future, Public Safety would be applying for further grants to purchase more cameras and equipment. Many students were glad for the upgrade in security on campus, but others brought up some concerns and questions. “I don’t think there would be a need for the local authorities to access our cameras, because I think most situations can be handled by Public Safety,” said Joe Plouffe ’13. “But in case that there was an extreme situation, where the security footage needs to be reviewed I guess it might have positive effects.” Kerry Davis ’11 said, “It’s good that our campus is becoming more technologically advanced, but it sounds very 1984 Big Brother.” Other students had stronger concerns about the web-based system. “I think it is a little scary that it’s web-based,” commented Christina Dunne ’13. “I’m just concerned of the video falling into the wrong hands. But as for the upgrade, I’m glad that campus will be more secure for students.”
Peter Caty/The Mirror
Since Homeland Security awarded the Public Safety and the University a $48,750 grant, the University’s security system is about to be upgraded significantly. Although the new system has yet to be implemented, Public Safety has an outline of their plans, the first phase of which should be completed in April 2010.
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
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Do You Drink and Get Caught Beer-handed? By Mikaela Tierney Assistant News Editor The importance of safety on the University’s campus was highlighted this past week with the release of the 2008 Jeanne Clery report, compiled and released by the University’s Department of Public Safety. The data in the report reflected a minor increase in the occurrence rates of a number of dangerous or criminal campus activities despite the department’s diligent and proactive handling of many dangerous situations on campus. Many of the statistics included in this year’s Clery report illustrated a small increase in the occurrence of unsafe campus activities, such as drug abuse violation arrests, aggravated assaults, and forcible sexual offenses. Issued annually by every secondary school in the country as required by federal law, the report provides statistics highlighting the number of occurrences of different commonplace criminal issues on campuses, including larcenies, sexual offenses, and hate crimes. The data is compiled from a variety of campus resources and offices, including the Dean’s office and data logs from Public Safety. The most notable of the changes in
the 2009 statistics at the University was the dramatic increase in the number of liquor law violation disciplinary referrals. One thousand two hundred eighty-five referrals were reported over the course of the 2008 academic year, up from 900 referrals in 2007 and 756 referrals in 2006. Frank Ficko, the associate director of Public Safety, acknowledged the significant increase in referrals. Though he could not pinpoint a particular reason, he cited many different components that likely contributed to the problem. “Maybe we had good Resident Assistants last year, maybe we were more reactive, or maybe students were sloppier last year,” Ficko said. However, the increases in the occurrence of unsafe activities across campus were small in relativity to the number of students enrolled in the University and should not reflect poorly on the actions of Public Safety. Along with the increases, there were also many notable decreases in categories such as burglaries, drug abuse violation referrals, and larcenies. This year’s report included a few new components as well, including amendments
concerning hate crimes and emergency evacuation procedures. These new amendments increased the strict nature of the report, implementing fresh guidelines for reporting statistics and expanding the definition of hate crimes. In addition, the new rules allowed for the availability of the report in both digital and paper form. Public Safety adapted their data to comply with all of the new requirements of the report and illustrated their serious dedication to the integrity of the report. As Ficko points out, the report records “who you are, what you do, [and] why you do it”, leaving very little room for masking the reality of rule violations. If schools do attempt to hide their safety problems when filing their reports, they risk serious punishment — each violation comes with a fine of $27,500. “It doesn’t matter [if a school is] public or private, everybody must comply” with the requirements of the report, Ficko noted. Yet not all schools report to the same quality level as Fairfield. “It’s a little frustrating,” Ficko said, when schools attempt to hide their real statistics by bending the guidelines as set forth by the Clery report.
Ficko even goes beyond the requirements of the report in order to provide as much information as possible to members of the university community and the outside population as well. “I have [the statistics for] larcenies in my report,” Ficko said. “It’s not required.” He includes extra information in his report because he believes it is in “the spirit of the Clery [report] — to give everyone an idea of what’s going on.” James Mathews ‘12 feels safe knowing that Public Safety is always available on campus. “I’ve never felt unsafe on campus, even in light of the incidents that have occurred recently at other colleges,” he said. Rather than giving credit for the immense level of safety on campus solely to his own officers, Ficko acknowledges the members of the campus community for creating their own safe environment. “It’s everyone looking out for each other’s back,” that keeps the campus so safe, he said. As long as individuals continue to look out for one another, he said, the campus will continue to be a safe place for students and other University community members. Graph by Dan Leitao
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
Ed Board Meets with Protesters Continued from page 1
The Editorial Board then had the opportunity to speak about not only their sure an improvement of the satire so that intent, but also about their roles as editors the intention is more obvious, and that in light of the situation. Cleary expressed inflammatory language be removed from that the protest urged the staff to take a all future articles. critical look at a column that has been “This is one of the first places where continued in The Mirror as a tradition, not [students] get information about what it necessarily as the result of an informed means to be a man and a woman on this look at what the student body wants from campus, and I think that we have to honor the paper. that,” said Gatti. “Kudos to you for making “We have not been taking this something that people are reading. Now lightly. We've definitely spent a lot of time the challenge is making something that considering this and I think that's a good they read, and that's still controversial, thing,” Cleary said. “We've had a chance but that really engages what's actually to sit down and say, why is 'He Said/She happening here ... Let's talk about what's Said' in the paper? It's something that's actually up, and let's do it respectfully,” been a tradition, good or bad, and we just she said. assumed that it's something that's in our paper ... and we keep it going in the same way it's been going, which is not a good thing to do.” Florentino added that it is hard to gauge what the student body is looking for in a “He Said,” reminding participants that after complaints of Dan Stanczyk '08 being too “offensive,” the less inflammatory Josh Kenney '09 was deemed “not offensive enough” by a majority of students. Gatti reiterated that the main problem with the column is that it is an arena specifically designed for students to play the role of a stereotypical Peter Caty/The Mirror and offensive character. Sarah Gatti speaks to The Mirror. Simmons discussed
how Surette has been taking accountability for his words, and noted that protests and personal attacks against Surette and the paper are not the most effective way to address such problems. Shawne Lomauro '11, who played a large role in starting the protest, responded that there have also been personal attacks against her on The Mirror's Web site, and that she has tried to ensure that nobody in her group made such attacks against anyone. On Tuesday, the protesters published what they called “The Broken Mirror,” a handout in which they wrote small articles detailing its stance on the issue. No names were attributed to the handout. While all issues covered in the meeting will be strongly considered by The Mirror staff, the Editorial Board has remained consistent in the stance that the decision to include or remove any content from anywhere in the paper falls on them as an independent newspaper. “That line has to be determined by us. Whether or not we made a mistake is something that we have to decide. What the line is has to be something we set as a free, independent press,” said Cleary. “I'm not saying that what we said was right, and I'm not saying that what we said was wrong, but we have a responsibility to print something that is positive and that follows our journalistic ethics, follows our code of ethics and our code of procedure, and that is where it should be determined if it was right or wrong.” Ed. Note: Meagan Flynn is not a paid member of the staff and strove to report this article with journalistic integrity and non-bias.
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Senate Discusses Opinion on ‘He Said’ controversy Continued from page 1 side of the story because it wasn't like I was planning on having a debate at the meeting," Fioretti said. The members of the Senate came up with resolutions in response to the column, which they handed out at the discussion between the protesters and The Mirror on Monday night. One of the resolutions stated, "Be it resolved that the Fairfield University Student Association strongly recommends that the Fairfield University Administration respond to the aforementioned ‘He Said’ article with the same level of concern and proactive engagement as previous incidents of similar caliber have been handled." Fioretti noted that in 1984, the University suspended its subscription with the Mirror, due to a controversial article. He said that the Senate is "not trying to say what they (the Mirror) can or cannot write." Instead, they hope that the University should respond in some way to the issue, especially since many members of the student body are enraged. "In no way are we saying get rid of "He Said/She Said," he said. Instead, the Senate wants to bring awareness to the language used in the column to ensure this doesn't happen again. "The general consensus of the Senate was that there were lines in here that were implications of rape," said Fioretti. However, there were some Senate members who abstained from supporting the resolution. "There was one viewpoint that thought it ("He Said/She Said" column) fit a certain persona." Since FUSA, especially the Senate, has taken steps in expressing their concern over the column and the issues it has provoked amongst the student body, Fioretti was asked if the Senate feels that the persona should be changed or modified. As of now, he said, "I can't answer that."
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
Online See a press release with more details on our decision regarding He Said/She Said.
Notable and Quotable
Tom Cleary | Editor in Chief Lily Norton | Executive Editor Chris Simmons | Managing Editor Veronica Florentino | Commentary Editor
“Campus culture doesn’t just happen - you create campus culture.”
Boundaries
-Prof. Kerry Cronin from BC in her lecture, “Hooking Up,” Monday night
work against this progress. People have suggested that The Mirror be terminated. We have the right to provide entertainment to readers, as well as real journalism. And although it may seem to some that we only gain attention through our “He Said/She Said,” we work hard to promote real journalism. We do not condone sexual harassment, rape, or forms of violence. These are problems that are bigger than The Mirror, and while we should never appear to endorse these thoughts and actions, attacking individuals will not solve the problem, and shutting down The Mirror will not end sexism. We’ve also been asked to define censorship. The Mirror considers removing the newspaper from the stands, and any disciplinary action taken against a writer directly because of an article, as censorship. We have taken the time to evaluate the situation. We’ve decided that removing the column would not fix the problem, but what would have greater, more positive effects on the community is to improve the column, by restructuring it and being more considerate to all and any possible interpretations. In addition, we are going to update our Code of Procedure to include a section about “He Said/ She Said” to ensure that future columns will not include divisive or offensive language. It is a difficult decision to make and one we did not take lightly. We hope that together we can move forward and turn a negative into a positive.
The Mirror welcomes the opinions and contributions of its readers: Letters to the editor must be timely and submitted in person at BCC 104, by email at mirroropinion@gmail com or through our Web site (www.fairfieldmirror.com). There are no guarantees of publication and all submissions must be signed and include a phone number for verification purposes. The Mirror reserves the right to edit letters and articles for content, length and grammatical error. Letters should be free of obscenities and personal attacks, and should contain correct and factual information. Letters should not exceed 400 words.
The Mirror Incorporated 1977
In reference to Sunday’s 9pm mass, when Fr. Doody advertised Monday’s lecture on “Hooking Up,” by Kerry Cronin. Have an opinion? Send it to mirrror.comment@gmail.com.
FML — Through the Eyes of Another Coffee Break Writer by Jessica Pierce Coffee Break Columnist In place of my column, which might be tapered off soon anyway, I think it is more appropriate for me to address a more important and personal issue in the Fairfield University community this week. I sincerely wish I was writing about a more significant issue, such as the one we have recently faced with Doug Perlitz. However, I am writing concerning the “He Said/ She Said” debacle because that has taken precedence over what I believe we should all be really having sit-ins and protests about. I would like to start by saying my intention is not to offend anyone involved in the situation. As someone who also writes in the Coffee Break section, I would like to mention that everything we say is absolutely, positively for entertainment value. In my case, it is mostly at my expense, or at those who chose to be anonymous. In “He Said/ She Said”, the satirical comments are meant as a portrayal of how the common college student reacts to situations such as a one night stand; it is not solely the views of Chris or Ally necessarily. I would also like to mention that I know for a fact that none of you who protested applied to be “He Said” or “She Said.” You could have, and
could have put a different spin on the column if you would have liked. I understand and sympathize with those of you who have been offended by the column. Personally, I found a few parts jarring, but nothing is as jarring as the display that has been seen on campus this week. As young adults, we all make mistakes and are trying to find our way in this confusing world. We sometimes, as I’m sure Chris Surette was, are influence by friends and standards that are expected from a “typical college student.” There is no need for threats, harassment toward family members, or horrible remarks toward either of the columnists. How does that make your moral character more stellar than that of whom you are so harshly judging? Unfortunate and tragic events do occur. Girls are sometimes taken advantage of. But don’t judge girls who, after a night of fun at the bar, chose to go home with someone and have a one-night stand. Every girl has to base her judgment on her own personal experience. There are people that have one night stands and feel horrible, and there are others who have one night stands and feel great. As far as the question regarding rape references in the column, I do not agree with the phrasing and the use of the word victim, but would
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In the course of the last week, many assumed boundaries have been crossed. The first was through the publication of the “He Said/She Said”’s column, which offended a portion of the campus. Then, for the first time in a long time, we actually had a protest on campus. Students, staff and faculty cut out the column, posted writing on our windows, and discussed the issue at hand outside of our office. In conversations, many of the lurking questions that present themselves ask where do we draw the line. What is free speech, and what is vulgar? What is censorship, and what is vandalism? What is this worth? What is entertainment? If I don’t take action now, when will I? The Mirror is in agreement with the rights to free speech and the right to assemble. But in this case, while we try to be the agent of free speech, we became the target. We apologize for the publication of a column that had the potential to offend such a great number of students, parents, alumni and members of the Fairfield community. But the editorial meeting allowed us hear many voices that never have come to us before. We wish we could have fostered such attention in more favorable circumstances. This is about an issue bigger than all of us; we all desire to be better, as individuals or through affiliations. The meeting we had promoted ideas to better the social culture of our campus as portrayed through our publication. But there are actions that
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it make you feel better if I told you I considered my men my prey? Is a woman allowed to say these things? Is that Vagina Warrior code? Would it make you feel better if Ally had written those things? I am not defending Chris Surette; I am merely trying to show that perception is everything, and no two perceptions will be alike. Therefore, it is impossible to write a completely unbiased column. An edgy column such as the “He Said/She Said” is even more so susceptible to pushing boundaries because of the its nature. As a further note, I have talked to many girls who have thought the column was hilarious and saw nothing wrong with it. They did not protest because they saw nothing to protest about. I would like to see people take one-tenth the passion they protested this column with and use it toward helping those distraught children in Haiti. I would like us all to move on from this and know that two wrongs never did and never will make a right. I would like you to look inside yourself, find those Jesuit values that we all hold dear and smile at Chris or Ally when you see them walking. It may be harder to be the people writing, open for critic at anytime, than you’ll ever know.
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The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
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What YOU Said About ‘HE said’ Letters to the Editor
To the Editor:
To the Editor:
To the Editor: To be published in The Mirror, an article must comply with the Ethics Code located on page 5 of your free academic planner. Although I personally feel the statement, “that pounding you gave her last night will turn into a pounding headache” toes the line of vulgarity and does not immediately impress me as being important to my understanding of the situation (See #21 in Ethics Code for The Mirror), my standards in terms of what I consider vulgar may not equal the general consensus. I would place the terms “pound” and “bang” under the category of “vulgar street language describing sexual activities” (also #21) as they are likewise terms used synonymously with “beat”. But that’s just me. Those in defense of Surette maintain that he only voices the opinion of the male population at Fairfield. While I know several male individuals who would not appreciate being spoken for by Surette, I recognize the sad reality that serves as the basis for this defense. Some people simply do not consider women in human terms, as revealed by Surette’s article, “And hopefully you got something out of this too … actually, we really don’t care.” If Surette were referring to members of another group (eg. Hispanics, Muslims, lower income families), people would be up in arms over the situation. The column suggests that all men at Fairfield think of women not as people, but as things for sex whose thoughts and feelings are insignificant. This generalization would conflict with #23 in Ethics Code for The Mirror which states that, “Staffers will take care in writing to avoid applying commonly thought but usually erroneous group stereotypes.” If this is indeed not a generalization and Surette’s opinion represents the voice of Fairfield, there is a serious problem facing our community. The Mirror should have addressed this from an objective standpoint as a social issue, instead of promoting ideas that demean people by instructing males to “remember to be ruthless and have no shame.”
Let me remind you Mr. Surette, that those so-called “sluts” and “hood rats” that you speak of in your column are the daughters and sisters of someone out there. For you to make such loose and flaccid remarks displays a complete lack of character and respect towards women. Don’t get me wrong, I am a male and I have needs as well, but the way in which you have framed your ideas is not only offensive, but also humiliating. Women being taken advantage of by college men are not something to laugh at. No one should have to be subjected to the type of misogynistic claims that you have leveled at the women of this campus who may, or in all likelihood not, have been unfortunate enough to go home with you. I am sure that there are a select few women in your life whom you hold in high regard. I dare you to read that piece to mom. Your own insecurities resonate quite clearly in your article and I hope you can work them out through countless hours and thousands of dollars of professional help. When you are 40 years old, quasi-successful, miserable and alone, remember that this is all a manifestation of the appalling way in which you degrade women. I certainly hope that your aforementioned opinions are not the way you truly feel about females and that this was for the pure shock factor of writing something so biased and offensive. In all likelihood you lost a bet at the Grape and were coerced into this, but who knows. We are creatures that do not easily cope with mediocrity and being unpopular. Maybe it is not you that I am directing my claims against so much as the patriarchal society of the day. From what I can perceive, women have it a lot, and I mean a lot, harder than men. Every aspect of the feminine body and demeanor is scrutinized with an unparalleled level of detail in comparison to men. As Atticus Finch said, “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view — until you climb into their skin and walk around in it”. What you have failed to realize that in your sexual prime as a Stag, your hall of fame will have nothing to show for this season due to your degrading remarks.
I am a member of the class of 2008, and will readily admit that I do not keep up with The Mirror. I just happened across the different aspects of the “He Said” controversy. After reading the article, I was most alarmed by the terrible writing. The author begins with women taking the walk of shame after they are taken home, but then abruptly starts telling guys to run out of the house soon after waking up. Then is suddenly giving STD and pregnancy avoidance advice. He seems to jump around like Carrot Top after a steroids and cocaine cocktail. In terms of the language, it sounds as if Mr. Surette is trying way too hard. He seems to lack or ignore any sense of tact or allusion, which is rather sad for a weekly commentary writer. The writing did not strike me as outright offensive, though I have been inoculated to this sort of language after having Dan Stanczyk as the “He Said” for my senior year. But on the other hand, if you read between the lines, it’s just a collection of almost inappropriate pop culture references with a sprinkle of vulgar language. If I could give any advice to the writer, try to become quotable instead of just being a collection of other people’s words. To the editorial staff of The Mirror, the “He Said/She Said” column has always been a target for criticisms, from alumni, students and faculty. My senior year, a roommate had a class devoted to the ways that Stanczyk was demeaning towards women and proved that men are awful beasts. The best thing you can do is ask Surette to have a bit of tact and stop trying to get a mention on Collegehumor. I would tell the critics that their objections have been noted and nobody cares.
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Sincerely,
Amber Nowak ’12
Brandon Mathias ’11
Todd Bingham ’08
Condoning Rape? ‘HE Said’ Defended by Dan Leitao Staff Writer “So you condone rape?” “No, I just like He Said.” “But He Said was about rape last week, so that must mean that you condone rape.” “Not if I read it as a walk of shame and not as anything more then just that.” This has been the debate in classrooms, lunch tables, the Senate and even the lower level BCC since Wednesday after students protested the most recent article of “He Said” claiming that they will not be victimized. Since then, defending “He Said” has seemed like social suicide. For me, I have loved “He Said” since its first issue my freshman year. Every Wednesday as I walk past stacks of The Mirror, the first thing I do is flip open to “He Said.” Since I have been a student at Fairfield it seems that “He Said” has always been in involved in some sort of ruckus. Last year, Josh Kenney was referred to as a tool who did not understand the purpose of the column. I stopped reading it. The year before that, Dan Stanzyck was a sexist and now Chris Surette’s parents should be ashamed of him. Yet, The Mirror still publishes it every week and has for quite some time. Why? Because it’s what people read. It’s no wonder that FUSA President Jeff Seiser requested to have FUSA’s Mirror advertisements placed next to “He Said.” As a student, he knows it is a high traffic area of The Mirror, hoping that this might inspire
more then simply freshman bribed by FYE credit to attend FUSA events. “He Said” is popular because readers are drawn to the persona it is written in. A guy who, simply put, is a sexist, misogynistic jerk who all too often dances the line of tactful and tasteless. An insight into what “a true man’s man” would be, were he at Fairfield. This is also where many complaints come from the lack of accountability as the writer can hide behind this persona and take on the roll of what some see as a predatory male setting an improper example of the student body by referring to elicit sexual activities. After last week’s issue and some questionable diction, it
has become clear that certain groups read into “He Said” much more than I did, or ever would have. While I was laughing, others were reminded of times when they had been victims of sexual assault. My favorite part of The Mirror had caused people to feel not only offended, but hurt. Instead of giving insight into a persona of an egotistical player’s mind, they had been reminded of that persona’s evil reality. An unknown consequence of deciding to poke fun at walks of shame. So how can one defend “He Said”? Enjoyment: The saying is ‘It’s always fun till someone loses an eye’ seems to be the true story of “He Said.” After rocking the boat two years ago, “He Said” has again struck a nerve. For many readers, however,
the article still provided enjoyment to groups of readers including myself. Who does not like reading about guy’s idiocy or stupidity with the opposite sex? Lines such as “induction into the hall of fame” should be ripe with laughs at men’s needs to brag about their latest adventures and constant insecurities. Intent: The intent of this article was never to hurt those who have been sexually assaulted. To most, it is an article talking about the walk back to the dorm after a Friday night excursion. Not an article in which a male is preying on women hoping to victimize them. “Don’t be a fool, wrap your tool” was not advice to avoid prosecution after a rape kit is analyzed and your DNA is found, but instead a pearl of wisdom to stop, as Chris so aptly put it, a series of mini-me’s from running around the reader several months later. Tradition: Catholic schools seem to thrive on tradition, even at a young school like Fairfield. Tradition is something we pride ourselves on; it is something that students expect. There are enough attacks on the social traditions of Fairfield. Why must we let another tradition of interjecting humor and fun into a well-written paper be one more tradition to disappear? When I open The Mirror even now, “He Said” is where I go first and I hope that never changes. To me and many groups of people I know, these reasons have been enough for me to believe that “He Said” should stay. I can see that there is a need for revision or reassessment. However, “He Said” as an institution should be defended.
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
Page 9
A Note from HE Said Dear Students, Faculty, Staff, Alumni, and others this may concern, I am writing this letter to express my deepest apologies due to my last weeks “He Said” article. I understand that my poor choice of words has offended and upset many that are apart of Fairfield University. I am honestly embarrassed by my language. My intention was not to offend people; however, I was trying to write a satirical, humorous piece. I realize how my words crossed the line between comedy and being offensive. In the past week, I have overheard many people feeling that my article was promoting rape and violence against women, and that idea could not be more wrong. I understand that a few of the words I used could have been easily used to create this idea. However, for those who know me, they would tell you that I have the total opposite view on this subject. This idea has made me sick and I truly apologize if that notion was perceived from my article. Also, I would like to make clear that even though my language has been derogatory against women, I truly do not feel this way about them. For those of you who do not know, last semester I was the only guy in a feminism literature class called “The Women Question.” I do respect the ideas of feminism and women’s rights, even though it may not be perceived in my writing. You may be thinking, ‘why would you write this way without meaning this?’ and the reason is because you must understand the point of the “He Said/She Said” articles. Being “He Said,” as Tom Cleary pointed out in the letter from the editor, is a role. I am playing a character and I am acting. It is truly an entertainment piece. My goal is to write about the ideas that your typical 18-22 year old college male thinks and speaks with putting a humorous twist on it. These articles are not meant to be taken literally. In saying this, I do understand that I crossed the line this past week and apologize for this. Thank You, Chris Surette ’10 “He Said”
A Note from FUSA To the Editor: On behalf of the Fairfield University Student Body we commend the initiative taken by the student activists who over the past week have respectfully and passionately stood up for their beliefs that the contents of the ‘He Said’ article in last week’s issue of The Mirror was offensive. Through respectfully protesting outside The Mirror office, by bringing their concerns to the FUSA Senate and through sharing their opinions with the Editorial Board of The Mirror these students worked hard to both educate us and cultivate change within our campus community. Here at Fairfield University we all work to foster a spirit of respectful activism regarding social justice issues that include but are certainly not limited to gender equality, diversity and respect. The commitment shown by these students reflects these ideals and is something that as a student body we are proud of. The Fairfield University Student Body also recognizes and appreciates the work done by the students that bring The Mirror to our University community on a weekly basis. The Mirror provides us with a vehicle to teach one another about campus and global issues and enables us to voice our opinion regarding them. The Mirror is read by countless individuals who range anywhere from students, administrators and faculty to University Trustees, parents and perspective students. The content in the newspaper is widely read and influential among its readers. As such an influential and important aspect of student life, seeing the racial and sexist slurs written in the student newspaper last week was hurtful to our University community. Understanding these factors, the Fairfield University Student Senate, a body representing all Fairfield University Students voted last Sunday that content such as what was written in The Mirror last week can not be tolerated on our campus. The Senate also voted that as a student body we believe that should similar content continue to be published, Fairfield University should suspend its subscription with The Mirror. As a student body we want to make it clear to everyone that content that degrades any group of people has no place within our community. At Fairfield University we work to promote a University culture that both promotes and celebrates the different backgrounds and perspectives we all have. As a student body we look forward to working with The Mirror to help us promote this culture and to make Fairfield University the very best it can be.
Different Campuses, Similar Issues by Deanna Mitchell Staff Writer
When students are denied the opportunity to explore and learn from a new experience because the school does not find it suitable, the issue of censorship is likely to arise. Brigham Young University, a university based on the faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), made a decision Sept. 21 to cancel the showing of the Greek play, “The Bakkhai,” just hours before the show was to begin. According to The Daily Universe, the school’s news source, the school officials claimed the content was not suitable for the audience. Being a student of Fairfield University, I can understand why the school would be concerned, but if students are willing to pay to see Greek art, then it shouldn’t be an issue of whether it is appropriate for them or not. The plot of the ancient Greek tragedy by Euripides focuses on the demi-god, Dionysus, who takes his revenge on the king of Thebes and his family for refusing to recognize him as a higher power, and worshipping him. The play contains a lot of explicit subject matter that might make such a religiously devoted denomination a little bit uncomfortable. But college students are allowed to explore the world around them, and its history. If students or anyone of that matter, made plans to see the play, then it can be assumed that they are familiar with the plot, and the graphic nature of the content. If they do not agree with what the play displays, they don’t have to see it. Fairfield University experienced its own taste of public censorship when The Mirror published the controversial “He Said” column last week, and outraged students suggested that administrators supervise the independent newspaper’s content. The column is
meant to be satire for comic relief, and those who read that column know and understand that. It was printed because of the message it was delivering to its readers. The manner in which the message was delivered might have been a bit much, but that doesn’t mean that the voice of the students should be taken away, and the same should have been for the play. People worked hard on that production, and it was unfair of the school to simply dismiss it at the last minute simply because some people might not have done their research before buying their ticket. A production is not established overnight; it takes many months to prepare and secure. This means that those who were a part of the play, and those who approved of it, were aware of the history and subject matter long before they decided to cancel it. If Fairfield’s theatre department were to commit such an act, I believe that students would start a riot. What if authorities on the Fairfield campus told a club or organization that they cannot present a project because it doesn’t follow Jesuit values? It wouldn’t make sense especially when you have students who attend the university who are not even followers of the Jesuit or Catholic faith. BYU has set an example for other universities by using religious concerns to keep students from seeing something outside of what they already know, and that defeats the purpose of even coming to college. This rash decision may have been best for the university due to the LDS faith, but it is unfair to keep a student from expressing themselves in a specific production, and distasteful to shelter students from something they were willing to see. It’s almost as if BYU authorities forgot that they were dealing with adults, and not seven year old children.
Thank You, The FUSA Executive Cabinet Jeffrey Seiser ’10, Lauren Johnson ’11, David Axelrod ’10, Rachel Feyre ’10, Frank Fioretti ’10, Erin Mackey ’10, Alison MacNeill ’10, Edwin Muniz ’11, Christine Ruane ’10, Nicole Sweeney ’10
Photos by Peter Caty/The Mirror
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
Features | 11
Online Check for updated blogs and new content.
fairfieldmirror.com
Staying ‘Up Til Dawn’
Contributed Photo
Editor Courtney Kern » mirrorfeatures@gmail.com
Welcome to Features!
Welcome to Features, where we will inform you of only the most newsworthy, notable and interesting events happening around campus. Here you will find features on your fellow Stags, professors and Fairfield staff.
student in the “When I was 20 ...” column. “Best Week Ever” will humorously sum up the events and occurrences of the week. We will strive to be the pulse of Fairfield and cover news from all sections that effects the entire
Courtney Kern Features Editor
Fairfield’s Alpha Sigma Nu members could participate. This year the event is open to all students and the executive board would like to see more people get involved. St. Jude Children’s Hospital and Research Center in Executive Board member Stephanie Stadig ’10 said, “This Memphis, Tenn., works with colleges across the country is the first year we’re really trying to extend it to a lot of to raise funds for cancer and the student body taking it out disease stricken children. of just Alpha Sigma Nu and This will be Fairfield’s fifth bringing it campus-wide.” year participating in the “Up The night will include Til Dawn” event that helps to food from local restaurants, save lives by writing letters to music and raffles. The biggest family members and friends. raffle item will be a Nintendo The fund-raising goal is Wii. $22,500, double the amount Stadig has been inrose last year. volved with this cause since St. Jude’s Children’s elementary school when she Hospital cares for children raised money for St. Jude at a suffering from life threaten“Math-a-thon,” raising moning diseases like sickle cell ey for each math problem anemia and cancer. Founded she answered correctly. She in 1962, St. Jude has since Contributed Photo believes in what the hospital improved the childhood Fairfield University student volunteers will write letters is doing for children. to raise money for children suffering from cancer and cancer survival rate from 20 “I really love the aspect to 90 percent. What separates life threatening diseases. of it that its health care and St. Jude from other children’s treatment for everyone even hospitals is that even if the patients’ families do not have if you can’t afford it, you can still fight to stay alive,” said health insurance, they are able to receive treatment with Stadig. “This is not just good work for something far St. Jude’s funding. This cost for this assistance each day away, children from all around this area go there.” comes to $1.4 million. Tomorrow, students will notice a poster inscribed Fairfield students’ letters will hopefully help to miniwith the word “HOPE.” This poster will be on display for mize that cost. They are personalized by individual or students to write inspirational messages to the patients team volunteers and include a stamped envelope inside of St. Jude and will be sent to the hospital to be displayed so recipients can donate directly to St. Jude. For each 35 in the hallways on the way to the operating rooms. All letters sent, the hospital receives an average of $250. students are encouraged to register for the event on St. Fairfield University’s committee of 10 is hosting Jude’s Web site. “Up Till Dawn” which used to be a night in which only
Photo Illustration by Dan Leitao
Our goal is to be more than just a copy of a flyer on campus but a place where you can learn more about the people in your classes, next to you at the stir fry station in Barone, and in the BCC fundraising for their clubs. Students have been making a difference, excelling in the classroom or on the field. We will be a voice for those with an interesting story to tell. If features can help you know one person better on campus, we will consider our section a success. This is also a section where you can learn more about your professors and their days as a college
community. Plenty of photos, articles and Q&As will supply this. We will include photo spreads of the latest fashions worn on by students, new additions to campus buildings and transportation, campus visitors, controversies and gossip. Think of this section as a glossy magazine with in-depth stories and pieces and packages. Now independent from News and on its own in the centerfold of your paper, Features will be a colorful escape into a world of lighter more positive news. -Courtney Kern
The ‘Collegiate Closet’ a Safe Space for LGBT Students By Sarah Turner Staff Writer Responding to “The Collegiate Closet,” a student diversity grant project, Fairfield and the University’s Office of Student Diversity Programs has taken steps to provide support and resources for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) students through the Safe Space Ally Network Training. The training session, which took place on Wednesday, Sept. 30, gave faculty and staff ideas on how to create a campus climate that is welcoming to all students, with a special focus on LGBTQ individuals. “The training serves to indicate to people underlying attitudes towards LGBT people and to challenge stereotypes,” said Fr. Michael Doody, a trainer for the program. “The program also offers an historical perspective on the reality of prejudice — socially, politically and religiously. It then challenges the participants to examine their own attitudes and to change given new data and perspectives.”
To date, 114 Fairfield faculty and staff have participated in this training according to Meredith Marquez, the assistant director of the Office of Student Diversity Programs. In addition to learning how to address homophobia, faculty and staff are informed on the coming out process and how they can be supportive to students who come out to them. “We try to create an environment where everyone in the room can learn from one another and share strategies that work,” said Marquez. “We also talk about moral decisions, scripture, and Catholic social teaching in terms of sexuality.” The program has received a very positive response from its participants. “It was a good refresher course that presented some of the basic elements involved in being an ally to this community,” said Elizabeth Dryer, a religious studies professor. “It was especially rewarding to engage in conversation with other members of Fairfield University faculty, staff and administration who share these values.” “As an R.A., I went through the Safe
Space training and found it to be an eyeopening experience and it helped me to learn more about the LGBT community,” said Ben Heslin ‘11. The program was started in response to “the Collegiate Closet,” a study that revealed homophobia to be an issue at the University. “The report was shared with faculty, staff and students through a series of town hall meetings,” said David Gudelunas, a communications professor who supervised the report. “We also presented some key findings to members of the Board of Trustees and many administrators. The report lives online and is still read by many in the Fairfield community.” According to Marquez, the Safe Space program was one of the policy recommendations suggested in the report. The students and faculty members that worked on the report became a part of the initial Safe Space Committee. “We hope the program institutionally supports LGBTQ individuals by providing a campus environment that is safe physically, socially, spiritually and emotional-
ly,” said Marquez. “We provide education and experiential learning opportunities for the campus community to combat homophobia, heterosexism, discrimination and ignorance about LGBTQ issues.” Most are in agreement that Fairfield is making strides every day towards becoming a more accepting environment to all individuals, but more work can always be done to improve. According to Dreyer, “In the last few years, we have become more aware and pro-active in a public way, but there is always more work to be done to respect, honor, support, welcome and celebrate all persons.” “I do believe that Fairfield offers a Safe Space and that reality is becoming truer each year. We could improve by always addressing instances of hostility and prejudice and by challenging stereotypes and sexist jokes of every stripe,” said Doody. Senior Lauren Dusel said, “It is good to see faculty and staff break down the stereotypes that a Jesuit college can’t be open to all types of individuals.”
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Chatting with Erin Shea ‘10: Red Cross Club President
What is your goal for the drive? My goal is to get 100 pints each day in the spring blood drive. The blood drive always runs over two days. What other activities does the Red Cross participate in? Unfortunately, the Red Cross club had a lot of trouble finding interested club members and volunteers this year. So if anyone is interested in a membership or even an officer position in the Red Cross club, I’d love to hear from you.
Public Safety Goes Green In the University’s attempt to participate in the go green movement, the Department of Public Safety purchased a new Ford Escape Hybrid. Fairfield has only purchased one of these vehicles at the time, until they can determine if the results of the tests are positive. “If the reports continue to come back positive, there is definitely a possibility of the University purchasing more of these vehicles,” said Todd Pelazza, the Director of Public Safety. “Thus far we have determined that the mileage on the hybrid is far superior.” The Department is very conscience of the movement and purchased the new vehicle in hopes that it would reduce the carbon
footprint of the University. “Currently, we are testing to see how much of an affect the vehicle has on the environment,” said Pelazza. “We have already noticed a decrease in the gas output and an increase in the mileage.” A hybrid vehicle is constructed to operate on two sources of power, gas and electricity. The first Explorer Hybrid was released in 2004. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, this hybrid proved to be 75 percent more fuel-efficient. Fairfield has many clubs and organizations that are promoting awareness of the go green movement around campus. “This is only one way that the University is saying that ‘we’re listening,’” said Pelazza.
‘The Mirror’ Redesign
Reflecting on Mirror History
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By Michael Maio Staff Writer
Tell us about the local blood shortage. The blood shortage is an on-going problem nationwide. Only 5 percent of all eligible donors actually volunteer to donate blood. Since I’m in charge of recruitment of donors, I can attest to the fact that a large percentage of healthy adults simply elect not to donate to fears of needles. It’s quite the struggle to full up the appointment sheet every semester. The Red Cross is making the donation process a lot easier, by eliminating the “wait time” rules on tattoos and piercings. While travel (such as studying abroad) limits donor eligibility at Fairfield, I’d guess that over 80 percent of the current student population is an eligible donor.
Kristen Golen/The Mirror
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We usually get approximately 100 students each day. This is the standard number for each drive we do. In the end, 100 appointments equals approximately 85 pints of usable blood per day.
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How many students are you expecting at the blood drive this year?
Where do the nurses come from? Are they all associated with the Red Cross? The Red Cross hires nurses and phlebotomists to assist with the blood drive. All of the Red Cross blood drive employees are specially licensed and go through an extensive training program. These Red Cross specialists come from all over the state to assist with blood drives in the southern Connecticut region.
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By Courtney Kern Features Editor
2008
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
Online A review of ‘The Alternate Routes’ performance last Wednesday at the Fairfield Theatre Company
Arts & Entertainment| 13 fairfieldmirror.com
Editor Melissa Mann » mirrorentertainment@gmail.com
‘Fall’ing into Season at Fairfield By Caleigh Tansey Staff Writer
The Fall season has officially settled in the ‘203’ as we secure one month under our belts here at Fairfield University. Aside from the beautiful trees that have started to change around campus, we have so much to look forward to. For those that want more than just down time, this is the season to learn how to balance it all and get work done. If you don’t set your priorities straight now, come midterms and finals, your priorities still could be in the summer and party mode, minus the hot weather. Since it has now become colder, not only can we dress more comfortably, but we can also be more motivated to do our work. The list certainly will go on for all the attractions of the fall season, but to narrow it down, the top five best things about fall are as follows:
1. Fashion The fashion of the season is the best part. Girls, this weather is perfect for the brand new cardigans and flats you’ve been dying to wear! Flats are my favorite, but it looks as though over the knee boots are the up and coming shoeware, and for anyone who is 5’2’’ like myself, that may not be the best choice! You can never go wrong with layering, so the fact that it is now cold enough to wear scarves and cardigans together is the best part. Ruffles and bows are back as well, so tap into your ultra feminine side and wear as many ruffles and bows as you want, without over doing it of course.
2. Clubs and Sports This is also the season to get involved, either it be with sports or clubs and activities. It is still the beginning of the school year and you still have time to join a group where you can contribute and do something you like. If you don’t want to play a sport, get involved some other way like Stags in the Stands or Campus Ministry. The list goes on and the possibilities are truly endless with all of the different things people on our campus are interested in. The Fall varsity sports are into
their seasons and still need more support from Fairfield fans, so if you have nothing to do one day, grab a friend and go to a soccer or rugby game and cheer on your Fairfield Stags.
3. Food One of the reasons why fall is a favorite season for most people is because of the food that is associated with it. Something fun to do on a rainy day while your stuck in your dorm or house is to make caramel or candy apples. Most Halloween candy is on sale now too, so if you don’t care what you look like in your costume come the 31st, you can get two of your favorite bags of candy for $5 and start early. Pumpkin spiced lattes are back at Starbucks and calling my name every time I need a caffeine fix. Unfortunately, since Fairfield has taken cars away from sophomores, Jazzman’s interpretation will do just fine. Apple pie is obviously another favorite, so if you can’t get a homemade slice, you could get real creative and make your own. Baking not only makes the kitchen smell good, but it also lets you indulge in your favorite foods. A freshly baked cookie and milk is the perfect thing to eat while watching the newest episode of Gossip Girl or even a Sunday Football game.
Melissa Mann/The Mirror
The Sukkah, in a hut in front of Donnarumma, represents the fall harvest season.
4. Halloween The more I talk about food, the more I want Halloween candy, which leads to the final and last thing on the list of fall favorites (besides Thanksgiving), Halloween. Halloween is a lot of fun at Fairfield and a holiday that gives us an excuse for dressing absolutely ridiculous. No matter how much you love your costume, it is still ridiculous, and that is the best part. Last year I was a German Beer girl and an army girl in one weekend. I am surprised my friends and I didn’t dress up more with the amount of costumes we had. Dressing up and going out with your friends on Halloween definitely beats the typical tight, sexy dress you squeeze into on the weekends. Guys, obviously you don’t wear tight and sexy dresses on the weekends, but with the Halloween costumes Melissa Mann/The some of you put together, I’m sure Halloween Mirror is much more fun for you than an average weekend too.
5. The Sukkah Here is something else that may spark an interest to those who
need a break from the social and academic aspect of school. If you are looking for some down time in between classes or just in general, make sure to stop by the Sukkah made by the Judaic Studies department and other volunteers. For the next week, during the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, the Sukkah, which is a temporarily built hut, will be up and welcoming anyone who stops by. The Sukkah is between Canisius and Donnarumma halls and is decorated for the fall season. The Jewish holiday of Sukkot was originally to acknowledge the time of harvest and the gathering of harvested vegetables and fruit before the winter season began. The fact that Fairfield students and faculty have come together to build a Sukkah to celebrate the season is really exciting and something to go see if you have the time. Fall has set its mark, so now it is up to us how we want to make these next few months special before winter takes its toll. Fairfield can be as boring as you create it to be, but there are actually a lot of things to do and so much going on all the time. As soon as you get involved or just hang out with your friends and do something you like, the season will carry you through and before you know it you’ll be worrying about what to buy everyone for Christmas. Have fun now and prioritize your life, and this fall season will be the best you’ve had yet!
The Best Songs for our Party Playlist By Dan Leitao Staff Writer
When you hear that song that was from before your time, (no matter if it is Beatles, Rolling Stones, Steve Miller Band, The Boss, U2) or any of those songs from the oldies radio station at home, it seems that everyone pauses and turns to say how much they love the song.
“Hey man put that song on again, it is a good one to drink to.” As ‘Let’s Get F***** Up’ begins to play on the speakers, I raise my shot glass and take down another shot. The music continues and I feel the urge to do another shot. Music and drinking seem to go hand and hand. Throughout the phases of the designated party night, music is with us every minute.
Let the beat rock Good base pounding is always needed, whether its to get people out and dancing or to turn a party in to a rave. Rap, hiphop, and techno seem to compel party goers.
Crap, I know the words to girlie songs Miley, Taylor Swift, Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson. Once you have a few drinks, your love for one of those singers usually starts to come out. While “Party In The U.S.A.” is starting, it seems every one knows she has hopped off the plane in L.A.X. But play to many of these in a row and the guys will start heading to the door.
Pre-game Pre-gaming music is just as important as partying music. Music sets the tempo and mood for the night, so a proper playlist is in order. To accompany this music, a drinking activity is needed. Casually drink, power-hour, or a random assortment of other pre-game drinking games? The power hour is the most typical game: a compilation of 60 songs which play for a minute before changing. Each time the song changes the participants drink a designated amount of alcohol, often a shot glass filled with beer.
Party Just like a lack of drinking games and alcohol, no music or bad music can kill your party. Generally a playlist that crosses genres will keep everyone happy. As long as it’s not strictly emo, indie, or hard core country everyone will enjoy themselves. And under a certain level of intoxication, everyone loves Miley Cyrus’ “Party in the USA.”
Oldies but goodies
Photo illustration by Dan Leitao
Why is that on?
At every party it seems someone has to play one of those songs. Often if I’m at the party it’s one of my country tunes, or maybe the iPod is on shuffle and it’s “Stranded in the Drive Through” from Grease, if only it had been “Grease Lightening.” We all have those songs on our iPod and when they come on we cringe and can’t run quick enough to change the song in time. Your only hope is that someone has not thrown your iPod out of the speakers and into a half filled solo cup. Don’t forget to END the party with “Don’t Stop Believing,” just like every high school dance.
Pass Out We venture back to our room for the night, if we are lucky enough to be joined by a visitor. We go to the computer and quickly find the playlist that we have for such occasions.
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
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iPick By Alex Gonzalez Staff Writer Song: Young Forever Artist: Jay-Z
Song: Robin Hood Artist: The Rifles
Hov’s back with a new album and you know what, “I like it.” This is the last song on the album and it’s about all of the shenanigans Jay-Z has been pulling throughout his career. It features Mr. Hudson, who I predict is going to be the next Chris Martin (Coldplay) in a couple of years. Honestly, it’s a slow, spectacular spectacle.
The Rifles are the best new band you haven’t heard of yet. It’s like a mixture of Jack Johnson and the Beach Boys all blended together with some Artic Monkeys. “Robin Hood” is a great song to play in the background of a Beer-B-Q. But enough of all the praise just stop what you are doing right now and download their album “No Love Lost.”
Song: Where’s There Gold Artist: Dashboard Confessional
Song: Losing Touch Artist: The Killers
Peter Caty/The Mirror
This song should have been The Killers’ single instead of “Human,” it combines everything the band has been about in the past five years into one song. Perfect for driving or for riding along the Stag Bus at least; this song is The Killers at its best. It’s beyond beautiful.
I am stuck on this one. This song demonstrates how amazing Chris Carrabba’s (the lead singer for those of you aren’t following along) voice truly is. My only problem with this song is that it’s only 2:29 minutes long. Step it up Dashy, I want double that.
Song: Perfect Situation Artist: Weezer Weezer is quite possibly the most underrated band of our generation. “Perfect Situation” just might be the perfect rock song. It starts off slow with an insane hook, builds up, and ends with the most passionate chorus you will ever hear. I give this one a high five and a gold star.
The Right Bite a review of restaurants in and around Fairfield
The Pantry at 1580 Post Road By Michelle Haag Staff Writer
Located at 1580 Post Road, The Pantry offers a variety of delectable foods. If you don’t live in Fairfield, you might not know what it is. The majority of students do not know about this place, even though it has been in business for six years. It is in a mini-shopping center off the main
Contributed Photo
The Pantry’s in-house bakery features all kinds of freshly baked sweets and breads.
road next to Starbucks. Contributed Photo This Gourmet Grocery The Pantry features a gourmet grocery store in addition to the deli and salad bar. Store gets overlooked by Firehouse Deli and The tions. After I order my meal, I usually pick up a few things Chef’s Table because of its location, but if you’re looking from Kashi cereal to chips and salsa. If you can’t find a for a tasty, fresh lunch, this is the place to go. specific type of organic or health food at Stop and Shop, The Pantry will have someone make your personalit is likely that you will find it at the Pantry. The market ized salad in front of your eyes. My typical salad topping has my favorite iced tea that I rarely find: Joe Tea, which I is the edamame peas and my go-to dressing is the Asian highly suggest. It tastes better than any Snapple or Arizona citrus. The lettuce is crunchy, clean, and garden-fresh. You Iced Tea I’ve ever had. The Pantry is always stocked with won’t find any romaine that is soggy or unwashed. food. You will never encounter a time where they run out Salads are not their only specialty. They have a of your favorite salad dressing. deli with fresh specialty meats at reasonable prices, This place is not only for those who are health conand they offer more toppings and dressing selections scious. If you’re craving something sweet, The Pantry has than most of the other restaurants in town. If you want a pastry shop where everything is baked from scratch. I a specific kind of sandwich, they will make it. The presuggest trying their chocolate chip cookies, which are soft pared foods are made daily. I particularly like the Penne and chewy. The freshness of the food makes me feel like a la Vodka. They also have options for vegetarians like I’m home. They even have homemade ice cream! vegetable quesadillas. The service is efficient and the The Pantry is not a place where you would sit down people that work there are very accommodating to their and eat, instead, it’s atmosphere is more of a place that customers. If you have a question, just ask, because you would go for lunch take-out. If you live in the area and they are friendly and willing to help. are throwing a party, they also have their own catering The Pantry is not only a salad bar and deli, it is services. If you haven’t been to The Pantry yet, I strongly also a mini market that contains many healthy opurge you to give it a try.
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
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Jazz and Blues Come to Westport Arts Center By Renee Borghesi Staff Writer
Rambunction got feet tapping and heads bopping to “Go to the Mardi Gras,” “Mardi Gras Mambo,” Ray Charles’ “I Got A Woman,” and Stevie Wonder’s “Boogie On Reggae Woman.” Boissiere played “Dontcha Feel My Leg,” a song
mother never sang the lyrics for him. The tune “Yellow Moon” was a crowd favorite, along with “Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans” It doesn’t have to be a night in Preservation Hall that featured the keyboard and vocals. during Mardi Gras to experience the joy The Westport Arts Center provided an of New Orleans. The Westport Arts intimate setting for the concert. The band Center kicked off its jazz concert series talked to the audience in between their songs. this past Saturday with a performance Boissiere shared stories of his family and his called “New Orleans Jazz, Rhythm and days playing with the Neville Brothers as well Blues Party With Renard Boissiere and as discussing the background to the songs Rambunction.” they were playing. Rambunction, a.k.a. the Renard Boissiere had moved back to New OrBoissiere Quartet, played a diverse leans in 2003 but left after Hurricane Katrina musical repertoire of blues, jazz, funk, hit. The three other players are all from the calypso and more. Connecticut area and formed the band with The group is made up of keyboard Boissiere after he moved up to this region. player and vocalist Renard Boissier, “One great thing about New Orleans bassist Steve Clarke, guitarist Chris musicians is generally speaking they give Morrison and drummer Kurt Berglund. back to the community,” Boissiere said. He Boissiere, born in 1966, is a native of had taught at the Jean Gordon School in New New Orleans. Boissiere’s family owned Orleans and told the story of three men who a funeral home in New Orleans, and stood outside the school in the blistering heat they often hired jazz bands for the futo play for a few hours for the children. Older nerals which led to Boissiere’s interest musicians know how important it is to pass and participation in playing jazz. on the importance of music to today’s youth, The band entertained the crowd Contributed Photo Boissiere explained. with groovy solos, strong vocals and Renard Boissiere performed typical New Orleans jazz with his jazz quartet at the Westport The Westport Arts Center is a visual and Boissiere’s mouth trumpet technique: Arts Center. performing arts organization dedicated to using the vocal chords to produce a creating experience that enrich the local comdesired pitch and passing the sound munity. It is holding a number of upcoming through the lips to produce a trumpet-like sound. Guitarfrom the 1920s. He learned it in tribute to his maternal events, including live performances of “Introduction to ist Chris Morrison said that they have been playing togeth- grandmother, whom he referred to as a great piano player Jazz” on Sunday, Nov. 15 at 3 p.m., “A Holiday Jazz Party er for four years and Boissiere kept the other musicians on even though she could not read music. Boissiere joked In Honor of Sally White” on Thursday, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., their toes because he never played a song the same way. that it wasn’t until later, after understanding the lyrics and and an exhibition called “Jazz Photographs by Milt Hilton” “That’s why you call it jazz!” Boissiere replied. what the song was about, did he realize why his grandrunning from Dec. 4 to early next year.
‘Brand New Eyes’ Reflects Paramore’s Growth By Gabriella Tutino Assistant Entertainment Editor While picking up a copy of the new Paramore CD, I bumped into senior Justin Smith. He looked at my purchase and declared “Sweet!” Hate to break it to you, Justin, but “Brand New Eyes,” Paramore’s third album, is anything but sweet. Paramore has balanced on the edge of being pop-punk and hard rock, but with this album the band has crossed to the edgier side. Riding on the success of its sophoContributed Photo more album “Riot!,” the female-fronted Paramore’s new CD is worth listening to. band has decided to test out a new sound; the addition of guitarist Taylor York and more song writing collaborative have led to a variety of songs that differ from Paramore’s previous music. The new single “Ignorance” captures the band’s highenergy anthem spirit, while tracks like “Turn it Off” and “Misguided Ghosts” showcase a softer, calmer side. The album can be divided into two halves with track six marking the divider. The first half is typical Paramore with heavily-strummed guitar openings, wailing, and anthem-esque beats. The second half, marked by “The Only Exception” has a lighter feel; the songs being more in the pop and acoustic range. The second half of the album also marks the diversity of the album and shows the change in the band’s collaborative process. Paramore has come far from its emo roots found on its debut CD “All We Know is Falling;” the 11 track album definitely has a more mature edge. The lyrics have the same subject matter as Parmore’s last two albums — broken friendships, love, connections, self-discovery — but there is no accusatory tone, no whining. Vocalist Hayley Williams sings about taking a stand, moving on and not being tied down by other people’s petty emotions. Her vocals are as strong as ever, best displayed on the track “All I Wanted.” She’s as electric as ever hitting those high notes, and hits you by surprise with her unexpected softness on other tracks. “Brand New Eyes” isn’t a concept album by any means, but it’s an example of Paramore’s experimentation and growth. On its website www.paramore.net the band talks about how it was a cathartic creative process working on this album and it shows. The influences, experiences and raw emotions of Paramore shine through on this seamless compilation. Brand New Eyes offers such a unique voice from Paramore that it is its strongest album yet.
What’s Happening Thursday 10/8 4:30 p.m. - Jersey Boys on Broadway 7:30 p.m. - Band Together/Deep Earth at the Fairfield Theater Company 8:00 p.m. - Open Visions: Khaled Hosseini at the Quick Center 8:30 p.m. - Raptoberfest at Toad’s Place Friday 10/9 “Couples Retreat” opens in theaters 6:30 p.m. - Rocktoberfest at Toad’s Place 7:30 p.m. - Marshall Crenshaw at the Fairfield Theater Company 8:00 p.m. - Raul Malo at the Quick Center Saturday 10/10 1:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m. - Metropolitan Opera HD: Tosca at the Quick Center (2 shows) Sunday 10/11 6:30 p.m.- Kate Voegle at Webster Theater
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Upcoming Events
Jersey Boys: The Broadway Hit - Thurs.,October 8th - Buses leave at 4:30pm Hypnotist Jim Spinnato - Thurs., October 15th - 8pm at Lower Level BCC Six Flags: Fright Fest - Sat., October 17 - Buses Leave at 11am Tickets on sales TODAY! Res Life and FUSA present: Oktoberfest - Sat., October 17 - 9pm at The Levee
Senate Speaks Out
- Resolution S46-06 - “Be it resolved, that the Fairfield University Student Association (FUSA) commends the initiative taken by the several student activists that respectfully and passionately stood up for what they believed in in an attempt to educate the student body and cultivate change.”
Featured Event
Fairfield University Open Visions Forum Featuring: Khlaed Hosseini October 8, 2009 @ 8PM in the Quick Center The Internationally-acclaimed best-selling author of “The Kite Runner” and “A Thousand Splendid Suns” shares his perspective on the voices of Afghanistan
Oktoberfest
FUSA and Residence Life present: Oktoberfest! A new Fairfield Tradition Saturday, October 17th - 9PM @ the Levee German food, mocktails, -German beer (for 21+), and an authentic german band dancing, trivia (with prizes!)
FUSA: THE OFFICIAL STUDENT GOVERNMENT OF FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY BY THE STUDENTS, FOR THE STUDENTS FUSA Senate Speaks Out: - Resolution 46-05 - “Be it resolved, the Secretary of Student Life will work with the appropriate administrators to place bicycle racks in other necessary locations on campus.” - Resolution S46-06 - “Be it resolved, that the Fairfield University Student Association (FUSA) commends the initiative taken by the several student activists that respectfully and passionately stood up for what they believed in in an attempt to educate the student body and cultivate change.” - Resolution S46-07 -”Be it resolved, that the views and opinions presented in the aforementioned “He Said” section do not faithfully represent the views and opinions of the entire Fairfield University Undergraduate Student Become our fan on Facebook! Body.” TO PURCHASE TICKETS FOR EVENTS: Visit the BCC Info Desk For more information: Visit the FUSA OFFICE at the lower level BCC OR LOG ONTO FAIRFIELD.EDU/FUSA
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
Online Check online every week for answers to our games. Also see a press release regarding ‘He Said.’
Ed. Note: These articles are intended to be comedy and satire.
Chris Surette For the Fairfield rookies, it’s time they learn that Fairfield U. is known as J Crew U. for a reason. Honestly, walking around campus is like walking to into a seasonal catalog for that company. And I am pretty convinced that some of these kid’s wardrobes are more expensive than my car. But let’s be real, when you’re going out, nobody really cares where your threads are from, but as long as you look fresh to death you’ll be alright for the night. The only advice I really have is to make sure your attire is appropriate for the situation. For example, if you’re going to a classy place make sure you rock a fresh buttondown. Guys, girls turn into m&m’s and melt when they see that. However, if you are going to a casual house party you cannot go wrong with just the jeans and T-shirt look. Just make sure your clothes are clean because you don’t want people thinking you’re homeless. Going to school in the seventh richest county in America, it’s all about the Benjamins to some of these people, so try to look the part. However, I truly do not care what you guys wear out because fashion is not my
Disclaimer: This section is meant for entertainment only. These opinions are not a reflection of the paper as a whole.
Coffee Break | 17
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Editor Tom Cleary » mirrorcoffeebreak@gmail.com
HE said / SHE said What Not to Wear forte and I think it is nearly as dumb as Jon and Kate Gosselin having a television show. But I do think that there are two fashion issues that we see at Fairfield more than any university in the country. And they are guys popping their collars and wearing different color khaki pants. The popping collar look is the definition of a Guido. Guys, collars were meant to be down and even though The T-shirt guy’s elegantly written article from a few years back promotes it to be fashionable, I have never seen a guy pull it off, just like a chick would never pull it off you. As for the different color khakis, that is too easy a subject to mock. But if I was wearing a pair of blue pants with white stripes as Ray Penzi did the other night at the Grape, I do not think I could ever take myself seriously. I know that was too easy of a shot to take, buddy, but if I saw myself in those pants I probably would kick my own a**. Just remember, you should care about your dress in order to get the girl. Girls do not want to have an intellectual conversation with you that night if you’re looking like a scrub.
It’s difficult to guess correctly what the appropriate attire will be for a night of debauchery. Sometimes girls are decked out in dresses and heels, and other nights you’ll find girls in jeans and tanks. I’m no Rachael Zoe, but try to keep your clothes on in large crowds of people. Heels can be a great addition — slim you, make you taller, and can be fun, but if you can’t manage to keep your heels on all night, then wear different shoes. There is no point in wearing the heels and walking all the way to the party in them, if they will come off when you get there anyway. Walking home, heels in hand, is pretty trashy. And walking on the beach will just result in them coming off anyway. Now for the top half. There seems to be a not-so-new phenomenon invading not just Fairfield, but the nation — The Shress. I saw this term on urban dictionary this summer and have not been able to stop using it since. The shress is a mix between a shirt and a dress — it can be debated whether or not it is long enough to be a dress, but may be too long to wear as a shirt. If you’re still not sure what I mean, you can conduct your own case study at Forever 21. The Shress
Allyson Wuensch has made it possible to go from a class appropriate look to an evening look by just removing your pants. If this sounds appealing to you, you’ll be happy to know that the shress comes in a wide variety of colors, and styles. Owning a shress will basically ensure that you are set for any evening out at Fairfield. Guys have it easy — particularly in the clothing department. For a townhouse or beach party you can pretty much get away with the same jeans you’ve worn all week and an amusing T-shirt (there is a difference between amusing and disgusting — please keep it amusing). But please stop wearing the same outfit every time you go out. We’re girls, we notice. If you’re going to hit the bar, it’s nice to see it taken a step further. Wearing a button down or collared shirt shows you know how to dress yourself. I’m not saying this is your only option for the bar, but it will definitely prove that after 21 years, you’ve learned how to dress yourself. And don’t wear anything too tight because you think its showing off your muscles — you don’t want to compete with the girls. No matter what you wear just remember one thing — keep it classy Fairfield.
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Field Hockey
Stags Fall to No. 20 Albany in First Conference Game By Devon Porrino Staff Writer After an upsetting loss against Albany on Saturday at Albany, the Fairfield Field Hockey Team is determined to avenge their last year’s game against Boston University this Saturday. Fairfield, who is ranked 57th in the nation, lost to Albany, ranked 20th in the nation, 7-1 with an unassisted goal by sophomore, Marit Westenberg. It was the Field Hockey team’s first conference game of the season. Overall the Stags have a 4-7 record, but still have six games left to better their record. Boston University, who is Nieuwenhuis ranked 32nd in the nation, according to fieldhockeycorner.com, will face Fairfield in Fairfield’s second conference game this Saturday. In order to make the American East tournament, the Stag’s need to
win three out of their five conference games. “It has been a big goal of ours for the past three years,” said junior and center back Anne Nieuwenhuis. “And this year it really feels like we can get there.” Last year the Field Hockey team lost to BU 3-2. After leading with two goals in the first half, Boston University took the game from Fairfield, scored two goals in the second half and scored the final goal on a corner in the last play of the game after time had run out. Despite the loss, the members of the field hockey team are more determined than ever. To make sure BU is a victory for the Stags, the Field Hockey team is working hard and preparing to win. “We have an entire week of practice and we’ll be focusing on improving our presses, passing patterns, our shot to goal percentage, and trying out new playing systems,“ said Nieuwenhuis. The game against BU will take place this Saturday at 1 p.m. The game, which is a SAAC (Student Athlete Advisory Committee) event, is part of the reason the Field Hockey team is even more excited.
Every sports team is allowed to pick one game they would like sanctioned as a SAAC event. This is a game that they want all the other sports teams to come and watch. The field hockey team picked its game against BU because they know it will be a great game and want to have the stands packed as they pursue their revenge for last year’s loss. “When we have a lot of people there supporting us, we always do better,” said Nieuwenhuis. In order to lock down their win against BU, field hockey is making changes from last weekend such as looking to improve their focus during warm-up, quicker touches, and better executed adjustments on the fly. “I think if we play our game, we can win, but all of us have to give everything and we have to work together. It takes all of us,” said junior midfielder Michelle Onofrio. “Yes, we definitely can,” said Nieuwenhuis, “We’re convinced we can do this.”
What to Watch for Fairfield’s finest games on campus this week
Volleyball v. Siena
Saturday, Oct. 10 - Alumni Hall - 2 p.m. State of the Stags: Riding two straight MAAC wins, head coach Alija Pittenger and the Stags set out to prove that a young starting lineup ins beginning to mature against Siena, the team’s rival and last season’s Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Champions.
Introducing...
Stag Spotlight
Freshmen Michael O’Keeffe Men’s Soccer
Q&A with Freshman Kara Reis Volleyball
« The Mirror: Tell me a little bit about your first
« Kara Reis: “It kind of felt like a high school
game at Alumni Hall (on Sept. 15 against Fordham). Any pre-match jitters?
Reis
band. But we’ve never had a band or anything at my high school. It was a little bit more intense. I was a little bit more nervous just because it is a higher level of play. But the transition has been good so far because my teammates have made it an easy one.”
« The Mirror: Volleyball has won two consecutive MAAC games
and five of its last six. Did this season’s difficult out-of-conference schedule prepare you for the conference season? «Kara Reis: “Definitely. I think our coach picked those tourna-
ments to make us stronger and make us a mentally tougher team. I think that it helped. We were a little scared of them at first, but then it makes you tougher and makes you want to play harder. Even if you lose, it is one of those tough losses that you deal with, you take it, and you work on improving and just try to improve.”
« The Bio: O’Keeffe, a native of New Zealand, was one of the Stags’ elite prospects entering 2009. The rookie turned heads with strong preseason play, so much so that he claimed a spot as the team’s starting goalkeeper at the outset of the season. O’Keeffe has had success long before Fairfield, though. The goalkeeper was on New Zealand’s Under-17 World Cup team.
O’Keeffe
«The Streak: Despite the team’s early-season
struggles by virtue of a brutal out-of-conference schedules, both the Stags and O’Keeffe have come on of late. The team currently boasts a three-game win streak, and O’Keeffe is largely to credit. The goalkeeper has allowed only one goal in the team’s past three trips to the pitch, including a double-overtime victory against Northeastern in which O’Keeffe saved six shots on goal. « The Props: This past week, the Metro Atlantic Athletic Confer-
ence (MAAC) named O’Keeffe the league’s Rookie of the Week. O’Keeffe posted a pair of shutouts and led the Stags to three consecutive victories.
Mirror Sports 3 X 5 Biggest surprise postPlayoff Baseball More likely to get upset: seaon team? Yankees or Red Sox Edition Tom Cleary Editor in Chief
Keith Connors General Manager
Chris Simmons Managing Editor
Best player left in the postseason?
Does the National League have a chance to repeat?
Man crush: Jeter, Ellsbury or none of the above?
The Red Sox. And it’s not because
The Rockies. Even though we
Joe Mauer. Although I have to give
No way. Between the Red Sox,
As much as I love Ellsbury, I have
I think the Yankees are better, but
knew they would be in long ago,
love to Jon Lester. Big Game Jon.
Angels and Yankees, the NL has
to go with Jon Lester. No-hitter,
the Twins can’t beat them.
noone saw it coming in April.
no shot.
beat cancer ... he can’t be beat.
The Yankees. And it’s not because
Saving money, building through
Joe Mauer. He built a log cabin ...
Huh? There were playoffs last
I think the Red Sox are better, but
the system, and patience. I’m
complete with a bowling alley and
year? It’s been so long for the
the Angels can’t beat them.
stunned there are playoffs in NYC.
batting cage. Go ahead, google it.
Bombers ... I feel deprived.
El Capitan. Yeah, Jeets.
I bet I could predict it if I knew A-
The Orioles ... oh wait. Wait till next
Albert “Winnie the” Pujols. It’s
They only have to win four games
Kevin Youkilis may be the Greek
rod and Oritz’s cycles. Or maybe
year again. But at least we aren’t
kinda sad I had to rely on Chris
out of seven. Even the Orioles do
God of walks, but there’s another
it was just Visine ...
the Mets, they spend money and
Berman to bail me out of thinking
that on occasion.
Greek god, and his name is Nick
they still suck.
of a witty answer.
Markakis.
The Mirror | Week of Oct. 7, 2009
Women’s Soccer
MLB Baseball
Page 22
Injuries slow Stags in MAAC There’s Only One By Chris Simmons Managing Editor
Jim O’Brien. “But I though they were very sluggish. We definitely have more speed than them, but we didn’t utilize it.” The Stags were also in the midst of their second straight week with three games and without some key players. Seniors Casey Frobey and Chrissie Sidie and freshman Lauren Reilly were all sidelined for the game. “I’m not an excuse maker, but not having Casey Frobey, Chrissie Sidie and Lauren Reilly at our disposal hurt us. Being able to bring Lauren Reilly off the bench to have that speed would help. But the problem with that is that Siena played Friday too,” said O’Brien. “They played an opportunistic game. It’s not necessarily the way I think the game should be played, but they came out in the second half and did the job. In the end, we’re paid to win games.” With a youthful roster and some injuries, O’Brien is not making excuses and asking his team to step up. “It’s a challenge that I put to the team. You can put the rebuilding label on us, but I still feel we’re one of the best in the MAAC.”
The women’s soccer team entered the weekend with a pair of home MAAC games against undefeated conference opponents. Both Siena and Marist boasted 2-0 records while the Stags won their only MAAC appearance to date, against Iona. On Friday, regulation and two overtimes wasn’t enough to give a winner, as Fairfield and the Red Foxes played 110 minutes to a 1-1 draw. Marist scored first at 17:34 in the first half, but the Stags responded when senior Adrienne Boyer lofted a corner to sophomore Bri Miller who pushed it into the back of the net. Fairfield nearly won in overtime as junior Nicole Cavallaro headed a ball into the upper corner of the goal, but Marist goalie Jamie Balzarini was able to just tip the ball away. “Friday was definitely a tough game. Giving up goals early, or first, is always very difficult to come back from,” said sophomore goalie Kelly Boudreau. The Stags again gave up a goal first on Sunday, falling behind 2-0 early in the second half. Fairfield out shot Siena 8-1 in the first half, but entered the half tied. Fairfield would narrow the lead after a Stags’ player was fouled in the box and Boyer hit a shot into the right-hand corner of the net with 10 minutes left. But the Stags would be unable to equal the score. “I thought we dominated the first half,” said Boudreau. “We need to cut down on silly mistakes and maintaining our focus.” Two yellow cards late in the second half, one on Siena and one on freshmen Rachel Madasci also marred the game along with a focus Siena crowd and a lot of shouting at the referee. “We’ve never beaten them in the regular season since I’ve been here,” said Boudreau. But the Stags did knock out the Saints last year in the MAAC Conference Tournament. Niles Muzyk/The Mirror “The first half we played very well,” said head coach Freshman Nikki Stanton battles for the ball against Marist.
October at Fairfield By Eric Bernsen Staff Writer October is finally here, so all baseball fans know that means the playoffs are about to take off. It is looking to be an exciting month, especially for those of us on campus who choose sides in the Red Sox vs Yankees rivalry. Both teams are looking strong for the postseason run and it will be a treat if they square off once again in the ALCS. But first, lets take a look at the ALDS (American League Division Series) and NLDS (National League Division Series) matchups that will be starting off this week: Minnesota Twins vs New York Yankees: The Yankees, finished the season on a strong note and appear to be primed for a deep run in the playoffs. New York has a great supporting cast in the lineup, but this year the pitching has been much improved and is the main reason behind their success. The Twins have been on fire recently and get the chance to take on Detroit, and as all New York baseball fans have realized in the past decade, nothing is guaranteed. Boston Red Sox vs Los Angeles Angels: Here we are again as the Red Sox and Angels have faced off in the ALDS three times since 2002. Boston won all three series, but that does not mean manager Terry Francona and the Sox do not have concerns for this year’s match-up. LA doesn’t have a definite ace but they have four starters who are capable of shutting teams down. The X-factor may be pitcher Scott Kazmir.
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Men’s Soccer
Uy Brothers Reunite at Fairfield Continued from page 24 they have played on a team became a part of their lives early on. “Soccer is a sport that’s really easy to fall in love with. It’s a sport that anyone can play,” Christian said. Anyone might be able to play soccer, but few have been able to play like the Uy brothers. Growing up on Long Island, they used each other to create a healthy competition. With the same goal in mind, both brothers push each other to get better and that really helps keep them focused. “I’ve never had another teammate like myself but when I play with my brother it’s like I do. There’s nothing like playing together,” said Christian. This isn’t the first time
together. At Kellenberg High School in Long Island, Christian and Matt both earned All-State Honors. Once they both ended up at Fairfield, first Christian, then Matt, Rees put together a program that would help make their dream a reality. As a senior, Christian Uy realizes how important Rees has been in his life. “Coach is the most important figure in my collegiate career no question. His confidence and backing of me, my brother, all his players really help us push ourselves to the next level,” said Christian. As important as soccer is in the Uy family, the family part still comes first. Christian and Matt’s father was also a soccer player and has been
Peter Caty/The Mirror
Senior Christian Uy dribbles in practice as classmates Kwadwo Asante and Charlie Grover look on.
there since day one supporting them. The family always tries to come to as many games as possible and their
“Soccer is a sport that’s really easy to fall in love with.” -Christian Uy support continues to be a big factor in the brothers success. When the two aren’t playing soccer, Christian and Matt spend as much time with their family as possible. “As much time as you can spend with your family, joking around, hanging out. That’s what its all about,” said Christian. The family is close but nobody is closer than the two brothers. When asked how the two were different, Christian paused for a couple of minutes, took out his phone and called his brother. Matt didn’t have an answer either. With such an incredibly tight and special bond, the Uy brothers are doing something that very few brothers can do, play soccer at the Division One level. As they get closer to the end of their time here at Fairfield, they said that they hope that one day, they will be able to play together professionally.
Nathans Hoping for Strong Seasons in Baseball, Soccer Continued from page 24
finals. “People were doubting us. Playing Loyola everyone saw us as the underdog,” said Nathans. Nathans adjused to highly competitive opponents in high-pressured games. He has mastered this skill since his first year. During his first year, Nathans blasted the winning goal against Iona from about 35 yards to win the game. “His left foot is a canon,” said head soccer coach Carl Rees. “He manages his time so that he does not have any conflict with school and sports,” said senior Kwadwo Asante. In the spring, Nathans fights a hot sun as he fields ground balls as sweat drops from his fitted baseball cap. He can hit for power and get on base consistently. In March 2009, Nathans was the MAAC player of the week when he set the single season record with 69 hits. His average for the season was .377 with a .307 average in conference play. “Last year when we won a nine game win streak … everything seemed to be going right for the baseball team. The whole team just came Tucker brings a through.” According to Nathans, the baseball team’s committment to biggest obstacle was themselves. Although the win that is second team started slow, they kept working and workto none on our ing and all of a sudden, they found that they team.” could be on top. As a junior Economics major, he is cur-Carl Rees rently taking five classes. It is unclear whether his coaches think it is unusual that he is playing both sports, but they treat Nathans like every other player and expect the same from him as they do from everyone else. “Hopefully we will be back on top again like last year,” said Nathans in regards to the baseball team’s success. Teamwork is important to Nathans and he knows that effort from each individual player is essential for that click to happen. “Tucker is a good teammate because he is there for you when you struggle and he is always in your corner no matter what,” said Stags senior outfielder Jason Rago. Nathans wanted to play both soccer and baseball in college because he has played both his whole life. “Tucker brings a commitment to win that is second to none on our team,” said Rees. Athleticism runs in his family. His brother who played baseball at the University of Richmond. After Richmond, the Boston Red Sox drafted his brother. Nathans always wanted to play two sports and the only way he would choose would be if he were able to pursue a professional career in one of them.
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Standing Together Peter Caty/The Mirror
Men’s soccer players Christian Uy (10), Erik Ilisje (14), Matthew Uy (14) and Tucker Nathans (15) stand for the National Anthem prior to a game. The Stags are 4-4 heading into MAAC play on Friday.
Uy Brothers Stick Together Through Season’s Ups and Downs By Sean Clores Staff Writer Since they were young, playing one-on-one soccer in their backyard, Christian and Matt Uy have been chasing one goal, becoming professional soccer players. Now, years later, they continue chasing that dream as starting midfielders for Fairfield University men’s soccer team. Christian, a senior, is taking full advantage of his opportunities at Fairfield. Starting for most of his college career, Uy showed his talent from the very beginning. He finished off his impressive freshman year by scoring the go - ahead goal against UConn in the 2006 NCAA tournament. Fairfield went on to win that game and that remains the only win for Fairfield athletics in the NCAA tournament. Through his sophomore and junior year, Uy continued to live up to expectations. He played in every game and finished last season as the MAAC tournament MVP. The accomplishments that he’s collected over his years here have been great, but nothing has been more rewarding than playing with his brother, Matt.
“When I came here I thought it was a really good, healthy environment for me and when my brother was looking to go to school I told him the same thing,” said Christian. This is the third year the Uy brothers have been playing at Fairfield together. Matt is in his junior and is putting together Peter Caty/The Mirror a nice career of his own. As a midfielder, Junior Tucker Nathans at the plate against Siena last season. he played well enough to be named to the All-MAAC Second Team in his freshman By Rory Bernier year. Last year, he started every game and Staff Writer became a defensive staple for Head coach Carl Rees and the Stags. With the MAAC chamIt did not take the brothers long to pionship in mind, Tucker figure out what they wanted to do in life. Nathans defends speedy Christian explained that soccer quickly strikers trying to score and bending shots into the Uy Brothers | page 4 corner of the net at Lessing Field. With another winlow tart ut a uick inish ning streak in mind, Nathans fields ground After starting the season 1-4, the men’s soccer team has won three straight games heading into balls at Alumni DiaMAAC play, drawing similiarties to last year’s MAAC championship team. mond and takes swings in the batting cages. He knows the standards are 2009: Started 4-4, Finished ?? high for Division I soccer and baseball. 2008: Started 6-5, Finished 11-8 Nathans is the only
Nathans Shows Versatility on the Diamond and Pitch
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two-sport varsity athlete on campus who manages to secure a starting spot on the baseball team as a second baseman and as a defender for the soccer team. He prepares by getting in the best physical shape possible with the breaks he has in between class and practice. Discipline and time management are two strengths that he has mastered at Alumni Diamond, Lessing Field, Canisius Hall, and the athletic center where he has study hours. Nathans plays left center back on the defensive side for the men’s soccer team. This semester he continues his balance of exercising his body for striking as well as stimulating his mind in the classroom. “When people tell you that you can’t do something you kind of want to prove them wrong,” said Nathans. His favorite memory playing soccer at Fairfield was last year when they beat the undefeated Loyola Greyhounds in the MAAC
Nathans | page 4
Women’s Soccer stuck in slump p. 22