FREE | Take one Week of Jan. 20, 2010 | Vol. 35, Iss. 14
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The Independent Student Newspaper of Fairfield University The Reflection of Fairfield
Four Students in Haiti Okay; Fairfield to Lend Help By Lily Norton Executive Editor
Anne-sophie Janvier, and Lisa Haylon ‘10, were contacted through a variety of means. Professor Gisela Gil-Egui was the first who was able to make contact with any of the students, with LeGros through Facebook. Four Fairfield students who were in Haiti when the “I was able to connect with the other three through 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit Tuesday are safe, according information supplied to me by a friend of theirs who to the University. lives in the United States,” said Dean of Students Tom The students, Francesca LeGros ‘10, Tara Buteau ‘10, Pellegrino. The students are focusing on getting a flight back to the United States from the Santiago airport in the Dominican Republic, according to Pellegrino. There were no service trips or other University-related activities to Haiti at the time of the earthquake, although Haiti is one of the most common destinations for service trips through campus ministry. Contact was made with the students mainly through e-mail, and University representatives have had communication with the students’ families as well. Some alumni of the University reside or work in Haiti, including several Fairfield students and family members Photo Illustration by Peter Caty of the students and staff in Haiti. Fairfield students and University members are doing all they can in order to “We will continue to do all that we help in the Haiti relief efforts. A Facebook group called ‘Fairfield For Haiti’ was can to inquire about the well-being of created last week by students who wanted to band together and brainstorm any other members of our community,” ideas to raise money for the Haitian people. A forum is planned for Wednesday said President Jeffrey von Arx in a Uninight for all Fairfield students and organizations, according to the group. versity message.
“There are of course others in our community (students, faculty and staff ) who were not present but who have family and friends there,” Pellegrino added. “There is still much we do not know,” he said. Students are already responding to the crisis. The Fairfield for Haiti group will be holding a forum on Wednesday, Jan. 20, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to develop ideas for fund-raising. The location is to be announced. John Sullivan ‘13, who is part of the group and has worked in the Hopital Sacre Coeur, a hospital that provides free health care to everyone in Milot, Haiti, hopes that Fairfield will nside page step up to the plate to help Haitians. Rebuilding Haiti the “Now, from what Right Way I’ve heard from my contacts in Haiti is that the hospital is flooded with people. They’ve set up tents outside to assist people and are doing the best they can to help everybody,” he said. “Fairfield needs to help Hopital Sacre Coeur and the rest of Haiti out during this time.” Melissa Quan, Director of Service Learning at Fairfield, will be coordinating efforts with the Jesuit Universities Humanitarian Action Network (JUHAN) to decide how Fairfield can respond to the crisis, short-term and long-term. “Specific to the crises in Haiti, the JUHAN student leadership team will be meeting this afternoon to begin
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Kat DeLuna added to FUSA Concert By Michelle Morrison Online Managing Editor
to Fairfield. One of her backup dancers, Brian Herman, is a Fairfield senior. Tickets, which will cost The mystery is revealed: $30 for students and Kat DeLuna, the $40 for the public, will singer best known go on sale Feb. 1. for her goldStudents can buy certified single one student-price “Whine Up,” will ticket per person, be the third act of per StagCard and an the FUSA spring unlimited number of concert. tickets at the public FUSA received price. final word that According to DeLuna accepted Mann, FUSA has gottheir bid at the end ten a very upbeat reof December, after sponse from students students had gone looking forward to the home for winter concert. break. “Students have “It was kind been really positive of like an early Contributed Photo about all three,” she Christmas present,” FUSA recently announced that Kat Deluna will said. “To get three said Melissa Mann be the third act in this year’s concert. strong acts like that ’10. Mann is the is awesome and I’m excited can be described as a mixture director of concerts for FUSA about that.” of techno, reggae, rock and as well as the entertainment Since her hit single pop, fits well alongside Kingseditor of The Mirror. “Whine up” in 2008, DeLuna ton’s smooth sound. DeLuna will join reggaehas released more singles “I think she’ll be a good fusion singer Sean Kingston including “Unstoppable” tie-in with Sean Kingston at and pop-rock band Eve 6 on featuring Lil’ Wayne and the same time,” said Mann. Feb. 20 in Alumni Hall. “She will help keep the energy the bilingual song “Dance With DeLuna on the bill, Bailalo.” up.” this concert will be Fairfield’s DeLuna has a unique tie first with a female performer. “We are doing something different this year and she helps fit that bill,” said Mann. DeLuna’s music, which
Index Arts & Entertainment • Page 7 Opinion • Page 9 Features • Page 12 Sports • Page 16
Photo Illustration by Peter Caty
Look inside for more on major global news events that took place recently over winter break. See In The Know: World News Briefs on page 2.
Inside This Week New Housing Initiative Plans Announced. See page 3.
Keeping Up With Kendrick
Check out our Web site!
See page 4.
Log onto fairfieldmirror.com to check out more!
News
The Mirror | Week of Jan. 20, 2010
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»Conan O’Brien Likely to Sign $40 Million Deal With NBC | page 7
Rocking Out
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In The News
»Michelle’s Struggle With
»Senior Stags Stepping Up for Men’s Basketball
Parking
|page 16
| page 11 Mike Evanovich
the Stag Sched this weekend on campus... in five easy steps
By Melissa Mann
Attend: Winter Fest at the Levee The Levee is hosting its first Winter Fest this weekend, starting Thursday with a dodgeball tournament at the RecPlex at 7:30 p.m. Friday will feature a toga party at 10 p.m. at the Levee, and Saturday is a Battle of the Bands in the Oak Room at 9 p.m. All the events will feature free food, music and all kinds of entertainment.
Help: Meeting of the Minds for Haiti Relief On Wednesday, Jan. 20, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the Fairfield for Haiti group will be hosting a “Meeting of the Minds” (location TBD) to discuss fund-raising ideas to help with the disaster relief in Haiti.
Celebrate: Martin Luther King Jr. Convocation The MLK Jr. Convocation will be held at 3 p.m. on Thursday at the Quick Center, featuring speaker Most Reverend George Murry, S.J.
Watch: Jersey Shore Watch the season finale of MTV’s “Jersey Shore” on Thursday at 10 p.m., and find out what happens to everyone’s favorite Italians as their summer at Seaside Heights comes to an end. Photos by Peter Caty/The Mirror
Junior Rob Belfiore loves to play guitar, beat-box, sing, and experiment with loop and effects pedals. Until a few weeks ago, he did not know how to put these talents together. That is, until he found the musical artist Dub FX. Dub FX, also known, as Benjamin Stanford is a street performer and a recording artist from Melbourne, Australia. His main claim to fame is his use of loop and effects pedals to combine his voice into rhythms to create hiphop and reggae music using only his voice. He uses a grass roots approach to spread his music independently through word of mouth and social networking sites. Rob is an up-and-coming Dub FX artist and hopes to eventually perform at venues around Fairfield county.
Better Know a Stag By Mikaela Tierney Who: Dan Kochanowicz ‘10 Major: Finance & Information Systems What change would you like to see happen on campus? I would change the school to have more school spirit and more people supporting the athletes. What’s your favorite part of living at the beach? There are no RA’s and more freedom ... and the beach. If you could create a holiday for Fairfield University to observe, what would it be & why? A flashmob rave right before [the start of ] finals would be sick. It’s a good way to destress before the hell starts. What’s your favorite Fairfield tradition? It’s not really a tradition, but the last couple of weeks of second semester when spring starts — they’re always a lot of fun!
Drink: Milkshakes from the Stag Yes, it’s F’real! The Stag now has a F’Real milkshake vending machine, where you can buy a milkshake or frozen smoothie and the machine mixes it for you.
By the Numbers 250,000
Estimated number of people injured in last week’s earthquake, according to the Associated Press.
200,000
Estimated number of people killed in last week’s earthquake, according to the Associated Press.
5,500
Estimated number of Americans believed to have been in Haiti at the time of the earthquake.
4
Fairfield students in Haiti when the earthquake hit.
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The Mirror | Week of Jan. 20, 2010
New Housing Initiative Plans Announced By Keri Harrison News Editor
parking elsewhere. “Students will be relocated to the red lots [behind Jogues Hall] which I recognize as a challenge,” said Director of Residence Life Karen Donoghue. But Donoghue feels that the outcome will be beneficial. “This challenge will be worthwhile,” she said. Senior Chuck Walters, who lives in the apartments, is one student not satisfied with the parking relocation, no matter how beneficial the new halls will be. “I appreciate Fairfield University’s initiative to create new dorms on campus, as this will help fix some
Many students were upset and confused about the changes the University announced as the new Facilities Planning and Implementation Updates at the end of December. A new residential hall, to consist of four, six and eight person apartments for upperclassmen, will be built on the current Village parking lot, located between the Village Halls and the library. When construction breaks this February or March, those who have parking passes for this lot will have to find
of the ongoing forced triple and housing problems that students have,” he said. “However, as a student living in the apartments who owns a car and drives regularly, I am not supportive of Fairfield removing our parking lot. Parking is already a problem at the apartments, as it is sometimes impossible to find a parking space, and it only will get worse with less parking available,” continued Walters. Donoghue said that the Quick Center parking lot will be used for construction vehicles, but that the parking lot will be extended to accommodate the lost spots. Nu-
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The Office of Residential Life provided a floor plan of the new residential hall to be built in the Quad. This plan outlines the first floor of the new building.
merically, the University will not be losing parking spots due to the changes. The plans to create the new apartment building, as well as a new residential hall between Campion and Jogues Halls, are additions to planned renovations to Dolan Hall and St. Ignatius Hall in order to create more housing space for students. According to Donoghue, the construction plans are aimed at decreasing overcrowding as well as creating more independent living facilities for upperclassmen. “By creating these spaces, we are creating a competitive edge to our peer institutions,” she said. The constructions, which are part of Phase One of the University’s plans to create more housing on campus, were originally supposed to be completed by May 2010. However, due to the recent economy, the Board of Trustees decided to push back the completion date, according to Donoghue. Freshman Nora Bajrami, who will have the opportunity to live in the new apartments, said she is satisfied with the changes, despite the fact that the parking lot will be taken away. “I don’t have a car so I am okay with it,” she said. Donoghue said that most of the feedback she has received has been good. “I’ve been receiving positive feedback from student leaders along with challenges,” she said. “In my sphere of influence, this is a positive thing for the University.”
In the Know World News Briefs
By Meghan Schelzi Multimedia Editor The transition between 2009 and 2010 brought with it many notable events throughout the world, in politics and entertainment. Earthquake in Haiti Just before 5 p.m. on Jan. 12, 2010, a devastating earthquake hit just ten miles southwest of Portau-Prince, the capital of Haiti. The United Nations officials have estimated 50,000 fatalities, while other estimates run as high as 200,000. On January 13th, President Obama promised Ban Ki-Moon, the secretary general of the United Nations that Haiti would have the “unwavering support” of the United States. There are many charities and organizations that are pitching in to help. Doctors Without Borders, Red Cross, and Partners in Health are a few of the organizations who are taking donations. Christmas Day Attempted Bombing On Christmas Day, a Nigerian man, Umar Farouk Abdulmutallah, 23, attempted to detonate a bomb as the Northwest plane carrying 290 people made its descent into Detroit.
He tried to trigger an explosion on Flight 253 from Amsterdam using chemicals hidden under his clothing. According to a statement released by President Obama on Dec. 28, the man was in the system, but was not on the “no-fly” list. Passengers and crew restrained him until the aircraft landed. New Jersey Passes Medical Marijuana Bill On Monday, Jan. 11, 2010, the state of New Jersey approved the legalization of marijuana to help patients with chronic illness. Patients diagnosed with severe illnesses including cancer, Lou Gehrig’s disease, muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis now have access to marijuana grown and distributed through the state-monitored dispensaries. Despite last minute reservations, the bill passed in both houses: 48-14 in the General Assembly and 25-13 in the State Senate. Conan versus Jay Leno versus NBC On Sunday Jan. 10, 2010, NBC announced that effective Feb. 12, 2010, “The Jay Leno Show” will no longer air at 10 p.m. The decision has been meet with controversial reactions ever since it hit the public over
a week ago. See Entertainment for more on the hot topic. Loss of 85,000 Jobs in December On Friday Jan. 8, 2010, the Labor Department reported that during the month of December, which most economists figured would be a great job-generator, there was instead a net loss of 85,000 jobs. Although the unemployment rate has stayed at a steady 10 percent, economists fear it will increase in the coming months. Sen. Christopher Dodd Will Not Seek Re-election Sen. Christopher Dodd (RConn.), announced that he will not seek re-election and will retire from his long career in the United States Senate. At a press conference held just after his announcement he said, “I’m very proud of the job I’ve done and the results delivered.” Dodd also told reporters, “None of us is irreplaceable. None of us are indispensable, and those who think otherwise are dangerous.” China found attacking Google On Tuesday, Jan. 12, Google announced someone was breaking into its software, believed to be Chinese. China’s involvement was confirmed.
PROJECTED HOUSING CHANGES A new residential hall will be built between Campion and Jogues Halls. It is yet to be determined whether it will be a hall for freshmen or sophomore students. The hall will be completed in fall 2011. A new residential hall comprising of four, six, and eight person apartments will be added to the Village. Construction on the current Village parking lot will take place in either February or March. This new apartment building will also be ready by fall 2011. Dolan Hall will be renovated and converted to an apartment building by fall 2011. The former Jesuit residence, St. Ignatius Hall, will be converted into student housing and open in fall 2010.
Want to help Haiti? Attend the student forum Wednesday night at 7 p.m. held by Fairfield students. All students and organizations are invited and more information can be viewed in the Facebook group, Fairfield for Haiti. Join in the Bottle or Can drive on Super Bowl Sunday here on campus. Donate money to charities such as the Red Cross.
University Plans to Help Haiti Continued from page 1 organizing and brainstorming specific actions,” she said. “We encourage students and student groups wishing to be involved in spearheading efforts to contact the JUHAN student leadership team to share information and ideas.” “I think that it is important for us to recognize this as a long-term need. When the news subsides, the challenges will still be there and we need to make a long term commitment,” added Quan. The University is planning on a special dinner (through the campus dining services) for Tuesday, Jan. 26th or Thursday, Jan. 28th where they will ask for a donation of $5 for Haiti Relief. The Ignatian and Service for Justice (formerly Just-Us) Residential Colleges are also planning on a “Bottle and Can drive” for the entire University Community for Super Bowl Sunday.
The Mirror | Week of Jan. 20, 2010
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Keeping Up With Kendrick By Paul Kendrick ‘72 Editor’s Note: This is a series of diary entries written by Fairfield alumnus Paul Kendrick ‘72, who is currently spending a week in Haiti. Kendrick is an advocate for sex abuse victims and member of the organization Voice of the Faithful, which formed in response to the Roman Catholic sex abuse cases. He had visited Project Pierre Touissant, which was run by fellow Fairfield alumnus Doug Perlitz ‘92 in 2003. Last year, Perlitz was indicted by a Bridgeport grand jury on ten counts of abusing Haitian children. His trial is scheduled to start in April. Kendrick is now meeting with some of the Haitian students of Project Pierre Toussaint. The following are excerpts from his entries, the full of which can be seen on The Mirror’s web site.
It’s difficult to remain calm when an innocent child has been forced to endure such horrific trauma. The disgusting details of their abuse would cause most people to turn away. As in most child sex abuse cases, the boys were groomed by a cunning, manipulative and charismatic child molester. One of the
Day One in Haiti: January 13, 2010 Cap-Haitien, Haiti – For me, it was a highly emotional day. There I was, sitting in a small office at Justinian Hospital, face to face with two of the many former students who have reported to law enforcement officials that they were sexually abused by Douglas Perlitz, former executive director of Project Pierre Toussaint and Fairfield University alumnus. I had decided before traveling to Haiti that I want the boys who have reported their abuse to know that there are tens of thousands of abuse survivors, along with their supporters, advocates and caring and concerned people in the United States and elsewhere, who support and encourage their efforts to bring these charges before the U.S. judicial system. Further, I want to know from people here in Haiti what they think it would take to resurrect the Project and reopen the school. It broke my heart to listen to the boys tell me their stories.
Mirror File Photo
Fairfield alum Paul Kendrick ‘72 has been spending time in Haiti with students at Project Pierre Toussaint. He has been keeping a chronicle of his time with the students, which can be viewed in full at fairfieldmirror. com boys told me that Doug told him that he was like a father to the boy. These kids are the poorest of the poor. Cyrus (Sibert, a local journalist who first reported the sex abuse allegations) showed me the roof that they sleep on each night behind a church. They have no blankets or pillows. There’s nothing for
them to eat when they awake in the morning. There’s no place for them to take a shower. They are always hungry. Day Two in Haiti (Pre-Earthquake): January 15, 2010 Cap-Haitien, Haiti –I am reporting that more former Project Pierre Toussaint students came to speak with me today. I listened quietly as they told me what Doug Perlitz did to their bodies and souls. In yesterday’s diary, I referred to the two boys I spoke with on Monday as “alleged” victims. I did that to be politically correct, to satisfy Doug’s supporters who believe that people like me are on some kind of a “witch hunt.” But when I tell you the disgusting things that a popular, charismatic and much admired person has inflicted upon vulnerable children who are among the poorest of the poor — kids who have no home to go to — kids who have no money to pay for school — kids who have nothing to eat — kids who have no one to tuck them in at night — kids who have no one to tell them how loved they are — kids who don’t like themselves — nline kids who look away in shame when they talk Check fairfieldmirror.com about their abuse — for Paul Kendrick’s full you will quickly say the diary entries outlining his victims are lying, that time in Haiti. they just want money. You will defend Doug at all costs. I can tell you for sure that the children in Haiti who were sexually molested need our love, compassion and understanding. We need to show them we care.
O
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The Mirror | Week of Jan. 20, 2010
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Stunning Special Effects Make ‘Avatar’ a Must-See By Ana Ziegler Staff Writer Just before Christmas, the new movie “Avatar” by James Cameron was released. With a budget of $300 million and 10 years in the making, a lot of work and money went into the movie, making it highly anticipated. It became an instant hit at the box office when it opened; so far it has made $1.6 billion worldwide, which puts it in second place on the list of the most successful movies of all-times, behind only “Titanic” at $1.84 billion. It won a Golden Globe for “Best Drama” and “Best Director” on Sunday, and is a favorite for this year’s Academy
creations. You can clearly see their facial expressions and features, and it is easy to tell which human actor is behind each avatar because they look so much alike (except for the bigger nose and the blue skin). In 3D it is even more incredible. Forget every 3D movie you have seen so far because it is nothing like that. There are not things constantly being thrown at you that seem to leave the screen. For the most part, the 3D just gives the picture an incredible depth that you don’t get with a regular movie. I know that many people think that the story does not live up to the expectations and that you should see it mostly for the visual effects. I agree that the story elements are not particularly new. It is a typical Hollywood story with some surprising elements,
Awards. “Avatar” is a stunning visual experience and will, without a doubt, receive the Oscar for best visual effects or another which I apsimilar category. preciated, but the way The world that that the story is told is Cameron has worth it. The fantastic created on a world that slowly unfolds far away planet in front of your eyes called Pandora is while you discover it incredible. It looks along with the protagoextremely real and nist absolutely makes up has a lot of interestfor the lack of new plot. ing creatures and “Avatar” is one of plants. Utilizing Contrbiuted Photo the best movies I a new technique, have seen, and the turning the actors into the three hours you spend in avatars, is just remarkthe movie theater will go able. They look incredby very quickly. Even if ibly real and you cannot you can’t see it in 3D, it is tell that they are not real still well worth watching. living beings but virtual
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‘It’s Complicated’ Offers Audiences Feel-Good Fun By Renee Borghesi Staff Writer “It’s Complicated” is a fun, feel-good movie about a push-and-pull dynamic between a woman who should know better, and her persistent but charming pursuer. The story line is simple: a middle-aged couple who has been divorced for 10 years start up an affair with each other. Jane (Meryl Streep) is an owner of a bakery shop and her ex-husband Jake (Alec Baldwin) is married to a much younger woman. The family is reunited in New York to celebrate their youngest son’s graduation. Jane goes to the hotel bar to have a drink, and coincidentally, Jake is there. The pair start talking and have a good time on the dance floor, which leads to them going back to the hotel room together. An affair between Jane and Jake ensues while they try to hide it from their children and Jake’s wife Agnes. Meanwhile, Jane’s relationship with her architect Adam (Steve Martin) is growing, causing yet another complication in Jane’s love life. Although at first it seems the characters are hard to relate to — there are probably few people in the audience who have found themselves in a similar situation — they are just so funny and charming that every age and gender can easily enjoy this movie. These are characters worth rooting for and the story
keeps you entertained every step of the way. The jokes were laugh-out-loud good and even seemingly over-the-top slapstick comedy scenes fit in with the pacing and plot of the film. There were a number of heartfelt moments that did not feel out of place or clichéd. The acting was fantastic; although with a main cast of such quality, nothing less than great acting can be expected. Streep was excellent as a funny but thoughtful woman, struggling with what felt right for her and what seems to be the right thing for her family and friends. Baldwin was quirky and comical playing a man who contrasted Streep’s character by not over-thinking things. A pleasant surprise was Martin as Adam, which was a relatively serious role compared to Jane and Jake’s characters. Martin deviated smoothly from his regular bumbling comedic roles to playing a nice, ordinary man. John Krasinksi was another memorable character as the fiancée of one of Jane and Jake’s daughters; he had a small but equally entertaining role. “It’s Complicated” is simply a great movie guaranteed to put a smile on your by the time you leave the theater.
Conan O’Brien Likely to Sign $40 Million Exit Deal with NBC By Melissa Mann Arts & Entertainment Editor After wreaking havoc on the late night television line-up, NBC might be forced to offer Conan O’Brien a $40 million deal to let him walk away, according to an article in The New York Post. The deal comes after O’Brien refused to switch “The Tonight Show” to the 12:05 time slot, after “The Jay Leno Show” at 11:35. The deal would try to put Leno back into “The Tonight Show” and O’Brien would be off until September, giving him the freedom to sign a contract for the next year instead of fulfilling the rest of his two-year contract. The deal also ensures that if O’Brien takes the money, he cannot badmouth NBC for its actions. The entire $40 million won’t be
going to O’Brien alone, either — about $7.5 million will be paid out to employees of the show, who complained about not getting paid once O’Brien leaves. It’s been a messy situation for NBC the past few weeks with the controversy over the late-night changes. After Leno was moved to the 10 p.m. slot, ratings fell and NBC wanted to push Leno back to 11:35 to get these back, a move that would both O’Brien and Jimmy Fallon. “WTF?!” exclaimed Anthony Nicoletti ‘10 in response to the late-night time changes, saying that the original move of “The Tonight Show” from 11:35 to 10 p.m. didn’t make sense. “It’s important to keep [The Tonight Show] at 11:35, that’s what makes it The Tonight Show,” he said. And what about NBC’s concerns
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over ratings, that prompted the switch in the first place? “Everyone is watching it now, just because of the controversy,” said Nicoletti.
Arts & Entertainment
The Mirror | Week of Jan. 20, 2010
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‘Leap Year’ is a Movie Worth Skipping ments of sharp comedy — thanks to the Irish characters of Goode and the superstitious locals — and the acting of both “Leap Year” is a romantic comedy about a Adams and Goode save the movie. woman who goes to Ireland to meet up with her Anna could be hated since she acts boyfriend, but experiences some roadblocks along like a know-it-all with Declan, but Adams the way. Bad weather, bad luck and a handsome plays her character so sweetly that she but bitter Irish local all stand in the way of getting emits sympathy and becomes a character to her boyfriend right away. worth rooting for. Although Anna is an inAnna (Amy Adams) is a no-nonsense young telligent and successful woman, the movie woman who has been dating Jeremy (Adam Scott) dumbs her down as she travels through for four years. A friend leads Anna to believe he is Ireland. The story puts her through a series proposing and she is all ready to say yes, but her of mishaps, poor choices, all trying to hopes are dashed when Jeremy only offers her a get a laugh from the audience at Anna’s pair of diamond earrings. Immediately after the expense, but it doesn’t work. However, in dinner, Jeremy needs to leave for Dublin for a the end, the film retains the ability to make medical conference. Anna’s father then tells her audiences care whether Anna gets with the about an old Irish tradition where on Leap Day, a right man. woman can ask a man to marry her and he has to Contributed Photo As good as the chemistry is between say yes. Thus, Anna’s journey ensues. “Leap Year” has good acting, but its unoriginal plot falls short. the charismatic Adams and Goode, they are Anna has trouble with her trip from the beginunable to help the story along much. “Leap ning. A storm causes the plane to land in another part of Ireland and she frantically search- Year” ends up being a predictable, formulaic romantic comedy that does not properly es for a ride to Dublin. She finds a pub/inn where the owner, Declan (Matthew Goode), is reflect the acting prowess of two people as talented as Adams and Goode. also a cab driver in his spare time and agrees to take Anna to Dublin. From the beginning, the two characters don’t get along, mainly because of their personality differences. Anna is proud and an optimist whereas Declan is wary of the world around him. They run into transportation troubles and the trip to Dublin takes longer than expected. Along the way, Anna and Declan come to know each other and understand each other better, causing them to question their own choices in life. “Leap Year” is a predictable romantic comedy with few heartfelt scenes. Only its moBy Renee Borghesi Staff Writer
Summer at the ‘Jersey Shore’ Ends on Thursday
‘The Young Victoria’ Reigns at the Theater
By Melissa Mann Arts & Entertainment Editor
By Gabriella Tutino Assistant Entertainment Editor “The Young Victoria” a recently released movie, reminds me of every single period piece ever made: beautiful scenery, gorgeous people, luscious clothing and extravagance galore. To capture the time period right, everything must be at the peak of its beauty — this is how it was done in earlier centuries, with royalty lavishing in all kinds of top-quality fabrics, precious metals, grand palaces and such. Luckily for “The Young Victoria,” all the background extravagance only adds to the movie instead of detracts. What “The Young Victoria” does is show how Queen Victoria longed more for her freedom and love than she did for the crown. She went through with the coronation in part to defy her mother, and in part because it was her duty. The movie follows Victoria (played by Emily Blunt) from before her coronation and during the first few years of her life as queen. Victoria longs for independence and admiration from the people. The film focuses on the romance between Victoria and Prince Albert (Rupert Friend), constantly being brought up by correspondence between the two. It’s a lovely relationship, not too sweet, but endearing enough. Throughout the movie, there is a good balance of politics and love, the two things that dominated Victoria’s life. It is an enjoyable, whimsical movie and I recommend it for anyone who loves period piece movies or British history. I personally think Emily Blunt is fantastic in her role. She brings emotion and grace to the character. Her greatest scenes are when she shows the most emotion, be it on the verge of tears or angrily yelling at someone. Young women can relate to Queen Victoria because Blunt portrays her passion and loneliness very well. I have never seen Rupert Friend on the screen
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“The Young Victoria” is a time-period movie that is both entertaining and historically accurate.
before, but I think he’s got potential. He has a cute face and a strong presence. I sincerely hope he isn’t typecast as 19th century love interests. Paul Bettany, from “A Knight’s Tale” and “Wimbledon, takes on a more serious role as Lord Melbourne, Queen Victoria’s advisor. He is a self-assured and witty character who seems almost positive of his influence over the young queen. His relationship with her is questionable at first, but the audience sees that he is merely just a friend, sometimes using Victoria for his own gain. Overall, the movie is pleasant. A feast for the eyes with impressive writing and superb acting, “The Young Victoria” serves as a glimpse into the early life of a strong-willed and passionate royal.
MTV’s “Jersey Shore” is finally coming to an end on Thursday, and if we can take any of the previous episodes as examples, the season finale is sure to be filled with plenty of fights, fistpumping, and “The Situation” trying to pick up guidettes. The show has attracted a wide audience, but MTV’s claim that “there is more to these tan and buff individuals than hair gel” (as described on MTV’s Web site) is a ridiculous notion. But at least it’s completely over-the-top and hilarious to watch. There’s also been no shortage of controversy since the show debuted; most of the shows focused on the violence that is featured and its portrayal of Italian-Americans. Nicole “Snooki” Pilozzi was punched in the face at a bar in one episode, but after threats from various sponsors, MTV decided not to show the actual punch ... and followed the episode with a message about domestic violence. Regardless, there’s something about the show that keeps everyone watching. Maybe it’s the fascination with how calculated their days are (GTL — gym, tanning, laundry) or by how every night at the bar starts with inappropriate dancing and fist-pumping but is guaranteed to end with a hook-up or a fight (and in one case, an arrest). Whatever your reason for watching, you don’t want to miss the season finale. And even if you don’t watch “Jersey Shore” regularly, it makes a fabulously entertaining drinking game — what better way to start your Thursday night?
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The cast of “Jersey Shore’: Seven self-proclaimed guidos and guidettes spending the summer at Seaside Heights, New Jersey.
The Mirror | Week of Jan. 20, 2010
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Focusing on Haiti During the first week back to classes, most of us would like to focus on ourselves. But as we try to organize our own lives, we cannot forget about others in need, particularly those affected by the massive earthquake that hit Haiti a week ago. Yes, it was a week ago, but that certainly does not mean that our window of opportunity to help is over. Haiti is considered the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere; four out of five people live in poverty. While getting immediate relief to the country was important, the future of Haiti is a very serious concern. The first few days were crucial for search and rescue efforts, but Haiti will feel the effects of this natural disaster for much longer. Because of the magnitude of the earthquake, combined with poorly constructed buildings and homes, almost all architecture was destroyed, including governmental buildings, churches, and the Presidential palace. Now, the country must deal with the homeless, the injured, and the orphaned. Providing the most simple services to people will be difficult. In desperation, people will turn towards violence and theft. Haitian News predicts that it will take more than five years to "get back on its feet" in terms of reconstruction. But that is wishful thinking even with help from the U.S. — consider that some areas of Louisiana are still have not recovered from Hurricane Katrina, nearly five years later. Although the U.S. response to the crisis could have performed faster to get aid to the Haitians, we should be proud of our efforts so far. American donors raised more than $150 million in four days, a re-
cord for post-disaster fundraising, according to The Wall Street Journal. Technology allowed anyone to donate quickly and easily, by just texting. To date, The American Red Cross has raised more than $24 million for the people of Haiti from text messages alone. Argue all you want, professors; sometimes texting and social networking can be used to actually help people. But although we have been sending money, the distribution of food and supplies in Haiti has been difficult. Communicating where supplies are can be an obstacle, roads and seaports are destroyed, and many are not healthy enough to travel distances. The U.S. military has resigned to airdropping supplies, which relief workers say is among the worst ways to deliver help. However, Haitians are resilient. They are people of tremendous faith and courage. With help, their country can pull through. Now, we can only help through donations, but in the future, we will be able to go and help Haitians firsthand. And hopefully, this help will not only aid with the disaster of the earthquake, but might provide some basic help that Haiti has been severely lacking. The goal should not just get the country restored to its conditions before the earthquake — now that attention is being paid to the country, the international community should realize that Haiti should be improved as much as possible. Forget getting it back on its feet — we should be building Haiti new, strong legs to stand on. We can't let the lack of novelty affect our willingness to help people who are truly in need. Innovation and persistence in humanitarian efforts will be crucial.
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Notable and Quotable "We have loved that place for a long time and we think that the people have gotten a raw deal time and time again," he said. "And they keep coming back, and they will come back again if people will see them as their fellow human beings.... They are hurting, but they are good people, and they need our help." -Bill Clinton on CNN in reference to the people of Haiti
In reference to the return to campus following the long winter break. Have an opinion? Send it to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com.
Facebook killing relationships By Dan Leitao Staff Writer
"I can’t believe you accepted her friend request! She is your ex-girlfriend. You can’t just accept her friend request. She wrote on your wall, she probably even messaged you, I can’t believe the nerve."’ "Honey, its really not that big of a deal - it is just Facebook." Quarrels started by Facebook are becoming more commonplace in today’s society. Facebook has become so common it has even made its way into couple's divorce petitions. A recent report stated that 20 percent of petitions for divorce at a U.K. law firm use Facebook as evidence. This statistic seems logical when you understand Facebook is a free space in which individuals are able to share information, often not know who is looking. High school and college students are already tired of lectures of what they should and should not be putting on Facebook. Now it seems that it might be adults who need to receive that same lecture. Facebook has even begun to define how high school and college students define their relationships. If it is not on Facebook, it is not official. Gone are the days of letter man jackets and senior rings; instead, a simple line of text accessible on our computers and mobile phones. This new staple for determining one's relationship status has become a quintessential part of a relation-
ship. When to put the relationship on Facebook and what type of relationship, are now decisions a couple must make. At the same time, Facebook has made it more difficult to determine if someone is single or not. Girls state that they are in a relationship with another girl, guys and girls are engaged or married when they are not even dating, and what is an 'open relationship?' Users have taken the simple declaration of availibility and made it difficult to understand relationships on Facebook. While this is often easy to recognize and a simple funny inside joke, this poses a more dificult problem as we grow older. As people begin to come out or get legitimately engaged or married, how can one tell when they are serious, especially when we are not as close with our Facebook friends as real friends? Facebook can also lead to couples breaking up, just as the UK is proving. Whether it is marriage, engagements, or high school flings; Facebook poses the ability to break up a couple within any one thing posted, be it intentional or not. It seems that all of these little nuances that Facebook poses have become a routine part of high school and college student usage on Facebook. However, as Facebook has opened its doors, inexperienced users are misinterpreting and misusing many of the Facebook functions we have already mastered. These nuances are something that new users will have to adjust to quickly or face more incidents such as what the U.K. is facing.
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Opinion
Michelle's Struggle With Parking
The Mirror | Week of Jan. 20, 2010
'Chillaxin' and Enjoying a 'Bromance': Your words in 2009
By Michelle Morrison Online Managing Editor
Attention Village residents: Most of you will be parking next to Jogues this semester. Why? The University’s Department of Facilities Management will be tearing down your major parking lot between Kostka and the library starting in February or March, according to Karen Donoghue. What does this mean for upperclassmen, who make up a majority of the Village residents? It means a lot of new problems, particularly for seniors, who should be spending their final semester looking for jobs, taking electives and enjoying their last chance to be college students. I am absolutely in favor of the University expanding its residence halls and improving its image for prospective students. What makes me mad is the lack of respect that this decision shows to the students who are already here, especially the juniors and seniors who have worked hard to earn the privileges of nice housing and parking. Having to park far away from where you live is more than just an inconvenience. What happens to the seniors who are counting on this semester’s internships to give them a boost in this very tough job
By Ana Ziegler Staff Writer Photo illustration by Peter Caty/The Mirror
market? It takes 15-20 minutes to walk from the apartments to Jogues, and maybe even longer if you’re wearing heels. That may not seem like much, but it makes a big difference at 6 a.m. when you’re trying to get the train to New York City on time, especially after the cancellation of the morning train shuttle. It is difficult enough for seniors to fit the long hours of an internship into a busy schedule of classes, jobs and extracurriculars. Why would the university want to make it even harder for us? Forcing Village residents to park in Jogues is going to mean lethal competition for the spots in the small parking lot behind the apartments. Even if there are not any spots available, there are definitely going to be students who try to park in the fire lane or on the grass. When faced with the choice of illegally parking or making three trips back and forth to Jogues to carry your groceries into your room, what would you do? Also, forcing Village residents to park across campus from where they live could be a safety hazard. Picture this: it’s
2 a.m. on a Saturday, and your roommate calls you asking for a ride home from the beach. Do you feel comfortable walking all the way across campus by yourself, just to get your car? What, you didn’t know this was going to happen? That may be because the University informed you through an email sent on Dec. 15 — right in the middle of finals week, when students are busy studying for tests and do not have time to read their emails. Maybe you did see the email. But did you make it three-quarters of the way through the 1,698 word message? That’s where Mark Reed first mentioned the notification about parking. I don’t know about you, but that sounds to me like they were trying to hide it from us, the students, who are most impacted by their decision. Is it too much to ask that our administration be open with us, and take into consideration our valid concerns for our own living situation and career plans? It shouldn’t be.
The Unofficial Announcement By Veronica Florentino Opinion Editor
Page 11
updates collectively received three 'likes' and two comments. This does not seem like an announcement to me at all. The lack of grammar and
Granted, Thibodeau is friends with 1,339 people on Facebook, and the number of Fairfield students within that is difficult to deThe third concert act was announced termine. The means that as Facebook friends, over break. 1,000 students could have potentially Oh, you didn't hear? That's because heard the news through his Facebook. it was announced on Facebook. Maybe I'm in the minority, but I didn't Upon our return, students disreally read the NewsFeed over break. I cussed what they had heard about the read the first three updates on the page third performer because of what they once a week. I came back and was told had read on different FUSA member's the news casually by someone who Facebook pages. There were no e-mails admitted to have spent a lot of time on and there were no letters. There was Facebook over the break. no formal announcement other than a Last I checked, there are over 3,000 Facebook status, allowing the identity undergraduates at Fairfield and FUSA of the performer to merely leak out. Adis supposed to represent all of them. So ditionally, how much credibility is there making an "announcement" on one perin a Facebook status? son's Facebook and expecting the word I commend FUSA for picking to spread is not a proper representation another performer for what should be of the leadership and professionalism of a great concert. I have no complaints the position at hand. about Kat DeLuna, and I think 'Whine FUSA should be proud to anUp' is a great song. I'm pretty excited nounce the third performer to the entire about the concert. student body. Not announcing it is a I do believe that their execution of Contributed photo cowardly move, especially after Sean the news was entirely in poor taste. Kat DeLuna is excited to perform — give her the introKingston and Eve 6 were given a formal On Saturday evening between 7 duction she deserves. announcement. It almost seems as if and 8 p.m., Spencer Thibodeau '10, they don't want people to know who made two status updates. One read, "Spenproper spelling actually makes it seem more completes the performance we're expecting cer Thibodeau is with out further hesitalike a joke than something of serious imless than a month from today. tion FUSA Concerts is proud to announce portance. After this "announcement" via I regret that FUSA receives so much gripe that for the first time in memorable history Facebook, some students didn't hear about for their annual concert selection. I have no a female vocalist will be performing....the the news until three days later. Other students doubt of the work, thought, and considerthird act is................................KAT DELUprobably had no clue until they picked up The ation FUSA puts into selecting the concert. NA.....................................................!!!!!!!!!!" The Mirror and read the news in this very issue. However, I would just hope that the same other read, "Spencer Thibodeau joining both The students who did hear heard because they consideration is put into making a proud anSean Kingston and Eve 6 FUSA Concerts is were following their NewsFeed and happened nouncement to all students through an official proud to announce that...............KAT DELUNA to be Facebook friends with someone who method of communication, as opposed to letwill be performing as the third act!!!!!!" The two posted it. ting it leak out via a social networking website.
Has anybody ever heard of a ‘bromance?' Ever used an ‘app,’ ‘friended’ somebody on Facebook or send a ‘tweet’? I am sure everyone has done at least one of these things or heard somebody use one of those words. They are all words that have become very common in our everyday language, but sometimes they might annoy us because people just overuse them or because people use words that are just absolutely useless. That’s why Time came up with a list of words that should be banned from 2010. I will be talking about some of those words dealing with social networking this week. The rest of the words will appear in next week's issue. Social networks have become almost essential in our lives and take up a lot of our time. If we are all honest, we spend several hours a day on Facebook (I believe MySpace is outdated), checking our e-mails or updating our Twitter accounts. So it is not very surprising that some of the words associated with those networks get adapted into our everyday vocabulary. Two of those words made it on the list: ‘tweet’ and ‘friend’, when used as a verb as in friending or unfriending somebody on Facebook. I agree that those words are overused, but what are you going to use instead? Tweet is already a made up word. That is very hard to replace, but if anybody has any suggestions, I will take them. Instead of friend somebody you could actually befriend somebody, but why waste that extra syllabus? Facebook and Twitter are so popular that my guess is that those words are not leaving anytime soon. Another thing that is really popular these days are abbreviations and blends. Those are represented on the list by ‘app’, ‘sexting’ and ‘chillaxin’’. I don’t have a problem with "app". It is so convenient not to use whole words that I don’t think this trend is going to be over soon. Blends can be convenient and funny as well, but I think ‘sexting’ is just a weird word and also useless. ‘Chillaxin’’ is just as equally useless if not more so. It is just absolutely redundant because it consists of the words chillin’ and relaxing which in essence mean the same thing. That makes it ridiculous. The last word for today is bromance. Now why would you not like that word? It sounds great, makes you smile every time you hear it and it is a very accurate description of a close friendship between guys. It has also made it acceptable for guys to have that kind of close friendship and to hug, which was absolutely different several years back. For girls, it was always OK to be close and to hug but when guys did this everybody was looking at them weirdly and thinking, “What are they doing there?” So I think that this word is actually a good addition to our vocabulary. Some words are ridiculous, some we might like, some we find essential but in reality there is nothing we can really do about them anyways instead of wait until they disappear again by themselves, just as fast as they have appeared.
The Mirror | Week of Jan. 20, 2010
Online Give your thoughts on the Haiti tragedy and learn more at www.fairfieldmirror.com.
Rebuilding Haiti the Right Way By Chris Simmons Managing Editor Haiti has endured its share of struggles and problems even before feeling the disastrous effects of the earthquake that struck just outside of Port-au-Prince. Rony Delva, the project coordinator for Upward Bound at Fairfield, has experienced some of those struggles firsthand and has a call to assist in Haiti future. Delva was born in the city of Gonaives, in northern Delva Haiti. The city was once known mainly for being Haiti’s “City of Independence” as it was the site where JeanJacques Dessalines declared Haiti’s independence from France in 1804. But in 2004 in a span of four years, Hurricane Jeanne and Hanna wreaked the city. Major flooding and mudslides killed and displaced thousands. “Haiti has seen its share of disasters,” said Delva. “My hometown is practically destroyed. I’m personally saddened, but in other ways, I feel lucky that I’m here.” Delva’s parents moved to the United States when he was four years old, but he remained in Haiti to finish school. He joined his mother in 1982, but Delva still has family in Haiti. “I found out yesterday, I have a brother and cousins in Haiti and they are all fine,” said Delva. “My cousin was missing after the earthquake. He was at work and couldn’t get home. It’s a very tragic sad situation. It wasn’t just the earthquake, but also poorly built buildings.” Delva warned that similar situations could happen in the future if Haiti doesn’t rebuild properly. “I’m extremely saddened by the loss of so many lives,” said Delva. “But, I’m starting to think ahead, the same situation could happen again. How do we rebuild after the media is gone? We need zoning laws where you can’t just build a house anywhere. We need to build the infrastructure. Houses in Haiti are like sandcastles; they fall and crumble.” Delva pointed to three main problems in Haiti: corruption, incompetence, and waste. During Delva’s time in Haiti, the country was ruled by Francois Duvalier until 1971 and then his son Jean-Claude Duvalier until 1986. “Since Baby Doc (Jean-Claude) left in 1986, for the last 20 years, things have gotten worse,” said Delva. “Things were calmer and more peaceful. The poverty was there, but it wasn’t talked about. So many presidents
fairfieldmirror.com
Features | 12 Editor Eric Lessard » features@fairfieldmirror.com
Rony Delva, the project coordinator for Upward Bound at Fairfield and a Haiti native, has seen the many troubles of his homeland. Now he says it is time to fix the problems for good.
have been elected, overthrown or didn’t do anything. That needs to be addressed. Businesses don’t invest in Haiti. People who own businesses in Haiti send their money overseas to foreign banks. People like to blame Haiti, but it’s not Haiti. Haiti is just a country, it’s people.” Delva acknowledged that charities and aid are appreciated, but he would like to see more investments made in Haiti. “It’s only three hours away, workforce ready and Haitians are very nice, hardworking people,” said Delva. “If Haitian Americans can work two jobs here, own their own homes, why can’t we do it in Haiti? Poverty is ingrained in the environment and how we see things.” Carlos Barria/Reuturs Haiti has a great potenTwo Haitians look over the destruction in the city of Port-au-Prince after a deadly earthquake struck last week. Fairfield staff member Rony Delva, a Haiti native, says the country needs stricter zoning laws to prevent further tragedies. tial for growth according to Delva with half of its inhabitants being under the age of 25, a percentage are very proud, but it seems we don’t take Haiti, but that Haiti needs more investment supported by the UN. He was also pleased that pride far enough. We need to ask what in the country. with the response of governments from can I do to make a difference? Demand more “I would love to see Fairfield students around the world after the earthquake, not for our government and ourselves. We need to find a project and have an internship only the United States, but also countries to use that pride. That would be my chalin Haiti,” said Delva. “Have an internship such as China, Israel, the Netherlands and lenge: use that pride.” where you go learn and give something Brazil, all of which sent money and people. In order to properly rebuild Haiti, the back. I would also like to see opportunity for “I just hope that with all this money, infrastructure will need an overhaul along Haitians to come here and learn and then go some of it stays in Haiti,” said Delva. “Over with investments in Haiti. Delva cited the back to Haiti. We cannot see it as a charity half of Haiti’s workforce is under the age of proverb, “Give a man a fish; you have fed him case. People do charities for tax-purposes, 25, so they have a workforce ready. Haitians for today. Teach a man to fish; and you have but with investments, you want a return on send hundreds of millions of dollars back, fed him for a lifetime,” as a basis for improvyour money.” but for every one U.S. dollar, 95 cents goes ing Haiti. He was pleased with the money back. Only five cents stays in Haiti.” being raised and the charities already in Delva envisions a rebuilt country with infrastructure that will hold up over time along with Haitians keeping businesses and money in their own country. “We are very proud,” said Delva. “We were the first independent black country. We were one of two independent counties in the Western Hemisphere. The United States Photo Illustration by Joseph Cefoli in 1776, then The earthquake in Haiti leveled many of the buildings in the capital city of Port-au-Prince, including the there was Haiti Presidential Palace and rows of houses and buildings behind it as seen from Google satellite images. in 1804. Haitians
Perlitz: New Documents To Be Produced By Chris Simmons Managing Editor
Fairfield University and Haiti have been linked in the news for the past few months, as alumnus Doug Perlitz ’92 was indicted on ten counts involving sexual abuse of young Haitian boys. Perlitz founded Project Pierre Toussaint, a home and school in Cap-Haitien. Over winter break, Perlitz’s attorneys filed a motion to extend the motion dates. Originally, the defendant’s motions were due on Jan. 11, the government’s response was due on Jan 26, and the defense reply by Feb. 8. The motion argued that progress had been hampered on account of attorney illness and
telephone difficulties at the Wyatt facility where Perlitz is being held. The government indicated that they would »Alum Blogs from Haiti | page 4 produce another large discovery soon (which would be in addition to approximately 8,000 pages of documents already produced). The motion also said, “There remains significant question about whether the case will be ready for trial by the current May 2010 trial date, but the parties are moving forward diligently with the pre-trial process.” Jury selection is currently slated for April 7 while the trial is scheduled to start May 3. For continuing coverage of the Perlitz proceedings as details unfold, visit www. fairfieldmirror.com.
The Mirror | Week of Jan. 20, 2010
Online
Coffee Break | 13
Check online every week for answers to our games.
Editor Tom Cleary » mirrorcoffeebreak@gmail.com
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Mirror Sports 3x5 Debut in Coffee Break Edition
Tom Cleary Editor-in-Chief
New Year’s Resolutions?
Person you’d like to play Twister with?
I’m secretly a fan of ...
When I was 10, I had a crush on ...
Pants on the ground?
The Mirror softball team will win a game. Oh, check our Twitter. We gots one now.
Don’t believe a word these two say below me. They are just embarassed about what happened between them and a poor jar of peanut butter.
NASCAR. I just love hearing those engines roar, really gets me excited. Right Simmons?
Kelly Kapowski from Saved by the Bell. The Pink Power Ranger has nothing on her.
Yes. I’m General Tom Cleary.
I’d like to be honest, but Simmons stole my thunder. And where the hell is my jar of peanut butter?
Fortune cookie sayings. “Somewhere, deep inside, we all can fly...”
1) Miss Vaccarro, my fifth grade teacher, 2) Scully from The X-Files, and 3) the shortstop.... numba two... Derek Jeter. [For more on bromances, see page 11!]
Get you to take your name off your phone. You’ve got Keith Connors to do this for me. Just leave General Manager it as a number. Huge... Quickly.
Why mess with perfection? Chris Simmons Managing Editor
Follow us at mirror3x5 now on Twitter! If we get to 1, 500, then Stephen Colbert will quarterback our Arena Flag Football Intramural Team!
Tom Cleary. He’s surprisingly agile. Although I think Eric Lessard already might have. I hear there was peanut butter involved.
Lighthouses. Not sure why. Maybe I just feel the need to compensate.
Kimberly, the pink Power Ranger. Great with the Power Bow and an Olympic gymnast. Can’t go wrong with that combination.
Hat turned sideways.
Call yourself a cool cat.
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The Mirror | Week of Jan. 20, 2010
Sports
Page 15
Men’s Basketball He said it...
“I told him that about two or three days ago, about how much I’ve seen him work in becoming the player we knew we recruited. -Fairfield head coach Ed Cooley on the recent play and maturation of senior forward Mike Evanovich, who totaled 11 points, a pair of rebounds, and several impressive defensive plays in the team’s recent win against Canisius.
What to WAtch for
Iona
SUNDAY, JAN. 24TH 3:30PM Arguably the biggest surprise of this year’s season has been the changing of the guard at the top, with the Stags and the Gaels vying for the second place security behind perrenial powerhouse Siena.
MAAC standings Team
Siena Fairfield Iona Saint Peter’s Niagara Canisius Rider Loyola Manhattan Marist
Overall Conf.
15-4 8-0 13-5 6-2 13-6 5-3 10-8 5-3 11-9 4-4 9-10 4-4 10-10 3-5 9-9 2-6 7-11 2-6 1-17 1-7
The Road to Albany Begins Thurs. By Keith Connors General Manager There comes a time at the end of every press conference that head coach Ed Cooley senses the end is near. His cadence changes, the theme shifts, and the words get loud, proud and unapologetic. This week, Cooley dared to speak of the not-too-distant future, when, regardCooley less of how well the Stags play this season and how much they accomplish between now and March 5, everything comes down to thos three days in Albany. “To be honest with you, sometimes I like being on the road,” Cooley quipped, unfazed by a question asking whether the Stags were prepared for the team’s upcoming stretch of away games that spans six of eight games, 29 days, and a trip to – you guessed it – Albany. “We’re in a hotel. Our guys are not distracted by social activities that they can be on campus with tickets, and girlfriends around, and family members that can be disruptive.” While Cooley may like being on the road, he has not had much success in his three seasons at Fairfield, mainly due to a tough schedules and bad breaks. But the Stags away record has been steadily improving (see box on right). This year they are 3-4, with seven games left to play and Cooley hopes the trend continues his way. “We’ve been decent on the road,” Cooley continued. “I love the challenge of it. Because
you have to win the MAAC Championship on the road. It is going to be won on the road. Why not get used to it now? I’m a big picture guy. “Win at home, do your best on the road, but ultimately that championship is won on the road,” he added. He’s half right. For Fairfield to win the Metro Atlantic Athletic Championship, the Stags will have to thrive on the road. Specifically, the road lead to the Times-Union Center in Albany, home of two-time defending champion and midmajor darling Siena. As if that’s not daunting enough, tournament life has not been kind to Fairfield in Cooley’s tenure; last season’s opening round victory over Manhattan stands as the team’s first postseason victory in his four-year tenure. The other half of the equation appears to be multiple-choice, since the longer this season of parity continues, and the longer that Siena continues its conference schedule dominance (eight consecutive wins and counting), it becomes more and more apparent that, ultimately, one of two teams will win the MAAC this season: Siena or someone else, an assessment that appears even more like a reality after the Saints handled Fairfield, 81-73, at the Arena at Harbor Yard this past weekend. “Was this a statement game? Absolutely not,” Cooley answered after Saturday’s loss. “All of the pressure was on Siena. Our statement game comes at the end of the season on a Monday in March in their place.” Winning at “their” place, though has been a bit of an issue for Fairfield this season. Four of the team’s five losses this season were on the road, including a conference loss to
Niagara on Jan. 4. And while the Fairfield brand of basketball – “our physicality on the road and because we rebound well,” Cooley said – lends itself to success in any venue, the Stags could certainly use the next month to prove that Fairfield warrants consideration as Siena’s greatest threat come tournament time. That statement stretch begins this Thursday against Marist, where Fairfield lost a season ago in the midst of the team’s hellacious stretch of Stags on the Road injuries. It continues Under Cooley: this Sunday in New 2006-07: 5-10 Rochelle 2007-08: 6-8 against 2008-09: 7-10 Iona, where the Stags have fallen for two consecutives seasons. Among the other stops on the tour include Lawrenceville, N.J. (the Stags were routed by Rider, 87-59, in 2008 and also lost a season a season ago) and Riverdale, where Manhattan upset the Stags and then Jon Han upended their season. And, of course, there’s a visit to Albany, a prequel to the biggest weekend of the season. At some point, whether it is on Feb. 8 against Siena or a month later in the tournament, Cooley’s postgame prophecy will come true. Fairfield will face a watershed moment in its season: eye-to-eye with the Saints on the road, with a lot more on the line than there was in mid-January. Still, perhaps the statement they make on that day begins much, much earlier. Maybe that crossroads comes when the team hits the road this Thursday.
Women’s Basketball He said it...
"It’s a long season and there’s a lot of basketball left."
Stags hit mid-season slump Injuries and losses hamper women’s basketball By Chris Simmons Managing Editor
Fairfield head coach Joe Frager after his team dropped its fourth straight conference game.
What to WAtch for
Manhattan Jaspers
SUNDAY, JAN. 24TH 1:00PM Fairfield hosts the Jaspers Sunday, Jan. 24 at 1 p.m. at Alumni Hall. The game is less than a week after the Stags dropped a 69-53 decision to Manhattan.
MAAC standings Team
Overall Conf.
Marist 14-4 6-0 Iona 9-8 5-1 Loyola 9-8 4-2 Canisius 8-9 3-3 Manhattan 8-9 3-3 Siena 5-10 3-3 Fairfield 8-9 2-4 Saint Peter’s 6-11 2-4 Niagara 5-11 2-4 Rider 2-15 0-6
After a quick start to conference play, the women’s basketball team has seen injuries and losses mounting following a recent slide. A fourth straight loss at Manhattan on Monday afternoon dropped the Stags to 8-9 overall and 2-4 in the MAAC. Senior forward Tara Flaherty returned to the lineup against Manhattan after missing the previous four weeks of the season with an ankle injury. Her return boosts a squad that had been playing with five starters and only one sub for the majority of the late December and early January games. Sophomore guard Sarah Paulus tore her ACL early in the season and senior guard Lauren Tucker has been recently sidelined with back problems. “Having Tara back gives us a little emotional lift,” said head coach Joe Frager in a radio interview with WVOF’s John Cummings following the game. “Hopefully we’ll be able to get some more out of her in the game against Rider.” Flaherty scored six points to go with two assists and a steal in 16 minutes. Fellow senior Stephanie Geehan lead the team in scoring with 17 points while securing 15 rebounds for her 10th doubledouble of the season. But after a taking a lead early in the second half, Fairfield faded down the stretch and Manhattan ended the game on a 19-6 run. The Stags needed a lift after a disappointing loss to Niagara on Saturday
afternoon. “Tough loss. I thought Niagara played us tough,” Frager said. “I’m proud of the way we battled back. We showed some resolve. They did a great job on the defensive end of the floor and when your offense doesn’t score, that puts a lot more pressure on your defense. This loss hurts.” Fairfield narrowly lost 52-49 after a controversial no call as the Stags ran their final offensive possession. “I was surprised that the whistle didn’t blow. Shocked would be the best way to put it,” said Frager. “But that one play didn’t impact the game.” Sophomore guard Desiree Pina had 22 of Fairfield’s Peter Caty/The Mirror 49 points in the game and Freshman Brittany MacFarlane scored a career-high 12 sophomore forward Taryn points in a 69-53 loss against Manhattan. Johnson added 11. But despite the recent mid-season “(Pina) was gutsy,” Frager said. “She’s slump, Frager’s goal has always been to got a tremendous amount of heart. She have his teams playing their best basketwanted the ball in the second half and ball at the end of the season. found a way to find the basket.” “It’s a long season and there’s a lot of Both Pina and Johnson came up with basketball left,” Frager told WVOF after the some big plays throughout the game, but Manhattan loss. “Last time I checked, this fell just a little short. is mid-major basketball and in mid-major “Team-wise were doing well,” said basketball only one team makes the tourPina. “At the start of the game we were nament, and that’s the team that wins the fine, but we went through a tough stretch. three games.” Me and Taryn are both really competitive.”
Sports | 16
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Ana Ziegler/The Mirror Seniors Mike Evanovich (middle) and Anthony Johnson (32) have emerged as leaders for the Stags as they head down the final stretch of their careers at Fairfield. The Stags are 13-5 and in second place in the MAAC with eight games to play.
Men’s Basketball Coming Together Under Senior Leaders By Tom Cleary Editor-In-Chief
Fairfield head men’s basketball coach Ed Cooley has made one point pretty clear in his three and a half years at the helm of the Stags: Seniors will step up as the finish line grows closer. In 2006-07 it was Michael Van Schaick, who emerged as a top scorer after three years of average play. In 2007-08 Mamadou Diakhate emerged as a fiery, emotional leader. And just last season Herbie Allen filled the void left behind by fellow senior Jon Han, nearly leading a wounded Stags squad to a strong finish. This season two forwards who have both had their ups and downs in their Stags careers, Anthony Johnson and Mike Evanovich, are stepping up when it matters. The Stags are off to their best start under Cooley at 13-5 and sit in second place in the MAAC with a 6-2 record, despite a 81-73 loss to first place Siena on Saturday. The Stags rebounded to defend their home court against Canisius, defeating the Golden Griffs 76-74 on Monday. While Junior Yorel Hawkins (team-high 15.7 points per game) and the MAAC’s top freshman, Derek Needham (15.6 points per game), have been key to Fairfield’s success, none of it would be possible without the solid play of the Stags senior duo. Johnson, averaging 13.7 points per game, scored 27 points in a victory over Manhattan on Jan. 10 when his teammates needed a lift. And then Evanovich took his turn, shooting 6-for-10 in his last two games and averaging 11 points while playing tight defense and providing leadership. “Every day is a little closer to the end,” said Evanovich, who is averaging 6.4 points per game and has emerged as one of the MAAC’s top sixth-men. “I’m starting to realize it more and more. I’m starting to work harder in practice. This is the most I’ve done in my career, the hardest I’ve worked, and I’m glad it is starting to show. I’m glad it is turning around. I’m just
trying to help this team get some wins.” In his first two seasons at Fairfield Evanovich, who transferred in from Iowa State in Cooley’s first season, was known as a pure-shooter. But this season his ability to defend, rebound and lead his teammates on the court has become much more apparent as a larger role has been cast upon him. Cooley figuratively handed Evanovich the game ball in the post-game press conference following the Stags win over Canisius, crediting his three-point shot that put the Stags up for good in the second half as the key to the victory. “Michael’s senior leadership. We’ve seen it, we’ve talked about it,” Cooley said. “From his ability to communicate on the floor and recognize a situation to making what I thought was the shot of a game – right by our bench – that put us up three. I thought Mike made that shot before he took it.” Evanovich’s improved play has not only been noticed by Cooley, but also by his teammates. Hawkins entered the press conference along with Evanovich and jokingly chanted, “MVP, MVP,” about Evanovich’s performance against Canisius. “Mike played huge today. He hit big shots. I don’t even think it was his offense that got him MVP. On defense he was telling us where to go and talking,” Hawkins said. Cooley was quick to jump in, adding more about the impact of Evanovich’s defense. “Mike has taken a lot of criticism, and I applaud his efforts. Mike does have pride defensively. What he has done in practice in the last three or four weeks has not gone unnoticed by the coaches,” Cooley said. “It’s just a really proud moment for me for Michael to see that development. “I told him that about two or three days ago, about how much I’ve seen him work in becoming the player we knew we recruited,” Cooley added. “We just had to get the right chemistry around him.” With Johnson, Hawkins and Needham feeding off of Evanovich’s energy and guidance, Cooley may have finally found the perfect mixture, especially in late-game situations, where Evanovich has showed particularly vocal leadership of late.
The Stags will need both of their seniors to continue to rise to the occasion as they close out the second half of the season with seven of their eleven games on the road. That span begins on Thursday night as Fairfield travels to take on Marist in Poughkeepsie and then goes up the road to Iona in New Rochelle on Sunday afternoon. Iona currently sits in third place in the MAAC, just one game behind Fairfield.
Peter Caty/The Mirror Senior forward Mike Evanovich has stepped up his performance as he tries to finish his career in style.
also in SPORTS: Men’s Basketball Prepares For Tough Road Trip, Women’s Basketball Deals With Injuries on p. 15