The
FREE | Take one Week of Mar. 31, 2010 | Vol. 35, Iss. 22
Mirror
fairfieldmirror.com
Commencement Speaker Announced Staff Report It’s official. Katherine Lapp ‘78 and Dr. James Abbruzzese ‘74 will be visiting their alma mater. They are the speakers for this year’s 60th commencement, according to a University press release. Lapp will speak at the undergraduate students ceremony on the morning of May 23 and Abbruzzese will speak at the graduate students ceremony,
which will take place that afternoon. Lapp is currently the executive vice president and chief administrative office for Harvard University. She is also a former employee of New York City’s former mayor Rudy Giuliani, who was in office during Sept. 11, 2001, as well as the former executive director of New York’s Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA).
Abbruzzese is a recognized leader in the field of pancreatic cancer research and treatment. He has published over 350 articles, and has co-edited many books. Additional honorary degrees will be handed out to three other people: Dr. Mayra Luz Pérez Díaz,
who is the first female president of the Universidad Centroamericana (UCA) in Managua, Nicaragua, Emily Rafferty, who is the first woman to head the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Rev. Daniel J. Harrington, S.J., who is a professor at the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry.
Past Commencement Speakers 2002: Douglas C. Perlitz, Founder of Project Pierre Toussaint 2003: Strobe Talbott, American foreign policy analyst 2004: Cokie Roberts, an American Emmy Awardwinning journalist and bestselling author 2005: Fr. Jeffrey Von Arx, Fairfield University President 2006: British August Robinson, National Director of Jesuit refugee services 2007: Rev. Thomas J. Regan, S.J, Provincial Superior of the New England Province of the Society of Jesus and former Fairfield professor
Contributed by Nancy Habetz
Dr. James Abbruzzese was named the speaker for the graduate student commencement and Katherine Lapp was announced as the speaker for this year’s 60th undergraduate commencement.
Walking Away
2008: Fr. Jeffrey Von Arx 2009: Dr. Peter J. Pronovost, named one of Time’s most influential people for his work in medicine
Biology professor abandons bird research in face of tree removal
By Lily Norton Executive Editor After $24,000 and four years of research, Assistant Biology Professor Brian Walker is throwing in the towel. Walker’s decision to terminate his research of birds on campus was brought on by the construction in the Quick Center parking lot, which forced him to take down two bird houses nestled in the trees that once stood there. “It’s no longer possible for me to continue this project that I have done for four years,” Walker said. “Almost $24,000 which was meant for this project is now gone.” The research was one of the highlights of campus research for the biology department because it offered students hands-on experience without having to travel long distances. When Walker received a call on March 1 from the campus Facilities Management telling him to take down one of his research bird houses in the southend forest on campus, he couldn’t believe his ears. This was not the first time his research with birds on campus had been affected by campus construction. Frank Spizzoucco ‘10, a biology major who had been working on the project for two years, said Walker had to take down about 10 bird houses prior to the new construction. Every time, it set back his research because “it takes time
Walker | page 5
The minimum price to replace all of the 2,583 books lost in the damage done to the library by the recent Nor’easter is $88,519.41. That assumes each book that was damaged was a hardcover, meaning none were academic, which some probably were. The 2009 Library & Book Trade Almanac lists the average cost of a hardcover book as $34.27. It lists the average cost of an academic book
Index Opinion• Page 7 Features • Page 9 Arts & Entertainment • Page 13 Coffee Break • Page 17 Sports • Page 24
The Reflection of Fairfield
Student Loans to be Revamped By Keri Harrison News Editor
Student loans. Many students have them and few know exactly how they are going to pay them back. But with the passing of a new bill last week, it is about to get a bit easier. A new bill revamping the student loan process was passed last week by the House and the Senate as a part of President Barack Obama’s health care reform bill. According to an article in the New York Times, commercial and private banks will no longer provide student loans with federal money and the Pell grant system will be increased for needy students. In addition, students will then repay loans after graduation based on a certain percentage of their income. Director of Financial Aid Erin Chiaro said, “The new bill eliminates all private lenders from making federal Stafford or Plus loans and all universities and colleges must participate with the Federal Direct Lending Program.” In other words, the U.S. government has now taken on the role of direct lender in terms of student loans. “The only change to Fairfield University students is that they will have to complete a new master promissory note (MPN) with the U.S. Dept. of Education in order to borrow either a federal Stafford or Plus loan,” he explained. “Everything else remains the same for the student.” Senior Erin Shea said, “While I agree that regulation needs to be in place, I think the government is trying to over-extend themselves in this instance.” “I think this bill will provide students with many benefits. Pell grants will be increased and the new repayment plan should aid students,” said Stephanie Stadig ‘10. “It will give new graduates more financial stability to start their careers, find that first apartment, and get themselves going,” she continued.
Contributed by Brian Walker
Brian Walker stands with a 120-year-old tree stump in the Claver parking lot.
Library Loses Books At High Cost By Meghan Schelzi Multimedia Editor
The Independent Student Newspaper of Fairfield University
at $83.71. Processing materials and staff costs to acquire the books and make them shelf ready are additional costs. Joan Overfield, director of Library Services at Fairfield, who was among the first to witness the damage, said that after about 30 seconds of feeling shock and horror at the damage, the urge to assess all the damage and begin immediately to do everything they could to prevent any further losses kicked in.
Breaking down the new student loan package Private banks and middlemen will no longer provide students with federal loans. Students will now go through their financial aid office to apply for government-issued loans. Repayment plans, a huge addition to the bill, will depend on 10 percent of their incomes. This applies to loans taken out after July 1, 2014.
Over | page 5
Log onto fairfieldmirror. com for more!
Inside This Week Stories of April
The Mystery of
Fool’s Past
The Quad Art
See page 13.
See page 11.
The Mirror takes a break next week. our next issue will be in two weeks.
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
News
In The News
»How not to help an on campus organization
PAGE 2
»Lacrosse
»Q&A With Former He Said Chris Surette
| page 8
Got Nuggets?
Page 2
dominates Hobart, garner national attention
| page 11
|page 22
The Stag Sched This Weekend around campus ... in five easy steps
By News Staff
Celebrate: April Fool’s Day Thursday is April 1, otherwise known as April Fool’s Day. Unfortunately with break, you won’t be able to prank your roommates, but you can brilliantly fool your friends and family at home. Be creative! You can only use this excuse once a year.
Have: A Happy Easter Easter is this Sunday so celebrate it in style. Go to Mass, participate in an Easter egg hunt, buy chocolate bunnies, and eat the seasonal Peeps.
Peter Caty/The Mirror
At this past Saturday’s men’s lacrosse game, The Mirror and Fairfield Athletics hosted a chicken nugget eating contest, sponsored by Garden Catering.
Mirror 2x2 Happy April Fool’s Day!
Pete Caty
Last year we had the Morron, this year we found two. What do you think of the new 2x2?
What do you think of the first question?
My calculator says it equals 4.
This test is easy, I did it all in my head. No calculator.
Watch: The Yankees/Red Sox Season Opener What better way to wrap up Easter Sunday than by watching the notorious Yankees/Red Sox rivalry begin the baseball season? The first pitch is 8:05 p.m on ESPN.
Attend: The R&J Project In preparation for the anniversary of William Shakespeare’s birthday at the end of April, Theater Fairfield is hosting the R&J Project. The play does not begin until April 20, but you can attend the Shakespeare Behind bars workshop next Monday night.
Google: Dr. Katherine Lapp
Chris Haliskoe
It’s a poor man’s 3x5, and a rich woman’s 4x4. Plus i get a silver medal for looks.
I just told you what I thought. We are off to a great start.
Better Know a Stag Name: Ralph Belvedere Major/Minor: Italian and Music
By Mikaela Tierney
Hometown: Waterbury, CT
Are you attending this year’s commencement? Then you might as well Google Katherine Lapp, this year’s speaker at the undergraduate speaker. Read up on all of her accomplishments.
By the Numbers: Damage to the Library $88,519.41
What’s one change you wish to see on campus? I would love to see more people greeting each other when walking around campus. Our campus is too small for everyone to not give a smile — maybe someone needs it!
The minimum amount of money it would cost to replace all of the books lost.
What’s your favorite Fairfield tradition? Hunger Cleanup is so important — you get to give back to the surrounding communities and it gives you a sense of being an active part of the community, putting others before yourself.
The number of books the library lost due to the damage from a recent storm.
What’s your favorite song at the moment? So many! But one of my favorites of all-time is “Shut Your Eyes” by Snow Patrol.
The average cost of an academic book, according to the Library and Book Trade Almanac.
Glee Club and Lord’s Chords take up a lot of your time — why do you do it? Glee and Lord’s Chords have given me so much — with the wonderful friends and the music — that I want to give back as much as I can to show my gratitude!
The average cost of a hardcover book, according to the Library and Book Trade Almanac.
2,583 83.71
34.27
Page 3
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
News
Construction Continues to Cause Headaches By Sasha Campbell Staff Writer Construction on Fairfield’s campus broke ground in the Quad on March 8, leaving students in the Quad residence halls annoyed with the sounds that accompany the beginning stages of the campus’ renovations. The new residence — to become 70 McCormick Road — in the Quad is only one new dormitory planned to be completed by is set to be completed by August 2011. The plans also include renovating the old Jesuit Residence, that will now become 42 Bellarmine Road, turning Dolan Hall into apartments, and building 51 McInnes Road in the Village. Students have already lodged their complaints about the new construction in the Village that required cutting down numerous trees, but now that construction is underway, new student complaints have surfaced. Alexander Guevara, a freshman in Regis, said, “Around 7 a.m., there’s loud beep-
ing which I sometimes think is my alarm, but it turns out to be the construction.” Although Guevara will take advantage of the newly renovated Jesuit Residence in the fall when he moves into 42 Bellarmine Road as a sophomore, he still thinks that the construction on campus is causing some issues. “I think it’s getting a little too crowded. I liked the open space, all the greenness on campus,” said Guevara. “Now we’re going to have too many buildings.” The new Quad building will have just over 200 square feet per room, compared to the 190 to 200 square feet per room in the average freshman residence hall, according to David Frassinelli, assistant vice president and director of Facilities Management. “There will be rooms on either side of the hall, just like the residence halls we already have on campus,” continued Frassinelli. “But this one will have a very large lounge on the first floor and normal size lounges on the other floors, as well as
study rooms that will face the Quad. This building will follow the Jesuit ideals of living and learning.” Sophomore, Alyssa Accomando, who lives in Jogues, is also annoyed by the early start of the construction. “Most morning’s around 7 a.m. I’m woken up … I just wish they had waited till summer to start the construction,” she said. Although many students have stated their aggravation with the construction on the Quad, there are students who are not as bothered. Freshman Adam O’Neill, also a Regis resident, said that he only occasionally gets woken up by the construction and that it does not bother him all that much. The Quad construction is being completed by Gilbane Construction.
Peter Caty/The Mirror
Construction in the Quad for the new residence hall has disturbed students living in the Quad.
In the Know
V-Day All the Way By Annie Rooney Staff Writer The season of spring brings rain showers, warm sun rays and chirping birds, but V-Season brings memories, monologues, rants and prayers. Fairfield promotes this V-season with last weekend’s production of ‘A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant and A Prayer.’ The hour-and-fifteen minute show packed passion, emotion and humor into an empowering performance, as it aimed to raise awareness to stop violence against women and girls. “Stop raping our greatest resource,” the banner behind the stage lights read. The performance isn’t a group of feminists reciting monologues by world-renowned authors and playwrights, but rather a group of students, adults and individuals who care and have taken action to raise awareness about abuse toward females, the birthing demographic of the world. Eve Ensler’s familiar “Vagina Monologues” inspired
her to create the global movement to stop violence against women and girls: V-Day. Ensler’s motive for this international movement stems from her vision of “a planet in which women and girls will be free to thrive, rather than survive,” according to her V-Day Web site. Her charity has raised over $70 million and will continue to do Peter Caty/The Mirror so “until the violence stops.” Jen Martin ‘10 and the rest of the cast of ‘A Memory, A MonoDirector Gary Lee Pellelogue, A Rant and a Prayer’ performed this weekend. tier, a recent Fairfield graduate from the class of 2009, said characters are,” he said. ers any imaginable sexuallyin his program note, “This Zachary Tesoriero ‘11, abusive scenario. The wide material hurts. It is thick and one of the two male actors, range of actors’ ages enforces scalding.” was more than happy to be a the realism of the content. Ten different skits were part of the cast. Although it “When you hear Joan performed, all honing in on was a sad material, “finding talk, you know she is for real,” the violence, abuse and lack that thing, the connection,” he said Pelletier in regards one of recognition women face said, was the best part about of the adult actresses, Joan all over the world through the play. Grant, who is also a University rape, brothels and the humor Co-producers Jennifer publicist. popular culture attaches to the Martin ‘10 and Bradley Fay Fairfield proudly supports trauma. ‘12 were able to compile the this movement as all proPelletier was able to bring best cast they could, making ceeds from the performances more to the production by the play the success it was. were given to The Center stepping outside of the college Tesoriero didn’t choose to be for Women and Families of perspective. Commuting from a part of the cast. “Jen got me,” Eastern Fairfield Country, Inc. Brooklyn, N.Y., the two-month he said. Following the 2009 Vagina period of preparation followed Whether rape is seen as Monologue performance, a “skewed rehearsal schedule.” the ultimate practical joke or Fairfield continues to fight It was challenging for the acthrough sisters and families alongside the V-Day charity tors “to not forget who these being torn apart, the play covuntil the violence stops.
Fairfield News Briefs News staff Students to “Take Back the Night”
This past Monday night, Fairfield students participated in the “Take Back the Night” march around campus. According to a University press release, the event, which was led by Alicia Bissonnette ‘12, was aimed at spreading awareness about domestic violence and abuse. The students marching paused at specific locations on campus, including the Egan Chapel, the Levee, and the DiMenna-Nyselius Library. Dolan Business School Asks Alumni for Help The Dolan School of Business Advisory Council will be hosting a forum next Thursday night titled, “Alumni Leaders in Business: Navigating Your Path to Success.” The event will feature alumni who will speak about their careers and how they found success at Fortune 500 companies. “Wall of Words” Worth More Than 1,000 This past Monday night the International Studies Department hosted the “Wall of Words” seminar, which was implemented to raise awareness about women’s rights issues.
Kaveny Gives the Commonweal Talk By Dan Leitao Asst. Managing Director The most important generation to hear this conversation is your own generation, according to eminent Catholic legal scholar Cathleen Kaveny after she gave a lecture on the importance of the teachings of St. Thomas of Aquinas. Her talk “Law, Morality, and the Culture Wars,” which was a part of the third Annual Commonweal Magazine Lecture at the University this past Wednesday, examined the teachings of St. Thomas in the context of significant current issues. The lecture discussed hot button issues such as abortion, gay marriage,
euthanasia, stem cell research and cloning. Kaveny stressed the importance of looking to how Aquinas looked at laws while also pointing out the flaws of Aquinas’ dependence on laws without separating the different types of laws. She stressed this point saying, “You don’t read criminal law to find out what virtue is, but to find out what it is absolutely not.” Kaveny’s other theme throughout the talk looked at being able to accept different viewpoints than your own and to be able to work with those who oppose your belief system. This was a message she felt was extremely important especially in today’s political realm.
In the Q&A portion of the lecture, Kaveny fielded a question which asked about politicians who do not believe in abortion because of their Catholic beliefs. Kaveny’s response criticized politicians for blaming their Catholic belief system for their views on abortion. She felt that this meant politicians make the pro-life movement seem to be a small group of Catholics. Paul Lakeland, the head of the Catholic Studies department, organized the event and said he was pleased with the turnout. He found there was a good mix of young and old and said the only missing age group was 40-year-olds, which he
joked were at home taking care of their kids. Lakeland was also impressed with the intelligence of the questions during the Q&A period, pointing out that the especially students Kaveny that asked questions. Joe Mercadante ‘11 shared a different view. “I felt lost, it was over my head and hard to understand.” But Mercadante did say, “She did make good points, it was interesting.”
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
News
Page 4
Cleanup, Cleanup, Everybody Everywhere Staff Report Everyone certainly did their share on Saturday morning as a part of the University’s 22nd annual Hunger Cleanup event. According to the Hunger Cleanup Board at the event, over 700 students participated in this year’s event. Teams and students went all over Fairfield County, from Trumball to Bridgeport and did work such as painting and building gardens.
“By far, my favorite part of the day was when the volunteers came back and told us about the work sites. We had worked so hard to try to get good places for the volunteers and to hear such great feedback was so rewarding. I loved hearing the stories that happened during the day — that to me is the best part of the day!” -Hunger Cleanup Co-Chair Stephanie Iannuzzo ‘11
Photos by Peter Caty
Hundreds of students participated in this year’s Hunger Cleanup event.
“There is a great sense of solidarity because Hunger Cleanup demonstrates the passion that so many members of the Fairfield community have for being active and engaging in giving back to our larger community.” -Vivian Carballo ‘10
» See fairfieldmirror.com for more
“There is a moment at each Hunger Cleanup when you start to see of the members of the executive board feel a weight rising from their shoulders. You see their faces go from tight and drawn to relaxed and smiling as they begin to joke around instead of run around. It is the moment at which they see their months of hard work have come to fruition, their late nights have all been worthwhile and the dark circles under their eyes begin to fade.” -Hunger Cleanup Adviser Wylie Smith Blake
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
News
Over 2,500 Library Books Lost Continued from page 1 “I’ve attended many workshops on disaster planning and the library has a disaster manual. You hope to never have to use that training,” said Overfield. According to the DNL Report, which covered the damage, beginning around noon on that Sunday, a Save Our Stacks (SOS) team was organized. Immediately upon seeing the damage, the three librarians present checked the extent of the damage to all three floors and started gathering plastic tarps to cover the stacks, Pritchard staff was called to begin cleanup efforts and a few hours later a roofer and a disaster recovery firm manager arrived. “Everyone worked very hard and very quickly to clean up the damage and to prevent it from spreading to dry materials. The response and dedication by all was amazing,” said Overfield. The librarians moved swiftly to salvage as many books from the disaster as possible. “There is a window of about 72 hours before mold sets in and our goal was to save all that we could. The roofer patched the roof, the carpeting and stacks were cleaned, and the wet ceiling tiles were removed,” said Overfield. According to a press release, about 120’ x 30-40’ of roof peeled back along the parking lot side and
caused significant damage to the stacks. Water leaked to the two floors below and caused similar damage there. The 12 librarians divided up the affected areas and took responsibility for checking each section of books to be sure none were missed. “A second team reviewed Contributed by Joan Overfield the tagged secThe library was heavily damaged during the major tions while Peter storm two weeks ago. Morris developed a barcoding program so we could es, science and some social science. quickly scan all the items we were The remaining adjacent book stacks discarding and have an accurate are continuously monitored to be record,” said Overfield. sure no mold is developing. The lost books now appear Liaison librarians will be in the catalog as “WET BOOKS working with faculty to review the Unavailable.” Each book that was lists of lost items and select those to discarded was evaluated a minireplace since some of the books are mum of three times and up to five out of print or newer editions may times by different librarians. be available. According to Overfield, they Overfield explained that the were able save several dozen that library will get some insurance had minimal damage during this money for replacements but she final review. But unfortunately, don’t know when that will arrive. 2,583 books were removed from the “We’ve been building this building the following Wednesday. collection for years and once the The parts hit worst were sections on reality of the devastation hit it was Shakespeare, film, modern languag- heartbreaking,” said Overfield.
Walker Lets Research Go
Continued from page 1
to establish the birdhouses in the environment,” said Spizzoucco. Walker said the decision was made because he feels his efforts are fruitless, despite his hard work and contributions to the oncampus research portfolio. After the reduction of 20 percent of this forest, the data that tracked the bird activity through 80 different houses on campus would have changed dramatically. “Not only are the bird houses that we took down affected, but so are the surrounding 12 houses that are now on the edge of the forest,” said Spizzoucco. “It’s really unfortunate,” continued Spizzoucco. “If we had known two years ago, we wouldn’t have done that work. It wasn’t directly communicated to us, even though we were being directly affected by it.” Many students had worked on the project since its inception. Spizzoucco, John Haskins ‘10, and Mike De Lea ‘10 spent summers on campus working on the research. “It was really hard taking down the bird houses,” said De Lea. “Basically everything I worked on all summer was for nothing.” But the students involved said they have more concern for the legacy they now cannot leave
Page 5
behind to other students looking to participate in research projects. “This is a big deal,” said De Lea. “It’s student research. It could’ve provided students with a good opportunity.” This development adds more flame to the fiery dispute between administration and environmental faculty, staff and students on the parking lot expansion. The Environmental Steering Committee claims that it should have been consulted on the new development plans for the Quick Center much earlier than Feb. 1, when it was informed of the decision to cut down 60 trees was already made. “The ball was already rolling by the time we got wind of this,” said De Lea. Although the construction on the parking lot began over spring break, students of the environmental clubs on campus — Green Campus Initiative and Student Environmental Association — protested every day last week, including outside the Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday. Zach Gross ‘12, secretary & treasurer of SEA, said, “It’s sort of in the administration’s court now to come up with a formal proposal describing how to protect the campus environment in the future.”
The word of the day is:
Community Hunger clean-up team? Check. (Even if we don’t particularly like manure). Intramural softball team? Check. (Even if we’re still a year away from contention). As fun and innovative a working environment as you’ll find on campus while gaining internship-like experience... and maybe even scoop some extra funds for the weekend. Check. (The beach is... that way?) Hiring and looking to add to our staff? Take a wild guess. The Mirror: it’s relationships, it’s our family, it’s our community.
com
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Opinion | 7
Online
Which is better: 2x2, 3x5, or 4x4? Send your thoughts to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com.
editorial
Tom Cleary | Editor in Chief Lily Norton | Executive Editor Chris Simmons | Managing Editor Veronica Florentino | Opinion Editor
Editor Veronica Florentino »opinion@fairfieldmirror.com
fairfieldmirror.com
Early morning wake-up call
Wait ... who was the commencement speaker? Fairfield finally announced the speakers for this year's commencement and both choices for the undergraduate and graduate schools keep in line with the traditional criteria that the University has espoused in the past few years; they have a connection to the University and both seem to embrace Jesuit values. Katherine Lapp, the executive vice president of Harvard, will deliver the undergraduate speech while Dr. James Abbruzzese, an expert in the field of pancreatic cancer research and treatment, will address the graduate students. Both graduated from Fairfield, Lapp in 1978 and Abbruzzese in 1974. While both speakers have distinguished careers with a variety of experiences, in twenty years, is any student going to fondly recall that time they heard the executive vice president of Harvard speak? She better be one hell of an engaging talker. There is nothing wrong with the University electing to give honorary degrees to people who reflect the strategic plan, but someone who can relate or engage us better be a prerequisite. Is Lapp go-
ing to regale us with tales of her oversight of human resources at Harvard? Or maybe she's got some exciting stories about her experiences as executive director of the New York's MTA ... although anyone who has ridden the Metro North can attest to a variety of interesting characters. Lapp and Abbruzzese have achieved so much during their careers that they are certainly deserving of an honorary degree from their alma mater. But we want more from our commencement speakers, someone that we proudly brag about twenty years from now as delivering our commencement speech. When we graduate, we want someone who is going to send us out into the world with advice, humor or expectations. Preferably all three. Maybe Lapp will surprise us and deliver an engaging speech. But in choosing an administrator from another school, that doesn't seem too likely. Although we should look on the bright side. At least we didn't get stuck with University President Fr. Jeffrey von Arx like the graduates of 2008 and 2005 did.
In reference to the affects of construction of student's daily lives. Have an opinion? Send it to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com.
I Only Hit Snooze Once By Dan Leitao Assistant General Manager
You wake up and look at your alarm only to find that your class starts in one minute. You quickly roll out of bed, change your clothes, and spray on some cologne and dash out your dorm door. A second later you quietly slink into the classroom while the teacher is lecturing and find the closest available desk. You can come up with a million excuses, whether it's because the clock in the classroom is faster then your cellphone or that you hit snooze one too many times. No matter what the excuse, it is still disrespectful. When it comes to attendance, it becomes clear that there are a few different categories: Present and Participating This is the student who is in the front of the classroom with their notebook out, asking questions and is always the first to answer a question posed by the teacher. Some might call them an over achiever or a teacher's pet but at the end of the day, they are getting the most for their money. Sometimes they may be the biggest partier, but more often then not they are the ones who are libbing it up while the rest of us are living it up. Present-ish Whether hungover from the night before or baked from a morning toke, these are the students that roll into class just for something to do. They may answer a question here or there, but they're more likely to keep a low profile
Notable and Quotable
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 opinion@fairfieldmirror.com or through our Web site (www.fairfieldmirror.com). All letters to the editor that are appropriate will be published either in print or on www.fairfieldmirror.com The Mirror reserves the right to edit letters and articles for content, length and
trying to stay under the radar so that when they miss that class the teacher never notices. "I’m in class but I can’t be bothered with paying attention." These are the students who read Barstoolsports or TMZ on their laptop, text their friends for every second of class, or finally catch up on missed sleep. The question becomes why they even bother showing up if they are just going to blatantly not pay attention. Late-ish Those are the students who try as they might, cannot make it to class on time. They know how to sneak into the back of a classroom without being noticed and think they are tricking the teacher. Often you answer the first question the teacher asks after you enter, to make up for your lateness. "Wait, you're in this class?" I just had one of those lovely exams that are scheduled the day before you leave for break. The professor handed out the exam and a student asked, “Do you want us to answer in essay format?” The professor responded, “You know I haven’t seen you in a while. Had you been here you would have known this.” This is the epitome of a person who thinks they are college. The student typically thinks that they can cheat their way through the tests. At the end of the day, just remember that each class you sit in costs over 300 dollars, so maybe you should make the most of it.
"Working in higher education is the closest I've been to working in public service. My job here is to support the great faculty and staff so we can teach future leaders."
grammatical error. Letters should be free of obscenities and personal attacks,
— Katie Lapp '78, the Commencement speaker for the Class of 2010
and should contain correct and factual information. Letters should not exceed 400 words.
The Mirror Incorporated 1977
News
Sports
Business
Opinion
Multimedia
Online
Meghan Schelzi, Editor
Michelle Morrison, Managing Editor Joe Cefoli, Project Manager Traci Dantoni, Content Editor
Photography
Adviser
Keri Harrison, Editor Mikaela Tierney, Features & Asst. Editor
Veronica Florentino, Editor Elizabeth Connors, Asst. Editor Vincent Ferrer, Cartoonist Tom Cleary, Editor in Chief Lily Norton, Executive Editor Chris Simmons, Managing Editor
Arts & Entertainment
Melissa Mann, Editor Gabriella Tutino, Asst. Editor
Tom Cleary, Keith Connors, Chris Simmons, Editors
Peter Caty, Executive Editor Ali Foreman, Asst. Editor
Contact Information Mail Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824 Phone Newsroom: 203-256-6600 | Advertising: 203-256-6594 | Editor in Chief: 203-256-6529
Email fairfield.mirror@gmail.com Fax 203-256-6529
Keith Connors, General Manager Christopher Haliskoe, Managing Director Kristian Petric, Distribution Manager
Dr. James Simon
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Opinion
Page 8
NYU's Royal Admissions Treatment By Ana Ziegler Staff Writer
Being a son or a daughter can be difficult sometimes. Most of us have been embarrassed by our parents at some point in our life, often more than once. This case though adds another dimension to the subject and will probably let anything our parents have done to embarrass us look like nothing. A former professor of NYU, Neal Flomenbaum, is suing NYU because his son did not get accepted into their four-year program. This professor was involved in a fight with the university before when he left the school on 1987. In his 2002 settlement, it was stated that his children would receive the same special considerations given to other children of professors. NYU gives children of current or retired professors at NYU special consideration when they apply for a four-year program there. It basically means that the admissions committee takes a second look at their application and being related to a professor might influence their decisions positively if the student’s acceptance is on the edge. If they don’t get accepted into the four-year program, they get also special consideration for being accepted into the NYU’s two-year-liberal-arts program with a chance to transfer after two years into the college. Only 10 percent of students that get rejected from the four-year bachelor’s program get offered admission into the twoyear program. Students of professors attending NYU also qualify for tuition remission. This treatment is absolutely voluntary but standard for any professor. The problem here was that Flomenbaum’s son did not identify himself as a child of a current or retired professor. Technically he was right not to do so, but the admissions committee originally had no idea of the special arrangements. After learning about the settlement though, they gave his application another look but still decided not to accept him because his qualifications just weren’t up to par. However, they accepted him into the two-year program. The student refused the offer and instead went to the University of Miami and later
transferred to Colombia. His father now claims that his son had not been given the promised extra consideration and wants to be reimbursed for the cost of the tuition of the other universities. First of all, getting into what seems to be a yearlong settlement dispute is already a thing by itself. Then, part of the settlement is the right for Flomenbaum's children to be treated as if he were still a professor. This makes one wonder if that was one of the reasons why the settlement took so long. Good for him that he made it part of his contract because NYU is a great school and most people would probably be happy to attend. If you get special treatment that you usually don’t deserve, don’t complain about not getting it, especially if it is clear to everybody that you got it. If his son does not meet admissions standards for NYU, he should not be able to attend. It would not be fair to all of the other students and he would not benefit from it. If his father did not teach him to be disciplined enough to sit down and study or if he just is not smart enough, then that is what you get. And the son did get accepted into the twoyear program so he can’t complain about not getting special treatment. The son himself refused to attend and instead went to Miami. He later transferred to Columbia instead of NYU. This seems to me as if he did not want to attend NYU. Has his father ever spoken to him about this? If I was his son, I probably would not want to attend NYU because I can imagine that he has left a rather bad impression with the staff and faculty, and being his son could turn out to be difficult and quite the disadvantage. The father is acting ridiculous and well outside of what is reasonable. It is really becoming embarrassing. I would not want to set an example like that for my kids. Especially, if he, hypothetically, would win. That would send the message to people that you can get anything if you just have enough money and time to keep suing people until someone is finally on your side, and that it is good being from a privileged family because in the end you will always get what you want. I hope it never comes to that.
BCC 212 Disrupts Communication Throughout our time at The Mirror, we have been truly blessed to be an integral part of the campus community. We have been the observers and the primary authors of the events and ideals that shape Fairfield University, a task and responsibility that we do not take likely. But we do not always receive the warmest welcome from our campus colleagues. Last week, The Mirror sent a formal request to The Office of Student Activities (BCC 212) for two campus announcements. Unfortunately, through emailed responses with Janice Buswell, an operations assistant from that office, both were rejected. The first was a campus announcement for two paid positions for sophomores, Webmaster and Business Manager. The Mirror’s Selection Committee felt it was important to let all sophomores know about the compensated on-campus positions. The Mirror was told that campus announcements were not for businesses offering positions. At that point we thought about changing our name to Bloomberg or Aflac since we liked the way their campus announcements were set up. But on the other hand, we were excited that Fairfield administrators called us a business. The second message was an effort to promote Garden Catering’s Nugget eating contest at the lacrosse game. Through strategic partnerships with our advertiser Garden Catering and our friends in Fairfield Athletics, The Mirror was able to help a local business in a recession while trying to increase the attendance against Hobart College, a perennial powerhouse. The Office of Student Activities informed The Mirror that campus announcements do not promote single events. We found this to be somewhat confusing, since one went out the week before to promote basketball coach Ed Cooley’s appearance on WFAN. The Mirror found itself in a tight pinch. We didn’t want to spend excess funds printing out “environmentally destructive,” flyers to put in campus mailboxes. It’s Fairfield’s job to cut down the trees … not ours. While we have no reason to believe these acts were specifically directed toward The Mirror, we have to recognize those that they affected in addition to us. To the sophomores who were not able to hear about the job opportunity, we apologize. To those that missed out on the contest and subsequently didn’t get to stuff their faces with delicious chicken nuggets, we apologize. Part of our Jesuit tradition, is to be men for others. When University staffers prevent us from helping unemployed sophomores, atheletic teams and small businesses, we can't help but sit back and scratch our heads. BCC 212 in typical Fairfield fashion showed again that their actions do not match the University’s words. — Christopher Haliskoe, Managing Director Keith Connors, General Manager Dan Leitao, Assistant Managing Director
The Mirror 4 x 4 The Ladies ...
Lily Norton
Executive Editor
Veronica Florentino
Opinion Editor
What was your favorite moment as a Mirror Editor?
Best perk of being a Mirror staffer?
Best Mirror office quote?
Why is 4x4 superior to 3x5?
Headline reads: "Theatre Fairfield, bitches!!!!!"
"We got food everywhere, as if the party was catered."
Michael Ian Black: "Are you a journalism major? You need to get your sh*t together."
It's not — I'm all for equality.
"Who, What, Wednesdays." Bring it, Lily! Bring it!
Look at the staff box on page 7 — those are the people who made my Fairfield life complete.
Melissa and I forgetting News Editor everything we were supposed to do after we came back from abroad.
Keri Harrison
Melissa Mann
Arts & Entertainment Editor
the Mirror girls say good-bye
The Mirror Christmas party. Secret Santa at it's finest. And by finest, I mean we didn't mess up at all ...
I'm going to say the time we had a massive office sing-along ... which could be heard from the IRHA office next door.
4x4 > 3x5 4+4+4+4 > 3+3+3+3+3 16 > 15 QED.
News is on top.
In the words of our new and improved EIC: "Spaghett!"
I will simplify Veronica's answer: 16 is greater than 15.
Free concert tickets, duhh. And SBC dinners.
"Let's go inside!"
We're prettier and we have better outfits.
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Features | 9
Online Check for updated blogs and new content.
Editor Mikaela Tierney » features@fairfieldmirror.com
fairfieldmirror.com
Faces from the Fairfield Crowd Chris Surette ‘10
Fairfield Cab Driver Malcolm Yank
By Annie Rooney Staff Writer
I think is a load of crap ... Come on. What’s up next? How far is it gnna get?
We all remember how the “He Said/ She Said” column took a turn for the worse when senior “He-Said,” Chris Surette, wrote about “The Walk of Shame.” His opinions sparked controversy that received national attention and caused the column to be cancelled. The Mirror had the chance to sit down with Surette to discuss last semester’s drama. The Mirror: Your article caused quite the controversy. Do you have any regrets about what you wrote? Chris Surette: Obviously I have some regrets. I wish I didn’t say some words, but I still don’t think, in my opinion, it was the worst thing that came out of this school’s newspaper.
TM: Did you receive any positive feedback from the article? CS: I did not have one guy say anything bad to me. I mean, actually, [Dan] Stanczyk (an old “He Said” columnist) told me that my article was really offensive, which kind of made me laugh. I only had positive remarks. Also, the senior class ... girls have been so supportive. Some girls might have said ‘Oh, in my opinion it was a little offensive, but you know what, they don’t understand what this whole piece is ...’ I’ve only had two people come up to me and actually tell me to ‘f’ myself. I have had Mirror File Photo a little bit of hate mail on Facebook, but that comes with it.
TM: After reading your piece, some students felt victimized and filed complaints of sexual harassment. Were you able to step back and try and understand the reasons for their anger? CS: From my understanding these kids [who submitted] their complaints to the university, two of them were males. I did not have any males come up to me and tell me ‘you shouldn’t have done that.’ People were going around saying I was promoting rape. I don’t think I said the word rape once in any of my articles. They said I was promoting violence, which
TM: This controversy was even picked up nationally. What’s it like to be the guy behind these condemned writing? CS: The thing that really pissed me off more than anything is the fact that it got national attention, national press. There was a show for Boston PBS station called “Beat the Press,” and these people were just ripping me apart and not once did they contact me or contact Tom [Cleary]. They went out of their way and thought they knew what they were talking about and when it comes down to it they have no idea what the hell they’re talking about.
Public Safety Officer Justin Walker By Mabel del Castillo Staff Writer Being a public safety officer tends to have a negative connotation to Fairfield University students. But besides busting people for alcohol and giving parking tickets, they are normal down- to- earth people. The Mirror spoke with Public Safety Officer Justin Walker to explore the other, side of him. The Mirror: What college did you go to? Officer Justin Walker: I went to a couple: Fordham, Southern Connecticut State and I am currently taking classes at Fairfield University. TM: What is your major? Where would you like to go with it? JW: My major is professional studies, my concentration is organizational leadership and I am thinking I will stay in the law enforcement field, but I’m not positive.
For additional answers and more profiles, check out www.fairfieldmirror.com
TM: What is your favorite part about your job? JW: The camaraderie of the department. TM: What is your favorite movie? JW: Caddyshack. TM: What was your craziest college experience? JW:Ahh [laughs] … Lets just say too many wild nights and memory’s a blur. TM: Where is your favorite place to eat in town? JW: Either Senor Salsa or Bear and Grill. TM: What is funniest thing you ever witnessed on campus? JW: The funniest times are when I see a student do something and I confront them and the student denies it. Contributed Photo
TM: Q. How long have you been a public safety officer for? JW: Three years.
By Ashley Zangara Staff Writer Malcolm S. Yank is a driver for Fairfield Taxi. He has been working as a taxi driver for the past 10 years. The Mirror sat down with him to discuss his job, his experiences, and his craziest past patrons. The Mirror: Do you like your job? MY: Eh, not really. No I’m just joking, it’s okay. I’m here everyday because of the economy. TM: Are the majority of your customers Fairfield University students? MY: No, the customers are a mix. Some are students, teachers, professionals and working people. TM: How do you view the students you do drive? MY: I like the students. They pay! Better yet, daddy pays for the cab. [laughter] TM: What are some of the strangest occurrences you’ve seen while driving your cab? MY: Strangest things? I get people that smell. I one time picked up this drunk guy that was sitting on this bench in Fairfield.
None of the other taxi drivers wanted to pick him up because they were scared. The guy ended up giving me a $100 tip to take him up the road to the Fairfield Inn. I also get people that are drunk and don’t have money though. TM: What happens when some one doesn’t have money? MY: If the customer is a regular, they usually say, “charge it.” If not, and Mirror File Photo someone tries to beat me out of paying for the ride then I have them arrested. I call on the radio. TM: Has someone ever vomited in your taxi? MY: Yes. One time particular, I was picking up one of my regulars from Stop and Shop. She was drunk and right as she was getting into the cab she puked all over the inside. TM: What happens when someone vomits? Do they have to pay extra? MY: Some things happen. They don’t have to pay extra. I clean it out myself.
Father Charles Allen By Dan Leitão Staff Writer Father Charles Allen is the executive assistant to the president at Fairfield. He has been a part of the University community for the past 33 years. The Mirror: What is the greatest change you have seen on campus? Father Charles Allen: I have seen a lot of buildings go up, I’ve seen the campus change its layout, I have seen more diversity, I have even seen the religious part change from not having a chapel to having a chapel. TM: Why did you become a Jesuit? Fr. A: Because I wanted to see the world. The Navy would not take me and the Jesuits would. I did not want to be a diocese priest because you can’t really go anywhere, whereas the Jesuits are an international order. TM: What would you have liked to have done if you had not become a Jesuit? Fr. A: I probably would have taught high school math as math major. I’d like to
think I would have gotten a nice job with a computer company. TM: You are one of two people at Fairfield whose e-mail address is not their name but their title. Is there any story behind that? Fr. A: The fellow before me had the email [address] executive@ mail.fairfield.edu. I’m not the only one with no name because President von Arx has president@fairfield. edu. But I like “executive”. TM: Why do you love living in Dolan? Fr. A: One story I tell is: I came home one night and girls were sitting in the hallway and said, “Father, do you have a car? Can you take us to Cold Stone [Creamery]? We will buy you a cup of ice cream!” Mirror File Photo [I also like] saying mass in the study hall, but just having the kids around. People always say, ‘are you lonely?’ I live with 300 students plus the Jesuit community of 25. You behave like the people you live with, if you live with young immature people you will act immature — which is great.
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Features
What IS That? The Mystery of the Quad Art
Page 11
By Michelle Morrison Online Managing Editor They kind of look like French fries. If you’re ever walking through the quad past Gonzaga towards Canisius, you’ll encounter two large sculptures that resemble everyone’s favorite fast food snack. The sculptures, one yellow and one red, are the work of New York artist Larry Mohr, and they have graced Fairfield’s campus since the early 1980s. They are “constructionist abstractions — powerful forms using industrial materials, forged in the style of David Smith,” according to Phillip Eliasoph of the visual and performing arts department. “Vee I,” the red sculpture, stands in memorial to those Catholics who helped Jews during the Holocaust. It arrived on campus in 1982, and currently stands between Gonzaga and Regis. Only two years later, Fairfield received “Criss Cross V,” the yellow sculpture located between Gonzaga and Canisius. Mohr donated the works to campus in honor of his childhood friend Christopher J. Mooney, who later become a Jesuit and the academic vice president at Fairfield, according to Eliasoph. They are constructed out of I-Beam Cor-Ten steel and painted yellow and red. Eliasoph said that having art around campus is very important because it “adds another critical dimension to the aesthetic landscape of our campus” and “the more we experience widens our lens of the visual world.” However, few students seemed to know what the statues were for or where they came from. “I thought it was just modern art,” said Dan Shapiro ’10. “They have them at Muhlenberg so when I first saw them, I thought it was something that all the universities were doing.” Tara DaSilva ’10 agreed, adding that their location near the quad means not many people see them. “I honestly didn’t pay that much notice to them, even as an art minor,” she said. “Honestly, it looks like it is just part of the landscape. People see it there, but it doesn’t bring up a topic of conversation.” Chelsea Bielecki ’12, a quad resident, said that she doesn’t think many people pay attention to them. “I don’t really understand them but I think they’re aesthetically pleasing,” said Bielecki. “It’s a nice change of color from of all the monotonous grays of the dorms.” Shawne Lomauro ‘11 appreciates the art pieces and wishes to see art in more places across campus. “I think they bring something really important to the quad because they’re something other than just grass. I like that they’re something colorful, and the fact that we’ve taken art and expanded it somewhere new on campus is fantastic,” she said. Ali Foreman/The Mirror
The structure behind Gonzaga Hall on the quad is just one of the two similar beam art pieces on campus — the other is a yellow structure between Canisius Hall and Gonzaga Hall.
Jackstaposition:
Just A Normal Night Pause. To put this in the proper context, one needs to know Pat is essentially an albino version of the Jolly Jack McNamara Green Giant. He could probably stomp Staff Writer you out if he wanted, but once you get to know him you realize all he really wants to do is be your friend, promote proper nutrition and wear a toga made out of leaves. His RA photo in one of Before I begin this week’s installment, the townhouse laundry rooms refers I’d just like to take a few inches of print to him as “The Impact,” which would be space to wish my friend, housemate and a terrifying nickname were it not located former FUSA presidential candidate, Kyle in the place where one is encouraged to Duggan, a very happy 21st birthday. Kyle: wash their unmentionables with products at last you can celebrate a set of circumnamed ‘Snuggle’ and ‘Cheer.’ Nevertheless, stances in which number 2 is placed before I had always joked that, one day, Pat was number 1. Zing! going to get rabies, the Rage Virus or a seriMoving on, I was in the city for a night ous case of the grumplestiltskins, and then this past weekend visiting some alumni he would kill us all. Wouldn’t you know it, I friends (including one named Tony da was about to be proven right. Costa, who asked I subtly mention him Unpause. With shutter-quick speed, in this column. Request denied, Tony). Pat latched onto Zach, threw him to the When I came back the day after, I found ground and moved TO BITE A CHUNK my townhouse was full of its residents; my OUT HIM. When Pat got back up, he just housemates Zach, Nick, Kyle, Preble and left Zach lying there. No one else in the Pat were present house, least of all myself, knew what to do. I had walked into a conversation This was all more the case when Zach himalready in progress and, when I arrived, Pat self inexplicably stood up with the same started chuckling and jogged towards the look Pat had on earlier; another pregnant stairs. cow looking at all the grass. Zach bolted to“Hey, wait here, I want to do somewards Kyle. Pat ran at Nick. I had no escape thing real quick,” he said as he ran past me. route. Then they all started giggling. Immediately after ascending a flight, “I love that so much!” he stomped back down, halted at the land“Yeah, it’s like I said last night: Zombie ing and gave Zach the same kind of look I Pat is terrifying!” imagine a pregnant cow would give a field “Wait, wait, wait, I wanna do it again!” of grass. That’s when Pat screamed. This repeated about a thousand times “BWOO-AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHbefore I went to bed. In other houses, I HH!!!” He tore at Zach like a knuckleball understand they play Scrabble. out of the mitt.
The Writing on the Wall By Mikaela Tierney Features Editor Students on their way to the dining hall, the Stag, or anywhere around the BCC on Monday night were met with a new wall on campus — the Wall of Words in honor of those affected by domestic violence. Held the night of the Take Back The Night March, the Wall of Words creation was a component of V-Season, a time of awareness for domestic violence against women. “We were able to share a lot of important information, raising awareness about the issue as well as helping students understand its relevance,” said sopho-
more Julie Whittaker, a class member working on the event. Students wrote on teal ribbons, which represent victims of domestic violence. “Everyone wears teal for someone, and this venue allowed us all to express and share in that,” said Whittaker. Each ribbon carries the name of a loved one affected by domestic violence, or the name of someone for whom
Peter Caty/The Mirror
the student is acting out against domestic violence, i.e. “all women.” The Wall is now on display in the BCC. The event was planned and executed by students from the Seminar on Human Rights course, taught by Ana Siscar.
Peter Caty/The Mirror
The Wall of Words currently hangs on the 2nd floor balcony railing in the BCC for passerbys to see and reflect upon the names and thoughts written on each ribbon.
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Online Check our website for more Arts & Entertainment news.
Arts & Entertainment| 13 fairfieldmirror.com
White Stripes Live CD Nothing Special
Editor Melissa Mann » entertainment@fairfieldmirror.com
Newspapers Are Funny Too The Best April Fool’s Jokes in Media By Melissa Mann Arts and Entertainment Editor
Contributed Photo
By Andrew Robinson Staff Writer In 2007, the White Stripes embarked on a massive live tour, playing free concerts all over Canada. The White Stripes have been silent since then, but last week, in promotion of a new live DVD release, the duo released their first album in over three years. “Under the Great Northern Lights,” recorded from the Savoy Theatre on July 14, 2007, reiterates the White Stripes we all know and love. The White Stripes are renowned for their live shows, and this record is no different. Jack White’s ripping, boundless presence erupts through songs such as “Blue Orchid” and “Ball and Biscuit.” Meg White’s ominous yet necessary balance to the overwhelming energy of her faux brother/ex-husband adds to the oddity and mysteriously awesome nature that the White Stripes have used as a platform for success. For someone who loves live music, and doesn’t know The White Stripes all that well, please go buy this album. If you’re a steady White Stripes fan, you might see this album as unnecessary. These aren’t new tracks; they are the songs that made The White Stripes famous. It’s disconcerting to see after three years, the only thing the duo is putting out is live CDs and DVDs from old concerts. One hopes that this doesn’t mark the capstone to a band that revolutionized the idea of a band. Not only does this live CD challenge the capacity of your headphones, but it’s easily forgotten that there is only two people playing. One can only hope this is marking the end of the old error of The Whites Stripes in preparation for the new age of amplified southern rock to come.
Nobody knows exactly how April Fool’s Day originated, but it’s believed that it started somewhere in the 1500s. Since then, April Fool’s has been associated with all kinds of practical jokes, some of which have generated so much controversy that they’ve gone down in history as some of the best pranks of all time. With April Fool’s Day just a few days away, it only makes sense to chronicle some of the most famous April Fool’s Day jokes in somewhat recent memory, pulled from the Museum of Hoaxes. 1. In 1957 BBC broadcasted a story that fooled the nation with a spoof about spaghetti crops in Switzerland. They showed women plucking spaghetti from trees, prompting calls from viewers to ask where they could purchase their very own spaghetti trees.
received thousands of letters from excited baseball fans, only to find out days later that the entire thing was made up by writer George Plimpton. 4. The British newspaper The Guardian published an article detailing a new vacation hot-spot called San Serriffe, a group of islands supposedly discovered off the coast of the Indian Ocean. It was a seven-page special report, and somehow people missed the fact that the islands were not only in the shape of semi-colons, but the names of the cities and towns were named after fonts and typefaces. The Guardian received calls all day from people wanting to know more information about this vacation spot.
5. In 1995, Discover magazine ran a story about a new species found in Antarctica, curiously named the “hotheaded naked ice borers.” They were described as similar in appearance to a Contributed Photo mole, but with a plate An image from BBC’s 2008 April Fool’s Day joke, where they aired this on top of their heads video of a newly discovered flying penguin species. that became so hot, it allowed them to bore through the ice to apparently hunt for 2. The BBC caused another April Fool’s Day stir in 2008 penguins. The article generated more letters than Discover had when they reported on their series “Miracles of Discovery” ever received about any article up to that point, according to that they had spotted a new species of flying penguins. They their Web site. claimed that these penguins flew to South America for the winter, and even went so far as to include a made-up video of If there is a moral from these examples, it should be this: flying penguins to accompany the story. if something is published on April Fool’s Day and it sounds unbelievable, it probably is. But as people continue to be fooled 3. Sports Illustrated published an article in its 1985 issue, year after year by fake press, this is our encouragement to you chronicling the story of a pitcher named Sidd Finch, who to pull a prank on whoever you can. Because they will probably could throw a 168-mph fastball. A record-breaking pitch, Finch fall for it. was also reported to have never played a game of baseball but learned the art of pitching from a Tibetan monk. The magazine
The Right Bite
a review of restaurants in and around Fairfield
Bangalore — 1342 Kings Highway Cutoff, Fairfield
By Amber Nowak Staff Writer There comes a time in every university student’s life when the usual diet of omelets and chicken Caesar wraps just isn’t eliciting the euphoric response that college cuisine should. When this moment hits you, Bangalore is your answer to spicing things up. Located just off Post Road on King’s Highway, within walking distance from CVS and Señor Salsa, this Zagat rated Restaurant and Bar specializes in Indian Cuisine. Many Fairfield students may be unfamiliar with Indian food, so it is important to note that not all Indian food is spicy. In general, extremely hot dishes are indicated as such on the menu. Indian food is very saucy and flavorful. Appetizers and side dishes are similar to Mediterranean cuisine — lots of chick peas and yogurt. The staff is very agreeable and accommodating and always willing to answer any questions for you.
The best way to order is to split one meal Whatever you chose to order for lunch or dinner here, and an order of bread between two people, definitely make sure to have lassi. This delicious yogurtbecause the proportions are perfect for this. If a based drink tastes like a very smooth, light, milkshake and larger party is present, ordering an appetizer is will also subdue a piquant dish. The mango-flavored lassi a good idea. is particularly tasty, but there are other options, like plain For a more subdued but tasty flavor, try the or rose-flavored. kemma samosa as an appetizer. These are like Bangalore is a high-end restaurant with a gorcrispy dumplings (more similar to an empanada) filled geous interior, perfect for a birthday date or night out with with minced lamb and green peas. the ladies. If, however, it is a more casual eating experience An entree like chicken madras, which is you seek, take out is always a great option. The best spicy chicken with mustard seeds, dry red thing about Bangalore is its free delivery. chilies, coconut and onion sauce, has Bangalore is open the same texture as a stew. An adseven days a week. ditional pot of rice comes with the Lunch is from 11:45 ato meal, which you would mix together 2:30 on Monday through at will. Thursday, and 12 to 3 Friday, Saturday There is a great selection of and Sunday. Dinner is from 5 to 10 vegetarian appetizers, entree, soups, Monday through Thursday, 5 to 10:30 salads and side dishes. Thus, this is a Friday and Saturday, and 5 to 10 on great choice for vegans and their carnivoSundays. rous friends to dine together in harmony. Amber Nowak/ The restaurant is a bit pricey, but Bangalore offers a wide selection of breads The Mirror totally worth it and manageable if including a variety of naan with different Delicious chicken madras. shared. toppings such as garlic, cottage cheese and fruits with nuts.
Advertisement
Project Pierre Toussaint must reopen…now. Sadly, the Fairfield University community has been sending a disrespectful message to the people of Haiti: “If your children report that they are being sexually abused by one of us, we will abandon you.” The Jesuits taught me that the service of my faith must include the promotion of justice. Project Pierre Toussaint’s school and drop-in center served the basic needs of hungry, homeless, street kids. We must go to Haiti now to show that we are in communion with the pain and suffering of the victims. We must go to Haiti now to work in “konbit” with our Haitian brothers and sisters to reopen the school. In Haitian Creole, a konbit is a traditional Haitian method of working together to till your friends’ fields as well as your own - a cooperative effort.” Paul Kendrick, ‘72
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Arts & Entertainment
Page 15
iPick American Idol Edition By Jennifer Fiorillo Staff Writer
Song: Heartless Artist: Kris Allen
During each season of the hit reality television show American Idol, there is always that one contestant who stands out among the others and who will be remembered in years to come. As an avid Idol fan myself, I have decided to share my top five favorite songs and performances from the show’s last eight seasons.
On the night that would determine who would make it to the season eight finale, Kris Allen — like the many other contestants who had come before him — found the opportunity in Kanye West’s “Heartless” to take a wellknown song and change it to fit his own unique style. While I don’t mean any disrespect to Kanye, Allen’s version knocks his completely out of the water. With this performance, which featured the singer on guitar, performing a soft rock rendition of the song, Allen proved without any doubt, that he deserved to win.
Song: Independence Day Artist: Carrie Underwood
Song: You Give Love A Bad Name Artist: Blake Lewis
As one of the top 10 remaining finalists on the show’s fourth season, Carrie Underwood sang this Martina McBride hit. When I think back to all of her performances, her rendition of “Independence Day” is always the first one that comes to mind and it is one of my all-time favorite songs of hers. Underwood proved that she was a force to be reckoned with when she was dubbed the night’s best vocalist and received rave reviews from all three judges. To me, it was no surprise when she was named the winner of American Idol Season Four.
Blake Lewis, most commonly remembered as “the beat boxer,” entertained both the live and home audiences by putting a new spin on a well-known, popular song each week. When Bon Jovi guest-starred on the show, Lewis earned his spot in American Idol history with his performance of “You Give A Love Bad Name.” With a strategic mixture of beat boxing and singing, Lewis amazingly transformed this classic rock hit into a modern-day song.
Mikaela Tierney/The Mirror
Song: Takin’ It To The Streets Artist: Taylor Hicks When I was first introduced to Taylor Hicks (Season Five), I never could have imagined that this quirky singer from Alabama — with his oldfashioned style and funny dance moves — would come out victorious over early frontrunner Katharine McPhee. During the last week of the semifinals, Hicks earned his spot as one of the season’s top twelve finalists when he sang “Takin’ It To The Streets”, a Doobie Brother’s classic. Although I was not a Taylor Hicks fan from the beginning, by the finale, I had been successfully converted to the “Soul Patrol”.
Song: Always Be My Baby Artist: David Cook My opinion of David Cook changed on the night when the top seven finalists performed the music of Mariah Carey. While most fans of the season would consider his rendition of “Billie Jean” to be his best performance, I disagree. David Cook sang “Always Be My Baby” and had successfully turned this upbeat, female pop song into a toned down, rock classic. While I have always loved Carey’s version of this song, Cook’s own rendition is my new favorite.
‘Twenties Girl’ Worth Twenty Bucks By Rosemary O’connor Staff writer Have you ever felt like you were born in the wrong decade? You find you have old-fashioned opinions, research the time in which you should have been born and sigh over the costumes in movies from that time. No, of course I don’t do this. Lara Lighton, the principle character in the novel ‘Twenties Girl,’ doesn’t subscribe to this either. Yet in Sophie Kinsella’s hilarious latest book, Lara finds herself engaged in such behavior and many other crazy escapades — all to appease the ghost of her 105-year-old great-aunt. A haunting is certainly the last thing Lara needs. With her best friend and business partner gallivanting off to god-knows-where and leaving Lara to salvage their floundering company on her own, Lara really can’t handle the supernatural intrusion. Not to mention she is also teetering on the precipice of financial ruin and heartbreak. Great-aunt Sadie, who reached her prime in the Roaring Twenties but recently passed away in a nursing home, has plans for her grandniece. Estranged from each other in life, Sadie insists in death that she will pester Lara for the rest of her days unless the two of them can locate her dragonfly necklace.
And so the unlikely duo sets out on an epic quest to locate the necklace and thus, let Sadie’s soul rest in peace. Along the way, they naturally have many a verbal battle, learn each other’s deep, dark secrets and work on Lara’s love life. Though they profess to loathe each other throughout most of the novel, by the conclusion they realize how close they have actually become. Lara also comes to value Sadie’s life and decade, and eventually gives her aunt’s plight and mission her full attention. As is typical of all Kinsella novels, the protagonist is an opinionated female in her twenties who is, regrettably, a tad immature. This initially turned me off to her popular Shopaholic series. It felt like I was inside the mind of a middle school girl rather than someone who had already completed college. Lara in ‘Twenties Girl’ still fits this prototype, but is more sophisticated. She has a more extensive vocabulary, and though she does do some wild things, she is not as annoying as other Kinsella characters. The mixture of the early twentieth century with contemporary culture adds much more flavor to the story. Rather than just taking the reader through the life and trials of a modern woman as so many trashy books these days do, this novel interlaces history with modernity, giving the book much more richness and depth.
The recent paperback release justifies shelling out the twenty dollars on the novel. ‘Twenties Girl’ makes for a fun-filled, quick read that would be a perfect Easter break activity.
Contributed Photo
Advertisement
Upcoming Events
1. Extreme BowlinG - Thursday, April 8th Buses leave Alumni Hall @ 9PM 2. New FUSA Logo Unveiling - Friday, April 9th @ 3:30PM (BCC LL) 3. Late Night @ the Stag - Friday, April 9th @ 10PM 4. Sophomore “Half-Way There” Cruise - Saturday, April 10, 2010
March
FUSA presents coming events
Diversity
“Diversity, it’s not stupidity, it’s REALITY!” Kickoff Event April 12th @ 6:30 PM (BCC LL) Free Food, Performances, Testimonials from students, motivational presentation
FUSA Student Leader Scholarship
Peer Advising Fair
The scholarship is open to all freshmen, sophomore, and junior students.
Nervous about registration? Don’t be!
The scholarship will be awarded to an undergraduate student in the Class of 2011, 2012, or 2013 who shows commitment to Fairfield University and its Jesuit ideals through academic integrity, civic engagement, and personal growth. Applications are available BCC 212 or outside of the FUSA office. All applications are due by Wednesday, March 31st at 3pm.
Your peers are here to help. Wednesday, April 7th 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM BCC Dining Room
FUSA: THE OFFICIAL STUDENT GOVERNMENT OF FAIRFIELD UNIVERSITY BY THE STUDENTS, FOR THE STUDENTS
Campus Heroes Know a campus hero? Nominate them!
Log on to www.fairfield.edu/fusa under the Miscellaneous tab to get a nomination form. Then return the completed form to BCC 212. Nominate NOW for the next group of Campus Heroes.
Become our fan on Facebook! 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
Online
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Check online every week for answers to our games.
Dear Dee,
Coffee Break | 17
fairfieldmirror.com
Easter break is almost upon us and I SO badly can’t wait to have a break. The problem though is my teachers are already loading on work that needs to be done when we are back to school on next Monday. I know the semester is quickly getting away, but when I go home for a holiday I spend a lot of time with my immediate family and visiting grandparents or other extended family. How can I enjoy my time at home when I know I have so much work to get done?
Dear Work Overload, By the time you read this column you will probably be packing up and getting ready to head home for Easter break. I hope you get to read this early enough though that it helps you enjoy your days at home. My first piece of advice is to plan ahead. This planning includes scheduling time for yourself into the break. I too have a lot of work to do over this week and I had originally hoped to get most of it done before I left on Wednesday night. Unfortunately, with midterms last week and projects still due this week, there has not been time to do that, so I am doing the next best thing. I am going to plan one full day to do work at home and then hopefully I will be able to enjoy the other days. I expect to sleep in on Thursday since that is not a luxury I have in my schedule this semester. After getting up (around 11 a.m.) I will quickly grab a healthy breakfast so my brain and body are prepared for a great day. I will make a list of what must be done for my first day of classes when I get back and then add to the list other projects, papers, etc that I would like to get a jump on. With the list I can mark off what I finished and feel good about my progress. Make sure you also take some “me time” every hour or so, even if it is just to go on
Thanks Dee,
Editor Tom Cleary » mirrorcoffeebreak@gmail.com
Send YOUR questions to deardee@ fairfieldmirror. com
Work Overload Facebook for a quick look, or to grab a cup of Joe in the kitchen. These breaks will make you feel invigorated. If you are really lucky, perhaps your mom might even deliver a snack to you. Set a time to be done for the day and if you must finish some additional work, plan on either Friday or Saturday to spend an hour or so to get it done. Once it is complete you can enjoy the rest of the weekend with your family and not have the work hanging over your head. It is important to enjoy the holiday celebrating with your family. Even Fairfield knows that or they would not give us five days to go home for this purpose. If you are totally overwhelmed, send your professor an email and see if you can work out a plan for getting the work in to them. Now, go schedule your work then enjoy your family. Oh, and have a piece of chocolate for me. Disclaimer: This column is for entertainment only. The author is a student, not a licensed therapist, and this column is not intended to take the place of professional advice. The views expressed are the author’s and are not necessarily shared by The Mirror or its staff.
Coffee Break
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Answer:
Page 18
Sports
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Mirror Sports 3x5
Tom Cleary Editor-in-Chief
Chris Simmons
Follow us at mirror3x5 now on Twitter! Don't be obsessed with your desires. A flute with no holes, is not a flute. A donut with no hole, is a Danish.
Person you'd like to interview you?
Sport you play the worst?
Last movie that made you cry?
What really makes me lose my cool?
If I was Coach K ...
Former Mirror Editor-inChief Ben Doody. He is the second coming of Bob Costas, especially with his ability to hold a Flip camera and ask questions.
Definitely not basketball, despite what Simmons says. Keith can attest to my "step on the foot and drive to the basket" move.
Friday Night Lights. What is Boobie Miles going to do without football?
When someone clogs the toilet (no names but they might be below me) and leaves it there without telling anyone.
I would become the new coach of the New Jersey Nets. Who wouldn't want to work for a 6'8, possibly insane, Russian billionaire?
Figure skating. Too easy to cheat. If there is any attempt to cheat, especially with my wife, who is a dirty, dirty, tramp, I am just gonna snap.
Ghost. When I hear Unchained Melody, I just get chills. (Close Runners-Up: From Justin to Kelly, Gettysburg and Pooty Tang)
When Tom's at The Grape and he goes to the dice move too much. Then again, that's really all he's got.
Any movie where Matthew McConaughey doesn't remove his shirt. I mean Hoosiers. Definitely Hoosiers ...
Lack of sleep. You don't want to know what goes on in the Mirror office at 3 a.m.
That's a no-brainer. Gus Johnson. On one condiKeith Connors tion: we do the interview General Manager from THE PARKING LOTTTT. Ha ha.
Managing Editor
Page 19
I'm awkward enough interviewing people. I'd like to try it the other way with Bill Rafferty, only if he describes me as having "onions."
I'm assuming golf since I've never played (although I play a mean mini golf). But I'm not sure anything is better than Tom's jump shot, or his tracking of a pop up.
I'd write him a letter. " Dear Coach, I love your hair. You run fast. Did you have a good relationship with your father? Me neither."
I'd bring back speedo guy. And lose to the Terps every year.
Want to be one of the select three in Mirror Sports 3x5 next year? Too bad. You can't. So there. But, in all seriousness, send a 100-word essay on the following topic: the Industrial Revolution changed the face of the modern novel forever. Discuss, citing specific examples its influence on the Yankees/Red Sox rivalry. Email your answer to 'advertising@fairfieldmirror.com' for a chance to be in next year's grid of goodness. A reality television show streamed live on our Web site will follow come April!
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010 Happy April Fool's Day
Sports
Page 20
Cooley Signs Record Deal By Simon Cowell Managing Editor After Siena head men's basketball coach Fran McCaffery accepted a lucrative offer to take the same position at Iowa and Iona coach Kevin Willard did the same leaving for Seton Hall, Fairfield coach Ed Cooley began making noise within the athletic department that he wanted comparable compensation, or he may leave for a better offer as well. And on Monday morning, it became official as Cooley inked a new deal, not with Hofstra or St. John's, but with Motown Records. "I've loved Ed ever since I first saw him perform," said Quincy Jones, who discovered a young Cooley headlining a Boston cocktail longue to help earn money while attending Stonehill College. "He had the sultry moves of a man half his size and his voice ... Oh, that voice. He's got that deep bass voice. It's like a cross between Barry White and Issac Hayes." Cooley joins Motown's stable of young talent such as Erykah Badu, Lindsay Lohan, Damian Marley and Nick Cannon. "I look forward to collaborating with the other talents Motown has signed through the years," said Cooley. "Nick Cannon has been a personal favorite of mine ever since I saw Roll Bounce. Man, if we could hook up with Bow Wow too ... That would just be a career highlight for me." Athletic Director Gene Doris wished Cooley luck in a statement released to the press. "We wish Ed success in all his future endeavors, but we will continue to strive to produce a top basketball program," he said. Fairfield needs to move quickly as it will have to replace it's entire staff since Cooley is taking his assistants with him as well. Associate head coach Bob Simon will become Cooley's top roadie while the others will become backup dancers and singers. "Okay, what I do is make sure everyone's got their gear on, and I cue their guitars, and I bring 'em out onstage and I start the mikes and make sure the scarves are always in the
right place and then, the most important thing — I gotta do a sound check," said Simon. "'Check. Check. Check 1. Sibilance. Sibilance. Check. Check. Check 2. Sibilance. Sibilance.' And that's pretty much what I do." Jones complimented that decision, saying that Cooley's assistants could use his career as their own launching pad. "That one cat — Carmen Maciariello — he's got that Italian thing going for him," said Jones. "Personally, I'm not a fan of the 'Grease Lightning' look, but it seems to work for him." Financial terms were not disclosed for Cooley's new deal, but sources have speculated that he could command upwards of $1 million per record. "Whatever. I'm just downloading it all for free anyway. I've got my ways," said senior Mike Evanovich. "I've heard Coach signing in the locker room beContributed by Richard Penniman fore though. It sent chills down Men's basketball coach Ed Cooley left the Stags to sign a record deal with Motown my back. And normally only records. His first album cover was leaked to The Mirror early this week. Celine Dion does that to me." Cooley's crossover has been compared in many quarters to Prince's surprising decision to Cooley's music has already been featured on VH1's move from the recording industry to professional basketball. 'Scott Baio is 46 & Pregnant,' but he said he needs sometime "That showed me never judge a book by its cover. Prince to complete his first album after years of coaching basketball. could really ball," said Charlie Murphy, an expert on basket"I can't wait to finally put the golden pipes to work," said ball and music crossover. "I'm expecting the same success Cooley. "Also, I'm pleased to announce that in cooperation from Cooley." with Motown records, I will be releasing my own brand of Recording industry insiders expect Cooley's first album Jheri curl activator — Cooley's Curls." to be released in early November.
Sports
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010 Baseball
Stags Race into MAAC Play
Senior pitcher Rob Gariano new career wins leader, Stags drop two against St. Peter's
Peter Caty/The Mirror
Stags senior Bill Rafferty runs the bases. By Ivey Speight Staff Writer There’s a new all-time strikeout king at Fairfield University and his name is Rob Gariano. The two time MAAC all-first team recipient will now officialy go into the Fairfield history books. The senior surpassed Keefe Catos’ record of 239 K’s set over 30 years ago by fanning St. Peter’s Mike Pearson in the eighth inning of the first game
Senior-laden Stags Take Aim at MAAC Title
of Saturday’s MAAC doubleheader. Unfortunately he also surrendered a three run homer in the same inning that put the Peacocks in front to stay. He allowed six runs on eleven hits in the defeat and remains winless on the year supporting a 0-3 record. The Stags dropped their first conference game of the 2010 season, 7-5. After erupting for 24 runs against the University of Hartford, only some of the Stags stayed on their hitting
ways, namely Marco Garmella who collected two hits with 3 RBIs and the rookie Anthony Hajjar who had his second straight three hit performance. This marks the first time that the Stags dropped their conference opener since 2005. But the Stags have sure shown that a strong start is worthless without a strong finish. Last year the Stags swept the Siena Saints to open their MAAC slate of games only to finish the year 10-14 and losers of 8 out of their final 11 games and missed yet another MAAC tournament. Fairfield got back on the winning track in the second game. Led by solid pitching performances by Sam Robertson and freshmen Mark Bordonaro, the Stags edged the peacocks 3-2. Robertson scattered two hits over nearly 6 innings of work and only relinquished two unearned runs. The Stags were led by their offense leader, Tucker Nathans who drove in a run in the win. Bordonaro remains perfect in his rookie campaign with a 4-0 record. The Stags looked to take the series in the rubber game but the bats of St. Peters proved too much as they exploded for 11 runs and downed the Stags 11-7. Gavin McCullough picked up his second straight loss of the season as he struggled through 4.1 innings giving up six earned runs on 10 hits. Nathans and Bill Rafferty both racked up 2 hits in the losing effort. Fairfield enjoyed a measure of success against St. Peters in the last 2 years combining for a 5-1 record. The Stags have lost the season series to the Peacock, who finished in eight place in the MAAC a season ago for the first time since 2007. The series drops the Stags to 8-11 on the year. Nathans won the MAAC Player of the Week Award on Monday after hitting .500 (11-for-22) this past week in five games, driving in 13 runs , including a school record nine against Hartford. Nathans is hitting .308 with a team-high 19 RBi this season.
Softball
By Tom Cleary Editor in Chief With an 11-13 record at the midway point of the non-conference schedule, the women's softball team has endured its fair share of challenges, but have also prepared themselves well for a MAAC Tournament run. With seven seniors on the squad, Fairfield was picked as the cofavorite to win the league this season. In the first three years the seniors played at Fairfield, the Stags have finished in the top four of the MAAC twice, earning a trip to the tournament, but have never reached the championship game. "I think having seven seniors is great thing," head coach Julie Brzezinski said. "Before the season even starts, everyone knows what to do and what to expect. This team is already crisp and ready to go." In their final year at Fairfield, the group – Meghan Borst, Dani Gris-
Page 21
wold, Jen Gilbert, Jessica Stand, Fairfield University Sports Information Kristie Tri- Senior Kristie Trifiolis receives congratulations from Jessica Stand. fiolis, Jenna DiBernardo and pitcher, has hit .382 tory and she also has a and Allison Ritacco – has to lead the team and chance to reach the top hopes of achieving that Borst has a team-high three. goal. The journey to the 12 RBI. Ritacco leads It is not unusual for tournament begins on the team in home runs the Stags to struggle early April 10, when Fairfield with two and Trifiolis is on in the season against travels to Saint Peter's to tied with Griswold for tough competition. open the MAAC season. the team lead in doubles This year Fairfield has This year's tournament with seven. Junior losses to No. 19 North will be played May 13-16 pitcher Sarah Minice is Carolina (20-8), Stony in Buffalo. 5-9 with a 3.71 ERA in 18 Brook (13-8), Big East "The seniors want to appearances, including foe-St. John's (11-14) and make their mark on the 14 starts. Southern Illinois (21program, and a MAAC Borst and Trifiolis 11). Fairfield does have championship would have a chance to leave victories over Big East be the ultimate mark," a mark not only with a opponents South Florida Brzezinski said. "With championship victory, (15-16) and Pittsburgh seven seniors, their play but also in the record (13-13). and leadership will be books. Borst currently "I know we take our vital for us to accomplish has 81 career RBI, which bumps early in the seaour goal. Not only do we places her eighth all son, but our kids always expect a lot from them, time. There is a strong bounce back," Brzezinski they expect a lot from possibility that she will said. "They know that themselves as well." finish the season within the MAAC tournament So far this season the the top four RBI producand championship is our seniors have put Fairfield ers in school history. ultimate goal and that in strong position to Trifiolis has 33 career the early challenge of our reach the tournament. doubles, tying her for schedule prepares them Griswold, an outfielder fifth place in school hisfor that goal."
Tennis
A Stags Sweep Both squads open MAAC play with two victories, Berthod becomes men's career wins leader, Rys earns two victories for women By Tom Cleary Editor in Chief Throughout three-plus seasons, seniors Ryan Berthod and Paulina Rys have respectively led the men's and women's tennis squads, forming one of the more dynamic duos to play at Fairfield at one time. On Saturday, Berthod solidified himself in Fairfield's record books, passing former teammate Chip Palumbo '09 to earn the Stags all-time wins record (127 victories). Berthod For her part, Rys is already the career wins record for the women, with 135 victories. Fellow senior Dana Postupack has 129 career Rys victories, the second most in school history. The men's team (7-5, 3-0 MAAC) defeated Siena, Loyola and Rider, sweeping all three teams 7-0. In addition to Berthod, the men had wins from Dan Sauter, Joe Michalisin, Rob Ferrante, Bob Kelly and Erik Kremheller.
While Berthod's record should stand for awhile, it might not be long before Michalisin, a sophomore, already has 38 career victories, including a single season record of 27 last year. Kremheller, a freshman, has 17 singles wins this season to lead the team. Berthod and Sauter, also a sophomore, have led the doubles teams with a 12-6 record together. The women's squad also won its first three MAAC games, also defeating Siena (7-0), Loyola (5-2) and Rider (7-0). Rys led the way for Fairfield with three victories, while Postupack had two wins. Rys is 15-7 this season, while junior Alyssa Ruiz is 15-5. Ruiz has 42 singles wins in her career, which is third all time at Fairfield. Postupack is 10-12, but has played in the first singles position for most of the year. Senior Michaela Cerrone has teamed with Meghan Sullivan for an 8-2 record. Fellow senior Gretchen Amberg is 2-3 in singles, but 5-0 with Postupack in doubles and has 12 total doubles victories. The women are the defending MAAC Champions and face the toughest test of its season on April 14 at Marist, picked No. 2 in the pre-season poll. The men were picked to finish second in the poll behind Marist and face the Red Foxes on April 13. Both teams play at home against Saint Peter's in their next MAAC matchup on April 10.
Sports
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Page 22
Men's Lacrosse
He said it...
"I'm certainly not trying to jinx him, but right now Joe Marra is
Marra, No. 20 Stags Grab National Attention After Weekend Dominance By Keith Connors General Manager
having an All-American year." -Head coach Andy Copelan on the play of his goalkeeper, senior Joe Marra, following the Stags' dominant 14-5 win against Hobart.
Game of the week
Loyola
April 10, 1 p.m.
In arguably the biggest game of the season, the Stags welcome ECAC rival No. 11 Loyola (Md.) to Alumni Field in a battle for first in the conference.
ECAC standings Team
Overall Conf.
Loyola 5-2 3-0 Fairfield 5-2 2-0 Ohio St. 5-4 1-1 Quinnipiac 4-2 1-2 Denver 5-4 0-0 Bellarmine 6-3 0-1 Air Force 1-6 0-1 Hobart 2-5 0-2
Exhausted. That’s probably the best way to describe head coach Andy Copelan and his goalkeeper, senior Joe Marra, as they sat down in the depths of the Walsh Athletic Center and finally got a chance to exhale in the aftermath of the Stags’ dominant 14-5 victory against Hobart, the team’s third consecutive win and by far its most impressive outing of the season. Their fatigue, however, was more than just the product of a job well done. It’s the result of the work of two key figures of a team just beginning to surface as one of the nation’s up-and-coming programs. The lacrosse scene took notice, as the Stags ranked No. 20 in the most recent InsideLacrosse Media Poll. "Anytime you can get a 14-5 victory, it's a pretty solid win," Copelan said. "I thought playing good offense really lent itself to playing good defense." Offensively, the Stags looked every bit the team that upset Notre Dame, which was ranked third nationally at the time, and Ohio State, one of the stronger teams in the ECAC in recent memory. They also looked extremely balanced – in addition to from sophomore attackman John Snellman’s three-goal effort, eleven other offensive players tallied a point in the victory. Not bad, considering that the Stags were facing Hobart goalkeeper Max Silberlicht, a preseason All-American and candidate for the Tewaaraton Trophy, awarded to the best player in the nation. The Statesmen captain was pulled in the second period after allowing his seventh goal just days after he tallied 23-saves against No. 2 Syracuse. Still, while offense helped the Stags upended Sliberlicht and Hobart to extend their winning streak, the bigger trend that
Welcome MAAC Game of the Week
@ Canisius
April 9, 2010 — 7 p.m. Fairfield, the defending MAAC Champions open up the season at Canisius. The Stags were picked to win the conference again, while the Golden Griffs were picked to finish second.
MAAC standings Team
Fairfield Siena Canisius Iona Marist Niagara Manhattan
Overall Conf.
5-3 0-0 4-4 0-0 5-4 0-0 3-6 0-0 2-5 0-0 1-4 0-0 1-6 0-0
Peter Caty/The Mirror
Andy Copelan and the Fairfield Stags used a dominant performance against Hobart to move into the national spotlight and the No. 20 ranking in the country. has emerged from Fairfield’s recent string of success is easy to see: defense and discipline. Defensively, the Stags limited an offense that had just scored eight goals in an overtime loss to the Orange to just five. Fairfield dominated ground balls, 42-26, much of which came as a result of junior defenseman Sean Bannon's strong play. Bannon, who was named the ECAC Defensive Player of the Week, totalled ten ground balls in two games this week. Bannon's compliments, junior Brendan McTague and sophomore Drew Palmer, also had strong weeks, as evident in the fact that the team only allowed 13 goals this week, both of which came against two of the stronger programs in the country. Still, much of the team’s defensive success all comes back to Marra. "Defensively, we pitched a shutout in the first half, and that's largely due to this guy sitting right next to me," Copelan said as
he turned toward Marra after the game. " For the senior, it was more than just another impressive outing in his renaissance season. Exactly two weeks from the day of his career-high 17-save effort against the Irish and All-American goalkeeper Scott Rodgers, the senior again outplayed one of the nation’s best in Silberlicht. “Joe's has been fantastic,” Copelan said. “I'm certainly not trying to jinx him, but right now Joe Marra is having an AllAmerican year." However, with an upcoming showdown against ECAC rival Loyola (Md.) on the horizon and a trip to College Park to play Maryland, Coplean’s former employer, coming later in the month, the Stags know that the greatest challenges still lie ahead. "The MO with Fairfield in the past has been strong starts and not so strong finishes," Copelan said. "That's something that we're definitely aware of and working to change this season."
Women's Lacrosse
Stags look towards last season in quest to rebound from loss to UNH with upcoming MAAC schedule By Keith Connors General Manager
A road trip. An out-of-conference game against a top opponent. A hostile crowd. None of the above is conducive to any sort of positives, no less a victory. All of the above caused the Stags to suffer its third loss of the season and second in a pair of games, falling to New Hampshire, 14-10. Despite the loss, a feverish second-half comeback and a pair of goals from junior Kristen Coleman and fifth-year senior Caitlin Young means that the team is probably viewing the setback to the Wildcats as a definite learning experience for the team and its run-and-gun offense. Moreover, it can reflect on its impressive out-of-conference success this spring, highlighted by victories against in-state rivals Yale and Sacred Heart, and now begin to turn its attention toward the team’s ultimate goal: its third consecutive Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Regular Season Championship and another berth in the NCAA Tournament. Following the team’s final two out-ofconferences against St. Mary’s and Holy Cross, the team begins its conference schedule with a trip to Buffalo and a weekend slate against Canisius and Niagara.
And if the early-season success, and an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. last year’s banner season, is any indication, In previous years, the winner advanced head coach Mike Waldvogel’s team may not to a play-in game against another conferlook back from here forward. ence champion. Direct entry is based on a At nearly the same date a season ago, conference's RPI. the Stags lost to Dartmouth, which ranked Fairfield won the MAAC last season sixteenth in the nation at the time in the and defeated Sacred Heart in the play-in USILA rankings. game, but lost 10-8 to Penn in the NCAA The team’s next game correlated with Tournament. the outset of conference play, not to menFairfield was tabbed as the MAAC tion a stretch in which the Stags won eleven favorite in the coaches poll this season. consecutive games en route to a regularChris Simmons contributed to this season MAAC Championship and a thrilling article. 16-10 victory against Sacred Heart that clinched the first appearance in the NCAA Tournament in program history. More impressive was the level of dominance displayed in the stretch. Fairfield totaled at least sixteen goals in the streak, and only twice did the opposition reach double-digit goals. This season, Fairfield has played a competitive schedule, losing three games to James Madison, Lehigh and New Hampshire by a combined six goals. Both JMU and NHU have been nationally ranked this season and Lehigh is currently 8-1. After two more nonconference games, Fairfield will start MAAC ConFairfield Sports Information ference play. For the first time since Junior Kristen Coleman and the Stags fell 14-10 to New Hampshire on Sunday afternoon. 2003, the MAAC champion will receive
The Mirror | Week of March 31, 2010
Sports
Page 23
Fairfield Athletics Editor: Keith Connors
November 13, 2008
www.fairfieldmirror.com
A Coaches' World Mired in mediocrity and looking for answers, the Fairfield Athletic Department discovered that the missing links weren't problems on the court or in the field. They were opportunities for change on the bench.
Photos by Jon Ollwerther (left) and Peter Caty (right)/The Mirror
By Keith Connors General Manager
Looking Back, Looking Forward It’s a brisk summer afternoon, the type that feels ripped from Fairfield admissions brochure. A dapper man walks slowly across campus, thinking, watching, listening. After a few moments in the cool of the shade that lies in the shadows of the Barone Campus Center, he takes a takes a brief glance at the crowd, takes a sip of water and steps to the podium. “I want to welcome you all to Fairfield University,” he says. “And I want to tell you that you, this class … you’re a part of a new era in this school’s history, and I hope you’re as excited as I am.” The actor in this scene was Ed Cooley, the newly ordained head coach of the men’s basketball team, who had recently been given the blessing of athletic director Gene Doris and his daunting task: revive a program that had just suffered a 9-19 season and was still reeling from the wounds of a 2003 NCAA investigation of the school’s recruiting practices under Tim O’Toole, his predecessor. His words, at the moment, in that context, seemed nothing short of a public relations stunt, the same sort of coachspeak reserved for situations of pomp and circumstance. Four years later, however, as the class he addressed on that summer morning prepares to enter the workforce — and Cooley prepares to enter next season as the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference’s (MAAC) most prominent, and perhaps most successful, head coach — his words seem telling, intriguing, borderline prophetic. In the grand scheme of athletics, it may well be that Cooley was the forerunner of a bigger change in the school’s athletic department. Four years ago, the University athletic department, in general, was an afterthought in many of the sports that now enjoy unparalleled success and garner national attention. Four years ago, women’s basketball suffered its fifth consecutive losing season. In that same span, the Stags finished with a .500 record or worse in conference play or worse and never won a MAAC Tournament game. Four years ago, women’s lacrosse was searching for answers after its second consecutive 4-12 season and a 2-5 conference record, a far cry from the team’s successes at the turn of the decade, highlighted in three regular-season MAAC Championships in a span of three seasons. Four years ago, men’s lacrosse aimed to leverage a share of the GWLL championship and its first trip to the NCAA Tournament in school history into a successful entry into the ECAC, one of the sport’s preeminent conferences. Of all the predicaments, Cooley’s task, one that he publicly embraced on that summer afternoon, might’ve been the most daunting of all. Nineteen losses a year earlier. A roster depleted by graduating seniors and scholarship restrictions. Five one-and-done MAAC Tournament showings under O'Toole, the glory of the school’s miracle run to the conference championship in 1997 faded from memory. Moreover, Cooley knew the task was greater than just defense and rebounding. School spirit, vibes on campus and
team culture, in many ways, needed a renovation. But that was four year’s ago.
Four years later It is difficult to claim that Cooley’s hire was a watershed, a defining moment for the athletic program that ushered in a new era of success. After all, men’s basketball had some success under O’Toole, who led the team to a NIT berth in 2003. Men’s lacrosse became one of the most popular sports on campus, flourishing under the direction of former head coach Ted Spencer, who nurtured the program from its days as a fledgling club sport to a bonafide national presence. Still, with the grace of hindsight, it’s clear that the school’s athletic department needed a shot of life. That revival, in many respects, began with Cooley and the accomplishments he’s achieved since his first public appearance on campus — his exploits on the court — a pair of seven-game win streaks in his first and second seasons as coach, the program’s longest in twenty years; three wins in the MAAC Tournament in two seasons; a near overtime upset of heavily favored Siena, the two-time defending champion, on its own court in overtime this past March; and a 27-point second half comeback against George Mason, the largest comeback in NCAA postseason history. “He’s one of the best coaches I’ve ever coached against,” said former Siena head coach Fran McCaffery in the aftermath of this season’s MAAC Tournament, a sound bite all too familiar in postgame press conferences of games around the conference. Still, to limit Cooley’s impact to just his wins and losses on the court is a tremendous understatement, as anyone in the know can attest. “The quality of athlete that we’re able to recruit now … a Yorel Hawkins or a Warren Edney, those are the type of athletes that just wouldn’t come to Fairfield in the past,” Athletic Director Gene Doris told a sports reporting class prior to the 2009 season, ironic given that Cooley's done all of his winning with two of his best athletes injured (for now). Doris's two-fold reasoning? For one, the draw of playing at the Arena at Harbor Yard, one of the best mid-major facilities in the Northeast. The other? Ed Cooley.
A collective change. Cooley, though, was not just an outlier, but rather the first in a series of coaching changes made by Doris in the past four years that has not only changed the face of the athletic department, but also laid the foundation for a newfound, sustainable formula for success rooted in — you guessed it — the head coach. The caveat in this approach, and the primary reason it serves as a fascinating subject, is that Doris’ moves were not so much rapid and resounding so much as very debatable and divisive. Consider women’s basketball, which less than a month ago reached the MAAC Championship game for the first time in nine seasons. In the depths of the Times-Union Center, just moments after the game, Marist head coach Brian Giorgis addressed the media and began with words directed not at his players, but at
a fellow coach. “(My assistant coach) says when she retires she’s going to write a book on all Joe Frager’s sets,” said Giorgis. “He’s got a zillion of them. I’m actually more impressed that his kids remember all of them.” Frager, though, has done more than impress the MAAC with his his cerebral, complex offensive sets. He has won. In addition to a 20-win season in his first as head coach, Frager already boasts a postseason tournament victory, a MAAC Championship game appearance and midseason revival for the ages. It seems matter-of-fact to say now that Frager is the future for Fairfield, but it was quite a divisive issue to replace former head coach Dianne Nolan, who currently serves as an assistant at Yale and stepped aside in 2007 following 28 years as the program’s head coach, as long a tenure as any University employee in the school history. The safe choice might’ve been to permit Nolan to continue to coach “her baby” until retirement. The bold choice was to part ways and search for a replacement, which Doris found in the form a Division-II standout that won a national championship with Southern Connecticut State in 2007. The rest is history.
Beyond Basketball It took a second. Hard to blame him. After all, his freshman year was as bad as bad gets. In his freshman season, men's lacrosse, one of the hallmark programs of Fairfield Athletics with a sterling tradition under previous head coach Ted Spencer, reached a new low a 4-9 overall record and season-ending slump that concluded with nine losses in the team’s final ten games. But after a second to reflect, he found the right words for the second win of his junior year. "I think for the program it was one of the biggest wins we've had here," defenseman Sean Bannon said in regards to the team's win over No. 3 Notre Dame . "And the credit has to go to our coaches," he added. In just two short seasons as head coach, head coach Andy Copelan has the Stags looking like a team on the brink of national prominence. In his first season, the Stags finished third in the conference, the team's highest finish. This year looks like more than just an encore; it seems like an exclamation. Again, the decision to turn to Copelan, a wunderkind at only 33-years-old, was far from a no-brainer. His predecessor, much like Nolan and women's basketball, was the face and father of the program, and was only three seasons removed from a conference championship in the GWLL. The safe move was to retain Spencer and hope for a revival. Doris, again, opted for the bold. Cooley, Copelan and Frager aren't the only ones. Jim O'Brien and the women's soccer team has new standing as a perennial MAAC powerhouse. Mike Waldvogel and women's lacrosse's have newfound dominance. John Sagnelli. Ed Paige. David Patterson. New faces abound in nearly every sport in Fairfield Athletics. So far, seems like a good thing..
Sports | 24
Online New and improved sports blog. Online only coverage. Week of March 31, 2010
fairfieldmirror.com
Sports editors Keith Connors, Tom Cleary, Chris Simmons Âť sports@fairfieldmirror.com
Making a Statement Sophomore John Snellman and the men's lacrosse team stomped Hobart Statesmen 14-5 and earned the No. 20 ranking in the nation. See story on p. 22
Peter Caty / The Mirror
InsideSPORTS:
A Coach's World, p. 23; Baseball, Softball and Tennis Enter MAAC Play, p. 21, Mirror 3x5, p. 19