FREE | Take one Week of October 5, 2011 | Vol. 37, Iss 5
NEWS: Who is Sam Borden? p.5
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The
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The Independent Student Newspaper of Fairfield University
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By Richard O’Connor Staff Writer While at the surface Lara Logan exemplifies the paragon of femininity, underneath she possesses a quiet confidence, indomitable spirit, and unparalleled human understanding that has, without a doubt, enabled her to become so successful as a news correspondent. Last Monday night in the Quick Center, as part of the Open VISIONS Forum’s Sixth Annual Students’ Forum, Logan gave a lecture concerning her time as a foreign
On The Front Lines:
news correspondent as well as the current state of affairs in the Middle East, before fielding questions from a panel of students, followed by questions from the audience. Logan began her career as a journalist in her hometown of Durban, South Africa before becoming a freelance journalist, covering such international stories as the 1998 U.S. Embassy bombing in Nairobi, the conflict in Northern Ireland, and the Kosovo war. In 2002 she was offered a correspondent position with CBS News after which she spent time report-
ing from war zones in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2006, Logan was promoted to CBS Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent and has also been the recipient of many awards in journalism. The lecture took form in a series of stories from her times as a correspondent, most of which were about her travels in Iraq and Afghanistan. From spending time with U.S. armed forces in Iraq, befriending Afghan soldiers, to having a drinking session with Afghani generals, Logan’s stories brought forward issues of being a woman in the world of journalism,
The Reflection of Fairfield
women’s rights in the Middle East, and the importance of cultivating relationships and conveying the human element when reporting a story. She expounded on the fact tha not just being a female journalist but a “feminine” journalist was difficult at times. “It was frowned upon to be a feminine woman,” said Logan. “You could be a woman if you acted like the guys. I remember being told that no one with my hair will ever be taken seriously on
Logan | page 5
OPINION: Say Goodbye to the gold p.6
Contributed Photo
celebrating lgbtq p. 7
Tom McKiver/The Mirror
Lara Logan captivates the audience at the Quick Center on Tuesday, October 3,2011 describing her adventures and as CBS Chief Foreign News Correspondent.
Prez Ball Experiments, Reviews are Mixed By Maggie Andrew Contributing Writer
Tom McKiver/The Mirror
Sports: Confidence through the roof for red hot stags p.16
Amanda McKelvey/Contributed Photo
Index Opinion • Page 6 The Vine • Page 7 Coffee Break • Page 13 Sports • Page 16
It’s that time of the year again: more students than usual riding the Stag statue on the way to Bellarmine lawn, calls from neighboring houses complaining of the noise, and a trash bag full of forgotten heels at Public Safety. Not even a rain delay could hinder the celebratory spirit surrounding the 7th Annual Presidential Ball last Friday night. FUSA introduced a new theme and new food options this year while maintaining the traditions, both official and customary, that make Prez Ball the event of the year. Picture with Father von Arx? Check. Crowded dance floors? Check. Piles of shoes under every table? Check. Most notably absent was the photographer, who in the past took a picture of each group posing with Father von Arx. More than a few confused and disoriented students stood on the porch, waiting for a camera that never came. The photo booth
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Engaging the Butt
Fairfield University changes its tours, encourages visitors to take a seat By Margot da Cunha Contributing Writer “Engage the butt!” Huh? Did she just say BUTT? This is just one of the many tidbits of advice that was given to new and continuing Fairfield University tour ambassadors who volunteer at least one hour a week out of their busy schedules to show prospective students Fairfield’s eye-catching campus. Tour guide supervisor and Fairfield University alumni Ally Montany explained to the group ambassadors that “engaging the butt”or allowing the visitors to sit down during the touring process will change their perspective leading them to
re-focus their attention on you. Montany, who describes herself as a “cheerleader” to her ambassadors, decided to re-vamp the tour program with her own personal style. “We have seen that the guests don’t remember the statistics, like a 12:1 student to faculty ratio, as much as they remember the stories the ambassador tells after they tell the statistic,” she said. As tour ambassadors came back for another year with the good-old Stags they all were required to take part in a two-part training, whether a veteran to the program or a newbie. Part one consisted of motivational speaker from TargetX, a college consulting company. The speaker gave a lively, interac-
Fairfield Website/Contributed Photo
Group Guided Tour to Potential Fairfield University Students
tive presentation to ambassadors, encouraging them to make their tour an experience rather than simply a tour packed full of statistics. What inspired the decision to alter the program? Montany explained, “Everybody who had the program before did a great job running it. We all have different styles, though, and I decided to bring my own style to it.” The second training, led by Montany, brought tour ambassadors on the new tour route, where Montany stopped at each tour location and put each ambassador on the spot by saying, “Hey, Bob, tell me a personal memory that you have about Barone Campus Center.” Stories, stories, and more stories! Montany provided a few examples. You could share the time when your Spanish professor assisted in helping you recover from the “culture shock” after going abroad by treating you to a Spanish meal in downtown Fairfield. You could also share the time your favorite professor kicked you out of class for wearing, that ever so ugly, pair of UGG boots; UGGS are evidently not allowed in his classroom (all you communication majors know who I’m
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The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
News
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Contributed Photos
Last Weeks Highlights: Presidential Ball 2011
Check out other missed events from this past week at Fairfieldmirror.com Want to see your club event photos in the Mirror email them to: page2@fairfieldmirror.
By Farheen Khan Contributing Writer
“It Takes a Village” to Reunite a Community
This Thursday, October 6 at 5 p.m., Mack McClendon, a community organizer from New Orleans, will be on campus in 70 McCormick Rd. to discuss his experiences during Hurricane Katrina and his efforts to rebuild his neighborhood by creating a new community center in the heavily affected Lower Ninth Ward. When Hurricane Katrina made landfall in 2005, it caused breeches in at least four canals, leading to catastrophic flooding in the majority of the city when the floodwall meant to protect the city was knocked down by a runaway barge. While the disaster that Hurricane Katrina caused is six years behind us, the storm’s aftereffects are still felt very much today.
More than 15,000 individuals were forced to evacuate the city and many of those victims still have not been able to return to their homes – sometimes because many homes are no longer there. McClendon saw the problem of neighbors being scattered throughout the city, the country and the world and wanted to help to bring them all back together. He has worked over the past few years to convert an old warehouse in the neighborhood into a vibrant community center. The Village offers a computer lab, a kitchen, a small library facility, a conference area and a housing space. Outside community members can work on a garden, perform on an outdoor stage, or shoot around a basketball area. According to their website, the Lower 9th Ward Village is “a communitydriven, community-led non-profit” organization that was created in
order “to bring together the entire Lower 9th Ward and to empower community members to be selfsufficient and to sustain an equitable quality of life.” Come join other Fairfield University students in welcoming one of the community members who made it possible for Katrina victims to still be able to live as a community instead of being scattered as a result of the storm. If it wasn’t for the Lower Ninth Ward Village that he helped to build, the Lower Ninth Ward may have become completely abandoned without any hope of a proper restoration. His actions just go on to show that one person can make a difference in everyone’s lives. Mack will be speaking at 70 McCormick Road on the First Floor Commons. His lecture will be followed by an information session on some Spring Break trip oppor-
tunities to New Orleans through the Peace and Justice Department. Free dinner will be provided and
any freshman that decides to attend can be reassured that this will be an opportunity for FYE credit.
Daniella Corea/Contributed Photo
The new mural , part of which was painted by Fairfield University students, helps decorate the front of the Lower 9th Ward Village Center.
The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
News
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Can I See Your Guest Pass?
By Luigi Dimeglio Contributing Writer
Some Fairfield students are glad to know that it was not their average shenanigans with visiting friends that created the need for a revamped guest policy. According to Associate Director of Public Safety Frank Ficko, the biggest indicator of the need for a change in the guest policy was what happened when most students had retired to their beds for the night. Specifically, it was, “the frequency of Residence Life and Public Safety encountering non-students wandering aimlessly around campus during all hours of the night,” Ficko said. Often times, these non-students would claim to not know the location of their host. Ficko said, “The problem becomes compounded when the individual is involved in an incident, requires medical assistance, or refuses to provide proper identification.” Already this semester, the Department of Public Safety has had to call Fairfield Police to arrest two unregistered guests and impound the car of another who was driving intoxicated on campus. The Department of Public Safety in combination with the offices of the Dean of Students and Residence Life, have made an effort to reduce the number of incidents like these by altering the Guest Policy in the Student Handbook. It now explicitly mentions the requirement of students to register guests online on an all-new form. The form itself consists of 12-labeled blank spaces where the Fairfield University student host is to indicate the guests’
identity and basic plans, such as arrival and departure dates. Last semester, a form requiring the same information was the standard for guest visitation, yet it had to be obtained by a Residence
an RA a little easier. Adam Powers ‘13, an RA in Loyola Hall said, “I think the new way to get guest passes is great, except that no one knows how it works yet. All I’ve gotten is residents
rules of the guest policy, such as “student hosts must be with their guests at all times,” and “violations of the guest policy may result in a minimal fine of $100...” are available only on the Student Life “About Us” webpage on the Fairfield University website. The new guest pass also has benefits that are still largely unknown to the student population. For example, when placed on a guest’s dashboard, it serves as a temporary parking pass; thus eliminating the need to obtain one in person from the DPS office, as was the case last semester. Amid the ups and downs of the policy change, the student response is mixed. Rayan Graham ‘14 said about the changes, “It’s too much of a hassle for someone to have to pay $100 in fines in case their guest loses the form, but it’s a good idea that they incorporated the parking pass part into it. What I think should be done is a temporary ID day-pass like the kind they had when I visited St. Johns University and UConn.” Not all highly violated policies are new. One of them that need not confuse students is found on page 38 of the student handbook. It requires that all students have their Stagcard on them at all times. This policy has not changed in several years. Conversely, the rule about guests being required to have proper identification on them at all times is new. One thing is clear about the changes. Most in the university community can agree that they are positive. “It’s good that they’re beefing up security,” said Graham.
Fairfield Website/Contributed Photo
The Student Handbook policies are available at Farifield.edu
Life employee, such as a Residence Assistant (RA) or Area Coordinator (AC). Also, the host could not fill out the form if their guest was not the same gender. The old form also required the host RA’s signature, whereas the new form is directly submitted online; making the life of
coming to ask me about it.” Indeed, it cannot be expected for all students to know exactly what the new policies are considering that only one brief, official e-mail was sent. All it provided was a link to the form online. The most frequently-violated
By FUSA Columnist
To Our Fellow Students, The Senate Elections for the Class of 2015 took place this past Tuesday, October 4th. However, due to an error on our part, as the Fairfield University Student Association, we have decided to render this election invalid. This decision was made by the F.U.S.A. Executive Council in conjunction with the F.U.S.A Director of Elections. After careful investigation and consideration, we have found that the election left some candidates at a disadvantage. In order to ensure fairness to all candidates, there will be a reelection on Thursday, October 6th from 10:00 AM- 7:30 PM, in the Lower Level BCC. Sohail Sumra ‘15, one of the candidates running for Senate, said, “I think they handled the situation very well . We’re all looking forward to the next election on Thursday.” We apologize for the inconvenience that this has caused the Class of 2015, and would like to encourage everyone to come out to recast their votes. Sincerely, Your Fairfield University Student Association
Prez Ball Re-Cap
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that was a major attraction of last top crashing to the floor, but even year’s dance was also MIA. this incident didn’t stop the party The new additions that did for long. The exorbitant number make the list included a recomof people on the dance floor apmendation to wear white and a peared to approve of the music and sushi bar. The invitation and many the dancing continued throughout signs across campus suggested the event. students wear white to glow in Students are already offerthe dark, but for some, the news ing up suggestions for next year’s came too late, while others were music choices, though, with perplexed by this anti-climatic anMichele Picarro ‘ 14 suggesting, “It nouncement. would be cool if they tried using a “I didn’t see the point, no one Fairfield student as a DJ, because was really glowthey know what ing. It was a cool I didn’t see the point. kind of music we idea to have it listen to.” No one was really be glow-in-theWristglowing. dark, but maybe bands replaced they should have -Shannon Finnegan ‘14 tickets this year, added more black which proved a lights,” said Shanconvenience for non Finnegan ’14. students who have a tendency to “It’s hard to find white dresses forget or misplace the thin piece this time of year, and I had already of paper on the long trek up to packed my outfit to bring to Bellarmine. It is one less thing to school,” Krista Charles ’14 added. remember on a night when people The sushi bar was a major slip down the hill, completely attraction for those with more disregarding the new pair of shoes refined tastes, but many were they left in the tent. nostalgic for last year’s chocolate Critiques and suggestions fountain. aside, the night always proves to “I was most looking forward be one of the most memorable to the chocolate fountain, and I of the year, with pictures that will searched the tent for 20 minutes find their way onto your dorm but it wasn’t there,” said Annie Mcroom walls. Chocolate or sushi, Menamin ’14. “Chocolate is more white dresses or brightly colored universally liked than sushi.” ties, let’s face it, it’s more about the A minor slip sent the DJ’s lapexperience than the details.
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TomMcKiver/The Mirror
The entrance to campus from N.Benson Rd. after the blockade on the University’s campus was taken down.
Tear Down That Wall!
By Chelsea Whittemore Contributing Writer
Many Media Center faculty members and students were disrupted and annoyed by the newly installed blockade that limited use of the North Benson Road gate to access campus behind Xavier Hall and Fairfield Prep. The new blockade, built in August 2011, was flourishing with trees and plants and separated the Prep School and the Media Center from the rest of campus. David Frassinelli, Associate Vice President For Facilities Management, said the gate was blocked due to traffic problems associated with the Prep school overlapping with Universityrelated traffic. The changes not only affected the Prep school, but also Xavier Hall, which is the home to the Media Center. “The blockade made our whole operation less efficient and more dangerous,” said Jamie DeStefano, A.M.E.S (Academic Media Equipment Services)
manager. DeStefano had no say in the operation and only found out about it a week before it went up. “I cannot believe a consultant was paid for spawning a concept that hindered the operations of a University as well as the traffic flow on a state street,” DeStefano said. Frasinelli recognized the problem but said, “The Media Center was challenged with its vehicles. While an inconvenience or a change from the past, it was not insurmountable.” Fr. Mayzik, the Director of the Media Center, refused to comment although he reportedly played a major role to the wall being taken down. The wall was taken down last week. “Sometimes you try things, particularly ones that are inexpensive and are easy to both implement and undo if necessary, rather than come up with an elaborate and costly plan that ultimately is unsuccessful when implemented and you have no ability to adjust,” Frasinelli
said.
Audra Martin, a junior studying New Media said, “I want to know where the money for that job came from. The Media Center barely gets the funding it needs, yet we waste money essentially blocking student access to their own academic building.” “The blockade at the Media Center was more of an annoyance than anything else for us media students,” Maria Vlahos ’12, Vice President of The Ham Channel said. “We would have to exit campus and reenter just to get to class, Ham Channel meetings, or load up equipment in our cars.” “I hate that they built that blockade primarily because they paid a guy about $5,000 to tell them it was a good idea and between $10,000 to $15,000 to construct and destruct it,” said Costas Costanta ’12, who said he heard the numbers from many sources including faculty. Frasinelli did comment on the official cost of the structure.
The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
News
Page 4
Campus Crime Beat Tuesday, 9/27
9:17 p.m. One student was referred to the Dean of Students office after DPS responded to a narcotics violation in a Residence Hall.
3:01 a.m. A Criminal Trespass Warning was issued to a nonstudent who attempted to evade DPS officers during questioning. Sunday, 10/2
Wednesday, 9/28
1:03 a.m. A student was approached by DPS while urinating between two cars in the area of the Townhouses.
9:27 p.m. DPS is still investigating the report of money stolen from a backpack near Lessing Field.
1:08 a.m. DPS responded to a narcotics violation in a townhouse.
Friday, 9/30 8:49 p.m. A stop sign was discovered to be missing from the intersection of Lynch Road and Stuart Way. Facilities management was notified.
3:03 a.m. Exposed wires and broken glass were visible in 51 McInnes after two Exit signs were found vandalized.
5:24 p.m. After stepping away for a few moments, a student’s textbook was reported stolen from a table in the library.
10:42 p.m. A large hole was found in the drywall at the bottom of the west staircase at 42 Bellermine Road. Facilities management was notified.
Saturday, 10/1 1:31 a.m. The Dean of Students office received a student referral for the throwing of a beverage can from a car window into a crowd of people in the area of the Townhouses.
Monday, 10/3 3:50 p.m. Two Fairfield Prep students admitted to “horsing around” and breaking a glass display case in Alumni Hall
Classifieds
Mirror Picks of the Week!
Wednesday October 5 Teach for America Information Session at 5 p.m. in the Kelly Center Conference Room
Thursday October 6LGBTQ History Month Keynote Featuring LZ Granderson in the Kelley Center Multimedia Room from 7-9 p.m. Friday October 7Men’s Soccer Game vs. Canisus at 6 p.m. on Lessing Field Saturday October 8Come join us for Family Fun Day at the Bellarmine Museum of Art! 12 - 5 p.m. Sunday October 9Women’s Volleyball vs. St. Peter’s at 1 p.m. in Alumni Hall Monday October 10Columbus Day! No School, enjoy your day off!
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The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
News
Continuted From Pg. 1
Lara Logan
television.” She added, “I’ve never apologized for being a woman in my business.” Keeping with the theme of women’s equality, one of the student panelists asked Logan about the treatment of women in Saudi Arabia. She replied, “I’ve had people lecture me and tell me that Saudi women may not be able to drive but they actually own most of the businesses in Saudi Arabia, and they’re economically empowered... And I have to say at the end of the day, my truly honest opinion is that I don’t care how you dress it up… I think it’s a pretty bleak outlook for women in the Middle East.” The Mirror was able to have a brief interview with Logan at the conclusion of the lecture and asked how she is able to bring out the human element in the story. The advice given transcended its usefulness in reporting and gave insight to becoming a better human being in general. “I don’t separate the job from the person… the story is never more important to me than my own values. I have to live with myself long before I have to have a story. Sometimes all you can offer people is that you’re prepared to listen. You know, that you’re really listening, that you’re not just pretending to listen.” The Open VISIONS Forum continues to have recognized guest lecturers for the remainder of the academic year; the next set to take place Wednesday, October 19th at 8 p.m.
Sam Borden’s Take on Technology New York Times Sports Reporter tells Fairfield students the changes that future journalists face in the industry
By Danica Ceballos Associate News Editor
and utilize all forms of social media. “Always be thinking, ‘what else can I add to my skill set?’”
be first…but you also have to be right.” Journalists must develop Facebook. Twitter. Blogs. thick skin, according to BorTechnology changes den, knowing that criticism the face of journalism every is part of the trade. One day, no longer giving aspirway to avoid controversy ing reporters the luxury of is to steer clear of conflict becoming narrow specialof interest. “The ultimate ists or doing the same job passion is the craft, not the their predecessors did, subject,” states Borden. according to experienced Borden graduated New York City sports refrom Emory University porter, Sam Borden. with a Bachelor’s Degree in “Be available, be willEnglish and Jewish Studies. ing to do anything, and Originally, he expected to work hard at finding conteach English to high school nections,” Borden told a or college students after Fairfield University’s News graduation. Writing class Sept. 26. Instead, by April 2002, Just a few years ago, he was named a sports Borden said he would colreporter for the New York lect information all day, Daily News, and as of Auand then post a single news gust 2011, Borden is a sports story at night for the next reporter for The New York day’s newspaper. That kind Times. of delay of information to Ultimately, Borden the public would be unacContributed Photo advises students “Don’t be ceptable in 2011. Sam Borden:New York Times sports reporter. afraid of your own voice.” He Instead, journalists encourages writers to stick to are expected to immediately Borden advised. The incretheir style and adapt to a jourtweet, post information on mental process of journalism, nalist lifestyle working to “be Facebook or upload an audio visible to the public, puts a great every single day.” clipping. With these demands, new pressure on journalists. Borden said that it is essential Borden explained, “You have for journalists to be versatile to be fast because you have to
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Tour Guide
talking about!) Perkowski describes his touring technique, “I try to show them that college is more than simply books and partying but a true educational and growing experience that more prospective students should be able to relate to.” Fairfield is not the only university renovating its program. According to an article by Rebecca Kern for US News, eight schools have added additional tours that do not involve walking. Kern reported that Alfred University in Alfred, NY, now offers a unique biking tour involving a constructed bike that holds seven visitors, aligning them in circle formation (adding to the interactive experience), with pedals at their feet to contribute to the movement of the tour bike. Kern also found universities offering boat tours, golf tours, and self-guided tours via GPS or iPhone application. Fairfield Admissions plans on having a competition to form a memory in the visitor’s mind and even reward an outstanding ambassador. A competition for who can take the most creative picture with Fairfield’s prized Stag statue will now be included in each tour. The winner will receive some form of prize. With these small, but key changes, will admission tours increase in positive outcomes? Greg Jensen ‘12, tour ambassador manager, thinks yes. “They’re taking an already great program and making it an exceptional one. They’re really allowing each tour group to get to know the tour guide and Fairfield in a different light.”
The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
Opinion
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editorial
Career Fair Unfair?
Mikaela Tierney | Gabriella Tutino | Charlotte Adinolfi| Martin O'Sullivan|
Editor Martin O'Sullivan info@fairfieldmirror.com
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Editor-in-Chief Executive Editor Managing Editor Opinion Editor
Career planning tells the students that they are available to help all majors on campus, yet when the first Career Fair rolled around last Thursday, all there seemed to be were business companies. As students in the school of the College of Arts and Sciences, we were pretty disappointed. It seems that the University assumed that as students of the College of Arts and Sciences, we will end up as teachers, so therefore we did not need to make any contacts at the Career Fair. This being said, there were over 80 companies at the Fair but more was left to be desired. Yes, we could have gone and talked with the business companies represented and practiced our interviewing skills, but we would have liked some more help. For example, the career fair website listed ten different job categories at the event: Accounting, Computer Science/Engineering, Consulting, Education, Financial Services, Government and Non-profit, Human Resources, Management, Marketing/Communications, Sales and Internships. But what can a biology major get out of that, where are the museums or art galleries for the art history major and how hard would it be to bring the Connecticut Post for those journalism majors? Within the English Department alone, we have visiting professors constantly coming in from local newspapers and local magazines. These types of connections should make it easy for those planning the Career Fair to help cover more avenues for students. We are sure that other departments have similar set-ups with adjunct professors and visiting ones as well. We suggest Career Planning look into working with these departments - or what about our wealth of alumni? Moving into the end of our college career, we have worked hard to keep our grades up, be involved on campus and make contacts along the way. The Career Fair would be a wonderful addition to this work but the companies brought into the stuffy room in the RecPlex weren’t much help. Maybe if the Career Fair helped us get jobs, we could be those connections for Career Fairs in the future. The Mirror welcomes the opinions and contributions of its readers: Letters to the editor must be timely and submitted by email at info@ fairfieldmirror.com or Box AA All letters to the editor that are appropriate will be published either in print or online. The Mirror reserves the right to edit letters and articles for content, length and grammatical error. Letters should be free of obscenities and personal attacks, and should contain correct and factual information not exceeding 500 words.
• Arrested Development is coming back for another season... and a movie!
• Three-day weekend. Vincent Ferrer/The Mirror
Are you planning on going home this Columbus Day weekend or taking advantage of an empty campus? Have an opinion? Send it to info@fairfieldmirror.com.
Say Goodbye to the Gold
By Erin Eife and Hillary Taverna Contributing Writers
Along with the hike in parking ticket fines, the likelihood of obtaining one of these orange surpises is now on the rise for the Class of 2012. Seniors in the Village area are restricted to a parking row next to the apartments, the back corner of the Quick Center lot, and the Bellarmine lot, which is about a 10-minute walk from the apartments. But on Tuesday of this week, parking for residential seniors was further restricted as several rows of the gold zone in the Quick Center lot were “given back” to the Quick Center. For the seniors who use this parking lot every day, it is common for the back corner of the lot to be full of student cars and the rest, set aside for patrons, to be desolate. So the question is: Why the change? It seems as though students need more spaces, yet the number provided continues to be reduced. When asked about the change, a member of the parking office simply replied, “The decision has been made." It seems as though the only decision that has been
made is that the comfort of Quick Center patrons has trumped the safety of Fairfield University seniors. As students, we live here seven days a week, attending classes and participating in extracurricular activities. Quick Center patrons come to campus once a week to attend an event that may last a few hours. So where is the moral obligation that Fairfield has to its students when considering their safety needs? If students have responsibly volunteered to be designated drivers for their friends, should they have to risk their safety by taking the poorly lit walk from the Bellarmine lot at 2 a.m.? There are many elderly patrons who attend these events, and undoubtedly these patrons should be able to park as close as possible to the Quick Center. But why can’t those who are able-bodied park at the two other lots that are just as close? As seniors at Fairfield, we have noticed many changes about the parking policies at our school over the years. Most notable is the increase of both parking fines ($20 to $40) and parking permits ($80 to $120). Sophomore year,
the administration decided that we would no longer be permitted to bring our cars onto campus. As juniors, we were forced to walk across the townhouses from the Dolan lot. And now as seniors living in the apartments, our spots are being given away to people who do not need them. According to the 20112012 parking flyer, "Fairfield University appreciates the cooperation and courtesy shown by students, employees, and visitors who observe established parking and traffic regulations." Seniors have cooperated for three years– where's the appreciation? As a wise superhero once said, “With power comes great responsibility.” It seems as though we are held to be responsible adults. So when it comes to decisions such as these, where is our power?
Need to register your car? Have an outstanding parking ticket? Visit the parking office in the basement of Loyola (next to Public Safety) and don't forget to bring your Stagcard.
Notable and Quotables: “Sometimes all you can offer people is that you're prepared to listen. You know, that
• Prez Ball was a success by most accounts.
• Nice weather on the way.
• Apple released the iPhone 4S this week.
• Average sunset is now at 6:20 p.m.
• Anyone with an internship next Tuesday has to skip their Monday schedule classes.
• No Mirror next week.
• Turn on the heat! The apartments are freezing.
you're really listening, that you're not just pretending to listen." - Lara Logan, Chief Foreign Affairs Correspondent for CBS, story on page 1
• Broken exit signs in McInnes. Brace yourself for the damage charges.
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The Vine
{The Vine} LGBTQ
History
Month
By Ashley Zangara Vine Editor
Fourteen-year-old Jamey Rodemeyer recently rocked the nation with Illustration By Tebben Lopez Asst. Vine Editor
his devastating suicide. Rodemeyer took his own life this past September in response to cruel bullying by peers because of his sexual orientation. Rodemeyer’s death should not go unnoticed.
Thursday, Oct. 6 LGBTQ History Month Keynote featuring LZ Granderson, Kelley Center Presentation Room LZ Granderson, a gay sports writer for ESPN magazine and ESPN.com, will talk about his life journey and struggles that helped him get to the position he is in today. Recently named Journalist of the Year by the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Assosciation, Granderson also acquired esteemed recognition by The Human Rights Campaign and The Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation. After the talk, a social will take place in the Kelly Center lobby. Refreshments will be provided.
October marks LGBTQ History Month. LGBTQ stands for "lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning” people and has been in effect since the 90's. Fairfield University offers a list of events to celebrate and learn about the LGBTQ community on campus. These events have been created in the hopes of bringing students, faculty, staff and alumni together in order to get a better understanding of the LGBTQ community and gain a deeper appreciation for its members. All the events, which include films, speakers, panels and socials begin on Oct. 6 and are free and open to the public.
Thursday, Oct. 13 Graphic Artists Panel featuring Tim Fish & Abby Denson, 42 BRD Dining Commons Tim Fish is best known for gay romance series Cavalcade Of Boys and its succeeding graphic novels. He also has comic book stories that have been published by Marvel Comics and Oni Press. Abby Denson, a Lulu winning cartoonist, is the creator of the graphic novels Dolltopia and Tough Love: High School Confidential. Denson scripted comics for Amazing SpiderMan family, Powerpuff Girls Comics, Simpsons Comics, and many more.
Wednesday, Oct. 19
Saturday, Oct. 29
LGBTQ Activism Workshop, BCC 200
The Care of Souls: Sexual Diversity, Celibacy and Ministry, DSB Dining Room
Jason Kelliher from The Human Rights Campaign will work with students in a hands-on workshop to prepare them for working for change now and after they leave Fairfield University.
“Care of Souls” conference speaks about the roles and responsibilities of Catholics who are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender in the Church’s ministries. For more information on this event visit www.morethanamonologue.org.
All Love: An LGBTQ Film Series Thursday, Oct. 20
Thursday, Oct. 17 Dr. Hugo Benavides, Library Media Room Professor of Ethnic Studies at Fordham University, Dr. Hugo Benavides, will speak to guests about Gloria Anzaldua’s semi-autobiographical book, La Frontera.
Out at the Workplace: An LGBT Alumni Group Panel, BCC 200 Fairfield University alumni will talk with students about being openly gay in the workplace and recommend approaches to a successful career while embracing diversity.
For three consecutive Tuesdays, Fairfield University will be showing a film series dedicated to LGBTQ. All films are free and open to the public. Screenings will take place in DiMenna-Nyselius Multimedia Auditorium on the lower level of the library. Light refreshments will also be served. Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. : Brother to Brother Tuesday, Oct. 18 at 7 p.m. : The Incredibly True Adventure of 2 Girls in Love Tuesday, October 25 at 7 p.m. : American Experience: Stonewall Uprising
The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
The Vine
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Savage Love on the Catholic Church Dan Savage humors audience about his Catholic upbringing and strives to change how the Catholic Church regards LGBTQ people. By Loan Le Vine Director
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n openly gay and popular syndicated sex columnist was raised in a Roman Catholic family and at one point attended a school for men looking to become priests. When he admitted his sexuality to his mother, he thought, like other members of the gay community, that he was saying he wouldn’t get married and that he wouldn’t be able to provide her grandchildren. Today, he’s gay, he’s married and he’s raising a child with his husband. Now he’s making his case for homosexuality against the Catholic Church. The Catholic Church should change its negative opinion of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning people (LGBTQ), said Dan Savage in his keynote address for the “Pro-Queer Life” conference on Saturday. Fairfield University provided transportation for students to see him speak at Union Theological Seminary in New York. Even though many Catholic institutions have expressed positive views and acceptance towards LGBTQ people, Savage wanted to speak against the remaining opponents in the Catholic Church. He denounced the Bible as a credible source of model behavior, saying that sins, like masturbation, premarital sex and use of condoms and birth pills, once so adamantly prohibited in the past, can no longer be judged by the authorities of the church. “We have got to ignore the b------t in the Bible about gay people, just as we’ve learned to ignore what the b-------t in the Bible have said about women … about polyester, about farming and about slavery,” said Savage. Priests cannot see the sins of people, and according to Savage, homosexuality cannot be so easily judged from the outside. “They can’t see past our homosexuality to see our shared and common humanity, which is hugely ironic considering how many of those priests behind those pulpits are gay,” he said. LGBTQ people continue to face much external conflict, but they also face internal conflicts like faith. Still, faith can also be a source of solace. “For many LGBT people, faith is at once the affliction and the solution,” said Savage. While he still believes in some aspects of Catholicism - partially out of respect for his mother and father, who were active in the Catholic Church - Savage is not afraid to express his negative impression of other people who have made homophobic remarks based on their religious beliefs. He called Tony Perkins, president of Family Research Council, and Maggie Gal-
lagher, a well-known syndicate columnist, both of whom oppose same-sex marriage, ‘vile’ people. Besides religion, Savage also talked briefly about his It Gets Better Project, which began in 2010 and has had great success in the past year. According to Savage, It Gets Better is saving many lives by allowing people to help other LGBTQ peers through videos. The overall objective of the project is to tell LGBTQ youth struggling with identity and facing bullies that “there is enough joy that will compensate for the pain,” Savage said. Savage views bullying as a cause of suicide but notes other factors are just as important to consider. Negative parental involvement is just as powerful and hurtful as cyber bullying and physical bullying. “There are kids who, at the end of the day, go home to no one,” said Savage. The project is also shattering “the old order,” when homosexuality was suppressed and when people believed LGBTQ adults were recruiting people to their cause,. Savage’s keynote speech was met with a standing ovation. Savage became popular for his sex advice column “Savage Love,” which runs in The Stranger, a Seattle-based newspaper. Since 1991, he has become a powerful speaker for LGBTQ rights, including samesex marriage. Meredith Marquez, assistant director of Student Diversity Programs, felt Savage’s speech was a fitting opener for LGBTQ History month. “I feel like while we’re celebrating LGBTQ people of America,” she said, “One of the pressing things that’s going on right now … are the suicides that have been happening. This event allows students to go and hear from probably the most popular and the funniest—definitely the funniest—and, I would argue, the most effective person to talk about this issue.” Marquez also noted that the conversation between homosexuals and the Church needs to continue. “To [Fairfield University], being Catholic is being accepting,” she said. “That’s how we can be the best Catholic institution if we live up to that mission. [It] is to be the most accepting that you can of all people. I am hoping that little messages will get through and it’s things like these that I would love all students will come to.” This event was part of "More Than a Monologue: Sexual Di-
Dan Savage "For many LGBT people, faith is at once the affliction and the solution."
Loan Le/The Mirror
Fairfield University students were able to hear Dan Savage speak at the Union Theological Seminary and had a chance to take photos with him (bottom).
versity and the Catholic Church, an effort by two Roman Catholic universities and two non-denominational divinity schools to spark conversation about sexual diversity and the Catholic Church’s relation to the controversial topic. On Oct. 29, Fairfield will host its part
of More Than a Monologue with a “Care of Souls” conference. The event will address the responsibilities of LGBTQ Catholics in educating and spreading awareness and making the issue relevant in their communities.
The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
The Vine
LGBTQ Film Flashback: "Latter Days" By Annemarie Veira Staff Writer
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he story of “Latter Days” is emotional and utterly inspiring. Based on life experiences of writer and director C. Jay Cox, the story starts when Christian Markelli (Ramsey), who is a wild party animal and openly gay, meets Aaron Davis (Sandvoss), a Mormon missionary from Idaho. At work, Christian begins talking with his co-workers about whether or not they believed in God. Convinced that Christian has it bad for a boy that they think he won’t be able to get, a bet is placed that for $50 that Christian won’t be able to sleep with Aaron. Christian accepts the bet without question, convinced that he’s undeniable, having never been rejected by a man. Christian thinks seducing Davis will be easy. After many attempts, Christian fails to get Aaron at an opportune moment to seduce him. However, his chance comes after he cuts himself on a pipe outside of his home fainting at the sight of his own blood. Aaron witnesses the incident and comes to Christian’s aide by helping him inside and patching him up. In doing so, Christian convinces Aaron to help him to the bedroom, to lie down after the ordeal, and this is where Christian makes his move - and his mistake. In the midst of the moment, Christian makes a big mistake telling Aaron that a possible hook-up doesn’t have to mean anything. Shocked by the comment Aaron calls Christian out: first, for finding out his secret that he is gay. Secondly, calling Christian out for not believing in anything but shallow things thus stating to Christian, “You’re like a walking, talking marshmallow peep.” Aaron storms out, leaving Christian in a state of shock. His shock is not only from rejection but from a judg-
ment, though hurtful, was true and it forces him to evaluate his life. Christian comes to change some of his behavior, while Aaron, after his verbal confession, is fighting internally to deal with his secret hidden among the other missionaries. He begins falling for the new and improved Christian, because he sees Christian is growing. Aaron, however, is busted when he and Christian are caught kissing each other by Aaron’s roommates. This results in Aaron not only being sent home, but excommunicated by his church and practically disowned by his family. This film is one of the most powerful movies I have ever seen . The cast is amazing, as was the story. It is sad that this still happens to many closeted members of the LBGT community. The interesting thing was to set up the story with the two main characters representing the writer at two different points in his life. His main goal was to see what would happen when you have these two men alone in a room together is very cool. This film tackles the ideas of what love is and what sex means. It deals with issues of sexual identity, religious beliefs and family issues. One of the major questions the characters deal with is whether or not events and people may be destined to be in our lives to help people become who they are. With this being LGBTQ History Month, if you haven’t seen this film, I highly recommend you see it. It opens up any member of the audience to a different look on life. “Latter Days” is available on Netflix for streaming, along with Digital download, and rental through Amazon.com. The DVD is also available on Amazon.
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Contributed Photo
"Latter Days" (2003) explores homosexuality and love.
From College Mixing to Crowd Pumping By Lindsay Maida Contributing Writer
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n a typical Sunday night, most students convene in the library as they prep themselves for the strenuous week ahead. However, this past Sunday night, rap groups The Dean’s List and OnCue performed at Toad’s Place in New Haven, Conn. for a night that will be remembered by all who attended. Toad’s Place, a very well-known music hall, has been identified as the place “where the legends play” since 1975. Multiple concerts take place every week- mainly on weeknights- where up-and-coming artists have the ability to perform, with the guarantee of receiving a relatively intimate, but lively crowd. The Pledge To Rage Tour, presented by Nue Agency and Good Music All Day, began in early September, featuring The Dean’s List and OnCue. Both of these rap groups direct their style towards “college music” and undoubtedly have the ability to pump up a crowd of people. The Dean’s List is a rap group based out of Boston, MA, composed of Sonny Shotz (songwriter/rapper), DJ Mendoza (production editor), and Mik Beats (production/mixing engineer). The group is becoming increasingly popular among college students and for The Dean’s List, as DJ Mendoza stated, “the dorm room is where it all started.” However, since their “dorm room days,” The Dean’s List has created two mixtapes “Undeclared” and “The Drive-In, ” which have both exceeded all expectations. Therefore, it is safe to say that The Dean’s List has definitely mastered their flow and quality of sound. After spending the past month touring up and down the east coast, The Pledge To Rage tour arrived in New Haven, CT, where The Dean’s List prepared to perform at Toad’s Place for the second time in the past two months.
When The Dean’s List was on tour earlier this year with the Animal House Tour, they enjoyed performing at Toad’s Place and immediately requested to return for The Pledge To Rage Tour. OnCue opened for The Dean’s List and began the night by performing a handful of songs, along with a few new songs, to pump up the crowd. After the appearance by OnCue, a small intermission took place before The Dean’s List took the stage. The Dean’s List began their performance with their song “All System’s Go,”which features OnCue. Because of the relatively small crowd that was attracted on a Sunday night, The Dean’s List was able to put on an intimate show, allowing fans to rap in their microphone and ask for song requests. There was a very personal feel to the concert because of the fact that many fans were standing mere inches away for the artists. Of course, as the night drew to a close, The Dean’s List concluded with their most well known song “Dear Professor.” DJ Mendoza recalls that after releasing their newest mixtape “The Drive-In” this past February, “our fan base definitely increased and we were able to get to the stage where our music began to be recognized.” Their fan page on Facebook, titled “It’s the Dean’s List," received 15,000 “likes” in the months following the release of “The Drive-In.” While many fans wait for the Pledge To Rage Tour to reach them, there is a great deal of buzz surrounding the newest mixtape “Generation 3 X,” which is set to be released at the beginning of next year. For those who are high in anticipation for the release of “Generation X,” DJ Mendoza states that “our mentality for future music is ‘if it’s not broken, don’t fix it.’ We have certain standards for the mixtape and right now we are just producing music and then narrowing it down from there." Sonny Shotz said of the future of The Dean's List: “I think this is going to be our last mixtape before moving onto albums. I don’t see myself as being a ‘4 mixtape
guy’ and I don’t want to be stuck in the category of mixtapes. They are a good way to start and find yourself as an artist, but I think after Generation X, it will be time to move on." So, while you are awaiting the release of Generation X, make sure to check out future Pledge To Rage Tour locations and continue to support great music. Tom McKiver/The Mirror
1. Sonny Shotz entertains the crowd at Toad's Place. 2. The crowd gets into the mood with Shotz's rapping skills. 3. The Dean's List answers questions during the interview.
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+ Food Frenzy
Chicken Sausage Buckwheat Stir-Fry
By Margot da Cunha and Adrianna Montano Vine Columnists
Cook the buckwheat as directed on the package. After adding the buckwheat to the boiling water (as directed), add the spices and let simmer until water is absorbed. Warm up a saucepan with olive oil on medium heat. Add the garlic and onions, sauté, and then add the broccoli, zucchini, chicken sausage and spices. Cook on medium-high until the vegetables are tender (about eight minutes). Then add the tomatoes, shoots and teriyaki sauce. Cook on medium-low for one minute, then remove from heat. Take a scoop of the prepared buckwheat and then add an appropriate portion of the stir-fry on top. Bon appetit!
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Margot da Cunha and Adrianna Montano/The Mirror
A delicious mix of health and flavor.
+ Television
ince I grew up in an extremely healthcautious household, I have always been prone to shopping for organic foods. When I shop in a grocery store, I read the labels, searching for the shortest list of ingredients. Trader Joe’s has recently become my new obsession. Trader Joe’s first opened in 1957 (originally called Pronto Markets), and prides themselves on frequently buying directly from suppliers and keeping their prices as low as possible. They are true to their promise of low prices, they maintain a welcoming environment, and they have friendly, helpful employees. The only complaint I have about Trader Joe’s is there is no fresh deli and there is not a large enough fruit section (I’d also stay away from their prepared refrigeration section).
Ingredients: (Serves 3-4) For Buckwheat: 1 cup dried Eden Organic Buckwheat 1 tsp. Chicken Flavor Bouillon (or chicken broth) Dash of Salt & Pepper
For Stir-Fry: 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 1/2 tsp. Chopped Garlic ½ Onion, chopped 3 Sweet Italian Chicken Sausages (chopped into slices) 1 cup Broccoli 1 Zucchini, chopped Dash of Garlic Powder Salt & Pepper 6 Red tomatoes (mini) Organic Tea Shoots (large handful) 3 tbsp. Teriyaki sauce (or soy sauce)
The store has a notable selection of grains, dried fruit, and a variety of gourmet frozen entrees (which any college student is likely to appreciate). This simple stir-fry recipe I created after a refreshing, economical trip to Trader Joe’s. It is quick (about a 30 minute preparation time), and completely guilt-free since all the ingredients are 100% organic. I try not to overload on oil since it is high in calories, instead using sauces such teriyaki and/or soy to moisten the vegetables, and I used a grain called buckwheat. Organically grown on a family farm in South Dakota, it is a great source of fiber and protein, helping to provide amino acids and a pleasant feeling of fullness. This recipe is a delightful combination of easy, healthy, and satisfying.
Hello again, Dexter Morgan By Kevin Greener Vine Columnist The adrenaline-filled first scene to the new season of Showtime’s “Dexter” on Sunday night showed Dexter Morgan calling for an ambulance. “I—I’ve been stabbed,” he stammered. “I need help.” The ambulance arrived to America’s favorite serial killer protagonist lying down on the pavement, dying. When the paramedics knelt down next to him, Dexter jolted upright with syringes in each gloved hand to sedate both of the emergency responders. Having successfully duped the paramedics (who were getting away with letting patients die and selling their organs to a black-market doctor), he calmly explained their crimes to them before doing his own twisted justice and satisfying his inner Dark Passenger by killing them. The writers of “Dexter” did it again! Not even a full minute into the show, my heart was thumping up in my throat. I don’t care that it is bothersome to people that millions flock to their televisions each week to watch a show featuring a serial killer. It is a brilliantly written show with talented actors, and if you don’t like it you can go back to watching “Glee”. And if you prefer TLC’s “Toddlers and Tiaras” to “Dexter”, I have no doubts in my mind about which is the more dis-
turbing show. Here’s a hint: it rhymes with “Shmoddlers and Shmiaras”. For those not familiar with the series and not fans of televised child abuse, Dexter Morgan is a blood-spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Homicide unit who spends his spare time killing people. Don’t worry, though, he only kills people he knows are guilty of murder but have evaded justice. In this season our dark hero slices his way into spiritual matters. Dexter’s friend wants him to send his son, Harrison, to a prestigious Catholic preschool. Not surprisingly, Dexter is not the religious type. When a nun at the school asks if he is Catholic, he answers honestly, “No,” before elaborating through inner monologue on his appreciation for the imagery of Catholicism while eyeing a particularly gory crucifix statue on the wall behind the nun. The premiere also featured the introduction of this season’s elusive main antagonists, a pair of Bible-thumping murderers. Things could get interesting as Dexter’s personal inquiry of faith collides with these two religious crazies. Needless to say, I will be on the edge of my seat this season.
Contributed Photos
By Richard o' Connor Staff Writer If you know what “Halal” food is, or you know what a falafel is, then you know why I chose to review Layla’s Falafel this week. If you’re not sure what I’m talking about then you need to head over to Layla’s Falafel located on 2088 Black Rock Turnpike, which is next to Garden Catering. Layla’s can best be described as a takeout place, since they spend no time trying to gussy up the place, and they have minimal seating for those trying to eat-in. Layla’s Falafel presents authentic Middle Eastern dishes such as kebobs, the vegetarian falafel, shawerma and the savory dessert baklava. Middle Eastern food is generally characterized by grilled meats, light salads, hummus and spicy sauces. I decided upon ordering the
Chicken Shawerma platter as well as the Baklava. My Chicken Shawerma platter consisted of grilled chicken over rice and lentils, pita bread, white sauce and hummus, and a small salad of lettuce, tomato and cucumber. The chicken was a bit dry and I did not receive as much as I thought I would get for ordering a platter. The lentils and rice however complimented the chicken well, and when I tossed the chicken, rice and salad into a pita and covered it with the white sauce, it was easy to look past that small fact and I was able to enjoy the meal. The baklava that I sampled, was just as good as any baklava I have ever had. It had a nice flakey exterior, and a rich center of chopped nuts sweetened with a little syrup. Perhaps my taste buds have been spoiled by too many visits to the infamous
and ubiquitous Halal trucks that cover Manhattan. The food at those trucks both seemed fresher, tastier and had a better value (in the city you can get a chicken platter for $7 compared to Layla’s $13). Also I was disappointed by the lack of the spicy “red sauce” at Layla’s that I usually put on my Halal from the trucks, which my friends and I agree is an essential part of the experience. Overall, my impression of Layla’s was that it was decent. While it clearly can’t compete with the food trucks in the city, Layla’s does offer a nice break to the constant routine of pizza, Chinese and the neighboring Garden Catering. To those of you that eat out frequently or are looking for something new, then I’d recommend going here and trying some Middle Eastern food. For those of you that are looking for some great Middle Eastern, then I suggest on your next stop into Manhattan you go by everyone’s favorite Halal cart on the corner of 53rd and 6th.
The Vine
The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
The Right One is Just a Number Away By Annemarie Veira Staff writer
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he movie “What’s Your Number?” tells the story of Ally Darling (Faris), who lives in Boston and works at a marketing firm. One of Ally’s main problems is that she has horrible taste in men! Within the first five minutes of the film, Ally comes to realize that her current boyfriend, Rick, isn’t the guy for her because he refuses to go to her sister’s wedding and meet her family. The same day, Ally reports to work only to get fired. Depressed and on the train home, she flips open to a magazine article, called “What’s Your Number?” which discusses how many partners most women in the United States have had. Ally begins to make a list of all the men she ever slept with. Once she is at the party, she decides to poll her friends and sister to see how many men they’ve slept with. In turn, she confesses how many she’s slept with: 19. She admits to reading the article, only to find out that her friends had also read it. They notify her - since she never actually finished the article - that most women who go over the limit of 10 lovers have a low chance at finding a husband In a drunken proclamation, Ally promises that the twentieth man she sleeps with will be 'the one,' and that she won’t sleep with anyone else. Well, that plan goes down the tubes when, already plastered, she meets her ex-boss at the bar, and wakes up to find him bottomless in her bed. Things get interesting when her next-door neighbor Colin knocks, asking to use the phone in order to avoid his one night stand. Seeing how uncomfortable Ally is with her ex-boss in the room, Colin saves Ally by coming up with an excuse to get the ex-boss out of the house. Ally and Colin talk and Ally tells him everything, including the fact that she believes one of her former lovers is 'the one.' Colin agrees to track them down as long as he can use her place as a refuge from his many conquests. The flack this movie has been getting is pretty negative.
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I’ll be honest, based on the trailer, was I expecting the film to sound off in the comments section of The Mirror online. be hysterically funny, especially given Faris’ reputation? Yes. Was it? No. The film does follow the traditional romantic comedy formula for the most part, with some form of happy ending and selffinding for the main character. This is likely because the film is based on Karyn Bosnak's novel "20 Times a Lady," in which the main character does the same. The movie did have its moments, and good one-liners. The film seemed more about Ally’s finding herself in following her desires for her life, both professionally and romantically. This, however, gets lost in translation with the film’s attempt to be raunchy funny and compete with the success of Fox’s “Bridesmaids”. Audience members, myself included, can all connect with the character of Ally Darling who has made her fair share of mistakes. That’s what makes the film decent, because deep down we want to come back from our mistakes and be loved for who we are, rather than what we’ve done. In regards to the cast and their performances, Faris was believable. Personally, I liked that she was out of what is normally her raunchy role. It gave me a short chance to see Faris stretch a bit. Faris and Evans, who plays the untraditional Mr. Right in Colin, have great chemistry on screen and you can’t help but love the many situations they are put in. So far in box office ratings, the film is in the top 10, having only grossed $5.6 million domestically in its first two days. As the film is slowly released globally, I guarantee that many women are going to enjoy this movie. If you want some time to get away from the stress of school with a few laughs, and some very relatable situations, definitely go see “What’s Your Contributed Photos Number?” The poster for What's Your Number? Remember to tell me what you think and
The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
Online
Send your thoughts to info@fairfieldmirror.com.
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Coffee Break | 13
Editor Gabriella Tutino» info@fairfieldmirror.com
His iPhone / Her BlackBerry
Joe McConville
The FUSA concert choice this semester flat out sucks. I really don’t know how to sugar coat that. If I wanted the experience of going to see the Far East Movement in concert I’d sit in my room blasting “Like a G6” on the decibel level of a 747 taking off, turn my heat up to 90 degrees, press my hands against the side of my head for 3 hours, and scream loudly. Not only would I save myself $35, I’d probably feel so lightheaded I’d have a sick high. I hope for their sake they play “Like a G6” last. Instead of having two sucky concerts for both semesters, the concert people should just pool the budget and get someone REALLY good. Instead of having minor acts come as headliners, why not have ACTUAL HEADLINERS come as the main acts? WRITE THAT DOWN, I’m spitting so many ideas over here. The school would get increased revenue because people outside of the student body would want to go see them perform. Speaking of which, what the hell is with the $4 million dollar deficit between what the school is making and what the school is spending? I’m not an accounting major but isn’t anyone learning from the US financial crisis? When you don’t have the money… you don’t spend it. Is it really rocket science? Does this mean that credit card companies are going to start repossessing things until the school starts breaking even? Will my bed be taken from me because the StagBus needed to be run for the day? FUSA’s budget is around $300,000 a year. With around $187,000 going to programming
Spending Ideas
it makes one wonder why they can’t be more successful at it. Let’s face it; the average college student is not going to want to play Bingo on a Friday night. Events like Prez Ball, Extreme Bowling, and Late Night at Barone are really successful; so why not cater to more events like that rather than random little presentations or events that no one goes to on Monday afternoons. With each student having almost $100 taken out of their tuition to pay for these events, let’s try to get the most out of our money. The unsuccessful events are the ones FUSA and other organizations puts on during the day…I’m sensing a revolutionary idea here… since the average college student is practically nocturnal…why not…program events… THAT HAPPEN AT NIGHT. Holy crap it’s like I’m Che Guevara. Instantly you have at least a 70% increase in attendance. Throw in some free pizza or T-shirts and oh my gosh you may have the next big thing on your hands. We college students will literally whore ourselves out for a free T-shirt. It seems to me that the school is hemorrhaging funds on things that they are not getting any return on. Like the US economy, Fairfield University needs to reassess where they spend their money. Personally I’d like it done sooner than later so I can reap the benefits of what they sow, but in the very least I’d like to see Fairfield become a better place for future Stags to enjoy. -Sent from my iPhone
I’m not one to talk about bills and money, since I’m an English major, but sometimes I wonder what Fairfield does with our money. I began to think about this when I heard that Far East Movement was going to be our fall semester concert. I can’t think of one person that is excited for it, myself included. I’m still wondering who the hell Hoodie Allen is... and why he’d name himself after a sweatshirt. Has anyone ever attended the Bingo nights that FUSA holds here? I’m guessing that most people would say no. I’m not on FUSA, and I know it must be a lot of work to put events together, but come on. Can we think of better ways to spend our programming money? Free food events go over well, along with other free things, because obviously college kids love free stuff. (HINT- More free T-shirts. iPhone Guy is right. We love them.) Prez Ball is one of the most successful events of the year, and it’s a shame that there are not other events like Prez Ball going on throughout the year. If Fairfield could just hold big, fun events that occur not so often, then the events would be more successful – that’s not rocket science. Let’s get rid of the petty events that go on at 2 p.m. on a Monday when I’m still in class. More
Stag Photo Hunt
Can you spot the 5 differences?
Megan Forbes
dances, more “Late Night at Barone” and night events. It’s the way to go. Give us something else to do on our Friday night besides roaming the townhouses and the beach. I know it sounds crazy, but some people actually get TIRED of drinking and partying on the weekends. Now, back to how our University spends money. I’m loving the red signs because they really prevent me from getting lost walking around campus. We can afford all the little red signs, but not to clean up our gym that’s full of rust? Why can’t we have some air conditioning? I’ve been sweating in my room since we got here. And why are there still students in my history class that don’t have desks? Shouldn’t Fairfield prioritize how they spend their money? There are just so many things that Fairfield could be doing for its students with the large pile of money that is our tuition. I’m happy about the changes in the StagBus, and the fact that we can fit more than 8 people on the bus at one time . Now I can actually go out to dinner in town past 7 p.m, and not have to call a cab to come back to campus. Talk about convenience. I guess changes are just going to take time, but hurry up Fairfield: I only have 5 more semesters until graduation! -Sent from my BlackBerry
Danica Ceballos/The Mirror
The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
Sports
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This Week in Sports The week that was in Fairfield Athletics
What To Watch For
Wednesday- Women's Volleyball vs. Siena at 7 p.m.
Sports Short Special
Thursday - No games. Friday- Men's Soccer vs. Canisius at 7 p.m.
Men's Soccer After an 0-4 start, the men’s soccer team has
roared back by ripping off three straight wins, including a sweep this weekend over MAAC rivals Loyola and Rider. Last Friday night, the Stags traveled to perennial MAAC powerhouse Loyola, and came out on top with a 2-1 victory. Keaton Cristobal notched the first goal of the game on a feed from freshman Jordan Ayris. Ayris added a goal himself to give the Stags a 2-0 advantage. Loyola fought back, and scored a goal on a penalty kick, but the defense and goalkeeper Michael O’Keeffe were able to withstand the second half barrage to improve to 1-0 in MAAC play. Sunday provided plenty of drama for the Stags. With host Rider leading 2-1 in the 90th minute Jack Burridge stepped up. The senior captain notched his first goal of the season to force overtime. Daniel Shaw scored his first goal of the season with 1:24 remaining in the first overtime to give the Stags a 3-2 victory and remain unbeaten at 2-0 in MAAC play. Freshman phenom Jordan Ayris was named the MAAC player of the week, notching 2 goals and 2 assists in 2 games this weekend. Fairfield hosts Canisius and Niagara in critical MAAC games this weekend.
Saturday - Women's Soccer vs. Iona at 7 p.m. Sunday - Field Hockey vs. Brown at 2 p.m. Monday -Women's Tennis competes in USTA Women's Invitational. Tuesday- Men's Golf plays in Connecticut Cup.
By The Numbers
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Make sure to check out our new Sports Blog with online-only coverage at sports.fairfieldmirror.com
Men's Soccer is Brianna Jordan Ayris of Dixion notched on a three game Mens Soccer winning streak a career best 22 scored two goals after sweeping kills in Volleyand two assists Loyola and Rider ball's victory in the team's two over Rider this in two key battles. MAAC wins. past weekend.
Quote of the Week
- said Marit Westenberg, captain of the 8-3 Fairfield field hockey team commenting on the upcoming conference schedule
Sports 3x5 Eric Bernsen Sports Editor
Ivey Speight Contributing Writer
J ohn Tessitore Assistant Sports Editor
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“I think Albany, BU, Vermont and Maine should be scared. We are coming out, and we are coming out hard, and we are coming out to get to the (Conference) tournament."
New Sports Blog
Because they like to talk... Sports.
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Your 2011-2012 3x5 Columnists: Eric Bernsen, Ivey Speight and John Tessitore.
First month of the semester is over. Most legendary moment of September?
MLB playoffs are underway. Which team are you rallying behind?
Kobe Bryant is considering playing in Italy this season. Smart choice?
Columbus Day weekend coming up. You got big plans?
Most legendary dynamic duo on Fairfield's campus?
Running in the rain from Flipside back to campus with two elite Fairfield legends has to be number one on the list.
Whoever wins the Brewers-Diamondbacks series would have to be my choice. So much swag.
For sure. If I were him I'd be tearing up the Italian clubs every night. Three drinks.. . five euro..only at ASTOOR!
For all in the Westchester area, the DF is gonna be poppin this weekend. Long live the home of the SURPS.
From 4th floor Campion to now, KG and the CO can't be stopped. Bigger than Shaq and Kobe in their Laker days. Still gotta shout out Detox though.
I hate to say it but besides a couple of days, I don't remember September.
Any team not named the Yankees or the Phillies. I'd cheer for the Long Island Ducks over them.
Well, I guess he's following the Stags. Does he speak Italian? Ciao Kobe.
Staying on campus watching the women's soccer and volleyball games. HUHU YAYYYYY!
Without a doubt the Killer Gazzelle or KG and the Carlin. Great show on WVOF!
Gotta go with Lord Fielder and the Brewcrew, can't knock the hustle.
Hello mate, welcome to the ASTOR night club, with special guest Bartender D Kellz and Stickyhands Della Pena!
Ha, I gotta say Ivey Speighterman getting his grind on everywhere and anywhere.
Bunch of DF legends coming home. Gonna be NICKED out. If your looking for a good time, visit the small hamlet on the Hudson.
Duh Scotty Piccolo and Kurt "Big Hurt" Stephens, get at 'em.
Sports
The Mirror | Week of October 5, 2011
Page 15
Volleyball Team Young But Fearless
Four Game Winning Streak for the Determined Stags By Ivey Speight Contributing Writer
It’s a brand new year and a brand new team. The Fairfield University women’s volleyball team seems to be improving week-by-week as they extended their winning streak to four matches with the victory over Rider on Sunday. They evened their overall record to 8-8 and are now 5-1 in the MAAC. “Everyday we’re trying to get better and I think that it’s really reflecting on the way we’re playing,” said Brianna Dixion '13. It might be a young and inexperienced squad with a roster that consists of five freshmen, but the energy on the court is quite familiar to some of the successful teams of the past. “When you play with people you like and everybody is working hard, everybody is holding each other accountable, that’s what makes you a good team,” Dixion said. The Stags are coming off a disappointing year that they would like to forget. They became the first Fairfield volleyball team to finish with a losing record since 2003, and ended with a program worst: eight conference losses. “This year they’ve been working really hard and they’re trying to find a way to make things work,” fourth year head coach Alija Pittenger said. The squad has not just gotten contributions from their rookies, but also their veterans. Brianna Dixion seems to be on the verge of a breakout season, including a career best 22 kills in the win over Rider. This consistent force is something that the team has been waiting for since her 2009 MAAC Rookie of the Year Award. “She’s been playing really well. She’s gotten us a lot of points especially in key times. We’ve definitely come to rely on her,” Pittenger said. With such a young team, senior leadership becomes vital. This year’s class has been trying to lead by example. Seniors Haililani Pokipala and Kendal Dirkin have aided
in the team’s recent success. Pokipala had 24 kills over the weekend while matching a personal best with 22 digs. Dirkin moved into Fairfield’s top-ten in career blocks with 177. With the help of the familiar faces, and the addition of a talented freshmen class, this 2011 squad is looking to avenge last year’s disappointing result. This can be seen through the determination that the Stags have displayed this season. “I think this year we just consistently work hard. Even if we’re losing we’re consistently giving 100 percent,” said sophomore setter Rachel Romansky.
The Colorado native moved into sixth place all-time with 1,732 career assists over the weekend The players have set high goals for themselves. 2010 was the first time that Fairfield volleyball had not won a regular season championship in six years. Maybe this new team can bring back the old success of the program. “If we keep improving everyday like we’ve been doing, I honestly think we can win it this year,” Dixion said. “And not just by a fluke, but by working hard everyday.”
Amanda McKelvey/The Mirror
The Fairield volleyball team huddles up during their victory against Rider. The Stags are now 5-1 in MAAC play after this weekend.
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Sports Editor: Eric Bernsen » info@fairfieldmirror.com
Confidence Through the Roof for Red Hot Stags
Photos by Tom McKiver/The Mirror
Top: Senior captain Marit Westenberg moves the ball against Lock Haven this past Sunday. Bottom Left: Freshman Felicitas Heinen strikes the ball by her defender. Heinen scored the game winning goal.
By John Tessitore Assistant Sports Editor With 12 minutes remaining in the game, the Stags were on the verge of their season's first losing streak. Lock Haven, out of the Atlantic 10 conference, clung to a 1-0 lead and the Stags were struggling to find offense. "We knew that we were going to score- there was no doubt in our mind,” said head coach Jackie Kane. In the blink of an eye, senior Marit Westenberg deflected a pass into the goal tying the game at one, igniting the crowd and forcing overtime. “It was great, that was just what we needed, we knew we were going to get the game after that," said Westenberg. After the goal, the momentum shifted and the Stags were able to control possession for the rest of the game. Eleven minutes deep into the first overtime period, freshmen Felicitas Heinen ripped a shot into the back of the net off of a beautiful feed from Shealyn Testa. Heinen was immediately mobbed by her teammates at midfield, and the celebration ensued. “It always feels good to score
goals, but for the team it was amazing and we are building up confidence," said Heinen. Confidence is key for this Stags team, who, with the win, now own a program best 8-3 record. Last Friday night the Stags lost a heart breaker to New Hampshire, the 15th ranked team in the nation, by a count of 2-0. “I think our girls learned that we developed into such an area that we can actually compete in the American East. Once we saw that we could compete against them, we started turning it on," said Coach Kane. One of the main positives from the New Hampshire game was the defense. New Hampshire came into the game scoring 3.99 goals per game, which was good for third in the nation. Yet, the feisty Stag defense was able to hold New Hampshire to just two goals, one being in the final minutes as Fairfield pulled their goalie in an attempt to get an extra player on attack. “We came out really scared for the first five minutes, and that’s how they scored, but then we came back, and I don't think we have ever played that good against a ranked team," said Westenberg, who is one of the captains on the team. The contest against Lock Haven was another grind-it out, who is going
to bend first type of game. Lock Haven got on the board late in the first half, when Leslie Ahern shred through the defense and found the back of the net. However, it was the persistent play of the Stags that kept them in the game. “I think that's what our team has: a lot of heart,” said Kane Fairfield outshot Lock Haven 6-0 in the second half, and Westenberg's team-leading sixth goal of the year tied it at one before Heinen's fifth goal of the year gave the Stags the 2-1 win. “Our overall work ethic and the quality hockey that we played should give us a lot of confidence going forward into Albany next week,” said Kane. The Stags now enter the most crucial part of their schedule. Four of their final seven games are against conference opponents and three of the four conference opponents are ranked in the national top twenty. The Stags are showing no signs of weakness, and their captain is representing the groups' attitude going into this challenging stretch of games. As Westenberg phrased it, “I think Albany, BU, Vermont and Maine should be scared. We are coming out, and we are coming out hard, and we are coming out to get to the (Conference) tournament."
Online Only Coverage: Women's Soccer Falls to Marist