11/11/2009

FREE | Take one Week of Nov. 11, 2009 | Vol. 35, Iss. 10

The

Mirror

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The Independent Student Newspaper of Fairfield University The Reflection of Fairfield

Harassment Complaints Threaten Future of The Mirror mons, Keith Connors and Chris Haliskoe, all seniors. The problem is that the harassment policy is not included in the funding agreement mutually agreed upon by The Mirror and Pellegrino’s office. While some feel that the student newspaper should be held to the University’s student standard, editors and advisers of The Mirror claim that subjecting an independent organization to any judicial or disciplinary action impedes on their ability to produce a student-run, non-biased publication.

“We take pride in being an independent news organization, that’s part of the campus community, and we feel that we need to remain independent to create an unbiased paper for students and to truly learn from the experiences we have, like this one,” Cleary stated in the meeting.

In The Mirror’s opinion, remaining independent would entail exceptions to policies in the student handbook to apPeter Caty/The Mirror propriately recognize the paper’s position Following up on the Coffee Break controversy, the administration and The Mirror met this week as an external, independent company conto discuss the fate of The Mirror as an independent paper on Fairfield’s campus. tracted by the University. They claim that including an independent organization under to evaluate if the organization was in violation individual student policy fails to recognize The of the University harassment policy.

By Meagan Flynn Mirror’s independence, as the publication is The meeting addressed claims from four Staff Writer students — Bradley Fay, Shawne Lomauro, Jen listed as an independent organization in the student handbook.

Martin and Kenni Nwajagu — that they were What started as an impromptu protest Pellegrino first suggested mediation bepersonally harassed by The Mirror’s printing has evolved into a tug of war between Univertween the students who filed the harassment of offensive language in the Oct. 1 “He Said” sity policy and freedom of expression. claims and The Mirror. column.

Although Mirror editors feel they were “Mediation was declined [by the students The meeting was attended by Dean Pelnot in violation of their contract with the who filed claims],” Pellegrino said. legrino, The Mirror faculty adviser Prof. Fran University, Dean of Students Tom Pellegrino “Under our harassment policy, a comSilverman, and members of the editorial staff, requested in a meeting on Monday that The plaint gets filed and comes to my office, and including Tom Cleary, Lily Norton, Chris SimMirror appear before a student conduct board The University’s fifth consecutive “Up Till Dawn” event was held Monday night, in which students were invited to write letters with the hope of rasing money for the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and Research Center.

According to Stephanie Stadig, who is one of the coordinators of the “Up Till Dawn” committee, they received approximately 1,800 letters from participating Fairfield students.

The committee has leftover letters if any students could not make the event and wanted to participate.

Melissa Mann/The Mirror

Fairfield Grad to Run for Governor Staff Report

Connecticut Lieutenant Governor Michael Fedele ‘80 announced on Monday that he will be running for the position of Connecticut Governor in the 2010 election.

His declaration came on the heels of current Governor M. Jodi Rell announcing that she will be retiring after her current term. According to an article in the Connecticut Post, Fedele expected Monday to receive Rell’s support in his campaign. However, Rell has publicly said she will wait

Index Opinion • Page 9 Features • Page 11 Arts & Entertainment • Page 13 Sports • Page 24

before deciding what Republican candidate to support.

In regards to Rell’s decision not to run again, Fedele said in the Post article, “This is something that we’ve all been expecting.”

“The governor has shared that with me. I’m proud to have served these four years, coming up with her. We still have a lot of work to do, and I look forward to completing this term with her.”

Fedele founded an IT company following his graduation from Fairfield and was added to Rell’s ticket in 2006.

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The Mirror | page 4

Vaccine Here, not for Long

By Mikaela Tierney Assistant News Editor The first supply of H1N1 vaccines arrived in the Health Center last week, but with very strict distribution guidelines making the vaccines unavailable to the majority of students and faculty.

Despite the three cases of swine flu and the 60 cases of flu-like symptoms reported so far, Fairfield is being very selective in its distribution of the vaccine. As outlined in a University message sent to all students and faculty, the Health Center will be issuing vaccines only to individuals with serious medical conditions.

“Students and faculty and staff members who do not have underlying health conditions are NOT eligible to be vaccinated with this initial limited supply,” the message outlined.

Some of the qualifying health conditions include asthma,

Inside This Week No Late Night Runs to Barone.

See page 5.

the policy is prescriptive as to what I need to do with those complaints ... That doesn’t speak to the issue of whether I think it’s appropriate or not appropriate to set up an advisory board.

As I read the policy, nside page I don’t The Mirror Responds: have the Read the letter to Dean Pellegrino and the changes discretion to send in the Code of Procedure. it somewhere else. And unless the students withdraw those complaints, they have a right to have those complaints processed in a timely fashion,” Pellegrino added.

One of Pellegrino’s suggestions to help remedy the situation is the creation of a advisory board for The Mirror. The advisory board would be composed of students, faculty, staff, and even lawyers concerned with freedom of expression issues, to name a few. Pellegrino envisions that the advisory board would review every issue, and insists that the board would in no way be in favor of prior censorship.

While The Mirror feels its advisement under Prof. Silverman (and previously under Dr. James Simon) has been sufficient, they are willing to add an advisory board if it is diverse, unbiased, approved by the editors, and unable to remove editors or writers from their positions, according to a letter from Cleary to Pellegrino in response to his requests to reevaluate advisement structure.

Honing in on Health Care

diabetes, blood disorders, and weakened immune systems.

The limited availability of vaccines became even more frustrating for many students when they heard about other universities making the vaccine more widely available.

Last week, Loyola University in New Orleans held a series of clinics that offered free H1N1 vaccines to all students.

Fordham University is holding clinics this week offering both H1N1 and season flu vaccines to its students as well.

Yet Fairfield, which “was ap-

Peter Caty/The Mirror

proved to receive and distribute H1N1 vaccine to members of the University community who

Vaccines | page 4

Check out our Web site!

Log onto fairfieldmirror.com

See page 3.

to check out more!

News

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

»Tipping Off

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In The News »Getting ready for

»Can’t Go Wrong with an Oldie

Registration

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Cooley

the Stag Sched this weekend on campus... in four easy steps

Attend: Stags Unleashed Many argue that Fairfield athletics lack the energy and the suspense of a major conference school. Think again this week. If you really consider yourself a member of the Red Sea, then you’ll be there for a big Friday doubleheader. First, at Lessing Field, men’s soccer preps for a MAAC Championship defense against Loyola. Later that night, Ed Cooley and men’s basketball challenge in-state rival Central Connecticut State. And did we mention Alumni Hall basketball on Sunday night?

Peter Caty/The Mirror

Honoring the Veterans In Our Community

A huge American flag is hung from the side of the Barone Campus Center Tuesday night as the University shows its support in honor of Veterans Day on Wednesday. Although it is a national holiday, tomorrow will not be a University holiday. Fairfield does offer free tuition to all veterans.

Stag, Lucas

Campus crime beat

By Dan Leitao Staff Writer Tuesday, Nov. 3 12:00 a.m. Internet service went down on campus. C&NS was notified and the issue was resolved.

9:36 a.m. A student reported that his car was struck by a stone by a lawn mower.

10:31 p.m. There was a theft of University property involving a student. They were referred to the Dean of Students.

Watch: Curb Your Enthusiasm on HBO Hands down the funniest show on television.

Larry David’s antics are at an all-time high this weekend, ranging from the mysterious murder of a graceful black swan/pet to a bathroom mishap and a painting of Jesus. Add in the original ‘Seinfeld’ cast as members of this season’s recurring players and you’ve got yourself a guaranteed pickme-up for a slow Sunday night of homework. After all, it’s not TV; it’s HBO.

Listen: The O’Jays, “Love Train”

Friday, Nov. 6 Wednesday, Nov. 4 2:55 p.m. A Prep student was referred to the Prep administration for improper driving.

3:05 p.m. Students reported non-students acting suspiciously and promoting a New York salon. The suspect was located and issued a CTW. Thursday, Nov. 5 12:06 p.m. An iPod charger was stolen from a Jeep.

3:33 p.m. A USB cable was stolen from a printer in the computer lab of the library.

Better Know a Stag

By Gabriella Tutino Who: Matt Petterson ‘10 Hometown: Carmel, NY Major: Film Minor: Music What are you passionate about?

I’m passionate about sharing a good story and making people laugh.

What’s your favorite Fairfield tradition?

It would’ve been Pres Ball had I ever gone to one of them.

What do you like most about being an R.A? The connection I make with the residents.

What are your top 3 favorite movies?

Pulp Fiction, Aladdin, Love Actually

2:20 p.m. A Prep student was referred to Prep administration for improper driving.

5:45 p.m. There was a theft in one of the dorms in Regis.

Let’s be honest, the world would be a better place if we all formed a “love train.” Or it will just remind you of Coors Light and Rocky Mountain freshness. Either way, rock out to this classic hit, maybe form a “Soul Train Line,” and have a great time bustin’ a move.

Monday, Nov. 9 10:43 a.m. A bookstore employee reported that he found a suspected bag of marijuana. After it tested to be marijuana, it was turned over to the Fairfield Police Department.

2:17 p.m. A wallet was reported stolen from a dining hall table in the BCC.

Read: the Mirror’s letter to Dean Pellegrino (p. 6) It has been a tumultous proces since Day One, but we feel that we are ready to move forward more conscientious and more mature. Better yet, we’re ready for change for the betterment of the paper, for the process, and most important, for the students. Think of it as a renewal. Hmm. That might be a good idea for a house ad.

By the Numbers 56,144

Views of the Mirror Web site in October.

1,401

Spam comments blocked on the Web site.

410

Facebook fans of The Mirror.

380

People subscribed to the Mirror mailing list.

210

Twitter followers of the Mirror.

News

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The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Honing In On Health Care

By Keri Harrison News Editor A national health care system. A possible 1.2 trillion dollars in costs because of the system. What exactly does this mean for college students?

The House of Representatives narrowly passed a version of the health care reform bill President Obama has been pushing for months on Saturday afternoon. With a 220-215 vote in favor of the Affordable Health Care for America Act, the bill will now go to Senate before it can be turned into a law.

Director of the Center of Academic Excellence and Associate Professor of Economics Larry Miners said of the health care bill, “It seems to me that it hopes to provide health insurance to those who don’t have it, which may include college students.”

However, he said he does not know of any provisions in the bill specifically directed to college students.

He continued to say that he “thinks it should have a public option,” in order to keep the cost of the bill low.

In a recent article by the Wall Street Journal, which was published days before the announcement out of the White House that the health care system was approved, it is stated that students’ health care is on the decline due to the recession shortage of jobs for them and their parents. According

to the article, more college students are relying on their university’s health facilities since they can receive insurance through the school rather than using a personal health insurance.

A universal health care system such as the one passed by the House would provide coverage to those citizens under 65, such as college students. However, with the astronomical price tag on the insurance bill and the current state of the economy, it is still unsure whether or not this is a positive reform for current college students.

Fairfield students have the option at the beginning of the school year whether or not they want to enroll in the University health care plan with Gallagher Koster Insurance, which costs $995, or they can override it if they have a private insurance policy with their family. The University maintains, however, that all students must be covered by some sort of insurance.

According to Interim Director of the Health Center Susan Birge, 432 students are currently on the University health insurance, which has increased in the past few years due to the economy.

She said that most Fairfield students who are covered by their parents’ insurance may be able to extend coverage until their mid-20s, when

Fairfield rated not sustainable

Contributed Photo

President Obama addressed the media on Saturday afternoon in the Rose Garden after the annoucement that the House narrowly passed a national health care reform bill. they would then have to find their own personal insurance.

Senior Allyson Wuensch said of the impact the universal health insurance will have on college students, “When we graduate, it would be good to know that there is coverage available.”

“But once we are in the job market, it will place a greater financial burden on us and currently on our parents,” she said.

was raised as a hurdle at the meeting.”

According to Weitzer, there will be more discussions throughout the year concerning community involvement, A meeting was held last Monday vocational explorations, civic engagemorning to discuss implementing the ment, and discernment. strategic plan this year, at the center of “The point of these conversations,” which is a student-focused developWeitzer said, “is to make sure that the mental model. students, faculty and staff are engaged Nearly 200 members from variin an ongoing dialogue about the plan, ous departments and divisions were in what progress we are making, what attendance for the first of the four-part kinds of challenges we are facing as the series of strategic conversations on plan develops, and how members of the building a community at Fairfield. campus community can stay involved.”

They discussed what is meant Students, on the other hand, are when using the term “comnot very enthused with the idea. The munity,” what issues may majority even find it to be a bit redunarise in developing the kind dant, and over-powering. of community in“I feel that we already have that tended on campus, type of structure already,” said Alison and how it will Decker ‘10. help students ma“We have too much ture during their structure time at Fairfield. already, “Our hope which kind is that over the of pulls course of a fourapart; we year undergraducan’t be ate career, our our own students are person. guided by an We can’t intentional strucgrow if they ture that the Unicontinue to versity has put in baby us.” place,” said ExecuMirror File Photo As part of the University’s Strategic Building meetings, the committee plans on spending Protive Vice President more effort on community building for the students, staff, and faculty at Fairfield. More gression William Weitzer in focus will be placed on community, besides just the living and learning centers on camin the plan an e-mail. pus such as the Ignation Residential College in Loyola Hall. over time He said the will shape University wants for bringing students together, concerns what decisions will be made. to create a structure “that will give stuTalks will continue to discuss were still present. dents the best education possible and comminity building in the next three “Last year, in the response of the strengthen them as individuals, helping meetings. economic recession … [we] came to the them to mature and to discover their Weitzer said, “Certainly, building difficult decision that we had to make vocational direction in life.” community-and continuing to reflect significant budgetary reductions,” said While decisions were not made on what kind of community we are and Weitzer. during the meeting, community memwhat would hope to be-is essential if we “I think we all know that this was a bers had the opportunity to hold an want Fairfield to reach its potential.” blow for the community, and that issue open discussion as to what direction the strategic plan is heading in. This presented the opportunity for the community to hear various views.

“The strategic plan is an ongoing work-in-progress,” said Weitzer. “We want it to be flexible and responsive to the input of our faculty and staff — and the responses of the students.”

Those in attendance were asked to consider what is currently being done to develop a sense of community among students. While living and learning communities, such as the Ignatian Residential College and the Just-Us Residential College, were praised

Fairfield News Briefs

By Mikaela Tierney Assistant News Editor

Strategic Plan Gives Students Structure

By Deanna Mitchell Staff Writer

In the Know Grade C. That is the official grade given to the University on the College Sustainability Report Card, which is given to colleges nationally by the Sustainable Endowments Institute.

According to the Green Report Card Web site, the report analyzes 332 universities nationwide on how green their campuses are and how sustainable levels remain in higher education despite recent budget cuts and rising energy costs.

The report breaks down Fairfield’s grade into separate categories: Administration: C Climate change and energy: C Food and recycling: B Green building: D Student involvement: B Transportation: C Endowment transparency: B Investment priorities: C Shareholder engagement: F According to the online report, the University allowed the full surveys, filled out by Assistant Vice President and Director of Facilities Management David Frassinelli in July, to be viewed online.

The University’s grade has increased from the last year, for Fairfield received a grade of C- in 2008.

Online Registration In an effort to green the University community further, registration at Fairfield this year is completely online, from the course booklets to the actual registration.

For the first time, the University has not printed out any copies of the course booklets, which outline all the classes available for the upcoming semester and their time frames.

Although most students understand why the University has made this decision to be more green, some find the booklet only being online a bit of a hassle, while others think it’s a great idea.

» Opinion| page 10 Professor Awarded Nursing professor Dr. Sheila Carey Grossman was awarded the 2009 Josephine Dolan Award by the Connecticut Nurses’ Association. Considered the highest award in nursing education, it is the most prestigious nursing award in the state.

The award is intended “to honor individuals or organizations that have made contributions in the areas of practice, education, research, administration, political action and/or service,” according to a Fairfield University press release.

Grossman was selected because of her numerous written works, in addition to her undergraduate and graduate curriculums concerning a variety of nursing topics.

Plouffe speech at the University Obama’s decision to not “follow the old playbook” during the 2008 elections, as campaign manager David Plouffe said his Open Vision speech Wednesday night at Fairfield , was arguably his best decision from the entire campaign.

Plouffe’s novel strategy of creating his own approach to campaigning for Obama was likely the reason behind Obama’s current presidency.

In his speech Plouffe said, “We were seen as an extremely strategic campaign.”

This image was realistic and appropriate, he acknowledges.

“We took risks,” he said. “But they worked out, so they don’t seem like risks anymore.”

Check out fairfieldmirror.com for the full article on Plouffe’s visit to Fairfield.

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

News

Fairfield Named Number One

By Dan Leitao Staff Writer Fairfield is the No. 1 town in Connecticut.

After years of finishing in the top few towns, Fairfield has taken first place in Connecticut Magazine’s “Rating the Towns” article on which Connecticut town is the best place to live.

The system rates 169 Connecticut cities and towns by economy, leisure, crime, education and cost of living by breaking them up into different population-size groups.

Fairfield came in first for public education, second for crime and economy, fourth for leisure, and fifteenth for cost of living, which gave it the push Fairfield needed to surpass last year’s winner,

Fairfield By the Numbers Population...................57,340 Crime rate.......................4.88 SAT score......................1666 Median house.........$555,000 Equalized mill rate.......11.51 Library per capita.......$67.26 PIC points........................147 Voter turnout.............85.28%

Greenwich, which scored a mere two points lower.

So did the University and its students have any effect on the results?

Fairfield does gain an advantage by having Fairfield University, for the leisure secNumbers are compiled by tion takes into account local Connecticut Magazine. colleges and universities. It also to have such strained townhelped Fairfield that the Quick Center hosts many leisure events. gown relations, Connecticut Magazine was able to avoid Luckily for the town having such relations negaof Fairfield, the majority of tively affect Fairfield’s rating. crimes that Fairfield students Sophomore Emily Kupcommit do not fall in the per said on the town win, “I categories of murder, rape, think Fairfield University robbery, aggravated assault, would help because its a wellburglary, or motor-vehicle respected University that theft, which factor into the crime category. Therefore, the enriches the community, emphasizing quality education. raid at Bravo will not hurt the A college town is a positive town of Fairfield in its pursuit atmosphere.” to be crowned number one.

For a town that is known

Page 4

Vaccines Fall Short

Continued from page 1 fall within the approved target populations”, according to the University message, still has yet to provide information to the University community about a larger availability of vaccines.

“Everyone should be able to be immunized. If someone’s really scared [about contracting the flu], they should be able to, not be restricted by campus,” said Jessica Soyer ‘13.

Chelsea Pabon ‘12 agreed. “They definitely should [have more vaccines available], especially on campus; people are dropping like flies, and it’s affecting their schoolwork,” she said.

It is still unknown to the greater University community when the next supply of H1N1 will be arriving, although in the University message the health center said, “As [the] vaccine becomes more widely available in the coming weeks, community members wishing to be vaccinated should have access to the vaccine at Fairfield University.” It also explained that students will be able to secure vaccines from either the Fairfield health department or from their own physician.

Yet even once the H1N1 vaccines become available, not all students will be lining up to be vaccinated.

“I feel like they shouldn’t [vaccinate students] — half the time vaccines don’t even work,” said Daniel Malone ‘13.

Peter Lyons ‘13 agreed, saying, “I think people should not get the vaccine. People have a better chance of getting the virus when you bring it into contact with them.”

“I don’t want the vaccine,” said Sam Goodnow ‘13. “I take other precautions.”

Such precautions, such as rigorous hand-washing, use of hand sanitizers, and covering your mouth when you cough, are all important “proactive steps to minimize exposure to the flu and other illnesses,” the Health Center message noted.

Some students question the safety of the vaccine. Because the vaccine was produced so quickly to meet national demands, many worry that it has not been through the same precautionary examinations as the regular seasonal flu vaccine or others like it.

Yet despite such fears, the Centers for Disease Control maintain that the vaccine is just as safe as a regular seasonal flu vaccineas long as it’s available to those who want it.

The Mirror Under Scrutiny Continued from page 1 Still, concern remains that coupling the creation of an advisory board with the request for The Mirror to appear before a student conduct board is counter-productive. An advisory board would be sufficient to guarantee common decency in The Mirror while still allowing the publication to remain independent, insists Silverman.

“Bringing a newspaper before a student conduct board is that same slippery slope of how students could quickly catch on to this being a tactic, that they find something in the paper they don’t agree with,” said Silverman.

“What if someone ran a comment about anti-abortion or gay marriage and people take offense. They could say that constituted hate speech against a certain group,” she said.

“The newspaper’s function is to provide robust debate within the confines of common decency, which they’re working on right now,” Silverman added.

Silverman also added that from experience, the typical role of an advisory board is not constant, as Pellegrino is suggesting. It is generally called to hear complaints about content placed to the paper, and that allowing a constant advisory board would be a huge concession to The Mirror. If this were to take place, both she and the editorial staff find a student conduct hearing unnecessary.

Decisions to be made will be based on policy and contract.

“Let’s first keep in mind that we’re on a private campus, not a public campus. We’re not talking about Constitutional protections. We’re talking about protections that we come to an agreement by contract, by policy ... Freedom of expression has some more qualifications to it, but it’s basically what we wanted to make of it as a University,” said Pellegrino.

“The four students have expressed to me that they’re looking to the University to make a determination as to whether the harassment policy was violated. The student conduct board is the mechanism of the University,” he added.

However, Simmons noted that the mutual funding agreement between The Mirror and the University suggests that this would not be the correct course of action.

“Our funding agreement also has language that excludes the University from being liable for anything we print, but if they’re able to come in and sanction us for something we print, aren’t you taking some of that responsibility?” Simmons asked.

The funding agreement says, “By this agreement, The Mirror releases Fairfield University from any claims or suits brought against it by any third parties arising out of its operations as a newspaper and/or its use of Fairfield University premises.”

Given that Pellegrino stated that the student conduct board would be a “mechanism of the University,” subjecting the organization to a student conduct board may be seen as both unnecessary and in violation of this agreement.

Pellegrino said he is in the tough position of trying to honor the concerns of two opposing groups. Although the students who filed the claims share similar views, Jen Martin ‘10 says that her decision to file the claim was an individual decision.

“I would like The Mirror to be held accountable for a breach of University policy,” said Martin.

“Just as an independent newspaper has first amendment rights, so do individuals. We send them to conduct boards as well for breach of the very same policy. I do not want The Mirror to lose its independence as an organization. After many talks with administration, it is clear that this is no one’s intention,” continued Martin.

“The Mirror is published as ‘The Independent Student Newspaper of Fairfield University.’ What does it say about and do for our school if we start making exceptions to our policy?” she added.

The other three students who filed claims were unable to be reached for comment.

Also addressed in Monday’s meeting was the shared

feeling by the editorial staff that a public relations mistake has been made on behalf of the Dean of Students Office. A University-wide e-mail was sent on Nov. 5 that discussed the future of The Mirror in terms of both the funding agreement and the harassment policy. Some felt the wording was too vague for a reader not involved in the situation.

The message stated, “As the University signatory on that agreement, Associate Vice President and Dean of Students, Dr. Thomas Pellegrino, advised The Mirror in writing that the content contained in various sections of the Coffee Break page were in violation of the ethical and procedural guidelines of the current funding agreement. As such, the current funding agreement is null and void.”

However, as The Mirror had agreed to submit revisions regarding the Code of Procedure (especially for the Coffee Break section), a public message articulating monitoring of content by the editorial staff, and an evaluation of advisement procedures by Nov. 9, the Nov. 5 University message seemed to the editors both premature and misleading of the current situation.

The Mirror has met the requests of Pellegrino in assessing many procedural aspects of the publication, as outlined in Cleary’s response letter to Pellegrino. Cleary hopes that the campus community recognizes the unprecedented steps The Mirror has made to remedy its mistakes.

“I think the Code of Procedure is on the Web site. I would hope that people would know that we have that, that we follow this code of procedure, and we live by that code. Now we saw that there were holes in the code, we want to go back and fix those holes on our own, and make sure that instances like these don’t happen again,” said Cleary.

As The Mirror has never had claims officially filed against them in this manner, decisions made on this issue will be monumental for the University in determining just how independent an independent newspaper can really be in a private Jesuit institution.

News

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Page 5

No Late Night Runs to Barone

By Sasha Campbell Staff Writer Sophomores Brendan Sarpu and Anthony Sbona compile their money to pay for the large pizza and cheesy bread that they have just ordered from Domino’s. Their stomachs grumble as they await the arrival of their late night snack.

Although they already ate dinner at 7:15 pm, they are still awake and hungry at midnight due to the combination of a late night of homework and the early dinner at Barone Dining Hall.

Sarpu and Sbona are not the only college students who utilize the delivery services of Domino’s and other off-campus options. Many students find themselves awake and hungry late at night due to the early dinner that they are forced to have.

Barone, the only dining hall on campus, is only open until 7:30 p.m, an early closing time considering the late bedtime of most college students. This time is also extremely early compared to dining halls on other campuses.

Although The Stag, the on-campus snack bar, is open until 9:00 p.m., this time also poses a problem for many people. Students who take late afternoon classes that end at 6:15 or 6:45 p.m., followed by night turbo classes from 7:00-9:30 p.m., may lose any chance to eat a full dinner on campus.

“As a swimmer, we get out of practice and have to rush to get to dinner,” Sarpu said. “It sucks to have to hurry to get to dinner, and then rush while you eat.”

He also noted that the rugby team has similar problems because their practices end later in the evening as well.

In regards to the quality of the food served just before closing, Sbona said, “They say they close at 7:30, but try getting decent food at 7:15.”

Many students who wait until the last possible moment to eat dinner at Barone find the quality of the food is not as good as the food served earlier on in the evening.

General Manager of the University’s Sodexo Catering Service Bryan Davis, says the dining hall hours at Barone are determined by average student count at the later hours of

operation.

“Two years ago we were open until 8:00 p.m.,” Davis said. “We measured traffic flow, meaning student count at that later hour and the evidence showed us there wasn’t a need to run it that late.”

Other universities acknowledge that college students need longer, more flexible hours for their dining services to accommodate the schedules of everyone who needs an oncampus meal.

Boston College, although larger than Fairfield, has seven on-campus dining halls. Three of those dining halls are open until 2 a.m. every day, two are open during lunch hours, one is open during dinner hours, and one is open

from early morning to just after dinner, according to Megan Tincher, a junior at Boston College.

Loyola College in Maryland, another Jesuit school closer to the size of Fairfield, has two on campus dining halls. One of these dining halls is open until midnight every day, and the other is open until 10 p.m. There is also an on-campus market that is open until 2 a.m. everyday, according to Christine O’Sullivan, a junior at Loyola College in Maryland.

If Fairfield students miss their opportunity to eat dinner in Barone their options are either The Stag or The Levee. The Stag requires dining dollars or cash, while The Levee only accepts StagBucks or cash.

The Stag and the Levee are not buffet style, like Barone, so they both require that you pay for each individual piece of food that you want.

“You blow through $50 at The Stag when you go just a couple of times,” Sbona said. “It’s hard to get a full meal there for under $10.”

Peter Caty/The Mirror Freshmen and sophomores, who live in dorms, do not have the ability to make their own meals and do not have cars on campus. This leaves them with only one option for late night cravings: ordering out. The only restaurants that deliver are pizza places, Chinese food, and other greasy, unhealthy food. Because of this, students are not only spending excess money on food but are also indulging in unhealthy eating habits.

Barone is the one dining hall on campus, providing many students with all of their meals throughout the week.

According to students, the amount of money spent with each swipe from Sonia or Mary should provide students with high quality food, as well as flexible, longer hours to accommodate the rigorous schedules of college students.

News

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Page 7

The Mirror’s response to Dean Pellegrino November 9, 2010 Dr. Thomas Pellegrino Dean of Students Fairfield University Response to Oct. 9 Letter Re. Mirror Funding Agreement 2009-10 Dean Pellegrino, It is the belief of myself, along with the other managers of the Fairfield Mirror, that the publication of the “FML Text” column in Volume 35, Issue 4 and the “He Said” column in the Volume 35, Issue 5 did comply with the standards set in the Code of Ethics and Code of Procedure, which are incorporated into the Mirror Funding Agreement for the Academic year 2009-2010.

Therefore we believe we did not violate the contract and therefore the agreement should not be declared null and void. We are still willing to comply with the three actions requested in the Oct. 9 letter, as a sign that we have truly learned from this experience and want to move forward and use this opportunity to make our newspaper stronger.

The following are reasons why we believe we did not violate the contract: No section of the Ethics Code or Code of Procedure ties the Mirror to the student handbook. Therefore any alleged violation of the student code relating to sexual harassment would not result in the contract being broken. As an independent organization, The Mirror should not be held to any student conduct codes or be subject to disciplinary proceedings. The internal Ethics Code/Code of Procedure applies to The Mirror, therefore there is no reason for the student codes to apply.

The Fairfield Mirror Code of Ethics section on Sexual Harassment applies directly to inneroffice relationships and the conduct of staff with their peers. It has no influence on the print product and therefore does not apply.

According to the Code of Procedure, The Mirror follows the guidelines laid forth in the AP Stylebook in regards to profanity. This style applies directly to news stories when profanity and obscenity is used in an article. The AP Stylebook provides guidelines only for how to use quotations that include profanity or objectionable content. In addition, the Code of Procedure allows leeway for Mirror editors to deviate from the AP Style. “The Mirror reserves the right to change its own style in regards to profanity and libelous material, but should strive to follow the guidelines of AP style even in a deviation.” This is the normal procedure for newspapers. I.E. The New York Times uses AP Style guidelines, but has a completely separate style guide that at times goes against AP Style.

The Mirror does not apply AP Style obscenity guidelines to columns, as that does not apply. Instead, The Mirror follows its own procedure in terms of columns. In that case, the code of procedure states: “The Mirror, as a strong proponent of the First Amendment of the Constitution, does not believe nor condone censorship. As stated, however, editors reserve the right to edit an individual’s work– whether objective or subjective pieces – but content shall generally not be removed simply because of a difference of opinion.”

The Mirror did follow its procedure for editing, which states: At all times at least three editors must read an article (the editor in chief, managing editor, and section editor). There were three prior readers to the article making it to print. Tom Cleary, Chris Simmons, Lily Norton.

Per our release of Oct. 7 and statements made in the Oct. 7 issue, we are going to make changes to our code of procedure. Those changes can be seen in attached document. Clearly we view this as a learning experience and feel that it is our responsibility to change our code of procedure to better represent us and to avoid further offensive language in our newspaper.

Included in that code of procedure is a stronger emphasis on the editorial process regarding the He Said/She Said portion of the newspaper.

In regards to the evaluation of the advisement structure of The Mirror we believe that the current structure has been extremely successful. The Mirror has thrived under the advisement of Dr. James Simon and Prof. Fran Silverman. We have won multiple awards with the current structure. Also the current structure follows all the guidelines laid out by the College Media Advisors (CMA) organization (see attached document). However, we have found that the addition of an advisory board could be beneficial if organized with the proper intent and created by the newspaper staff itself. An advisement board must meet the following criteria: Members of the advisory board must be approved by the editor in chief, with advice from his/her staff.

The advisory board should be a diverse group and could include, professional journalists, business professionals (i.e. lawyers, accountants), alumni, ex officio administrators faculty, and students and it should include an attorney specializing in freedom of expression issues There cannot be any “functioning administrators” on the board, because they have dual and conflicting roles. For example, a member of the administration would have to abide by the University’s contract with the paper, but as a member of an advisory board, their role would be to arbitrate whether a contract has been violated and thus can’t be objective.

Because The Mirror strives for unbiased coverage, there should be no students on the board with direct ties to any club or organization (i.e. FUSA or an athletic team).

The advisory board will not be able to overrule the editor in chief. Any statements from the board will be suggestions to the editor in chief. They will have no editorial power, but the Mirror will publish any reports by the advisory board in its newspaper in a timely manner.

The current process of selecting editors and paid positions will be followed. The advisory board may not add or remove any editors, including the editor in chief or the advisor.

In conclusion, The Mirror takes pride in its role as an independent news organization that is a major part of the University community. Any further oversight by the University, without the consent of the newspaper staff, i.e. the creation of an advisory board that does not follow these aforementioned guidelines, would hinder our ability to produce an unbiased product created by students. We have taken away a lot from this process and have had the opportunity to truly reflect on our role in the campus community and believe that we will be able to move forward from this point and become an even stronger organization.

Sincerely,

Tom Cleary Editor in Chief Fairfield Mirror

Addendum to The Mirror’s Code of Procedure Revised Code of Procedure (To be inserted after the RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE REPORTER section) USE OF OFFENSIVE/DIVISIVE LANGUAGE

The Mirror strives to serve as a voice for the University and the surrounding community. Therefore the columns written in the newspaper should serve the purpose of providing diverse opinions and creating an atmosphere of free thinking and discussion. In that role, The Mirror must closely monitor the language used in the newspaper. Music that could be considered offensive, obscene or divisive should not be used. While it is important to provide a voice to students and others who wish to publish a column in the newspaper, it is also important to realize the effect that the said column could have on the community.

Therefore language in columns should not be harassing or threatening. It should not include any words that can be considered racist, sexist or homophonic. The language should not be directed at a person or group based on race, color, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, veteran’s status, age, or association with differing persons that could result in emotional or physical harm, embarrassment or fear of one’s personal safety.

The editors of The Mirror will determine whether or not language meets the aforementioned criteria.

In terms of the “He Said/She Said” section of the newspaper, it is important for the writers to remember that while the columns are satirical, it is also important for the language to not be offensive. The columns should reflect the attitudes of the University community in a humorous way, but not cross the line of decency. The “He Said/She Said” columns are a traditional part of the newspaper and provide the important goal of humor and entertainment that is part of the Mirror’s role in the community. However, The Mirror must be careful to remember that the columns can be humorous and satirical, with out sending out a negative message or negative image of the newspaper.

For editing guidelines for columns, see the Review and Editing Process section.

EDITING OF COLUMNS (To be added to the REVIEW AND EDITING PROCESS section)

Our journalism advisers state that it is common for news organization to modify AP guidelines to meet local conditions. In terms of Mirror columns, AP style provides some useful guidance on handling obscenity and profanity. Ultimately The Mirror editors will decide whether a column should be printed based on its worth to the newspaper and whether it meets The Mirror’s Code of Procedure regarding the Use of Offensive/Divisive Language.

Columns should not be edited to change the opinions of the writer. Instead, if a column is deemed to be offensive, the editor (s) should contact the writer and ask for a revised column that does not use offensive language. If that revised column does not meet the guidelines set forth by the Code of Procedure, the column will not be printed in the newspaper.

In terms of columns that are meant to be humorous, such as “He Said/She Said” editors must look more carefully at the content to ensure that it does not offend the community.

The section will be monitored by a “Coffee Break” editor appointed by the Editor in Chief, whose role will be to ensure that all content in the columns meets the Mirror’s code of procedure.

That editor will have the first read of the column and read it both for content and to check it with the Code of Procedure. From that point normal editing rules will apply.

The word of the day is:

Renewal You don’t have to ask a resident Jesuit to figure out that ‘The Mirror’ has been a staple at Fairfield for a while now. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for improvement, for growth, and for change - which is why we’ve spent countless hours over the past few months on a print and online redesign. But it really is more than a cool new logo and a few different fonts; it is a redefining of everything we do, from our day-to-day reporting to the way we represent your voice in print.

Our new look: it’s bold, it’s exciting, but, most importantly it’s a renewal.

The Mirror THe REFLECTION of Fairfield

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Online What do you think about swine flu on campus? Send your thoughts to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com.

Editor Veronica Florentino »opinion@fairfieldmirror.com

fairfieldmirror.com

editorial

Opinion | 9

Notable and Quotable

Tom Cleary | Editor in Chief Lily Norton | Executive Editor Chris Simmons | Managing Editor Veronica Florentino | Commentary Editor

“That doesn't speak to the issue of whether I think it's appropriate or not appropriate to

Independence at Risk

where else. And unless the students withdraw those complaints they have a right to have

The Mirror has always striven to provide balanced, impartial coverage as the independent student newspaper of Fairfield. Now, after four students filed harassment complaints, the entire notion of The Mirror as an independent organization is in jeopardy.

We have always thought of ourselves as an outside organization contracted by the University. We are registered with the Connecticut Secretary of State and file taxes.

We take no money from student fees, unlike other student organizations. The University provides us with an office and funds in exchange for 3,000 issues a week.

If we are truly independent, as the school lists us in its handbook, we should not be held to the school's policies. Under our funding agreement with the University, we must abide by our own Code of Ethics and Code of Procedure. There is no reason to contractually obligate us to follow our own guidelines, then try to punish us with the University's policy. It is not that we want to be free to do whatever we want, but instead want to use our own rules to determine what is run in the paper. Our agreement also states that the University cannot be held liable for anything The Mirror prints. If the University then holds The Mirror responsible for adhering to its policies, the University is implicitly responsible for anything The Mirror prints.

In addition, the student handbook policies only apply to internal persons. The Mirror, if independent, is an external organization and should not be bound by the harassment policy in the handbook. If The Mirror is an internal organization bound by the policies of the handbook, it is not independent and the University should just call us Campus Cur-

set up an advisory board. As I read the policy, I don't have the discretion to send it some-

rents. The student code specifically states that harassment by students, faculty, staff or visitors will not be tolerated. But The Mirror is none of these. It is an external organization contracted by the University to provide a service.

The next time a writer tackles a controversial topic, such as abortion or same-sex marriage, someone could file a complaint and hold The Mirror responsible. We cannot be objective if we have to worry about punishment for anything we print.

The Mirror has taken unprecedented steps in order to learn and grow from this experience. We apologized. The editorial board met with the protesters to foster discussion on the topic. We published an anonymous letter against our own policy in order to give the protesters more of a voice. We have added a supplement to our Code of Procedure to address columns such as "He Said/ She Said" in addition to our willingness to add an advisory board to handle any future complaints. The Mirror is an external organization run by students; we work hard at producing a product beneficial to the student body. But at the same time, we are here to learn as well.

We have learned from this experience and will continue to learn and grow as an organization.

After the harassment complaints were filed, Dean of Students Tom Pellegrino suggested mediation to resolve the dispute. But the students refused. Any sanctions against The Mirror as an organization, or its writers, is tantamount to censorship and inhibits our status as an independent paper.

The school can't have it both ways.

We're either independent, or just an extension of the University with the administration controlling the news coming from The Mirror.

The Mirror welcomes the opinions and contributions of its readers: Letters to the editor must be timely and submitted in person at BCC 104, by email at opinion@fairfieldmirror.com or through our Web site (www.fairfieldmirror.com).

All letters to the editor that are appropriate will be published either in print or on www.fairfieldmirror.com The Mirror reserves the right to edit letters and articles for content, length and grammatical error. Letters should be free of obscenities and personal attacks, and should contain correct and factual information.

Letters should not exceed 400 words.

The Mirror Incorporated 1977

those complaints processed in a timely fashion.”

-Dean of Students Tom Pellegrino, at Monday's meeting with The Mirror

In reference to "Getting Ready for Registration" on page 10. Have an opinion? Send it to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com

Stop your Swine-ing!

By Ana Ziegler Staff Writer

they got the flu from the shot. What is the sense in that?

While everybody is able to get I know that this might be a sensithe regular flu shot, the new vaccine tive topic for some people, and I against the swine flu is limited don’t want to offend anybody. But and only certain people are eligithere are certain things that need ble to receive them. Works for me, to be said about swine flu. because I do not want that shot.

It is everywhere, either people I realize some people might be have it, people talk about it, or surprised by my opinion on this. I people freak out about it. There is think that the development of the just no escape. vaccine has been rushed because But is it really that bad? Is it people were starting to panic and legitimate that some people freak it is a huge money maker for the out about it that much? pharmacy industry.

I honestly think it is a little bit The vaccine has many side efover the top. Sure, having swine fects that are not fully researched flu sucks, but if you are a healthy yet and nobody knows what longyoung person, like most students term effects it might have. In 10 on campus here, it is not really years we could discover that the that dangerous or different from people who got the swine flu were the regular flu. It is more dangerbetter off than those who got the ous for older people or babies and shot. Who knows? none of us really fit into that catAli Russoniello/The Mirror So consider these things egory (even though some people The Health Center handling swine flu on before freaking out. Let’s all behave as if they were five-years- campus as best they can. just calm down. There are more old, but that is a different story). important things going on in this It is good to take precautions like The regular flu mutates way too fast University right now than swine flu washing and sanitizing your hands to keep up with it, so even if you got because apparently the “He said” and not sharing bottles or cups , but a shot, you might still get sick. I have controversy is still going on and that these should be part of our normal heard a lot of stories from people is something we should be really routine anyway. There really is no who got their shots and ended up lyworrying about. need to panic. ing in bed for the next week because

News

Sports

Business

Opinion

Multimedia

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Arts & Entertainment

Photography

Adviser

Keri Harrison, Editor Courtney Kern, Associate & Features Editor Mikaela Tierney, Asst. Editor Veronica Florentino, Editor Elizabeth Connors, Asst. Editor Vincent Ferrer, Cartoonist

Tom Cleary, Editor in Chief Lily Norton, Executive Editor Chris Simmons, Managing Editor

Now, let's talk about flu shots. I understand that people try everything possible to not get the flu but I think flu shots are not very effective.

Melissa Mann, Editor Gabriella Tutino, Asst. Editor

Tom Cleary, Keith Connors, Chris Simmons, Editors

Meghan Schelzi, Editor Andoni Flores, Video Editor

Peter Caty, Executive Editor Ali Foreman, Asst. Editor

Contact Information Mail Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824 Phone Newsroom: 203-256-6600 | Advertising: 203-256-6594 | Editor in Chief: 203-256-6529

Email fairfield.mirror@gmail.com Fax 203-256-6529

Keith Connors, General Manager Christopher Haliskoe, Managing Director Kristian Petric, Distribution Manager

Michelle Morrison, Managing Editor Joe Cefoli, Project Manager Traci Dantoni, Content Editor

Fran Silverman

Opinion

Letter to the Editor To the Editor:

Unfortunately, it has not taken long for the new Senior Vice President’s office to cover itself with shame. The administration’s threat to cancel funding for The Mirror is so many times more disgraceful then the original column that prompted the threat.

Must we all be reminded of the position, that I don’t agree with what you say but I will defend to the death your right to say it. This threat by the administration is nothing more then a cheap attempt to take the independence away from The Mirror and to create a paper that would have the same journalistic integrity as Pravda.

There is just so much [that is] problematic about the administration's threat. Firstly, no fair reading of any codes or regulations the university has could be read to conclude that the column or anything else that has appeared in The Mirror rises to the level a justified judicial complaint. The argument that some people were offended, insulted or even outraged by the column should have no dispositive meaning. Remember what Justice Brandeis argued in his dissenting opinion in Gitlow v New York, “Every idea is an incitement”. Words are intended to have meaning and to cause people to react, which includes being deeply offended.

Another reason that this threat has no rational basis is that it attempts to apply a code of behavior intended to apply to students at the university to an entity, The Mirror itself, which is independent. This is not the first time the university has acted to suppress legitimate speech and tried to justify its actions with shallow and disingenuous reasons.

Several years ago the president cancelled a speaker who was to speak on same sex marriage. Then, as now, the reasons given just defy credibility.

This column and any very controversial statement in The Mirror provide the campus with wonderful teaching opportunities to debate the column, to protest the column, to point out the potential harm of such sexist writings, all of which are positive outcomes.

To attempt to use the heavy hand of the administration to effectively censor and silence controversial speech is by using in this case its power of the purse is the worst possible message we can send to our students.

The Mirror is a student newspaper. Students are here to learn.

We learn by making mistakes, mistakes should not be punished by, in effect, banishment.

I hope every member of our community that respects free speech, intellectual inquiry and risk taking will join me in saying no to this despicable act our administration is threatening.

Sincerely, Donald Greenberg Associate Professor and Chair Politics Department

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Page 10

Making the course catalog your candy store

By Michelle Morrison Online Managing Editor It’s the most wonderful time of the year.

No, not Christmas (even though Stop and Shop is selling Christmas candy already). Registration!

I’m not kidding. I absolutely love registration. It’s my favorite part of the school year, despite the hassle that inevitably comes along with it.

Think about it. Registration is the time when you get to decide what your life will be like for the next few months.

In my opinion, opening up the course booklet (or at least clicking on it) is like stepping into the candy store. You’ll find your major and minor classes, your favorite candy flavors. These are the courses that you have designated as the ones that you know the best and that interest you the most. Take something you love.

For me, it is anything from Fairy Tales to World of Publishing. When I look at the English classes, I can’t help but salivate a little bit.

Of course, you have your core classes, the classes you think are black licorice. I’ll admit, picking from these can be a chore.

Still, that art history core might help you discover an interest in Italian art that leads you to a semester abroad in Florence. You can learn something from any class, even if it is nothing more than the fact that you

really do not like finance.

Also, do not expect that you will get all the classes you want. Look for some alternatives, so you are not stuck on registration day with no idea what other classes fulfill that second visual and performing arts requirement.

Your electives are your chance to explore what Fairfield has to offer.

Go crazy; take Nature of the Universe and learn about the stars, or take Cultural Anthropology and cultivate radical doubt.

Whether you are looking for a fun class, an easy class or a challenging class, finding the right professor is key. You’ll probably spend the days leading up to registration frantically talking to friends and searching RateMyProfessor.com. You might want to check out the professors who have been named Teacher of the Year by Alpha Sigma Nu. Take it from a senior who’s getting ready for her last registration day and last semester at Fairfield: make the most of your courses.

Don’t just pick whatever seems easiest or whatever your roommate took last semester, because it probably will not be what you expect it to be.

Try some new things, because this may be the last chance you will have to learn digital photography or study the ethics of humanitarian action.

The choice is yours. Use it wisely, young grasshoppers.

Photo by Peter Caty/ The Mirror, Illustration at top by Dan Leitao/The Mirror

Remember this place? Online registration means you can get your classes without ever entering the Kelley Center.

Making sure registration is not a chore

By Margot da Cunha Staff Writer When I opened my Gmail account to receive that first wonderful reminder about upcoming registration, two words come to mind: annoyance and frustration.

Registration is NEVER a fun process, and Fairfield’s confusing system does not make anything easier. As I’m sure you are all aware, this year we are “going green," meaning that the school is not printing out those lovely course booklets that could be picked up in the Kelley Center. Instead we are all forced to stare at a computer screen for hours on end as our headache’s increase from moderate to severe and Advil becomes a necessity.

Nicole Molle ’12 gave her view on going green, “It is definitely a little annoying to have to read the booklet online, but I think it’s good that the schools going green. Printing out course booklets for 4,000 students can’t be good for the environment.”

The registration process may seem like just another mandatory thing that we’d like to quickly get over with, but the reality is the process determines the next entire semester of our college careers. Tom Kelly ’12 gave his strategy on choosing classes, “I make sure to avoid all classes

before 11 a.m., and try to have at least one day off, preferably Wednesday or Friday.”

A useful tip for freshmen is to use RateMyProfessor.com. This Web site is one of the best inventions the world wide-web has ever came out with for college students. It provides reviews of almost every teacher in every department from several different students, but make sure to read more then just two reviews because who knows who in the world is posting these comments; it could be anyone from the teacher themselves to a foreign exchange student. The information is usually mostly accurate, though.

Another tip for freshmen, have backup classes! Especially if you’re at the bottom of the list for registration time. Classes fill up fast, and without backups, you may be stuck taking the one teacher in the department that takes off 25 percent of your grade for every missed class.

Overall, registration is an annoying process that all of us will have to deal with for the rest of our education at Fairfield. Now that course booklets are online the process is even more frustrating, but in the long wrong the environment will greatly benefit. Even though we all want to get registration out of the way is important to plan one’s schedule with technique.

Good luck to all in surviving registration! I know you’ll need it.

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Features | 11

Online Check for updated blogs and new content.

fairfieldmirror.com

Editor Courtney Kern » features@fairfieldmirror.com

*

I

By Andoni Flores Video Editor

t wasn’t until I was written up the first week of school that I actually started to contemplate why I spent so much time getting drunk and/or trying to get drunk.

After a long meeting with the dean of students, I was placed on probation until May 2010. Faced with expulsion if I ran into anymore trouble, and the possibility that I may not be let abroad next semester, I started to wonder if the juice was really worth the squeeze.

What was it all for? It couldn’t be the memories, half the time I ended up so drunk that I couldn’t remember anything I had done the night before. After weekends of the repetitive act of drinking, then going to the townhouses and drinking some more, hooking up with some random girl, then calling it a night, they all began to blur together; that couldn’t possibly be it.

“It didn’t matter if I knew anyone there or not, as long as I could drink their booze

I could be charming.”

Photo By Peter Caty

It certainly couldn’t be the investment opportunities. Alcohol bled me of money every weekend. If it wasn’t because of the actual booze, it was in cab rides and if not cab rides, at least late night drunk munchies.

For some reason, god awful food joints like Dominoes or McDonalds always sound amazing when you’re drunk off your ass at 3:30 a.m., and looking for a way to quench the hunger pains and sober up.

The more I thought about it, I couldn’t think of a legitimately good reason for doing it. All the years of going through the system, AOD 101, AOD 202, Grand Session with Lisa Arnold and Basics with Kevin Curry, had all taught me that alcohol had detrimental effects on my physical and mental health. It just didn’t add up. Why was I wasting time and money on something that wasted my time, money, and harmed my body?

To my embarrassment, the simple answer was: because everyone else is doing it. However, even with the threat of expulsion looming over my head, I still would go out. I couldn’t help it.

I wanted to stay in. I wanted to behave myself so I could stay in school and go abroad, but when the weekend rolled around and I asked everyone what they were up to, it was the same response countless times: “getting drunk.”

My former housemates tried to be supportive. On several occasions, I remember we made an effort to do movie nights as a house, but I just couldn’t sit still. As the movies played, all I could think about was how many of my friends were getting drunk and how all the cute girls I wanted to hook up with were hooking up with someone else; all because he decided to get drunk and show up to the party where they were. I would have flashbacks of being drunk and surrounded by countless people at a party.

Loud music, people stuffed in a townhouse like sardines who, despite being barely able to breathe, still managed to play beer pong. All of this would be going on in my head as the movie played. I couldn’t handle it.

As soon I reached my breaking point, I would walk out the door, hit up a few people, show up to a place with booze and chug it all down until I was as drunk as every-

one else. It didn’t matter if I knew anyone there or not, as long as I could drink their booze I could be charming.

I am completely amazed at myself that every weekend, I risk everything I’ve worked for my entire life just for some cheap booze and a night I’ll hardly remember. I suppose the first step is admitting that I have a problem.

I thought I wasn’t the only one, but as I picked up the camera and started to interview people I was caught off guard when people repeatedly answered that they didn’t believe this school had a drinking problem. I know I wasn’t like this before I got to college, so what could it be?

There are 3,719 students here at Fairfield. In 2008 there were 1,285 alcohol violations. That’s a number nearly 35 percent or roughly one third of the student population and those are only the ones that got caught.

Speaking of those that got caught, 106 underage students (the majority from Fairfield and Sacred Heart) were found to be carrying fake IDs in a police raid of the local bar “Bravo”. Strangely enough, if you go online to the Princeton Review and look up Fairfield University, you’ll find that we’re ranked third on the list for hard alcohol.

But none of these things seem like red flags to anyone I interviewed. Everyone was asked if they thought that Fairfield University had a drinking problem. Again and again I received the same answer: no. The response I would get the most was that this was college; this much drinking is normal. I could see how that question would get confusing if not put in the proper context. The Princeton Review certainly makes it seem like we don’t have a drinking problem, in fact, it looks like we’re quite good at it; nationally ranked even. Wish I could say the same for more Fairfield sports.

Even Jeff Seiser, the president of FUSA, didn’t seem to think that the school had a problem.

“It’s a product of our culture, I think it depends on the student. I think there are some students that know their limits, that go out to drink socially. But I think there are students that don’t know their limits, and they watch TV and they watch the “Animal Houses” of the world and they see and they think that college is about drinking and things like that,” Seiser said.

After I told him the number of violations in comparison to the student population he seemed dismayed.

“By those stats, it shows that I guess we’re struggling very much. But I think that the university is doing the best that it can,” Seiser added.

As did everyone else who didn’t know the statistics.

Another thing that stuck out to me when I interviewed students was that everyone, with the exception of the two girls who live on the healthy living floor, drank alcohol. From the President of FUSA to the students in Loyola Hall, and when asked why, their responses can be summed up by the response of Zach Ennes, a sophomore living in the Ignatian Residential College, or as it is more commonly known-- Loyola.

When asked why he drank he told me, “Because my friends do it,” then after a quick stutter he managed to add “it’s a social thing.”

I was told that they liked to drink when they went out because it was a social situation and drinking was a form of socializing. But I remember being in the townhouses and drinking without actually socializing. In fact, it seems like everyone drank in hopes that they would socialize. Actually, from my recollection, it seems like everyone drank while they waited to get on the beer pong table or to play some other drinking game, where they would, in fact, drink more. The point of all the games seemed to get everyone as drunk as possible. But maybe this is socializing? Maybe that’s why no one sees a problem with the trends of our generation. Our concept of socializing has been so skewed that alcohol appears to be a prerequisite for interacting with others.

Is it because you no longer feel responsible for your actions? So if you make a bad impression you can always blame it on the alcohol and try again later? Are we so insecure with ourselves that we need a drug to help us interact with one another?

*this is the prologue to a

documentary called “Inebriated” that will be released by The Mirror in collaboration with the Ham Channel

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Online

Arts & Entertainment| 13 Can’t Go Wrong With an Oldie

A review of last weekend’s Late Night at the Stag and S.A.L.S.A.’s “Noche Caliente.”

Editor Melissa Mann » entertainment@fairfieldmirror.com

fairfieldmirror.com

The Best Movies For a Weekend In

By Dan Leitao Staff Writer

Rudy (1993) — The only sports movie to make the list, it’s the classic story of believing in dreams and working incredibly hard. It will also help explain why Notre Dame graduates wear Notre Dame apparel almost every day.

On those Friday nights when the party scene does not seem like the place to be or a night when you are trying to avoid the massive amount of work you have, there is nothing better than hanging out to watch a movie. When you’ve run through all the Super Bads, Hangovers and Pineapple Expresses, there are some great older movies that should be classics in every college student’s TV stand. Here are the Top Ten.

Porky’s (1982) — Set in 1954 in Florida, a group of high school boys set out to lose their virginity. If that sounds trite and overplayed, consider that this was done in 1982. So, in essence, American Pie and Superbad meet.

Casablanca (1942) — Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Burgman make Casablanca quite possibly the best romance movie of all-time. A must see for all students and the only true romance that has made the list. Also one of the few black and white movies that isn’t an issue to watch or feels dull.

Risky Business (1983) — Most of us have seen The Girl Next Door (2007), which has often been accused of taking its plot from Risky Business. However, Risky Business is definitely still worth seeing. Set in Chicago, Joel Goodson (Tom Cruise) is given a weekend he will never forget after his parents go away.

Top Gun (1986) — Wingmen might as well have been the 80s version of Bromance. Maverick and Goose, fighter planes, singing in bars. For anyone who has yet to see this movie you will understand why Halloween costumes and parties are themed around it.

Good Will Hunting (1997) — Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Robin Williams. If you need another reason to watch this movie, watch the video of Matt Damon and Ben Affleck winning the Oscar for Good Will Hunting on YouTube. Funny, serious and uplifting always makes a great movie.

Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975) — British humor is quite often not as funny to us as it is to the Brits. However, it works in Monty Python.

A movie with an enormous cult following that has spun out into a Broadway musical.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986) — John Hughes had two movies make this list, and Ferris Bueller is another teen classic. Matthew Broderick plays hooky for a day and does more then most people can do in a week of vacation.

Photo Illustration by Dan Leitao

Fight Club (1999) — The first rule of Fight Club is don’t talk about Fight Club. So you will have to watch it to find out.

Animal House (1978) — If you haven’t seen it, I need not say more.

The Right Bite a review of restaurants in and around Fairfield

Alexandra Hein/The Mirror

Pizza Palace caters to students who want good pizza at a good price.

Pizza Palace at 2063 Black Rock Turnpike

By Alexandra Hein Staff Writer Being from New York makes me a royal pain in the oven when it comes to pizza. One place that is sure to satisfy my craving without emptying my wallet is Pizza Palace located at 2063 Black Rock Turnpike.

This family style setting welcomes you to sit either in booths or tables, and has more than just pizza on the menu. What you’ll find is an array of American, Greek, Italian and Mediterranean dishes, ranging from burgers, to chicken cacciatore, to souvlaki and finally to an array of pizzas.

To start with an appetizer, the cheapest pick would be garlic bread, which is $2.95, and the most expensive is called The Super Sampler, which includes chicken tenders, buffalo wings, mozzarella sticks and potato skins for $9.95.

If you are in the mood for a good pasta dish, the menu ranges from pasta served in

a rich plum tomato sauce served with either a soup or tossed salad for $8.95, to the most expensive pasta also served with either a soup or a salad, Angel Hair and Shrimp de Angela for $15.95. Dishes such as Penne Ala Vodka, Fettuccini Spinach, Aflredo and Fettuccini Florentine all cost $11.95, and yes they also come with a soup or salad.

If you are not looking for something as heavy as a pasta, Pizza Palace also offers a variety of Grinders ranging from $7 to $8. These include the usual suspects: Meatball, Veal Cutlet, Chicken Cutlet, Eggplant, Chicken Salad, Tuna Salad, etc. However, if you are in the mood for something a little different, it also has a Corned Beef Grinder, Pastrami Grinder, London Broil Grinder, Cheeseburger Grinder, BBQ Steak Grinder and others.

If you’ve got room after your hearty entrée, don’t leave without trying a dessert.

There’s Carrot Cake, Tiramisu, New York Cheesecake, Rice Pudding, Chocolate Cake, Cannoli, and Ice Cream. All are under $5.00.

Recently I dined at “The Palace,” and did not stray farther than their garlic knots (12 pieces) for $6.95 and a few slices of pepperoni pizza. I will vouch that after eating there with another person we ate, four slices of one topping pizza slices, an order of the garlic knots and one twenty ounce bottle of Pepsi. All of that resulted in a $20.50 bill and a doggie bag. Not a bad deal.

The only thing that accompanies pizza better than a Pepsi in a few Stags’ opinions is a cold beer. Pizza Palace has that as well, offering Heineken, Michelob, Becks, Coors Light, Corona, Amstel Light and Molson Light in bottles for $4.50. Also on the menu is Budweiser and Bud Light on tap for $3.50 a glass, or $9.50 a pitcher.

As if you needed any more convincing to check this place out, it has also been sliding it’s menu under your door on campus lately, which happens to include coupons and yes, they also deliver for a minimum of $10 dollars and an additional $1 charge.

Pizza Palace boasts a lunch special that starts at $7.95 on Monday-Friday. They are open seven days a week, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. You can place your order and pick it up, or have it delivered, by calling (203) 579-4614.

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Arts & Entertainment

By Lily Norton Executive Editor

Page 14

iPick Artist: Panic! at the Disco Song: When the Day Met the Night This song is pretty ridiculous in terms of subject matter, but what fun song isn’t a little ridiculous? Despite what the season is, “When the Day Met The Night” reminds you of the great days of summer. I’m not afraid to admit that I pump this song through my car speakers on road trips and sing along loudly.

Artist: KT Tunstall Song: Heal Over From KT Tunstall’s breakout album, this song is a testament to her great, unique style. Once you hear the harmonies in this lullaby, you are addicted. The song is the slowest in tempo on the album and is a perfect song to listen to when you are trying to relax after a long day.

Peter Caty/The Mirror

Artist: Amos Lee Song: Colors Artist: Michael Buble Song: Stardust My favorite song from my favorite movie. Stardust is a classic melody that’s been covered by the greats, and I thought my favorite version appears in the film “Sleepless in Seattle.” But Michael Buble adds some serious style to this musical staple. (Just to add, Michael and I’s similar hand positions was a coincidence, so that’s just more proof that we belong together.)

Artist: Tally Hall Song: Good Day A great band that has earned little attention. This song is a good representative of the band’s first album — it’s pretty unconventional, but every song is a fun listen. Good Day, like the other tunes, seems to be able to put disjointed musical ideas and combine them into a cohesive song.

This song has the power to take you back down to earth. The song is just so eloquently put together and the heartfelt message heard through Lee’s beautiful voice will make any girl weak in the knees. Boys, if you still make mix tapes to your crushes or significant others, you must seriously include this song.

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Arts & Entertainment

Page 15

Richard Kelly’s ‘The Box’ is Full of Disappointment

Contributed Photo

The acting by Cameron Diaz and James Marsden was the only thing that saved “The Box” from being a complete film failure.

By Deanna Mitchell Staff Writer It’s a question of human nature that director Richard Kelly attempts to answer in “The Box.” The question alone draws audience members into the movie, but, unfortunately, Kelly doesn’t know how to keep us there. His film, which stars Cameron Diaz and James Marsden, is about an average couple trying to make ends meet when they are approached by a mysterious disfigured man with an interesting proposition: push the button on a small box they’ve been given and in turn receive a million dollars. The catch is it’ll take another person’s life.

The concept seems interesting at first, but Kelly’s attempt to put so many different themes and symbols into one film causes it to be disorganized, boring, and predictable.

One would think that the director of the classic film Donnie Darko would be able to bring a twisted sensation to the big screen again, but it must not be in him anymore.

Before I begin to list my disappoints, I will say that out of all the things wrong with this film, the acting was not one of them. Diaz and Marsden complimented each other

well, and were able to feed off each other to create a natural connection. There were only two or three scenes where I felt the two could have toned it down a bit.

The actors deserve credit for working with a script that lacked any depth. In fact, watching the movie as a whole could make you feel as if the writer doubts the audience’s own ability to draw conclusions on their own. Everything is revealed in one way or another, so there are no real surprises which could have actually added to the blandness. The reason anyone would get into this movie is stripped away!

The only thing that I couldn’t figure out 30 minutes before it happened was the final options that were granted to the couple near the end, and the unveiling of that was a bit disappointing.

The movie was two hours long, but it felt like I had been sitting forever due to how slow the movie played out. While physical action is not always necessary to help move a film along, it could have used some in this case.

In a film like Donnie Darko, where the main character is a disturbed, complex persona, embedding numerous symbols and themes and focusing on dialogue is appropriate, but doing so in “The Box” just made the film feel longer than it really is; it distracts the audience from what is going on in the movie.

I was so fixated on trying to figure out certain representations that, at one point, I stopped paying attention to what was happening in one of the most important scenes!

Plus, because the ideas and themes are not well established, audience members will find themselves deeply confused by the constant ideas free-floating through the film.

Kelly had way too many things going on at once, and if he could have just removed a few symbols and themes, it would have balanced out better.

This science fiction thriller (if that’s what you want to call it) just didn’t hit the spot.

There was no real depth or organization, it was drawn out and long, and if one does not pay attention to every little thing going on, you will get lost. There was a point where I was so fed up with the lack of entertainment that I wanted to get up to leave the film without finishing it.

Richard Kelly did not provide the world with his finest in this film. He tried to resurrect “Donnie Darko” from a different angle, and it just didn’t work.

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Online

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Coffee Break | 17

Check online every week for answers to our games.

fairfieldmirror.com

Ed. Note: These articles are intended to be comedy and satire.

Chris Surette College provides four great years to party and hang out before the “real” world approaches. One of the best parts of college is just chilling with your boys and all the shenanigans that come with it. There’s an old expression that states: “A good friend will bail you out of jail, while your best friend will be sitting next to you.” I agree with that statement; however, in college you don’t just have one best friend; you got your boys. This makes the odds of your girlfriend bailing you out because you and your five boys are all in jail much more likely.

The great thing about hanging with the boys is it truly does not matter what you’re doing. You could either be flipping through the channels for hours trying to find a show to watch or going to YouTube and watching Mike Tyson’s greatest moments while repeating quote, “You’re gonna get Kevin killed.” The sky’s the limit for your options to screw around with. I can’t count the times that my boys and I have spent laying around the living room, drinking brews, watching football, and talking about who’s next on the radar. And don’t forget about

Editor Tom Cleary » mirrorcoffeebreak@gmail.com

HE said / SHE said Hanging With the Boys and Girls smack talking each other about your fantasy football team every week. Hey Bob, stop trying to say your team’s good, they suck and I hope you enjoy your current four-game losing streak.

Another thing is the odds of playing video games and having a chew while chilling with a girl are as great as the Jets making the playoffs. My friends and I would waste hours playing a four-some on Tiger Woods ‘06 for the regular Xbox freshmen year. However, when you hang with girls, you can’t be your loud, vulgar self and honestly, we are a lot more fun when we are. Most guys would rather be the town drunk than the choir boy.

Also, who do you think is going to make up your intramural squad for the various sports offered during the year? The answer is your buds. By the way, we have a number of sports for the winter, so go out and sign your team up. The more teams equals more opportunities for me to work. The Grape has been killing my wallet so I think you know what I’m getting at. Alright I got to go, Maki’s about to get an @ss-kicking in NHL.

Spending a night with the girls can be a break from the world of guys and hooking up.

Whether it’s a girls’ night in or a girls’ night out, it’s hard not to have a good time.

When you’re staying in with the girls, you’re free to watch as much Grey’s Anatomy as you want, in your pajamas, without makeup on. Cuisine of the night will probably include Reese’s, Tostitos, (plus lots of other miscellaneous junk food) and lots of wine.

And yes - we will probably be talking about that awkward hook-up with the guy in the Bret Michaels wig.

If it’s a night out with just the girls, then it’s sure to get wild. For some reason, we tend to get more dressed up for a girl’s night out than the average night.

The first 10 minutes of being together will consist of series of complements, such as “I love your shoes!” and “That dress is great, where did you get it?” Even if the person is a complete mess, we will find SOMETHING to compliment - it’s just part of girl code.

Like Dane Cook says, sometimes you just wanna dance. And a lot of times that involves standing in a circle with your friends. I don’t know why circles just work better for dancing, but it’s a proven fact that they do. And when

Allyson Wuensch

someone breaks the seal, you can bet it will be a group field trip to the bathroom. I can’t tell you why, but since the Stone Age, women have been peeing together. I doubt it’s for moral support.

As much as I love spending a night with the girls, hanging with the boys is just a different kind of entertainment. Spending a night in a sausage fest gives you a first class ticket to the drama-free world of guyland. You can sit back, relax, grab a beer and just enjoy the flat screen TV. Spending time with the guys is great, but there are a few things you will need to accept before taking this ticket to guyland.

1. Most guys are kind of sloppy. There will probably be crap all over the floor and tables.

Also, there might be a funny smell coming from the bottom of that stack of laundry. On the bright side, this risk has been reduced significantly since the invention of Febreeze.

2. Belching and farting will occur, a lot. Join in the fun if you really want to or buy a gas mask.

3. You better learn to hold your own in video games; or you’ll become the sacrificial lamb in a game of Halo while you’re still figuring out how to move around the screen. Or just be stuck watching for a very long time.

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Coffee Break

Career Corner Employer Application Deadlines: Bloomberg Schlumberger Northwestern Mutual (Meadows) Stolt-Nielsen USA Inc. Northwestern Mutual (Quinlan) First Investors Corp.

Bankers Life & Casualty Co. Barnum Financial Group / MetLife Melville Financial Group/MetLife Northwestern Mutual (Bender) Aetna Information Services Blinds to Go Hertz Corporation Calvin Hill Daycare Center

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11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09 11/30/09

“An Evening with Educators”

Are you going to be a teacher or thinking about it? Hear what current teachers, principals and superintendents have to say about landing a job and the paths you can take!

Thursday, November 12th 6:00 p.m.

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Don’t Assume You Know How to Interview!!

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Page 18

Sports

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Men’s Soccer

Seniors Fight to Finish

Page 20

Broadcasting the Stags

By Sean Clores Staff Writer

Uy and Classmates Pick Up Much Needed Win on Senior Day to Earn Trip to MAACs

By Rory Bernier Staff Writer After three trips to the MAAC tournament and two championship victories that led to trips to the NCAA Tournament, the senior class did not want to go out without a chance to Peter Caty/The Mirror defend its title at Lessing Field.

Seniors Christian Uy and Kwadwo Asante battle for the ball in practice.

But despite the fact the MAAC Tournament is going to be played at added.

Lessing Field this coming weekend, the Stags were Asante said that not guaranteed one of the four spots that would allow nline he will miss being them to defend the title from last season. And after a a soccer player at 3-0 loss to Niagara on Friday night, that opportunity Mirror Sports Blog: Fairfield, but is excited was in jeopardy.

More from senior about the chance to That set up a chance for the seniors, led by ChrisKwadwo Asante. defend the championtian Uy, who has scored the sixth most goals in school ship. history, to defeat Canisius and secure a spot in the “The attention that came along with, walking tournament and extend their playing careers.

They did just that. It was Uy who scored an early on campus it always seems like someone knew you although you have never met them before, it shows goal to give the Stags a 1-0 lead, which would end how much people pays attention to the sport and that 2-0. Fellow senior Matt Cleveland came on late to makes me proud to know that,” Asante said. “Another spend time in goal, while Kwadwo Asante also came thing that I have enjoyed playing soccer here is the fact off the bench. Charlie Grover was also honored that it gave me the opportunity to experience playing before the game. in an NCAA Tournament.”

“I thanked all three of the guys for their effort He added that heading into Sunday’s game and commitment to our University,” head coach Carl Rees said. “I sure they will have fond memories against Canisius, the seniors knew that it was their responsibility to extend their Fairfield careers. of those wins but most of all they will remember the “We knew the only way for us to make the tournafriends they have made and the day to day camarament is to either get a tie or beat Canisius, so that motiderie of the locker room.” vated us because we did not want to be the Marist of We will miss Charlie’s tough tackling, Matt’s last year where they hosted the MAAC tournament but incredible reflex saves, Kojo’s wizardry on the wings were no part of it,” Asante said. and Chris Uy’s amazing one vs. one skills. These guys The Stags will play Loyola at 4:30 p.m. on Friday are good people who have embraced the challenges of at Lessing Field. our sport at this level with humility and courage,” Rees

O

Every Thursday

6:30 p.m.

A nine hour bus ride and four days in upstate New York might not sound like the most enticing vacation for a college student, but for me, it was four of the best days in my college career.

What was I doing up there?

Broadcasting Fairfield Basketball.

In my first year at Fairfield, I knew that I loved sports and wanted to be involved in some way. I participated in intramurals and attended varsity games, but I never imagined that opportunity that was in front of me. During my sophomore year, I decided to take a look at WVOF, Fairfield University’s radio station. I was hesitant at first because I didn’t know much about the station. Also, I had never been on the radio before.

I didn’t expect to be involved much early on. I figured a guy with no experience, who just started, would not get many opportunities to broadcast Fairfield sports. I couldn’t have been more wrong.

Immediately, the station gave me the opportunity to broadcast Fairfield basketball. I loved it instantly. On game day, I would walk up to the media entrance, grab my pass, and find my seat right on the floor before the game. It was a great feeling to do more than watch the game.

I continued to broadcast for the next year and really started to get the hang of it. The chance to broadcast division 1 basketball in a place like the Arena at Harbor Yard was not something I could of envisioned doing just a year before.

If that wasn’t enough, I had the chance to work with one of the best play by play announcers around, Bob Heussler. He is the play by play man for Fairfield University Men’s Basketball but also does the 20 20 updates for WFAN New York, among his many jobs. Heussler is the adviser for the sports department at WVOF. The chance to work and learn from him, is an experience just by itself.

By my junior year, I had covered many games and had a lot of exciting moments, but nothing like those four days upstate. Heussler called and asked if someone could make the trip because there was an opening in the broadcast. I jumped the opportunity and three days later I was on my way to Buffalo. I stayed in a hotel, got to enjoy practice and experience another city, but most importantly, broadcast two games with Bob. We went 1 and 1 on the trip. The team beat Canisius but lost to Niagara. Still, the trip was an experience I will never forget.

Looking back on my four years here, broadcasting sports like this is a rare opportunity and I’m glad I found out about it. I always run into people who think it would be an awesome thing to do but never go for it. Whether they think it’s too late or they think they don’t have enough experience, something holds them back.

My advice is go for it. It is never to late to get involved in something you love but why not take the chance when it’s right here?

Sports radio has so much for students to get involved so if you feel it could be something for you, give it a shot. Come by the WVOF studio and become part of the college sports experience.

For more info, you can also email wvofsports@gmail.com

Sports

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Page 21

This Week in Sports The week that was in Fairfield Athletics

Picture of the Week

Six Questions With ...

Fairfield Sports Information Director Jack Jones

by Eric Bernsen

Editor’s note: Eric Bernsen is a work study for the SID office.

« The Mirror: How did you get to be the sports information director at FU? «Jack Jones: I started in this field right out of college. I officially got going as a graduate assistant at Rowan University. I then served two years as assistant director at Princeton, eventually I became sports information Jones director at New Haven University, where I spent eight years. I have now been sports information director for 13 years here at Fairfield University. « The Mirror: What goes on behind the scenes at FU sports games that most people don’t realize?

«Jack Jones: We prepare for events with game programs, announcements, video taping and material for the Web site. The live stats are tough to keep up with and we need to make sure our computers are ready for live scores. People just go on-line and click on the links, but it takes time and effort to set up for every game.

Peter Caty/The Mirror

Women’s basketball starts practice

« The Mirror: What strategies do you think should be used for an increased attendance at FU athletic events?

«Jack Jones: It is tough to say because this is more of a marketing aspect, but we have a lot of competition to deal with, whether locally around Fairfield and Bridgeport or the national sports on television every night. There are a lot of different options but the key is to separate yourself from the competition. We have a very good athletic department, and just getting people out there once is important because they will be more likely to come back again. We do as much as we can, especially by providing transportation to games in Bridgeport or other off-campus areas. The Mirror sports section helps us a lot by giving readers the information needed to get out there and support the student athletes. « The Mirror: Describe your relationship with The Mirror sports staff. How do you guys help each other?

«Jack Jones: I like to think that I have a good relationship with The Mirror sports staff. I try to accommodate their needs as best I can. Their role is very important and very much appreciated by the sports information staff. Tom, Keith, and Chris have done an excellent job in balancing coverage on all sports. The sports information staff does its best to provide timely information so that they can do their jobs. « The Mirror: Can you talk a little about the passing of Athletic Chaplain Father Laurence O’Neil and describe his impact on FU’s student athletes?

«Jack Jones: From a personal standpoint, he was a very special person. Father was always around and students got a chance to know him because he had a personal interest in you as an individual. He had an amazing understanding of the Fairfield student body, and he worked with all types of student athletes. Father O’Neil made everyone feel important, he was a great man and will be dearly missed. « The Mirror: What would you say is the most frustrating part of your job?

«Jack Jones: Sometimes in a change of seasons its tough to get everything done, we have to make decisions just like a student. Knowing time management and how to fit everything in piece by piece can be a challenge. This time of year can be especially overwhelming with soccer still going and basketball coming soon. Scheduling time the best you can be stressful but is extremely important.

The women’s basketball team gathers for practice. The Stags will start the season with a road game against Rhode Island on Nov. 14 and will then open their home season with a game against Lafayette at 7 p.m. on Nov. 18.

Introducing...

Freshman Derek Needham Men’s Basketball

Needham

« The Bio: A native of Dalton, Ill., Needham was an All League player at DeLaSalle High School, helping his team to the Class 4A Finals. He was named to the All-State Second Team by the News-Gazette.

« College: Needham started both exhibition games for the Stags, averaging 16 points per game. « Career plans: To be a police officer, or play professional basketball. « Favorite video game: NBA2K10 « Favorite sport besides basketball:

Baseball

« Favorite class: Psychology « Historical Figure I Would Want to Meet: Martin Luther King, Jr.

Mirror Sports 3 X 5 Tom Cleary Editor in Chief

Bert or Ernie?

If you were a WWE wrestler, what would your name be?

I wish I could transform into ...

I’d like to come back as ...

_(Blank)__ really turns my stomach.

Ernie... the ice man. He always knows where the ice is.

The Eagle. I would fly around the ring and flap my wings and be super American.

Ed Cooley. I’d love to be as dapper as him for just one day.

Keith Connors. I’d love to be that smart.

Green. When I see green, I get sick. Loyola doesn’t have a chance on Friday, by the way.

A toss-up: Clubber Lang or Pedro Cerrano. I ask Jobu to come, take fear from bat. I offer him cigar, rum. He will come.

Mike Krzyzewski. Just to get one step closer to Wojo.

I feel like I can call him Wojo because him and I are so much alike.

‘Ern baby ‘ern.

Keith Connors General Manager

Chris Simmons Managing Editor

Ernie. We have a mutual love for rubber duckies.

Although we don’t go as far as singing in the shower like Tom.

The Soul Crusher. Coming out to “Mighty Mighty” with the high kick. Wishing you all, “Love, Peace ... and SOUL.”

Cal Ripken. I measure myself against him everyday.

Literally. There is a lifesized poster in our living room.

An offensive coordinator for our Powderfuff team.

My defense blitzed all night.

Offensively? You’re killing me, Petey.

A big green tractor. All the ladies could take a ride.

The Taylor Swift/Fairfield concert rumors, and if you think I’m amped, you should see Simmons. By the way, Taylor: it’s a love story. Baby, just say yes.

Tom edited this answer, but let’s just say I thought a cat was trying to get a hairball up Saturday morning.

Sports

Women’s volleyball

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 11, 2009

Stags Clinch MAAC Regular Season Title

By Keith Connors General Manager For five consecutive seasons, volleyball celebrated in November and clinched a Metro Atlantic Athletic Championship (MAAC) crown. Sunday’s convincing 3-1 victory over St. Peter’s this weekend ensured this year is no different for head coach Alija Pittenger and the Stags.

What happens from this point forward, however, will determine whether this season will differ and erase the ghosts of seasons past.

Nonetheless, with the postseason is within reach and the team’s momentum – the Stags have won 12 of the games – seemingly at its peak, Pittenger maintains that the team’s focus is solely on the rest of the regular season.

“This schedule we have is tough,” Pittenger said.

“We have Marist and Iona coming Pittenger here (this weekend). Those are good teams. They battled it out (two weekends) ago.”

“We really don’t have too much room to breathe or to take it easy for that matter,” she added.

It is likely a bit easier to breathe with a regular-season title in hand, but it’s clear that the team value sustaining its recent success for an added boost into the postseason.

In addition, the Stags would love to wrap up the season with two more wins, especially in Sunday’s match at Alumni Hall against Iona. That contest marks the season’s Peter Caty/The Mirror Junior outside hitter Alex Lopez goes up for a ball in practice while her Senior Day and an coach looks on. opportunity for another 20 kill effort, her fourth of the the Stags to honor season, in the team’s victory over the and celebrate their captain, middle Peahens. blocker Katie Mann.

Regardless of the team’s strong Mann, who leads the conferfinish to the regular-season, Pittenger ence in hitting percentage and ranks guarantees that the team will not rest third overall in kills, was very much on its laurels with the postseason the driving force behind the team’s tournament, which begin on Novemsuccess this past weekend. First, in a ber 22 at Canisius in Buffalo, is inchfrenzied 3-2 win over Loyola, Mann ing closer and closer. tallied a team-high 20 kills. That total “Every team, in this league… anyadvanced her even further in the Fairthing can happen in the MAAC,” Pitfield record books, as she now boasts tenger said. “There are plenty of great over 1400 total kills for her career. teams and you’ve got to come ready to A day later, Mann enjoyed anplay. You’ve got to be prepared.” other encore performance in Jersey City against St. Peter’s. In the seasonclinching game, Mann tallied yet

Swimming and Diving

Page 22

Successful Start to Season as Stags Head Toward MAAC Meets

By Tom Cleary Editor in Chief What has already been a record-breaking season is about to pick up for the Stags as they head into the MAAC season. Fairfield was supposed to face Marist at the RecPlex on Saturday afternoon, but a pump failure forced the meet to be moved to Thursday night at 6 p.m.

The men’s side is 2-2 on the season, with wins over Holy Cross and MAAC-foe Saint Peter’s, and losses to Fordham and Providence.

The Stags also finished fourth in the Husky Invite at UConn against five other teams.

Freshman Paul Bimmler won the MAAC Rookie of the Week Award on Bimmler Oct. 20 after three wins in individual events, two that broke records against Holy Cross.

In the match against Providence on Oct. 31, the Stags fell 154-146, and Bimmler won three events again, breaking his own records in two again (50 free and 100 free). The Stags also set a record in the 200m medley. On the boards, senior Taylor Stecko claimed his fourth record, and now owns all Fairfield records in diving. He posted an 11-dive score of 422.17 on the 1-meter, shattering the mark of 414.00 set by Matt Baron in 1992.

The women have also had a successful start, posting a 3-1 record with wins over Holy Cross, Saint Peter’s, and Providence. They finished third in the Husky Invite.

In the 190-107 victory over the Friars on Oct. 31, sophomores Michelle Yoshida and Lauren Kennedy each won three events and were on the 200 meter medley team that also broke a record. Kennedy captured the 100m backstroke in a time of 1:17.98, less than six-tenths off the program record.

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Men’s Basketball

MAAC’n It

Tipping Off Cooley and Stags Start Season with Split of Exhibition Games

By Tom Cleary Editor in Chief

Ali Russoniello/The Mirror

Junior midfielder Matt Ernst heads the ball against Canisius, while sophomore teammate Chris Boyer stands by.

Men’s Soccer Defeats Canisius to Earn Trip To MAAC Tournament, Hosted by Fairfield this Weekend

By Rory Bernier Staff Writer Following a loss to Niagara on Friday night and without their leading scorer, Jack Burridge, for possibly the remainder of the season, the Stags faced elimination from the MAAC playoffs on their Senior Day Sunday at Lessing Field.

But Fairfield was able to battle to a 2-0 victory over Canisius to secure the fourth seed in the MAAC Tournament, which will be played at Fairfield on Friday and Sunday.

This season bares a striking resemblance to last year when the Stags lost to Niagara towards the end of the year. The loss led to a five-game winning streak and MAAC championship.

“We were beaten by the game today,” said head coach Carl Rees following the loss to Niagara. “We were the better side, totally out shot them, totally outplayed them.”

In the opening 30 minutes of the game, Fairfield outshot Niagara by a 6-1 count. At the end of the game Fairfield had ten shots and Niagara had seven. There was no question in Rees’ mind that the team needed to be focused this past weekend in securing a spot in the MAAC tournament.

The first round of the MAAC Tournament is this Friday against big rival Loyola. The last meeting between Loyola and Fairfield ended in a 0-0 tie in which much help was needed from freshman goalie Michael O’Keeffe. Last season the Stags defeated Loyola in the finals of the MAAC Tournament, upsetting the Greyhounds and earning a trip to the NCAA Tournament. For the Stags to repeat, O’Keeffe will need

What to watch for Stags vs. Loyola Greyhounds 11/13/09, 4:30 p.m.

Lessing Field, Fairfield University

another strong showing.

“He just needs to prepare like he did last week and we’ll get to the MAAC Championship and defend the MAAC Championship like we have,” said Assistant Coach Justin Burse. Burse was the starting goalkeeper last year and has been a mentor to O’Keeffe, a New Zealand native, in helping him adjust to the speed of Division 1 soccer.

“It’s going to be heated, it’s going to be close, and it’s going to be an amazing game,” O’Keeffe said.

During the game against Niagara, sophomore forward Jack Burridge, who has a team-high eight goals on the season, fell hard to the ground and needed medical attention.

“Initial reports are that he will be done for the year,” said Rees, who added that Burridge may have ankle ligament damage that would keep him out of the nside page tournament.

“He has been our main Seniors Fight to Finish: goal scorer, but we have plen- More on the men’s soccer ty more people capable of team’s victory. scoring goals,” said O’Keeffe.

After Friday’s loss, the Stags knew that a win against Canisius was crucial in keeping their MAAC playoff hopes alive. Senior Christian Uy scored an early goal to put the Stags ahead and to secure a win.

“It’s always important to score an early goal and set the tone from there,” said Christian Uy. With just under 10 minutes remaining in the half, junior Tucker Nathans made a run down the left side, crossing the ball to the center of the box about four yards from the goal where Shane Kurtz dove for the ball and headed it into the net making it a 2-0 advantage.

According to sophomore Matthew Uy, Christian’s brother, the right mentality is crucial for upcoming opponent Loyola. “It’s going to be a bit of a dog fight,” said Matthew.

“We are preparing for Friday just like any other game this season,” Matthew added.

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Little seems to have changed since last season for the Stags and head coach Ed Cooley. The injuries are already piling up. Three starters from the beginning of last season, Warren Edney, Yorel Hawkins, Greg Nero, all missed parts or all of the exhibition games that started the season. Young players have been thrust into the spotlight and forced into a starting role.

It was a bit of an auspicious start for Fairfield as a result. A loss to the Division II foe University of Bridgeport in Cooley an exhibition game on Friday night. But the Stags were able to bounce back with a victory against Cooley’s alma mater, Stonehill on Monday.

Freshman point guard Derek Needham averaged 16 points in the two games, including a team-high 23 against Stonehill.

Cooley said that with Needham, fellow freshman Colin Nickerson and red-shirt freshman Shimeek Johnson thrust into key roles, it will take time for the Stags to mesh.

“Young team’s grow. It is definitely going to take some time,” Cooley said following the loss to Bridgeport.

“You talk about execution and game-planning, these guys haven’t been through that, at least not to the extent they are now. Knowing the other personnel, knowing your personnel, that is a lot to learn.

“But at the same time I like what I see. I like what I have. I think it is just a matter of time for us to hit our stride,” Cooley added.

Nickerson, who scored 14 points and had four steals against Stonehill, agreed that the move to the college level has been tough.

“It’s a big transition from high school basketball,” Nickerson said. “Tonight was a learning experience and we can’t wait for the next game.”

Fairfield saw limited production from its front line, mainly veterans Anthony Johnson and Mike Evanovich, as well as sophomore Ryan Olander, in the two exhibition games. Johnson missed most of last season after he was hospitalized with a blood clot and just started playing basketball again in the fall.

The Stags season starts quickly with three games in five days, including a trip to play ACC-opponent Maryland, in College Park.

But before that trip the Stags play in the first annual Connecticut Six tournament against Central Connecticut State, at the Arena at Harbor Yard on Friday night. They also face Fordham in Alumni Hall on Sunday night.

The Stags were picked first in the CT Six coaches poll, over Central Connecticut, Sacred Heart, Hartford and Yale. Anthony Johnson was named to the preseason CT Six team.

What to watch for Stags vs. Central Connecticut State 11/13/09, 7:30 p.m.

Arena at Harbor Yard

nextweek in SPORTS: The Award-Winning, Annual ‘Mirror’ Men’s and Women’s Basketball Preview Section!