The
Week of March 21, 2012 • Vol. 37, Iss 21 •
Mirror
The Reflection of Fairfield
• Independent Student Newspaper of Fairfield University
F.U. Housing!
Rising junior class reports hectic housing experience Emails, angry phone calls and occasional crowds arrived at the Office of Residence Life this week as the countdown to the class of 2014 housing pick night neared its close. Particularly dedicated droves of students spent entire mornings and afternoons waiting for help from Residence Life employees, some hoping to find last-minute roommates as they paced the LLBCC. As expected, all applicants for junior year housing will be guaranteed a residence on campus; however, groups that received a lottery number higher than 92 were notified Tuesday morning that they were to exit the lottery, split and reconstruct their groups to live in “8 person apartments” or opt to live in Kostka Hall. Even applicant groups who reconfigure into eightperson residences are not guaranteed apartments, depending on their lottery number. Rising junior Brandon Bubba’s lottery number was 97. He asked: “Why does housing have to add stress to people’s lives? They built more housing to make it easier for juniors and seniors, and now it’s harder for me to get the housing that I want than it was for sophomore year. They should be offering me a beach house.” Acting Director of Residence Life Ophelie RoweAllen knows from experience that this state of affairs on the eve of pick night is not unusual, and the frustration for this year is not expected to end soon. “[The frustration] is going to continue until they all get housing. This is normal and we are prepared for it every year,” said Rowe-Allen. Suzy Peterson, a secretary at the office of Residence Life for 12 years, echoed Ophelie. “We’ve had a lot worse years with phone calls and parents upset. Some years it’s a piece of cake. Sometimes it’s like there’s a full moon,” said Peterson. Developments that have yet to occur may make some students’ stress unwarranted. What many students do not know is that approximately 50 students from the class of 2014 are projected to not return to school this coming fall.
Story By Luigi DiMeglio Chief Copy Editor
Photo Illustration By Loan Le Executive Editor
Housing | page 3
News
D o m e s t i c and I n t e r n a t i o n a l
Contributed Photos
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
Fairfield Service Trips
Kentucky
Maine Washington, D.C.
“This experience made me realize that this world is truly round, providing that anywhere you go, everyone needs help, and it’s our choice to either help or turn our backs.“ -Jameel James ‘14 Belize
“The trip impacted me more than I thought it would. I went into my Virginia trip excited that I would be spending my break in my element, the wilderness, but I was pleasantly surprised by the incredible people we met and got to know over the course of the week.” -Alex Fulypovych ‘14 Virginia
“It was such an inspirational experience to see how grateful and appreciative the homeowners were in the face of such disaster. You could almost see the sense of relief on their faces as we were helping to clean. I couldn’t have asked for a better way to spend my spring break.“ -Lauren Bruchansky ‘14 Kentucky
“The service trip to the Passamaquoddy Native American Reservation allowed me to connect with the land and the people. Our trip didn’t have any goal oriented projects necessarily, but the connections we formed with native people and the non-native people were exceptionally meaningful and meant the world to us. I can see myself returning and building on the relationships I formed.” -Erin Sullivan ‘14 Maine
Belize
Page 2
“Helping the families affected by the tornadoes was truly a humbling experience that I will never forget. It was inspiring how much hope and faith that these families had. It makes you thankful for everything you have.“ -Julie Colangelo ‘13 Kentucky
“Seeing the grateful faces of the people that we served hot meals to, giving them clothes so that they don’t freeze at night and playing with children that went through so much in their lives at such a young age made me realize why I love service.” -Clara De Frutos, ‘14 Washington, D.C.
“This was Campus Ministry’s Ignatian Solidarity Corp’s first Spring Break Service trip to Belize City to work with Hand in Hand Ministries. Under the guidance of Hand in Hand Ministries we were granted the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the Belizean culture and be with the people of Belize, especially those part of the Hand in Hand community. Our journey to put the Jesuit Value of Men and Women for Others into action resulted in an amazing week that produced answers and posed more questions regarding our larger purpose.” -Adriane Castillo ‘12 Belize
Virginia
News
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
Page 3
Students Miss Out on This RCADE
By Vincent Ferrer Cartoonist
In this highly competitive job market, every advantage matters and a diploma alone does not cut it. Luckily for students, the Media Center offers an easy way to distinguish oneself. However, most students do not know about it. On alternate Wednesdays throughout the semester, the Resource Center for Advanced Digital Exploration (RCADE) offers free tutorials for video and photo editing platforms on Final Cut Pro-7 and Adobe Photo Shop CS4, respectively. However, many students who neglect their email accounts probably have no idea that such an opportunity exists to strengthen their technical skills in a highly competitive job market. Jean-Henry Mathurin, media coordinator for the Media Center, explained in an interview how the workshops came about during the first days of Powerpoint presentations. “[The workshops are] basically giving students and staff a chance to play, ... to come and learn some new skills in the digital media,” said Mathurin.
As the technology industry quickly became more advanced, more detail-oriented programs and courses were created to meet student needs. The University, however, continued to offer these introductory workshops to the campus community. Yet, somewhere along the way, awareness of the opportunity feigned. In a survey of 25 students and staff members, only five knew the workshops were offered. Two did not even know where the Media Center is located (Xavier Hall in the Fairfield Prep building). The problem is twofold: one part student apathy and one part being uninformed. Except for a mass email sent at the beginning of each semester and a banner that appears on Stagweb, the workshops are not vigorously marketed to students. Bob Cammisa, the main instructor for these workshops, noted that people are not as interested as they should be in these programs. “With anything in the media world, you want to know these programs if you want to pursue anything,” said Cammisa. However, he did not just limit it to new media majors. According to Camisa, students
of all majors stand to benefit from this added skill: “Maybe a company will take you on because they know that in addition … you can create the company logo.” Senior film major Dan Dunn, heavily involved with the Media Center, reinforced Cammisa’s view. “I don’t think you ever know what a job may entail,” said Dunn. “You may need to use Photoshop for a project in marketing or any kind of business.” An article by the Huffington Post earlier this month reported that only 54 percent of Americans ages 18 to 24 currently have jobs, the lowest employment rate since 1948, when the government began keeping track of this information. These RCADE workshops offer what could be that crucial extra skill set in a quick, easy and engaging format. Cammisa stressed the introductory nature of these workshops and how no experience is required in order to participate. “An intro course isn’t going to teach you everything. It’s going to get your feet wet,” said Cammisa. Mathurin explained the versatile nature of the program. “What we’re teaching for is personal edification,” he said. “If it can be used for professional use, that’s fine.”
A typical class begins with an introduction of the program, a description of its capabilities and an overview of what will be covered during the session. Participants are then slowly brought step by step through the program and given ample time to try out newly learned skills and ask questions about the material. At the end, recommendations are given on how participants can further their learning, be it through another workshop or a different resource available to them. As far as attendance goes, Cammisa expressed that those who are serious about
Photo Illustration: Martin O’Sullivan/The Mirror
2014 Housing
Continued from page 1
Photo Illustration by Maggie Andrew/The Mirror
Students perform yoga poses in the multi-purpose room used for fitness classes in the RecPlex.
Fitness Classes Work Out
By Richard O’Connor Contributing Writer
Fitness classes at Fairfield? “I had no idea they were even taking place,” said junior Chris D’Agostino. A mystery for some, and a daily routine for others, Fairfield University’s RecPlex offers a wide range of fitness classes from a variety of yoga classes to belly dancing classes. If you haven’t heard of the fitness classes, don’t feel bad. Yoga instructor Jeannie Stevens admits they are poorly advertised. “I’ll be teaching at other places, and people are like, ‘You look familiar, I’ve seen you at the University,’ I’m like, ‘Yeah, I teach yoga there,’ and they say, ‘I didn’t know they had yoga there!’” Sarah Putnik ’13, a veteran of the Abs & Sculpting class, commented on her experience. “The instructor was very nice and very energetic. You’d do different things, like first start out with weights, then she’d switch it up with those bouncy balls so it wouldn’t be so monotonous.” She also explained how its easier to push yourself because of the class
environment and that the classes are a fun alternative to working out by yourself. “It wasn’t intimidating at all, and the instructor could help you one-on-one if she saw you struggling,” Putnik said. Sophomore Kirsten Yerger currently attends Tuesday’s Yoga Flow class and said: “It’s really relaxed. The teacher was aware that not everyone was a pro at yoga, so she slowly worked more advance moves into it.” Stevens began teaching classes at Fairfield in 2004. She talked about the environment of her classes here at the RecPlex. “I go by the energy in the room. I focus on what their needs are,” Stevens said. “If their energy level’s really low, and they want a chill class, I do that. It’s a flowing class, you hold poses, you’re going to build strength, flexibility, focus. You get that nice peace of mind everyone is looking for.” If you think that yoga and body sculpting might not be appealing to the guys, you would be right. “I feel like there’s a stigma for guys to go to anywhere in the Rec Plex except for the weight room,” offered Yerger.
The list of fitness classes offered doesn’t exactly excite most male students on campus. “I probably wouldn’t go to one of those classes, I just like lifting by myself,” said D’Agostino. However, he did say that if there were a class more geared toward men, he’d consider it. While they do not appear to be popular with male students, the low prices make them an appealing option for many. Prices for the semester start at $40 for the weekly classes. “I thought the pricing was good because you pay for the class for the entire semester,” said Putnik. Yerger also expressed her approval of the prices, but also her distaste in class flexibility. “It’s less expensive than going to a yoga place, but it’s not unlimited. You’re stuck going at that one time.” Although there might be some room for improvement, the fitness classes at the RecPlex offer options for those who are tired with their current routines and can be a fun way to mix things up.
learning these skills eventually find their way to the workshops. Currently, workshops are attended by an average of 2-3 students per class. Those who attend get to use top of the line dual-screen Mac computer work stations as well as editing software that can cost upwards of $600. For juniors and seniors, the opportunity to participate in these workshops is invaluable. “If you know how to use it [the programs], you have more value to a prospective employee” said Dunn.
According to Associate Director of Residence Life Charlie Sousa, the above figure is based on trends from past years. He said many students vying for housing do not yet know if they will not return because of unfulfilled academic, transfer or financial concerns. Those student departures will create empty beds in townhouses and apartments, providing those who decided to bypass pick night with unpredictable housing options in August. Sousa, who, according to ResLife staff, is the only person who knows details about the housing lottery, spent most of his day tackling a high number of student requests and questions in between meetings. As students pressed for an opportunity to see the busy administrator, secretaries and other Reslife staff answered questions as best they could for some and simply scheduled appointments later in the week for others. Some left the office displeased with the system as a whole, calling for a “fairer” process. Rising juniors Haidy Malik and Christopher DelVeccio want housing options to be given first to students with higher grade
point averages. Others, like Alex Fylypovych ‘14, dread the social implications of the last-minute apartment scramble. She walked into the Office of Residence Life Tuesday afternoon with a long face and few options. “I just feel bad,” she said. “Now I’m going to be fighting with other friends to get into an eight … It’s just frustrating.” According to Sousa, the idea of moving to a GPA-based system or others is voted on every few years by a group of students. “Every year we try to reevaluate the housing process,” he added. In some ways, student input had led to the current need for applicant group restructuring. “Eight [-person] residences were built on a student request process that began six years ago. Eight would be great according to student feedback,” said Sousa. “Since the townhouses shifted from five-person and sevenperson groups, there has been no real request for eights.” Ultimately, the number of juniors having to live in Kostka Hall next fall will be about the same number as this year. The housing lottery for rising sophomores opens March 28 and closes April 5.
Danica Ceballos/The Mirror
Students crowded the ResLife Office after 2014 lottery numbers were released.
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
News
Page 4
Campus Crime Beat
Tuesday, 3/12 12:13 p.m.
Mirror Picks of the Week!
Sunday, 3/18
A hit-and-run was reported on a University maintenance 9:28 a.m. motor vehicle. Since the vehicle was amidst several assignments, the primary location of the hit-and-run could Six vehicles in the Walsh athletic center parknot be identified. ing lot were reported as having been struck with eggs. Anyone with information regarding this Thursday, 3/15 incident should report to Public Safety. 1:51 p.m. 10:57 a.m. The smell of smoke was reported in the animal A disabled motor vehicle was rechamber of the Bannow ported in the library parking lot. penthouse. The source was The bumper had fallen off and identified as a humidifier was dragging on the ground. Towunit inside of a refrigerator ing services were provided. that had burnt out. Monday, 3/19
3:39 p.m. Two prep school vehicles were observed by CNS employees as operating recklessly near the Dolan gate. Officers who responded were unable to locate the reported vehicles.
12:13 p.m. A caller reported a mountain bike in a ditch north of Kostka Hall near the dumpsters. The owner can contact the Department of Public Safety with a description of the bike to reclaim it.
*If you information about any of these incidents, please contact the Department of Public Safety.*
Classifieds 3 BEDROOM FURNISHED BEACH HOUSE FOR RENT 2012-2013 School Year Great House with Fantastic Parking
BEACHFRONT HOUSE FOR RENT Great Location 701A & 701B FAIRFIELD BEACH ROAD
Martin O’Sullivan, Editor-in-Chief Loan Le, Executive Editor
Incorporated 1977
Business Department
E-Mail: advertising@fairfieldmirror.com Mikaela Tierney, CFO Gabriella Tutino, CFO
Free Pizza Bring a Friend Story Deadline 6 p.m. Sunday
Corrections Box In last week’s cover story for The Vine concerning “Theatre in the Raw,” the page 10 headline read “Farifield” instead of “Fairfield.”
See an error? email info@fairfieldmirror.com
Editors
Danica Ceballos, News Elizabeth Koubek, Opinion Jennifer Calhoun, Sports Thomas Shea, Assistant Sports Nicholas DiFazio, Photography Margaret Andrew, Assistant News Luigi DiMeglio, Chief Copy Editor
The Vine
Kelsey Guerin, Editor Olivia Snoddy, Assistant Editor
Contact Information Mail Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824
Tuesday March 27Piper Kerman will talk about her memoir, “Orange is the New Black,” about the year she spent in a Federal Correctional Facility 10 years before her sentencing
Lower BCC
Interested? Call 203-254-8419
Affiliated with: ASSOCIATED COLLEGIATE PRESS
Monday March 26Fairfield alumni will share their experiences with careers in Communication at a panel at 7 p.m.
Every Wednesday
Duplex 4 Bedrooms per side Can rent 1 or both sides 703 Fairfield Beach Road 2012-2013 School Year Great Parking Interested? Call 203-254-8419 Reasonable Rent
The Mirror
Thursday March 22Students can order Pepe’s Pizza to support the Bellarmine Museum of Art
Mirror Meeting- 7:00 p.m.
Place your ad for as low as $10!
LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION
Wednesday March 21Men’s Basketball plays Robert Morris in the CIT Quarterfinals at 7 p.m. at Alumni Hall
Email info@fairfieldmirror.com
Cartoonists Vin Ferrer Gregg Pizzi
Online
Joey D’Alessio, Editor Alex Gonzalez, Media Editor
Adviser
Dr. Thomas Xie
The Mirror strives to report accurately in all its stories. If you encounter any errors, please contact Editor-in-Chief Martin O’Sullivan
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
News
Page 5
Students Find More Work, Less Study
By Danielle Manzella Contributing Writer
When asked by her friends to go out to dinner or see a movie, Daryll now has to think twice before saying yes. This is because she, along with other Fairfield students, has faced a drastic cut in her campus work-study hours. “I was able to work 10 to 12 hours per week my freshman and sophomore years,” says Daryll Fay ’13. “But now my work-study allowance only allows me five to six.” The Federal Work-Study Program, funded by both government and university, offers part-time employment to undergraduates in need to help afford educational expenses. Students are notified of their award each year after demonstrating eligibility and meeting all filing deadlines. But due to the increasing absence of federal funding, over 160,000 work-study jobs have been removed nationwide, according to U.S. News and World Report. Many universities have been forced to make huge cuts in this program as a result. Fairfield, a school once considered quite generous in financial aid offerings, appears to be no different. Of eight students surveyed, seven have encountered notable cuts in their work-study hours since May 2011. “I came in freshman year and was given a work study balance of
Luigi DiMeglio/The Mirror
As opposed to past years, students are not working as many evening hours because of cuts in the work study program.
$2000,” says Samantha Bacque ’12. “I made close to if not all of that money, but the following year it was cut to $1500. As a senior, my award is now $700.” Yet the students are not the only party affected. Offices that came to rely on the extra help the program offers them have been experiencing setbacks as well. “The cut in work-study hours affected our front desk coverage,” says Angelica Joy Concepcion, an Area Coordinator in charge of the program for Office of Residence Life.
“[After the cuts] it was a little tough to make sure we had front desk coverage. Some Area Coordinators would skip lunch to make sure we had it and try to do their work at the front desk.” Numerous departments at Fairfield have been forced to hire fewer students and cut the hours of those who do work. But the impact the administration feels does not compare to that of the students who depend on this program, according to Concepcion. “Having two other paid campus jobs prior to the cuts, I considered
stopping one of them since three jobs is a lot to handle on top of five or six classes,” says Fay. “But I had to keep them both because I needed the extra money they bring in.” Others surveyed mentioned taking out loans to pay for supplies and groceries, putting their names on the Fairfield babysitting list in hopes for a call and relying on the money their parents could give them after the cuts were made. “Not having any income is difficult,” says Bacque. “Doing things like shopping with my roommate or
going out to eat are definitely some things I cannot do as much.” But things may get better. Fairfield’s Office of Financial Aid acknowledges the problem and has been attempting efforts for improvement. “After a review of fall FWS (Fairfield Work Study) earnings, we were able to increase awards for some high need students,” says FWS Administrator Kimberly Droniak. “We also completed a second FWS earnings review in January and increased awards for even more students.” With all students experiencing cuts in funding, requests received from both supervisors and students were considered for the awards, according to Droniak. Students are able to inquire with the office on their own if they wish to receive more allowance. “I don’t know much about the whole situation, but from what I understand it was the government who cut the amount of aid given so I don’t think it was really Fairfield’s fault,” says Jennifer Labbadia ’13. “I wouldn’t be going to Fairfield if it wasn’t for the amount of aid I was given and I am thankful for that everyday.” Yet students greatly affected by this would like to see big changes in 2013. The Office of Financial Aid is still unsure of exact awards for next year at this time, according to Droniak. They will be sent electronically to all returning students in the third week of May.
Are you working on…
A cool capstone? Some mind-blowing research? A creative accomplishment?
Share it!
On April 26, Fairfield University will showcase student work. Spotlight yours!
Research and Creative Accomplishments Symposium* Thursday, April 26, 2012 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. BCC lower level
*Sigma Xi Poster Session will follow from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
T H E B RYA N T G R A D U AT E P R O G R A M S The Bryant University Graduate School of Business prepares students for success in their chosen professions. As a graduate, you will join an impressive alumni community that includes industry leaders across the country and around the world. THE BRYANT MBA ONE-YEAR PROGRAM THE BRYANT MASTER OF PROFESSIONAL ACCOUNTANCY (MPAC) Full-time, day program for all majors • No professional experience necessary
Submit proposals (individual and team):
• Distinguish yourself in a competitive job market • Gain hands-on experience with the Business Practicum
March 19 through April 11 For details, visit
www.fairfield.edu/academic/research_symposium Sponsored by the Office of Academic Affairs.
Full-time, day program for accounting majors
• Meets the 150 hour requirement for CPA licensure • Complete in Summer/Fall, Summer/Summer, Fall/Spring or Spring/Summer • Tax concentration available with Summer/Fall or Summer/Summer plan
LEARN MORE ABOUT WHAT THE BRYANT GRADUATE SCHOOL HAS TO OFFER www.bryant.edu/gradschool • 401-232-6230
•
•
Graduate School of Business Smithfield, Rhode Island www.bryant.edu (401) 232-6230
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
News
Getting Involved to Get Ahead By Loan Le Executive Editor
New Year, New Positions By FUSA President
I hope everyone enjoyed their Spring Break! I know this is a tough week back, but there is a big reason to get excited because the time to get involved in FUSA for next year is here! If you want to be a part of some of the great traditions, events and policies of Fairfield University, apply now for one of the various positions available. Next year’s Chair of Programming, Julianne McGrath, and Chair of COSO, Courtney Onofrio, will be hosting an info session for any students who are interested and would like more information. It will be held in BCC 202, Wednesday, March 28 at 7:00 p.m. We encourage you to go to fairfield.edu/fusa and check out the application and descriptions of the positions. Applications are due back in the FUSA office on Monday.
If you need to find Delicia Alarcon ‘14, you might see her at the info desk where she works. Or maybe you can try Sunday mass where she serves as one of the Eucharistic Ministers. Or check her out as she works as a First Year Mentor (FYM). Or you could look for in her dorm room in Loyola Hall. “I’m never in my room,” said Alarcon. Well, you get the point. The sophomore is everywhere on campus. On March 15, the Honors student traveled to Washington, D.C. to participate in the Rising Leaders Summit at the Marriott Metro Center. This summit, sponsored by Teach for America and the National Partnership for Educational Access (NPEA), brought together 115 talented and driven student leaders across the United States. The Summit allows students to develop more leadership skills in seminars and start discussions on how educational equity can be spread in parts of the country that lack in it. Alarcon, a double major in psychology and Spanish with minors in Entrepreneurship and Education, found the Summit to be an inspirational event. “It was very inspiring to meet people from all over the country … and coming together with one com-
Do You Want a Job or Internship?
mon purpose and one common mission, which is to help education reform,” said Alarcon. From the Summit, she cited Jonathan Padilla, treasurer of the Young Democrats of America, as an inspiring figure. Padilla shared four necessary characteristics of all leaders that Alarcon found to be “powerful”: humility, courage to take risks, conviction and passion. Alarcon wanted to “become more involved with the overall mission of what Teach for America stands for, as well as to help the Fairfield community and Bridgeport educational system.” She was also familiar with other service and learning programs like Head Start, an educational system in Bridgeport, which incited her interest in Teach for America. “Being involved with the kids, having the opportunity to speak to them in Spanish, because I know Spanish, and to close that achievement gap - that’s something I’ve always been passionate about,” said Alarcon. She sees Teach for America as a great medium to achieve her goal. As newlyweds, her parents emigrated from Paraguay to United States. Though born in the U.S., she learned how to speak Spanish at home to the point that she had to attend ESL classes to help her English. In 5th grade, Alarcon moved to Asunción, Paraguay. Her parents wanted her and her brother to have a better understanding of their cul-
Career Corner
Register on Experience…and then visit Career Planning for more ideas!
Full-time professional employment, summer internships and local pre-professional parttime opportunities are listed. Visit www.fairfield.edu/cpc and select the Experience link Complete your registration entering your Fairfield email address as the username and the last 4 digits of your ID as the password Search for positions and apply. You must apply to each position individually Questions??? Give us a call 203.254.4081 or Email:cpc@fairfield.edu
Employer Application Deadlines:
Oppenheimer & Co. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Laticrete International Inc. GE Corporate Robinson & Cole LLP Sungard Availability Services Intercontinental Exchange Inc. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Sales Assistant-Wall Street Campaign Coordinator Management Trainee Sourcing Analyst (Intern) Technology Intern Consultant Desk Assistant 2012 Explore Program
03/21/2012 03/22/2012 03/23/2012 03/24/2012 03/24/2012 03/24/2012 03/28/2012 03/29/2012
Be sure to visit Experience frequently for the latest position announcements. Visit http://fairfield.experience.com
Career Programs:
“Careers in Communication” Alumni Panel
Learn from Fairfield University alumni about various careers in the Communication field Monday, March 26 7:00p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Kelley Center Pres. Rm Sponsored by: The Career Planning Center and the Department of Communication
Drop In Hours…. Friday’s
Page 6
9:00-12:00p.m. and 1:30-4:00p.m.
Career Planning, Kelley Center
Contributed by Delicia Alarcon
Over spring break, Delicia Alarcon travelled to D.C. for Rising Leaders Summit.
ture and also have the opportunity to meet family members. Her time in Paraguay was “enriching,” Alarcon said. This bilingual experience inspired Alarcon to implement changes in education. Alarcon is glad to have the educational opportunities that Fairfield provides her. She also cites multiple people on campus - Heather L. Petraglia, assistant dean and director of undergraduate programs at the
Dolan School of Business; Meredith Marquez, associate director of Student Diversity Programs; Kristina Vaios, graduate assistant of Student Diversity Programs; Carrie Rivera, Project Excel; and Cath Borgman, director of the Career Planning Center - who she sees as mentors. So, what’s in store for her in the future? Alarcon hopes to continue her involvement with Teach for America and educating those in need.
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
Opinion
Online
Send your thoughts to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com.
fairfieldmirror.com
Page 7
Opinion | 7 Editor: Elizabeth Koubek opinion@fairfieldmirror.com
editorial Martin O'Sullivan |Editor-in-Chief Loan Le |Executive Editor
A Grim (Yet Warm) Reminder to All
Did you unplug all the appliances in your room before going on Spring Break? Do you turn out all your lights and make sure your television is off before going to class? Have you been disposing of recyclables in blue bins only without using garbage bags? Unfortunately, the most prevalent answer to questions like these here at Fairfield happens to be "no," usually followed by the reasoning that the school pays for it or that we won't have to worry about the environment within our lifetime. However, both of these explanations are faulty. Firstly, if there is a campus-wide effort to leave every light in every room on, this will affect the school's budgeting. Although it might not be enough to raise tuition, the tiny effects of environmental apathy build up in a negative way that can lead to funding cuts to enjoyable programs. More importantly, habits like these can have obvious global consequences. We can assume that society has come far enough to accept that global warming is a reality, as opposed to a myth created by activists in a ploy to destroy the economy. By being indifferent toward our own habits in regard to our planet, we contribute to this very real and imminent global danger. The worst part is that we can already see tangible effects of this scientific phenomenon. Take this winter for instance - you can count the inches of snow that fell through the entire season on one hand. But like most problems in the world, we are faced with a catch-22: the one tangible effect of a very real problem is something that we all wanted anyway, which is the ability to wear a t-shirt in February. But we at The Mirror expect more from our student body. Our school offers many ways in which we can be more a sustainable population, and we should take advantage of them. For example, our new combined recycling program is just one way to ensure a better future for our children. And just like we on the editorial board love to do, criticize! Don't be afraid to question what you think is bad for our environment. For example, we have energy dashboards that are projected on flat screen televisons left on all the time... who thought that was a good idea? So although it might be warm today, think about tomorrow. What kind of world do you want your children to live in? Although they might have to throw on a coat in the winter, at least they will be around to enjoy summer when it comes... that is, if you do your part.
Thumbs Up/Thumbs Down
• At this rate with the weather, we'll be on the beach in March.
• Fairfield's Lacrosse lost their first game of the season to Colgate.
• "The Hunger Games" comes out Friday.
• A strong earthquake hit Mexico today.
• Israel bans underweight • School massacre hapmodels and makes them pened in France. weigh in before jobs. • The new iPad 3 came out this week.
• The new iPad 3 already has problems arising.
• Connecticut passed legislation for alcohol to be sold on Sunday.
• Spring Break and St. Patty's Day are over.
Vincent Ferrer/The Mirror
What are your feeling about why Rush Limbaugh and the double-standard? Have an opinion about something? Send us your thoughts at opinion@fairfieldmirror.com
RUSHing to Further the Double-Standard By Mary Kate McCormick Staff Writer Rush Limbaugh’s protest is by far the harshest and most widely publicized criticism of the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act and women's rights. Imagine advocating for women’s contraception rights only to be called a “slut” and “prostitute” by the biggest name in ultra-conservative broadcasting. This is a reality for Sandra Fluke, the 30-year-old Georgetown law student who, after speaking at an informal Congressional event in support of free contraceptives for college students this past month, was personally targeted by radio personality Rush Limbaugh. For those unfamiliar with the Obama Administration’s recent health care changes, Fluke and Limbaugh have different opinions about parts of the Patient Protection Affordable Care Act, namely the contraception mandate. Starting on August 1, 2012, the Obama Administration wants all health insurance plans to provide contraception to women free of charge. This will include oral contraceptives such as “the pill,” which Fluke advocates for, as well as fourteen other FDA approved safe-sex devices, according to a recent New York Times article. Much conservative opposition to the mandate exists, as birth control is often viewed as a religious issue, rather than one that can be regulated by the government. Starting at the beginning of March, Limbaugh began his longwinded slander towards Fluke. What began as an anti-Obamacare soliloquy, escalated into a full-blown, personal attack Fluke and American women as a whole. Most notable, Limbaugh stated that Fluke “goes before a Congressional committee and essentially says that she must be paid to have sex, what does that make her? It makes her a slut, right? It makes her a prostitute. She wants to be paid to have sex.”
Limbaugh continued to rant that “she’s having so much sex she can’t afford the contraception. She wants you and me and the taxpayers to pay her to have sex. What does that make us? We’re the pimps.” Seemingly, Limbaugh is under the impression that the oral contraception pills Fluke is fighting for are solely because of rampant sexual activity. He is clearly misinformed. Oral contraceptives are also used to treat conditions such as irregular periods, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, acne, menstrual cramps, low estrogen levels, anemia and other potentially life-threatening conditions according the youngwomenshealth. org. Having a dangerous medical condition that requires oral contraceptives would not make women “sluts” or “prostitutes” just looking for sex.
“It makes her a prostitute. She wants to be paid to have sex.” -Rush Limbaugh Young Women’s Health even discusses the fact that taking the pill may even lower sex drive. And Limbaugh should know about drugs that alter sex drive. It is hard to forget about his drug violation is 2006, for smuggling just under 30 VIAGRA PILLS into the country when US Customs searched his private plane upon arrival from the Dominican Republic. According to CBS news, the pills were without a prescription and were confiscated. Since when is erectile dysfunction a justification for drug smuggling? Would Limbaugh be less bitter if his ED medications were covered under insurance mandates? Seemingly, Limbaugh has no right to call Fluke a slut when he himself broke the law in order to please his current wife- not to mention his three
previous exes. He is even quoted as saying, "I had a great time in the Dominican Republic. Wish I could tell you about it,” in the same CBS article. He is overtly bragging about his own promiscuity. Are oral contraceptives the same as illegally smuggled Viagra in his mind? This is not the end of Limbaugh’s radio tirade. Limbaugh used a baby voice to imitate Fluke saying that: "I'm going broke having sex. I need government to provide me condoms and contraception. It's not fair." He continued to ask: "Ms. Fluke, have you ever heard of not having sex? "So, Ms. Fluke and the rest of you feminazis, here's the deal. If we are going to pay for your contraceptives, and thus pay for you to have sex, we want something for it, and I'll tell you what it is. "We want you to post the videos online so we can all watch.” No matter your political viewpoint, these statements are clearly personal, disgusting attacks. What Republican candidate would endorse civilian porn? It is also important to note that all of these quotes are according to the New York Times, because transcripts of this women-hating rant were deleted from his website . . . which says something doesn’t it? Additionally, presidential hopeful Mitt Romney says, “It is not the language I would have used,” according to the NY Times- leaving his supporters and critics wondering what words he would have used. President Obama even made a personal call to Fluke to ensure that she was not too disheartened by Limbaugh’s words. Conservative radicals like Limbaugh perpetuate the female doublestandard- indirectly stating that Viagra is necessary, but female safe-sex is wrong. Every political media source has some type of angle. But, this time, Rush Limbaugh took it too far.
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Opinion
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
Bronzed and Beautiful or Fair and Classy?
By Emily Kert Contributing Writer
Perhaps being tan is a sign of wealth. Perhaps being tan may show that one can afford to go on expensive vacations to the Mediterranean or the tropics. Perhaps it may also be a sign of beauty, for example it may show that one is glowing with health, as opposed to pale skin, which may be viewed as being ill. While having a glowing tan can certainly be attractive, those alabaster individuals should not feel pressured to pay to damage their skin. In Hollywood, pale-skinned beauties such as Erin O’Connor, Emma Stone, Anne Hathaway, Kirsten Dunst, Keira Knightly, Gwenyth Paltro and Cate Blanchett have
“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” is a proverb that reflects the idea that different people possess different standards of beauty. What we consider to be beautiful also varies according to time period or culture. A specific aspect of physical attractiveness which has been shown to have varying responses across time periods, is skin color. According to a recent study, 80 percent of Caucasian Americans under the age of 25 believe they personally look better with a tan. This opinion, however, hasn’t always been the case. In Britain, up until and including the Georgian era (early 1800s), pale skin was popular. During the European middle ages, pale skin was a sign of wealth. From the 1400s onwards whitening the face was a very common cosmetic practice. For example, King George IV had leeches applied to his body purely so it would be fashionably pale, in addition to using cold creams and powders. It wasn’t until 1906 that the first indoor tanning beds were developed for medicinal purposes. Tanning beds were used on patients with diseases to see if the increased sunlight would develop stronger bones Vin and enhance the body’s cen t Fe ability to produce calcium. They rrer /Th eM were first used in the early 1970s for irro r cosmetic purposes. managed to There are various theories as to maintain a sense of why some are so eager for a fake tan. purity and innocence with their
naturally fair complexions. And some argue that pale skin may be making a comeback. According to celebrity make up artist Lee Pyrcroft, who has worked with Cate Blanchett, “Alabaster skin is a chic, classy, beautiful look that’s been gunning for a renaissance. It’s been cherished by the fashion world for several years.” It seems as though people's perceptions of pale skin has varied throughout time. For example, in the German fairy tale, "Snow White," written in 1812 by the Brothers Grimm and known throughout Europe and the United States, pale skin is portrayed as a symbol of beauty. The story begins with a queen sewing, whom pricks her finger on her needle and three drops of blood fall on the snow that had fallen on her ebony window frame. As she looks at the blood on the snow, she wishes for a daughter that had skin white as snow, lips red as blood, and hair black as ebony. Afterwards, she gives birth to Princess Snow White.
Later, when Snow White is a young women, her step-mother’s drive to kill her stems from the step-mother’s jealousy that the magic mirror said, “Snow White is the fairest of them all.” Certain pieces of art from the Renaissance also suggest that perhaps fair skin’s popularity has varied according to time period. In Sandro Botticelli’s 1483 painting, Venus and Mars, the painting depicts an allegory of beauty through the use of the Roman gods, Venus and Mars. Because no contemporary woman would have had alabaster skin as was shown in the painting, scholars have argued that the woman in Boticelli’s painting was arguably based upon his perception of beauty. The light skin of the woman
on the painting gives the viewer an idea of what fifteenth century Italian artists considered to be beautiful.
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Pale skin has also been recently portrayed in the media. For example, in the 2008 American film, "Twilight," (based on the romance novels by Stephenie Meyer) pale skin is presented on the face of heartthrob vampire, Edward Cullen. In the story, his beauty is compared to the mythical Greek god, Adonis, whose “marble like skin sparkles in the sunlight.” Although paying for an artificial tan can certainly cause someone to achieve a healthy glow, doing so does not come without negative side effects. Tanning beds consist of UVA and UVB rays, both of which are dangerous rays that can negatively affect various layers of the skin. Excessive exposure to these rays may also lead to problems such as skin cancer, aging, and staph infections. Those who overuse the tanning beds are also at risk for appearing orange, as opposed to the healthy glow they may have been desiring. Nicole Elizabeth “Snooki” Polizzi from the hit show “Jersey Shore,” actress Lindsay Lohan, and singer Christina Aguilera are three stars who have appeared orange in the media, thanks to an overuse of self-tanner and tanning salons. While using the tanning salon in moderation may initiate positive results for some, those with creamy complexions should flaunt their classy, natural look because fair-skin may be making a comeback.
Kony 2012: One Man Fights for Many Lives
By Courtney Todd Contributing Writer
How do you explain over 30,000 missing children? That’s what filmmaker Jason Russell attempted to do when he released the video KONY 2012 under the name of his what has now become an international campaign, Invisible Children Inc. Russell has been fighting to stop Kony over the past nine years through his invisible children campaign. The aim of the video was to explain to people the horrible crimes that the Ugandan militant rebel group Lord’s Resistance Army, also known as the LRA, have committed over the past 25 years. Their leader, Joseph Kony, was born and raised in Uganda and became the leader shortly after the group was formed. The main objective of the LRA is to abduct young boys and girls from their African villages, turning the boys into child soldiers and the girls into sex slaves, and in the process killing their parents and neighbors, leaving the children with no other choice but to go with him. To say these acts Joseph Kony is committing and has been committing for over two decades is horrible is an understatement. Kony does not fight for any cause but only to maintain his power and is not supported by any group or
government. In Russell’s video he shows images of the children sleeping together in over crowded and crammed situations. He chose to follow the life of one boy named Jacob who said he would rather be killed at the age of 12 than have to keep living as
K o n y ’s soldier. However, Jacob did escape and come to America with the help of Russell and now speaks to groups on behalf of the children still suffering in Africa under Kony’s rule in order to raise awareness. In addition to kidnapping the children and turning them into soldiers and sex slaves, he makes them fear for their lives every day
if they choose to attempt to escape and forces them to participate in terrible acts such as mutilating the faces of others.
In addition, Russell’s efforts to attain the attention of the government finally proved successful on October 14th 2011 when President Barack Obama agreed to deploy approximately 100 combat-e quippe d U.S. troops to central Africa. Unfortunately Kony has become aware of our nation’s efforts to find and arrest him, and as a result has changed his tactics by frequently moving around Africa, making it more difficult for troops to find him. “In 2002, when the International Criminal Court first started their job Vincent Ferrer/The Mirror was to find and demand the Since dis- covering this arrest of the worlds worst criminals. information through Russell’s 2012 Although there are a lot of warvideo and other news organiza- lords, dictators, and murderers in tions, people have been joining the world the perversity of Kony’s forces to raise awareness in an at- crimes made him first on the courts tempt to stop Kony from continuing list,” said Russell in the video. the damage he is doing. Luis Moreno Ocampo, head
prosecutor for the International Criminal Court said Kony’s crimes are basically crimes against humanity, and war crimes committed against the civilian population including murder, sexual slavery, rapes and abductions and while the ICC did indict Kony in July of 2005, they have yet to formally arrest him. In the mean time, Jason Russell plans to continue his efforts by spreading the word and hopes to gain all of the attention possible. The next big step in the campaign will be on the night of April 20 For what people are calling Cover the Night, they will go out covering the streets and put up all of the posters and stickers they can in an attempt to gain more awareness because as Russell states in the video, unless he can get people to become more active in efforts to stop Kony, Obama is going to pull the troops from Africa if Kony can’t be found, stopped, and arrested by December 31, 2012 since he was initially hesitant to have the government get involved in the first place. Ocampo even said himself, “The only way to stop Kony is to show him we’re going to arrest [him].”
This piece was written prior to the misconduct, arrest and hospitalization of Jason Russell, filmmaker of Kony 2012.
The Vine
{The Vine}
Story By Olivia Snoddy
Photos Courtesy Of Celtic Nights
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
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Ireland's Dance and Song Brought to Fairfield
By Olivia Snoddy The Vine Assistant Editor
C
olored, flashing lights, fog and an energy-filled cast brought Ireland’s singing and dancing to life the evening of Friday, March 9, at the Quick Center for the Arts. Celtic Nights consists of singers, dancers and musicians from various cities in Ireland who perform tobring Irish culture and heritage to its American audience. The cast of singers —Peter Corry, Derek Collins, Naoise Stuart Kelly, Derek Ryan, Sarah Gannon and Colette Lennon— started the night off with individual introductions and a bit of Irish humor. They all said how excited they were to be in Fairfield and to be telling through song the stories of many Irish folk who immigrated to the States through Ellis Island. With these introductions they became one with the audience, each member of the audience learning something new every time one of them sang a tune. Every singer had numerous solos as well as a part in the several group sing-a-longs. The audience was taken to a new place, emotion and experience of the Irish people every eight minutes. With elaborate costumes and lighting, the stage was enhanced with an Irish feel. The group originally formed with the intention of delivering the spirit of Irish dance and music to audiences outside of Ireland. Both music and dance are significant players in Irish culture. Not only does Celtic Nights want to share Ireland's music and dance, but they also strive to do so while incorporating a greater story of the determined survival and faith of the Irish.
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"Celtic Nights" incorporates both music and dance to bring the spirit of Ireland across the seas to American audiences.
From classic Irish ballads such as “Danny Boy” and “May We Never Have to Say Goodbye” to well known lyrics of Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On” and U2’s “I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For,” the vocalists delivered emotion and Irish pride to the Quick Center stage. Accompanying the singers were several Irish instruments such as a fiddle, a flute and Ireland’s bagpipes, the uilleann pipes. All instruments were played by two men, Ben Gunnery and Stephen O’Connor. These two also introduced themselves before sharing their talents
with the audience. Much of their playing was upbeat traditional Irish music that allowed the audience to clap, yell and dance. Gunnery and O’Connor accompanied the vocalists and dancers several times throughout the performance. Traveling with the singers and musicians were six step dancers, Mariam Elbadri, Owen McAuley, Nawl Elbadri, Siobhan O’Connor, Tanya Baird and Gavin Boyle. With their fast-moving feet and legs, the dancers performed both hard shoe and soft shoe routines to live music by Gunnery and
Upcoming Events
By Olivia Snoddy The Vine Assistant Editor
On The Spot Improv, March 23-24 Fairfield University’s Improv Troupe, On the Spot, will share its award-winning comedy this upcoming weekend at the PepsiCo Theatre. The troupe is a group of Fairfield University students, who begin their performance “On the Spot,” taking suggestions from audience members. On the Spot features Alicia Bissonnnette, Mike Elwell, Casey Grambo, Michael Maio, Andrew Nealis, Pam Perrimon, and Gabi Tozzi, and is directed by Jeff Stanley. On the Spot improv has been bringing laughs to the Fairfield community and New York City since 1990. The troupe also provides workshops for local high school students. On the Spot has received awards from the annual Improv Boston Beanpot College Comedy Competition. The troupe is excited to share its weekly rehearsals and shows with the Fairfield community. Show
times are 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Friday, March 23, and 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Saturday, March 24. Tickets are $5 and are available at the door. Cash only. "Julius Caesar," March 25 The Acting Company, in association with The Gutherie Theatre, will deliver a modern interpretation of William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” on Sunday, March 25, at 6 p.m. at the Quick Center. The contemporary version will focus on the high energy of American politics, linking to today’s highstakes political rallies, protests, speeches and elections. The Acting Company has received several awards such as the Obie, Audelco, Los Angeles Critics Circle Award and a Tony Award for Excellence in Theatre. “Julius Caesar” is a part of the Company’s 39th National Tour and is a show that should not be missed. Come see the modern take on Shakespeare’s play full of pride, envy, honor and tragedy. Tickets: $40, $35, $30
Sarah Vowell Open Visions Forum Lecture, March 28 The Quick Center for the Arts will host Sarah Vowell, best-selling author, journalist, social commentator and essayist, next Wednesday, March 28, at 8 p.m. to continue the Open Visions Forum series. Her lecture is titled “Author’s Liberty as a Voice of Patriotic Radicalism.” Vowell is a New York Times best-selling author of six nonfiction books, an opinion essayist for The New York Times and a contributing editor for Public Radio International’s “This American Life.” Vowell has produced several commentaries and documentaries for Public Radio International. Vowell has appeared on many television programs such as “Late Show with David Letterman,” “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” and “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.” Vowell was also the voice of superhero Violet in the Pixar animated film “The Incredibles,” and she is the president of a nonprofit writing center for young adults in Brooklyn, NY. Tickets: $45
O’Connor as well as prerecorded tunes. By using the colored moving lights and fog machine, the audience became transfixed on their movements. All the performers alternated their talents in various solos and spotlights, yet their routines intertwined perfectly to complete the show. Their vocals, musical instruments and step dancing beats became synchronized. Bringing alive the theme of hardship experienced by Ireland’s people during time of immigration, the vocalists performed “Grandfather’s Immigrate Eyes” and “Island
of Hope, Island of Tears,” singing such lyrics as “leaving the old ways to be free.” At one point the dancers performed a cappella, allowing for the audience to listen attentively to the sound of the loud beats caused by the rhythm of the hard shoe. The dancers not only performed traditionally with their arms at their sides, but they also incorporated arm and body movement to add a more modern feel. Toward the end of the show, the energy-filled cast all sat at the edge of the stage to engage in traditional Irish tunes with the audience. While encouraging the audience to do the same, they sang songs like “Wild Rover,” “Danny Boy” and several other classics. “The show made my want to visit Ireland,” said Michael Franco ’13 who learned much about Irish culture and heritage. “The ending was great because of the traditional folklore songs that got everyone clapping and singing along. It brought the community together." Celtic Nights concluded their production with green, orange and white lighting to create Ireland’s flag while proclaiming a song all about coming home to sweet Ireland, with its “fences of stone and lands of green.” After the performance, the cast greeted audience members with smiles and handshakes in the foyer of the Quick Center. Their Irish brogues and smiles continued the happiness and connection created during the performance. From the start of the show with the cast's personalities, warmth and Irish spirit, to after the performance with a meet and greet session, Celtic Nights will be remembered by all who attended and became one with Irish culture that night.
Art Around Campus
Nicholas DiFazio/The Mirror
Artist: Allan D'Arcangelo Title: "Untitled," 1930 Location: Stairwell of DMH
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
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Your New Go-To Meal: Pasta with a twist
By Margot da Cunha Contributing Writer
S
paghetti and tomato sauce: a common go-to for the average college student. Every once in a while we decide to mix it up with some vodka or fettuccini sauce, but even with these alternatives, the meal gets a tad repetitive.
mind, I decided to take an alternative route and make a peanut based sauce. The sauce is simple, not too sweet, filling and delicious. This recipe is for peanut broccoli linguini. If you’re a fan of Thai food, this recipe is for you. It's a quick and simple dish with a sauce that will satisfy all of your Thai take-out needs.
With these profound thoughts on my
"recipe" | page 15
Margot da Cunha/The Mirror
This Thai-inspired dish of peanut broccoli linguini offers a great alternative to more traditional pasta dishes, without any added hassel.
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The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
From Print to Screen:
Hollywood turns to books for movie inspiration By Loan Le Executive Editor
F
riday’s release of “The Hunger Games” is so close that fans can practically taste Peeta’s Cinnamon Bakery bread and apple-smoked grosling. “The Hunger Games” follows Katniss Evergreen as she and her loved ones struggle to survive under the tyrannical power of the Capitol, an advanced and rich city that has 12 districts under its power. Gone is the America that we know now. Each year the Capitol holds an event called the Hunger Games where a boy and a girl from each district run is entered into a raffle. If picked, the contestants compete against each other, and only one can emerge as the victor and will reap the benefits of more food for
their family. In certain districts food is a commodity for their residents. Katniss volunteers herself as a tribute when her little sister is picked, and the first book covers her battle to survive in the 74th annual Hunger Games. The craze surrounding the March 23 release of the movie has been compared to those around the “Harry Potter” series and the “Twilight” movies. Naturally, one thing that these three movies have in common is that they are all based on books. Books have become the rough drafts of movie screenplays, and authors are evolving to become more like screenwriters. Movie adaptations of books have been happening for years. Many movie directors have been lauded for being faithful to the
books and their movies have achieved great success in the box office and the critics’ book. “Apocalypse Now,” written by postmodernist writer Joseph Conrad, follows a Vietnam War veteran who goes into Cambodia on an assassination scheme. The movie, starring Martin Sheen and directed by one of the famous screenwriters behind the cult classic “The Godfather” Francis Ford Coppola, impressed the audience and Hollywood. Veteran film critic Roger Ebert said in a review: “'Apocalypse Now' achieves greatness not by analyzing our ‘experience in Vietnam’, but by re-creating, in characters and images, something of that experience.” However, there is a doubleedged sword to a book-based movie’s success; it can also plummet at
the box office. “Green Lantern,” a film inspired by the “All-American Comics” character, received unfavorable reviews. Critics didn’t think the movie, which was about a man who comes to possess a ring that acts both as a weapon and a shield, was directed well. Even Ryan Reynolds, the title character, couldn’t save the film. Despite these two outcomes, one thing is sure: book followings usually make for a wider range of audience. More viewers equate to more revenue. In the list below, you’ll find other books that have been or will be adapted into movies. As for “The Hunger Games,” adapted from Suzanne Collins’ book, may all the odds be ever in the movie’s favor.
Kelsey Guerin
When you think of Abraham Lincoln, naturally you'll associate his name with vampires. Well, maybe not now - but when this movie comes out in June, you will! The 16th President of the United States finds out that vampires are invading his grounds, but he will have none of it. Vampires, meet Lincoln the slayer, a creation by Seth Grahame-Smith from his novel.
"The Perks of Being a Wallflower" Release Date: September 12, 2012 Notable actors: Logan Lerman, Emma Watson, Ezra Miller Because the movie is also directed by the book's author Stephen Chbosky, there probably won't be a problem with staying true to the original plotline. "Percy Jackson & the Olympians"
star Logan Lerman plays a shy and book-loving high school freshman who eventually strikes up an friendship with two seniors Sam (Emma Watson) and Patrick (Ezra Miller). It's a coming-of-age novel that explores drugs, sex, and other eccentric parts of life.
"Ender's Game" Release Date: March 15, 2013 Notable actors: Asa Butterfield, Harrison Ford, Abigail Breslin Right now, the release date seems to be far away, but it will surely be worth the wait. Science fiction fans credit this book as one of the most well-written dystopian novels in history. Its author, Orson Scott Card, remains an idol of sci-fi fans. "Ender's Game" follows a young genius named Andrew "Ender" Wiggins, played by "Hugo" actor Asa Butterfield, who is recruited by a military school in space and eventually trained to battle against alien invaders that are heading to earth. Some of the storyline will also include parts from "Ender's Shadow," which is the parallel novel to "Ender's Game."
"21 Jump Street" Is Worth the Revisit By Annemarie Veira Staff Writer
I
s the new movie “21 Jump Street” simply a reboot of the original series that ran from 1987-1991, starring the amazing Johnny Depp as baby-faced Tom Hanson? No, it isn’t completely. In what I like to call a refreshing take on the same concept, the film stars Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum as Schmidt and Jenko, two young looking cops assigned to Jump Street. In high school, Schmidt was a geek and wannabe Eminem. He
was bullied throughout high school by Jenko, who isn’t the smartest guy in the world but one of the best track stars. Schmidt and Jenko end up in the same police academy class. When Jenko realizes that he’s going to fail out of the academy, he sees that Schmidt is acing the written exams. Jenko then asks Schmidt if he would like to be friends. Throughout the academy, this “odd couple” bonds. Jenko’s grades go up and Schmidt gets into better physical shape with Jenko’s help. The pair thought that becoming cops was going to permanently
Newest Beats from StagsFlow By Matt Deane Contributing Writer
F
airfield's hip-hop/electro music blog is back again with another hit playlist. Check out www.Stagsflow.com to download all of the songs on the list. “The Don” by Nas, prod. Salaam Remi, Da Internz & Heavy D This is the first single off Nas’ upcoming album titled “Life Is Good.” With the state of hip-hop going a couple of different directions, it’s good to see Nas coming back hard with his signature sound. One of the best lyricists of all time, Nas kills it on this one. “Hollywood” by The Dean’s List, feat. Dani Ummel This is the newest leak off The Dean’s List's upcoming project “Generation X.” Everyone in the world was obsessed with The Dean’s List as soon as they heard “If I Die Young,” and I have a feeling people are going to love this one.
Photo Illustration by
"Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter" Release Date: June 22, 2012 Notable actors: Benjamin Walker, Rufus Sewell, Dominic Cooper
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make them cool for the rest of their lives, but both are disheartened when they get stuck working the beat at the local park on bike duty. While on their regular beat, Jenko messes up a drug bust because he fails to remember the Miranda Rights after catching the perp, and Jenko and Schmidt are transferred by their captain to the Jump Street program. Under Captain Dickson (Ice Cube), Jenko and Schmidt become Brad and Doug, a pair of brothers who are supposed to infiltrate a high school drug ring and identify the dealer and supplier of a new
“Number 16” by Wiz Khalifa Wiz pretty much took over the internet this week with the release of his latest mixtape “Taylor Allderdice,” crashing Datpiff and Livemixtapes.com several times. The project as a whole was pretty tight - not everything that was expected - but all around a success. This is a favorite track off the mixtape. The beat has a jazzy feel to it and Wiz’s flow is too smooth. “Numbers” by Logic Logic is arguably the most consistent young MC coming up in the game today. He releases hit after hit, and “Numbers” is no exception. This is the first official release off his new mixtape “Young Sinatra: Undeniable,” which is set to be released in the near future. “New Religion” by OnCue, prod. Party Supplies & Just Blaze OnCue teamed up with two legends of production for his new track “New Religion.” This track has been highly anticipated for a while, and Cuey never disappoints. He kills it here, once again displaying his dope, strong flow. This is one you should all check out.
synthetic drug that can easily kill anyone that consumes it. However, Jenko doesn’t remember which identity is his and ends up reversing them. Jenko then has to take the identity of the smart science prodigy, leaving Schmidt to be the athletic track star. Can you tell who was supposed to get which cover? Their first day of school is anything but smooth. Besides flipping their identities, the two are unsure how the high school food chain
“Dear Lord” by Tayyib Ali Tayyib just released his newest song “Dear Lord” this week, and it promptly shot up to number 1 on the charts on HotNewHipHop. com. In this track, Tayyib takes on a topic that’s not often discussed in the rap game: his faith. It’s impressive to see such a young MC willing to be an open book to his fans, and a ridiculously soulful Jahlil Beats instrumental doesn’t hurt either.
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"Playlist" | page 14
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
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StagsFlow Playlist
"Jump Street" Revisited Continued from page 13 works because the social groups and ideologies are now so different from their high school days (Jenko blames “Glee”). The boys make many attempts to crack the drug dealer Eric, hysterically portrayed by actor Dave Franco, but they all tend to fall short. One thing that I wish we could have seen more of was the establishment of the entire Jump Street force. There are some great characters I would love to know more about in the group. I also would have liked to see more character development for Jenko because he was a bit flat. As for the overall film itself, it keeps you laughing from the moment it begins and holds a decent storyline. The story was created by Jonah Hill and Michael Bacall, and
Continued from page 13 “Greyhound” by Swedish House Mafia Swedish House Mafia needs no introduction. This is the newest track from the Swedish EDM super producers, and of course it’s epic. Be prepared to hear this one played at pretty much every party you’re at from here on.
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The dysfunctional duo Schmidt and Jenko (Hill and Tatum) team up to take down a high school drug dealer. Hijinks ensue.
the screenplay written by Bacall is funny but a bit too free with the fbombs. The excessive swearing admittedly became a little distracting from the story at certain points in
the film. As for the cameos, I wasn’t disappointed. We get to see Holly Robinson Petee come back as Officer Judy Hoffs, and Johnny Depp
reprises his role of Tom Hanson, although it’s un-credited. If the opportunity arises, I would definitely see it again. It’s a laughfest worth the second trip.
The Catchiest Song Sweeping Across Campus By Jeannine Nocera Contributing Writer
O
ne of the catchiest songs ever, “Call Me Maybe,” has been taking the campus by storm. In my point of view, boys are in love with this song more than girls, and it is absolutely hilarious. The first time I heard about
this song was when about 15 of my Facebook friends had lines from the song as their statuses. With some of the catchiest lyrics and tune, Carley Rae Jepsen has a huge hit on her hands. You legitimately can’t walk around campus without someone humming along the tune and with good reason. If there is any song I would
want to be stuck in my head for a week straight, it would be this song. “Hey, I just met you and this crazy but here’s my number, so call me maybe,” Jepsen sings. This is probably one of the best lines in any song, not to mention possibly one of the greatest pick-up lines that anyone could (and should!)
use. Be sure to download the single on iTunes. Also make sure you check out the spoof video featuring Justin Bieber, Selena Gomez, Ashley Tisdale and Carlos Pena from Big Time Rush. The video is hilarious, and it is just begging for someone on campus to make their own parody.
“Video Games (Lana Del Rey Cover)” by Collin McLoughlin If you haven’t checked out any of Collin McLoughlin’s acoustic covers, you need to ASAP. StagsFlow has been supporting Collin for a long time; he’s ridiculously talented and has an amazing voice. He’s also amassed over seven million views on YouTube. This is his newest cover of Lana Del Rey’s “Video Games.” As always, it was entirely sung, produced, recorded and mastered by Collin himself. “Purple Swag (Jim-E Stack Bootleg)” by A$AP Rocky It wouldn’t be a StagsFlow playlist without a little A$AP thrown in there. Jim-E Stack took the track that started it all for A$AP Rocky and his crew, and then he put his own spin on it. This track was also released with an amazing version of the original Purple Swag video done by Jason Arno that is definitely worth a look.
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The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
The Vine
Peanut Broccoli Linguini Recipe Continued from page 11
I
became dangerously obsessed with Thai food in high school. Unfortunately, I am no longer willing to pick it up due to a car accident in the parking lot of my favorite Thai place, which resulted in a chipped yellow pole and a three thousand dollar dent in the trunk of my new Rav4. After that, I felt the parking lot had bad karma. Now, I don't have to worry about that. I’m glad to have discovered a recipe that can substitute for my tofu pad thai. The inspiration for the recipe came from a similar one from foodgawker.com, but with a few alterations I created this delicious, healthy and filling dinner. I made the dish with tofu as a protein, but that could easily be substituted with chicken, beef or shrimp for those of you who are not soy lovers. For the pasta: • 1/2 pound of linguini • 2 large heads of broccoli, cut into florets • 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced • 1 tablespoon of canola or peanut oil • 2 tablespoons of tamari or soy sauce • 1 teaspoon of ginger powder (or 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger) • Salt • Tofu or other protein
For the sauce: • 1/3 cup of natural peanut butter • 1/2 cup of hot water • 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar • 2 tablespoons of tamari or soy sauce • 2 tablespoons of molasses • 1/4-1/2 teaspoons of cayenne pepper (to taste) Cooking Directions: 1. Cook the pasta with salt in a large pot on high heat until al dente. 2. In a large saucepan, cook the broccoli in one tablespoon of oil for about two to four minutes. 3. Add the rest of the ingredients, stirring evenly over the broccoli, and cook until slightly softened but still crispy. 4. To make the sauce, stir together 1/4 cup of hot water and peanut butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the rest of the ingredients, including the remaining water. 5. Once these three components are prepared, combine them and then add the tofu or other protein. 6. Garnish with peanuts and scallions 7. Enjoy the variety of exciting flavors!
Page 15
ABC's Weekly Spy Thriller: "Missing" By Annemarie Veira Staff Writer
A
BC’s new drama “Missing” starring Ashley Judd as Rebecca Winstone is a cinematic experience on a weekly basis that echoes the style of Liam Neeson’s 2 0 0 8 f i l m
Contributed Photo
Judd is one tough mom in ABC's new spy thriller.
“Taken.” The pilot literally started off with a bang. While vacationing in Europe, Rebecca's husband Paul (Sean Bean) heads out to the car in front of their hotel, only to have it explode in the courtyard when he starts the vehicle, killing him and leaving Rebecca alone to take care of her 8-year-old son Michael. The plot then cuts to the present day. Michael (Nick Eversman) is eighteen, and he and his mother are on their morning run when he tells her that he applied and was accepted to a summer program for architecture in Rome. At first, Rebecca is hesitant to let him go, but Michael devises a special code so that he can text his mother to allow her to know that he’s okay and he loves her. For the first week, everything goes well. Michael checks in regularly with texts and photos from his travels. Then suddenly Michael stops with no contact. When the school program calls to let her know that Michael has missed classes and moved out of the dorm, Rebecca becomes extremely worried and quickly makes her way to Rome. Rebecca uses the pictures that her son has sent her to find his friend’s apartment. To her dismay, Rebecca finds Michael's belongings in the building, but everything looks too undisturbed.
She also notices food that has been sitting out for a few days. Her worry is confirmed when a gunman comes into the apartment, with a silencer at the ready. Rebecca fights and kills the gunman, and as a result, the CIA attempts to bring her in. It is then we find out that both Rebecca and her husband were highly skilled agents for the CIA prior to retirement in 2001. Rebecca begins to follow the leads to figure out what has happened to her son. Overall, the show started strong. The acting, writing, and pacing of the show kept me on the edge of my seat. Cinematically, this show looks like a movie, heightening the overall aesthetic of the show. As for the set up, I’m worried for the show's stamina. Thursday night’s ratings were decent, but with only 2.4 million viewers in the 18-49 year old age bracket, it doesn’t automatically make the show a hit. However, the show has potential. The plot is just beginning to unfold. Rebecca, herself, says that she will do what ever it takes to find her son. As the show develops, I think we’ll learn more about her past, which will help the show become more than just the bare bones of a mother trying to find her son. Only time will tell if this show proves to be a success.
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
Online
Coffee Break | 16
Send your thoughts to info@fairfieldmirror.com.
fairfieldmirror.com
Editor Loan Le» info@fairfieldmirror.com
His iPhone / Her BlackBerry
Joe McConville
SUDOKU •easy•
Over the past year as the iPhone Guy columnist for the Mirror, I have grown in many ways: as a writer, as a student and also as a young man. As your weekly columnist, I have striven to write about the issues that affect college students at Fairfield University from the perspective of a male. It has been a long journey for me as a columnist, and now my time has come to an end. Let this be my epitaph; the final thoughts of Joe McConville regarding what he has learned as the iPhone guy. Let me give you a bit of the background of the topic-selecting process. Each week, Blackberry girl and I would brainstorm and select a topic, then write from the general perspective of college students on this issue. We tried, and hopefully succeeded, in finding topics that would be interesting to our audience, which is for the most part college students. However, this also includes my mother, who never fails to give me her own view point and then forward it to everyone in my extended family to discuss during holidays. Nothing like talking to my grandmother about the clothes girls wear for nights out, while carving up the Thanksgiving turkey… For one, learning to write my columns between dealing with my sometimes brutal hangovers and playing detective to discover the events of the weekend is a life skill that, unlike many weekends here, I will not soon forget. But on a serious note, my opinion column is, to me, a position of great power. Though it may not seem like it to some, I consider it a leadership position amongst the students, one that I have been extremely proud of and one that has begun to define how I look at myself. The main goal of my opinion column was to sometimes piss people off and to invite change in both the administration and student body. On some columns I succeeded and others I
Out of Service
did not, seeking instead to make people laugh. I love making people laugh. Apparently its some skill I have - or so I’m told. If people remained complacent and did not voice their opinions in forms of media, our world could be drastically different. Had someone not gotten upset with the injustice of Britain in the 1770s, perhaps we would still be a colony and not a country whose ultimate ideals are based on the basic rights of free speech and the pursuit of one’s own happiness. Now before I am accused of comparing Fairfield to a tyrannical, oppressive government, let me say that this is by no means a dig on the administration or any connection to Fairfield. Please God, I can’t fit any more angry emails, meetings, and/or death looks into my already packed schedule of stupid core classes. My GPA and I have never wanted to get back to classes that relate to my major so badly. So I challenge of you, my readers, as well as my successor, to get into trouble. Make mistakes. Be light, be stupid, be young. You only live once. Make an impact on your school, community, your world. Do something! Write! Yell! Sing! Dance! Stand on your head! Whatever ignites the passion in you that is the desire to DO. Don’t let the fear of what is unknown stop you from doing something, for the fear can cut you deeper than anything the world can throw at you. “If you are distressed by anything external, the pain is not due to the thing itself; but by your estimation of it; and this you have the power to revoke at any moment.” These are the words of Marcus Aurelius and the final thoughts I leave you with. I thank you all for reading my columns over this year and helping me grow as an individual. Inspire change and don’t let life live you. - Sent from my iPhone
Megan Forbes
I hate getting all emotional, but I truly am sad that this is my last column with iPhone Guy. For the time that I’ve been BlackBerry Girl, I’ve truly learned a lot about Fairfield, writing, and most importantly, myself. Ever since I was a child, all I’ve wanted to do was write. For fun, I used to write stories. Coolest kid on the block, I know. But that’s all I’ve ever loved to do. Though I excelled in other subjects in school, English was the only thing that I enjoyed going to everyday. I didn’t have the most encouraging English teachers when I was in high school. Actually, English was my worst subject - always brought my whole average down. My teachers didn’t like the way I wrote, and I couldn’t seem to change my ways to fit their expectations. It was common to see AP exams and scribbles in red saying, “What are you trying to say?” and “Wrong format!” I started doubting my entire career path; maybe I wasn’t as great as my parents made me out to be. Luckily, I listened to people that knew me, the girl behind the pen, and knew I’d never be happy doing anything else but writing. These past four semesters have taught me a lot, but the thing that they have taught me the most is to not give up on your dreams, even if every person you know is standing with guns ready to shoot them down. Ready with reasons why you shouldn’t do what you love. The reasons why you shouldn’t are always weaker than the reasons why you should. No one’s major is better or worse than another person’s. As an English major, I get a lot of rap for the fact that the journalism field is dying out. I hear it enough. If I really wanted to, I could change my major, but obviously my devotion to writing and to my dreams has me strapped into this field. Stop making fun of me because
I’m not a business or science major. We’ll all be okay. Yes, iPhone Guy and I are funny at times. Who am I kidding? We’re funny all the time. But we really do care about our writing. We’ve received such a mix of positive and negative feedback for some of the topics we’ve written about, but that’s the beauty of being a writer. Freedom of speech! What other job allows you to type anything you feel, and not be told your wrong? It’s basically second best to being a weatherman, but I’m guessing that requires a lot of science. We love being able to speak for students that are upset, or really enjoy something at Fairfield. And we’ll take the heat for our words, knowing we can’t get in much trouble for saying the truth. I’ll part with some words of wisdom that I’ve learned through my years. And these are not only applicable to writing or school, but just life. Don’t hate on me for getting sappy. I know deep down, you’re all screaming in your mind that you love the words of encouragement I’m instilling in anyone that will listen. One of my favorite quotes of all time comes from Mr. Albert Einstein, a man of science: “Everyone is a genius, but if you judge a fish on its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing its stupid.” Every single one of us - no matter what race, religion, gender, or background we have - is born with a beautiful mind. We just tend to use it in different ways. In life, we keep on climbing till we get to the top, and although it feels like it’s a struggle, in the end, we have the view, and even better, the experience of the journey getting us there. Until we meet again, yours truly. - Sent from my BlackBerry
If you need some toilet entertainment, or need to practice your logic skills, or need something to do besides go on Facebook, take some time to play this game. Find the answer in next week’s issue!
Sports
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
Page 17
This Week in Sports The week that was in Fairfield Athletics
Sports Shorts
Women’s Lacrosse– The Stags broke their four game losing streak to New Hampshire with an 8-3 victory last Sunday. It was the fewest goals they had given up all season, with Katie Keenan making 12 saves in net. The Stags next host Lehigh at 3:30 on Wednesday. Softball- The Stags posted a 2-1 victory over 24th nationally ranked South Florida. Pitcher Rebecca Trott did not give up a hit in the last four innings of the contest. The Stags take on Stony Brook on Wednesday at 2 p.m. Women's Tennis- Sophomore Monica Yajima played apart in the Stags only two victories, as they fell 6-1 to Farleigh Dickinson. The team next travels to Sacred Heart on Wednesday. Baseball- Fairfield ended their stay at the Wingate Invitational with a 5-4 loss to Jacksonville University Sunday. The Stags had 13 hits, but also left 12 runners on base in the game. They next travel to CCSU on Wednesday.
New Sports Blog
What To Watch For
Wednesday- Men's Basketball vs RMU, 7 p.m. Thursday-Softball vs. UCONN, 3:30 p.m. Friday- No games.
Saturday- Women's Lacrosse vs. Rutgers, 3 p.m.; Men's Lacrosse vs. Hobart, 12 p.m. Sunday-Baseball at Iona, 12 p.m. Monday- Men's Golf at C&F Bank Men's Invitational Tuesday- Women's Tennis vs UMass, 2 p.m.
By The Numbers
15
Sophomore Men's Lacrosse Women's BasketKeith Matthews is ranked 16th ball senior Desiree had 15 points in the nation af- Pina had a team in men's bas- ter their 7-1 loss high 11 points in her final game, ketball's 69-54 to 12th ranked a 57-41 loss to victory over Colgate. Drexel in the NIT. Manhattan.
"All across the board they are amazing leaders and great kids to just be around....like we always say when we break the huddle: it's a family.” ~ Men's Lacrosse Head Coach Andy Copelan on his team.
Sports 3x5 Eric Bernsen Former Sports Editor
Ivey Speight Contributing Writer
John Tessitore Former Assistant Sports Editor
11
Quote of the Week
Make sure to check out our new Sports Blog with online-only coverage at sports.fairfieldmirror.com, as well as featured Sports videos.
Because they like to talk ... Sports.
16
Your 2011-2012 3x5 Columnists: Eric Bernsen, Ivey Speight and John Tessitore.
Scale of 1-10, how surped out was your spring break?
Two 15 seeds won in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Your bracket busted?
Highlight of Saint Patrick's day?
Peyton Manning reportedly will be signing to the Bronco's. Surprised?
Of One Direction's members: Zayn, Liam, Niall, Harry and Louis, which one's the biggest legend?
Unfortunately I didn't go on any legendary road trips, but I'll give it a 6 just based off surping with Doris Burke's brother-in-law at the casino HUHUHU.
Not in the greatest shape, but once the barked Belmont Bruins and surped Greyhounds lost my focus turned 100% on the CIT. Last MAAC team alive!
I could honestly have my own Top 10 on Sportscenter for this one. Have a couple battle wounds as a result, but the beee always sssssurvives.
Not at all, pretty sure of all people John Elway knows a real quarterback when he sees one. Tebow becomes a barked fullback for the Patriots and gets a ring ssss
HUHU havent heard enough to say 100%, but if they add a niiiiiiicked out drummer named niiiiiick he would take the top legend spot for sure. SSSSSSSSSSS.
Hate to say a 1. Only surpy night was hanging with the BEE and coming up with the MAAC pong league. Niagara beat Marist on the road :(.
I have 5 Elite 8 teams out. I followed the John T. advice and went for the barked upset. But just like John, that left me 5 bucks poorer and feeling I know nothing about BBALL.Waaaaah.
I spent my green day making coffee and filling the cooler for ESPN. Multi-million dollar organization but they got mad because I didn't know how to ration bananas. Nanananana.
Upgrading from the horse's shoe to the horse's head (that's a logo joke). Should feel bad for Tebow but I don't. Maybe T Swift will write a sad song for him.
I don't know who these people are. But anyways if anyone wants to join my band, it's called Red Hot Midgets. My hit song is "What's Love got to do With it" Live and learn baby.
HUHU pretty elite. Found an expensive jacket in my room with the letters engraved SSSSS for St. Patty's Day. Also went on a ssssurped roller coaster in Florida HUHUHUHU
Don't get me started! You're talking to a kid that had Mizzou in the championship, not to mention Creighton in the final four. My bracket is as PWND as Calhoun's arm in a sssling.
Had to be my man from Dunkin Donuts giving me 2 free chocolate donuts after dominating a bacon,egg, and KEGGED out sandwich. Or watching all the marching bands huuhuh.
LERON LANDRY BABY!!!!!!!! HERE COME THE JETS!! LOL AT THE GIANTS AND PATS. JETSNATION SSSSSSTAND UP!!
None. Prob a bunch of ssssssquids. I'd love to see a boy band with Bernsen, Ivey and Nick Lopresti. Now that would get the crowd goin'!
Sports
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
Stags' Successful Season Comes to a Close
Page 18
Contributed Photos
The women's basketball team comes together before a game this season. Senior leadership and chemistry were vital to the Stags during their competitive 2011-2012 season. By Ivey Speight Contributing Writer Even though the Fairfield University women's basketball team ended the season with two straight losses in the postseason and missed another opportunity to make the NCAA tournament, the Stags should only feel pride in their 2011-12 campaign. “If someone had said before the season started 'you can get 20 wins if you sign right here,' I probably would have signed,” fifth year head coach Joe Frager said. “24 is beyond what I thought we would be able to accomplish.” Not only did the squad win 24 games (one fewer than a program record), but they also had another appearance in the MAAC championship game and made the WNIT for only the second time in program history. “Everyone but three teams lose their last game of the year,” Frager said. “They just did a great job. The seniors went out on the right note, a lot of younger kids stepped up and played some major minutes for us this year so I'm tremendously proud of this group.” This season is a big step up for the program that Frager is developing. They got key contributions from players who did not have a big effect last year and they have the building blocks going into the future. Senior Desiree Pina, who was named to the All-MAAC second team, has seen the results of all the hard work that the group has put into the Stags: “When I first came here the program was starting to build but I think over the four years we built something more ... this program is definitely not stopping.” The senior class helped make this program develop. Pina, allMAAC first team selection Taryn Johnson '12, and captain Sarah Paulus '12 played in their last game as Stags, and Frager knows they have helped put the initial marks on the long road that is the women's basketball program. “All three of them have meant a lot to the university and the
program each in their own way,” Frager said. The group has seen 80 wins, two MAAC title games, two 20 win seasons, and two postseason appearances. "There's a lot of kids in college that don't come close to 80 wins and two postseason appearances,” Frager said. “I think they helped reinvigorate the program ... we're sorry to see them go but I know all three of them are going to go off to bigger and better things.” Pina, who was one of three Stags to score their 1,000th point this season, feels the same way about her coach. “Words can't really describe,” she said. “Of course he's a coach -there's going to be days when we can't stand each other- but I love the guy ... I learned so much from him and he really made me into the player that I am today.” She also became the 12th player in MAAC history to graduate with 1,200 points, 400 rebounds, 300 assists, 100 steals and 100 three pointers made. These seniors have helped make the program what it is today: a formidable competitor in the MAAC conference and a threat to Marist for a couple of titles. “The last banner that went up there was in 2001, and we're putting one up next year,” Frager said. “That's an 11 year hiatus so this is a really nice step forward and I think when that banner is up there next year they'll have a sense of pride.” Now the talk is about that next year. Fairfield will lose 43% of their scoring and two players who were named to all-conference teams. With a young team that will include three new recruits that have committed, Frager knows that next season will be about what got the program to where it is today: hard work. “There's a truckload of work to be done in the off-season,” he said. “We need to get physically stronger as a team...we got to get some multi-dimensional players out there, but the bar has been set and I think our younger kids want to do as well as they possibly can next year.”
Farewell to the Class of 2012
Contributed Photos
Seniors (from left to right) Desiree Pina, Laura Paulus, and Taryn Johnson, enjoyed a successful career.
Senior Statistics Overall Record: 80-49
Home Record: 39-16
Winning Seasons: 4
20-Win Seasons: 2
MAAC Tournament Final Appearances: 2
Post-Season Appearances: 2 MAAC Record 48-24
MAAC Player of the Week: 5
MAAC All-Academic: 3
1st and 2nd Team MAAC: 4
Sports
The Mirror | Week of March 21, 2012
Page 19
Matthews Leads Men's Basketball to Quarterfinals
Contributed Photo
Sophomore Keith Matthews assesses the court before passing the ball. The Stags host Robert Morris at Alumni Hall on Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the CIT Quarterfinals. By Eric Bernsen Former Sports Editor The youth of the Fairfield University Men’s Basketball team shined at Alumni Hall this past Sunday as the Stags defeated the Manhattan Jaspers 69-57 in the CIT match up. The sophomores excelled in the contest. Maurice Barrow had a breakout game with a strong teamleading 18-point performance, while Keith Matthews contributed 15 points off the bench. There was no lack of scoring
for either team in the first half, but the Stags came out of halftime with a strong defensive game plan. “It was a shoot out in the first half but we settled down on defense after halftime and just played hard,” said Matthews. The Stags were very fluid on offense and had great ball movement against the Jaspers with a team total of 22 assists. Fairfield’s defense was also impressive as they compiled 14 steals, forcing Manhattan to turn the ball over 19 times. "Start to finish I think the energy was fantastic. These guys have
been playing hard together for awhile and we just had to keep that in mind,” said Stags coach Sydney Johnson. Senior forward Rakim Sanders did a great job of sharing the ball and finding the open man as he had a team-leading seven assists against the familiar MAAC opponent. “We’ve been digging deep and sticking together. This is a game we love and we have plenty of people who are hungry and ready to step up,” said Sanders. Home court was a great ad-
vantage for the Stags at the oncampus site of Alumni Hall, which held a jam-packed and passionate crowd. Fairfield had an 8-2 run in the middle of the second half using swarming defense and capitalizing with fast break offense. “I definitely think the guys fed off the energy. You have to build momentum and I think home court played a big role in that today for us,” said Coach Johnson. Although the Stags are shorthanded and depleted with injuries in the back court, they are gelling at the right time as they continue
to advance in the CIT Tournament. Fairfield will once again play at Alumni Hall Wednesday night against Robert Morris at 7 p.m. The Colonials advanced to the quarterfinals thanks to a 69-51 victory against Toledo. Johnson recognizes the importance of advancing in this post season. “I’m thrilled to have to put on the caretaker role it’s been a great honor," he said. "Ed Cooley did a great job putting together this program, I’m proud of our guys and for Fairfield."
“Why Fairfield?” Student Video Contest Sponsored by the Office of Undergraduate Admission
SHARE YOUR FAIRFIELD PRIDE Show high school students why they should come to Fairfield.
Contest Highlights: • Create a video up to 4 minutes long • Work alone or with a group • Deadline Monday, April 16 • Judged by students and Admission counselors
Prizes: 1st Place: iPad(s) 2nd Place: $400 3rd Place: $200
Contest details at www.fairfield.edu/whyfairfield
Sports | 20 Stags Battle Under National Spotlight Online
New and improved sports blog. Online only coverage.
Week of March 21, 2012
fairfieldmirror.com
Sports Editor: Jen Calhoun » sports@fairfieldmirror.com
Men's Lacrosse gets national ranking after best start in program history
Contributed Photo
A Fairfield player attempts to win a faceoff against an opponent. Stags have been exceptional all season because of their teamwork and perserverance. By Ivey Speight Contributing Writer They have already made history. The Fairfield University Men's Lacrosse team is 7-1, off to the best start the program has seen, and recently had the longest win streak of any Stags lacrosse squad. But they still think they can do better. “We're still a work in progress,” fourth year head coach Andy Copelan said. “I wouldn't say we're hitting on all cylinders quite yet...when you get into the meat of your schedule and you play some very talented teams they're going to make you pay for those mistakes.” The Stags hit their first bump in the road as they picked up their first loss against #12 Colgate. However, as of today Fairfield is ranked 16th in the nation and have already gotten off to the best start in Fairfield history. “I'm proud to be a part of this team that's setting records,” Copelan said. On paper it looks like this team has the pieces in place to make that historic run that they have been waiting for. Last year the Stags finished the regular season with an average record of 8-8. However, they did end the
season by losing to an eventual Final Four team in Denver in the ECAC title game, which was the first time ever that the Stags made the final game. That alone shows that the Stags do have the talent in place. A big weakness for that squad however was at the faceoff X. In 2010, Fairfield won only 38 percent of their faceoffs. So far this year they have been victorious in over 68 percent. And it has been because of Marshall Johnson and Mike Roe. “I trust those guys a whole lot,” Copelan said. “It's nice to have faith in guys, one who are talented and two they have the ability to adjust.” Roe, a transfer from Drexel, has already won two ECAC Specialist of the Week awards and is third nationally in faceoff percentage. “It's huge,” senior goalkeeper Charlie Cipriano said. “Last year we lost five games by a goal. That all comes down to possessions, and for Mike to be winning them, we are getting the ball a lot more.” Roe is one of the many first year players on this squad that has made an immediate impact. The Stags recruiting class was ranked 20th in all of America and they have been helped by the strong senior leadership that this group
possesses. “I've never played on a team that has had seniors like this,” Roe said. “All across the board they are amazing leaders and great kids to just be around....like we always say when we break the huddle: it's a family.” The reigning ECAC goalkeeper of the year, Charlie Cipriano, is one of those seniors who have helped to make that adjustment easier. “Nothing against those other teams, we had awesome teams in the past but I feel that our seniors have matured a lot more," he said. Having the seniors helping the freshmen and getting contributions from every player on the roster shows how deep and close this team can be. “That's a sign of a great team,” Mike Roe said. “When someone is not having a great day everyone is there to support them and someone is there to step up.” They might be 16th in the country and supporting the best starting record ever, but this squad knows that they are not close to achieving their ultimate goal. “We're confident but we still know it's a long season and we have a lot of work to do,” Cipriano said. And if they keep focused and keep improving, they just might make more history.
The Nation's Top 20 1. Virginia 2. Johns Hopkins 3. Massachusetts 4. Cornell 5. Loyola 6. Maryland 7. Notre Dame 8. Denver 9. Syracuse 10. Duke 11. Lehigh 12. Colgate 13. Princeton 14. Villanova 15. North Carolina 16. FAIRFIELD 17. Penn State 18. Georgetown 19. Hofstra 20. Bucknell Scoring Margin Fairfield: T-15th
8-0 7-0 7-0 4-1 6-0 5-1 4-1 4-2 3-2 6-3 7-1 7-1 4-2 4-3 5-3 7-1 3-3 4-1 3-3 4-3 Scoring Defense Fairfield: 20th
Faceoff Win Percentage Fairfield: 2nd
Scoring Offense Fairfield: T-18th
Man-Down Defense Fairfield: 22nd
Stags Team Leaders: Goals: John Snellman
20
Assists: Colin McLinden
9
Points: John Snellman Brent Adams
22
Faceoff Win-Loss:
Shots:
Michael Roe
John Snellman
92-141 (.625)
62