FREE | Take one Week of February 22, 2012 | Vol. 37, Iss 8
The
Mirror
The Independent Student Newspaper of Fairfield University
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The Reflection of Fairfield
Say Goodbye To Fairfield Cab!
After Much Negative Publicity, Taxi Company Will Be Shut Down By The Month’s End
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Lisa Bufe/The Mirror
By Mary Kate McCormick Staff Writer Have you ever stood outside of Jogues or the townhouses, waiting for a cab that was already 45 minutes late, only to be picked up by an old, unkempt vehicle that seemingly risks your life on the way to Lantern Point? These are everyday taxi issues met by Fairfield students who have used Fairfield Cab in the past, some of whom “would rather walk than use them again,” according to senior Keith Brocker. But after Feb. 29, students can’t travel with Fairfield Cab even if they want to. The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) is shutting down Fairfield’s longest running taxi business at the end of the month due to recent
Dents on another Fairfi convictions of drivers and safety violations on every vehicle in the fleet, according to the Connecticut Post. For Fairfield students, this
Index Opinion • Page 7 The Vine • Page 9 Coffee Break • Page 16 Sports • Page 20
SPORTS:
eld Cab car
may mean temporary inconvenience but hopefully it will lead to safer, more reliable transportation in the future.
Stags top Stony Brook in Season Opener p. 20
Companies like Red Dot Taxi are happy to accommodate Fairfield students. According to Matt Watanabe ‘12, “If you are trying to get somewhere safely and on time, Fairfield Cab should be your last resort.” And at Fairfield, taxis are a necessity to some. After all, there are only so many places the StagBus will go. In addition to having cars that failed inspection due to failure to display driver ID and presence of excessive body damage, the recent arrest and conviction of two Fairfield Cab drivers publicized in the CT Post added significantly to the DOT’s decision to shut down the company. Most notably, the recent sentencing of cab driver Bruce
OPINION:
OMG! Are You Facebook Official yet? P. 7
Northrop for sexual assault while on the job is among the most well known offences of the collapsing taxi company. According to Brocker, although Northrop’s conduct was “never professional” and his slang terms for residence halls were sometimes disgusting, “he got us where we needed to go.” Issues such as the huge wait times and unreliable phone dispatchers plagued students for years. Fairfield Cab was the only option for a long time – until now. Due to the closing of Fairfield Cab, students must now use alternative companies like Red Dot and Yellow Cab, which many have already switched to. The transition should be an easy one, aided by rumors
Cab | page 3
Innovative Designers “Emerge!” at New York Fashion Show P. 9
News
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Page 2
RecPlex vs. Varsity Athletic Center A Photographic Comparison of Fairfield University’s Weight Rooms
Mirror Staff
Can You Guess Which Photo Column Belongs to Which Facility?
News
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Page 3
Is It Possible To Be On Your Phone 24/7? Apparently. By Courtney Todd Contributing Writer
Sleepwalking. Sleep talking. Sleep texting? According to USA Today College, sleep texting, the act of sending text messages during sleep, has recently become a growing phenomenon, especially amongst college students. In early December, The Lantern at Ohio State University explained: “Sleep texting is as simple as it sounds. A person will respond or send out a text message in the middle of their sleep. Most people who do this usually do not remember doing it and it usually doesn’t make much sense.” It’s similar to sleep talking and sleepwalking because the next morning, there is no memory of it occurring. But Dr. Ron Salafia, professor of psychology at Fairfield University, believes it isn’t necessarily an issue of not remembering, but rather that the information can’t be retrieved because it never actually consolidates in the brain, similar to what happens during sleepwalking and sleep talking. Researchers believe that sleep texting is happening because it has become so common for people to sleep with their cell phone right next to them, either on a nightstand or even in their bed. “I often sleep text. I answer people’s messages or even sometimes send new ones,” said Fairfield University student Aidan Wildes ‘14. Many say it’s because they use their cell phone as an alarm clock. Dr. Margaret Wills, profes-
Photo Illustration by Tom McKiver/The Mirror
Research has shown that people who sleep with their phones close by have a tendency to send text messages in their sleep, causing considerable confusion the next morning.
sor of communication at the University, says simply to put the phone somewhere else at night. “It’s unhealthy to have a cell phone in the bedroom,” Wills said. “Research has shown that the electromagnetic radiation generated by a cell phone disrupts a person’s sleep cycle and deprives them of the much needed deep levels of sleep.” “Having firsthand experience with sleepwalkers in my family, I’m sure sleep texting is a real phenomenon. It’s not hard to imagine someone who frequently
texts and has a cell phone next to the bed sending sleep texts,” said Wills. Another reason for having the phone within reach during sleep could just be a matter of security, to know that they can reach for it at any time, which then can be linked to the issue of society’s major dependence on technology today. “Many people, especially young adults, feel a sense of attachment to their phones and view the devices as a social lifeline that they can’t do with-
out, even when the anxiety the phones produce keeps them up at night,” The Chronicle of Higher Education reported. But responses are mixed. The number of Fairfield University students who said they don’t sleep text outweighed the number that said they do. Some students said they had never even heard of it. Regardless of whether people believe that sleep texting is or is not happening, according to USA Today, the phenomenon has been put in ranks with the
other oddities that commonly happen during sleep. “I don’t think it exists,” said Dan Jones ‘13, another Fairfield student. “It’s an excuse to send texts that you wouldn’t normally send any other time.” Salafia agreed: “It would be possible to text during some stages of sleep but impossible during others. I seriously doubt that someone is actually asleep, reaches over, and texts, then just puts the phone down. That’s just not going to happen.”
More Budget Cuts?
By Mikaela Tierney Editor-in-chief
Lisa Bufe/The Mirror
Although a familiar sight to Fairfield students, Fairfield Cab will be no more by the end of this month due to a forced termination.
Fairfield Cab Will Close On Feb. 29 Continued from page 1
that one of these companies will buy out Fairfield Cab. However, everything is “up in the air right now,” according to Red Dot manager Steve Zubrinsky. Regardless of a buyout, Red Dot is quickly taking over Fairfield Cab’s business. To see if anything had changed in terms of professionalism, The Mirror did an experiment and called each company. At Fairfield Cab, the greeting was nothing more than a brief “Fairfield Cab.” At Red Dot, The Mirror was greeted by an employee stating her name, the company name and how they could be of service. Before even making a reservation, Red Dot displayed more organization and professionalism than Fairfield
Cab. In a conversation with Zubrinsky, The Mirror learned that the company also manages limousines, which he claimed serve as a parallel of quality found in the taxi service. Zubrinksy added, “Red Dot service is head and shoulders above Fairfield Cab, and as an upper level taxi company vehicles are safer, drivers all go through a strict hiring process.” While other universities like Sacred Heart provide safe, inexpensive or free nighttime transportation for students, Fairfield does not. On the SHU shuttle, students can travel to New Haven and other popular destinations using their student card, preventing dangerous drunk driving and piling an unsafe number of students into
a vehicle. On the contrary, at a university where neither freshman nor sophomores are permitted vehicles on campus, the struggle to get to places in a town with little public transportation is ongoing for Fairfield students. Although the beach area and The Grape are only about two miles from campus, Fairfield does not provide transportation to these locations, forcing students to pay extra for taxi fares. “You would think a school at this level of tuition would provide a guaranteed safe alternative after everything that’s happened with Fairfield Cab,” said Tyler Calvi-Rogers ’13. For now, Fairfield students are reliant on local taxi services.
Some academic programs have suffered restrictions or limitations in their budgets or operations over the past few months as a result of the budget gap. As requested by President von Arx and Father Paul Fitzgerald, “We are postponing three of our nine searches in the College of Arts & Sciences (my understanding is that searches are also being closed in other schools),” Robbin Crabtree, dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, said. “A number of factors went into which of our searches would be postponed, and none of this has been easy.” Staff searches will be postponed in history, math and economics. Although Crabtree continued to note in her email that she had attempted to get administrators to reconsider their choice to cut these searches in Arts & Sciences, it is unlikely that changes would be made. However, it is probable that the searches will continue next year, and the other six searches in other departments will continue as planned. These three departments were not the only areas that were affected by budgetary concerns. A number of interdisciplinary programs had changes made to their funding in
recent weeks as well. “I did not ask these programs to spend less money this year, but rather to draw a portion of their spending from gift and endowment distribution accounts,” explained Fitzgerald. “I asked the same of academic programs across campus.” Fitzgerald highlighted a number of other areas in which the University is continuing its funding for “its core academic mission – teaching and learning,” and noted that Financial Aid assistance for students has also been increased to assist students during these difficult economic times. “To do this, we have tightened our belts in areas that don’t affect the core academic mission of the University,” he said. “There have been reductions in administrative costs and there is less travel and entertainment monies available, and this is as it should be in tight economic times.” These cuts, according to many top administrators, are essential to closing the startling budget gap that emerged at the end of last semester. Remedying existing fiscal problems and preventing them from reoccurring is top priority. “It is essential that we develop a balanced [fiscal year 2013] budget that is consistent with this path to our long-term success,” President Jeffrey von Arx S.J. said in a recent campus-wide email.
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
News
Wednesday, 9/7
Page 4
Best of Campus Crime Beat
10:10 a.m. DPS discovered a fake I.D. in a wallet left in the BCC. The wallet was returned to its rightful owner and the owner was referred to the Dean of Students. Tuesday, 9/13
Friday, 11/18
11:58 p.m. Approximately 148 people were in attendance at a Townhouse party at 11 block. The party was broken up by an anonymous tip to DPS.
Saturday, 11/19
9:44 p.m. A sophomore with fraudulent vehicle registration was stopped for reckless driving after speeding and skidding sideways in the area of Loyola Hall. During the traffic stop two passengers were discovered in the trunk of the car. Students involved were referred to the Dean’s office and have lost vehicle privileges for their junior year. The car has been put on an automatic tow list.
12:41 a.m. A non-student was arrested and had their car impounded after running a stop sign on Loyola Drive and prompting DPS investigation. The driver was found to be driving under the influence with an open container of alcohol and was operating a motor vehicle with a suspended license resulting from a DUI violation in August.
Saturday, 10/22
10:56 p.m. DPS officers observed an unregistered guest urinating on Jogues Hall. The guest’s host was referred to the Dean of Student’s office.
Saturday, 12/3
3:38 a.m. Discharged fireworks in a corridor of Claver Hall led to the evacuation of the building. The incident is still under investigation.
Wednesday, 11/2
10:51 p.m. All mirrors in a Jogues 3rd floor bathroom were smashed. The carpentry department was notified.
Saturday, 11/12
Sunday, 1/22
2:24 a.m. A DPS vehicle was struck with an egg while responding to a call. The officer driving was forced to stop in the area of Mailands Road to wipe off the egg.
3:38 a.m. DPS discovered individuals in Gonzaga Hall to be playing what appeared to be Beer Pong. Investigation found cups filled with water and one beer can left out in the open. Students were referred to the Dean of Students’ office.
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FUSA rock climbing at Carabiner’s. Bus leaves alumni hall at 7 p.m. Tickets at info desk (free with five dollar deposit). Monday February 27-
12-hour MAAC tournament preview broadcast by WVOF. 12 p.m. - midnight
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News
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Page 5
Student Activist Group Rallies For New Investment Plan By Richard O’Connor Staff Writer
Recently, when people think of investing, the mind conjures an image of power hungry Wall Street executives plotting to steal their homes. Arturo Jaras Watts ‘13 is trying to change this image from a malign one to a more peaceful one with his new student group, the Proactive Investment Club (PIC). “PIC is a group that acknowledges that as individuals, we can be responsible for our finances, and [although] it will be a tiny bit of a difference, it would be a drop in the bucket,” said Jaras Watts. ”But if we can get institutions to invest responsibly then we’re talking about large scale and lasting change.” Jaras Watts continued, “We believe it’s bigger than our campaign here at Fairfield University, because if we’re successful here to get Fairfield to change some of its practices, then nearby schools ... may feel some kind of pressure to keep up and be ethically at the same level as other schools.” According to Jaras Watts, getting the university to invest more humanely doesn’t simply mean divesting in those companies that engage in unethical business practices and investing in those with more commendable business models. Jaras Watts and his group strive to change things from the inside out using shareholder advocacy, which is an investment strategy that
utilizes the power of stock ownership to enact social change within the company. Watts continued, “One of the student government resolutions that we’re trying to pass is … firstly, for Fairfield to establish a committee on investor responsibility that will focus on this going forward... and secondly to engage in shareholder advocacy.” He added, “It really ought to be a responsibility for schools and large institutions to pay attention to what the companies they’re invested in are doing. “ Senior Michael Durand was sympathetic to the case, stating: “I think it may be a good idea depending on what the school invests its money in. I don’t know anything about what businesses the school does invest in, so I can’t really say, but if the businesses they are investing in have been affecting communities in a negative manner then someone should be responsible into looking at why that’s the case.” However another student, Stephanie Kozinski, was more concerned with how this change would affect the university’s bottom line. “A lot of the ways these businesses get their money are unethical, and it would be nice if everyone would be more ethical,” she said. “But sometimes being ethical means less profit, not to be a downer.” Jaras Watts had the foresight to expect this type of rebuttal and explained, “We want to stress that we acknowledge that none of us are
as financially literate as some of the administrators probably are, and we want to work with them to find a mutually agreeable way of going about this.” On top of tweaking Fairfield’s investment strategy, Jaras Watts would also like to see the university hold its money in smaller, community oriented credit unions, instead of large commercial banks. Credit unions are member-owned financial cooperatives, considered non-profit because the goal of their existence is to serve its members rather than maximizing profits. Jaras Watts explained, “Credit unions … are not associated with the negative risky behavior that led to the financial collapse of 2008, but in addition to that they are specifically there to help alleviate poverty through providing financial services to those who wouldn’t traditionally get them.” “Additionally we’d like to see community investment,” he continued. “A group of students at Fordham [University] ... pressured their university to move $500,000 into community development credit unions in the Bronx. “ “Credit unions,” Jaras Watts explained, “make it so they can offer lower interest rates. They can make it easier for homeowners … the more capital there is available makes it easier for people to start small businesses nearby. “ Don’t be surprised if this new type of investment strategy seems unfamiliar to you, because it should.
Contributed Photo
Arturo Jaras Watts ‘13, leader of efforts to make Fairfield invest in a more ethical manner.
Only a handful of schools currently engage in this type of practice. “Fairfield has the opportunity among the Jesuits to be one of the schools that are leading the way,” Jaras Watts explained. “Right now, Loyola, Chicago, Seattle University, in addition to Fordham University, are three Jesuit schools that have been involved heavily in this type of work. And of the 28 Jesuit schools across the country we have the opportunity to be breaking new ground.” Jaras Watts made the point that he doesn’t want people to get the wrong idea about PIC. “People
will associate us with finance, and investment, and business, and a lot of people will be bored,” he said. “But if you’re really getting a good idea of what we’re about it’s a social justice issue, and we’re just trying to take on a lot of the problems in the world through finance.” “We want PIC to be a place where students with social & environmental justice concerns feel welcome regardless of the level of experience with responsible investment issues. We welcome new members and encourage anyone in the Fairfield University community to join,” he concluded.
News
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Page 6
By FUSA Columnist
Juniors who applied to live down at the beach seemed very excited with the results of the Off-Campus Boarding lottery. I hope this instills in students the fact that the University is committed to keeping the beach as an option for senior students. On a more broad focus, students everywhere seem to be much happier about the housing options that are presented before them. The options for living offered at Fairfield are some of the best and most diverse for universities across the nation. Our completion of the strategic plan for housing has certainly drawn success in the eyes of the student body. We are not done however, as we still look to improve our Rec Plex, Alumni Field, and health education facilities. I know that these projects raise cause for concern amongst some students due to our recent budget problems. I’d like to voice the important for Fairfield to maintain high quality facilities as we continuously need to
keep a high standard as a university so that we are appealing for incoming freshman classes. We find ourselves in the midst of an interesting time of transitioning of financial and enrollment models. More importantly as a university, we need to find the proper balance of keeping a tight budget while at the same time looking for ways to enhance the Fairfield experience and compete in the secondary education industry. FUSA will be playing an important role in the advancement of this university and will be calling on student’s for support and input. Another grievance that I know some students have shared is a communication gap between students and administration. Your student leaders have heard this and have worked with administration to put on a forum Wednesday, Feb 22nd at 5:30 in BCC 200 for students to speak freely about open communication and information sharing between students and administration. Please attend and share your ideas so that we can have a better-informed student population. FUSA extends a congratulations to Sam Maxfield ’14 and Crystal Rodriguez ’14 who were nominated and elected to serve as FUSA Senate Chair and Vice Chair respectively. If you are interested in serving on FUSA Executive Council next year, applications are ready and will be available in the FUSA Office, BCC 212, and at the Info Desk. Pick one up for more information.
- Robert Vogel ‘13
Exploring the Alternative: Atheism At A Catholic University By Martin O’Sullivan New Editor
Fairfield University has a wide variety of religious studies classes, going far beyond issues focusing on Roman Catholics or Jesuits. Students can take courses in Judaism, Islam and Buddhism. However, Fairfield does not currently offer a course focused on disbelief in the existence of a god. “I think it would be a healthy exposure,” said Fr. Michael Doody S.J., current director of Campus Ministry. “This is where ideas are exchanged. To say, ‘Well, let’s put these ideas [about disbelief] over here’ - it makes an academy without a cornerstone.” Fairfield’s online diversity statement expresses its desire to produce students who are “able to confidently engage in any cultural circumstance, with an open mind and the capacity to empathize with the perspectives of others.” But one overlooked perspective is the growing number of people who do not identify with any organized religion. According to the 2008 American Religious Identification Survey, there are roughly 4.9 million declared atheists in the United States. That is 1.6 percent of the total population and only a portion of the overall 15 percent who do not identify with any particular religion. During a University discussion on diversity last semester, Dr. Ann Stehney, assistant vice president of institutional research, showed similar results here at Fairfield. In a diversity survey given to 348 Fairfield students during the previous academic year, 17 percent of participants classified themselves as having no religious affiliation. Informal estimates paint a different picture. “I have not come across a large contingent of non-
religious believers, or what you describe as atheists, on campus,” said Fr. George Collins S.J., coordinator of mission and identity programs. So what does all of this mean in terms of the university’s goal to produce students versed in the “perspectives of others”? Religious studies professors at Fairfield agree that it is not the
Marnie Whalen ‘13, a religious studies major, said, “I’m going to be dealing with atheists and agnostics as much, if not more, in my career as I probably will with Buddhists or Hindus, so I would love the opportunity to learn about this way of thinking as well.” Dr. John Thiel, a religious studies professor, explained how
It’s already been done. Fairfield had its own course entitled “Modern Atheism” during the early 1970s, according to Thiel. Taught by Augustine Caffrey, the creation of this class followed the administration’s efforts to revoke his tenure after he left the Jesuit order and proclaimed himself an agnostic, Thiel explained. He
Contributed Photo
Fairfield’s Catholic presence is clearly defined, which begs the question: What about the students with no religion?
University’s aim to convert students to any particular organized religion. “If everybody left this institution a convinced atheist but a person of virtue and compassion and integrity, we would not have failed,” said Dr. Paul Lakeland, director of Catholic studies. “If everybody left this place as a card-carrying Catholic without an ounce of integrity, compassion or virtue, we would have failed.” Schuyler Smith ‘12, a declared student atheist, explained how a study of non-religion would be a worthwhile academic pursuit. “I feel like it’s important for people to understand that there is actually a history and there is a real rational argument behind atheism,” he said. Some students pointed out the long-term benefits of such a class.
all topics are equally worthy in academics: “My understanding is that any university worth its salt provides no censorship whatsoever on ideas. That’s what academic freedom means. You know, that’s a principle I’m willing to go to the mat for.” The debate is not limited to Fairfield. At Ohio State University, Steven Brown is currently offering a course comparing atheism and religion. “Engaging in conversations with people you disagree with helps you to see where your own weak points are and it ultimately helps you to improve your own position,” he said in an interview with the school newspaper. But what are the odds of starting a course teaching non-belief in a god at a Catholic university?
retired in the 1980s, taking the class with him. While the topic might merit a second attempt in the classroom here at Fairfield, there’s disagreement as to which department should teach it as a course, if at all. “Religious studies teaches about religions, so it wouldn’t make any sense for them to teach about not religion,” said Fr. Paul Fitzgerald S.J., senior vice president for academic affairs. “The chemistry department doesn’t teach history.” Others felt differently. “I think, probably, its home would be in the religious studies department, conceivably the philosophy department,” said Lakeland. Thiel was not confident that there exists a semester’s worth of
material for this type of class. He said that atheism is a generally recent development in religious studies and that its justifications are all the “same argument with a few variations.” “I couldn’t see how I could make it an interesting course for more than three weeks,” he explained. So how much student support would be needed to make this class possible? Doody explained that it would be a worthwhile venture if there were “twelve to fourteen people interested enough in it who would take it as a serious course.” An online survey conducted with 50 Fairfield students showed that there is adequate support for this course by Doody’s standards. Nine students agreed that they would shape their schedules to ensure that they could take the class; 19 students said they would definitely take it if their schedule allowed; and 12 students said they would consider possibly taking the course. Those interested were not limited to atheists. Of the participants, eight Christian students and one Jewish student said they would definitely take the class, schedule allowing. Other students of faith also expressed interest, although not as definite in nature. However, the results also voiced opposition. One Christian student said that although the school barely does anything in regard to accommodating diversity, a class on non-religion would be inappropriate at a Catholic university. “The commitment to diversity means that we have to treat everybody the same,” said Lakeland. “And everybody is entitled to the same respect and attention and the freedom to grow.”
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Opinion
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Mikaela Tierney |Editor-in-Chief Gabriella Tutino |Executive Editor
Stuck on Repeat Surprise! There’s a student forum tonight. Did you know about it? We didn’t think so.
Students are invited to speak up about communication and dialogue between students and administrators – but that’s the problem right there. It has come to our attention that certain students received information about the forum, but not the majority of the student body. Why did the administration, in their efforts to open a dialogue between the two groups, make such a forum in a limited setting? It wasn’t posted on Students 411, it wasn’t sent out in a campuswide email, and it wasn’t even disclosed to Mirror staff until yesterday. In last week’s editorial, we noted that in a recent email, “Fr. Von Arx said, ‘I encourage you to participate actively in this collective process to develop and support strategies that move the University forward.’” How are students supposed to be involved in this collective process if they’re not allowed to be a part of the collective? If students can’t be involved in helping to guide the direction of their University, how can they play a real role in the campus community? If there’s one thing the departing Mirror staff can leave you with, it’s the hope that students continue to hold the administration accountable for their actions this year and in the future. Keep the heat on them, Fairfield. So go to the forum. Speak up. Voice your opinions and be heard!
By Salvatore Trifilio Contributing Writer
study, polling 38 Fairfield University students, ages 18-22, 60 percent of students indicated that social media might be harmful to their romantic life. That being said, the majority of Fairfield students say they are happy with where we stand as a generation. The same poll showed over 3/4 of students say they are happy with the way technology has created a culture of connectivity for our generation. “I’m not sure we really realize how dramatic this change is,” says Schlichting. “It changes the nature of relationships between individuals.” And relationships have certainly changed. Although college students may be the overwhelming minority, social media has helped grow and give rise to online dating communities. Still, websites such as datemyschool.com, cater specifically to college students, and according to a Yahoo.com article from Feb. 14, datemyschool.com “is now the largest college dating website ever.” Although Shreshth Dugar, marketing director of datemyschool.com, boasts that the website’s lifetime membership is nearing 100,000 members, only one member is registered to Fairfield University. According to poll results,
this does not come as a surprise. In response to the question, “Have you used, plan to use, or are currently using an online dating site”? all but one student answered “No”. Schlichting believes that this is a result of living in a college atmosphere where it is easier for students to meet new men and women with out any outside aid, predicting these numbers may change in the years that come after college. Nevertheless, Emma Lasch ’15, is not convinced by Schlichting’s prediction. “I just think it’s weird to start off online,” says Lasch. “I think that it’s more real to meet someone and start contact that way.” Junior Frank Aquino, agrees, saying, "I think social media is a way to continue a conversation with someone. It's not really a way to meet people.” And the majority of students agree with Aquino, with only one student saying they “never” look up a person on Facebook, after meeting them in person. Technology and social media have connected our generation in an unprecedented way, but is this a positive or negative thing? “It’s too early to tell,” says Schlichting, “[but] it seems that it is creating substantial substative social change.”
•Many Juniors and Seniors with internships missed them this Tuesday. • Facebook Timeline supposedly becoming mandatory soon.
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.
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•Men's Lacrosse won against Stony Brook 13 -10.
OMG Are You Facebook Official Yet?! Are you connected? Let’s play a game. Try naming five people, peers of yours, who are not connected to a social media site such as Facebook. Too tough? How about three? How about one? If you’re still stuck at one, you surely are not alone. Social media is on the rise and its ceiling is nowhere in site, making some believe our generation is the most connected and yet most isolated ever. Dr. Kurt C. Schlichting, professor of Sociology at Fairfield University, describes the rise of social media as happening within a “nanominute” of history. “I’m stunned,” said Schlichting, “Because it’s happened so quickly, I don’t think that we realize how profoundly it may have changed interactions in society.” Students at Fairfield are very much aware of these societal changes, however. Sophomore Pierelle Eppie, ’14, believes Facebook has become a detriment towards the relationships we build as students. “It ruins the personal aspects of relationships,” said Eppie. Schlichting agrees, describing social media as facilitating a “diminishing intimacy” in our interpersonal relationships. In an unscientific
Tonight at 5:30 pm in BCC 200. Be there.
• We did not have Tuesday classes this week.
Vincent Ferrer/The Mirror
Do you think people are too addicted to Facebook? Tell us your thoughts. Have an opinion about something? Send us your thoughts at opinion@fairfieldmirror.com
• Men's Basketball beat Marist 60 - 49.
•The long weekend is over.
•The Rex Plex is finally getting renovated.
•Midterms have started.
•Lent starts today.
•Last minute information about the student public forum being held today.
Notable and Quotable: "Once you rid the terms 'failure' and 'self-doubt' from your personal vocabulary, nothing will stop you from achieving your dreams." - Gordana Rasic, "Innovative Designers 'Emerge!' In NYC Fashion Show" pg. 10
Opinion
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Page 8
Letter to the Editor To President Von Arx,
Vincent Ferrer/The Mirror
Whitney, Did We Love You Too Much? By Samantha Santana Contributing Writer What did Lady Gaga wear to the Grammy’s? Where are Brad and Angelina adopting their next child from? What is Lindsay Lohan in jail for this time? Is Khloe Kardashian really adopted? These are the questions that most of our generation seems to generally care about most. It is a known fact that nowadays people want to know more about which celebrity is dating whom rather than what is happening in Syria. When we turn on the news it is common to see the latest indiscretions of celebrities plastered on our television screens. This is why it came as no surprise that the death of Whitney Houston was the number one item on Fox News. You would have to have been living under a rock to have missed the death of one of the world’s most recognized and beloved singers. Whitney Houston died on Feb. 11 at the Beverly Hilton Hotel just a day before the 54th Annual Grammy Awards. Her death has been the
most talked about topic for the past two weeks. Within minutes of news of her death, every major news source was covering the story of her death with frequent updates. The circumstances surrounding her death were made public almost immediately. News channels were reporting the latest details that were being uncovered and revealing the rumored cause of death. While although Houston’s death is tragic, one cannot help but ask if it is the most important or newsworthy issue currently in the media. When the news of a celebrity’s death hits, why does it garner so much of society’s attention? Who is to blame? Our fascination with celebrities extends as far back as anyone can remember. As time has progressed and technology has developed, the means of getting the most intimate details about our favorite celebrities has been made easier and the access we have to them is almost unlimited. This access we have makes us feel as though we have a sort of connection to them despite not ac-
tually knowing them. Thus, when a celebrity dies we feel as though we have lost a close friend. We mourn with their families and friends. Society becomes completely affected. A death is always heartwrenching no matter whose it is. That being said I find it odd that death of a well-known celebrity gains so much attention while other news get so little. Just last week, a massive fire destroyed a Honduran prison; killing at least 350 people -yet CNN, along with numerous other news affiliates, consistently covered Houston’s death and funeral. Do not get me wrong. Houston’s death is a tragedy. Music has suffered a major loss and she will no doubt be greatly missed. However, I believe our priorities as a society are somewhat askew. Although Houston’s death is news, there are much more pressing matters at hand. Our attention should be focused on issues that affect us politically and economically rather than the loss of a talented singer.
I was moved by your gesture, in an email to the student body, encouraging us “to participate actively in the collective process to develop and support strategies that move the University forward” but like the editors of The Mirror (in their article “Student Solutions”) I felt unclear as to how I was expected to do so. As such, I have chosen to respond openly—just like the conversation began—and I am submitting this letter, respectfully, as an op-ed. The topic I wish to discuss is admittedly tangentially related to the budget, however it is no less important and certainly applies as a strategy to move our University forward. Namely, I wish to discuss the nature of our endowment investment. It appears that we are falling behind many of our peer institutions in actively working to ensure a responsible investment strategy. Yale and Wesleyan have active Committees on Investor Responsibility, and many Jesuit schools around the country are striving to invest responsibly. For example, Seattle University has invested over half a million dollars in its local community, Fordham is preparing to follow suit, and Loyola Universities in Chicago and New Orleans have committees dedicated to active shareholding to engage with corporations about their practices and request improvements when necessary. I believe that it is important for the reputation of our University, the security of our endowment, and the future of the world that we recognize our power as an institutional investor and strive to invest our $255 million dollar endowment with the same firm ethical convictions of our Jesuit identity that guide us in other aspects of our development. I recognize that the main metric for the success of our endowment investment has historically been its rate of returns and that, realistically, a growing endowment improves Fairfield University’s ability to provide a competitive
education. As a student I am as interested in the future success and growth of our University as any administrator or member of the Board of Trustees, and I wouldn’t publicize these concerns if there was any doubt in my mind that responsible investment efforts would necessarily compromise the returns to the endowment. Instead, I believe that responsible investing is a necessary component of our commitment to social responsibility and environmental stewardship but that it can coexist with the strong financial returns we all hope to see. I have a dream that the colleges and universities of this country will recognize the power of their total endowments of more than $350 billion dollars. I have a dream that all institutional investors will one day use this power to address the problems in the world by investing only in responsible businesses and refusing to invest in corporations with practices which propagate injustice, inequality, poverty, and environmental destruction. I have a dream that colleges and universities will expect and demand that their investments are not only profitable, but socially and environmentally ethical, and yield a strong triple bottom line. I have a dream that in so demanding, colleges and universities of this country will change the industry standard and necessitate that all businesses seeking investors must first certify that they leave no trace of a negative impact on the world. Lastly, I have a dream that Fairfield University will be one of the leaders in seeking this change and I implore you, as our President, to lead the way in beginning a constructive and focused discussion about our endowment investment and the impact it has on the world. With all due respect and urgency, Arturo Jaras Watts '14 President of the Proactive Investment Club
The Beach Is Going Nowhere! By Caleigh Tansey Contributing Writer In the past few years the housing process hasn’t exactly been stress free at Fairfield. Getting the ideal housing option for on or off campus living at Fairfield has always been something of a "cross your fingers and hope for the best" kind of ordeal. Luckily, after the most recent housing lottery for rising seniors to live on the beach, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Fairfield’s IRHA has been working endlessly to accommodate all students and take into consideration the complaints of the past few years. As long as anyone can remember, living at Fairfield beach has always been a tradition. It has not been until the last few years that it has become a problem for students to get released. Any student who is stressing about living on the beach in the future can now shake off their nerves because students will always be beachside. “It is a rumor that the beach is going away,” said Kevin Reda, the president of IRHA. “It is not feasible to take the away the beach, there are not enough beds [for students] on campus.” The new residential buildings that
have been built and the renovation of Dolan Hall into apartments has created many more options for students of all years to choose where they want to live, and most likely fulfill their dream of beach living for their senior year. “I realized that living at the beach senior year is such a big part of the Fairfield experience. The beach was one of the things that attracted me most to coming to Fairfield,” said Megan Powers '13. After last year’s lottery release for the beach, the juniors this year had very little hope for living on the Long Island Sound with their friends in the fall of 2012. “My future roommates and I were extremely discouraged. We were told that only 200 students would get released to the beach next year. The only hope we had of assuring that we would get released earlier was applying for Build-a-House, which we did not get. After so much anxiety and worry following this meeting, we found out on Feb. 10 at 9:45 a.m. that we had gotten released,” said Powers. The issue with the applications
last year was that there were far too many. This year there were about a hundred fewer students who applied to live off campus. The beach has always been something that draws students to Fairfield in the first place, so threats of taking that away have disheartened many students and caused them to start thinking about alternative living situations for their senior year.
“In order to maximize housing options this year, the best option was to release all students to the beach,”said Reda. Reda has high hopes for the compromises that IRHA, FUSA and the administration have made this year with the housing situation. Fairfield beach will never be taken away from students, and to ensure that, IRHA has created Build-a-Beach House. There will be five houses at the beach that are dedicated to students and all of the community work that they put their time and effort into. “It is a good way for students to give back to the community and involve the town of Fairfield,” said Reda. With Build-a-Beach House, students can live on the beach and stay involved with the Fairfield community. Notoriously known for beach parties and the Grape, there is in fact much more substance to the Fairfield student than meets the eye to the neighborhood complainers. For underclassman, these new housing changes leave a bit more hope for beach living in the future. “This year's amount of Vincent Ferrer/The Mirror applicants released did give
me hope, but I know that it will most likely not be as easy or painless for next year and other years to come,” said Mary Grace Galterio '15. Where hopes for beach living in the future have been raised, the fear that the application process has become too easy becomes another battle in need of tackling for future Fairfield seniors. “Now with everyone released it could make the beach even more appealing to the Fairfield student body, causing more people to apply, hence more competition within the application pool,” further commented Galterio. This being a valid point, Reda assures that the new housing options should begin to level out the flow of seniors to the beach. “Each year will be different, there will be a trending downward with applications,” said Reda. The legacy of students living at Fairfield beach will never go away. The administration is aware of the unique asset it brings to our community and Fairfield alum have some of their best memories just being down at the beach with their friends. If students are still fearful of the housing lottery and the process it entails, IRHA has made strides to eliminate any future headaches it may cause.
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Emer e! Fashion Sho w g Story By Ashley Zangara Contributing Writer
Illustration by Tebben Gill Lopez
Photography by Richard o'Connor
Contributing Photographer
Staff Writer
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
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Innovative Designers 'Emerge!' in NYC Fashion Show
headbands were used to compliment the outfits. Goca Designs by Omar Villalobos and Gordana Rasic was one of the highlights of the evening. The designers played around with feathers and furs to compliment their beautiful garments. The furs wrapped around the sleeves of blazers, while the feathers on the collars added a fun, earthy vibe to their graceful attire. In such a cutthroat industry, aspiring designers have much to worry about. When asked if she could provide any future designers with some advice, Rasic explained the importance of not doubting yourself. "Entering the fashion industry is no easy task, and much of the world will doubt you and your efforts," said Rasic, "but if you want the world to stop doubting you, you must first stop doubting yourself. Once you rid the terms 'failure' and 'selfdoubt' from your personal vocabulary, nothing will stop you from achieving Photos by Richard O' Connor/ The Mirror your dreams.” Fierce and fashionable, models strutted across the runway, showing off designs by newcomers like Michael Of course, there are Alan Stein , Terri Stevens, Jahi' Fitzgerald , Omar Villalobos and Gordana Rasic. going to be challenges along the way, and the By Ashley Zangara ments of Vogue Magazine's Con- bers with his strategic slits and Goca designers’ main obstacle can Contributing Writer tributing Editor Andre Leon Tal- high necklines. His floor-sweeping definitely resonate with many colley. dresses were breathtaking. lege students. Fashion icon Diane Von FurstMichael Alan Stein of Michael "Our biggest challenge has his past Valentine’s Day, enberg presented Talley with the Alan Stein Designs was the next been balancing everything," said New York City had a date Fashion Innovator Award at the designer on the runway. Models Villalobos. "It's quite difficult to with fashion. The Emerge! beginning of the event. were seen sporting neutral colors still be in school, have a job, intern, Fashion Runway Show was held at Furstenberg exclaimed that as well as earthy, olive greens and and run a label. We did not expect the Broad Street Ballroom on Feb. Talley is someone “really special,” beige and black mixes. He seemed it to be this tough, but it takes a lot 14 as part of this year's Fashion and she commended his contribu- to use the same color scheme but of planning and organizing. No Week. tions to helping young designers with different style dresses. Thick one thing is more important than This spectacular event, hosted get involved in the industry. the other, so it's impossible to priby actress Tracee Ellis Ross, allows Talley acknowledged the diffioritize. A lot of people have told us “Once you rid the six emerging designers to show- culties for anyone to emerge in the to prioritize, but it's not a matter of terms 'failure' and case their latest designs. Produced fashion industry, and he also apprioritizing, it's a matter of balanc'self-doubt' from your by D. Williams Public Relations plauded how wonderful Emerge! ing." personal vocabulary, Group, Emerge! debuted during is for giving these young designers The stylish Barbara Bates of nothing will stop you Fashion Week in February 2011 a vehicle to show their work. Barbara Bates Designs also offrom achieving your and since then has provided a Once the lights went down fered advice for aspiring designdreams." platform for emerging designers to and the music turned on, Elie ers. “Make wearable pieces. You display their work twice a year. Kuame Couture was the first colwant to sell your designs and make Not only did the show provide lection to appear on the runway. money,” said Bates. -Gordana Rasic, great fashion and a peek into what Elie traveled all the way from Paris She definitely used her own to expect for Fall 2012 trends, but to showcase his collection, and he designer advice for her runway collection it also celebrated the accomplish- did not disappoint audience memthat evening. Bates' collection re-
T
flected the elegant, black scheme that was found throughout the fashion show. She showed audience members all the different ways the color black can look amazing on any woman. Her designs are perfect for the fashion forward professional woman who wants to look great on the job. She played around with furs as well to dress up simple jackets and sleeves. Terri Stevens from "Project Runway" is the owner of Funkinbeautiful Designs, and she also presented her interesting collection, which mostly consisted of black garments. Her long, black, mesh-like dress as well as her dark green above-the-knee zip dress were standout pieces. In an interview with chocolatecity.cc, Stevens talked about the skills needed to be a fashion designer. Stevens said, “You have to be relevant. You don’t really have to know how to sew but it definitely helps. I really think it’s an inner sense of style and the ability to know how jackets, pants or what have you are supposed to fit. If you doubt it, it is probably a hot mess and just start over." Stevens definitely has that inner sense of style, as demonstrated through her clothing that evening. Stevens also went on to say, “I am always inspired by Michael Jackson. His music, movies, style and childlike innocence but shrewd business sense is always a part of me.” Jahi’ Fitzgerald of Evoli Faccion did a great job as well. His long, pink prom-like dress looked absolutely gorgeous on the model as she strutted down the runway. In an interview for Emerge!, Fitzgerald explained how his style reflects the 1940s. “My style is sort of Grace Kelly meets Grace Jones. It’s classic with a little bit of an edge,” said Fitzgerald. He continued that for his runway collection he used “rich colors for the fall-nice, deep, moody colors.” It is safe to assume that furs, feathers and emerald greens will be making an entrance this upcoming fall in the world of fashion. This year's Emerge! Fashion Runway Show was truly a beautiful night accompanied by beautiful clothing.
Didier William: Art Speaks for Itself
By Olivia Snoddy Contributing Writer
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llowing for his figures to activate their own space, one Haitian painter calls for a suspension of naturalism. Space, movement and time are what concerns painter and printmaker Didier William, who strives to have “figures become fluid and malleable,” he said during his lecture in Loyola Hall on Feb. 16. But before paying attention to these concerns, the artist must first know the surface he or she is dealing with and the nature of the bodily form, according to William. As a physical painter, William finds his greatest connection to his
artwork in his ever-changing location of home. Born in Haiti and raised in Miami, Florida, his relationship with space was always shifting. Analogous for his altering home identity, William allows space to consume itself in his work. Because of this, he lets his wood and charcoal paintings develop organically, particularly with his use of gel stain. “It became a whole new character for me. Everything would lead to something new,” said Williams about his collaboration with his materials. Wood, charcoal and stain connected more for him than a brush, paint and canvas. With his use of gel stain, Wil-
liam’s drawings become suspended, allowing for his materials to dictate how the painting will appear. This “primal relationship,” as William referred to it, becomes an “unpredicted catalyst” because of the forcefulness of the gel stain. Connecting to his home roots, William looks at family stories, old photographs and the distance between reality and birthplace to create his figures, seeking his connection to the world around him. “I wanted figures to relish in space of home and imagination,” William said of the weightlessness, depth and concavity of his work, wanting to give all his figures a “life of their own.” While creating his large char-
coal on wood displays, William works on the floor to always alter his viewpoint and orientation, once again finding a connection to his shifting grounding. Moreover, he views all work as a series, all part of the same narrative. This allows him to become more engaged in his work, seeking out a direct, physical relationship with it, while still having the bodily control over his figures. Knowing the body form and how it moves allows him to manipulate it. William de-familiarizes the body to the point where it becomes foreign. Even though his figures become unfamiliar,
Art | page 11
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
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Artist finds identity in artwork | page 11 people can still connect and relate to the form of the body. This is how the “paintings begin to talk back,” said William. “I definitely connected to the work, especially once he explained his process and the inspiration behind each piece,” said Samantha Palazzi ’13, a studio art minor. “His work was extremely abstract and used a wide variety of mediums and media, but he had such characterization behind it that he almost convinced the audience that it wasn’t abstract at all." Born in 1983 in Haiti, William moved to Miami at the age of six. As time went on he made his sojourn up north, where he finally ended up in Connecticut, receiving various awards such as MFA Fellowships and Excellence in Arts and Painting. William received his Bachelor of Fine Arts in painting from the Maryland Institute College of Art and then continued his schooling to obtain a Master of Fine Arts in painting and
printmaking in 2009 from the Yale School of Art at Yale University. “I think it is important to see how an artist talks about their work in order for me to know how I can be shaping the vague aspects of my own projects, [which]my audience will have the opportunity to interpret and make their own,” said new media student Katie Boyle ’13, who was in attendance for her New Media 10 course. For an artist whose home was always changing, William has found his grounded identity through his painting, which he fills with lively bodily figures. He navigates his paintings, keeping his direct relationship intact. For one who wonders what it would be like get underneath his trusting, yet skeptical gel stain, Didier William has learned to trust his materials, allowing for a natural suspension to take place. Contributed by: Didier William
"Sleepwalkers," 2010 is an example of Didier William's work as a physical painter. Dider, while working as an artists, is also an Adjunct Assistant Professor in Art at Vassar College.
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The Vine
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
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Music Beats
Photo from Chamber Orchestra Kremlin website
Musicians of Chamber Orchestra Kremlin pose in a photo taken at a music theatre. The well-received Russian orchestra recently played at Fairfield University's Quick Center on Feb. 17.
By Nicoletta Richardson Contributing Writer
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hen a standing ovation occurs after a performance, musicians play an encore to please the crowd. But tonight at the Quick Center, the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin didn’t receive one standing ovation – they received three. The Chamber Orchestra Kremlin is a Russian musical group that was founded by Misha Rachlevsky, the current music instructor of the group, in 1991. Over the period of 20 years, the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin has achieved honorable status as an internationally known Russian Orchestra. The Chamber Orchestra Kremlin has won awards such as the Diapason d’Or in France and the Critics Choice in London’s Gramophone. Based in Moscow, Russia, the group has performed over 1,400 concerts in 25 coun-
Standing Ovation for Chamber Orchestra Kremlin tries, including countries of Europe, North and South America and the Far East. “When I found out the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin was touring, I was wondering if they were coming anywhere near here,” said Gary Woods, director of the Fairfield University Quick Center. “The answer was yes. Also, music of this take – classical music – sounds great in the hall.” The musicians, dressed in black, walked onto the stage and took their seats as the performance started. Violinists, violists, cellists and bass cellists then took the stage along with the music director, who faced the orchestra.
Joining them in the third accompaniment was the cellist, Maxim Kozlov, who played solo although he was apart of the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin. A chair was brought out onstage by Misha Rachlevsky, and placed in front of the orchestra to acknowledge Kozlov. For the first half of the show, Kozlov was on the stage the majority of the time, playing "Mirage for Cello & Orchestra" and "Cello Concerto No. 1 in C Major, Hob." As Kozlov started to play, his head swung passionately to the music around him. Maxim Kozlov has accomplished so much throughout his
career as a cellist, but he describes the journey as not being easy. “Neither of my parents were musicians, but my mother had a dream of me becoming one,” said Kozlov after the performance. “It was very tough though; within the music profession in Russia you had to determine that’s what you wanted to do at age 16.” Growing up within Russia, Kozlov graduated from the Special Music School for Gifted Children in Ekaterinburg, Russia, and then proceeded to gain a masters degree in cello and a graduate performing art diploma, along with several other scholarships. “Music is the only thing I can
But then we adopted it, so we’re like delinquent country club kids. We have a lot of different names. TM: Would you say that sometimes the name would reflect the musical style of the band? UWCC: I think it used to. It used to kinda like be pop-rock, surfer-bro in the music. Which was fun, it was happy. And now the music has changed a little bit, so it doesn’t actually go with it…which is better, because now everything is more indie-folk-rock. It’s definitely changed a lot if you compare the two records. The second record should be coming out soon. TM: Do you find it more difficult to be accepted as musicians because you are women and college kids? UWCC: It’s hard. It’s different. You have to be a guy, or a really butch girl, or overly sexualized... We just like being who we are, trying to weasel out way into the indie world, which I think is a little more accepting of women, more than pop. There just still is a stigma.
It’s hard to explain because it’s not like, “Oh we hate women, we think girls are inferior"...This is what music does: in times of pressure…the primal, misogynist, “I’m the man, gonna take charge” idea: it hap-
pens. That’s what happens when you see people get under pressure, you see exactly who they are and they revert back to their natural instincts, and natural instincts for some people can work with others
do fairly well in life, and when you’re good at something, you better do it as well as you can,” said Maxim Kozlov. “You just have to add a personal touch.” The second half of the performance by the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin ended with a standing ovation by the audience, and a few moments later, Rachlevsky started conducting the encore piece. After that encore there was another standing ovation, so another encore was played that led to yet another standing ovation. At the end of the night, three encores had been played. “I’m really glad I was able to immerse myself into the culture of the Chamber Orchestra Kremlin, and I feel more educated coming out of this performance,” said Laura Ballanco '14. Another audience member, a Fairfield resident, said the performance was “wonderful, very eyeopening and brilliant.”
Band Spotlight: Underwater Country Club By Gabriella Tutino Executive Editor
U
nderwater Country Club (UWCC) is a Fairfield University student band that combines the classical sounds of string instruments with the electrical noise of alternative rock. Consisting of brothers Andrew and James Robinson (guitar, vocals and drums), sisters Anna and Catherine Wolk (violin and cello, back-up vocals) and The Mirror’s own staff member Martin O’Sullivan (bass guitar), the group has played numerous New Jersey street fairs and some small-time New York clubs. The Mirror sat down with the sisters of UWCC and listened to their thoughts about the band, the music industry and their experiences. TM: How did the name come about for the band? UWCC: We didn’t choose that name, but we adapted it. The boys said it was because the country club they worked at “went underwater.”
and for others girls are stupid. TM: Besides classical music, what would identify as the musical influences of the band?
Band | page 14 Contributed by Claire Lorenzo
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
The Vine
Continued from page 13 UWCC: Everyone’s all over the place. [Catherine] loves the Smiths. Morrisey is [her] god, [her] idol. So she’s very influenced by him and 60s stuff. Same thing with James [Robinson]. Andrew is influenced by James Taylor…we’re all influenced by My Chemical Romance a bit, except for Anna, she never was an emo girl. So our influences would be Arcade Fire, Smashing Pumpkins, the Smiths and the Beach Boys when it comes to harmonies. TM: Can you guys enlighten me on your views of music?
UWCC: I say the whole institution should be abolished and built back from the ground up. I just think it’s so hard...We’re actually really young in this music industry. All of our friends in bands are like 23, 24, 25. So we’re babies. But still, I feel a sense of urgency that this kind of music, this feeling, this vibe that is happening right now in the indie music industry is going to disappear. I feel like it is being replaced by electronic. Real music is starting to be taken over— we got a synth, so we’re preparing for the Digital Age. But like with Lana Del Rey, everything’s electronic, but then Jack White comes
out with his new song and that’s back to basics, harmonies, guitar. I guess it’s just a phase. TM: How do you guys feel about music and social media? UWCC: Anna uses her Twitter to promote the band, and it makes people feel like they’re a part of it, because we do have some superfans. It’s also a great way to have other people who are musicians learn about you, like Surfer Blood and the Flaming Lips follow us. Facebook is good because it shows how many fans you have. Catherine also uses Tumblr to promote the band as well. When people reblog a picture or our
music, it is great advertising. TM: Music seems to be integral to your being. Do you think you guys would continue playing with the band post-college or go out on your own? UWCC: We’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves, but we won’t be revealing them just yet. We’re going to see how Underwater Country
Page 14 Club goes. We always have a backup plan, we’re always writing stuff, we’re just going to settle. One of our acquaintances just left her band, Alexandra Lawn of Ra Ra Riot. It was weird to see that because they’ve been together for six years. But things change and people change, music changes so you never know what’s going to happen.
Underwater Country Club’s next show is at The Space in Hamden, Conn this Thursday, Feb. 23. The show is open to all ages. The concert is sponsored by WVOF, and there will be vans driving students to and from the show. Doors open at 7 pm and tickets are $10. You can also download the song “Keep the Silence” off of Soundcloud.
iPick, You Listen By Jeannine Nocera Contributing Writer
"I Hate College" by Sam Adams
No matter how many times my friends tell me that Sam Adams is the biggest tool on the face of the earth, I will always love this boy. This remake of the classic “I Love College” shows just exactly how I feel about college, hating it yet loving all these parties. Let’s be real, how many people were excited to go to college because they were about to indulge themselves in the large fountain of knowledge? Reality check: we were all excited to let loose and go crazy, “finishing kegs and crushin’ bottles of Bacardi.” This song just hits home, especially when you visit Sammy’s college, where it’s evident that if you went there, you would hate the classes and love all the parties at those frats. Trust me, I know.
"Dirty Talk" by Wynter Gordon If you haven’t been out this semester yet, you may not have heard this song. However, this song has been stuck in my head for about six weeks now. This song has a great beat that completely distracts me from some of the strangest lyrics that I have heard a girl sing since Britney Spears' “I’m a Slave 4 U.” The beat just gets me dancing no matter what. I could be sitting in my beanbag chair, but once this song starts playing, I can’t help but do some legendary dance moves on that beanbag.
but true. If you want a happy pumpup song, t h i s
nights. That's why this song is at the top of my playlist every time I get ready to go out. should be at the top of your list for downloads. The upbeat, European-sounding music just gets me in the mood to dance, and I can’t help but love the fact that these boys are British, making me want to listen to them even more often.
"Release Me" by Agnes I'm a little embarrassed to say that I am completely in love with this song, yet I can’t help but love it. This song a l s o blasts on the hourlong playlist at work, and when the work day is six hours long, it’s hard not to walk around and sing along to this catchy UK club song. Agnes, a name that most people do not yet recognize, has one of the most amazing voices I have ever heard, besides Adele. She will make you want to get up and dance the night away. This upbeat love song will put anyone into the mood to go clubbing or even venture out to the townhouses on those cold winter
"Glad You Came" by The Wanted After working at Abercrombie and Fitch for five months, I hated the store's hour-long playlist more than anything. But one song caught my attention, and that was "Gold Forever" by The Wanted. I started listening to the group over the summer, and just recently they have become very popular with their hit song, “Glad You Came.” These UK boys are absolutely amazing and make me sing along loudly for the entire campus to hear. Sad
"Jasey Rae" by All Time Low This is my favorite song of all time. I love this song just because I am obsessed with alternative punk rock. All Time Low is a very laid back band that I have loved ever since high school. Tied with Dave Matthews for my favorite band, All Time Low just always makes me happy, and their songs have catchy lyrics that get stuck in your head all day long. “Jasey Rae” has always been my favorite song, and I play it at least once a day. It may be too girly for some people, but for me, it’s absolutely perfect. Give this band and song once chance. You might fall in love with their older songs like “Jasey Rae,” or even their newer songs like “Time-Bomb” or “I Feel Like Dancing.”
Contributed Photo
Photo by Loan Le/The Mirror
Acclaimed Author Lisa See Sees Beauty in Culture By Meghan Galluci Contributing Writer
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ccording to author and Fairfield University professor Da Chen, Lisa See is “the international rockstar of world literature.” When See took her stand in the Oak Room on Feb. 21, the crowd, previously abuzz about themes of strong women and complicated relationships, silenced as though awaiting the opening chord of their favorite song. See finds inspiration from not only her personal history – the topic of 1995’s "On Gold Mountain" – but also experiences and emotions common to all humans. “History
affects ordinary people,” See said. Her interest comes in reviving “stories lost, forgotten, or deliberately covered up.” “I love the accuracy of the information about the women and their strengths,” says Chelsea Mingrone '14, an Asian Studies major. Jack O’Meara '15 shares an interest in the “historical accuracy” of See’s work, while Charles DeFilippo' 15 savors the “dynamic changes and surprises.” See’s newest novel attempts to unpack the complications of hidden history. "Dreams of Joy," which debuted at number 1 on the New York Times Best Seller’s List, is set in 1950s China, reeling in response to the Great Leap Forward, a program instituted by Mao Ze-
dong that resulted in devastating famine. More than 45 million people starved to death within only three years as a result. See visited China with Amy Tan, author of "The Joy Luck Club," and learned through interaction with people that many continued to believe the famine to be “three years of bad weather." "Dreams of Joy" grows too, from the root of the motherdaughter relationship. The Chinese character for mother-love, See explained, originates in the words for pain and love. “Real life happens,” See said. “What do you do as a mother? You listen, because there’s nothing we can do except
Author Talk | page 15
Meghan Galluci/The Mirror
Lisa See, author of "Dreams of Joy," signed her book and posed for a picture with Chelsea Mingrone '14.
The Vine
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Page 15
Continued from page 14: See hopes readers will enjoy new novel carry their pain in our hearts.” Historical complexities interwoven with the ascents and demises of relationships are the hallmarks that keep See’s readers engaged, enamored and often, tearing up. “I know the books are sad,” See apologized, relaying fervent email correspondence with readers who often find themselves in precarious circumstances – whether on vacation or in bed – weeping at See’s
words. “At the end of Dreams of Joy, I hope you’ll be in tears of happiness of the triumph of goodness, joy and grace," she concluded. See is currently deep in research for her next novel, which will explore Chinese nightclubs in the United States in the 1930s. There is no doubt that See has the ability to captivate and move an audience into not only
believable circumstances, but tangible emotional rigors. See seems to be more than content that the past may not be perfectly peaceful, for whatever it held, it has provided her with material for her stories and success, and has led to this moment, a rockstar of an author dashing between the aisles of chairs set in the Oak Room with a smile of humility and joy, distributing books to her audience.
Movie Reviews “This Means War,” A Romantic Comedy Action Flick That Works By Annemarie Veira Staff Writer
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arely do you ever see a blend of two opposite genres work, and work well. Other films that have attempted to combine action and romantic comedy haven’t had much success, but “This Means War” accomplishes the needed balance to make it all work. The film follows Lauren (Reese Witherspoon) who works as a consumer products evaluator. Lauren’s good friend Trish (Chelsea Handler) puts up a profile for Lauren on a dating site against her wishes to get her back into the dating game in Los Angeles. Lauren ends up heading out on a date with Tuck (Tom Hardy), one of the good looking prospects who viewed her profile. Tuck is a CIA operative who has been grounded, along with his partner FDR (Chris Pine), after botching an operation in Hong Kong. Prior to the date, Lauren was worried about Tuck being a possible serial killer, while FDR was worried about Tuck blowing the date. The two friends devise an escape
system: FDR will be hanging out at the video store around the corner from where Tuck is having his date. Calling FDR with one ring means get him out of it, two means it’s a good time but not that great, and three means he’s fine and FDR can head out. After hitting it off with Lauren, Tuck signals FDR to head on home, and Lauren and Tuck continue their date. Tuck quickly clears up that he isn’t a serial killer, and then he shares that he has a son, but the relationship with his wife didn’t work out. At the end of the date, the two agree to see each other again. On her way home, Lauren heads around the corner to the video store to rent a movie. She runs into FDR, who was scoping for his own prospects, and they too hit it off. A few weeks after both men begin dating Lauren, FDR and Tuck get a break in their botched case from Hong Kong. The German national and possible dealer they were tracking is planning on coming to Los Angeles for his revenge since Tuck publicly killed his brother in Hong Kong. As the guys attempt to crack
Contributed Photo
Mix in two hotties who happen to play spies and an ever youthful Reese Witherspoon who's dating them at the same time, and you get a great rom-com flick. the case of this dealer’s whereabouts, both find out that they are dating the same girl. They agree to keep dating her and have her choose between the two. However, when their case stalls in terms of information, both men begin to use their CIA resources to learn not only about Lauren to win her over, but also check on each other’s dating ability. There are many points during this film that I laughed out loud along with the audience.
The various situations Tuck and FDR put themselves in are comedic alone, but pair that with their dialogue, and you can’t stop the laughter. Between the comedic abilities of Hardy, Pine and Witherspoon, the movie's casting helps propel the plot. The film’s pacing keeps you going from laughs to the next round of gunfire, and although the plot works with the action, I wish there was a bit more action . The action from their case
bookends the film, with little action in the middle; I was hoping for a bit more throughout the rest of the film. However, the action did add to the tension of the establishing relationships. Overall this movie was a great time, and I would definitely see it again. I highly recommend this movie if you need a good laugh and good time with some action and amazing fight sequences. Leave your comments and questions at fairfieldmirror.com.
“Safe House” Safely Snags Top of Box Office By Annemarie Veira Staff Writer
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he CIA assigns Matt Weston (Ryan Reynolds) to be a safe house operator in South Africa. Spending an entire year stagnant, hoping he could prove himself to the agency in order to move up the ladder, Matt gets his chance. Suddenly told he has a “house
guest” Matt finds out that the agency has brought in Tobin Frost (Denzel Washington) the infamous CIA agent who has gone rouge for nine years, and who has sold agency secrets to various governments all over the world. Bringing Frost to the safe house, a special interrogation team is called in to work Frost over. True to form, Frost is informed that although he has rights, because they
Contributed Photo
Denzel Washington plays a rouge CIA agent in "Safe House."
aren’t in the United States he has no rights before he is interrogated. However, the team isn’t able to work Frost over very long, since the safe house is compromised by an extraction team. Alone with Frost, as the interrogation team is killed by the intruders, Matt has to make a choice. Should he attempt to fend off the large team who are heavily armed, die and have Frost be taken away, or should he take Frost and make a run for it? Matt makes the obvious choice, taking Frost and running. After contacting his superiors Matt obtains his orders to get Frost to another safe house, but Frost doesn’t make it easy for Matt. While in transit with Frost, Matt has to dodge multiple attempts from this extraction team. Frost runs away from Matt a few times, and Matt comes to find out the reason why Frost is in South Africa. Frost is supposedly in possession of damning evidence against the entire intelligence community which he hopes to sell. But Frost protests to Matt, that he isn’t the man that the higher ups in the CIA
claim him to be, and that in fact the CIA bends the truth to their liking. He warns Matt that when you hear a boss say, “We’ll take it from here," Frost states that’s when you know you’re screwed. Of course the film follows the typical CIA formula, in that the form of corruption does go up the food chain, but for a majority of the film the audience isn’t totally sure which of Matt’s bosses is truly the one corrupted. The relationship between Frost and Matt is interesting because there aren’t typical moments where Matt is convinced of anything from either side, like one would worry in these types of films. Usually the hero finds out that the supposed villain isn’t as guilty and tries to help vindicate him. In this film there’s a different spin, where Matt is lead to believe certain things but it's his own thoughts about a situation, along with his judgments, that drive his character. The relationship between Matt and Frost is a learning experience, and we see the humanity in both characters through their various trials quietly under the
performances of Washington and Reynolds. In respects to the action and the pacing of this film, I found them both to be a change from the standard. The pacing was a bit different, with areas of action, but moments of reprieve to develop the plot that complemented the necessary action throughout the film. This film like many other action films this year seem to be going back to the old standard of using action to further story, not to blow something up because they can. The stunts, and fight sequences are fantastic, and can be appreciated from any action fan. There is no CGI in this film, it was all shot on location and the stunts were performed by the actors whenever possible, yes including the BMW chase scene. The film graces the top of the box office this weekend with $24 million and was good watch. I would recommend if you need a good action fix. Leave your questions and comments online at fairfieldmirror.com
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Online
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Coffee Break | 16
Editor Gabriella Tutino» info@fairfieldmirror.com
His iPhone / Her BlackBerry Joe McConville
Let’s talk Sophomore Residential Colleges. The idea for a residence college is not actually half bad on paper. Each one has a different core value that the community within it tries to uphold and teach so that its members can learn and grow. Currently, there are the Social Justice, Ignatian, Leadership, Environmental, and Creative Living. Each one provides retreats, mentor groups, and activities within the dorms. If you were a school the size of UConn and had a ridiculous amount of people with an equally ridiculous amount of housing options, the idea of res colleges might work. We are not UConn however, and being a school of roughly 4000 undergrad students with less than 1000 of those as sophomores leaves a lot to be desired with housing. Right now there are five res colleges on Fairfield’s campus, and only six buildings offered for sophomore housing. Starting to see the problem? What happened was people began applying for these colleges not really based upon the theme but more upon where on campus you wanted to live. People wanted the suites so they picked Environmental or Leadership, people who wanted the new building picked Social Justice, and people who wanted a sick lounge picked Loyola. Understandable considering no one really wants to live in Jogues. I lucked out because I wanted to live in the suites and ideally in the Leadership Res college. Yes, my leadership abilities have continued to grow, but I don’t attribute that to
The Hi-Res College Life
living in this dorm. After a semester of living in the Leadership Residential College, I have learned many things including but not limited to: fireworks and doors do not mix, you MUST ventilate bathrooms when cleaning with bleach, mandatory meetings get nothing accomplished, and trash rooms just don’t exist. I consider these life lessons. Especially the bleach part -it’s just not fun… This year, Fairfield mercifully decided to cut the number of residence colleges in half, dropping the Leadership and Environmental residential colleges altogether. This is probably for the best but leaves many in the communities that are being cut wondering why they should even bother continuing the year. To many, it is just a building to toss fireworks down hallways with a few inconvenient values, but to some it is something they actually wish to aspire to and grow with. Fairfield should definitely look to reassess their ideas for the Residential College community, building up stronger themes, leaders, and mentors. By doing this, they will allow students who actually really want to be in a community to be able to get involved and live the core values of these remaining Residential Colleges. Everyone else who really doesn’t care as long as they live in a nice building can continue to do whatever they want, just please don’t throw any more Dimitri Salads down my hallway.
- Sent from my iPhone
I think Fairfield is just about the only university that has sophomores apply for residential colleges. I live in a residential college and it does have its good points, as well as some negative aspects. First of all, in my freshman year, we did not have much of a choice other than to apply for a residential college. Hey, if you weren’t going to apply to one, you were going to be shoved in a corner of Jogues or Kostka, and believe me, I didn’t want to live in either of those. I mean come on, Jogues, the building pushed in the WAY back of the quad, and Kostka, the dorm with the creepy laundry room. No. Way. So I looked at Claver, and it looked awesome, with the suite style living and all. It’s close to Barone and the library, along with Bannow and the gym. So I put Claver first on my application and placed 70 McCormick second on my list, because it would be nice to have a new building, and still be close to the heart of campus. I think the intention of Fairfield and Residence Life was that students would apply for their sophomore dorms based on the residential college cause that best suited them. But maybe what Fairfield and Residence Life don’t understand is that we’re sophomores. We want to live near our friends. We don’t want a far walk to Barone on a snowy day. We want to share rooms with our friends from freshman year. We’re not focused on the theme of the residential college as much as we
Megan Forbes
were intended to be. I got into my second choice for my residential college, 70 McCormick. It’s a beautiful building, the programs are fun, and the retreats are not as dreadful as everyone makes them out to be. But the problem is that I didn’t go into this dorm with the intention of “serving” for “justice” as I should have been. I went into this dorm because I’m a clean freak, and the building was brand spankin’ new, and who could refuse those bathrooms that are similar to those of a hotel? So maybe this is the reason why Fairfield is taking away some of the possible choices for residential colleges. Because of people like me that only applied to get the building and location they wanted, rather than the calling of the theme of the residential college. The fact that applying to the residential colleges was basically mandatory is not the way that college students should have to choose their housing. The removal of some of the residential colleges is definitely a good thing, since it will make the residents living in these communities more selective, and those who only want to live in the building will not be as plentiful as this year. And as for me, I’m thankful that I won’t need to write anymore essays that will decide the fate of where I’ll be spending a year of my college life. Junior housing lottery, here I come. - Sent from my BlackBerry
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iPhone/BlackBerry columnist! Answer the following question in 350 words: How would you solve the budget deficit? Wittiest and most well-written submissions will win the position. Email your column application as an attachment to info@fairfieldmirror.com
Sports
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Page 17
This Week in Sports The week that was in Fairfield Athletics
Sports Shorts
Women’s Lacrosse– The Stags won their fourth consecutive season opener with a 13-6 victory over Monmouth on Saturday. Chloe Mangan and Addie Reilly each had four goals and added an assist in the contest. The team welcomes Hofstra at 3 p.m. on Wednesday. Women's Basketball- Coach Joe Frager picked up his third 20-win season as the Stags defeated Canisius 63-51 on Sunday. Christelle Akon-Akech added a career-high eight points and a career-high six rebounds. The Stags return home for Senior Night on Friday against Loyola. Baseball- The Stags were predicted to place seventh in the MAAC in the coaches' preseason poll. The team is coming off of one of the best seasons in recent memory, going 22-25 overall and 13-11 in the MAAC. Softball- Two Stags were selected to the AllMAAC preseason team. Kristen Filicia was selected to the team as an infielder and Mikayla Shumate was chosen as an outfielder. The Stags were also predicted to place third in the MAAC in the preseason coaches' poll.
New Sports Blog
What To Watch For
Wednesday- Women's Lacrosse vs. Hofstra, 3 p.m. Thursday- No games. Friday- Men's Basketball at Iona, 9 p.m. Saturday- Men's Lacrosse vs. Bryant, 1 p.m.
Sunday- Mens Basketball at Rider, 3:30 p.m., Women's Basketball at Rider, 1 p.m. Monday- No games. Tuesday- Men's Lacrosse at Hofstra, 7 p.m.
By The Numbers
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Women's basketball clinched second in the MAAC with a 63-51 victory over Canisius on Sunday.
Ivey Speight Contributing Writer
J ohn Tessitore Assistant Sports Editor
Men's Lacrosse Attacker Sam Snow had a career-high five goals to lead the team to a 13-10 victory over Stony Brook.
“My four years with the team has been an honor and a great ride. Being able to meet so many great people, and to learn and grow from so many experiences will be unforgettable." -said senior swimmer Michelle Yoshida after the MAAC Championships as she reflected back on the past four years.
Sports 3x5 Eric Bernsen Sports Editor
Senior Michelle Yoshida of the Women's Swimming team ended her career with 11 individual records.
5
Quote of the Week
Make sure to check out our new Sports Blog with online-only coverage at sports.fairfieldmirror.com, as well as featured Sports videos.
Because they like to talk... Sports.
11
Your 2011-2012 3x5 Columnists: Eric Bernsen, Ivey Speight and John Tessitore.
How'd the 3X5 crew celebrate the long weekend?
Linsanity is through the roof all over the country. Can this legend continue to be so elite?
Pitchers and catchers report to camp this week. Surped out MLB thoughts?
Fairfield vs. Iona this Friday night. Huge game for the Stags, you think they even the season series?
Best part about WVOF doubleheader lacrosse broadcasts?
Surped out watching Grape bouncers get rattled at the small man's creep game. Don't hate the player, hate the game Niiiiiicks.
Who knows if he can keep it up, but I mean the guy crashes on Leandry Field's couch and he's the talk of the world. Dude redefines being on the grind.
Think about all of the shenanigans Manny Ramirez would get himself into as a 40-year-old minor league player. Such a barked legend, welcome back.
Gonna be a challenge to say the least. But if the 3's are falling for the Stags, there's no reason we can't beat Iona whether we're in New Rochelle or Springfield.
Ivey: "This is how people grow here at WVOF." Eric:"How come you haven't grown Ivey, you should be a giant by now HUHU." SSSSSSSSSSSSSS.
After losing my Stag Card, falling on my face on the cement, and getting literally picked up and thrown out of the Grape..let's just say thank God it's over.
The Asian Sensation is like a real version of Rudy. So happy he plays for the KNIIIIICKS. Don't think it will continue but until then #LINNING.
For the first time in my life I don't want the season to start. The Mets are on par with the Bad News Bears. Only our coach doesn't get surped like Billaaay Bob.
I know they do. Have to win by more than 9. DWade returns to the lineup and hits a three at the buzzer in front of Macahdo....Stags win by 12.
Well, Stony Brook was wearing red and I got confused for the first part of the game and thought they were Fairfield. I was wondering why those numbers weren't on the roster.
Bernsenssssss creep swag was AVICII esque Friday night. Went to Pace Saturday nigth and Laxed the night away. Huhu SSSunday, I watched the Dirk Nowitzki get NICKED!
Biggest legend since Santo Provenzano (Google him). Lin will continue pwning countless teams, before falling to Jimmer in the NBA finals. "ONE LIIIIIINING MOMENT"
Wyoming on a tough 3-game losing streak, couldnt handle Colorodo States onslaught at Moby Arena. Hopefully they pull of a miracle in the MWC Tournament in Vegassssssssssss.
Machado has 20 assists, but the Stags win 120110 in 4 OT's. Sanders, Barrrow, Olander, Wade and Needham all have 20 plus. Crawford with 6 threessssssssss.
Definitely hearing IV LEE Speight Jr. announce the starting lineups. Kid's voice is as smooth as vanilla and peanut butter combined to form the perfect small treat.
Sports
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Page 18
"Stags Schemin'"
Yuri Sandzimir/The Mirror
Above: Maurice Barrow and Ryan Olander of the Men's Basketball team continue to fight off MAAC challengers. Bottom Left: Junior Derek Needham led the Stags with 16 points against Marist this past Monday.
Fairfield Making a Run Toward Top of MAAC By Eric Bernsen Sports Editor In a season full of ups and downs, one constant about the Men’s Basketball team has been their defense. This proved to be true again this past Monday night as the Stags traveled to Marist and beat the Red Foxes by a score of 60-49. Fairfield was relentless on the defensive side of the ball as Marist accumulated only 12 points in the first half of play. The Stags held the Red Foxes to 32 percent shooting and stole the ball from the Red Foxes 15 times. All year long, Coach Sydney Johnson has attempted to instill defensive tenacity amongst his players, and it’s certainly paying off at the right time of the year. “Over this stretch of games, we’ve been playing some great defense. We aren’t always flawless on offense, but no matter happens we are defending well and that comes from all of the hard work during practice,” said Johnson. Coach Johnson and his team point to their loss on the road to Manhattan back in January as the season’s turning point. The Stags have posted a 9-3 record since that
loss. “The chemistry with the guys and their commitment has improved greatly. After that Manhattan game, we turned into a different team. Hopefully we can hold onto the form that we have now,” said Johnson. After a setback against the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee last Saturday, three Stags scored in double figures versus Marist, including 16 points from junior guard Derek Needham. With usual starter Desmond Wade still out with a left hamstring injury, there has been a certain level of pressure for Fairfield’s guards to step up. “It’s been guards by committee with Desmond out. We’ve put a lot of pressure on Derek to lead the team, and he’s having an All-Conference type year,” said Johnson. Senior center Ryan Olander is also starting to regain his prior form as he posted impressive numbers against Marist with 12 points (3-5 from three-point range) and three blocks. “Whether it shows up on the stat sheet or not, Ryan’s leadership and presence always helps us to get that win,” said forward Rakim Sanders. Fairfield will need all the production they can get going into
Friday’s highly anticipated game against the Iona Gaels, who are in first place in the MAAC with a 22-6 (13-3 MAAC) record. It will be a tough task for Fairfield who are 7-8 on the road this season, while the Gaels possess a dominating 9-1 home record. Although Fairfield is a strong defensive team, they face off against an Iona squad that is ranked first in the entire country in both points per game (83.1) and assists per game (19.4). The Gael trio of Michael Glover, Lamont Jones, and Scott Machado has been hard for any team to stop, but Fairfield is more than capable of doing so. In order to have a shot at the number 1 seed going into the MAAC Tournament, they will need to defeat the Gaels as well as Rider in another road contest on Sunday. Nevertheless, Fairfield can be ranked as no lower than the fourth seed in the MAAC Tournament, putting themselves in a position to be successful late this season. The Stags have certainly matured and come together over the course of this year, but only time will tell to see if they can accomplish their pre-season goal: a MAAC championship and a trip to the NCAA Tournament.
Sports
The Mirror | Week of February 22, 2012
Stags Make a Splash in MAAC's
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Swimming and Diving Break Records in Tournament
Photo contributed by Athletic Communications Department
Senior Brian Friedlander making waves as he broke a Fairfield program record in his last race as a Stag. Senior Michelle Yoshida and freshman diver Ashlee Steinberger also reached milestones this past weekend.
By Jen Calhoun Contributing Writer Some moments in sports just seem to be written like a story. Senior Brian Friedlander of Fairfield’s Swimming and Diving Team had one of those moments at the MAAC Championships over the weekend. In Friedlander’s last race for the Stags, the 200-yard breaststroke, he broke a program record by .68 seconds, with a time of 2:06.04, and placed 6th overall. “I want to say it was surreal,” said Friedlander. “In four years I’ve really gone without breaking any records.” Now Friedlander graduates with a record to his name, and he
isn’t the only one. Fellow senior Michelle Yoshida leaves the program with 11 individual program records and 10 relay records. Like Friedlander, she set another record in her last individual race, the 200-yard backstroke, with a time of 2:02.90. “As a recruit and a freshman, [Coach Farley] told me that I would be able to make a significant impact on the team and the Swimming & Diving program in general. I never really thought about it at the time, but now looking back I’m very happy I was able to swim as well as I did and keep improving my times every year,” said Yoshida. Yoshida did just that and left the MAAC Championships with two silver
medals, in the 200-yard backstroke and the 50-yard freestyle, and defended gold in the 100-yard backstroke. Yoshida will leave Fairfield with nine individual MAAC titles, three silver medals, and one bronze relay medal. “Individually, the 100-yard back record will stand apart for me because I never really gave backstroke any thought until last year, and I dropped three seconds after focusing on it. It was a very unexpected and rewarding experience,” said Yoshida. While Yoshida and Friedlander had career performances at the MAAC Championships, other Stags also stepped up and had inspired meets.
Freshman Ashlee Steinberger was named the MAAC Women’s Most Outstanding Diver after a remarkable showing at the MAAC Championships. Steinberger won the 3-meter event with a composite score of 250.60 points. With the victory on Thursday, she became the first female diver to win a MAAC event since 1993. She also placed fourth on the 1-meter diving event. Freshman Tyler Conley also had a strong MAAC Tournament as he placed sixth overall in the Men's 100 yard freestyle and set a program record in the same event during preliminaries with a time 46.89 seconds. Even with young talent such as Steinberger and Conley coming through the ranks, seniors like
MAAC Madness Sports Staff
WVOF is going national. On Monday Feb. 27, the WVOF sports team will be putting on a 12-hour MAAC Tournament Preview show that will also be streamed live on the conference website Maacsports. com. The show will also be simulcast on different radio stations in the MAAC such as Marist, Loyola, Rider, Niagara, and Siena. The show, which airs from noon until midnight, will feature head coaches from around the league (Men's and Women's Basketball teams) as well as a player from each squad. Throughout each team's hourly segment, there will also be alumni represnting each university ranging from players who graduated in 2007, to the captains of squad in the 60s. The landmark show begins with a live press conference where the MAAC will announce their allleague teams. The show features such notable MAAC names such as Rich Ensor, the MAAC Commisioner
Friedlander and Yoshida will most certainly be missed. “My four years with the team has been an honor and a great ride,” said Yoshida. “Being able to meet so many great people, and to learn and grow from so many experiences will be unforgettable.” Friedlander echoed Yoshida’s sentiments saying, “It’s probably the best experience I’ve ever had. Just the way the team’s bonded over the four years, it really just made it an awesome experience.” Friedlander also notes one thing that has led to all his achievements, as well as the success of the team as a whole. “It was all a lot of hard work… and I think it’s paid off.”
12 Hour Show Schedule: 12:00- The MAAC Hour 1:00- Canisius College 2:00- Niagara University 3:00- St.Peters College 4:00- Manhattan College 5:00- Siena College 6:00- Fairfield Women 7:00- Fairfield Men 8:00- Iona College 9:00- Loyola University 10:00- Marist College 11:00- Rider University and Assoicated Press writer Jim O'Connell, who was inducted into the USBWA Hall-of-Fame. Fairfield will be the only school to have two hours dedicated to their basketball teams, with the women scheduled to air at 6 p.m. and the men follwing at 7 p.m. Players who will be a part of the Stags segment include Rakim Sanders, Derek Needham, Taryn Johnson, and many more.
During the Stags' timeslot, WVOF will also be hosting a basketball themed event in the Lower Level of the Barone Campus Center, where attendees can shoot hoops and try to win unique prizes. So on Monday, Feb. 27 from noon until midnight, log on to Maacsports.com and listen to the show and you might hear voices that are very familiar.
Sports | 20 Stags Top Stony Brook in Lax Season Opener Online
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Week of February 22, 2012
fairfieldmirror.com
Sports Editor: Eric Bernsen » sports@fairfieldmirror.com
Snow Scores Career High of 5 Goals in Fairfield's Victory
Tom McKiver/The Mirror
Junior attack Sam Snow eyes the net during men's lacrosse 13-10 win over Stony Brook this past Saturday. Snow scored a career high of five goals in the important opening day victory against the Seawolves.
By Thomas Shea Contributing Writer Junior Sam Snow scored a career high of five goals as the Stags staged a second half comeback to defeat Stony Brook 13-10 on a cold and blustery Saturday afternoon at Alumni Field. Fairfield trailed early in the game, going down 4-2 with under four minutes left to play in the first quarter. But two goals within 44 seconds of each other by Snow tied the game at four going into the second quarter. The Stags were outscored 2-1 in the second quarter, with a goal by John Snellman sandwiched between 2 goals by the Seawolves, putting Stony Brook ahead 6-5 going into halftime. The second half was a different story for Fairfield as they outscored Stony Brook 8-4, including a 5-1 advantage in the third quarter alone. Head coach Andy Copelan was very pleased with his team’s efforts in the
second half, particularly with the face-offs. “Anytime you’re down at halftime and come back to get a win, you’ve got to give [the team] a whole lot of credit for just being resilient and persevering through some tough times,” said Copelan. “And I thought that’s what we did today.” “We wanted to control the face-off. Looking at the stats, we were 7 for 7 [in face-offs] in the third quarter, and that was the difference right there.” Fairfield was aided by two Stony Brook penalties early on in the third quarter, giving the Stags a 2-man advantage. This allowed the Stags to gain an 8-6 lead, and Fairfield would not trail again for the rest of the contest. Freshmen Drew Federico and Tristan Sperry each scored their first career goals in addition to a goal by Snellman and two more by Snow, pushing the Fairfield lead to 10-7. After Stony Brook cut the
lead to two, Brent Adams, who was drafted in the MLL Draft this past January, and Snow each scored to give Fairfield their biggest lead of the game at 12-8. The Seawolves rallied late to bring the lead back to just two with just over three minutes remaining, but Adams’ third goal of the day sealed the victory for the Stags. Coach Copelan was happy with his team’s performance on Saturday. “Proud of the effort, proud to be 1-0,” said Copelan. “A lot of good things, but certainly some bad things that need to be tightened up as we get into the heart of our season.” As for the turnaround at halftime, Copelan credited his team with just “playing smarter.” “It’s easier when you have the ball a lot, and obviously that starts with how we handle the face-off. We started seeing the ball a little more regularly so when the guys get in the flow offensively, they start thinking a
little clearer.” When asked about Snow’s performance in the game, Copelan wasn’t shocked with what happened. “We saw it all preseason… it wasn’t a surprise to me. I’m proud of the fact that we spread the scoring out. Anytime you’re able to get 13 goals, that really increases your chances [of winning].” Snow said that “it feels great” to have set a career high with five goals, but added, “I think starting 1-0 is the most important thing.” Nevertheless, Snow was awarded the NEILA Player of the Week award for his strong-willed effort against the Seawolves. He went on to credit the senior leadership as being a key to the game, saying, “I think the seniors really played well. Senior captain Ben McTague had a great halftime speech, and really got us pumped up, and I think that…he really is the heart of this team,” said Snow.
Senior John Snellman, who added three goals of his own, credited much of the team’s success to fellow senior goalkeeper Charlie Cipriano. “It came down to a team effort. When you have one of the best goalies in the country, I tell him every single game, it’s kind of tough not to rally around him. Every time he makes a save, the whole team, the whole sideline, gets fired up,” said Snellman. Cipriano, the defending ECAC Keeper of the Year who was also recently drafted in the MLL, had nine saves in the game, seven of which came in the second half. Fairfield won 19 of the 26 face-off attempts and had a 30-27 advantage in groundballs, which are two areas the Stags looked to improve upon coming into the season. The Stags play host to Bryant University this Saturday at 1 p.m. at Alumni Field.