Sacred Heart Spectrum 4-7

Inside

Rising ATM fees bring rising tempers

Students unhappy with fees skyrocketing to almost five dollars Special Feature: Spotlight on Student Government

SG makes has big plans in store for end of semester festivities Men’s tennis team seeks Northeast Conference titile Pioneers inching toward qualifying for NEC Tournament

Index

News 1 Perspectives 5 Editorials 7 A&E 8 Features 10 Sports 12

6 10 15

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Thursday, April 7, 2011

Sacred Heart University - Fairfield, Conn. Volume 27, Issue 21

All dogs go to NCAA Heaven Huskies defeat Bulldogs to take title Erin Murtagh Assistant News Editor

The Spectrum/ Zack Lane

Finishing with 16 points, junior guard Kemba Walker lead the Huskies to a 53-41 championship victory over Butler University last Monday night.

Finishing with a record of 32-9, the win marked the third NCAA title for the University of Connecticut, and the team’s 15th consecutive “tournament” win this year. This also comes in the wake of their overall victory at the Maui Invitational earlier this year, and the Big East tournament in March.

“It may be the happiest moment of my life,” said UConn head coach Jim Calhoun, in an article on the team’s official website.

Calhoun, at the age of 68, made history as the oldest coach in NCAA history to win the national championship. He also joins the ranks of John Wooden, Adolph Rupp, Mike Krzyzewski and Bobby Knight as one of only five coaches to win three national titles.

In the first half, UConn outshot and outrebounded the Bulldogs, who proved to be ice cold from the field all night. Shooting just over 22 percent, none of Butler’s points came from inside the paint.

See UCONN on page 14 ...

Trevor Kelly, Paul Cappadona, and Lindsay McGrath star in Sacred Heart’s rendition of “Little Shop of Horrors.”

‘Little Shop’ hits Edgerton stage

Megan Pulone Staff Reporter

Do you get easily scared in front of a huge audience? Leave the stage fright behind and let the performers of the Theater Arts Program (TAP) show you what it’s like to be in the spot light during the annual spring musical “Little Shop of Horrors.”

“It’s a movie and a classic Broadway musical,” said executive director, Jerry Goehring. “It gives

students a different challenge in musical theater and allows them to sing in bigger-than-life character roles.”

TAP will hold four performances of the musical in the Edgerton Center for the Performing Arts starting tonight, Thursday, April 7 at 8 p.m. and will go all weekend ending on Sunday, April 9.

“I think it will go well,” said Linsay Tomaszewski, a junior Ensemble performer. “We are all building the set and working together to make it a great show.”

See TAP on page 8 ...

AP Photo

The Huskies celebrate their NCAA tournament championship victory.

SHU junior to run for mayor of Long Island hometown Andrew Aleman Contributing Writer

Michael Leboff, the advisor to the VP of the Senate and a junior of Sacred Heart, decided to enter the race for the mayor of Rockville Centre, for the June 21 mayor election. Rockville Center is a village of over 24,000 and is located in Nassau County of New York on Long Island.

Dr. Gary Rose, chairman of the department of Government and Politics, heard the news about Leboff entering the mayoral race and said, “It is fabulous to see a 20 year old run for mayor. To see this level of political involvement is a reflection of the Obama Era. The Obama presidential election was the election that brought the

youth to the arena of politics.”

The election of 2008 was classified by Time Magazine as the “Year of the Youth Vote.” Over 21 million college age Americans voted in the election, a difference of at least 2.2 million from the previous presidential election, according to the New York Times.

“The reason I decided to run for mayor was simple. I feel that politicians make terrible politicians. So I decided that I could shake things up a bit, and make a positive impact on the village as Mayor,” said Leboff.

Leboff has no political experience, only taking an Intro to International Relations class at Sacred Heart; however he has asked that the voters of his town should not judge him on his age nor his lack of experience but on his

views.

“I think it is good that young people of our generation can voice their opinion from more of an official position.

I think our generation has a voice that needs to be heard,” junior Samuel Pruitt said.

The “Leboff for mayor” campaign has several departments made up of college students from New York to Fairfield. The campaign staff currently is made up of college students with a heavy focus on using social media, like in the Obama campaign, to get the message out. Leboff currently has a staff which consists of his campaign manager Andrew Schustek, a Social Media department, led by Stephen Fiorentine, with departments for finances, a street team and an advertising department.

See LEBOFF on page 2...

News website links students with Employers Kim Rooney Staff Reporter

as Facebook’s chat feature,” said Schmid.

“Soon this feature will include video conferencing for an even more personal inter In December of 2010, juniors Chet view experience.”

Schmid believes that the quick comSchmid and John Fitzgerald of Fairfield munication that PennylessStudents proUniversity launched a web-based social vides, maintains a competitive advantage networking site that connects students with over Craigslist.com, Monster.com, and Catheir lvarious employment opportunities in reerbuilder.com.

And some students agree the community surrounding their campusthat direct interaction is important. es.

“I have used Craigslist in the past and PennylessStudents.com allows for the work that they provide does not reach both employers and student employees to out to full-time students who are looking create user profiles so that they can ∂seek for quick cash or a small part-time job durfor preferred employment opportunities. ing the school year,” said junior Michael “The idea came to me after hearing constant complaints from students who Giaccio. “When using Craigslist, I feel like were willing to do anything to earn mon- I am completely over looked by millions ey, as well as complaints from locals who of other users because there is no opportunity to personwere seeking babyally communicate sitters, landscapers, and snow shovelers “I hope that students will use this with the employto name a few,” said site as a way to gain work experience ers when applying.”

Schmid. as well as to build their resumes when The website An important applying to colleges, internships, and was also designed feature of the site is to differ from its privacy policy, future careers.”

- Chet Shmid on-campus cawhich ensures a safe environment for evCo-founder of PennylessStudents reer development centers. Students ery party involved. website, junior at Fairfield U can contact em “Our website ployers directly is monitored by the rather than going PennylessStudents through a third party, allowing greater exteam who screens all content posted by usposure for a wider variety of jobs. ers,” said Schmid. “This is to ensure that “Aside from students, employers will the site is not being misused by those solic- also benefit from the site from easier job iting illegal or inappropriate employment selection,” said Schmid. “They will be services.” able to screen applicant students quickly in

Also on staff are Fairfield juniors a user-friendly way and will be provided James Deignan and Brennan Swan, who with information that is needed to pick the handle both marketing and business manbest candidate for the job.” agement.

PennylessStudents not only provides According to Schmid, student applijob opportunities for college students, but cants are not subject to background checks. high school students as well, and is free for A ranking system was put in place to disall those who wish to create an account. play employer feedback.

“I hope that students will use this site Means of communication are pro- as a way to gain work experience as well vided on the website to facilitate direct as to build their resumes when applying to interaction with applicants and employers. colleges, internships, and future careers,” One in particular is an instant chat feature, said Schmid. which allows for online-style interviews.

“The chat function is the same manner

2

SHU sciences represented at annual showcase ECSC returns to campus Mike Peterson Staff Reporter

Sacred Heart University hosted the 65th Annual Eastern Colleges Science Conference on April 2, for the first time since 1999. The conference allowed students from colleges around the Northeast to present empirical research in the sciences and engineering.

Associate professors of biology, Dr. Suzanne Deschenes, and Dr. Mark Beekey, worked together to coordinate last Saturday’s event.

“The overall goal was to provide undergraduate students in the natural and social sciences a forum in which to present their research,” she said.

The ECSC affords opportunity for research in a wide variety of fields. According to Deschenes, the conference incorporated student work in the fields of biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, psychology, sociology, and economics.

Some students found it to be a constructive effort, and were happy the university hosted the conference.

“I think it’s great that Sacred Heart gets to do it,” said Junior Erin McCallum. “Science is so important, and this event will be a great chance for kids to work together and learn new things.”

Sophomore Tom Rosello, a athletic training major, believes that the event gave science more of a presence on campus.

“I think that the science departments here sometimes get overlooked by other departments,” he said. “This conference showed people how great they are.”

Keynote speaker was Ira Flatow, an award-winning science reporter and public speaker. Flatow is the host of National Public Radio’s “Science Friday,” and had previously worked as the host and writer for PBS’ “Newton’s Apple,” an Emmy Award-winning children’s program. He has received numerous awards for his work, including the 2005 National Science Board Public Service Award.

“Dr. Beekey and I wanted to bring in a dynamic, knowledgeable speaker in all fields of science who could engage attendees’ interest,” said Deschenes.

“We are very lucky to have him speak here at SHU.”

According to the ECSC’s website, there are 27 universities actively involved in the conference. Although most of these schools are in the Northeast, some are located as far away as Ohio and Maryland.

Deschenes believes the conference to be a success, most specifically for its work in generating students’ interest in the field.

“Those of us in the science departments strongly encourage students to join our labs and claim ownership of some element of our research projects,” she said.

“In the process, students learn the fundamentals of science, valuable laboratory and field skills, and how to communicate the fruits of their labor at local research conferences.”

That belief is something that Rosello agrees with.

“I love being a physical therapy major because the labs really allow us to examine the human body,” he said. “There aren’t many other subject areas that allow you to come into such close contact with your work.”

Leboff wishes to have ‘positive impact’ on RVC ...CONTINUED from page 1

“I think it’s good for Michael to be putting himself out there and representing the younger generation’s voices,” said sophomore Elizabeth Stewart. “He can definitely have an input on Rockville Centre unlike any other mayor they have had before regardless of his age.”

Junior Kate Kmiotek said she agreed with his decision to run for the elected office.

“More power to him, and it’s very brave. If he is willing to fight for what he believes in, good for him,” said Kmiotek.

Leboff’s campaign to run for mayor is unusual but not still a rare occasion. In 2008, John Hammons ran for the mayor of Muskogee, Oklahoma at the age of 19 while still a freshman at the University of Oklahoma.

According to ABC News, the youngest mayor was Michael Sessions, of Hillsdale

Michigan, who was just turned 18 before being elected as mayor in 2007 while still in High School. In the past couple of years around the Obama Election, there has been an increase of teenagers and early 20s running for political office, usually in small towns.

“This movement will get young people to enter the political arena and hopefully will be a beginning of a trend and show them that the political system is not closed,” said Rose.

While the phenomena of young mayors being elected is focused on small towns, the effect has had a rip effect in political powers, with some of the mayors gaining regional recognition.

“I feel that Leboff should probably have more experience, but if he wants to do it he Photo courtesy of Mike Leboff should, because you do not know what will Junior Mike Leboff is vying to become Rockville Centre’s town mayor. happen,” said sophomore Dave Masulli.

April 7, 2011

News 3

Concerns arise over parking lot security Lauren Kalil Staff Reporter

The Sprectrum/ Alyssa Scott

Popular student band, Nonsense, performs at the benefit.

Band-Aid Japan raises money for relief efforts

Kelley Bligh Perspectives Editor

When junior Jesus Martinez first heard about the tragic earthquake in Japan, his first instinct was to pack up and go over to Japan to lend a helping hand. As the earthquake was so sudden and devastating, it would take some time for outside volunteers to be able to join the reconstruction process.

This did not discourage Martinez though. He was determined to help in any way possible.

“I want to take initiative and do something myself,” said Martinez. “The next best thing was to raise as much money as possible to send over and I knew I could do that at SHU with the help of my brothers, Kappa Sigma.”

With the help of his Kappa Sigma brothers, Martinez organized Band Aid Japan, a benefit for Japan relief, held on March 29, which featured student bands Eyes to See and Nonsense as the entertainment.

The benefit started with food donated from various local restaurants, and origami and bracelet-making provided by the anime club.

While everyone danced and enjoyed both bands’ performances, they did not forget why they came. Between 100 and 150 students were there enabling Band Aid Japan to raise $800 for Japanese relief.

“As I was walking to the parking lot after my last Friday class, I found my car with a hole surrounded by green paint above my bumper,” said freshman Jennifer Dellemonico.

About two months ago, Dellemonico’s white Honda Accord was hit by what public safety suspected to be a green truck in the university’s South parking lot.

“I only had my car up here for a weekend.

It was hit in less than 24 hours of my car being here, and there are no security cameras to find out who did it,” said Dellemonico.

According to Jack Fernandez, director of public safety, security cameras are located in many different parking lots on campus.

“We added several new cameras this past year in Curtis Hall, Angelo Roncalli, Scholars Commons, Christian Witness Commons, and at the Cambridge Campus. We try to concentrate on the areas that student pedestrians use most frequently,” said Fernandez.

Although many new security cameras have been installed around campus, South parking lot does not have any.

“All they need to do is put up a few more cameras in the other parking lots, such as South, and I could have caught the person that hit my car,” said Dellemonico.

However, according to Fernandez, the security cameras are put in areas that look out for the people rather than their vehicles.

“My thought here is that we protect people first and property second. The locations that the cameras are in are areas where most students are walking,” said Fernandez.

Similar to Dellemonico, other students have faced issues with their cars being hit or side swiped. These students have not been able to catch the person who hit them because it was not caught on film due to the lack of cameras.

“I unfortunately had my car horribly side swiped in North lot. I was actually very lucky and had a witness who saw what happened and

left a note on my car. I then took it to public safety where I was only able to file a police report because of the witness, not from our cameras,” said junior Caroline Campo.

According to Dellemonico, she also went to public safety to file a police report about the damage that had been done to her car.

“My car was hit at approximately 2 a.m.

I filed a police report and had to meet with the public safety officer that was on duty during the time my car was hit. His only hours are from midnight to 8 a.m., so I had to go during that shift,” said Dellemonico. “Then, I went to a car repair shop to get damage estimates, and they told me it was going to cost $700 to fix.

That’s when I realized this is a big issue at our school.”

Similar to Dellemonico and Campo, sophomore Kelli Hurley has also had some trouble with her car in the campus parking lots.

“One morning before class, I came outside to my car and had scratch marks all on the left side. Now, I park way far out in the parking lot where no other cars are so that this does not happen again. It is a much farther walk and I feel very unsafe walking to my car when it’s dark outside. It literally takes 10 minutes to walk to and from my car,” said Hurley.

Although there are not security cameras in every parking lot at Sacred Heart, public safety has tried to make students feel as safe as possible on this campus.

“We’re in the lots patrolling them a lot.

We don’t have a large campus so officers are assigned sectors to the North, South, and front parking lots,” said Fernandez.

According to Dellemonico, she does not feel like she is unsafe because she does see public safety around campus. However, she does think that the only solution is to build a parking garage to give students more space to park, or add more cameras in the lots.

“My best advice on the issue is to those who hit the car. They need to take responsibility when they hit a car and leave. It’s a crime to hit a car and not report it,” said Fernandez.

News

4

Program teaches girls to stay ‘STRONG’ Kim Rooney Staff Reporter

While many students at Sacred Heart University are preparing for a career as a nurse, an English teacher, or a news anchor, it might be forgotten that it took a lot of mind changing to get students into the shoes that they are in today. Project STRONG (Striving To Recognize One’s Natural Gifts) is a volunteer program that helps fifth grade girls realize their talents and to someday make potential goals in their own lives.

“The goal of the program is to strengthen the girls’ self esteem,” said present and coordinator Lindsay Pucino.

“We believe that teaching girls to be strong women means teaching them how to communicate, set goals, appreciate others’ unique qualities, and explore and experience new opportunities.”

According to the Sacred Heart Website, the members of Project STRONG believe that teaching young girls to be strong women is essential.

Twelve fifth grade girls are currently in the program that all attend Johnson Elementary School in Bridgeport.

The group meets every Friday from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

“We meet every week at Johnson Elementary School but we also do field trips to places like Sacred Heart, corn mazes, and rope courses,” said Pucino.

Students Amanda Johnson, Laura Murphy, and Lauren Corso were creators of the program, which started in 2005.

The students involved in Project STRONG act as mentors to the young girls. Some of these mentors include junior Brianna Melilli, Christine Loscri, sophomore Regina Giarraputo, and freshman Seanne Denny.

“I began my freshman year,” said Pucino. “We try to have one representative from each year so that they can continue growing within the program.”

According to Pucino, special activities are done with the fifth grade girls every Friday. Special guests have also come to speak with the girls about future careers.

“A nursing student came and spoke with the girls about being healthy and how to become a nurse,” said Pucino. “Members from SHU F.O.R.C.E. and the cheerleading team came and taught the girls routines and gave [them] the opportunity to make up their own routines.”

According to Pucino, another memorable activity was when the fifth grade girls from Johnson elementary school were brought to Sacred Heart to practice with the women’s basketball team. The girls ran drills with the team, saw their locker room, and learned about how the Sacred Heart women have made it to where they are today.

Photo courtesy of Lindsay Pucino

Senior Lindsay Pucino, student coordinator for Sacred Heart’s Project STRONG, works with a program participant at Johnson Elementary School in Bridgeport.

Each year twelve new fifth grade girls enter the program as the old twelve move on to the sixth grade. The girls from previous years are always welcome to come stop by on Fridays and say hello.

“Before winter break we always have a party for all the girls that have ever been a part of Project STRONG,” said Pucino. “It is a great opportunity for the current STRONG girls to meet girls from the grades above them and develop role models.”

The members of Project STRONG are volunteers that want to make a difference. Additionally, all special guests

are volunteers as well. Some students will help while others have heard about the program and have a special talent that they wish to share.

“My favorite part of this program is watching the girls change and grow throughout the year and knowing that I am a part of that process,” said Pucino. “I see the girls come into the program that are overly shy or aggressive to their classmates but throughout the year the girls change.

The shy girls begin to open up to their new friends and the aggressive girls learn how to better manage their emotions.”

Proposed legislature to bring tolls back to CT Mike Peterson Staff Reporter

A bill that would permit tolls to return to some Connecticut highways has passed through committee hearings, clearing a major legislative hurdle.

According to the Hartford Courant, the General Assembly’s Transportation Committee approved a bill that would allow tolls on new state highways or highway extensions. The bill has moved to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

Legislators from southeastern Connecticut have promoted the bill as a way of paying for the completion of Route 11, a highway project that has been delayed for years.

Democratic Representative Ed Jutila of East Lyme emphasized that the bill would not be mandatory.

“If you’re concerned about your constituents who are currently commuting along our highways, nothing will change with this bill,” he said. “This does not mean tolls are automatically going to go up anywhere.”

But some Republican lawmakers fear that the bill could lead to tolls elsewhere in the state.

“I think what we’re doing is establishing some level of precedent,” said Representative David Scribner of Brookfield, the ranking House Republican on the Trans-

portation Committee.

Freshman Gaela Blanc, a Connecticut resident, supports the legislation.

“I think the tolls are a good idea,” she said. “The money people will have to pay isn’t that much. People are going to use the highway even if the tolls are put in place.”

Senior Kasi Orlowski, also a Connecticut resident,

“If you’re concerned about your constituents who are currently commuting along our highways, nothing will change with this bill. This does not mean tolls are automatically going to go up anywhere.”

- Rep. Ed Jutila, D- East Lyme believes there are other ways to pay for highway projects.

“There are other things that should be taxed before tolls are put in,” said Orlowski. “Some people are going to end up paying a lot if they’re traveling every day.”

The General Assembly closed tollbooths across the state after a series of fatal crashes in the late 1980s. But funding for projects such as Route 11 is now a significant concern.

According to the state’s Office of Policy and Management, the projected deficit for the 2010 fiscal year was

$504 million.

Senior Olivier St. Onge, a Quebec native, is not accustomed to the idea of tolls.

“Where I’m from there are no tolls, so I’m not sure how I feel about it,” he said. “But it seems like a good idea; it might even reduce traffic on the highways.”

Junior Doug Cramer, who lives out-of-state, is not particularly concerned about the possibility of new tolls.

“It doesn’t sound like there are going to be new tolls on Interstate 95 or highways like that,” he said. “And even if there were, it wouldn’t affect me that much. I only go home to New Jersey every couple of months.”

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy, Connecticut’s new governor, has said he might favor using tolls to help raise money for the completion of Route 11.

For Blanc, using tolls makes more sense than a system of public bonds.

“Even if the state tries to raise money through bonds, they won’t make enough,” she said. “With the economy the way it is, people don’t have enough money to invest in things like that.”

St. Onge feels that travelers who take advantage of highways should fund them through tolls.

“The people are the ones who use the roads, so they should pay for them,” he said. “That’s the policy that makes the most sense to me.”

Clarification from 3/31 issue: The photo associated with last week’s STD Testing article was a mock-up, and was not meant to depict actual results.

Perspectives

Sharing cars to save cash Students carpool to campus to fight high gas prices

Tyler McKeon Staff Reporter

With yet another raise in gas prices, students at Sacred Heart University are finding themselves having to make adjustments in their daily lives in effort to cope with the high costs of gas.

“The raise in gas prices is having a pretty big impact on me,” said senior Paul Perrelli. “Especially because I drive a V8. I also commute which makes it even worse.”

The peak in gas prices has resulted in some changes in students’ behaviors and efforts to conserve gas and money.

“I kind of just be careful where I go,” said Perrelli. “I try not to make unnecessary trips if I don’t have to, and once I’m at school I try not leave unless I have to.”

Students like Perrelli that commute from home don’t have much of a choice but to drive themselves. However, other students that live in dorms, apartments and houses nearby have the option of carpooling with roommates.

“My roommates and I never really use to carpool until this semester,” said senior Tiffany Cifone. “We all have different schedules so we would just drive ourselves but now we kind of try harder to ride with each other to school whenever

we can because gas is so high.”

Cifone’s roommate, senior Sabrina DeRiso, said driving less is the only way to save money on evermore-expensive gas.

“There’s not much you really can do except try to drive less,” said DeRiso. “So since Tiffany and I have class the same three days together we alternate driving every other day. There’s not much else you can really do except to use less gas.”

But commuting to and from campus is only part of the problem. Students are also looking for ways to save money with alternate forms of transportation when they go out at night as well.

“We use to take our cars out to the bars when we would go out,” said DeRiso. “But lately we’ve been trying to take cabs wherever we go.

We figure it’s still cheaper than the gas we burn getting there.”

While students living in the dorms without vehicles might not understand the consequences of rising gas prices, students living off-campus understand all too well.

“My boyfriend lives in Stamford,” said DeRiso. “So the commute from Bridgeport to Stamford is really tough for the both of us but over the past few months we’ve figured out ways to adjust to it.”

The Spectrum/Bill Haug

Students are abandoning their cars and tagging along with friends as gas prices begin to rise above $4 per gallon.

5

Students push aside work as weather warms up Tyler McKeon Staff Reporter As one of the most brutal winters in recent memory comes to a close, students at Sacred Heart University anxiously await the arrival of warm weather and sunshine.

While some have figured out ways to fight off spring fever until the end of the semester, others are managing their newfound independence and the effects spring weather have on their school work for the first time as college students.

“The warmer weather lightens everyone’s mood,” said freshman Brittany Battis. “It just makes everyone happier and makes them feel like not going to class and hanging out outside all day.”

The temptation to skip class and hang out with friends only intensifies as the temperature outside rises throughout the semester, making it all the more difficult to end the semester strongly.

“I think everyone is over with winter,” said freshman Jen Dellmonico. “I think people are sick of school and the bad weather out and they can’t wait for summer to get here. This past winter was really bad so I think everyone is looking forward to warmer weather even more than usual.”

Not only does the changing weather seem to have an effect on students making it to class, it also seems to affect their concentration in general.

“I’ll be sitting in class, bored listening to my professor,” said freshman Cassandra Apruzzese.

“Then I’ll look out the window and get distracted by all the people hanging out in the beautiful weather and it makes it impossible

to concentrate.”

The independence that freshman discover at college can make coping with the change all the more difficult.

But some new students seem to have found a different way to deal with the nice weather.

“The weather can be motivation or a distraction,” said Battis. “It kind of makes you realize summer is around the corner and it makes you want to get all your work done so you can enjoy it. I try to make sure my homework is done before I go into social mode for the day but that doesn’t always work out.”

Upperclassmen, however, seem to have figured out how to manage spring fever. Senior Paul Graziadei gave his theory on how to deal with the temptations the springtime brings to campus.

“Once the weather gets warmer everyone just feels this urge to good outside and enjoy it, regardless if they have other responsibilities.” said Graziadei. “The key is all in your time management. If you stay on top of your work and don’t wait until the last minute to do stuff, you won’t be as lazy and your work will come out better.”

Time management is only part of the equation when it comes to dealing with second semester slide, the other according to Graziadei lies with the work you have done earlier in the semester.

“If you can start the semester off strong in January, then you can afford to relax a little bit in April,” said Graziadei. “If I go into April with an A in a class, I can afford to be a little lazier than someone going in with a C. Getting good grades early in the semester can really help you enjoy the end of it.”

Shedding light on ‘bright’ boys and girls Hannah Ackerman Staff Reporter

Do you consider yourself a “bright” guy or girl? If so, don’t forget about the hard work that might not come so naturally.

According to The Huffington Post, girls view intelligence as something you either have or do not have. Bright girls are quick to give up if they do not know the answers. However, boys view intelligence as something that can be learned. They stick with because they believe they will eventually get the answer.

Psychologist and author Carol Deck spent time studying “bright” fifth grade boys and girls.

“She found that bright girls, when given something to learn that was particularly foreign or complex, were quick to give up; the higher the girls’ IQ, the more likely they were to throw in the towel. In fact, the straight-A girls showed the most helpless

responses,” said Dr. Heidi Grant Halvorson, quoted by the Huffington Post.“Bright boys, on the other hand, saw the difficult material as a challenge, and found it energizing. They were more likely to redouble their efforts rather than give up.”

Senior Amanda Favretto is a believer that gender isn’t always the key factor when it comes to brains.

“I think that a lot of time women and men handle not knowing something in the same way,” said Favretto. “Both are determined to find the answer. I think that it depends on how motivated the individual is not necessarily on their sex.”

Do you see this kind of divide inside the classroom and in a working environment?

“In general I think that men tend to get more frustrated if they do not know something and will pursue it until they do know it,” said junior Kelly Moulton. “Whereas girls can let it go for a little bit and then come back and pursue it again. Come on,

have you ever seen how pissed a guy gets in a class when he answers a question and is wrong?”

The Huffington Post also discusses an important factor is the differences in how boys and girls are raised. Since childhood, they believe that girls have been nurtured and positively reinforced. Boys on the other had, are not handled so carefully.

Alumnae Catherine Savvides describes her beliefs in a very similar way.

“The real issue isn’t intelligence, it’s persistence,” said Savvides. “Men are often more persistent than women because of the way society has nurtured them to be.

“Typically, girls are nurtured differently than boys since the day they’re born,” she said. “If a young girl is struggling with something, others are always eager to help.

‘Honey, do you need help with that?’ ‘Let me carry that for you.’ It makes sense that when faced with something foreign, young girls are more likely to give up faster when they’ve been raised that way.”

When Sacred Heart students were asked if they believed if most skills were innate or something you have to work for, the response was unanimous. It was not one over the other, but both.

“There has been much research on this question, and it often comes out to be half and half,” said Moulton. “Yes, genetics do have an impact on learning ability and education status. However, if you work at something that you love and practice, practice, practice, anything is possible.”

The Huffington Post shares the same belief as Moulton. Dr. Halvorson believes that you’re skills are dependant on your hard work.

“When it comes to mastering any skill, your experience, effort and persistence matter a lot,” she said. “So if you were a Bright Girl, it’s time to toss out your (mistaken) belief about how ability works, embrace the fact that you can always improve and reclaim the confidence to tackle any challenge that you lost so long ago.”

April 7, 2011

Perspectives 6

He Said/She Said Can girls make the first move?

Esteban Rosales He said

The Spectrum/Bill Haug

As ATM fees escalate, students think twice before withdrawing from an alternate bank.

Rising ATM fees break the bank

Amanda Rivera Staff Reporter

While sitting in his dorm room, freshman Chris Rivera was faced with a whole pile of papers. Among these was a smaller pile of papers about the size of his hand.

He was especially concerned about not losing this pile and made sure that it remained intact and organized. The smaller stack of papers was his ATM receipts.

For Rivera, keeping his receipts is a necessity.

“Now I hold onto my money and I keep a balance,” said Rivera. “I hold all my receipts of what does go into the bank and what comes out. I work hard for my money like anybody else does. So I just don’t want to see it wasted for no good reason.”

Students like Rivera are starting to take some precautionary action with their money especially with the possibility of ATM fees rising to $5.

In a recent article by CBS News, “Many banks are increasing fees and penalties to make more money in response to new federal regulation,” said CBS News Business and Economics Correspondent Rebecca Jarvis.

With banks attempting to regulate their money, students following suit so that they don’t fall behind.

“I’d think twice before putting my money in the bank,” said freshman John DiBari. “I would make sure that a lot of my money I would keep with me so that I don’t have to use the ATM as much.”

Another way to avoid the rising costs of ATM fees is to stick to your own bank.

“They won’t affect me because I’m going to be withdrawing only from Bank of America ATMs and this only affects people who withdraw from other banks’ ATMs,” said freshman John NevinsHerbert. “As long as you are only taking money out of your own bank’s ATM you

are good.”

Depending on your personal bank sometimes this is not an option, as an ATM from your bank is not always in close vicinity.

“I have a small bank in New Hampshire, which means if I want to take money out now I’m going to be charged extra - not fair,” said senior Sammie Latulippe. “Now I have to switch banks.”

For some “super heroes” like sophomore Chris Mastrocola added fees are a deterrent from using ATMs that could hurt the economy.

“I’m running around and saving the world and I run out of money while doing so. If I have Bank of America and I need to go to a Chase ATM they should give me some slack,” said Mastrocola.

“I’m helping the economy by getting money and spending it, so charging me whenever I want to use my money doesn’t make me want to spend it.”

While banks are getting the brunt of the blame there are other factors to the rising ATM fees.

“Some people are trying to capitalize on the recession because it makes them feel safe,” said Rivera. “Not all ATM’s are run by the bank, many are run by individuals and separate entities.

With individuals and separate entities running some of the ATM’s the disparity between them and the banks can be seen in the fees.

“I feel like the banks are capitalizing to an extent, but not as much as the individuals and separate entities are, the banks are being modest,” said Rivera.

“For example at the Bank of America which I go to, there is a $2 withdrawal fee. I went to one ATM and the withdrawal fee was $8 from an uncommon name.”

For junior Jacqui Delgado, the purpose of a bank is simple.

“[My bank should] keep my money safe and accessible to me only,” said Delgado. “In that definition, there is no reason for them to have any more of my money than they already do.”

The traditional view of dating says that the man has to be the one to ask the girl out, and make the first move. Honestly, I always thought that way. The question of whether or not it is okay for a girl to ask a guy out challenged my beliefs on the subject.

I was thinking long and hard for a reason why it would not be okay, and I found that such a reason does not exist.

However, there are reasons why it would be more ideal for a guy to ask the girl out, but I found there is no good reason why it would be out of the question for the girl to make the first move if the circumstances are right.

I believe it is extremely helpful when a girl is upfront, and communicates her interests clearly. I would much more prefer a girl who is upfront rather than a girl who plays mind games and drops subtle hints.

This is a problem because as much as I hate to admit it, guys are terrible at reading girls.

There have been several girls who are friends of mine, that apparently liked me at one point, and I completely missed it.

The moral of the story is that guys are just as clueless as girls. However, if a girl can be honest about her feelings for a guy, and ask him on a date, it would take the pressure off of the guy to be able to read her mind.

However, several issues arise when a girl is outgoing and asks a guy out. One of them is that judgmental people will call her negative things like “easy” or “desperate.” When in reality, she’s confident and can’t contain her feelings any longer and just wants to get the show on the road.

My question is: why is a girl desperate if she asks a guy out, but if a guy asks a girl out he isn’t? Just because a girl is confident enough in herself to ask a guy out, that does not make her desperate. A girl can be outgoing and respectable at the same time, and in my opinion, that makes her more attractive and respectable as opposed to a girl who is unapproachable.

Ladies, do you want to have a man treat you like a princess? Try treating him like a prince. When I say prince, I don’t mean be his personal servant but rather know that it is ok to make him feel special and let him know that you care. There is nothing more attractive than a beautiful girl who is also warm and welcoming, and there is no more desirable kind of woman than one who makes her man feel wanted.

I think it’s okay for a girl to ask out a guy on a date. I still believe that when it’s time to make the relationship official, it tends to work out better when the guy makes that step. I also believe that it is the man’s job to propose for marriage. I can’t picture a woman getting down on one knee, and asking a man to marry her.

I know it’s tradition, and a cultural norm, but I think this one is right.

The man should be the one to take the initiative and be the leader in the relationship. I’m not saying girls can’t take the initiative from time to time (it really helps when they do), but men and women both have their roles to play in relationships, and can do so while still treating each other as equals.

Andrea Gorkofsky She said

In the world today, women fight for the right to not be seen as lesser than men.

As long as this has been going on, it is sad that women still feel the need to do this.

However, it seems we still expect the male species to make the biggest of gestures.

But since we want so badly to be just as domineering as men, I think that it is absolutely acceptable for a girl to ask a guy out. I cannot think of a better way to show confidence as a woman by having the courage to be the first one to make a move.

With the amount of time we spend on Facebook and texting, girls actually have it pretty easy if they want to ask a guy out.

It doesn’t even have to be in person or on the telephone anymore. Truthfully there are no excuses for girls to be shy anymore.

It’s simple to shoot a guy a text saying, “Hey want to get dinner tonight?”

The worst that can happen is he says “no,” over a text, and you move on. You can’t say you never tried.

Also, I think guys today are different than they used to be. If they actually like a girl, they have trouble admitting it, so they may not have it in them to ask you out for some alone time. Their ego or pride may overpower their desire to ask you out and as a result, they let the opportunity pass them by. Girls on the other hand, if we like you or see potential, we would love to get some food and pop in a movie without our friends there to annoy us.

Deep down, I believe guys are insecure and fear rejection more than girls. So if we are in a situation where we find ourselves wondering why he has not asked us out yet, perhaps he is just nervous. This is when we can take charge and do it ourselves. He will probably be relieved you took all the pressure off him to do it and actually respect you more.

Asking a guy out on a date is girl power and in my opinion, not a big deal.

It seems that girls are gaining more of a backbone when it comes to dating and initiating steps forward.

When it comes to asking a guy to be your boyfriend however, it is a little different. This type of step forward in a relationship shows real commitment by giving it an official title. I think that a guy should be the one to do this.

Girls can put the work in leading up to this point by arranging the dates and initiating the conversation to making it known we are interested. We will tip-toe around the subject but never be the first to ask for the relationship to be official. But the big gesture, the main move, the final mark to sealing the relationship is for a guy to handle.

Most likely if you have been together for a while without the official title, it’s the girl waiting on the guy to make that step.

If it has been a while and never comes, then girls can intervene and drop the “it’s all or nothing” line.

Other than that as a female, we have the ability to put ourselves out there, openly say we are interested since the male species tends to get a bit confused, and only hope for the best. Once we have done this, we have done enough. The rest is a man’s job.

Editorials

7

Doing a ‘Little Shop’ping

To say that I have been busy the past few weeks would be an understatement. From balancing schoolwork, the newspaper, and my senior project, I have become a human tornado. I just Tasmanian devil my way around leaving mainly my SHU card in my wake (which I’ve misplaced three times in the past two weeks).

Don’t get me wrong, I’m enjoying all of my classes, and my time spent in the Spectrum office always seems more like fun with friends than work, but every once in a while I find my self involved with something that consumes me, and this time around it’s the spring musical, Little Shop of Horrors.

I’ve recently learned that there is nothing that makes me happier than being on stage, and it doesn’t hurt that I’m surrounded by fabulously talented people who I’ve come to know and love through the Theatre Arts Program. Although most of us had already known each other from doing RENT last year, there were a bunch of new faces that I’m extremely glad I can now call my friends.

Lindsay Caiati Chief Copy Editor

After weeks of rehearsals and late nights bonding with the cast, we’ve finally reached opening night, and I can’t believe it’s actually here.

Everyone has been working so hard and put in so much time and energy; from helping build the set and stage managing, to costumes and make up, Sacred Heart students have been involved since day one.

“As part of the backstage crew I can tell you that the show is going to be amazing. All the actors and crew have been working extremely hard and it’s definitely paying off. It has been a blast working with everyone,” said sophomore Jeff Therkelsen, “From the principles to ensembles everyone is bringing their best to the table.”

I have to agree with Jeff, the ride has been nothing but exciting, we’ve seen everything fall into place and since the band has started playing it’s starting to feel like a real show.

“From what I can tell all of my friends have been working very hard. I’m excited to see this piece of Broadway magic brought to the SHU community I heard the band playing yesterday and they sound awesome,” said sophomore A.J.Cusello.

What really gives the play life is a culmination of music, talent, and energy, but my favorite part of the show is the plant, Audrey II.

I find myself forgetting that there is not actually a carnivorous, talking plant on stage, and that in reality it is freshman Nick Schulman bringing the brazen Audrey II to life. So stop by the Edgerton, pick up your ticketsß and enjoy the show.

Just remember… Don’t feed the plants!

An editor’s fear of flying brought to new heights graduating so this is a fear I will have to overcome, or mask with large amounts of valium or those tiny bottles of alcohol the stewardess carry around.

Dan Graziano

There is nothing more annoying then people telling Sports Editor me, “you know more people die in car accidents than aircrafts.” Yes, I am aware of that but I am in control of

A well-known fact about myself is my fear of flying. the vehicle and I would rather hit a guardrail on the side No, I’m not scared of extremists taking over my flight, of the road, and unfortunately those are nonexistent in the but rather the inability to be in control and trusting my skies. fellow human. A pilot who for all I know could be drunk

The fear in general is a stupid one, but I am not or exhausted from a 12-hour shift has hundreds lives alone. Thousands and possibly millions of other people in his hands. I am fearful of a plane plunging to earth; share the same fear as I do, but why? whether it be land or sea, dropping 36,000 feet is some For me it all comes down to my fear of dying and thing very few humans can survive. death in general. This fear is propelled forward thanks in

I plan to move out to California within months of part to the media and their endless coverage of anything devastating.

As I skim through CNN.com, I see two he articles relating to aircrafts, new bodies from the 2009 Air France crash have been found and a three-foot hole ripped open on a recent Southwest flight.

It are articles like these that scare of Editor-in-Chief Sports Editor crap out of me and they always seem to Therese O’Shea Dan Graziano come out right before I am about to take a trip.

Managing Editor Asst. Sports Editor The 2009 Air France disaster is still a Alyssa Scott Liam Roecklein mystery and will most likely never be Ryan Hannable News Editor Elizabeth Fish

Asst. News Editor Erin Murtagh Brittany Foy

Chief Copy Editor Lindsay Caiati Asst. Copy Editor Frank Morrone

Perspectives Editor Kelley Bligh

Advertsing Manager Janelle Cracco

Asst. Perspectives Editor Brittany Calvanese

PR & Digital Media Dir. James Kearns

Features Editor Marisa Graniela

Asst. PR Manager Cliff Faulkner

Asst. Features Editor Ashley Monaco

Photography Editor Zack Lane

A&E Editor Emma Levine

Asst. Photography Editor Sean Elliot Jaclyn Kennedy

Asst. A&E Editor Jaclyn Hendricks

solved, as facts surrounding the incident are minimal and the chances of finding the silent black boxes are slim to none.

The flight data recorder and cockpit recorder, known more commonly as the black boxes, only have batteries that send a signal out for 30 days.

Then you have the Southwest Airlines plane which had to make an emergency landing at an Air Force base in Nevada due to a three to four foot hole being ripped open mid flight.

The plain was at 36,000 feet when the incident occurred and while oxygen mask dropped from the ceiling the pilot was forced to due a nosedive to 11,000 feet in order to depressurize the cabin.

The airline cancelled over 600 flights over this past weekend and found five other planes with cracks in them.

However, the scary truth is that all these cracks were missed in their last inspections.

The FAA has recently announced plans to inspect 175 older 737s, yet this does not ease my nerves.

As a broke college-student and a soon to be unemployed college graduate I frequently look towards cheaper airlines such as JetBlue and Southwest for more affordable flights.

Perhaps next time I am looking to fly I will take this into consideration. The irony of the situation is perhaps the old saying, “you get what you pay for.”

Editor’s Choice

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Graphic Design Meaghan Conklin Faculty Advisor Prof. Joanne Kabak

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This is Fairfield Beach a few days ago still empty and still cold entering the month of April. It is a popular spot for Sacred Heart students once the weather is warmer.

Arts & Entertainment

8

TAP puts on ‘Little’ performance this weekend

The Spectrum/Zack Lane

Trevor Kelly, Paul Cappadona, and Lindsay McGrath star in TAP’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors,” opening April 7 at 8 p.m. in the Edgerton.

...CONTINUED from page 1.

A Roger Corman musical, “Little Shop of Horrors” is based off of the 1960’s film of the same name, and has won best musical awards from the New York Drama Critics Circle, according to the Lortel Archives.

“Little Shop” revolves around an down-on-his-luck floral assistant named Seymour, who soon becomes famous when he discovers an exotic plant with an unusual hunger for human blood.

TAP’s very own Paul Cappadona will be playing Seymour while Lindsay McGrath takes on the role of love interest Audrey.

“I expect the show to go extremely

well because of all the long hours and effort everyone has been putting into it,” said sophomore performer Paul Cappadona.

“Acting is something I have loved every since I was little. I'm not nervous for the performance because I zone out on stage, it's as if it is just me and the people up their with me, so I’m feeling very comfortable with it,” he said.

Last April, TAP put on it’s first main stage performance of the musical “Rent.”

Hundreds of people filled the Edgerton and the show proved to be successful, winning the “Event of the Year” award during the Campus Life Leadership Awards.

“After last year's show, great results are expected,” said Goehring. “It should go just as well. Everyone knew about ‘Rent.’ ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ was made much earlier. But this is musical theater, every show is different.”

The stretch of shows will end with a performance by Debbie Reynolds, a star of film, stage and television. She will take the stage on Sunday, April 10 at 7 p.m. after the last performance of “Little Shop.”

“The idea of a plant being that large and that animated is intriguing and really interesting to watch,” said freshman Christina Bauch. “I have seen the play a few times before, and each time I watch it I find myself movin’ and groovin’ to the

fun music and mesmerized by the giant plant creature that says ‘Feed me!’”

TAP will kick off it’s first performance of “Little Shop of Horrors” tonight, Thursday, April 7 at 8 p.m. Following shows will be held on Friday, April 8 and Saturday, April 9 at 8 p.m. with the final show taking place on Sunday, April 10 at 3 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased in person, over the phone, or online at EdgertonCenter.org. Tickets for the general public are priced at $22, senior citizens and Sacred Heart University faculty and staff are $15 and students with Sacred Heart ID are $10.

Saying farewell to screen legend Elizabeth Taylor Lisa Manente Staff Reporter

There are Hollywood stars and starlets. Then there are Tinseltown legends. On March 23, the city of dreams lost one of its most iconic actresses.

Academy Award winning legend, Elizabeth Taylor died March 23 at the age of 79, as a result of congestive heart failure, according to the Washington Post.

After the official announcement of her death, via numerous media outlets, fellow celebrities, as well as A-List fans, came out in droves to offer the Taylor family their condolences in remembering the once “Cleopatra” star.

“We have just lost a Hollywood giant. More importantly, we have lost an incredible human being,” said musician Elton John in a statement to CBS news.

“She was always, always there for me. I'll miss her for the rest of my life, but I was so lucky to have known her," said friend Liza Minnelli to E! Online.

Even though they may not have grown up during the peak of Taylor’s lengthy career, members of young Hollywood took the time out in remembering the real-life legend of the silver screen.

“Glee” starlet Lea Michele even wrote on her Twitter page, “so sad to hear about Elizabeth Taylor. It's the end of an era for sure."

Although Hollywood is still mourning, the sudden loss of Taylor has affected the Sacred Heart community as well.

“I know who Elizabeth Taylor is. Being a legend like her means being known across generations,” said sophomore Fatima Butt.

Others are also saddened by Taylor’s death.

“Elizabeth Taylor had remarkable longevity as a movie star. I think that her image endured because it was so multifaceted and contradictory,” said media studies pro-

fessor Sara Ross. “She bridged the golden age of the Hollywood studio system and the next generation of method actors.”

Taylor began her acting career at the age of 12, after appearing in the film “National Velvet” in 1944.

Soon after, the former child star became and Academy Award winner for her roles in “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf,” and “Butterfield 8,” according to the Internet Movie Database or IMDB.com.

However, Taylor made her career-defining role in the 1963 flick “Cleopatra,” as the title character. People.com reported that Taylor was the first actor in Hollywood history to garner a salary of over one million.

With her daring and controversial movie roles, such as a call girl and a brazen wife, Taylor’s on-screen recognition, as well as her personal life, ultimately made her into a household name.

Throughout the decades, Taylor became a media fixture, whether stemming from her sex appeal, eight marriages, over 70 hospitalizations, or her friendships with fellow controversial names such as Liza Minnelli and the late Michael Jackson.

“She was adulated for her beauty and scorned for her weight gain. She seemed hedonistic, with her love of jewels and her many marriages, but she proved to be an unwavering philanthropist,” said Ross. “She was unreachably glamorous and yet people felt that they knew her intimately.”

After big-screen career began to cease, she then began to help others, thanks in part to her continuous star power.

“To me, a legend is someone who gives back, and tries to make a difference,” said freshman Ashley John.

According to People Magazine, Taylor’s outstanding support of AIDS activism and involvement in numerous charities is what led to her receiving the Presidential Citi-

AP Photo

Legendary actress Elizabeth Taylor died March 23.

zen's Medal in 2001 by then-President Bill Clinton, in addition to becoming a Dame in Britain the year before.

“Acting is, to me now, artificial. Seeing people suffer is real,” Taylor told the Associated Press before she died.

Though Taylor may have though acting to be something fake in her later days, junior Dana Givens believes Taylor encompasses of how legends should be remembered.

“A legend should be remembered as a role model.

People should look back and think they were a good person, and remember them with respect.”

A fan of Taylor herself, Ross shows support of the star as well.

“She didn’t leave behind a singular image,” she said.

“She left behind a complex portrait.”

April 7, 2011

A&E 9

‘Harry Potter’ star named a ‘Hero’ Former wizard, Broadway star honored by Trevor Project

Ge

Dan Miller Staff Reporter

Although many know Daniel Radcliffe from the big screen as Harry Potter, he has recently served as an inspiration to the gay community. Due to his involvement in a PSA encouraging gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, and questioning teens to seek help and prevent suicide, Radcliffe is set to receive the Trevor Project’s Hero Award.

“I think that out of everything that I've done so far in my career, I think this is absolutely one of the most important, if not the most important, thing that I'm associated with,” said Radcliffe to the Associated Press.

He has always been supportive of equal rights for all, according to an interview with MTV and now will be rewarded for his efforts.

According to the Associated Press, the Hero award will be presented to Radcliffe at a ceremony in New York City to “recognize a person who serves as an inspiration to sexual minority youths.”

Past recipients include Vanessa Williams, “Milk” screenwriter Dustin Lance Black, and actor Nathan Lane for their efforts in various fields supporting human equality.

“Daniel Radcliffe has a large fan base stemming from the Harry Potter movies,” said junior Jen Hlavac.

“Many of these include teens and young adults who will admire him and hopefully follow in his footsteps.”

Students said they were supportive of Radcliffe’s achievements and also said they think he will serve as a great inspiration to others.

“I think Daniel Radcliffe is a good role model for the gay community, and I know he's gotten involved in the past with GLBTQ issues,” said Joey Pruitt, president of Sacred Heart’s Gay Straight Alliance. “I think it's always a good thing when well known actors are in support of the GLBTQ community.”

Other celebrities have made strides to promote not only the Trevor Project, but also awareness about the prevalence of suicide within the gay community.

Perez Hilton, Kathy Griffin, and Ellen DeGeneres are among many other stars that have made similar videos to Radcliffe’s.

Although some students are not familiar with the Trevor Project they still have respect for what it does.

“I don’t know much about the Trevor Project, but I definitely support that they are advocating for the GBLT youths,” said sophomore Maria Tucker. “Since

Does Jake Gyllenhaal crack the ‘Source Code?’

Dan Graziano Sports Editor

AP Photo

Daniel Radcliffe will be honored by Trevor Project.

last year’s unfortunate suicides, there has been a lot of attention to the community, and it’s great that they’re able to help the people in need.”

Other students also feel similarly to Tucker.

“Although I’m not completely familiar with the Trevor Project, I do support the anti-suicide PSA’s that the organization put out last year in support of the gay community,” said junior Kelly Moulton. “I wasn’t aware that Radcliffe had done one of them, but I think it’s great that since he did, he’ll be rewarded for that.”

The Trevor Project’s “It Gets Better” project was launched last year in reaction to the many suicides that happened. According to the web site, the campaign now has over 250,000 followers.

The Trevor Project provides a free, confidential hotline for crisis support.

According to Radcliffe’s public service announcement, “If you’re feeling helpless or hopeless, there’s always a safe place to turn…Be proud of who you are.”

Film fans ‘Hungry’ with excitement Bill Haug Staff Reporter

From the “Harry Potter” franchise, to “the Twilight Saga,” it seems that the Tinseltown trend of best sellers to the big screen is not going away anytime soon as another notable novel series is set to hit multiplexes in the spring of next year.

Best-selling author Suzanne Collins will officially see her sci-fi adventure series “The Hunger Games” make its silver screen debut in 2012. The highly anticipated flick is already garnering attention from the media, and Sacred Heart University as well.

“I absolutely loved the book. I'm in the process of reading the second one. When I've recommended it to friends, they'll ask what it's about,” said graduate student Kate Schlosser. “It's definitely a book that you have to read for yourself, to see how good it truly is.”

Set in the post-apocalyptic world in the district of Capitol, the sinister rulers of the land pin children from different villages against one another in a fight to the death. At the heart of the story is the young heroine Katniss, who is fighting to survive.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, first time Academy Award nominee Jennifer Lawrence is set to star in the title role, earning nothing but praise from both the film’s director, Gary Ross, and author Collins.

“I absolutely cast the right person for the role and in my view there wasn’t even a question who the best Katniss was,” said Ross in an interview to Entertainment Weekly. “This is a girl who needs to incite a revolution.

We can’t have an insubstantial person play her, and we can’t have someone who’s to young to play this.”

Collins could not agree more on the Hollywood

t R eel

casting choice, noting that the 20-year-old Lawrence will be “amazing” in the role.

“As the author, I went into the casting process with a certain degree of trepidation. Believing your heroine can make the leap from the relative safety of the page to the flesh,” said Collins. “Jennifer’s just an incredible actress. So powerful, vulnerable, beautiful, unforgiving and brave. I never thought we’d find somebody this amazing for the role. And I can’t wait for everyone to see her play it.”

With Lawrence in the drivers seat of Katniss, the next step for the studio was to cast the role of the leading man, better known as Katniss’s love interest Peeta.

After countless casting rumors from “I am Number Four’s” Alex Pettyfer to “Weeds” star Hunter Parrish on nabbing the role. Lionsgate officially made the announcement on Monday, April 4 that Josh Hutcherson of “The Kids are All Right” would play the part.

“This would definitely have to be an action packed movie,” said Schlosser. “It would keep the attention of the audience, just as the book did with the reader.”

Yet, despite how great “Games” may be shaping up to be, students are still skeptical as to whether or not the film adaptation will measure up to the original novel.

“It depends on how well they’re done,” said sophomore Samantha Fasanello. “I like the ‘Harry Potter’ movies, but even still there’s no way that everything from the books can be captured.”

Fans and theatergoers alike can look forward to the final product, in addition to seeing whether or not “Games” stays true to the book on March 23, 2012.

Contributed to by Asst. Arts and Entertainment Editor Jaclyn Hendricks

Source Code, an action packed thriller delivers endless excitement and suspense all with a punch of sci-fi.

While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, for those of you looking for an exciting science fiction film I would recommend that you check it out.

The film, directed by Duncan Jones (the son of famous rocker David Bowie) stars Jake Gyllenhaal in the lead role as United States solider Colter Stevens with Vera Farmiga and Jeffery Wright supporting.

After paying my 11 dollars and sitting through a few terrible coming attractions (with the exception of The Hangover Part II) the film commenced.

Stevens wakes up aboard a Chicago commuter train not knowing how he got there or why people are addressing him as someone else. He quickly learns that he is not in fact himself, but rather schoolteacher Sean Fentress.

In a panic Stevens paces up and down the trains corridor with a look of confusion across his face. He goes to the bathroom, only to find that the person in the mirror isn't himself.

Within minutes of him waking up the train abruptly explodes into flames, killing everyone on board as we the viewer (along with Stevens) travel through time and space with the ending point being present day.

Confused? It’s ok, you should be.

Stevens wakes up again, but now in a dimly lit capsule isolated and alone. The only things visible are scraps of metal, wires, and a fuzzy television screen. The voice of fellow soldier Goodwin (Vera Farmiga) is heard and we see her face appear on the TV screen. Stevens discovers that a terrorist bomb destroyed the commuter train he was just on earlier that day.

We learn that Stevens has been participating in an experimental Army intelligence program for the past two months that allows him to continually relive the last eight minutes of a recently deceased person, in this case the schoolteacher, Sean.

The bombing of the train was only the beginning of a larger attack for the city of Chicago. His mission is to find the bomb and the terrorist who has threatened the attack in the heart of city.

Unlike other movies that have used repetition, Source Code never goes sour our feels overdone. The film is a well-written roller coaster ride spanning 93 minutes, with superb acting provided by Gyllenhaal.

Overall Source Code is a smart and satisfying action packed sci-fi thriller that is well worth the steep price of today’s movie ticket.

AP Photo

Michelle Monaghan and Jake Gyllenhaal in the mind bending thriller “Source Code.”

Get Reel gives Source Code

Features

10

Spotlight on A letter from SG President Looking toward end of semester, bidding adieu to SHU

Dear Pioneers,

This semester is certainly flying by, it seems like just yesterday classes began. With the weeks passing so quickly I’d like to take a moment to provide some updates on Student Government happenings.

We are excited about the success of a new initiative that Student Senate took on this semester regarding student outreach called the focus initiative.

Although our weekly outreach reports have provided us with a glance into the thoughts of our peers we “dug a little deeper”.

The senators were successful in reaching out to a diverse group of students and have a new list of concerns to tackle.

A few weeks ago Student Government representatives met with the New York Times to learn about their campus newspaper distribution program.

Some of you recall when we had free copies of the NYT scattered around campus a few years back.

SG is pursuing reinstating this program with the assistance of administration so that we can

continually be connected with current global issues. Keep your fingers crossed!

Elections take place today, April 7 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., either online or in Hawley Lounge.

Please make sure that you take time to VOTE! In closing, I would like to thank all of the students for allowing me to serve as your Student Body President for the past two years.

I truly feel blessed to have had the opportunity to serve as your voice and representative to our staff and administration.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and concerns with me, please continue to do so as new leaders rise to positions in the coming months so that Student Government can continue to effectively serve every student.

As always please e-mail me with any thoughts, comments or concerns that you find pertinent to share!

Best, Kelly Leather Student Body President

Upcoming SG Events April 13: Last senior pub night of the year! “Senior Class Zero Year Reunion” in Outpost Pub April 15-17: Greek Weekend April 28: Campus Life Leader ship Awards in Edgerton April 29: Mr. SHU in Edgerton April 30: Spring Fest May 1: Trip to Six Flags May 11-14: Senior week!

Check out our website for information on Hydration Stations and “Dancing with Heart”!

Pioneer pride lives on past graduation Allison Bennett Staff Reporter

For some, a class reunion before you graduate may seem premature. However the alumni relations association and senior class at Sacred Heart University think it’s perfect way to mark the end of a great college experience.

On April 13 the “Senior Class Zero Year Reunion” will be held in the Outpost Pub.

“The event is a celebration of the senior class and it also welcomes the class of 2011 to the Sacred Heart University Alumni Association,” said Emily Rohman, the alumni relations coordinator.

The university holds class reunions every five years until a class reaches the 35 years mark.

This gives alumni the opportunity to attend seven class reunions and reconnect with old friends.

“Essentially, this is the senior class’ first class reunion with the next coming in 2016,” said Rohman.

The event is expected to become an annual occurrence that future classes of the university can take advantage of.

“I am definitely looking forward to the last senior

Photo courtesy of Emily Rohman

Alumni pose to show their pride and school spirit.

pub night, I’ve enjoyed them throughout the year and hopefully there will be a good crowd for the last one,” said senior Cam Sheary.

The event will be similar to all other pub nights and will include a live band, food, and giveaways.

The alumni relations association will also be there to introduce new ways to stay connected with the Sacred

Heart community.

“We have many opportunities for them to get involved and being an alumnus is certainly something to be proud of,” said Rohman.

The alumni association has made significant efforts to connect with the senior class through social networking, which has become a major mode of communication.

The night will be bittersweet for many members of the graduating class.

“I have had a lot of fun here at SHU and I’m going to miss it so much,” said senior Kaitlyn Swanson.

“This pub night seems like fun and now that my time is almost up I am really appreciating any opportunity to spend time with my class.”

Others state it should serve as a reminder that Sacred Heart will always be a part of the students’ lives.

“The event serves as a ‘hoo-rah’ for the last senior pub night but it also allows Alumni Relations to show the senior class that this doesn’t mean that their days at SHU are over,” said Rohman.

“It’s a great way to celebrate your last months at Sacred Heart with your friends,” she said.

“Alumni Relations just wants you to know that it doesn’t have to stop after you graduate.”

Students anticipate end-of-year ‘Spring Fest’-ivities Shawnee Zyskowski Staff Reporter

Spring has sprung on campus and students are enjoying the warmer weather as groups move their events outdoors.

With the stress of finals approaching, students look to outdoor events as a way to relieve the tension and enjoy themselves.

These events range in a variety of causes and include charitable works like the AIDS and MS walks, informative occurrences like the Car Crush and Cherry Blossom Festival, and the biggest hit – Spring Fest.

“It was easily one of the nicest parts of the year, especially with the stress of finals approaching,” said

sophomore Trevor Kelly, who was among those who attended last year’s Spring Fest.

Spring Fest is hosted by the student events team, and was implemented as an annual tradition at Sacred Heart last year.

The festival takes place on the Chartwell’s Patio. Here, students living in Merton and Seton Hall as well those in the main academic building can easily notice the activities taking place.

Weather permitting, the schedule of events typically includes music, activities, and free food.

“The weather was brilliant, the food was beyond readily available, and the band was pretty great,” said Kelly.

This year’s Spring Fest is scheduled for SaturPhoto courtesy of Colleen Craffey day, April 30 at 12 p.m.

Students hang out on the patio during last year’s Spring Fest.

April 7, 2010

Features 11

Taking a slice out of new local pizzeria Spectrum reviews Black Rock’s latest Italian hotspot Tomato and Basil

Meridith McLoone Staff Reporter

Looking for a small, comfortable place to eat? Tomato and Basil restaurant on Black Rock Turnpike in Fairfield might be the perfect option. The small Italian restaurant has a great, casual atmosphere and is the perfect place for a quick bite to eat.

Tomato and Basil has only been around for about a year now. The owners wanted to create a location that provided a fun atmosphere where people could go and enjoy delicious Italian food.

When walking into the restaurant, you are immediately welcomed by the staff and seated. Our waiter came right over to provide recommendations from the menu and

attempted to gain a sense of what we were in the mood to eat.

The menu certainly has a lot to offer, from sandwiches and salads to large pizza pies and entrées. The soup and salad section of the menu provides the option of a small or large portion. In the pizza section, you can get a personal, medium, or large pie. After deciding, we didn’t have to wait long for our food to come out.

“I had the four meats pizza and it was amazing,” said senior Michael Powers. “It was brick oven pizza with thin crust and had a delicious selection of meats, cheese and sauce.”

Two people can split many of the dishes that are on the menu. Although each dish comes in large portions, the small plate options are still enough for dinner. If you enjoy

The Spectrum/Kim Rooney

Tomato & Basil, located at 1876 Black Rock Turnpike. The menu consists of more than just pizza. Aside from the usual pizza pie, there’s a plethora of soups, sandwiches, and hot appetizers.

seafood, their fried calamari is a great choice for an appetizer and sized perfectly for two people.

“Tomato and Basil has a great variety to choose from they literally every kind of Italian food you could think of,” said junior Kate Garabedian. “I had their eggplant rollatini and [it was] so delicious, but the portion was really big and it was in the small plate section of the menu.”

The menu prices are reasonable for a college student ranging from a small soup at $4.50 to an entrée at $19.95. The small plates begin at around $8.95 and go up to $14.95.

The pizza section of the menu allows you to create your own pizza with different toppings at varied prices. It also offers a selection of pizzas they have created for you all of which are about $10 for a personal pie.

“I think that the prices are reasonable,” said senior Sean Brown. “When I first looked at the menu I thought it was a really expensive place but when I got my food I realized the prices were perfect because of the large portions.”

“You get what you pay for,” he said.

Tomato and Basil has different food specials everyday. For those 21 and over, there are also daily wine specials.

Bottles of wine that are $40 or more are offered at 40% on Mon. through Wed. If you’re not looking to purchase a bottle, wine by the glass costs about $6 to $9.

“When we went we got the bottle of wine special and it saved us $20 and two of us split the medium sized pizza,” said Powers.

They also have a wide selection of beers on tap including, Ithaca Flower Power IPA, La Chouffe, Blue Point Toasted Lager, Oskar Blues Mama’s Little Yellow Pils and BBC (Berkshire Brewing Company) Steel Rail Extra Pale Ale. They range from $5 to $7.

Tomato and Basil is a great place to go with a small group of friends and really enjoy each other’s company and the food.

“I look forward to going back to this restaurant I really enjoyed myself,” said Powers.

A tip – get there around 5:30 p.m. because the restaurant does get crowded as the night goes on.

Ralph Nader proposes to cut collegiate athletic scholarships Samantha DeFalco Staff Reporter

“When people hear the [term] student-athlete they think that this group of individuals are privileged and that things are handed to them,” said Kimberly Banner, head coach of the women’s soccer team at Sacred Heart University. “That perception is so wrong.”

Ralph Nader, a consumer advocate and four-time candidate for President of the United States, is trying to end athletic scholarships in an attempt to de-professionalize and revive the integrity of college sports.

While many may think that the best high school athletes will automatically get a college scholarship, there are many components that go into such a decision.

“Getting a scholarship is a lot of work and it takes time and true talent to get one,” said freshman Erin McAndrews of the softball team. “You must go to showcases find coaches, and then when you get to the university have to keep that expectation.”

According to the Associated Press, Nader’s supporters propose that athletic scholarships be replaced with need-based financial aid.

Though there are many who support what Nader is attempting, some disagree. The article states that NCAA spokesman Bob Williams, argues that categorizing college athletes as professionals defies logic.

“Student-athletes have so much more on their plate than any other student,” said Banner.

For many students, an athletic scholarship is a way for them to afford the education they wish to obtain.

“I am on a combined scholarship for athletics and academics,” said junior Samatha Kee, of the women’s soccer team. “While my academic scholarship was enough to allow me to come to Sacred Heart University for my first semester, earning an athletic scholarship allowed me to stay.”

Student-athletes devote a large portion of their college careers to the requirements set by their respective

sport.

“On top of the workload that the average student puts in student-athletes also have to put in scheduled study hours, community hours, actual games on weekends where your normal student does not have that time taken away from them,” said Banner.

In an article entitled, “Ralph Nader’s College Scholarship Proposal and Other Political Involvements in Sports” it was mentioned that many parents go through years of youth sports in hopes that their children will get an academic scholarship.

But even after years of practice, not every student who is exceptionally good at a sport can afford to go to college and play on a team.

“Now to take scholarship money away from an individual who has worked so hard to become good, that is criminal,” said Banner.

Many don’t play a sport simply for the money, but for the love of the game.

This experience allows them to bond with teammates and learn new things about themselves.

“Sports / athletics have been around forever,” said Banner. “It is a way of teaching discipline and responsibility to people.”

“It helps develop individuals mentally and physically,” she said.

Getting rid of athletic scholarships would create an obstacle for some.

“It would be unfair to end athletic scholarships, preventing certain individuals who excel in athletics from seizing academic opportunities that may otherwise have been unavailable to them,” said Kee.

For some, playing a sport is their passion and the most important thing in their life.

“Individuals that may not have much can always have a sport or activity to play,” said Banner. “It is a form of release to some.”

“To take opportunities away from people to grow and to better themselves is wrong,” she said.

AP Photo

Ralph Nader, four-time candidate for US President, is working to end athletic scholarships.

Sports Saturday, April 2 M. Lacrosse SHU - 18 Wagner- 4

12

Scoreboard M. Tennis SHU- 7 Hartford- 0

Baseball SHU- 4 / 1 Quinnipiac- 2 / 0 Doubleheader

Sunday, April 3

Baseball SHU- 14 / 5 Quinnipiac - 2 / 6 Doubleheader

Softball SHU- 7 / 11 Mount St. Marys- 3 / 2 Doubleheader

Pioneers fall to Bobcats Jason Trueblood Staff Reporter The Sacred Heart University women’s lacrosse team had rough start in last weekends game that ultimately led to the 14-5 defeat to the Qunnipiac Bobcats.

The Pioneers scored their first goal with 3:05 left in the first half, only to be trailing 9-1.

One of the games critical stats was the Pioneer’s 21 turnovers, while the Bobcats only recorded 16.

It was just not a good day for the Pioneers as they found themselves down by eight at the half.

Quinnipiac came out to play in the second, scoring two quick goals and adding to their lead 11-1.

The scoring went back and forth for the remainder of the second half, but the Pioneers could not make up the deficit, falling by a final score of 14-5.

The Bobcats are 5-3 overall, but 4-0 in the NEC, holding the conference’s top spot. The Pioneers fell to 2-8 overall, with an NEC record of 1-2.

The Pioneers only have three seniors on their roster out of 30 players.

One of the Pioneer’s bright spots the past few The Spectrum/Sean Elliott weeks has been the play from NEC Freshman of Sophomore Stephen Kontos (#31) positions for a face-off to start the Pioneers first ever Northeast Conference game. the week Kelsey Russo.

Other than youth, one of the Pioneers largest weaknesses is their defense. The Pioneers have given up double digit goals in every single game this season but one, a total of 153 goals in just 10 games.

The Pioneers will hit the road with games man Alex Miller and sophomore Trevor defense as well shutting down Wagners at Bryant, tomorrow (April 8) and Central Morgan Mireski Dauses. star players.”

Connecticut State, on April 10, before returning Staff Reporter Wagner midfielder Colin O’Rourke Sophomore Steven Kontos won 16 home to play Long Island on April 15.

The men’s Lacrosse team had their slipped one past the defense to make the face-offs in 21 tries for the Pioneers, Stats courtesy of Sacred Heart Athletic first conference game of the season score 5-1 at half time. O’Rourke ended and led the team with eight ground balls, and contributed a goal.

Department.

Saturday night on Campus Field against up with two goals for the Seahawks.

“The team stayed up and played “It all starts with Steve, and him the Wagner Seahawks.

The Pioneers defeated the Seahawks a full game with no let ups,” said winning 16/21 face-offs obviously Whitfield.” “A number of guys made means we have 16 more chances then 18-4.

“Opening up with a win felt great,” great plays to help contribute to the the other team to score,”said Tate. “It win.” was a huge key to our success.” said junior Tom Whitfield. .

Going into the third quarter, the The Pioneers won by a convincing Due to a recent error found within this article This game was not only head coach Tom Mariano’s 100th win and 86th as a Pioneers were more confident then ever. 14 goal margin. “We are a young team all quotes have been removed for the Online ediPioneer, it was the first time they have They started the quarter with four goals this year looking to make a statement in tion of this issue. I am sorry for the inconvenience competed in the Northeast Conference. in the first six minutes, making the score this conference, being that it is our first and we will be printing an apology in our next publication Until this year, the Pioneers competed 9-2. Sophomore Eric Madigan scored a year,” said Whitfield. hat trick for the Pioneers.

Although this was a huge win, the as a Division I independent.

Freshman Kyle Cordaro made his Pioneers are focusing on their next big - Dan Graziano “To be a part of the Northeast Sports Editor Conference is an awesome thing,” said first appearance in goal this season in opponent, Mount Saint Mary’s.

“At this point in the season, we like junior Rock Tate. “But being the first the fourth quarter.

“I was nervous,” said Cordaro “But to think the conference is up for grabs,” team to win the conference is going to after I made the first save and heard said Whitfield. “Mount St. Mary’s is a be even better.”

Freshman Tom Sardelli opened the the bench yelling for me, which was a team we have a history against, both as a non-conference opponent and a former first quarter for the Pioneers with a goal weight was lifted off my shoulders.”

Cordaro was quick to give some conference rival.” from 15 yards out. At the end of the first The Pioneers have been preparing quarter Sacred Heart led the Seahawks praise to his teammates.

“Zach Frank played really well, all week for this game, and coming off a 2-0, with a last second goal from sophoallowing not only me to get in net but big win is always a positive. more Pierce Bradley.

“They’ve beaten us three times by “Our offense looked well mov- Alec Dvoretsky and Ryan Hughes did as one goal, including last year, so this one ing the ball and making plays and the well,” said Cordaro.

Sophomore Bryan Badolato had the is really personal for us,” said Whitfield. defense did a great job shutting down first two goals for the Pioneers in the The Pioneers take on Mount Saint Wagner’s offense,” said Whitfield.

Mary this Saturday on Campus Field at Senior captain Zach Frank had nine fourth quarter.

Badolato is currently leading the 1 p.m. saves.

“From here on out, it’s up to us to At the start of the second quarter, team with 18 goals and 10 assists thus continue to work hard in practice and junior Matt Ferrino scored in the first far.

“Our offense possessed the ball prepare for the upcoming games to give minute of play with a man- up advantage. Sacred Heart increased the lead which I feel was a big part of the game, us a better chance to win out,” said to 5-0, with two more goals by fresh- “ said Cordaro. “We came out strong on Whitfield.

pioneers prevail Defeat Wagner in first-ever NEC game

Sports

April 7, 2011

Sports 13

Game of the Week Weekend of April 8 Baseball Sacred Heart Pioneers at UNLV Rebels Las Vegas, Nevada

Day in the life: Pioneer golf

Eddie Cacioppo Staff Reporter

For Division I athletes, playing collegiate sports and attending classes can become a juggling act when considering time management, however the men and women’s golf teams handle this task with ease.

Unlike some of the other collegiate sports offered at universities across the nation, athletes who play golf get the opportunity to participate in multiple seasons during the course of the year.

“Golf is a pretty unique college sport, where we basically have two seasons,” said senior golfer Andrew Strom. “Our main season is the spring, where we tune up for conferences. The first season runs from the start of September until mid-late October. Then we start up again in March and go into early May, possibly even later in May if we win conferences.”

During each season, the members of both the men and women’s teams configure their course schedules corresponding to certain practice times, availability of the course, and other activities they perform on a daily basis as a team.

“Basically I make my class schedule around our practice schedule,” said senior Andrew Cavasino. “We all try to keep our afternoons open because it is an ideal time to golf.”

“The golf team typically practices everyday,” said senior Meghan Tonno.

“During our winter months/off season we either practice at our indoor facility or we do cardio, lifting, and stretching work-

outs.”

With the spring soon approaching and the weather improving from the recently snow filled winter, Pioneer golfers can finally get outside and working on their craft.

“Right now we practice three days a week [Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday] at Great River Golf Club in Milford, and the other four at the Wheel next door to campus,” said Strom.

The team practices both on the range, and the course.

“We are usually out there for about two hours typically hitting balls at the range and then we go out and play 9 holes,” said Tonno.

Practicing everyday may seem overwhelming for some, however the preparation is needed for each and every round.

“Each tournament, we have five players that compete, with the top four scores counting towards a team score,” said Strom. “We qualify for tournaments at Great River, anywhere from 36 hole to 72 hole qualifiers. These qualifiers are one of the reasons that our team has won conferences two out of the last three years. On days we don’t qualify, we either get some work in on the driving range, or more importantly, work on our short games.”

The men’s team consists of 11 golfers who compete against one another to participate in the various tournaments they qualify throughout the season.

“Our depth showed at our first tournament of the spring, where we had six guys in the top 20, as well as Dave Renski who won the individual title,” said Strom.

The Spectrum/Eddie Cacioppo

Senior Andrew Strom practices his swing on a recent afternoon.

Renski, is the teams number one player and leads by example.

He will be graduating in May and his abilities and triumphs on the course speak louder than any words could.

“Dave not only has a superior golf game, but his mental game, which is huge for golf, is what separates him come time for a tournament,” said Strom. “Dave pushes everyone on the team to step up their games, and to continue to work hard each day.”

With Renski leading the way, the golf team strives to succeed and win each tournament by practicing hard and remaining

composed in preparation for the real thing.

“Obviously our goal this year is to win conferences,” said Strom. “We feel like if we play to our full potential, it’s not a question of are we going to win, it’s a question of by how much are we going to win by. Losing last season by a single stroke has definitely been our main motivation this season.”

Since the Pioneers lost the conference title by one stroke last year, they know that every shot is extremely important.

“Our team believes that great moments are born from great opportunities and we like to step on our opponents throats, so to speak,” said Cavasino.

When the Pioneers are not practicing or playing in tournaments, they are focusing on their schoolwork.

“I enjoy being on the golf team because it helps me with managing my school work,” said Tonno. “Practice keeps me busy and I know that I only have a certain amount of free time during the day away from class and practice to get my school work done. I use my free time more efficiently now.”

But, it is not all business with these athletes. They still can find some free time to kick back and let loose from their demanding schedules.

“Off the course we like to have a good time like anybody else,” said Cavasino.

The Pioneer men will be in action next April 10 and 11 at the New England Championship. While the women will compete next April 11 and 12 at the Hartford Invitational.

Bowling finishes ninth in final national rankings Kelly Welsh Staff Reporter

Dedication, perseverance and motivation are some of the many qualities members of the women’s Sacred Heart University bowling team possess.

While their season is over, the team is carefully examining both the improvements and mistakes they made, in all efforts to compete in the national’s competition next year.

“Our official ranking in the nation is currently ninth place, just shy of making it to nationals,” said junior Savannah Zientara.

The Pioneers’ record for this was extremely impressive with 75 wins.

“The final matches we competed in were very important when determining national selections. We had some positive matches, and some matches that did hurt us, but, we learned from them,” said freshman Nicole Trudell.

In bowling, technique is everything.

Learning from past mistakes is what ultimately makes the women improve and advance their skills.

“As a team, we could have focused more at the shot in front of us, instead of trying to win a match in one frame,” said Trudell.

Bowling matches are a team effort and each player’s performance each frame has a grave affect on the final score.

“As a team, we need to learn to leave

Photo Courtesy of Sacred Heart Athletics

Sophomore Jacqueline Willy rolls the ball in a recent tournament. the past behind us and continue with our goals, both as a team and individually,” said Zientara.

The Pioneers practice as much as they can, and try and get better with each session.

“As a team, we practiced frequently and as often as we could. It definitely showed when we were competing, and helped us stay connected as a team to win matches,” said Trudell.

Practice is an excellent time for the women to improve their techniques and help each other progress and move forward to both become better athletes and

teammates.

“I feel like the videotaping we conducted in the beginning of the year helped us develop and improve so we would be ready to compete come time for the first tournament,” said Zientara.

This proved to be positive for the Pioneers, as they won four out of the five matches in their first tournament.

“The final matches we competed in were very important as well in determining national selections. We had some positive matches, and some matches that did hurt us, but, we learned from them,” said Trudell.

The women’s final record was 75-38 for the 2010-2011 season. As they look back on the mistakes they made, the Pioneers can use that to both better their record for next season and earn themselves a spot at the national competition as well.

Their motivation and positive attitude are qualities that will ultimately help the women reach their goal.

With only four seniors graduating, women’s bowling is a relatively young team, comprised of mainly freshman, sophomores and juniors.

Having so many returning athletes, and many teammates that express excellent leadership qualities, the Pioneers have an excellent shot of achieving the goals they wish to accomplish for the 2011-2012 season.

Senior, Erin Weinman was the teams leader this year, always trying to keep the

team positive.

“Whether we are down 100 pins in a match, or up 100 pins in a match, she keeps our heads in it and does whatever she can to keep our mental game strong.

As a teammate, I could not ask for anyone better,” said Trudell.

In a sport like bowling, having a strong and positive mental attitude is essential. Having teammates that foster and uphold that attitude is what ultimately holds a team together.

“I believe we have a few individuals on the team that could fit in that category as being a leader, but we are all leaders in different ways,” said Zientara.

Zientara expects big things from Trudell in the next three years.

“Freshman Nicole Trudell jumped right into the team with her high level of talents along with her enthusiasm to succeed.”

Like Trudell, Zientara praised Weinman and her positive attitude.

“I believe that Erin Weinman and I have been a big influence on the team by giving motivational speeches to boost our team’s confidence and to strive for not dwelling on our past experiences, just to work off of them,” said Zientara.

The Pioneers have their priorities and goals set in place for their next season.

With a positive and strong team, there is nothing standing in the way of the women reaching their goal to compete at nationals next year.

Sports

14

Men’s fencing ranks 13th in nation Blake Campbell Staff Reporter

Williams, Dion earn All-American honors

The competition was fierce early on, but the Pioneers were up for the challenge.

Down 8-1 in a competition in which 14 secures the win, the Sacred Heart fencing team found its rhythm as they clawed their way back and defeated their rival Brown University at MIT. This was the beginning of a monumental season in which the Sacred Heart fencing team ranked 13th nationally in NCAA competition, while producing their first ever All-American and most-importantly making a name for an often-overlooked program.

“That kind of set the pace for us throughout the season,” said Justin Dion, a junior who placed 11th at the NCAA Championship tournament as he was named an All-American Honorable mention.

After falling behind early at the MIT competition, Sacred Heart shocked their rivals when they were able to overcome them. With Brown needing only six more wins out of 18 bouts, the Pioneers denied them as they made a statement in an amazing comeback.

“In the last round we had to take five out of six to win. We took care of business and we just said ‘No. We’re not going to lose,’” said Dr. Thomas Vrabel, head coach of the Sacred Heart fencing team.

It wasn’t the first time the Pioneers had a taste of success. But as they garner more success, they also garner more

enemies.

“Two years ago, we won the NEC and went undefeated in the conference. We beat some teams that were traditionally up there and we surprised some people. This year everybody was gunning for us. They wanted to take it back,” said Vrabel.

The Pioneers had no intent of giving up ground to the competition. With the bullseye on their chest, the Pioneers repeated their success in producing their second consecutive undefeated Northeast

“We come into the competition and we’re not arrogant, but we’ve got a little swagger. Yeah, you’ve got to worry about Sacred Heart.”

-- Dr. Thomas Vrabel, Fencing Coach Fencing Conference season en route to a 15-9 record.

They also won their second consecutive NEC championship. The foil squad consisting of Stuart Holmes, Victor Nieto and Jim Roberts won their second consecutive Silvio Vitale Cup at the NEIFC Tournament, a trophy given to the best squad at the tournament.

“We’ve been building over the last couple of years. This year just happened to be our breakout season,” said Marty Williams, a junior fencer who won second team all-American honors.

The Pioneers produced three first-team all league fencers in Holmes, Williams, and Dion. They also sent two fencers to

UConn wins third National Championship ...CONTINUED from page 1. none of Butler’s points came from inside the paint.

The Huskies had their share of problems as well, finding themselves in foul trouble early on, and only seven first half points from their leader Walker. But they controlled the inside, scoring 14 of their 19 from inside the paint.

“I was surprised none of the big names from either side came to play in the first half,” said Sacred Heart University junior Brian Giddinge.

“But Butler didn’t really capitalize, other than shutting Walker down.”

Butler (28-10) hit a small stride towards the end of the half, netting five three- point field goals. A pivotal play came as Bulldog guard Shelvin Mack connected from beyond the arc, tying the score at 19. It was yet another three from Mack with one second left in the first half that gave Butler a 22-19 advantage going into the locker room.

“The halftime speech was rather interesting,” said Calhoun in the interview from the team’s website. “The

adjustment was, we were going to outwill them and outwork them.”

And outwork them is exactly what UConn did. Butler’s abysmal field goal percentage in the second half allowed the Huskies to break away to an almost 20 point edge early on.

The Bulldogs could get nothing to drop for a streak of 13 minutes, and their efforts toward the end of the game were not enough to close the gap.

“If Butler was able to make more from the field and stop more of UConn’s points in the paint, I think they could have prevailed,” said Giddinge. “Regardless, UConn deserved to win because they were the better team.”

The scene in Storrs was just as electric, as upwards of 7,500 students packed Gampel Pavillion located in the middle of the UConn campus.

“Seeing thousands of students packed into one dome, cheering for one common cause was incredible,” said former Sacred Heart student, and current UConn junior Ryan Sullivan.

It is a feeling that people there will never forget.

the NCAA Championship for the second consecutive year.

“Justin came in good regionally in Massachusetts but he really didn’t have a national rep. He rapidly established himself. Marty was junior national champion before he came here so he had a really good reputation. Now he is really up where he should be,” said Vrabel.

The two came together to represent Sacred Heart in the NCAA championships in which they would stand off against some of the top fencers in the nation.

“We both made it to NCAA’s last year but we didn’t do as well as we wanted to.

Going there this year, we had a different outlook on it. We knew what we were getting ourselves into,” said Williams.

In the NCAA competition, there are only 24 spots per event for the whole country. Up to 12 individuals can be sent per school to represent their team. Sacred Heart only sent two but was able to place 13th overall in the men’s competition, one place up from 14th the year before.

“We’re taking spots from schools that have big reputations in the area. The spots that they would normally have, Sacred Heart and Vassar are getting. We’re two teams on the rise,” said Vrabel.

Williams placed fifth out of 24 competitors in Saber en route to winning Second Team All American honors.

“It’s definitely a big accomplishment, but I feel like it’s what I came here to do.

I expect to do even better next year,” said Williams.

Dion placed 11th in Epee en route to winning Honorable Mention All American.

Overall, Sacred Heart ranked 16th in the NCAA Championship, two places up from 18th the previous year. The Pioneers hope to keep improving over years to come.

“We’re starting to get the athletes so we can really be good all the time. If you can qualify five or six people, then you can get to the top ten. And that’s where we want to go. And we’ve got people that are real focused,” said Vrabel.

The Pioneers feel they are in contention for a top ten spot with a strong freshman recruiting class for next year.

“We have to work with the freshmen, exploit what they’re good at, and build on things that they’re not so great at,” said Dion.

The Pioneers matched their improvements on the fencing strip with improvements in the classroom. Both the men and women’s fencing teams averaged over a 3.0 GPA this year.

“They pushed us and told us we could do it and what we had to do to get it done,” said Williams.

The team has high expectations for next year as they continue to try to make a name for sacred heart.

“The best thing I can do for these guys is to get them to believe that they can achieve at that level. Five or six years ago, we were overlooked. Now, people aren’t overlooking us,” said Vrabel. “We come into the competition and we’re not arrogant, but we’ve got a little swagger.

Yeah, you’ve got to worry about Sacred Heart.”

April 7, 2011

Sports 15

Softball takes three of four Ryan Urso Staff Reporter

Pioneer softball made their presence in the Northeast Conference felt this past weekend.

The Pioneers split their double header on Saturday against Monmouth University and swept Mount St. Mary’s in the Sunday double header.

In game one, Monmouth jumped out to an early 1-0 lead over the Pioneers in the top of the second inning on a Pioneer fielding error and a single.

In the bottom of the second Liz Tsipouras reached first on a lead off walk.

Nicole Sidor and Shannon McCoy followed up with a pair of singles to load the bases. Kirsten Savage the ripped a shot down the third based line to plate two runs, putting the Pioneers ahead 2-1.

The Hawks best chance to regain the lead came in the fifth inning. With bases loaded and two outs, senior pitcher Jen Russell induced a harmless ground ball to end the Hawks rally.

The Hawks were unable to get back into scoring position for the remainder of the game, solidifying the Pioneers wins, 2-1.

“Saturday’s games were intense,” said Taylor Froelich, a senior outfielder.

“Kirsten Savage did a great job. She had a diving play and timely hitting on Saturday.”

Game two of the double header would not go as well for the Pioneers. A lead off triple and sacrifice fly by the Hawks gave them an early 1-0 lead. The Pioneers bounced back quickly.

In the bottom of the fourth inning, Tsipouras led the inning off with a walk.

The next batter, Jasmin Vicente hit a

ground ball to the shortstop, however the Hawks committed a throwing error allowing Vicente and Tsipouras to be in scoring position.

The Pioneers tied the game with a Sidor RBI single and took the lead on an error by the Monmouth center fielder.

Marissa Montemagni, hit and RBI triple to extend the Pioneers lead to 3-1. However, the Hawks would not go down quietly.

After a bunt single in the fifth, Emily deLong hit a two run home run to tie the game 3-3. The Hawks were able to score two more runs after Sacred Heart failed to close out the inning. The Hawks added five more runs in the sixth inning and one more in the seventh to solidify a 12-3 win.

The Pioneers were disappointed with the split, but knew they had a chance to make up for in on Sunday. “We wanted to sweep on Saturday so that was a little disappointing, but taking one from Monmouth is still a success,” said Froelich.

On Sunday, the Pioneers were determined to sweep the visiting Mount Saint Mary’s.

Sacred Heart struck first in the bottom of the third inning. Jade Bowins legged out a double to put her in scoring position. She later scored on a Tsipouras single to left field. The Pioneers would extend their lead in the fourth inning.

Savage and Montesano each walked and scored on a triple by Froelich putting the Pioneers up 3-0. Froelich scored on a Mountaineer fielding error, putting the Pioneers up 4-0. Tsipouras would knock in another run with a single of her own.

In the fifth inning the Hawks managed to plate three runs, cutting the lead to 5-3.

The Pioneers would score two more runs in the sixth on a Shannon McCoy single.

That was all Russell needed to close out

The Spectrum/Allison Serpico

Senior catcher Shannon McCoy tries to beat the throw at first base in last weekends game.

the game. She ended the game with a 1-2-3 seventh inning giving the Pioneers a 7-3 victory.

The Pioneers carried the momentum into the second game. The Pioneers took an early 1-0 lead on an aggressive basing running play by Froelich who tagged on a foul ball to score the first run. The Pioneers took control in the third inning scoring six runs.

“We had a huge inning and scored six runs against Mount St. Mary’s. We continued to hit one after another,” said McCoy. The Mountaineers’ only two runs of the game came off a two run home run

by Choloe Mizanty. The game was ended after Tsipouras hit a two RBI single up the middle in the sixth, forcing a mercy rule.

The Pioneers swept the Sunday double header.

“Everyone’s attitude after this weekend could not be any better. We are at our top game,” said McCoy. Despite the successful weekend, Coach London knows that the team still has work to do. “ We had a nice weekend in the NEC. Our team knows that there is no time to celebrate or rest because we have a long way to go before we accomplish our goals.

So the attitude after the weekend is “back to work” to get better at what we need to do keep winning,” said London.

The Pioneers are off to their best start in the Northeast Conference since becoming Division I with a 5-1 conference record. The Pioneers take the field in another NEC filled weekend this Saturday at 1 p.m. with a double header at Central Connecticut State.

Men’s tennis looks to take conference crown Sean Elliott Asst. Photo Editor

The Sacred Heart men’s tennis team came into their home opener of the 2011 season with a 7-6 record and looked to take advantage of their stretch of matches at home this past week.

Their home opener on Wednesday, March 30 was a close 4-3 win over conference rival, Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Doubles won at the one and three spots to gain a point and singles split with the Knights.

However, the three singles losses were hard fought, each match finishing in three sets.

The Spectrum/Sean Elliott

Junior Chad Sullo serves the ball versus Fairleigh Dickinson last week.

Cole Conrad played number three singles and lost a close match to Mark Hemy, 7-6, 3-6, 10-8.

Kirill Kasyanov continued his dominance as he earned his 12th straight win defeating Ibahim Shams, 6-1, 6-1.

Chadd Sullo and Jacob Miller also won their singles matches, 6-3, 6-3, and 6-4, 6-2 respectively.

Defeating Fairleigh Dickinsen not only improved the Pioneers record, but also got them a big win against a conference opponent.

On Saturday, April 2 Sacred Heart traveled to Hartford for an out of conference match and came away with a dominating win.

They won 7-0 without dropping a set in singles and improved their match-winning streak to three in a row. The Pioneers also improved their record to 9-6 overall.

Logan Mohring started at number five singles and earned his first victory of the year, 6-3, 6-0. Also, Kasyanov won his 13th straight match beating Aneil Bhalla, 6-2, 6-3.

“It was a pretty good match, the whole team played pretty well. It was good preparation for our upcoming matches,” said senior Kasyanov.

The Pioneers faced Fairfield this past Monday, April 4 in tough weather conditions with rain from overnight saturating the courts.

The last minute decision to move the match to Fairfield University did not allow the players to warm up and did not help either team during the match.

Fairfield came away with the victory 5-2.

Miller and Conrad lost their matches 6-3, 6-3, and 6-0, 6-1 respectively.

However, Kasyanov extended his match

Senior Mike Syer returns a serve in a last weeks match. win streak to 14 in a row and won a tough three set match, 6-3, 2-6, 6-4.

Although it was a tough loss to swallow the team remains optimistic and focused on the conference matches ahead.

“Overall the team looks great. We haven’t lost a conference match and now we have Quinnipiac this Friday,” said senior Chris Ujkic.

Starting tomorrow, April 8, the Pioneers have five straight home matches before the Northeast Conference Tournament.

Two of those five matches are against conference rivals and two wins the team needs in order to get the number one seed in the tournament.

“We’re real deep and are playing our

The Spectrum/Sean Elliott

best tennis when it counts,” said Ujkic.

With only the weekend matches remaining in their season, this is when it counts.

“Going into these last two conference matches we are all very confident.

We are all playing well right now and having a great season against some tough opponents. Were excited for the last few matches and competing for an NEC title next weekend,” said senior Michael Syer.

If the Pioneers win their two matches this weekend, they’ll earn the top record in the Northeast Conference.

The Northeast Conference tournament will begin April 15 in West Windsor, NJ.

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Pioneers look to be inaugural NEC Champions

DAUSES DELIVERS

The Spectrum/Sean Elliott

Sophomore Trevor Dauses (#21) sets himself for a shot on net in last Saturdays conference opener versus Wagner. Dauses recorded a goal and an assist in the game.