11/3/2010

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The Reflection of Fairfield

Students Still Unsatisfied with Parking

By Janelle Cecco Contributing Writer

Film Institute See P. 10

The Independent Student Newspaper of Fairfield University

It is 3 a.m. You just finished the tenpage paper you have been working on for the past 12 straight hours. You look outside the windows of the library, and notice that snow has just begun to fall. The thought of walking back to your townhouse alone not only worries you but also seems unbearable due to the cold weather.

It is too late to call a friend. So what do you do?

If you follow the parking rules at Fairfield University, you have no choice but to

take one for the team – or yourself – and make the trek across campus alone.

This is just one example of the frustration undergraduate students feel towards the parking rules and restrictions that are in effect on campus.

Last fall, starting with the class of 2012, Fairfield University decided to only allow upperclassmen to have their cars on campus. This meant, that for freshmen and now sophomores, more cabs and more trips on the Stagbus would be their main form of transportation.

However, the University listened to

Yuri Sendzimir/The Mirror

the views of the students, and started the Hertz car service, where you can rent a car for a few hours, or even a day, depending

Parking | page 5

Fairfield To Host Vigil for Acceptance

By Loan Le Contributing Writer

Does Going Green Save Green?

See P. Photos by Peter Caty/The Mirror

What’s the “Bright” Idea?

By Maggie Andrew Contributing Writer

How was the Concert?

See P. 11

new! Beer Columnist See P. 9

Saturday Rugby See P. 17

With the cold and dark winter months quickly approaching, there is one thing Fairfield students will not need to worry about: being left in the dark!

At all hours of the day, Fairfield is ablaze with light. While it is understandable that dorm hallways and bathrooms are constantly lit, the unnecessary lighting of vacant rooms and unused buildings has warranted negative attention. Some of these concerns are understandable; however, this important issue should be looked at from both perspectives.

Our campus already boasts environmentally friendly features that tremendously reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, but many hope that the issue of unnecessary lighting can be incorporated into future endeavors to further improve Fairfield’s carbon footprint.

Dr. David Downie, the Director of Fairfield’s Program on the Environment, represents both perspectives of this environmentally sensitive issue. He is the first to admit that, “while Fairfield has done a lot, it doesn’t mean there is not more to be done.”

Not many students are aware that the heat-

ing, cooling and electricity on campus are provided by our own cogeneration plant. This method is much more efficient, providing over 95% of our power and producing only half of the greenhouse gases that our campus would be responsible for if these services were bought from an outside source.

While many believe the cogeneration plant and the geothermal system at the Jesuit residence shows Fairfield’s dedication to environmental issues, the lighting of the construction sites, library and the BCC leaves others doubtful.

LEAF, Fairfield’s environmental issues club, strives to find realistic solutions to energy problems. Their efforts have recently resulted in last month’s Farm-to-Chef Harvest week. Senior Gina Caldwell, the President of LEAF, shares the concerns of many over the excessive lighting in the library and the BCC at all hours of the day and night. While the typical response is that these lights are to assist the cleaning crews and for safety reasons, LEAF is in the process of working towards a suitable compromise.

Lights regulated by timers and motion sensors are an understandable option, but

Footprint | page 5

Above: Construction lights illuminate the new dorm near the Apartments and Suites.

Below: The 25 light posts down the center of Loyola Drive.

Fairfield University Reaches Out to the LGBTQ Community The country was stricken to hear about that the suicide of Tyler Clementi, who was bullied for his sexual orientation. Two students at Rutgers University, where Clementi was a student, reportedly taped him having a homosexual relationship that led to his jumping off of the George Washington Bridge. The case cast light on other cyber bullying incidents, catching the attention of educational institutions all around.

In light of these tragic events, Fairfield University held a series of events in October to educate students on the history, culture, and future of LGBTQ community. Now, Fairfield continues to fight intolerance by organizing a vigil that invites all members of the University’s community to show support for those who have or are being bullied.

On Wednesday November 3, at 5:30 p.m., Candlelight Vigil for Acceptance will take place at Chapel Plaza to honor the victims of homophobia and cyber bullying.

The event is being coordinated by Campus Ministry, the Office of Residence Life, and the Office of Student Diversity. Kevin Donohue, the Campus Minister, encourages students, “to attend to acknowledge and mourn the tragedy of homophobic bullying in [our] society and on college campuses, and to state clearly that Fairfield University is a community of tolerance and mutual respect.”

Students seem to agree with Donohue. “I think that it’s an issue that is misunderstood by a lot of people and anything you can do to shed light on it takes courage. If you see an injustice, if you don’t stand up for it, who will?” Cara Kallem’13 commented.

Dennis Hodgson, a Fairfield Professor of Sociology and Anthropology, says, “Hopefully, everyone who attends the Vigil will be sensitized to the homophobic slurs and slights that can occur in everyday life and which we often let slide by without negative comment.

Speaking up in such everyday situations is the best way to let those who don’t share our community’s commitment to inclusiveness know that they are in the minority.”

This effort to ease the woes of the LGBTQ community does not stop here. Fairfield University offers other resources on campus for help. Trevor Project is a crisis intervention hotline (866-488-7386) that operates to provide help to LGBTQ youth.

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

News

McMahon Makes Appearance At Fairfield

Page 2

Republican Candidate Linda McMahon takes questions from Fairfield Students on Wednesday.

Republican Senate Candidate Linda McMahon met with students on campus during a “Meet and Greet.”

By Annie Rooney Executive Editor A last minute campus email was sent out Wednesday announcing that Linda McMahon would arrive at Fairfield University the next afternoon to speak briefly on her 2010 campaign as the Republican Senate candidate for Connecticut.

“Vote for me,” McMahon said as she welcomed the attentive crowd with smiles. Fairfield College Republican Chairman Connor Wolfarth ’12 optimistically introduced candidate McMahon as Connecticut’s next Senator.

After resigning as CEO of her company, the WWE, last year, McMahon entered the Senate race because of an incredible concern with the direction of the government. Talk of increasing taxes over reducing spending motivated her to take action.

While many students are familiar with McMahon because of her successful WWE entertainment enterprise, on October 28 McMahon was engaging and positive as she spoke on her aspirations to make changes in the White House, specifically the failed economic policies.

She detailed her campaign thus far, which took her through 50,000 miles of Connecticut soil to speak with her fellow state citizens and listen to their concerns. “I’ve been bankrupt. I know what that’s like,” she said, relating her profes-

sional experience to the many who oppose the tax increases.

“I pride myself as former CEO,” she stated and she plans on taking those skills to Washington in January 2011.

McMahon promised to protect the owners of small business and allow the free market to grow and work through the return to a smaller government. A reinstatement of discretionary spending plus saving the unspent stimulus money is what McMahon plans to do in order to reduce the country’s current 13 trilliondollar debt.

Although she said her political work is not shaping Students come to support Republican Senate Candidate Linda Photos by Peter Caty/The Mirror McMahon despite the short notice. a new mid-life career, she will continue for a second term if the people of Connecticut are happy. As an outsider, McMahon Matthew Morrisey ‘13 was able to provide the University was nothing short of excited to be voted into the Senate and and its students with this unique opportunity to hear begin challenging the traditional as a fresh voice.

McMahon speak. Morrissey said the event was officiated in Through a last minute effort by the University club, less than 24 hours.

“Bullycide” A Sadly New Pandemic

By Kelly Belchere Contributing Writer

“Jumping off the gw bridge sorry.” This Facebook status was the last anyone heard of 18-year-old Tyler Clementi before he committed suicide after his roommate secretly taped and broadcasted him having relations with another male.

15-year-old Phoebe Prince, a high school freshman, endured relentless bullying after a brief romance with a senior football player. After the constant bullying became too much to handle, Phoebe hung herself in her closet.

A 16-year-old Croatian girl, Sladjana Vidovic killed herself because students teased her about her accent.

These three young students, as different as they are, share one commonality: they all took their own lives as a result of bullying gone too far.

Bullycide is another word for a suicide as a result of bullying. The recent suicides of five teenagers, who were literally bullied to death, serve as hard proof that it is a real threat and must be stopped. The old age method, which calls for ignoring the bully or telling him or her to “stop it” has proved to be hopeless. The truth is bullying is hard to prevent especially when it’s done online, in the form of cyber bullying.

According to a recent survey conducted

by Dan Olweus, the proclaimed founding father of research on bullying issues, 17 percent of American students, grades 3 to 12, reported being bullied two to three times a month or more within a school semester.

The National Education Association estimates that more than 160,000 children miss

school every day because of fear of attack or intimidation by other students.

These statistics are disheartening when we consider the fact that 40 states have some sort of law that makes bullying illegal. For example, in Conn., Governor Jodi Rell signed an anti-bullying law in 2008. This law, a revision of a previous law in 2002, required each Connecticut school board to develop and implement a prevention and intervention strategy to put a stop to bullying.

It required schools to investigate all reports of suspected bullying and hold interventions with the bully, victim and each student’s parents.

It mandated each school board to submit its bullying policy to the State Department of Education by February 2009 and to annually report the number of verified acts of bullying to them.

In addition, the law changed the definition of bullying from “ridiculing, harassing, humiliating or intimidating acts repeated over time” to acts “committed more than once against any student during the school year.” The law included other specific requirements like mandatory bullying prevention training for teachers, administrators and pupil personnel and consistent monitoring of students in hallways, outdoor areas, the lunchroom, and other specific areas where bullying is likely to occur. With

such a solid and exacting prevention policy in place, it is a wonder to think bullying is still as prevalent as recent studies show.

According to the 2010 report by the State Department of Education, by February 2009, less than one-third of districts sent a copy of their plan to the state. State records also show that 29 school districts, charter schools and state schools did not report any incidents of bullying in the schools years 2006-2007, 2007-2008 or 2008-2009.

The executive director of the Connecticut Commission on Children Elaine Zimmerman calls these statistics “questionable.” After considering these statistics, it is not unreasonable to speculate that the problem with bullying does not necessarily lie in the policies to prevent it but rather in the failure of the schools to properly implement them. Here are some examples.

Take the case of Tyler Clementi. After discovering his roommate had video tapped him having sexual relations with another male, he reportedly complained about his roommate to the residential advisor at his University and requested a room change. However he made his thoughts clear when he tweeted “The school (probably) won’t do much of anything”.

In the case of Phoebe Prince, Phoebe’s

mother reportedly went to school officials and told them that her daughter was being bullied and something needed to be done. However, it is clear that not enough if anything was done because Phoebe hung herself a week after this.

Anti-bullying policies and reported cases of bullying are not being taken seriously. A majority of educational institutions have anti-harassment policies in place but fail to enforce them. For example at Rutgers University where Tyler Clementi was a freshman, a clearly defined Student Verbal Assault, Harassment and Defamation Policy was already in place before the incident.

After Clementi’s suicide the New Jersey Senator Frank Lautenberg spoke of plans to introduce a federal legislation that will require colleges and universities to have anti-harassment policies. But the University, as many do, already has a policy intact. The policies failed Clemnti; the interpretation had to have been taken more seriously.

The only foreseeable way to prevent bullying is for schools to ensure that they have strong anti-bullying and harassment policies in place and are implementing them effectively. When bullying is reported, schools should waste no time investigating immediately.

Also, it is necessary for victims of bullying to feel safe and supported. Schools should take compulsory steps to make certain that victims of bullying are not at risk.

Overall, schools, parents and the like should educate children about the potentially serious consequences of bullying and the importance of accepting differences.

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

News

Page 3

400,000 Secret US War Documents Leaked onto Internet Headlines from around the world

By Andoni Flores Entertainment Editor On approximately Oct. 22, 2010 the online organization Wikileaks.org leaked 400,000 secret US military documents onto the Internet that has lead the United Nations call on the US to investigate whether its officials knew about this torture and ill-treatment of detainees by the Iraqi security forces.

The documents revealed disturbing information regarding details of the Iraq war. According to one article

by The BCC “the files show the US kept records of civilian deaths, despite previously denying it. The death toll was put at 109,000, of whom 66,081 were civilians.”

One document found on the Wikileaks website revealed that one detainee “received extensive medical care at the Mosul General Hospital, resulting in amputation of his right leg below the knee several toes on his left foot, as well as amputation of several fingers on both hands. Extensive scars resulted from the chemical/acid burns, which were diagnosed as 3rd degree chemical burns along with skin decay.”

The document revealed that the “Victim was captured by the IA [Iraqi Army] on ___ June ___ by IA and transferred to the ___. When questioned about terrorism activities, the victim alleges that LT , ___ Lieutenant Colonel ___ by pouring chemicals on his hands, cut his fingers off, and hid him when Coalition Forces visited the ___.” The document also stated that The Mosul Major Terrorism Unit had begun an investigation into the case and warrants were issued but no arrests were made.

According to an article by The Guardian the link between the US and the torture of Iraqis is even more explicit stating that “In Samarra, the series of log entries in 2004 and 2005 describe repeated raids by US infantry, who then

handed their captives over to the Wolf Brigade for ‘further questioning’.” Later explaining that the Wolf Brigade was created and supported by the US in an attempt to “re-employ elements of Saddam Hussein’s Republican Guard, this time to terrorise insurgents.” According to the article they have been accused by Iraqis of beating prisoners, torturing them with electric drills and sometimes executing suspects.

News of the leak has been slow to reach campus, several students interviewed for this article had no idea it had happened. One such student was Nargis Alizada ‘12, a member of the Muslim Student Association, who stated that “Living on a college campus, I feel as though this news should be made into a big notice. As a college student myself, I unfortunately wasn’t much aware of this leak/news.

Our government needs to be more honest with the actions taken in abroad countries with money that the citizens of this country have paid.”

Jackie Kremer, the reference librarian encouraged “all students to reflect upon Wikileaks and its practice of online publishing of classified US military documents. As a free society, open access to information is essential. We balance that open access with our concern for establishing a secure nation and consideration of domestic and international security concerns.”

The day the leaks went public there was no visible student outcry, nor was there any the next day or the following weeks, which gave the appearance of an apathetic student populous.

But John F. Suggs, Assistant Director for the Center for Faith and Public Life argues that it isn’t apathy. “I prefer to understand the issue of disengagement as one of compassion fatigue. Consider the level of information overload encountered by our students in tangent with a growing sense of powerlessness in the face of adversity and complexity.”

A Jesuit and A Businessman Walk Into Wall Street

By Laura O’Reilly Contributing Writer

Barack Obama. Oprah Winfrey. Jesus Christ. Typically, these people come to mind when you think of a leader.

However, Chris Lowney, a former Jesuit seminarian and Managing Director of JP Morgan Chase & Co, encouraged Fairfield University students to add another name to the list; their own.

Lowney spoke about the stereotype surrounding the association of leaders with someone in charge, like a president or a celebrity. He said that “this notion is part of the problem” within our society today. What constitutes a leader should be less about social status and have more of a focus on the influence a person has on others.

“We are all leaders,” said Lowney, during a presentation given Monday night in the Oak Room to an audience of mostly business students.

Lowney has had experiences with many different kinds of leaders, from the Jesuits to Wall Street CEOs. After growing up in Queens, New York and graduating from high school, Lowney lived as Jesuit seminarian for seven years until he realized that the life of a priest wasn’t meant for him. He then made the transition into corporate America by becoming the Managing Director of JP Morgan Chase & Co, where he stayed for seventeen years. He left the company in 2001 and has since published two award-winning books.

Lowney’s transition from a leadership position in the church to a major leader in business was not as difficult as one would suspect. He said that his success at JP

Morgan was influenced by his experience with the Jesuits and his knowledge of the Jesuit values.

Many students may not think that the values they learned during their Freshman Year Experience class would have any importance to their future, but Lowney is an example that the Jesuits’ definition of excellence may be what business leaders should look to improve their lives and their profits. He encouraged the students to seek self-awareness and criticism because the key to success is to “have a strong sense of who they are.”

Dr. Donald E. Gibson, Chair of the Management Department at the Dolan School of Business, required many of his students to attend the event in hopes that they would develop their leadership skills and learn from Lowney’s ability to transform his career in the dynamic world of today.

Gibson said that he wanted his students to understand that “you don’t always know where your life is going to lead.”

Those in attendance left the lecture with a new understanding of leadership. Peter Colgan ’13 walked away feeling more confident in his abilities as a leader and his choice to pursue an occupation as an accountant. “Mr. Lowney really helped me to understand how to become an effective leader while also keeping my Jesuit values,” he said.

To be successful on Wall Street, or whatever street you end up on, Lowney says that a young business student should hold on to the Jesuit ideals of heroism, self-awareness, ingenuity and love and therefore spend “less time watching (television’s “The) Apprentice, imitating Donald Trump.”

Illustration by Tebben Lopez/The Mirror

“Keeping the Feast” Not What You Think

By Elizabeth Koubek Contributing Writer People often view food as either an opiate or an enemy; in Paula Butturini’s case it was like a hero. It served as the only constant in a life that was filled with despair, depression, suicide and so much more.

Imagine in a three year period, during which you were severely beaten during a peaceful march in Prague by Czechoslovakian police, your husband was shot by a sniper in Romania, and then your mother committed suicide. This was the life of Paula Butturini, a journalist of international affairs and author of the memoir “Keeping the Feast”.

She spoke at Fairfield University on Thursday afternoon and discussed not only her book, but also the tragic events in her life. “[My memoir deals with] talking about the unspeakable by way of the edible,” she said as she introduced the memoir.

Butturini explained how food was the key aspect because it was the unifying member of her family. From family dinners on Sunday at her grandparents to spending time in the garden, she explained how food ties us into creation, our cells tied to our spirit.

This idea of food as a center played into her life later on as well.

During her husband’s struggles with mental disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and depression, the only peaceful

time they shared was around the table. The three meals they ate together daily were the only moments they sat in some sort of harmony.

Throughout her talk, Butturini was very composed and kept her emotions in check as the audience filling the library media room listened trying to comprehend her life story, unable to control their’s. She spoke about tales of hardships that the majority of people will never experience; yet she dealt with in a such a short span of time.

As her closing remarks, Butturini advised the audience on the seriousness of mental illness. “If clinical depression strikes, hang on until the end, like a fever

it eventually will break,” she said. She then gave her audience warning signs and things to look for in those possibly battling depression and what to do.

Sophomore Megan Vigliotti said, “I thought the presentation would be more related to Italian, but she is a good speaker who is very comfortable at telling her story.” Others stated that they weren’t aware of the purpose this presentation before attending, and were shocked at what they found.

Gianna Marro’13 said, “Originally I came here for extra credit, but I was truly moved by her speech, this woman has been through so much and its is very commendable that she’s standing strong and trying to help others.”

News

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Campus Crime Beat

Tuesday, October 26th 10:40 p.m. Two traffic signs were ripped from the ground. Maintenance notified 10:47 p.m. Narcotics violation at a Residence Hall. Fairfield Police Department was notified.

Students referred to Student Conduct Thursday, October 28th 6:59 p.m. Three car motor vehicle accident at the intersection of Bellarmine Road and Coughlin Road. No injuries reported Friday, October 29th 12:07 p.m. Students dressed as Storm troopers were found pointing facsimile weapons at vehicles at checkpoint

Saturday, October 30th Morning of: Two vehicles were vandalized in the Kelley East lot. Incident caught on camera. Contact Public Safety if you have any information.

9:10 a.m. Water main break at the Village East lot, which required vehicles to

Mirror Meetings 6:30 p.m.

Every Wednesday Lower BCC

be relocated 1:54 p.m. Stolen bicycle was reported stolen 4:49 p.m. Cable wires were pulled out of the main connection box at the Townhouses 11:23 p.m. Student documented for noncompliance at Townhouses. Students referred to Student Conduct Sunday, October 31th 9:14 a.m. Fairfield Police notified of narcotics violation at the Townhouses 5:11 p.m. Table was found vandalized in community room at the Village

8:18 p.m. Fairfield Police notified of narcotics violation at a Residence Hall. Students involved referred to Student Conduct 10:51 p.m. Narcotics violation at a Residence Hall. Students referred to Student Conduct Monday, November 1st 9:00 a.m. Fight was reported. Those involved were identified and referred to Student Conduct

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The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

News

Parking Continued from page 1 on your needs.

But, the restrictions of parking, contingent upon the color sticker you are issued, still cause some problems for the students, mostly juniors and commuters, on campus.

“I think it is stressful that we can only park at the townhouses because when it is raining or gets really cold, it’s a far walk to the classroom buildings,” said Chloe Carlino ’12, “I also think we should be able to park in the lot behind the Rec Plex or Quick Center for the library especially if students stay late and have to walk all the way back in the dark,” she said.

When heavy rain or a type of storm is suspected, the University has sent out a message that there will be a temporary campus shuttle. But long gone are the days when students, especially in Dolan and the Townhouses, were able to catch the campus shuttle that used to run about every 15 minutes.

In addition, in a survey of 25 commuter students, 18 expressed frustration with not being able to park in the BCC lot. This was mainly due to the fact that their lounge is located in the BCC, where they meet with friends and study.

At Fairfield University, there are eight different parking decals issued to undergraduates, graduate students, commuters, faculty and administration. However, the parking lots allotted per decal, seems skewed toward undergraduate

Footprint

Continued from page 1

they prove to be costly alternatives in a year when our campus is clamoring with construction. Dr. Downie admits that while these other options are expensive, they will eventually save money, as well as electricity, over time.

Caldwell is also hopeful that Gina Caldwell’11 a solution will eventually arise, as Fairfield has been responsive to the concerns of LEAF in the past. She recognizes past improvements, which include “lightless lunches, where the lights are

students.

“A lot of my classes are in Canisius, and during the day, the lots get filled quickly,” said Kara Halligan, ’11. “I don’t think it is fair that I can’t park behind a freshman lot without receiving a ticket when there is no space, especially when underclassmen can’t have their cars on campus.”

“There are more ‘green’ parking permits issued,” said John Ritchie from the Department of Public Safety. “This is due to the number of commuter students, University College students and graduate students who are eligible for a green permit.”

Ironically, the color green, is popular in more ways then one, when referring to parking at Fairfield University. Not only is it the most popular parking decal than can be found on campus but, it is representative of Fairfield University’s attempt at becoming a green campus.

“Fairfield University is diligently trying to make the campus a pedestrian safe environment while encouraging our community members to go green,” said Ritchie. “Some of the traffic and parking regulations have been designed to encourage people to walk on campus rather than drive, which satisfies both goals as we reduce the amount of traffic while decreasing unnecessary fuel consumption.”

Although traffic and parking ticket fees are consistent from last year to this year, the prices range from $20 to $150.

For example, parking in the wrong lot warrants a ticket anywhere within the above price range.

According to the Bursar’s office, the money received from ticket payments, is placed into a general revenue fund.

off in the main cafeteria if there is enough external light to still let people dine in comfort.” Aside from an environmental standpoint, this issue takes on a new dimension when you consider how it represents our school.

The excessive number of streetlights welcoming visitors to Fairfield (there are 25 light posts down the center of Loyola Drive) and the constant lighting that shines from the library can also be interpreted as symbols of our school. Our pride is manifested in our appearance.

The numerous lights are in themselves environmentally friendly and conserve much less energy than typical lights.

David Frassinelli, the Director of Facilities Management, explains that much of the excess lighting in the library is required by code. However, there are significantly fewer lights on over night than there have been in the past, and old bulbs

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Page 5

Mirror File Photo

With all of the construction being done on campus, students’ frustrations have risen, due to the restricted number of parking spaces, especially near the Village.

“Improvements are viewed differently – the reallocation of the Quick Center parking lot has vastly improved Quick Center operations and has resulted in a decrease in staffing requirements for events,” said Ritchie. “Students of course will view the reallocation as a hindrance.”

Improvements are great for the University, but as stated above, interfere with the campus life of the existing students and community members on campus.

Maybe a focus on what the students want on a daily basis rather than a more efficient way to less frequent Quick Center events, would make Fairfield less red in the face, and more red close to their hearts.

are being replaced with LED lighting fixtures. This efficient alternative uses 97 watts instead of the typical 250, and the new fixtures ensure that the light shines down and does not contribute light pollution by illuminating the entire area.

Fairfield has made such dramatic improvements in terms of our energy use that the school will receive an EPA national award for Energy Efficiency in the coming weeks.

While Fairfield is doing its part to reduce our carbon footprint, the students also play a large part in this issue. Flat screen TVs and microwaves should be unplugged over break to benefit both the appliances and to reduce our energy use.

So here’s the bright idea: conserve energy, resources and our valuable tuition money, and do your part to help reduce our energy use!

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Opinion

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Opinion | 7 Editor Elizabeth Connors » opinion@fairfieldmirror.com

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Stags Grounds Stay Secure

editorial Peter Caty | Editor-in-Chief Annie Rooney | Executive Editor Dan Leitao | Managing Editor Elizabeth Connors | Opinion Editor

Student Voices Lack Volume Last week The Mirror received an anonymous note expressing displeasure with some of our writing. While we’re happy to receive the feedback, we would have appreciated knowing who wrote it so we could meet and work out a proactive compromise.

Instances like this prove that there are still people who care enough about what goes on around campus to do something about it. However the ‘something’ is typically never more than a complaint.

Looking through The Mirror archives from ten years ago, we can’t help but wonder if student apathy on campus has increased to a point where emotional interest and concern for campus life is nonexistent. The Mirror used to receive letters by the dozen, with multiple letters running in the paper every week. These letters ranged in topics from Mirror content, national issues, calling out or commending certain people, campus observances, and problems faced by students, faculty, staff and town residents.

Today, we’re lucky if we receive one a month.

It appears that students on campus today aren’t caring enough to step outside of their dorm room to raise their voice or get involved.

The University is not only wasting paper with the flyer-loaded corkboards in the academic buildings, they’re wasting their time as students continue to hardly attend campus events and activities. Tuition is in the $50,000 range, and after graduation most students only have a diploma to show for it. It seems the only incentive to attend the many influential events is extra credit opportunities from professors.

We imagine there are many unspoken voices that remain concealed through this increased apathy and we want to express our desire to hear them. This independently run student newspaper is theoretically in control by the four names listed above, and we’re college students taking on a full academic schedule like you. Take the time to write us a letter, drop us an email, or come by the office and be proud of your opinion.

The campus already psychically places us inside the North Face and Ugg boot filled bubble.

Don’t be afraid to make an attempt to break free.

And no, the ‘too busy’ excuse is not a sufficient plea.

The Mirror welcomes the opinions and contributions of its readers:

Security was heightened on campus this past weekend to accommodate rumors of gang violence. Luckily, no incidents occurred.

Have an opinion? Send it to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com.

Spending Green To Go Green

By Robert Belfiore Contributing Writer

It’s not hard to tell that “green” ways of living have been dominating our lives for the past ten or so years. Every time you turn on the T.V. there is a new eco-friendly car or an energy saving refrigerator available for purchase. This eco-friendly movement began as the result of new problems that our world has had to face. Rising fuel costs, the threat of global warming and pollution have created a sense of hysteria and a need to clean up and conserve.

From this need comes a great market. Today, nearly all companies are trying to sell their “eco-friendly” products.

Poland Spring now makes their bottles with smaller caps and thinner plastic walls, accounting for 20 percent less plastic.

Sun Chips offers a fully compostable (and incredibly loud) bag. Car companies are constantly competing over who sells the most fuel efficient hybrid cars. Currently, the 2010 Toyota Prius leads the pack with a fuel economy of 51 m.p.g. city and 48 m.p.g. highway.

It’s great that companies and consumers are favoring these types of products, but we have to realize where the motives behind this need to conserve lie: Money. Cold hard cash. For them, there are two direct benefits of “going green.”

Less plastic means less plastic purchasing. As an added bonus, they know that the typical shopper will be more likely to buy a product that’s “green.”

If we all legitimately cared about the environment, we would go green even if it meant spending more money.

However, the sad truth is that the mass consumer (myself included) would never go through that trouble. It is completely reasonable and understandable to not go green unless it saves money.

For example, we’ve been hearing about solar panels for so long now. So why doesn’t every house in Fairfield have

Notable and Quotable

Letters to the editor must be timely and submitted in person at BCC 104, or by email at opinion@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.

solar panels? For the normal consumer these panels are incredibly expensive as well as inefficient. Discovery News reports that commercial solar panels convert anywhere from only 3.3 to 15 percent of the sunlight into usable electricity.

To make matters worse, they need to be maintained because of dust accumulation clogging the system.

Although, according to Popular Mechanics, the government will provide an incentive of 30 percent tax credit on solar equipment, for most of us the price is still not worth the benefits. No reasonable person would buy an expensive solar panel if they knew they weren’t going to make their investment back, and then some.

Gary McCann ’11 admits, “In this economy, I need to conserve my money. I can’t afford to go green unless it saves my wallet.”

The mass consumer needs a tangible benefit for their “green” actions. The thought of saving a fish from a pond is not nearly as exciting as the thought of a new iPod. I’ve come across some people in my day that may not agree with my logic. Just make sure that are you are not hypocritical.

For example, many moons ago I was introduced to a website called blackle.com which is the eco-friendly version of google.com. The screen is primarily black, because the white background generates more light and thus more electricity. Under the search box there is a box that displays exactly how much energy was saved. According to the website, this number is just over 2 million Watt-hours. The Energy Information Administration lists average U.S. residential electricity prices at 11.23 cents per kwh, as of February 2009.

With some simple math, I discovered that blackle has saved the public a whopping $225 since its inception.

At this point, if you really want to do your part, your best bet is to email the Chinese government and tell them to clear the smog in Hong Kong.

"You don't always know where your life is going to lead."

- Dr. Donald E. Gibson, chair of the Managment Department

Letters should not exceed 500 words.

Stags Who Voted

Bookstore Bag Policy

No matter who you voted for in the midterm elections, the important thing is you did. Congrats on not just complaining, but actually doing something about it. Another 'Stags Up' goes to the fact that we won't be receiving automated political phone calls anymore. Enjoy your dinner in peace!

The bookstore's policy to make us leave our bags outside deters many students from wanting to shop there. We don't want to leave our bags, especially when they contain expensive electronics and personal items, in an unmonitored pile in the hall. Maybe if the book store lowered their sky-high prices, the threat of shoplifters wouldn't be so great.

Opinion

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

StagAlert Not Keeping Stags Alert

By Courtney Todd Contributing Writer

A few weeks ago I recieved a call from the StagAlert emergency notification system conducting a test. I answered, but quickly hung up as soon as I heard the automated voice and knew it was from the University. I later found out what the call was and that it was just a drill. But if there were a real emergency would I have gotten the message?

With many students getting these calls, we have to wonder if these StagAlert calls are effective. A lot of the time when students get these calls they are unable to answer.

For example, if a student is in class they can’t just answer their phone and wouldn’t get the message until after they listened to the voicemail. StagAlerts are also sent through text message but this doesn’t make them any more effective.

When a student sees a StagAlert text they might just think it’s a drill and not read through the whole message.

I don’t think these StagAlert calls and texts are fully effective in reaching all students in the case of an emergency. We do have to remember that if there ever was a real emergency, students would hear about it from other students and take the necessary actions towards safety.

Still, that doesn’t mean the StagAlerts are fully effective in reaching all students.

When asked, a few students said they didn’t even receive the StagAlerts. Lindsay Maida ’14 said, “I didn’t even get the StagAlert test call and text so I would say it’s ineffective.”

Then there are students who simply don’t answer.

Several students said they wouldn’t answer a call with the University’s phone number on it in fear of getting in trouble. Allie Flannery ’14, more in favor of the text message method stated, “I think the texts are more effective than the phone calls because I wouldn’t answer a call with the University’s number on it.”

Students honestly just don’t want to be bothered and who can blame them? Who knows what kind of call is on the other end with the University’s number on it? There’s also an email that gets sent out, but not everyone gets email sent to their phone or checks their email constantly, especially if they are out and about. So I would say of all the ways to alert students, email would be the least effective.

There really seems to be too many faults and cracks in this system for it to be fully effective, but Jamie Salazer ’14 disagrees, “I think it’s effective. I mean how else would people know?”

The StagAlert emergency notification system in theory is definitely a good idea, but there are some kinks that need to be worked out for it to be fully effective. If that happens,

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Illustration by Vin Ferrer/The Mirror

there is a much better chance of StagAlert running smoothly.

It is inevitable that the StagAlert system will not work for all students but the best advice I can give to students for StagAlert to be more effective is when you get a call from the University, take it if you can, when you get a text read the whole thing, and try to check your e-mail more frequently.

It’s not that StagAlert is completely ineffective, it’s just that there are certain situations where it may not be successful.

A Whole New Level of Facebook Stalking

By Dan Leitao Managing Editor

Peter Caty/The Mirror

Obama-Mania Starting to Fade

By David Weis Contributing Writer Why do people hate Obama so much? Is it his performance as a President in his almost-2 year tenure? His ideals?

His writings? His looks, speech, actions or family?

No, I don’t think it is any of these. Just as quickly as it was a “fad” to love Obama, with Obama ’08 shirts circulating around in Hollywood and among the most politically ignorant people one would ever meet, it has turned into an equally popular fad to hate the President. One cannot start a political conversation without someone saying, “Yeah, Obama sucks.”

But why does he suck? Whenever I ask that question of the disgruntled politico, I get a stammering of “socialist agenda,” “liberal media,” “healthcare reform,” and “crappy economy.” Beyond that, there is typically no other intelligent response. Is providing healthcare to those who cannot afford it a socialist conspiracy? Is providing unemployment to those who lost their jobs as a result of an economic meltdown an Obama secret mission to drain the funds of America? Certainly not. He is simply doing exactly what he said he would.

In this situation, providing these monetary benefits is a “damned-if-you-do, damned-if-you-don’t” situation.

A close friend of mine’s uncle lost his well-paying job due to the downturn of the economy. Unemployed for several months, but actively looking for jobs, he began receiving benefits in the mail. However, this man complained about it nonstop. “That Obama, giving money to those who can’t get off their butts and work,” he’d say. And yet after all this complaining, this man still went to the bank and cashed the check - irony at its finest. Obama is helping to put food on your table and keeping a roof over your head, so don’t complain unless you decide to rip up that check as soon as you get it.

Whenever I hear about this “liberal media bias” I can’t help but shake my head. Of course the media has bias – look at the cities of origin! The New York Times, The Washington Post, The San Francisco Chronicle - all are cities that have been liberal for decades. If you picked up the Chattanooga Times or whatever they have, I’m sure it

would have a little less of a liberal twist, considering it’s from Tennessee.

Healthcare reform conjures up images of long waiting lines, underpaid doctors, awful health practices…but for what? The main point of the bill, one that Obama supported, is to make sure that everybody had insurance. The government didn’t do a massive overhaul of the system to provide everybody with the same healthcare, same doctors and same coverage. Just ask the company my mom works for; if there was truly a socialized healthcare system, this company wouldn’t be paying tens of thousands of dollars to ensure that my mom, my brother and I are covered.

Communist universal healthcare? Not even close.

This last point of contention, a crappy economy, is what really gets me mad. How can someone blame a president for the state of the economy if he took office after the meltdown? To any intelligent observer it makes no sense.

Economies follow a wave pattern; there are peaks and there are troughs, ups and downs. During Bill Clinton’s terms as President, the economy was in high gear.

During Bush’s years, people spent the money they earned, without regard to their future ability to pay for it. And finally, during Obama’s years, these same people are foreclosed, homeless, penniless and jobless.

It’s the collective policies of administrations dating back to Reagan’s administration that have caused this downturn. At the time, the policies seemed prudent, but now we’re kicking ourselves. Don’t blame Obama for your overspending, over borrowing and over excess. Buying that million-dollar house with no money as a down payment, when you made $80,000 last year was just a dumb idea.

Now Obama is bailing your broke self out, at the cost to those who actually planned their money and future well.

Complain about that.

This article is an oversimplification of complex problems, but I’m just hitting the basics. Next time someone complains about Obama, at least you, the reader, has a basis to work from. And I’m not even a Democrat, in many ways. I’m a liberal Republican who can actually discern the facts from the fiction. So before anybody calls me an Obama-loving fool, consider your facts and keep in mind that I typically vote Republican.

While browsing on my Sunday hangover cure, Facebook, I became baffled when I discovered that “Wall To Wall” was gone. Quite possibly one of the greatest unchanged Facebook features since I joined Facebook in early 2006, has been changed

by Mark Zuckerberg.

Zuckerberg is once again dictating what we are able to “like” or unable to “dislike” and other ways we interact with our friends on Facebook. Many Facebook users, by now, will have realized that “Wall To Wall” has disappeared and been replaced with “Friendships,” the newest way to stalk people. Let the “Pages” and “Groups” voicing their distaste for this feature begin.

Here’s how it works. When one is a mutual friend with two people on Facebook they are able to view the two users’ “Friendship,” Facebook’s way of documenting the two users’ interactions together. This includes photos they are both in, wall posts and comments between them, pages liked, mutual friends, and even events attended together.

In my exploring Friendships between people I knew, including family members, I realized it doesn’t really depict my true

“Friendships,” but just ones most active on Facebook.

The most annoying part of this entire change however, is the loss of being able to write on someone’s wall after clicking “Wall To Wall” to see the most recent wall posts. “Wall To Wall” allowed me to see the back and forth I had with a person and would even be allowed to write directly back on the person’s wall, something no longer possible in “Friendships.”

“Friendships” is not as drastic a change as “News Feed” and “Most Recent” which were accosted for being a stalker’s dream. However, it is once again making our interactions on Facebook much more visible and easier to view. Simply another reminder that everything we put on Facebook is on Facebook for everyone to see.

This marks the three largest changes that Facebook has added since the start of first semester. The addition of “New Groups” and higher quality photos are two more features Facebook has given us to aid our procrastination. These features have been slowly adopted by college students, but neither is as influential as the addition of “Friendships,” a concept that has been around for thousands of years but that Facebook has now redefined.

Illustration by Dan Leitao/The Mirror

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Features

Online

Send your thoughts to features@fairfieldmirror.com.

Features | 9 Editor Devon Porrino » features@fairfieldmirror.com

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Oscar Winner Plans Visit to Campus

By Meg McCaffrey Contributing Writer On Oct. 22 Filmmaker Kimberly Peirce, who directed Hilary Swank’s Oscar-winning turn in “Boys Don’t Cry” and the 2008 feature film, “Stop Loss,” will speak at a Fairfield University “Reel Women” event, on Monday, Nov. 8 at 5:15 p.m. Peirce, who has won an array of awards from film critics’ associations, will talk about the challenges and rewards of working in film. Her appearance will follow a 3pm screening of “Boys Don’t Cry” in the same space, the library’s multimedia room.

Open to the public, the event will be held in the Multimedia Room of the DiMenna Nyselius Library, on the Fairfield campus. Admission is free.

“Reel Women” is a faculty-student group that was launched spring of last year. Started by women faculty in the Program in New Media, Film, Television and Radio, “Reel Women” engages staff members and students from a variety of disciplines in examining films by, for, and about women as well as in the creation and critique of media with an eye toward gender issues.

“We see this event as an opportunity for students to understand film better as a narrative art that opens viewers to experiences and world views different from their own,” said Elizabeth Haas, Ph.D., a visiting professor in the New Media Program and “Reel Women” member. “It will also undoubtedly be a chance for students to gain insight into the art of filmmaking from a screenwriter-director as successful, topical, yet fiercely original as Ms. Peirce.”

During her day-long visit to the Fairfield campus, Peirce, a Columbia University film program graduate, will visit a “Beginning Screenwriting” class taught by Dr. Haas.

Directing students taught by Rev. James Mayzik, S.J., director of the Media Center will also attend. Peirce will also

have lunch with students in the new Creative Life living and learning community, a unique opportunity for them to talk with an individual who has carved out a fulfilling life’s path in a challenging industry.

After a screening of “Boys Don’t Cry” on Monday, Nov. 8 at 3 p.m. in the Multimedia Room, Pierce will give a brief talk about the film and then take questions from the audience. “Boys Don’t Cry” is a groundbreaking work of terrible beauty, according to Dr. Haas. Based on a true story, the film made a star out of Hilary Swank who played Brandon, a real-life woman originally named Teena Brandon passing as a man in a small, unforgiving Nebraska town. Brandon’s ‘social transgression’ exacts the highest price. “As art, ‘Boys Don’t Cry,’ is defined by unforgettable imagery and breathtaking cinematic style,” said Dr. Haas.

“As social commentary, it is profoundly moving, deeply humane.”

The film launched Peirce’s career. “I had given everything to that movie,” Peirce told The New York Times.

“I was exhausted, and I got offered millions of dollars, many different movies. But it’s like starting to run before you’re ready to run. You’re still the same. You’re looking for emotional truth in your directing, but you’re dealing with 20 times more people, 20 times more money. People are looking at every stage of your process. How did I make ‘Boys’? Well, I picked up a camera and just went and did it.”

For that film Peirce received the Boston Film Critic’s Award for Best New Filmmaker, the Las Vegas Film Critics Society Award for Best Director and the National Board of Review’s Outstanding Directorial Debut Award. Peirce also won several other writing and directing awards for the film, which also earned Chloe Sevigny an Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress.

On Nov. 1 at 3 p.m. in the Multimedia Room, there

Brew Master Jorge Espino: American Ale

will be a campus screening of “Stop Loss,” a ‘new’ type of war film inspired by the real-life experiences of soldiers repeatedly called for repeat tours of duty. A process that gives the film its title. Starring Ryan Phillippe and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, the story was inspired by the real videos and images made by American soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Peirce was in part inspired to make the film by her younger brother’s service in Iraq.

Have You 'Hurd' of This New Stag Musician?

By Meghan Gallucci Contributing Writer

By Jorge Espino Features Columnist Let’s face it; most college students would rather test the limits of their liver, not the limits of their wallet. We can’t blame the underclassmen for their lack of taste in beer. Most of the time they’re mooching off their townhouse hosts who choose quantity over quality when it comes to a party. Although we have plenty of time to refine our tastes, it’s never too early to put down the Natty and enjoy a well-crafted brew.

This column challenges the weekend binger to reconsider their love affair with bad beer.

Consider this a time out from “being college.”

Let’s take the time to take our taste buds seriously while being easy on our wallets.

I’ve found that Budweiser American Ale is exceptionally flavorful and inexpensive. It fits the fall season with its warm toasted malt character as well as the budget (usually $6.99 for a six pack). It’s not a beer I’d have mid-summer, but it’s certainly nice this time of year. Although it doesn’t compare to the true German Oktoberfest beers, it’s certainly a nice break from the expensive annual habit I picked up when I visited the Munich Oktoberfest.

Slowly pour this brew into a pint glass to fully appreciate the color and aroma. This ale produces a nice thick head that lasts a good part of the experience. Looks are half the experience. Hold it up to the light and appreciate the deep amber color. Take a big wiff. You’ll probably notice the toasted malts and rich cascade hops.

Your first sip will probably reveal its toasty, caramel side. It finishes with a nice portion of hops. It’s pretty impressive for the price and the Budweiser label. It certainly changed my opinion on Bud. I almost forgot that they are respon-

Contributed Photo

Contributed Photo

sible for Bud Lite Lime and Golden Wheat.

For about two more dollars, you can get the Sierra Nevada Tumbler. The Tumbler is a great fall beer. Just like American Ale, this one is brewed with roasted malt that gives it a warm caramel taste. It’s less hoppy, but more malty. Either one is great on a blustery autumn afternoon.

This column is about maximizing your experience and minimizing your expenses. College is about broadening our horizons, right?

So grab a pint of good beer, raise it high, and join me in homage to the stuff that has helped inspire art, revolution, and love since the dawn of civilization.

Calories: 182 per bottle Alcohol Content: 5.1 percent Food Compatability: Goes well with beef dishes such as beef tips, mashed potatoes and gravy.

Cost: $6.99 for a six pack

fused – music is not something he does, it is an extension of who he is, and he doesn’t intend to ever stop.

“It’s about being young and havHurd details all this with humility, ing dreams,” musician Chris Hurd ’11, humor and sincerity. His optimism is reflects, describing a favorite album. It’s intoxicating and something he aims to clear that within this concept of dreams include in each song, explaining, “People lies something of great importance and have enough negativity in their lives.” understanding to Hurd, who adds without For Hurd, the focus doesn’t fall on hesitation, “Make your fantasies into fame, but instead on striving to make a reality.” record that he enjoys, including all the Hurd holds a weekly gig at Acoustic ranging, minute details of the creative Café on Tuesday nights, and is scheduled process. “You can’t be concerned about for an upcoming what other people think, recording. Though “People don’t have to listen. or you won’t do anyhis musical résumé Don’t come to a show if you thing,” he says. begins in infancy, “People don’t have don’t like it, or, better yet, it was at Fairfield come to a show and I’ll play to listen. Don’t come to that his songwrita show if you don’t like to you anyway.” ing developed and or, better,” he adds, -Chris Hurd it, he started lessons laughing, “come to a with Chris Morrison, show and I’ll play to you who Hurd hails as “one of the best guitar anyway.” players in Connecticut.” Gigs aligned, and The inspiration of family and fellow a loyal following of classmates came forth. musicians is preserved in Hurd’s songs.

Hurd’s fantasies are indeed becoming a It is the strong allure in his performance reality, and with an innate modesty, he however, that unites the influences, learnacknowledges the magnitude of his influing, trying and growing in an enlivening ences. work that is all his own.

Born into a family where music was Hurd dreams of making an album choice, he recalls listening to The Rolling that could be placed beside his favorites, Stones, Bob Dylan, The Beatles, and Oathe ones he remembers from the family sis, via record player at a young age. The record player, fit perfectly among them. records his parents loved to play continue Knowing Hurd’s accomplishments thus to be among Hurd’s greatest influences, far, there’s no reason to doubt him. and it was his older brother, a musician Hurd’s music can be found on Youhimself, who got him started on guitar.

Tube clips, Facebook, or Acoustic Café.

Hurd’s songwriting began in his early “When you’re alive, you’re never too teens, later playing in a number of bands old to try,” Hurd smiles. “It isn’t going in high school encouraged by his friends to be easy, but if you really want to do and family. something, if something really makes you In this delivery is the subtle but happy, try it.” essential key that keeps Hurd and music

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Features

Page 10

Photos by Peter Caty

Theatre Upholds Classic Projection

By Annie Rooney Executive Editor Dorothy Schultz is the cinema girl of Fairfield, Conn. as Emmanuelle Mimieux is Paris’s cinema girl in Inglorious Basterds. Dorothy operates the vintage community theatre on the corner of Post and Uniquowa Road every day. Her favorite part of the job is changing the marquee each week, especially when she gets to use the combined metal plate “the” or “of” when spelling out the movie title. “Those are really fun,” she says. We can only hope a Fredrick Zoller character does not hold his film premiere at her cinema and end the night with the building in flames.

Dorothy has grown to love the 40-hour work weeks she gives to this theater since her start two months ago. “We say on the website it’s the center of downtown Fairfield, but I always want to call it the heart of downtown Fairfield.” This community theater is one of few to exist around the country and according to its website, “a large piece of our history lives within the historic walls of these theaters.” What the website fails to

Above (L to R): The Fairfield Film Institute on Post Rd., Dorothy threads the film through the payout system, the five platters that hold the film in between the two theatre projectors. Below (L to R): Dorothy threading the film through the brain, pulling film through the payout, and the final setup of the projector during the film showing of The Kids are Alright.

acknowledge is the underpaid and volunteer effort its staff puts into the Institute’s historic existence Dorothy spends parts of her day in her purple office either changing the voicemail for the theater’s public phone line, updating it with the most recent show times or ordering posters for the new movies to be shown the upcoming week.

Dave, the projectionist, handles the large and heavy film reels upon their arrival to the theater on Thursdays. The film for Theater 1 goes on one of the bottom two platters while Theater 2 utilizes one of the top three platters. Once loaded, Dorothy can begin her tasking job.

After she climbs up the narrow and dark stairs to the small third floor projection room her first step is turning on all of the switches. Next she checks that the “frog legs” (for lack of the accurate equipment term) are on the middle tear and that the platter is on neutral.

Dorothy then begins threading the film through the brain, which is located in the middle of the platter. From the brain

Dorothy threads the film through sixteen numerically ordered spools of the payout system, making sure the film is tight around each round side. The switch is then turned to “payout.”

The next step is complicated because Dorothy has to make sure each sprocket hole on the film is puzzle piece fitted with the teeth of the gear-like wheels called sprockets. The electric motor powers the sprockets that pull the film through the projector after the switch is finally turned to “take up.” As the motor takes the film through the projector the old school black and white number count flashes on the big screen. Dorothy usually lets it go up to 9 for that vintage effect.

From that point the projector is ready and all is left is to dim the lights and press the green button for go.

At $5 a ticket and $2 for a small popcorn, the historic theatre is a college student haven. The Film Institute is currently showing Inception and Get Low but will update the titles on Friday. Dorothy expects to keep Inception for another week because of the successful attendance it has received.

Behind the Scenes: Theatre Fairfield

By Nicole Laskowski Contributing Writer Where is the one place you can find bags full of love, a shoe that falls out of the sky, people literally falling in love, and the northern lights? The small, mythical town of Almost, Maine.

Sunday concluded the run of Theatre Fairfield’s production of John Cariani’s romantic comedy “Almost, Maine,” which opened last Wednesday in the Wien Experimental Theatre.

“Often people don't realize how much work really goes into a play,” said Alexandra Burke '11, an actor in “Almost, Maine” who has been involved in nearly all of Theatre Fairfield’s productions since her freshman year. “Every night we rehearsed the play intensely.”

One of the early stages involved putting together a theatrical production is the actual decision making process through which a play is selected. Lynne Porter, associate professor of Visual and Performing Arts here at Fairfield, explained that many factors contribute to the decision of which plays Theatre Fairfield will perform.

“We want to find pieces that serve the student body,” said Porter. “We don’t look at theater as merely entertainment, but want to make a point of producing shows that are topical and wrestle with contemporary issues that affect all of us.”

Once the plays and production staff begin to bring their scenes together in full are chosen and the season has begun, run-throughs and also bring in rehearsal another part of the process can begin— props, scenery, costumes and more. auditions. Auditions typically take place Scenery and costume construction over one or two days and are immediately begin immediately after auditions end. The followed by callbacks. technical director and costume designer “[Callbacks help] the director decide sometimes hold power tool labs and sewing which part—if any—best suit that actor labs to teach basic skills to potential crew as well as which combination of actors is members. most effective,” “Through Theatre said Mariah Sage, “ We don’t look at theater as merely Fairfield, I’ve had the assistant profesopportunity to be both entertainment, but want to make a on stage and behind sor of Visual and Performing Arts. point of producing shows that are the stage,” said Lauren “By having all of topical and wrestle with contempo- Sippin, '13 who was on the actors there at props crew for “Almost, the callback, the rary issues that affect all of us.”

Maine.” “I worked on director can keep -Lynne Porter run crew for ‘Machinal,’ switching up parts but this was my first until he or she finds her ideal cast.” time on props crew and it was interesting to After auditions and callbacks are over, learn about how important props are for the an official cast list is released and two month show to run smoothly.” rehearsal period can formally begin.

As opening night gets closer, actors are Although the rehearsal process is difrequired to be “off-book,” or have all their ferent for every show, it typically begins with lines memorized, and begin running the designer presentations, such as costume entire show. If the performances are to be sketches, and a read-through of the entire in the Wien Black Box Theatre of the Quick show, also called “table-work.” Since “AlCenter, as was “Almost, Maine,” the cast and most, Maine” is comprised of many different crew begin preparing the space by bringing scenes in which the actors play several in the set, props, and more. This is called different characters, each actor would work “load in.” on his or her particular scene with just his The last weekend before opening night or her scene partner and the director. As is called “tech weekend,” during which the rehearsals progressed, the actors would cast and crew are working on finalizing the

show from 8:00 a.m. to midnight.

“Tech weekend is important because it is the only time the crew has to learn their part of the show. The actors have had a month and a half to rehearse, but crew only gets two days to learn everything! …By the end of the weekend we had a show!” said Sarah Iannarone, assistant stage manager of “Almost, Maine.”

Finally, opening night arrives and the cast and crew are able to showcase everything they have been working so hard on for so long.

“Opening night for any show is one of the most thrilling experiences one can get,” said Josh Matteo, an actor in “Almost, Maine.” “That moment before the show begins is an adrenaline rush like no other, a mix of nerves and excitement that only theater can give.”

After all of the performances are done, the cast and crew immediately begin taking the set apart and begin bringing costumes, makeup and everything else back to the PepsiCo Theatre; this is called “strike” and usually takes from four to five hours.

After all the hard work, the cast and crew members said the end result was certainly worth it.

“Many different people put in so much effort and compassion into this production, and seeing it on stage for those six days of performances was really worth it,” Maffeo said.

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Online Check our website for more Arts & Entertainment news.

Arts & Entertainment| 11 fairfieldmirror.com

Editor Andoni Flores » entertainment@fairfieldmirror.com

A FUSA Concert for the ‘Future History’

By Andoni Flores Entertainment Editor Nathaniel Motte is a giant of a man. The principle instrumentalist of the electropop duo 3OH!3 towers over the crowd of FUSA staff members who are running this year’s concert. He’s got his long hair pulled back into a bun and he’s busy signing t-shirts while I stare in sheer awe of his size before I notice his partner Sean Foreman also signing shirts and taking pictures. The size difference between the two is comical and reminds me of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza but I remind myself that they’ve had a RIAA certified platinum single so who am I to talk?

I wait for the small crowd to die down before I’m led to one of the locker rooms that has been transformed into the band’s dressing room for the concert. The place looks awesome; FUSA covered everything in black plastic and wrote the band’s name in big silver letters and then covered the plastic in white Christmas lights.

One of their friends/bandmates is sitting close to me, slurping down

his soup as I awkwardly sit on the table across from the band. I hadn’t really prepared any questions so I ask the first thing that comes to mind.

“Did you guys even know about our school before you got invited to play here?”

The two look at each other unaware of how to respond without sounding offense.

Nate seems to be the more political savvy and responds with: “I wasn’t necessarily aware of Fairfield…” and before he can finish Sean cuts him off with a, “but now we know.”

They seem unsure but I’m not even remotely offended. As I keep talking to them I learn that they both went to college (I forgot to ask if they finished) and they met in a physics class they had together at the University of Colorado in Boulder. What the two were doing in a physics class is beyond me, considering Sean was an English major and Nate was a Pre-Med and

Continues On Next Page

Photo Illustration By Amanda Villagra Photos By Yuri Sendzimir

Arts & Entertainment

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Page 12

‘Top 10’

By Sean Bannon

1. Mohombi Feat. Akon - Dirty Situation (Prod. By RedOne) This is a new uptempo track by RedOne’s artist Mohombi with Akon which will be off his debut album Movemeant. Mohombi and Akon team up to create an awesome dance party jam that you’re going to want for your next pre game.

2. Kanye West feat. Rihanna and Drake - All Of The Lights

Photo By Yuri Sendzimir

Biology major. Yeah, you heard right. The guys who are famous for not trusting “hoes” are college educated and one of them actually was studying to be a doctor.

The rest of the interview gets even more interesting. I’m trying to figure out how they got to be where they are today but Nate isn’t having it. You can tell he’s sick of answering the same questions over again and even though I’m trying to make them as original as possible, he spends most of the time answering me sarcastically and giving off the ‘I can’t wait to finish this interview vibe.’ Sean is the exact opposite; he’s patient and at times excited to answer my questions. He let’s me know that he’s the one the who wrote the line “Tell your boyfriend if he says he’s got beef, that I’m a vegetarian and I ain’t f****** scared of him” and that he actually was a vegetarian for five years. Before 3OH!3, he used to do rap battles and liked having punch lines to clown on his opponents. Sean likes to be clever and it shows.

Nate reveals that they started making their music on the computer programs Reason and Acid before upgrading to Pro Tools. Sean’s contribution to their early success?

“I definitely spent hours on Myspace trying to add people.” Eventually they started being offered shows which led to them writing more songs, acquiring a bigger following and eventually getting a record deal. The rest, as they, say is history.

Both of them write lyrics but it’s clear that Sean is the principle lyricist and Nate the instrumentalist. Sean tells me the reason that their sound varies from song to song is because their musical tastes are eclectic. He listens to anything from rap to Andrew W.K. (whom he tells me left him star struck when he met him) and Nate does the same. And the reason why their music is so upbeat and anthem-like is because since they started out as a live act they wanted to write and record things that would translate well into that setting.

After about ten minutes of talking to them, the guys have to go put on a show and I have to go suffer in the front row. The energy level is high and, from where I’m standing, the majority of the people are either dancing or jumping around with their hands in the air, which is always a sign that the show’s going well. Onstage, the guys have a live band backing them up as well as a random mechanical white wolf with glowing eyes. Their background is the American flag but instead of stars it has two hands forming the symbol for 3OH!3 and the stripes are made up of text with the band’s name on them. I never really pictured them as really patriotic, but even I have to admit that it looked cool. They closed with their hit single “Don’t Trust Me” and then it was off to the next act—Jason Derulo.

I’m told that I can’t talk to Jason until after the concert but that still doesn’t stop me from going backstage to try. The 21-year-old is stretching out his legs against the red wall of the locker room area when I see him. His costume reminds me a lot of Michael Jackson but I know better than to tell him that before he goes onstage.

The lights go off and the music starts. Jason runs out the doors and onto the stage to a cheering crowd of almost all girls (in the front row), his charm and charisma oozing out of him as he seduces them with his confidence. At one point in his performance he looks more like a black Mick Jagger with better dance moves and better vocals than the latest fad in pop music. Hit after hit, Jason put on a stunning performance, at one point inviting a member of the crowd to go onstage with him to be serenaded. No one can say he doesn’t care about his fans. The show ended spectacularly with several hundred hearts broken as the realization that Jason would not be coming back to the stage finally sank in.

After waiting for Jason to finish signing autographs and being photographed, I finally get to meet him in the same locker room where I met 3OH!3. Except this time there’s a frantic group of FUSA staff members rushing to clean the room so they can go out and enjoy their Friday night. The first thing I notice about him is just how confident he is.

He’s completely relaxed and at ease with a room full of people watching and listening to him answer my questions. He tells me that he’s been dreaming of sharing his music for the past sixteen years and considering that he’s only 21, the five-year-old version of him must have been very ambitious. Jason actually got his start promoting himself to several studios as a songwriter instead of as an artist. “Everyone says they’re an artist but when you’re a songwriter people want to see what you got.” Jason would use his front of a songwriter just to get a chance to record demos in a professional studio but eventually he got his big break when a song he helped write for Birdman called “Bossy” actually placed.

Jason can play drums and piano but he doesn’t write his music or beats; a producer does those for him. What he gets to do is come into the studio, hear the track and then start coming up with the melody and then lyrics. I ask him if “In My Head” is about anyone, and he tells me that the song isn’t about anyone in particular, but rather the fantasies that go through your head when you first meet someone. I also notice the tattoo on his left arm—a skull with a musical note in the middle of its forehead. He tells me that he really likes skulls and the note is symbolic of the music that’s always in his head.

The tattoo is also the logo for his company—the record label that he’s starting—called “Future History” because he believes that in the future we’ll be reading about him in the history books (considering his age and how much he’s accomplished, I’ll believe it).

His manager tells me that we only have time for one more question, so I go for it. I ask him why he says his name in his songs. He laughs and tells me that it’s not in all of them but it just so happens to be in his first two singles and that his name serves as a jingle, a reminder of who’s singing that song that will forever be stuck “in my head.”

Kanye confirmed that “All of the Lights” will now officially be the third single from his upcoming My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy album.

Rumors state that this track could have up to 11 artists on it, so stay tuned. Kanye is moving away from the auto-tune stage and getting back to old school flow. Drake is no longer “Wheelchair Jimmy” from the Nickelodeon show Degrassi, but is now one of the top rap artists in the game. Rihanna is the premier female artist right now with unreal vocals.

3. Lupe Fiasco - The Show Goes On This is the first single from his upcoming album “Lasers”. I honestly think this is going to be one of the top songs of 2010-2011. Lupe marks his return to stardom with a single built around a sped-up sample from “Float On”, the 2004 hit from rock band Modest Mouse.

4. Timeflies - All Night Tufts College students Cal and Rob Resnick form the duo known as Timeflies. Timeflies is an up and coming group out of the Boston area. Rob Resnick, producer, provides the beats while Cal is on vocals.

Timeflies produces hip-hop, rap, and pop tracks. “All Night” is a track that illustrates Cal’s ability as a lyricist. Rob creates a creative and unique beat, which goes perfectly with Cal’s vocals.

5. Akon - Give It To ‘Em [Ft. Rick Ross] This is a brand new track from Akon featuring Rick Ross off Akon’s upcoming album “Akonic” dropping Nov. 23. With this song you see Akon going back to “urban” music. Produced by The Runners, the fast-paced banger touts frenetic handclaps and will get your headbumping.

6. Flo Rida - Turn Around (5,4,3,2,1) Flo Rida has released a new club banger, ‘Turn Around (5,4,3,2,1),’ which is featured on his upcoming third studio album ‘Only One Flo,’ in stores Nov. 30. The track opens with the recognizable electronic sample of Yello’s 1985 hit ‘Oh Yeah’, which you’ll know if you have seen “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”. This song will get you off your feat and keep you dancing all night.

7. Collin McLoughlin - Back to the Wall Collin McLoughlin is 22 from Bedford, NY. Collin’s soulful voice and true to life lyrics resonate with a broad audience. “Back To the Wall” is a story of being at a crossroads and passing up the safe, smooth path to follow your passion and embark on a rough and sometimes unforgiving journey, in Collin’s case, pursuing a musical career. Collin has the capability of becoming one of the next superstar musicians in the music industry. Collin has an up-beat feel and sings over electro-pop beats that make his music something any guy or girl will want.

8. Chiddy Bang - Young Blood Chiddy Bang is an alternative hip hop band from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Their music has become hits for colleges across America.

This new song samples The Naked & Famous’ hit “Young Blood”. The song not only showcases some verses from Chidera “Chiddy” Anamege, but also creative production making this a dance party hit. The other half of Chiddy Bang, Xaphoon Jones, is becoming one of the top producers in the industry.

9. Rihanna - Who’s That Chick (Prod. By David Guetta) This is Rihanna’s second single “Who’s That Chick” from her forthcoming LOUD! album due out soon. This song is produced by dance party mastermind David Guetta. This upbeat dance track will get your adrenaline flowing. The combination of Guetta’s electro beat and Rihanna’s vocals form a sure fire hit.

10. Jessica Mauboy Feat. Ludacris - Saturday Night Jessica Mauboy is an Australian R&B singer, songwriter and actress.

This song is set to be the 2nd single off of Jessica Mauboy’s upcoming album “Get ‘Em Girls.” Ludacris provides a smooth verse to go with Jessica’s great vocals. This has dance party written all over it and is going to be a radio hit real soon.

Arts & Entertainment

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Page 13

Online

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Coffee Break | 15

Check online every week for answers to our games.

fairfieldmirror.com

iPhone vs. BlackBerry

Dan Leitao Did I see you last night? How did we end up home? What’s your name? These are questions asked every weekend on college campuses the next morning. BLACKOUT. It is something that will happen to most college students, but it is how you deal with it that makes all the difference.

I’d tell you all the medical reasons that blackouts happen but clearly by the amount of Four Loko on campus this weekend nobody gets scared by articles like, “The Dangers of ‘Blackout’ In a Can.” (I mean even the writer of that article had a Four Loko this weekend) Blackouts can cause uncomfortable scenarios from not knowing who you called a name, to not knowing who you were making out with in the corner of the party, that is until you’re tagged Sunday morning on Facebook, or worse -- a video appears. But it is all about how you play it off, something I have yet to master in four years.

Guys, sadly, “Your Honor I don’t remember smashing the pumpkin on that car’s windshield, I was blackout,” is not an excuse in the eyes of the law. Socially it doesn’t hold much ground either.

Just because you soberly wouldn’t leave the party with that girl or tell some girl she was the most amazing

HE Said / SHE Said

Editor Dan Leitao » info@fairfieldmirror.com

BLACKOUT: What Happened Last Night? person ever, being blackout is only so much of an excuse, because at the end of the day, you did what you did.

Now She Said wants you to be snarkey and just say, “Oh get over it.

I was clearly too drunk to know what I was saying.” If that works for you by all means use that line all the time.

It might get you slapped, or your number erased from a few phones, but in the grand scheme of things that’s probably best.

“I don’t recall.” Didn’t work out to well for Clinton so use it with great caution. I mean, in the end you can pretend it never happened, agree to never mention it again, or simply say, “Let’s both be mature, I don’t know what I did and I’m sorry that it offended you, but I was blackout. Can we please talk about this and then figure out what to do.”

Sounds a little shrinky but trust me it usually works. Blackouts are a reality of stupid college drinking, so unless you plan to stop drinking stupidly, you will most likely blackout again.

However, She Said, about Friday night. Whatever I said is still on the table, but let’s call it even since you remember neither of our awesome conversation on Saturday, nor meeting my brother.

It is the art of blacking out, or the dangers of it that leave our weekends surrounded by a hazy, stale beer smelling, cloud of mystery. I am not here to lecture you on the health hazards of this new social craze; rather I plan on writing to you about the social hazards instead. I personally was just tagged in a few photos at a house that I don’t remember being at, and in hand of course was my trusty Mango Absolute.

Note to self for the future, if it smells like death, it will probably lead to social death.

Here is something more humiliating: the texts about “did you really mean what you said last night.” Oh honey, if I knew what I said maybe I could tell you; if I knew whom this number belonged to even, well at least that’d be a start. One of my roommates offered another explanation for this and entitled it, “Browning out.” She is a firm believer that the mind blocks out things that it doesn’t want to remember, and it’s not even the alcohol’s fault.

I’d be comforted by this notion, knowing that I wasn’t killing half as many brain cells as I thought I was, skating around the brink of alcohol poisoning night after night, but those pictures that were just posted and my headache beg to differ with the theory.

Some people are participating in blackout nights as if they were a sporting event. It becomes an “I’ll beat you to it!” race as they chug their Four Loko

Alexandria Hein

or stay classy straight from the bottle Smirnoff or what-have-you.

Now here comes the danger of introducing the opposite sex to your blackout. Heaven knows what you said to him but you have to now brace yourself to pay the price. “I was so blackout,” seems like “The dog ate my homework.”

If you are going to drink like a champ, you’ve got to own up like a champ. You might not have meant what you said, you may wish that you could grab every word, (or maybe not every word…) back, but you did say it.

Here’s how to clean up: “Hey I was pretty embarrassing last night, whatever we said if it offended you, please let’s just forget it.” Or, “Hey, can I have a do over on last night, I’m sorry I had a little too much to drink.” Or my personal favorite, “Oh get over it. I was clearly too drunk to know what I was saying.” To the point, and even a little snarky. You flaunt that pride girl!

Grab a good girlfriend, one who is clearly not on your path to destruction, and hold on tight for the night. Make sure she doesn’t let you sneak into that back room because actions always speak louder than words, especially when blackout, and enjoy the ride. I just hope it doesn’t end in a $35 Dominos bill like the Crack House’s usually do. And He Said, I may not remember seeing you Saturday, but I remember Friday just fine, let’s call it even shall we?

Coffee Break

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Dear Dee,

Dear Dee As a current junior, I thought life was going to become easier here at Fairfield rather than more intense and complex. I feel as though I am slipping backwards on so many levels. I have SO much work to do, I am constantly tired, I feel as though my friends don’t care about me, and I don’t see the light at the end of the tunnel anymore. I don’t even go out anymore to parties because I just don’t feel like I want to be around other people.

Please tell me if I am all alone with these thoughts. I just want to enjoy my life again.

Thank you,

Dear Darkside,

First and most importantly, remember that you are never alone. There is always someone you can turn to and talk to about how you are feeling. It is also very important to remember that what you are feeling is very common amongst college students. From my experience, the semesters do not get easier year to year. They are different, but they are all challenging. The good side to that is you are learning more and growing as an individual. The bad side is that every semester is a challenge.

There are many issues that cause stress levels in students to increase. Although we look for ways to find relief, there is still a chance that depression can set in. Couple that with the lack of sleep we get while at school and it can feel as though the walls are closing in.

A study at Washington University in St. Louis showed that one in every three college students deals with some level of depression while in college. Students today deal with many issues that impact our thoughts that may not have been as prevalent years ago. As schools become more expensive, we all struggle with the concept that we may not be able to afford to continue our education. Even if we have student loans, the job market is daunting and we worry we might not get a job when we graduate to even be able to pay them off. We also know we are getting a great education here, but that can also add stress due to the time and effort to successfully complete the courses. All in all, it looks like we do have a lot on our shoulders.

It sometimes feels as though there is so much out of our control.

What does matter though is that we do have control over the most important element…ourselves!! Some basic practices could include eating healthy meals and getting the sleep you need. Even if that means catching a “power nap”, then do that.

You have to take care of yourself. Also, prioritize your work load.

Darkside

Page 16

Send YOUR questions to deardee @fairfieldmirror. com

Make sure you are organized and plan ahead. Keeping a list can often help because as you cross off what you have accomplished you will feel stronger and successful in those tasks.

The final words of advice I personally believe are the most important ones; find someone you can talk to. It may be as simple as a call to your mom, or your best friend. Sometimes just acknowledging that you are frustrated and knowing that someone else is there if you need them can make a huge difference in how you feel. Also, if you feel that you need to talk to someone else, there are resources right here at Fairfield that you can turn to. The Counseling & Psychological Services center is a free, confidential service for full-time undergraduate students. They provide individual and group session led by professional psychotherapists to help students navigate adjustment issues, relationship problems, family issues, and emotional distress.

Remember that you are a valued member of Fairfield University and are not alone at all. Reach out if you need to and know there is always hope and someone to help you get through any darkside you might encounter.

If you or a friend has a psychological emergency or crisis, please access Counseling & Psychological Services as follows: Weekdays - Call (203) 254-4000 ext. 2146 during regular working hours between 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. to speak to a counselor.

After-office hours and weekends - Call Public Safety at (203) 2544000 ext.4090. The on-call counselor will respond.

WHAT DO YOU WANT IN COFFEE BREAK? Want To See Different Games? Email The Mirror info@fairfieldmirror.com Want To Write Advice Columns? Email The Mirror info@fairfieldmirror.com Want To Write He Said/She Said? Email The Mirror info@fairfieldmirror.com

Sports

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Saturday's A Rugby Day

Page 17

Undefeated Stags Ready For Championship Against Cross Town Rivals Sacred Heart

Alice Guglielmoni '14 pops the ball up to a teammate during a rugby game last season.

By Sasha Campbell Sports Editor Women’s Club Rugby: often unnoticed by Fairfield students, is deserving of the attention and praise of more fans.

An undefeated record and a team cohesiveness that all sports strive for, the Lady Ruggers are a powerhouse in the club sporting arena.

To cap off their regular season, the Women’s Rugby team defeated Columbia this past weekend to maintain their perfect record, showing the Fairfield community that this group of women is a force to be reckoned with.

The Women’s Rugby program has flourished into a

Mirror File Photo

popular club sport here at Fairfield, under the guidance of president Eileen Delaney '11 and captains Emily Barrett '12 and Alice Guglielmoni '12.

The returning players made an intense recruiting effort for new players. They advertised the rugby program at almost all the campus club and activities events and relied on networking by the upperclassmen. Their efforts certainly have paid off, as the team now has approximately 25 members.

Freshman Morgan Carey said she was told by an upperclassman that joining rugby was the best decision she ever made at college. As a freshman looking to get involved on campus, Morgan joined and now says that she feels the same way about the program.

The forward captain for the team, Emily Barrett said, “Rugby is a culture. We have a good time. The team has a great bond; we’re together the majority of the time, on and off the field. As we always say: Good attitude, good time. Bad attitude, bad time."

The Lady Ruggers of Fairfield use this team cohesiveness on the field not only during their games, but during their practices as well. You can find the Women’s Rugby team practicing on the field just below the Fairfield Prep student parking lots, where team bonding is fused with competitive play to create a team that can boast about its perfect season thus far.

When asked about the level of competitiveness in this sport, Delaney says, “We are 100% competitive. We work really hard all week and have a great time doing it.” The intensity that these athletes show during practice has helped them secure their undefeated record when it comes time for game day each weekend.

As mentioned earlier, despite the perfect record that this team can proudly flaunt, attendance at rugby games is still slim. Delaney says, “It’s growing. We have a lot of parents come out but we’re trying to get more students involved. For the big games we generally get a decent crowd.”

Although rugby does have many loyal supporters, for the success that this team has amounted this season, attendance could be expected to be greater.

One loyal fan, Samantha Ceglia ’11 says, “Going to the rugby games is great. A lot of my friends are on the team and you can see how hard they work. It’s such a competitive sport and right now they are undefeated, which is just so impressive.”

As the rugby regular season comes to a close, Delaney has high hopes for championship season play. With an undefeated record

Come support the Lady Rugg ers at their championship game this Saturday at 1 p.m. vs. Sacred Heart.

The Mirror | Week of Nov. 3, 2010

Sports

Page 18

A Win for Women's Golf and Coach Roberto

By Matthew Palmer Staff Writer When you think about Fairfield athletics, Men’s and Women’s Golf may not be the first thing that comes to mind.

Everyone knows we have a golf team, but without a golf course on campus the teams remain somewhat invisible to the average Fairfield student.

Recently however the golf teams have had some impressive successes that should not be overlooked.

This past week the Women’s Golf team dominated the Hofstra Invitational at the Great Rock Golf Course in Wading River, NY. The Stags shot better than Hofstra University, Wagner College, Niagara University and Saint Francis College.

The invitational, the team’s second to last competition of the season, was a solid win for the Stags. The team took first place shooting a 673 shot total, beating out second place Hofstra by 25 strokes.

Christina The Stags were lead by DeStefano '11 Christina DeStefano '11 who captured first overall in the tournament with a two round total of 159.

Fairfield also took second thanks to fellow Kristen MacDonald '11 who shot only one stroke behind DeStefano.

The Stags victory was also fueled by Claire Rothschild '11 and Annie Sperandio '11 who finished 9th and 10th respectively shooting impressive scores of 176 and 180.

Looking to the future of Fairfield Golf, the only non-senior Stag at the tournament, Elly Lemons '13 finished a solid 12th shooting 183, beating out sixteen other competitors from contending teams.

The Fairfield Women’s Golf Team concluded their Fall Season at the University of Richmond Invitational this past Monday and Tuesday.

The success of the team is no doubt a direct result of solid coaching from head coach, Len Roberto.

Roberto has been the coach of Fairfield Men’s Golf for the past 12 seasons and also took over Women’s Golf in the 2004-2005 season.

He has twice been named the Coach of the Year in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC), being voted for

Seniors

Kristen MacDonald '11

Claire Rothschild '11

the honor by his coaching peers in 2004 and 2008.

Recently, Roberto’s successes have not only been noticed by the MAAC, but on a larger scale by the New England Intercollegiate Golf Association (NEIGA).

According to the Fairfield Athletics website, Roberto was selected for this year’s Gordon McCullough Award.

Gordon McCullough served as the Executive Director of the NEIGA and was a successful golf coach at the University of Hartford until his untimely death in 1990.

The award marks the first for Roberto, “The Gordon Mc-

Cullough Award is one of the most prestigious awards in the New England golf area. It has been presented in the past to quite a few hall of fame golf coaches, so I feel really honored and privileged to be this year’s recipient of the Gordon McCullough Award.”

This award has extensive criteria, all of which were met

by Roberto. These criteria include coaching for a minimum of 10 years, as well as making an overall contribution to New England golf while maintaining a positive relationship with players, including dress, behavior and rapport.

Candidates must also be knowledgeable of USGA, NCAA, and NEIGA rules and regulations and contribute to the community on behalf of collegiate golf.

Sophomore golfer, Brendan Carr commented on the award with great respect for his coach.

“Coach Roberto is a great coach and great guy, he definitely deserved this award.” Carr went on to say that he enjoys playing for him and that his coach is a “hard worker who is willing to help.”

Roberto is a member of the Golf Coaches Association of Annie America (GCAA), as well as curSperandio '11 rently serving as the president of the executive board of NEIGA, where he served as Vice President.

According to Roberto’s bio on the Fairfield website, success in the classroom also continues to be at the forefront of the Stags golf program. Fairfield had five student-athletes selected to the 2009 MAAC All-Academic Team, the most of any program in the league.

In Roberto’s four seasons at the helm of both programs the Stags have had 18 student-athletes selected to the league’s All-Academic Team, with three additions from the women’s team this past year

Sports | 20

Online New and improved sports blog.

Online only coverage.

Week of Nov. 3, 2010

She said it...

“The crowd has always been great for us. I think losing anywhere is unfortunate but you especially don’t want to lose for your home fans.”

-Head volleyball coach, Ajila Pittinger on the atmosphere of home games.

Game of the week

Fairfield vs. Loyola

Saturday, 2 p.m. @ Alumni Hall.

Fairfield women's volleyball will take on Loyola on November 7th. Come watch if they will be able to redeem their MAAC standing.

MAAC standings Overall Conf.

Team

Niagra Canisius Iona Fairfield Manhattan Loyola (Md.) Marist Siena Saint Peter’s Rider

19-8 14-13 15-9 10-16 14-13 13-15 12-14 6-18 6-19 2-22

14-1 10-5 9-5 9-5 7-7 7-7 7-7 5-9 2-12 1-13

fairfieldmirror.com

Sports editors Sasha Campbell and Kristen Golen » sports@fairfieldmirror.com

Volleyball Gets Attacked by MAAC Stags Loss Against Niagra "Kills" Stag's Home Winning Streak

By Ivey Speight Staff Writer The Fairfield University women’s volleyball team was swept in a weekend series against the Canisius Golden Griffs and the defending MAAC Champions Niagara Purple Eagles.

The loss against Niagara on Saturday snapped the Stag’s 16 match home winning streak which was the tenth longest in the nation tied with Michigan and Western Michigan.

It was also their first loss against a MAAC opponent at Alumni Hall since October 23, 2003 and the first time they dropped back-to-back games at home since 1992.

During that amazing run, Fairfield fans have been accustomed to the team leaving the court with the school’s fight song playing in the background and the chorus of fans applauding the win.

After the losses over the weekend, the energy at Alumni Hall seemed strange. There was no cheering, no music, no noise, the atmosphere was eerily quiet.

“You never want to lose at home,” head coach Ajilia Pittenger said. “The crowd has always been great for us. I think losing anywhere is unfortunate but you especially don’t want to lose for your home fans,” she said. Pittenger experienced only the fourth total loss on campus under her three year reign.

The team enters the final couple weekends of the regular season trying to improve before the ever important MAAC Tournament. “We need to learn how to communicate better with one another so that we know where to go and play as a better team,” Kara Reis said.

The sophomore libero led the squad with 28 digs over the weekend. The ability to communicate might have transferred over to their offense. The squad accumulated 57 errors in the past two games that puts them at 634 for the season. That is 234 more than their opponents. “We have to be able to play together on a consistent basis and we just haven’t done that so far,” Pittenger said.

The coach is trying to find a combination that meshes by introducing new people into new roles. Every member of the

roster had playing time over the weekend. The coach hopes that the new rotations can spark something by the end of the season.

She wants to be able to “put our best team and our best players and everyone playing well out there at the end of the year.”

Freshman Rachel Romansky sees the losses as a positive aspect getting near tournament time. “We have a lot of things to work on and it’s good to have your weaknesses shown to you,” she said.

The first year setter racked up a team high of 67 assists over the weekend. She feels that although the team knows what they want to do, their biggest weakness is that they “never put it into motion we can’t get it together,” she said.

With tournament time ticking down, the team must find their new identity that they have been searching for all this time. “If we can figure out a way to be more consistent, make those plays then there’s definitely a possibility of turning things around,” Pittenger said.

In order to do that, the team must come together as a unit for the final stretch. Having the ability to know what the team has to improve on before they play for the title will give the squad an advantage to shape up before the end.

These two crucial losses can be what the team needed to get them right back on track, “I think we can learn and change and hopefully win next weekend,” Reis said.

Despite not having the outcome that they would have liked, the team developed a buzz that reflected the chemistry of past Fairfield teams. “If we keep the energy up it’s definitely an intimidation for another team and I think if we keep doing that we’ll do well,” Romansky said.

She knows that the Stags won’t let the losses come to the as they play their final four games of the regular season, “It’s a big weekend, it’s either going to put us in a good place for the tournament or a bad place for the tournament. I think either way we are going to rise to the occasion.”

The five MAAC losses are the most since 1995 when they went 1-6. No Fairfield volleyball team has ever lost more than six conference games.

Senior Lauren Hughes sets during the game against Marist. The Stags couldn't keep their home undefeated MAAC record this past weekend with two losses.

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