FREE | Take one Week of Sept. 22, 2010 | Vol. 36, Iss 4
The
Mirror
fairfieldmirror.com
The Independent Student Newspaper of Fairfield University The Reflection of Fairfield
Increase in
Sex Crimes and
Thieves
Peter Caty/ The Mirror
By Gillien Murray contributing writer
Safe. It’s a word used often and it is often taken for granted. As the 2010 school year begins, both new and returning students flood campus with hopes of epic parties and acceptable grades. But are they thinking about how safe they are? Public Safety is. Every year, in accordance with state law, Public Safety conducts a uniform campus crime report for the previous calendar year. This report must be consistent with the FBI’s uniform crime reporting system. Assistant Director of Public Safety John Ritchie said, “We don’t think the numbers going up on the report are a direct result of more in-
cidents occurring, but of more incidents being reported.” Ritchie is referring to a rise in incidents in two of the ten crime categories: sexual offenses and larceny. The other eight crime categories include criminal homicide, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, arson and hate crimes. “Larceny is when there is no forced entry,” Ritchie explained. “These people are being invited in. This weekend alone we caught two student-aged men with an estimated $3000 worth of personal property in their vehicle.” On a college campus it is easy to get so caught up in throwing parties, being friendly and letting guests into your home that you don’t personally know. It is the nature of campus life, but Larceny | page 5
Dan Leitao/ The Mirror
Muslim Holiday In Campus Ministry By Sarah Hassan contributing writer
At a time when Muslims are faced with many challenges as a result of the Ground Zero mosque controversy, the EidAl-Fitr celebration and dinner held at Fairfield University is not only a testament to the increased diversity on campus, but a demonstration of the collaboration that still exists between people of different faiths. The event took place on Monday evening in the McGrath Commons and was hosted by the Muslim Student Association of Fairfield University that began in the spring semester of 2009.
The MSA began the event with an introductory lesson on the significance of this religious event to the Muslims, both on campus and all over the world. Eid-Al-Fitr, or the festival of the breaking of fast, happens at the end of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. During this month, Muslims abstain from food and water from sunrise to sunset and perfect their relationship with God through the offering of extra prayer and charity to the poor. This introduction was offered by Heba Yousif, the new Muslim Chaplain at Fairfield University. Yousif, a student at Hartford Seminary, is one of the many chaplains throughout the country who serves as advisors and representatives for the Muslims on college campuses, hospitals, prisons and
other settings. A Question & Answer session followed the lesson that allowed the audience to pose any questions they might have to a panel. “The event was a good opportunity to start a dialogue,” said Dr. Martin Nguyen, assistant professor of Islamic Studies in the Religious Studies department and one of the speakers in the panel. One of the questions posed was whether or not the Quran, which is the holy scripture of the Muslims, condoned the actions of the terrorists involved in the 9/11 attacks. Dr. Nguyen said that from an academic point-of-view, the Quran is a complex text that must be thoroughly examined and that any educated individual who does so will find
Eid-Al-Fitr | page 5
Inside This Issue
Beer-O-Nomics See P. 7
Fall Concert Preview See P. 11
Cheers and Boos IS Back! See P. 19
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
News
Page 2
Fairfield Safe From Bed Bugs, For Now By Meghan Gallucci Contributing Writer
Vanishing during the day, rising at nightfall for a taste of blood, the bed bug is a pocket-sized Robert Pattinson or Stephen Moyer. Over 15 universities including New York University, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, Boston University and the University of Florida have recently reported bed bug issues, according to ABC News. For some, there has also been the hefty paycheck to get the dorms clean. A New York City pest control center approximated the cost to exterminate dorms at $30,000.00. An Assistant Director for Residence Life at Fairfield, Charles Sousa, assures that he has not heard of any cases of bed bugs on campus. The University plans to work with an exterminator if a problem arises and in nearly all cases, the bill will be taken care of by the University. The cost of such a measure is not Fairfield’s focus, explains Sousa, “Our first priority is the students.” MyFoxDetroit and thedailystar.com found that universities would prefer to be proactive than pay. Mattresses were replaced at Michigan State University and Massachusetts’s Eastern Nazarene College, for example. Oakland University devoted the summer months to disinfect campus buildings. As did Hartwick College - in addition to developing a strategy should infestation arise; a similar tactic was taken at the State University of New York at Oneonta. To date, on the Fairfield University campus, there have been no reports of bed bugs, says Health Center Director Judith Weindling. Additionally, authorities from both Metro-North and Connecticut Rail Commuter Council told NewsTimes.com that they have not had any issues with commuters contracting bed bug bites en route. Students should still be vigilant. The name ‘bed’ bug is a misnomer; the creatures linger in cushions, bags, picture frames, books and even laptops in addition to the common mattress and box spring. They are travelers, attaching to items and people, moving wherever the host does and setting up posts along the way. The appearance of blood spots on bed sheets or a red, itchy irritation on the body may suggest parasitic visitors. Weindling advises students to use plastic bags to contain items while traveling, and to be sure to keep belongings and common living areas clean. The Center for Disease Control has warned that “Anyone who…shares living and sleeping quarters where other people have previously slept has an increased risk for being bitten and for spreading a bed bug infestation.” Some people do not experience a visible reaction, but for others it may be life-threatening and include insomnia and anxiety, reports the Center for Disease Control. If anyone thinks they may have been bitten by a bed bug, or suspects them on campus, the best thing to do is to go directly to the health center. The earlier the bugs are found, the easier it is to eradicate them.
Contributed Photo
Andoni Flores/ The Mirror
Silencing the Social Networks By Alexandria Hein News Editor Harrisburg University of Science and Technology in Pennsylvania has banned social networks such as Facebook and Twitter from campus. The week-long black out that began September 13 is an experiment designed to make students live a life without social networking. Reactions around campus were mixed as some students who could not handle the cut off reportedly left campus to use the Internet access at a local hotel. “We hit a nerve, and to me, that is proof that this is a set of technologies that has clearly impacted our lives and the way we live,” Provost Eric Darr told ABCNews. Vice President of Communications and Marking at Harrisburg, Steve Infanti told the media that the ban is intended to, “get students, staff and faculty to think about social media when they are not available.” Darr stressed that the ban on networks was not a punishment of some kind, but an academic exercise. Harrisburg University student Ashley Harris told NPR, “My biggest problem is not being able to find people because I use Facebook and Twitter to find people at school, to see where they’re at.”
When the experiment ends students will be required to hand in reflective essays about their experience without the networks. Darr told NPR, “Often there are behavior habits, ways we use technology that we may ourselves not even be able to articulate because we’re not aware of them.” Students who access the networks through smartphones or live off campus will not be affected by the experiment. The only source of communication that will be allowed electronically will be through the use of e-mail. Darr stated that the intent of the experiment is “to focus attention on what we view as an important set of technologies – social media.” The experiment will also address whether the outcomes of interactions between students, faculty and staff produce different results when they are face-to-face rather than electronically. Social Media critic Jaron Lanier spoke out against the experiment suggesting that it was too extreme. He would rather the university call for students to donate a penny every time they used a network, to “create awareness, they would be aware of how much they were doing.” Students at Fairfield University took the time to reflect on what would happen if a similiar experiment took place on campus. “I think that it’s a major communication tool at Fairfield and that it wouldn’t be a good idea,” said Nicole Nalbandian’11.
Longchamp & Vera vs. North Face By Devon Porrino Enterntainment Editor
Loading book after book into a bag that may be fashionable yet not very supportive is not just a concern that only affects elementary, middle and high school students anymore. The issue of a heavy backpack for students is a serious one, but is it all that common at the college level? “We don’t see it a lot on campus because I think it actually affects high school kids a lot more than college kids since high school kids have to carry backpacks through the entire day,” said Judith Weindling, Director of the Health Center at Fairfield University. Students who carry backpacks around campus may find the weight lighter, as opposed to in high school, because they are not carrying seven classes worth of material around. But does that mean that we should ditch the supportive backpacks? According to Weindling, we need the support to prevent future back injuries. “Backpacks are made to distribute the weight correctly, but most students swing them on one shoulder or they buy backpacks that don’t have enough support or padding,” said Weindling, “It’s the choice of the backpack and the way that you use it more than the fact that you are filling it up.” In grade school, walking to and from classes or from home to school with a heavy backpack not only hurt, but could also eventually lead to serious injury. A heavy backpack, which according to kidshealth.org is “20 percent of a child’s body weight,” can injure joints and muscles. It can also lead to severe back, neck and shoulder pain according to thedailyfairfield. com. So now that we pack our own bags for class everyday, whether it is a backpack or side bag, how are we doing in re-
gards to keeping the weight safe? “My backpack is a lot lighter now than it was in high school,” said Michelle Onofrio’11. “In high school you didn’t have enough time in between your seven classes to go back to your locker so you were carrying seven books throughout the entire day. Now, I may only have three classes a day, so I have time to drop off books,” she said. Onofrio chooses to use a backpack. Aside from the much Backpacks | page 5
Yuri Sendzimir/ The Mirror
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
News
Page 3
Exploring Your Options: Attend the Study Abroad Information Session By Charlotte Adinolfi Assistant News Editor
This Thursday, Sept. 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Study Abroad Office will be hosting the Study Abroad Information Fair in the Lower Level of the Barone Campus Center. “I believe all mature and responsible students who have a passion to learn more and travel should study abroad,” Program Coordinator of the Study Abroad Office, Ajsha Bajcinca said. Students are invited to come learn about the various study abroad opportunities Fairfield has to offer. Some of the options include Nicaragua, France, Italy, Ireland, Australia and many others. Each study abroad program will have an information table with various take home items that will allow students to keep the information on where they may wish to study. Bajcinca said that most of Fairfield’s students choose to study abroad in Italy, Spain and Australia. “We have a wonderful program in Managua, Nicaragua, Syracuse, Italy, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania among many others,” Bajcinca said. She went on to say that everyone, students, faculty and staff, should attend the fair since it is a good opportunity to learn more about what Fairfield has to offer its students. At the event, there will be students who have studied abroad to tell prospective travelers about their experiences. They will help in the process of gaining more knowledge of where students may want to go. Bajcinca said that there will be the Study Abroad Office staff, international students, representatives from Fairfield’s approved affiliated programs along with the returning study abroad students. A broader base of knowledge on deadlines, procedures and contacts will be provided as well. Students who attend
The Royal Palace of Madrid, Spain. It is also known as the Palacio de Oriente the session will also have the chance to enter to win a $500 STA travel voucher. Freshmen, who attend, will receive First Year Experience Credit. Bajcinca said that the office encourages freshmen to come and start thinking about their study abroad options. If the fair does not have what you are looking for, Bajcinca said that students can call the Study Abroad Office at (203) 254-4332 and a peer advisor will be in touch with them. For more information about study abroad at Fair-
Annie Rooney/ The Mirror
field, visit www.fairfield.edu/studyabroad. Scholarships for programs are listed at http://www.fairfield.edu/academic/ aca_scholopps.html. Bajcinca said that she would advise students to look at all study abroad options before making a final decision. “Think about how this experience will make you stand out in today’s tough job market,” Bajcinca said. “Choose a destination that best matches your academic goals.”
Winks, Papyrus, Freshman Love: Fairfield Alumna Tells All By Janelle Cecco Contributing writer
Name: Meredith Clinton Bell Class of: 2006 Major: English with a concentration in Journalism Fairfield Alumna Meredith Clinton Bell seems to be living the life that everyone dreams of after graduating college. She married her Fairfield college sweetheart, lives in “The Big Apple,” and has a steady job. Meredith shares memories, advice and fun facts about her dreams becoming reality. And the root of this all is Fairfield University, of course. Janelle: Where are you from and where do you live now? Meredith: I am from Massachusetts but I am currently living in NYC with my husband that I met freshman year at FU! J: Where was your first job after college? M: My first job was at a start-up company called Wink International in New York City. We were an on-demand publishing company that created printed material from websites, both capabilities brochures and catalogs. I was the first editor they hired, so I paved the way for the editorial process at the company, which was great experience. Unfortunately, they went out of business. J: Have you changed career paths since then? M: I now work for a direct marketing ad agency, SGA Inc. I’ve worked here for over two years as a proofreader, and I’m transitioning into a brand new position that’s part
copywriter part researcher part whatever they need. My goal is to work totally on the creative side. Right now I’m still part proofreader/part creative. J: What was your most memorable moment at Fairfield University? M: Eek, this is a tough one. Graduation day was pretty memorable...everyone says that though, right? It was sort of like an “aha” moment. Like, ok, this is what I’ve worked for, for the past four years. Another thing that sticks out, though I don’t think I’d say it’s “most” memorable, was walking to Athena’s at one a.m. from campus in the middle of winter because we couldn’t get a cab! Probably one of the most satisfying meals I’ve ever had. J: If you had to choose one thing you miss about college, what would it be? M: The schedule! As much as I love not having homework any more, I miss having more free time during the 9-5 hours to get things done...and sleep. Don’t take that for granted, enjoy it now while you still can! J: If you could give advice to the students at Fairfield now, what would it be? M: Minor in a language. I took the required two semesters of Spanish, and I wish I’d gone through with the minor. I considered it, but opted out because I thought it would be too much work. Also, take more classes that are out of your comfort zone. Looking back, I miss the opportunities for discussion in classes that weren’t even in my major or minor.
M: I hands down regret not studying abroad the most. I gave myself excuses like, it’s easier to stay so I can get my requirements done and have more opportunity to take the classes I want. I didn’t want to miss anything, etc. I also didn’t have any other close friends that were going abroad, which made it easier to stay as well. Everyone says this, but college is the best time to do something like live in another country for an extended period of time! I’ve been on some great vacations since, but I always wish I experienced really living in another culture. Most people I’ve talked to have had amazing experiences in the study abroad program. J: Did the expectations that you had for your future after college come close to your present reality? M: I always wanted to work at a magazine after college, but then I realized that most editorial assistants don’t make enough money to live on! So that was a bit of a reality check. I realized I’d rather have enough to live on and live in Manhattan, and maybe one day I’ll cut back into the magazine world with experience that I gain up until that point. I never thought I’d work at a direct marketing agency, but I’m still not on a totally different track than I thought I’d be. I have a few goals in mind, and I can still get there. There have just been a few detours along the way. I married my college sweetheart, which was pretty much the plan all along, so that worked out. J: What is a fun fact about you that not that many people know?
J: What was your biggest regret in college? M: I love greeting cards. Papyrus is one of my
Photo Contributed By/Meredith Bell
favorite stores, and any excuse to send them out is ok with me! J: What are your plans for the future? M: I would like to start doing more freelance work on the side to keep my portfolio fresh. And at my full time job, I’m working towards becoming a copywriter full time, as I mentioned above. And beyond that, we’ll see what happens! I plan to be in New York City for at least a few more years, and who knows what the future will bring from there. One day I’d love to either be a creative director somewhere or be able to work freelance full time.
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
News
Page 4
Mirror Meetings 6:30 p.m.
Campus Crime Beat Tuesday, September 14
Saturday, September 18
Sunday, September 19
12:48 a.m. During a health inspection, RA found university property in a dorm room. Person was referred to judicial 8:23 p.m. Narcotics violation at Residence Hall. Arrest was made and person referred to judicial
1:56 a.m. Two nonstudents were charged with larceny of other students’ rooms 2:01 a.m. Disorderly conduct involving students was reported at Townhouses. They were referred to judicial 11:23 a.m. Several cars were towed from fire lane on Leeber Road 8:38 p.m. Broken window reported in Jogues. No suspects identified 11:37 p.m. Fight was reported at Townhouses and dispersed upon public safety’s arrival
12:15 a.m. Narcotics violation at residence hall. Those involved were referred to judicial
Wednesday, September 15 8:05 p.m. Vehicle was reported with a smashed windshield, believed to be caused by an errant softball
Monday, September 20 2:37 p.m. Hit and run reported at 42 Bellarmine Road. Case is currently under investigation 2:56 p.m. Wicker basket reported stolen from bicycle parked in front of Campion 9:59 p.m. License plate was reported stolen from vehicle parked in the facilities parking lot
Every Wednesday Lower BCC Free Pizza Bring a Friend Story Deadline 6 p.m. Sunday
Corrections Box September 8, 2010 Issue: P.20 TWIS: Marit Westenberg
International Studies major not a Marketing major and English minor. Member of the Athletic Department’s 3.0 Club in each of her last four semesters not three semesters. Earned Dean’s List for all those semesters.
See an error email info@fairfieldmirror.com
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The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
News
Page 5
Larceny
Continued from page 1
also a breeding ground for theft. “We’re really trying to push this message to community members: If people are in your residence and you don’t know them, don’t let them in,” said Ritchie. The other crimes seemingly on the rise are sexual offenses. In 2007 only one sexual offense was reported. The number has grown by one each year since. “Sexual assaults are nationally underreported,” said Ritchie. “If you look at the statistics approximately 1 in 5 women will be sexually assaulted. For only three assaults to have occurred on campus doesn’t match up,” said Ritchie. With that in mind, Public Safety implemented an anonymous reporting system last year because of the fact that community members may feel uncomfortable coming forward and in turn, their assault goes unreported. Public safety feels a rise in numbers is a result of advertising this campaign and encouraging community members to report incidents. With a new school year well on its way, Public Safety hopes to keep the students safe while still respecting their privacy. It’s a big job, and students need to play their role. Lock your doors, be selective with your guest lists and report incidents as they occur. Think about your safety!
Fairfield Celebrates Eid-Al-Fitr Continued from page 1 that it does not condone such actions. The Quran dates back to the seventh century when it was revealed to Muhammad, the last prophet of Islam. Although the Quran has been the object of controversy since the attacks, it contains many verses that are overlooked which offer an often unseen view of Islam. For example, in chapter 49 verse 13 God addresses the Muslims on the topic of social ethics. The verse, according to the Abdullah Yusuf Ali English translation, is as follows: O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise each other). Verily the most honoured of you in the sight of God is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And God has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things). At the end of this session the audience was allowed to observe the Maghrib prayer, which is one the five daily prayers performed by Muslims. “I thought it was beautiful to observe the prayer and that especially allowed people to continue with this interfaith dialogue,” said Sarah Perone ‘11, who attended the event as part of her Islamic in America course. Dinner was served with Pakistani style food from the Salt & Pepper restaurant in Bridgeport. The room that was previously set up with rows of chairs quickly converted into a makeshift private dining area when the people gathered with their friends and huddled their chairs together into a circle. Overall, the event was described by many of the attendees as a great one. “I first noticed that there were many non-Muslims in the audience and I appreciated them learning about Muslim students at Fairfield University and Islam in general. It was a relief, especially considering the current problems faced by Muslims in America, to know that there were many people who care about the Muslims,” said Sahab Aslam, a graduate student at Fairfield who hopes that there will be many more similar events which will promote peace and tolerance.
Backpacks
Continued from page 2
lighter workload, there are other reasons for students to pass on the backpack. “I like to carry a bag because it’s fashionable. Also, I don’t carry a backpack on some days because I only have three classes and found myself not needing it,” said Anne Nieuwenhuis ’11. So whether it be practicality or a fashion statement, it seems that on a college campus it’s easier for students to make a conscious choice without any kind of health risk. It’s not really about how heavy your backpack is, it’s how you wear it and if the backpack has enough support. A backpack is used for walking to and from classes, so if a student were to run around with a backpack on, they are more susceptible to injury according to Weindling. “Even with the best intentions, if you make a move that’s not just walking you have a higher chance to hurt yourself. People need to remember what backpacks are made for in order to avoid injury,” said Weindling.
Ali Foreman/ The Mirror
Stags Buck The New Stag By Samantha Goodnow Staff Writer The Stag Snack Bar has made changes in the décor, dining options and hours of operation. Only a few days into the new school year, the new Stag was open for business. Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs, Mr. Jim Fitzpatrick, had a great deal to do with the changes made to The Stag, and helped organize and make decisions for the process. “One of the reasons we looked at renovating The Stag was the amount of time that had passed since the last renovations,” said Fitzpatrick. The last renovations were made in 2001, and the adaptations for The Stag were minimal due to the available funding at the time. Funds for the most recent renovations came from Sodexo, and the funding was designated specifically for construction and renovation. The funds were used for all of the changes. “Timing was right, the funds were there, so we thought let’s do it right,” said Fitzpatrick. Eddie Muniz, President of FUSA, explains that the changes had been greatly anticipated. “We worked with Mr. Fitzpatrick over the past few months. We worked closely with him about changes that the students would like to see,” said Muniz. Changes in the décor include new booth seating, as opposed to the bar stool and table arrangement that was in The Stag only months ago. “The seating situation and booths are a plus. When I come with the soccer team or in other groups, someone might have had to stand because there weren’t enough chairs,” said David Piedrahita, ‘11. The booths are similar to the booths found in Barone Dining Hall and allow for more people to sit together, whereas the circular tables found in The Stag last year sat only about three people. Changes were also made to the food served. “While we were looking into changes, it became apparent to us that [Sodexo] was phasing out the Sky Ranch and phasing in Original Burger Company,” said Fitzpatrick. The other changes in food are from the regular pizza place to a brickoven pizzeria (called Rob and Iggy’s Pizzeria) and from Boar’s Head deli meats to Thuman’s. “We felt that there was a general consensus that the pizza left an awful lot to be desired. The brick-oven pizzeria should be open by the beginning of October,” said Fitzpatrick. The brand-new brick ovens were installed on September 20, and the test runs for the pizzas will commence next week. In deciding to change the deli meat from Boar’s Head, Fitzpatrick partook in a taste test to ensure that quality would not be changed. “It caught me off-guard because I didn’t feel anyone could fool me when it came to turkey breast,” said Fitzpatrick after testing each of the products. Fitzpatrick said that the Thuman’s quality was no less than Boar’s head, which he agreed was a very high quality deli meat. “Also, Boar’s Head was less than enthusiastic for providing financial support. They surprised us with how they acted to the Fairfield account,” said Fitzpatrick. “Thuman’s support dollars were there for some initiatives in student events that Boar’s Head did not support, and so it became a very easy decision.” The general response from students about the food had been either neutral or positive. “I haven’t had much of the new food, but I had a burger and thought it was bad. But I
Ali Foreman/ The Mirror
Above: Photos display the new seating options at the renovated on-campus deli. thought they were last year too,” said Kate Foley ‘13. Muniz said that he thought responses were positive after the initial questioning about the changes. “Changes were made based on what students had to say. It wasn’t as welcoming and friendly, but now the atmosphere has changed and I think that’s something the university was aiming for,” said Muniz Another change to The Stag, besides the décor and the food, is the change in hours of operation. “My freshman year, [The Stag] was open until 11:00 p.m.,” said Muniz. Last year, The Stag was open every night until 9 p.m. The new hours are Monday-Wednesday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Thursday and Friday it offers late night options for students who don’t want the party scene—who just want a cool place to hang out. The hours have been of concern in the past, and though they have been changed for those two days, the hours of operation are still brought into question. “I think the hours should change, but I think the morning hours should be extended,” said Foley. Other responses have been positive as well. “I do like the changes, but I don’t like the wait and line. I think also that people get confused with the start of the line. But the seating is still really good,” said Piedrahita. While the pizzeria has yet to debut, the other changes in The Stag seem to have a positive effect on the student dining life. “All the responses I have heard so far has been positive, but I feel it’s too early to question. It has been a good opening month and students seem pleased with the changes,” said Fitzpatrick.
Beer-o-nomics The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
News
Page 7
“Where Your Money Ends Up On Weekends”
Pre-Game
Beer: Thirty
Spirits: Handle
Moe’s
Moe’s
Keystone Light $15.99 Busch Light (Sale) $14.99 Natty Light $15.99
Dubra Smirnoff Bacardi
Fairfield Wine & Spirits
Fairfield Wine & Spirits
Keystone Light Busch Light Natty Light
$15.99 $15.99 $15.99
Dubra Smirnoff Bacardi
Fun Facts: Recycle 12 thirty’s = $18.00 (1 Thirty) If a 150lb male participates in a power hour (8 Lite Beers in 1 hour) his BAC is %0.115
Town Houses: Beer Ball
$11.99 $22.99 $21.99
Annie Rooney/The Mirror
Party
Moe’s
$10.99 $22.99 $23.99
Fun Facts: A handle is 1750 ml = 59.17 ounces 59.17/1.5 ounce shot glass=39.44 shots
Beach House: Keg Moe’s
Beer Ball(shh)
$38.00
Keg: Key/Natty
Fairfield Wine & Spirits
$60.00**
Fairfield Wine & Spirits
Beer Ball(shh)
$36.00
Keg: Key/Natty
Townhouse Rules:
Fun Facts:
1. 50 person max 2. Kegs banned since 2006 3. Basements are locked
Distance from Grape to campus: Contributed Photo
Dominos
Late Night
$60.00**
2.7 miles **Needs Deposit
Circle Diner Garden Omlet
$6.75
$11.49
Bacon Cheeseburger Deluxe
$9.95
Cheesy Bread
$4.99
Cheese Fries
Chicken Kickers
$7.49
Chicken Ceasar Wrap
$9.95
Cinnastix
$4.49
Belgain Waffle
$4.80
Delivery Tip
$7.00
Cab Ride from Campus Security Gate:
$5.50
Tip
$1.00
2 med pizzas 2 toppings
$5.99
Large Plain
Survivor Tip: clean up the night before to avoid morning smell
$4.25
Dan Leitao/ The Mirror
Total: Putting Daddy’s Credit Card to Good Use
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
Opinion
Online
Send your thoughts to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com.
fairfieldmirror.com
editorial
Peter Caty Annie Rooney Dan Leitao Alexandria Hein
Page 9
Opinion | 9 Editor Elizabeth Connors »opinion@fairfieldmirror.com
Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite!
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Keeping It Clean: The Literal Way Welcome to college. I hope Mom taught you how to clean. Something that is easily forgotten throughout the college experience (in more ways than one) is learning how to keep it clean. Dorm rooms get filled with dust, dirt, sand and crumbs, and after the first week of school, it becomes easily noticeable as you walk around barefoot. Buy a broom. Having a broom really does wonders. Even if you only use it once a week, just get the grime out. Sweep the filth into the hallway and the cleaning ladies will vacuum it up during their morning routines. Yes, every time you walk into your room you track the dirt and sand that you had just swept out back in, but sweep it out once a week and consider it a workout. You burn 112 calories with 30 minutes of sweeping. (If you sweep that long, please come clean the Mirror Office). Having a Swiffer also helps keep your floor clean and smelling fresh. Nothing smells better than a sterile LYSOL wiped surface (desktops and refrigerators included), after the weekends of wine spills and shotgun explosions. LYSOL is your friend and Costco has a great deal for a pack of three. Last but certainly not least, do laundry. Don’t only wash your everyday gym clothes and t-shirts. Wash your towels. Wash your sweatshirts. And wash your sheets! Not only will you get along better with your roommate, but also you will help prevent the dispersion of a germ infestation and development of microscopic creatures. According to NYU School of Medicine’s associate professor of microbiology, Philip Tierno says that every night, we shed one and a half million clusters of skin cells per hour. With a healthy eight hours of sleep, you wake up with 12 million particles all over your body. Oh but that’s not all. Tierno says our sheets are also filled with bodily fluids after an easy night’s rest. Sweat, tears, saliva, snot and other bodily discharge are left behind each night and will accumulate over time. And if you’re not sweeping your floor, dust and debris will make up 10 percent of you pillow and will double the weight of your mattress after ten years. Save yourself and use your StagBucks. Walk down to the laundry room once a week, and in the meantime sweep and swiffer your room. So why are we giving you a mother’s lecture on how to keep it clean? The disgusted reaction you had after reading the bed bugs story just wasn’t enough. So keep it clean, on all levels, please.
While bed bugs haven't been found at Fairfield, they have been popping up at nearby college campuses. Have an opinion? Send it to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com.
Tweeting TMI on Twitter By Courtney Todd Staff Writer In recent years, social networking has skyrocketed and has become insanely popular, mostly among teens and young people. First there was MySpace, then Facebook. Now there is a new way to share with the world: Twitter. Twitter allows people to create their own personal accounts and, in 140 characters or less, post comments about what they are doing and speak their minds on whatever topics they please. Most users add posts several times a day; with the option to post pictures and videos too, we often see more information about people than we should. Now it has become more popular because people don’t have to sit at their computers to use it – Twitter can be accessed wirelessly through Blackberrys and iPhones. Twitter also happens to be vastly popular with celebrities, who are definitely large advertisers of the site. I think one reason people are so fascinated by Twitter in the first place is because of its heavy use by celebrities. They might think it is cool to know what Kim Kardashian, Lindsay Lohan or John Mayer (all of whom are big Twitter users) are doing right up to the minute. Having my thirteen-year-old brother tell me he “made a Twitter to follow athletes” showed me that people really do make accounts solely to follow celebrities. Twitter can be okay when it comes to just sending shout-outs, hellos or brief niceties, but there are some people who just go too far and even get a little weird. We
really don’t need to know that you just took a bathroom break, that you might take a nap or that the burrito from Taco Bell you just had was awesome! Personally, I choose to not use Twitter. I see it as ridiculous and unnecessary. Of course I tell my friends and family what I’m up to each day, but the whole “Twittersphere” does not need to know. It isn’t natural to let people know what we are doing every minute. It is because of social networking (especially Twitter) that people do not have true privacy anymore, and they are doing it to themselves. Why would people post play-by-plays of their days for tons of other people to see? Honestly, who cares? People need to realize that if they stopped posting every aspect of their lives online, things would be much simpler. Yes, positive things can come out of Twitter, but it creates room for negativity and drama as well. Life is already busy enough without that added outlet. If you have an issue with someone, talk to him or her, don’t tweet it. By putting their ideas out there, people are making themselves very susceptible to attacks. This doesn’t stop them from becoming obsessed and continuing to do it. So what is it that draws them in? Are people so selfcentered that they think others really care that much? I suppose so, because I don’t see any other reason to join Twitter. So I have to ask, with this new generation of social networking and Twitter, is nothing sacred anymore? You can decide for yourself, but please, there are just some things that should really just stay private.
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The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
Opinion
Wish I'd Known That...
Page 10
Sports Rivalries By Dan leitao Managing Editor After watching this weekend’s trouncing of the Patriots by the Jets, I began thinking back to freshman year when I hung a Patriots and Red Sox flag in my window on the 3rd floor of Gonzaga, facing Canisius. You couldn’t walk out of the building without seeing the flag. It was great when the Red Sox won the World Series, but it wasn’t so great when the Patriots lost the Super Bowl to the Giants. Our student body is known to be divided between Boston and New York sports. Even if you are from Ohio, you will be expected to make a decision as to which side you will root for and accordingly celebrate. (No brainer, Boston teams) Within this divided environment, there are two types of fans. There are casual fans like myself and then eccentric fans who can tell you every player and every stat for their team. As football season starts and playoffs for baseball nears, tensions always seem to run high among casual fans and eccentrics alike. Whether you are out at a party or in class, there is an acceptable amount of trash talking about next week’s games, especially when someone is wearing the apparel of the opposing team. However, one thing I will say about these debates is that casual fans, no matter how much passion they have for their team, will always look like idiots when arguing with an eccentric. You must be aware of this because if two casual fans or two eccentric fans are arguing with each other, people will just decide to support who ever is arguing for their team. When the mismatch occurs between casual and eccentric, it is best to just admit a quiet defeat to someone who is not necessarily right, but who simply understands the game more than you, no matter how irritating this admission is. Also guys, don’t think just because you are arguing with a girl that you will know more than her. Every now and then you will be shown up. Now for those of you who are stuck in the middle and are trying to pick sides, do not just go with who you think will win. There is nothing worse than being a bandwagon fan. It is best to choose a team and never change your mind. Once you have chosen New York or Boston you are a New York or Boston fan for life - just don’t forget that.
Photos By Elizabeth Connors/The Mirror
Signs on campus warn students to stay away from the construction, and equipment causes a not-so scenic route to class.
Building for the Future, Not Helping the Present
By Elizabeth Connors Opinion Editor The leaves are changing, the air is getting cooler and the noise of bulldozers is ringing through the air? It’s fall at Fairfield University and many students returned to campus this year to find much of the campus under construction. Up in the Quad and down by the Village, mounds of dirt and piles of pipes are sectioned off by fences, changing our footpaths and taking away our parking spaces. As a senior living in the Village, I unfortunately do not get to reap the benefits of what, judging by the picture, is sure to be a beautiful new apartment building with a wide open space for its students to throw Frisbees. I do however, get to enjoy the sights, sounds and unfortunately smells that come from the building process. Excited about living in the Apartments and the prospect of senior year, I moved in and tried to stay positive, despite all the inconveniences. However, walking into my room I found an orange piece of paper with complimentary earplugs attached, apologizing in advance for the noise. Not a good first sign, I thought, but it was nice of the school to think of us. But according to my roommate, a couple days later someone knocked on our door and asked for the earplugs back because they were supposed to go to students in Kostka. Apparently students in Kostka, which is ten feet closer to the construction than the Apart-
ments, are the only ones who can hear the diggers at 7 a.m. Luckily, there haven’t been any major noise occurrences as of yet, but I’m not looking forward to the day that I don’t have class until the afternoon and the sound of jackhammers wakes me up at the crack of dawn. In addition, the construction site in the Village just happens to be located on what used to be the main parking lot for the students who live there. The lack of parking has thrown the students into a complicated mess. Just a couple days before class started, senior Village residents entered a lottery to decide who was going to be able to park somewhat close to the Village in the old JesRes parking lot, and who was going to have to park across campus at Jogues. Seniors who have an internship, a job, or even who want to go grocery shopping are not happy about the trek. “I think it’s really unfair that I had to pay the same amount as students who get to park right outside their dorms,” said Brittany Martin '11, referencing her Jogues sticker that still cost her $80. Martin said that she rarely uses her car and is forced to get a ride with friends when she wants to go to Stop & Shop. What about that extra lot in the back of the Quick Center parking lot that’s not being used? Many originally thought that’s where we were going to be parking, but instead we have to either walk half way across campus or through a building to get home. Using that parking lot wouldn’t be taking away spots from Quick Center patrons because it didn’t
exist prior to this past spring. So instead it sits empty, and the students are the ones who are confined in the Village, with no car and no campus shuttle to let us out. But if you think about it, we’re not at college to drive around and we’re not at college to sleep-in every day. We’re at college to go to class and to get an education. That would be great…if we had a way to get to class. The path between the library and Bannow, which used to be how students living in the Village got to class on the upper part of campus, is now blocked off. I can deal with a little noise. I can even deal with not parking as close as I might want to. But cutting us off from classes? Now, instead of walking on a scenic path through the trees and past the Chapel, there is no direct route to class. We must go past the construction equipment swinging overhead, around and up the parking lot of the BCC, through the building, up the stairs and up to classes. I leave almost a half hour early to get to class if I need to go to Donnarumma. Additionally, coming back to the Village at night when it is dark is an accident waiting to happen. There are no lights and the sidewalk is pitch black with overgrown roots causing obstacles to trip over. We’re not asking for much, Fairfield. We simply want a safe way to get to class. But if we absolutely must get woken up early and smell the odors from the construction sites, at least bring back the campus shuttle so we can get to class on time.
Practicing Socially Just Catholicism By Peter Fulham Contributing Writer The following is an article written for the Georgetown Hoya. For more information go to www.thehoya.com "Georgetown is as Catholic as you want it to be,” a returning student told me during my first days here last week. This was, mostly, welcome news. Like many other students I know, I have an uneasy relationship with the faith in which I was raised. As a gay American, I have often felt unwelcome in the Catholic Church and in Catholic schools. I cringe every time I come across the pope’s description of homosexuality as “intrinsically disordered.” I struggle to suppress anger when devout Catholics, discussing homosexuality, instruct others to “hate the sin, love the sinner” — the operative word here being “hate.” Still, on my own accord, I matriculated at a Catholic college before transferring to Georgetown — another Catholic college. My friends from high school often looked at me in disbelief when I discussed my undergraduate plans (“You’re going where?”). I took their concerns seriously, but I enrolled anyway. The horrific news last year of widespread child abuse among priests throughout Europe seemed to confirm the apprehensions of my friends. Why would any progressive, tolerant person want to be a part of an organization that had demonstrated such monstrous corruption? It’s a good question, which my old boss, Melinda Henneberger of PoliticsDaily. com, answered well in a column last year, discussing her decision to remain in the Catholic Church. “There I am and there I will stay,” she wrote. “Why? Well, to return to the world of politics for a comparison, say you were a lifelong Democrat who had learned that those running the
[Democratic National Convention] had betrayed your trust in just about every way you could think of. You’d be angry, yes, and I wouldn’t want to be the poor guy trying to get you to open your wallet for the next cycle. But would their perfidy turn you into a Republican? No, you’d keep right on living life as a Democrat because that’s who you are. In the end, it is not about them.” In the end, of course, it’s not about them. Catholicism is defined by the millions who practice it, not the Vatican, whose
“I knew when I enrolled at Georgetown that the most appealing quality of the university was its Jesuit tradition, which maintains that students should use their education to become 'men and women for others.'" reprehensible response to the abuse crisis and whose divisive teachings on social issues — from contraception to homosexuality — have long since repudiated its moral authority. There is, to be sure, a significant amount of work to be done, starting at the college level. This October marks the one-year anniversary of a string of hate crimes in which three students at Georgetown were assaulted after being called homophobic slurs. In 2008, after vigorous advocacy from students, Georgetown finally established the LGBTQ Resource Center — only after the administration repeatedly denied funding for LGBTQ groups and many years after other leading American universities had set up similar organizations. It’s no secret that homophobia still pervades campus culture. Last week, I was spending time with a friend in a freshman dorm, playing a video game (reluctantly). We all chose our
onscreen characters, which were about to race each other in a four-person dash. A friend selected a strange-looking virtual competitor and received an instant, good-natured snipe from across the room: “Everyone knows that one’s gay!” But despite the reprehensible actions and misguided teachings of the Catholic Church, and the remaining lack of tolerance here on campus, I would not want to attend college anywhere else. I knew when I enrolled at Georgetown that the most appealing quality of the university was its Jesuit tradition, which maintains that students should use their education to become “men and women for others.” Listening to University President John J. DeGioia’s remarks at convocation this year, which urged students to view education in the context of global poverty, was enough to convince any skeptic that Georgetown is a place where most students use Catholicism as a force for social change, rather than one for division and discrimination. The Catholic Church has a long way to go. But the chance to receive an education that incorporates the Jesuit commitment to social justice outweighs, by far, the drawbacks that accompany going to a Catholic college. To be a Catholic, one does not have to embrace the dogmatic patriarchy of the Vatican. As Nicholas Kristof pointed out last April in The New York Times, there is another Catholic Church worth fighting for, made up of largely unsung heroes — from organizations like Catholic Relief Services, which saves lives every day around the world, to the nuns and priests in the Congo, who work tirelessly to feed children and provide basic health care. As long as we keep this church alive — a church that works for equality and for improving the lives of the world’s poorest citizens — we can all be proud to call it our own. Peter Fulham is a sophomore at Georgetown University.
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
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Arts & Entertainment| 11 Editor Devon Porrino» entertainment@fairfieldmirror.com
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By Devon Porrino Entertainment Editor
Jason Derulo. 3OH!3. Down With Webster. Three amazing artists combined for an amazing concert at Fairfield U. Students at Fairfield are high with anticipation and those who aren’t lucky enough to attend Fairfield for our fall concert will surely be driving in just to witness a night of sheer enjoyment. Of course most of us already know and have heard the hit singles of all three artists, but what is their background really? Where did they start? Luckily, we’ll know all there is to know in time for the big night.
3OH!3:
The duo, which was founded in 2004, consists of Sean Foreman and Nathaniel Motte, two Boulder, CO natives who met while attending the University of Colorado. 3OH!3, which got its name from the duo’s area code of Boulder (303), independently released their recording debut in 2007. The band, which is known for its hit song titled, “Don’t Trust Me,” is also renown for their “indie electronica beats and lots of tom foolery” according to allmusic. com. 3OH!3 released a second album titled Want in 2008 and also performed at the 2008 Warped Tour.
Down With Webster:
Down With Webster, also referred to, as DWW is a seven-man band that originated in The Beaches area of Toronto, Ontario. The pop rock/hip hop band signed with Universal Motown in 2009 and is releasing a new album, “Time to win”, in Spring 2010.
“Easy A” Gets An A
Contributed Photo
3OH!3 in concert Contributed Photo
DWW who “writes, produces and performs all of their music” is known to have crazy live shows which “are the stuff of the local legend, selling 1000+ tickets as headliners in their hometown of Toronto as an indie band before ever releasing a single or video,” according to their official website, www.downwithwebster.com.
Jason Derulo:
This well-known R&B artist started out as a songwriter before his call to stardom, writing songs for Lil Wayne and Pitbull, as well as other famous singers and rappers. Born in Miramar, FL, Derulo attended performing art schools in Florida where he composed his first piece of music at eight years old. The Haitian songwriter, now singer, blew fans out of the water in 2009 with his first hit, “Watcha Say” which combined his vocal talent and a well known Imogen Heap song titled, “Hide and Seek.” “Watcha Say” topped the charts nationally as well as internationally in countries such as Canada, Australia, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK. Derulo’s full-length debut album was released in 2010 after his second single, “In My Head” was released, which was placed at number five, according to allmusic.com.
By Elizabeth Connors Opinion Editor We’ve all seen them – high school, chick flick, romantic comedies. Not another one, you might be groaning. But even though in “Easy A” Emma Stone freakishly resembles Lindsay Lohan, her character, Olive, is more reminiscent of Ellen Page’s Juno than of any other stereotypical high school-based character. Stone’s quick-wit, sarcasm and sharpness are what make “Easy A” edgier than your typical chick flick. Set in a high school in California, (though it’s hard to believe any of these actors are of high school age) “Easy A” tells the story of Olive Penderghast (Emma Stone) and how she went from being invisible to being the high school slut, all through some untrue rumors. However, instead of being embarrassed or trying to set the record straight, good-girl Olive decides it would be more fun to embrace the role and become a modernday Hester Prynne of “The Scarlett Letter”, which her class just happens to be reading. She evens sews red A’s onto provocative dresses and lingerie. It all starts innocently enough, just trying to help her friend Brandon (Dan Byrd) get out of being bullied for being gay by making everyone believe she slept with him. However, every teenage guy starts offering money and gift cards in exchange for bettering their reputation and, as these things do in a world where students live through text messaging, word gets out that Olive is exchanging sex for money. As an audience member, your heart goes out to Olive for many reasons. We’ve probably all been victims of rumors in high school, and Stone does a great job of showing that the
clearly-not-stupid Olive is doing a somewhat-stupid thing, but for all the right reasons. The movie, although rated PG-13 and set in a high school, is probably more suited for an older teenage audience due to the content and the surprisingly large amount of swearing. However, the clever writing and pop culture references (who doesn’t love a good John Hughes tribute?) make “Easy A” one of the funniest and most heart-warming movies of the year. While Stone gets most of the credit for holding the movie together, she is backed by a wonderful supporting cast. Most notably, Olive’s parents (Stanley Tucci and Patricia Clarkson), who are the kind of California-cool parents we all wish we had but at the same time are thankful that we don’t. Their laid-back style and funny banter make it easy to see why Olive is the way she is. Other supporting roles include type-cast high schoolers. There’s Marianne the “Jesus freak” (Amanda Bynes) who publicly scorns Olive, Rhiannon (Alyson Michalka) who is slightly annoying as Olive’s quirky best friend, and Todd (Penn Badgley) as Olive’s love interest and the one who proves that not all guys are jerks. Rounding out the students are the English teacher we all wish we had, Mr. Griffith (Thomas Haden Church), and his wife the guidance counselor (Lisa Kudrow) who plays a more important role than you’d think. “Easy A’s” writing and direction are terrific but it is really the cast who make the movie what it is. Many critics are calling this Stone’s break-out performance in what’s sure to lead to many leading roles. When Olive’s English teacher asks why she’s wearing the red letter A on her bustier, Olive smirks and says, “Oh, it’s for awesome.” Yes Olive, yes you are.
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
Arts & Entertainment
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App of the Week: “Last Call” By Dan Leitao Managing Editor Ever wonder when you got pulled over whether you would be over or under .08? “Last Call”, an App developed by Avvo, Inc., is designed just for that purpose. When you first open up the App, it will ask for your sex and weight, then each time you finish off a drink you can add the drink into the app and it will show you a dotted line with a projection of where your BAC will reach and when it will have left your system. The App also allows you to call a local cab as well as a local DUI lawyer. Clearly the app can’t determine your direct BAC due to the fact it that it is based on projections; however, it is useful for learning how many drinks will put you over the limit or to see your entire weekend drinking log and realize you should probably quit drinking.
Price: FREE
Contributed Photos
iPick By Brian Loftus Staff Writer
Song: Sweet Inspiration Artist: The Derek Trucks Band
Song: First Breath After the Coma Artist: Explosions in the Sky You all might recognize this album from the film, Friday Night Lights. Throw on this album, The Earth is Not a Cold, Dead Place, light a candle in your room and the homework that ensues will be the most glorious thing you’ve ever hated to do.
This song combines a soul feeling with a beautiful message that makes you want to sing it at the top of your lungs. Try going out on a nice day and belting this with your eyes closed. Just make sure you’ve got a friend in the driver’s seat.
Song: What is Life Artist: George Harrison Whether you’re walking to class on a Monday, or a few drinks in on Friday night, when this song comes on, it always brings you back to the 60s. So ride the tune and let all thoughts go with the song. Tell me what is my life without your love. Tell me who am I without you by my side...
Song: Follow Me Up to Carlow Artist: Diarmuid O’Leary & The Bards This is a great Irish ballad that just makes you want to dance with the beat. Jump around and pretend you know the words. Yell and scream-this song is bound to get your heart racing. I know you’ll love the authentic uilleann pipes that come in halfway through the song.
Song: Barefoot Children Artist: Jimmy Buffett Everyone knows that Jimmy Buffett is synonymous with the Carribbean, sailing the green waters and Cheeseburgers in Paradise, but just beneath the surface of his greatest hits are such soulful songs like this one. Turn it on, close those eyes, and go anywhere you want. The wrinkles only go where the smiles have been.
Arts & Entertainment
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
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“The Town” Scores Big From Weekend By Amanda Murray Contributing Writer a romantic relationship, while concealing his true profession. However, as the movie progresses Affleck and his team learn that Claire will not be their biggest problem. The film is full of short scenes of brutality, which give the plot a sense of efficiency. Affleck does not weigh it down by putting in long drawn out scenes of bloody violence. He also does a good job at portraying the emotional dilemma of someone trying to break out from a life to which he was essentially predestined. My only qualm would be Blake Lively’s poor attempt at a Boston accent; I do not see a future for her. Although the plot is not as complicated and intertwined as “The Departed,” Affleck does a solid job of giving the audience suspense, action and a little bit of romance.
“The Town,” written and directed by Ben Affleck, is a not-so-brief look into the nation’s largest breeding ground for bank robbers, Charlestown, Mass. Or if you are not a “toonie,” as Jeremy Remmer’s character Jim most eloquently puts it, the town is “Chalstown.” This movie, like “The Departed,” is a two full hours of dropped r’s, volatile Bostonians with machine guns and picturesque views of the city. In the opening credits of the film you are hit with three quotes, all explaining how Charlestown is a breeding ground for bank robbers and criminals. This is a craft passed down from father to son, which you come to find out is true for the foursome headed by Affleck (Doug MacRay) and Remmer (James “Jem” Coughlin). It is a town that sucks you in and, as Affleck’s character learns, is almost impossible to leave. Within the first five minutes of the film Affleck and his crew are stationed outside a bank waiting to make their move. They are dressed in terrifying Halloween masks and carrying machine guns. Before the heist begins, MacRay reminds his men that every second counts. When the time is right, the foursome blazes into the Cambridge bank without hesitation, almost making a bank robbery look easy. Unfortunately, part of their robbery does not go according to plan and Coughlin must make the executive decision to take Claire (Rebecca Hall), the pretty bank manager, as a hostage. Claire quickly becomes the one person who could put the MacRay and his crew away for life and so Affleck’s character follows Claire to see if she will be any trouble. Against his own better judgment, Affleck ensues
“The Town” Release Date: 17 September 2010 Runtime: 123 min. Reviewer Rating: 4 Stars Local Theaters Showing “The Town”: Bowtie Marquis Cinema 16 100 Quarry Rd, Trumbull, CT 06611 Regal Cinemas Stratford Stadium 14 411 Barnum Avenue Cutoff, Stratford, CT 06614 Contributed Photo
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The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
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Coffee Break | 15
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Dear Dee, It is only the beginning of the fourth week of classes and I am feeling overwhelmed with all the work. I was in the top 10 percent of my high school and never expected college classes to be so challenging. In high school I belonged to many clubs, played sports and still had time for my schoolwork and friends. I don’t know if I am going to be able to do this. I feel like I can’t keep a grip on this all. Please give me some advice. Thanks, Slip Sliding Away
Dear Slip Sliding Away, First, congratulations on selecting Fairfield University. It is important to remember that Fairfield would not have accepted you if they did not believe you could be successful. Also know that acclimating yourself to college life involves lots of adjustment and changes from living at home and attending high school. College is challenging. It is said that colleges take about two years of classes and condenses them into one year. The accelerated speed requires some adjustments to how you do the required work. Additionally, professors at Fairfield treat you like an adult and expect you to be 100 percent responsible for your classes. Having said that though, the professors also are very willing to meet with you to discuss your issues. There are also tutors who can help you stay on track. Also, the Dean of Freshman’s office is a great place to go and talk through the issues you are feeling. There are a few other things that I feel are worth mentioning. Think about how many credits you are
Editor Dan Leitao » info@fairfieldmirror.com
Send YOUR questions to deardee @fairfieldmirror. com carrying. If you are trying to pack in too many credits into your first semester, it might be wise to back it down to just 12 or 15 credits. You have until October 22 to drop a class without any penalty. It may be better to take fewer classes and build your confidence while adapting to college life than to try and cram in too many classes and feel overwhelmed. While the purpose of college is to study and further your education, that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t have a social life and have fun. Your education includes interacting with new and diverse members of Fairfield and to grow as a person, not just a student. That fact that you are here tells me that you can be successful at Fairfield. Just remember that there are many resources that you can tap into if you feel the need. Keep your head up and enjoy the best years of your life.
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 Sept. 22, 2010
iPhone vs. BlackBerry
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DUI: DIALING UNDER THE INFLUENCE
By Dan Leitao Might As Well Be Justin Long It is an epidemic. It happens every night all across the world. People drink and then they get behind their phones and dial away. They rapidly send text messages and call half of their phone book. They wake up the next morning and ask themselves why they even bothered to bring their phone out with them last night. A slew of texts from simple “hellos” to “what are you up to?” to nonsensical drunken slurs are a common sight for most college students when they roll over in bed the next morning to see the damage they’ve done. It may not be as job ending or potentially life threatening as a real DUI but it can certainly hurt your pride for the next 24 hours, or the next time you see the person in class. For those of you who use the DUI in an attempt to find a companion for the night, Barney Stinson of How I Met Your Mother says it best, “On a booty call, you barely even have to talk. Around 9 p.m. you say, “Hey baby, it’s Barney. You busy tonight? Sweet. See you in half an hour? Can’t wait.” But the later it gets, the fewer words you need. [12:23 a.m.]: “Barney. Busy? Sweet.” And by 3 a.m., he simply sends a “?” Now for those of you who find other uses for DUI, besides booty calls, here are a few things to keep in mind. For starters just don’t do drunk dial and text. That being said, my iPhone proves it is most certainly better at DUI then Alex’s Blackberry from personal experience. A phone call always seems slightly more reasonable then a text. But the worst thing you can do is leave a voice mail. Chances are you will say some-
By Alex Hein Still Can't Hear You Now thing and might not even remember what you said. A text you can always read in the morning. A voice mail you will simply see that you had a phone conversation that was about 30 seconds to a minute long and be left wondering what could have transpired. The real trick is how you play it off the next day. You have a few different options. Ignore it happened, confront it when you wake up, or just repeat the same act the next night. The truth behind the matter is that you can’t really apologize for a drunk text or a drunk dial because it’s not really something you can explain besides “um I drank and thought it was a good idea.” Not to mention that all of us with BlackBerrys and iPhones can email, tweet, Facebook and check in to places we wouldn’t want people knowing we we’re at. What once was just DUI has become a plethora of other drunken phone aided crimes against friends and people you haven’t talked to in years. Oh and BlackBerry Girl knows a DUI is welcome from her anytime, and last Saturday I just wanted to watch the stars, obviously. (Not Awkward)
You know when you’ve thrown back a few and you’re feeling pretty friendly? You walk into a party and you’re high-fiving and hugging and kissing everyone on the cheek? You know those times that you feel that it is absolutely imperative to have a conversation with someone random in one of your classes? I can tell you that almost always that conversation comes back to something about the class, and most likely the professor, because in your sober state that is the only thing you have in common with your new friend. Well in today’s world it only seems natural for a professor to put their cell phone numbers on the class syllabus and what do you know, it’s in your contacts list now. What better thing to do in your less than intelligent state of mind, than to call up the common denominator right then and there? True story, it happened to one of my friends last year who thought he/she was the cool kid in the group and drunk dialed his/her professor. Sure we laughed the next morning but I can’t tell you how happy I was that I wasn’t the one sitting in the victim’s class. Dialing Under the Influence (DUI) very rarely leads to situations that are not awkward and horrific. One of the many pains of a hang over is P.S. iPhone users, we are clearly better waking up the next morning to text messages cause the iPhone has a great auto correct from random people you went to high school so drunk texts are nearly always spelled with saying, “um?!” or “fun night last night?” properly unlike most of my Mirror articles. A worse pain? Actually checking that Recent Calls list. Sure Drunk Dialing is not as Sent From My iPhone physically dangerous, depending on the results of that late night booty call, as Drunk Driving,
but getting a DUI with either offense is detrimental to the ego. Think about the phone calls you get at 3 a.m., that come complete with the “I love you, I am so sorry that I cheated on you,” or “I miss you, I’m sorry I called you a ____.” Do you want to be the one saying those fatal and poisonous words? Absolutely not! Think twice and buckle up, lock that keypad! You’ll be thankful you did the next day when your friends are suffering serious injuries and yours is being cured with some Advil and a water bottle. BlackBerry users I must say this is where our phones rank superior. Our tiny intrinsic keyboards on the Curve, Bold and Tour make it increasingly difficult to unlock our phones. When we get to try eight and only have two left before we are locked out for good, we give up and venture on to other drunk expeditions, like dancing, making us more social in the process as well. Just like you would at a party involving a car and alcohol, throw away those keys, (or keypad) and enjoy yourself with the people you, in your sober state of mind, decided you wanted to be around.
P.S., iPhone Dan, what exactly did you want at 2:30 a.m. Saturday night? P.S.S. To the private number that keeps calling me. Still not interested Sent from My Verizon Wireless BlackBerry
Coffee Break
Don’t Want To Read The Mirror’s Inside Jokes?? Send In Your Own.
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
w
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Send in your own Cheers & Boos Send in Cheers and Boos by Tuesday at 5 p.m!
cheersandboos@fairfieldmirror.com or Mailbox AA
To finally getting the letter from Dean Pellegrino saying have a good 21st...to FUSA for the concert... to FUSA getting rid of bad Thursday programs... to getting $3,000+ stolen from my apartment being returned...to a great case race at The Morning Wood... to 3x5 for winning...to late night at the Stumble Inn... to beating 3x5 in OT beirut...to Lady Laura for buying only Dubra...to KS for calling dibs on guy for AH three days advance...to walking in on people hooking up late night in the BCC...to KS not being 21...to ballroom dancing 3-1 girl to guy ratio...to the freshman class being 64 percent girls...
TO PEOPLE WHO ARE SENDING IN CHEERS & BOOS NEXT WEEK
To Fairfield Cab for making me walk back from the beach...to open containers situations at the beach... the Stag not having Boar’s Head...to drunk texting your mom...to people not working and watching YouTube videos...to the Pats for blowing it this weekend...to not making it to the Grape because of The Mirror...to taking so long to bring Cheers & Boos back...to getting written up and not remembering which day it was...to being denied at Moe’s on the day I turn 21...to drunk people telling me the same story three times with in five minutes... to being randomly kicked out of a town house... to having $3,000+ stolen from my apartment... to reading endlessly about bed bugs...to teases... to advising in September...to not being allowed into class for no reason...to 8 a.m. turbos on Monday...to advisors who enroll you in one class while abroad...to people not taking case races seriously...to sketchy guys at ballroom dancing...to sketchy guys...
The Editor Reserves The Right To Not Print Any Cheers or Boos Submitted And Remeber This Is Just For Fun
Coffee Break
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
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Sports
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
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This Week in Sports The week that was in Fairfield Athletics
Introducing...
Haililani Pokipala Women's Volleyball
By Tyler Wosleger Staff Writer
Stag Sports Round-UP Women’s Soccer ended a three game losing streak by winning at Stony Brook on September 16th. Spenser Allaway '12 and Jac Ley '14 scored in Fairfield’s 3-0 win. On Sunday, the Stags fell to Army by a 1-0 score. Ley was named MAAC Rookie of the Week for her two goal week. The Stags are now 4-4 and will host Hartford on Thursday at 7:00 p.m.. Women’s Volleyball started MAAC play the right way, defeating Loyola and Rider on the road. The Stags took both matches by 3-0 scores and are now 2-0 in the MAAC. Lauren Hughes '11 had 14 kills and Haililani Pokipala '12 had 10 digs in the win over Loyola. Pokipala led the way in the win against Rider, tallying 12 kills and 13 digs for a double-double. Men’s Cross Country finished 13th this past weekend’s Iona's Meet of Champions. Benjamin Heslin '11 finished 1st for the Stags and 39th overall. Heslin's time was the fastest ever by a Stag at Van Cortlandt Park. He was followed by Howie Rosas '14 and Matt Brunelle '13.
« The Bio: Pokiapala '12 from Honolulu, Hawaii, is a Sociology major. She has led the team in aces during both her freshman and sophomore seasons and is second on the team in kills per set and digs per set. «The Props: Despite a tough non-conference record, Pokipala has been a bright spot for the Stags. She has sparked the Stags to a 2-0 conference start, registering 20 kills and 23 digs in the teams first two MAAC matches. « The Outlook: Pokipala looks to continue filling the stat sheet as she leads the Stags in their first home match against Manhattan this Saturday.
Women’s Cross Country finished 16th at the meet, led by Kristen Golen, the reigning MAAC Women’s Cross Country Runner of the Week. She was followed by Meghan Sullivan and Laura Tehan. Field Hockey saw its four game winning streak come to an end at Hofstra. The Stags fell 5-0 in their only game of the week. Catch the Stags at their next game this Friday vs Holy Cross at 4 p.m..
What to Watch for Both Cross Country teams are back in action this weekend as Fairfield hosts the 34th Fr. Victor F. Leeber, S.J. Cross Country Invitational. Women’s Volleyball takes the court in Alumni Hall for the first time this season Saturday, September 25th as they host MAAC foe Manhattan. Head over to Alumni Hall at 2 p.m. to catch your first glimpse of the Women’s Volleyball team.
Cool Hand Stew
Stewart Cheatwood saw opportunity, found a mentor and changed his career. Now he finds time to coach others. Every day, he’s feeding his life, his career and his future.
Feed your future at www.pwc.tv © 2010 PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. All rights reserved. “PricewaterhouseCoopers” refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (a Delaware limited liability partnership) or, as the context requires, the PricewaterhouseCoopers global network or other member firms of the network, each of which is a separate and independent legal entity. We are proud to be an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer.
Sports
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
Sports 3x5
Tom Fitzpatrick Sports Columnist
Tommy Polise Delivery Boy
Jack Meagher Sunday Night Contributor
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Your 2010-2011 3x5 Columnists: Tom Fitzpatrick, Tommy Polise and Jack Meagher.
To fulfill Jack's hopes: What's your favorite Barone meal?
Peyton/Eli showdown on Sunday... thoughts?
The best team in New York is....
The best player on my favorite team...
I'm counting down till Basketball season by...
Cap'n Crunch with milk, gotta play it safe at Barone
Eli ... unless you like 6' 5" 230 lb quarterbacks, with a laser rocket arm.
It's only a matter of time before the city is buzzing about New York Knicks basketball again.
Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal football club
Playing a full season of Ken Griffey, Jr. baseball on N64 .
Playing basketball everyday at 4 p.m. in the RecPlex. Everyone should come down and join.
Hibernating until the Men's Season Opener vs. Sacred Heart
Turkey burger made by Jack's favorite gourmet chef.
Gotta be awkward for the Manning family.
New York Knicks.
Eddy Curry. He has excellent potential to be a superb shot blocker, and play a strong role in the Knicks new fast pace offense.
Anything prepared by Sodexho Grillmaster Jose Diego. Enjoy guy.
Probably my least favorite set of brothers ever. No one can hold a candle to Jose and Ozzie Canseco.
Definitely not the Buffalo Bills.
Kevin 'Copacetic' Coppolecchia of Boom Goes the Dynasty flag football fame.
Sports: According to Fitz Random Thoughts on a Young NFL Season By Tom Fitzpatrick Sports Columnist The NFL season is very long and it’s easy to jump to conclusions after a few weeks. I’ll try not to do that right now:
The Week Two game that most Stags were interested in proved to live up to its billing when the New England Patriots came to the new Meadowlands Stadium to take on the Jets. The Jets, coming off an embarrassing Week One loss to the Ravens, put it all together in this one. Mark Sanchez bounced back from a dismal Week One effort to throw a career high three touchdowns. Braylon Edwards abused Patriots corner Darius Butler early and often, highlighted by doing the “dougie” in his face after a first half touchdown. Also, are my eyes playing tricks on me or is Justin Bieber the new Patriots quarterback? Jets take this one 28-14.
Brett Favre, unlike a fine wine, doesn’t seem to be getting better with age so far this season. After a mediocre Week One performance against the Saints, Father Time single-handedly took the Vikings out
of this game in front of their home fans with several costly turnovers. The purple people eaters face a bit of a crisis as they head into Week Three.
Another team that has been underachievement so far is the Dallas Cowboys. It seems that year after year they are one of the sexy picks to go to the Super Bowl, but never get everything working at the same time. How long until head coach Wade Phillips is in the hot seat?
Michael Vick is back. The notorious and mercurial quarterback threw for 284 yards and two touchdowns en route to a 35-32 win over the Lions. Say what you want about his off-field decision making skills, on the field he puts fans in the seats and appears to be rejuvenated. If Kevin Kolb struggles coming back from a concussion, there will be many calling for Vick to be the full-time starter.
Peyton’s Colts easily took care of Eli’s Giants in the annual Bro Bowl. This one wasn’t particularly close at any point and made it a lot easier to flip over the premiere of Boardwalk Empire on HBO Sunday night.
However, I was upset to hear that I missed Brandon Jacobs throw his helmet into the crowd and request a trade the next day. I think we all missed his retirement ceremony the day after the Giants won their Super Bowl.
Matt Schaub and Donovan McNabb both threw for over 400 yards as the Texans took down the ‘Skins in overtime. The only other quarterback who will do that this year will be Mike Buckenmayer of Boom Goes the Dynasty. Three Week 2 Studs: Matt Schaub, Donovan McNabb, Adrian Peterson (single-handedly kept his team in the game even after Favre threw it away ten times)
Three Week 3 Duds: Favre, Vince Young, my man crush on Brett Favre and his scruff Game of the week: Texans 30, Redskins 27. (overtime) Best three games coming up next week: Jets at Dolphins, Falcons at Saints, Cowboys at Texans.
Sports
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
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Women's Soccer
Still Stumblin' By Ivey Speight Staff Writer Once again, the Fairfield side of the scoreboard on Lessing Field was lit by a faint yellow 0. The Fairfield Stags women’s soccer team was shutout for the third time in their last four games. This time they were the victims of the defense of the Black Knights of Army. The squad has been struggling with the home-field advantage and has not scored a goal on campus in over 300 minutes; that’s since August 27th, four home games ago. “We have six attacking personality type of players on the field at any one time - we definitely should be doing more in the way of sustaining attack,” Head Coach Jim O’Brien said after the loss. The sixth year head coach has seen glimpses of the potential that highlights this team’s offensive attack but never throughout the whole game. “We’re not putting together long periods of good play,” he said. The stats prove it. Fairfield is 0-4 when falling behind but are undefeated when scoring the first goal of the game. This slumping group does have the talent. When the offense is clicking, they have the talent to be one of the best in the league. The team's attack is arguably the most experienced
group on the field. The forwards are led by the MAAC Preseason Player of the Year, Jasmin Corniel who was also the team’s leading scorer just a year ago. The junior was named to the NSCAA All-Northeast Regional team in 2009, an honor that shows the promise that she possesses. Fifth year Casey Frobey brings the experience that any squad vitally needs. The team captain is one of the most successful attackers in program history ranking sixth in points with 72 and career goals with 28. Also, the Stags welcomed Spenser Allaway back into the lineup on Thursday at Stony Brook. It was her first game since last year and she returned with a bang scoring the game-winning goal as the Stags got the road win 3-0 against the Sea Wolves. “She is definitely one of our top players and it’s very nice to have her back,” O’Brien said. The junior was named to the All-MAAC First team in her sophomore season and will look to increase the Stags offense this year. In order for the Stags to tally up the goals they are going to need to have those “long periods of good play” O’Brien mentioned. “We’re wasting time,” the coach emphasized. The upcoming road will not be as tough as their previous opponents. Two of their last three shutouts came against Boston College and Army. The Eagles were ranked fifth in the country at that time
Stag Spotlight:
Brianna Dixon '13 Women's Volleyball By Samantha Goodnow Staff Writer Long Beach, California native Brianna Dixon '13 has already made a name for herself in the MAAC. In her freshman season Dixon won multiple accolades: MAAC Rookie of the Week, Offensive Player of the Week, ALL-MAAC Second Team and MAAC Rookie of the Year. Sporting number seven playing the opposite and right side position on the court Dixon proven her self as a dominant force in the MAAC. Dixon sat down with The Mirror to share insights of being a student and Division 1 varsity athlete.
Women's Soccer: Upcoming Home Games
September 23 Hartford @ 7 p.m.
October 5 Harvard @ 6 p.m.
October 8 Manhattan @ 7 p.m.
Women's Volleyball: Upcoming Home Games
September 25
October 16
Manhattan @ 2 p.m.
Saint Peter's @ 2 p.m.
October 2
October 17
Marist @ 2 p.m.
Siena @ 2 p.m.
Q: How long have you played volleyball, and why did you choose to stick with it? A: I’ve played since I was 12. It was the only sport that combined everything that I love about being an athlete. Q: How did you choose Fairfield University? A: I liked the small campus and I liked that everybody knows each other—it’s not awkward. Even on my first recruiting trip, it wasn’t awkward. Q: What are some of the perks of being on a varsity sport? A: The perks are free food when you’re away! And, you’ve got a built in family. Plus, you don’t have to worry about staying in shape, they do it for you. Q: How important is team togetherness? A: Team unity is so important—if we’re not on the same page, the personal differences will haunt you in the game. This isn’t a sport you can play by yourself like tennis, or even scoring by yourself in soccer. Q: If you could play a different college-level sport, what would you choose? A: Track and field because I did it in high school and miss it so much. Q: What have some of your best team memories been so far? A: Probably just like our team parties because you feel like a family when you’re all together. Q: Did this family-feel contribute to a positive transition into college, especially having moved from so far away? A: Yeah, it was almost like no transition. We had preseason before, so when school started it’s like, “Oh, your family is already here!” It’s nice.
FairfieldStags.com
and the Black Knights have only allowed three goals this season. Two of those were allowed in their previous game versus Brown. The Stags will try to flush away their Lessing Field scoreless drought against Hartford. Will the tides turn for the 4-4 Stags? Watch as they battle the Hawks on Thursday night at 7 p.m.
Q: How big of a commitment is volleyball? A: It’s huge. You’re not just an athlete, you’re a studentathlete and you represent the school. You’re not nobody; if you do something wrong then everybody is going to know about it.
Q: How about the additional workouts, like with the strength and conditioning coach, Mark Spellman? A: With Spellman it seems like forever. We do an average of two hours per week. You hate it in the moment, but it’s like a love-hate relationship…you’re glad he’s there. Q: Who is someone who really inspires you? A: Vera Wang. She has taken a passion of hers and made it so big, yet so down to earth. I just want to be able to do that. Q: What would you say to aspiring players? A: Don’t doubt yourself. If you wanna do it, just do it. In the middle of when I was playing, I had a coach tell me, “You’re not a hitter.” I knew that was a lie. Q: What are some goals the team has? A: One of our team goals is to communicate so that we’re all on the same page during a game. Another is to play the same in all games, like to not go easy on easy teams. Q: Any personal goals? A: To not be such an introvert and to lead by example. Q: What do you do to get excited for games? A: I just get excited to make great plays. I listen to music too, that helps. I listen to everything. Q: What upcoming games are you looking forward to and working hard to train for? A: I’d say Siena, Niagara and the MAAC Championship— we want to win that one so badly. Q: Is there anything else that you would like to add? A: Yes! Come to our home games…they’re really fun and you can be as obnoxious as you want! Home games are in Alumni Hall, and The Mirror wishes Dixon and the rest of the women’s team a successful season.
Sports
The Mirror | Week of Sept. 22, 2010
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Field Hockey: Upcoming Games
September 24 Holy Cross @ 4 p.m.
September 28 Brown @ 4 p.m.*
October 2 Albany @ 2 p.m.
October 3 St. Joseph's @ 2 p.m.
October 9 Boston University @ 1 p.m.*
October 10 Georgetown @ 2 p.m.
October 15 California @ 4 p.m.
October 17 Maine @ 3 p.m.*
October 22 New Hampshire @ 4 p.m.
October 24 Yale @ 1 p.m.
October 30 Vermont @ 12 p.m. File Photo
Amanda Sullivan '11 helps lead Fairfield to victory as she begins her final season as a Stag.
*Away Games
Solid Start For a Stellar Squad
By Steve Flanagan Staff Writer “With a higher level of competition comes better play and better recruits.” Those are the words of Coach Jackie Kane describing this year’s challenging schedule for the Fairfield University field hockey team. Four years ago the Stags made the jump from the Northeast Conference to the America East Conference — a conference that is home to four of the top 30 teams in the country: Boston University, Albany, Maine and New Hampshire. Coupled with these four dominant programs on the schedule are four more teams that received votes in the most recent NFHCA Division 1 Poll: Hofstra, California, Temple and Dartmouth. A schedule of such ardor is fit for the English Hockey League Premier Division, the world’s highest level of play. Fairfield is quite fortunate to have help from Joey Civico, a former EHL player. Civico came to Fairfield four years ago as an assistant coach, and has returned for a second stint at the Southern Connecticut campus, looking to enter the collegiate coaching circuit. Coach Kane has noticed an immediate impact with Civico’s presence, “He’s provided a spark for the girls, a lot of times it helps to have him say things to the girls instead of them constantly hearing it from myself. He’s provided extra motivation, which combined with the seniors’ goals, has us ready for a big season.” Civico is just the latest team member to bring an international flare to the Fairfield program. Anne Nieuwenhuis '11, along with Marit Westenberg '12, and Nikki McLucas '11 have brought an added bonus. Nieuwenhuis pointed out, “The game is the same for the most part, but there are some slight things that are different.” It might just be those slight differences that give Fairfield an extra edge whether in practice or in competition. Kane’s squad is off to a start this year unlike anything the program has seen in nearly a decade. Since 2003 the Stags have won more than 6 games just
once, but after a four game winning streak last week with wins against Missouri State, Sacred Heart, Lehigh and Siena, they are in prime position to take the team to a level the program hasn’t been to in quite awhile. Bolstering this year’s team is freshman center-mid, Shea Testa. During Fairfield’s four game winning streak Testa played an integral part in the teams’ success, garnering her the America East rookie of the week award. Testa acknowledges “The game is faster [than high school], and that communication is much more important, but that the upperclassmen, especially Anne [Nieuwenhuis] have helped make the transition easy.”
“It's a test of the team's character when you come back when you get down, which we did.” -Senior Anne Nieuwenhuis
Nieuwenhuis is involved with Testa more than anyone else on the field, being the team center-back. Nieuwenhuis has enjoyed the team’s newest addition, adding, “Our communication is key for the team’s success, but Shea is a very mature freshman. I haven’t felt like I was playing with a rookie this season at all.” Testa is the team’s only freshman in the starting line-up this year, so her ability to mesh with the rest of the team has been an essential part of the team’s improvement. Coach Kane’s recruitment of Testa and the other “rookies”, as she likes to refer to the first-timers, has been constructive to the team’s growth. In a competitive conference, it is important that the recruits are able to play at such a high level. Kane added “Shea, Christy, and the others came in ready to play. Fortunately for us, the rookies aren’t ‘drill wreckers,’ which is often a stage we have to deal with when bringing new members to the team.”
During the four game streak, Fairfield knocked off cross town rival, Sacred Heart, a game that the Stags had circled on their calendars at the season’s onset. Winning 4-1 made the victory much sweeter. Goalie Maddy Sposito thought that, “Sacred Heart matched our intensity well at the beginning of the game, but we just wanted it that much more. We dominated.” Sposito’s four saves propelled the Stags to victory, along with two goals from the senior leader, Nieuwenhuis. With achievement comes the responsibility to set new goals. The next step for the Stags is to make the 4-team America East Conference Tournament. Fairfield hasn’t made their conference tournament since 2001 - something Coach Kane and her seniors would like to see change. “If we’re able to win two of our conferences games, we should qualify,” remarked Coach Kane in reference to the conference tournament. “The seniors came in the year we joined America East, and it has been a shared goal to make it to the tournament since.” During the past week’s hot streak the Stags showed they could both come back from an early deficit as well as grabbing an early lead and holding on for the win. Nieuwenhuis stated “It’s a test of the team’s character to come back when you get down, which we did [against Missouri State and Lehigh], but it can be just as challenging to hold onto an early lead [against Sacred Heart and Siena]. Joey [Civico] was yelling at us ‘Treat it like it’s nil-nil!’ late in the game against Sacred Heart. It’s important to keep the intensity up.” Coach Kane and her team begin America East play October 2 at home against Boston University at 2 p.m. Come out and support the school’s fastest improving squad as they go after their ticket to the conference tournament. Last week’s success was only the beginning to what is surely going to be a breakout season.
Sports | 24
Online New and improved sports blog. Online only coverage. Week of Sept. 22, 2010
fairfieldmirror.com
Sports editors Sasha Campbell and Kristen Golen » sports@fairfieldmirror.com
Outrunning The Competition Stags Place 13th Overall at Iona Meet
Top: Senior Ben Heslin, Freshman Howie Rosas, Junior Matt Brunelle, Freshman Brian Cleary, Freshman John Lobo and SophoPeter Caty/The Mirror more Kyle Short recently competed in the Meet of Champions hosted by Iona College where they finished 13th overall. Senior Ben Heslin (below) was the first Stag to cross the finish line with an 8K time of 26:10.95. The Stags race next at the Fr. Victor Leeber, S.J. Invitational this Saturday at Lessing Field.
By Sasha Campbell Sports editor The Fairfield men’s cross country team outran plenty of competition this past weekend at the Meet of Champions hosted by Iona College. The Stags placed an impressive 13th overall finish, at the 16th Annual Br. John "Paddy" Doyle/Iona College Meet of Champions at Van Cortlandt Park. Benjamin Heslin '11 (Kensington, Conn.) had an especially great race, as he was the first Stag to cross the finish line. He finished the 8K in a time of 26:10.95 to place 39th overall out of 207 runners. Not only did he finish high among the competition, he also recorded the fastest time ever by a Stag at Van Cortlandt Park. The previous best was 26:34.0 set by Ian MacNeill at the 1996 MAAC Championship. A rookie Stag who performed well above expectations was Howie Rosas '14 (Chestnut Ridge, N.J.) who recorded the second-fastest Fairfield performance ever at Van Cortlandt Park, finishing with a time of 26:18.08 to place 55th overall. Other impressive finishers were Matt Brunelle '12 (Oakham, Mass.), rookies Brian Cleary '14 (Ridgewood, N.J.), John Lobo '14 (Baltimore, Md.) and Kyle Short '12 (Scottsdale, Ariz.). Brunelle, Cleary, Lobo and Short all posted all-time top-20 times by Fairfield runners at Van Cortlandt. Brunelle finished in 26:36.05, Cleary in 26:48.23, Lobo in 26:55.13 and Short in 27:09.81. These top finishers were followed by their fellow Stag teammates who helped add depth to the already impressive line up. Vin Ferrer '12 (Belford, N.J.) ran a time of 27:50.94 while Greg Chase '13 (Bristol, Conn.) finished in 28:00.95. Dylan Fisher '12 (Peterborough, N.H.) finished in a time of 29:33.23 while Ernie Lustenring '12 (Massapequa, N.Y.) finished in 29:51.75. The Stags will host the Fr. Victor F. Leeber, S.J. Invitational this Saturday. Both the men’s and women’s side hope to keep up the momentum and continue to improve as their season continues.
Right: Senior Ben Heslin finished his 8K at the Iona College Meet of Champions with a time of 26:10.95 and placed 39th out of 207 runners. With his 8K time, Heslin set a new Stag record for the course, which was previously held by Ian MacNeill who ran a 26:34.0 in the 1996 MAAC Championship.
InsideSPORTS:
Peter Caty/The Mirror
3x5 Sports Columnists p. 21 . Field Hockey Starts Off Season Strong p.23 NFL Thoughts by FItz P. 21