THE

The Free Student Newspaper of Chestnut Hill College

GRIFFIN
Philadelphia, PA September 2011

Chestnut Hill Students Survive Irene

MARY FRANCES CAVALLARO 13 On Friday, Aug. 26, incoming freshmen were prepared and excited for the start of their orientation weekend and college career at Chestnut Hill College. Within hours of traveling, packing and unpacking into what will be their home for the school year, everyone was strongly encouraged to evacuate the campus. Cars parked in the lower lot had to be relocated to Mount St. Josephs parking lot in the event of flooding. Students and student leaders were disappointed to have to evacuate the school, but for some, going home was not an option. Several students needed to remain on campus during Hurricane Irene because there was no way for them to get home. Despite the cancellation of orientation weekend and having to stay in Fournier all weekend, the students and student leaders took advantage of the situation and made the best of it, even though they were concerned about their loved ones at home. I was safer here than at home, since I am from New Jersey, near the ocean, said Caitlin Kain, 13. The school did a great job of keeping us safe and alert. It was an interesting experience because those that stayed on campus truly bonded. The orientation leaders were determined to have a great weekend, despite only having a handful of freshmen on campus. Throughout the weekend there were games, movies, friendship bracelet making and Quidditch in Sorgenti Arena. We played basketball two nights in a row in Sorgenti until the storm hit Chestnut Hill, then I shared some classic ghost stories of the school, said Toya Laing, 13. Although the situation was serious, the RAs and Orientation Leaders teamed up to make a crazy situation feel like another weekend at the College. Hopefully the firstyear residents that stayed still enjoyed their first weekend here. Freshmen Anthony McQuade, Dane Ghar and Joseph Russell Jr. agreed that it was a terrific chance to establish friendships that will last for a long time. It was a cool way to start off the school year, said McQuade. We had a good time hanging out in the dorm; it was the first time Ive ever been in the middle of a tornado watch and I have to admit we were pretty scared. I will never forget my Orientation weekend, Ghar added. I was concerned for my loved ones, but in the past two weeks I could say that I survived a hurricane, earthquake and a tornado! The experience came a little easier to the RAs and orientation leaders that stayed on campus because they were familiar with one another. The freshmen, however, did a great job adapting to the situation and had a memorable weekend. This proved to be a blessing in disguise, said Freshman Kala Giannone. All of the RAs and OLs had already known each other and been in correspondence for some time, but I was new to the group. Instantaneously, I realized that that didnt matter. There is such a strong sense of community in this school, that when I sat down for dinner with everyone that night it felt as if I had been inducted into the family. It was a tremendous experience, seeing everyone interact and take care of each other. There was never really a dull moment throughout the whole night. Even though part of me wishes I were home to check on family (who are all fine and safe), a bigger part of me was glad I was here. It was a great bonding experience and it showed me how caring, and unique this campus really is. Being stuck here through Hurricane Irene was an orientation in itself and it was truly unforgettable. Irene passed and left her mark on the lower lot, but students were cleared to move back onto campus for Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2011. Do not feel left out, freshmen, because regardless of Irene cancelling orientation weekend, the events will still occur over time; Ray will still give it away!

image: Trevor Phelps 14, Jessica Veazey 13

News

2 STYLE

4 Opinion

6 Sports

A Letter from the Editor

GRIFFIN
Vol. II, Issue I The Free Student Newspaper of Chestnut Hill College Olivia Marcinka 13 Editor-in-Chief Mary Marzano 12 Managing Editor Westly Mandoske 13 Business Director Michael Bradley 14 Design Director Zachary Grubb 12 News Editor Aizaz Gill 14 Opinion Editor Marilee Gallagher 14 Sports Editor Jen Jones 12 Style Editor Bleu Lane 12 Style Editor Jess Veazey 13 Photo Editor Dana Consalvo 12 Copy Editor Hannah Campbell 12 Copy Editor Susan Magee, M.F.A. Advisor The Griffin strives for accuracy and fair representation in all of its publications and correctness. If an error is found, e-mail the issue number, the article in which the error was found, and the correction that needs to be made. The resulting correction may be printed in the next edition of The Griffin. Make your opinion heard by submitting letters to the editor or contributions to The Griffin. Submissions become property of The Griffin and are subject to editing for style, clarity and space concerns. The views represented in submissions do not represent the views of the College or the Griffins Advisor. Submissions also do not neccessarily represent The Griffins position. Interested in writing, photographing, layout or design? Fill out a short form on our Facebook and The Griffin will contact you. Email The Griffin at the griffin.chc@gmail.com or visit The Griffin on Facebook.

THE

Fitness Center Set to Open in Imminent Future

KELLY MCKAY 12 The wait for the brand new fitness center is almost over. An announcement will be made in the near future via the colleges Web site and students will receive an email regarding its opening. The final construction preparations are ongoing and we anticipate opening as soon as possible, said Sandy Dickson, director of fitness and recreation. It will surely be a bright hub on campus that will be overflowing with activity. As construction continues, students, faculty and staff have access to the existing fitness center in the basement of Fontbonne. So what can we expect to see in the new fitness center? Gym-goers are required to swipe their ID card at the front desk and will have access to a full line of cardio equipment including treadmills, bikes and ellipticals, as well as plate-loaded and cybex machines and free weights. There will also be balance balls, bands, agility hurdles and more. The new fitness center will have various flat screen TVs throughout too. Students have the opportunity to host one guest at a time on weekends after completing the waiver that all users must fill out before utilizing the facility. Although the exact opening date has yet to be released, anticipation is growing around campus. I wish it were already open, but Im really excited for it, said KarlaAne Klouda 14, I think they designed it really well; it looks really bright and nice and people are going to want to go there. Other student-athletes like Klouda are looking forward to how spacious the gym is going to be. Often times in the existing fitness center various athletic teams would arrive and there would not be enough equipment for everyone. I cant wait for the gym to be finished, said Dan Morgan 12. Its going to be a great addition to the college. The hours for the existing fitness center in Fontbonne as well as for the new fitness center are as follows: Monday - Thursday (7am10pm) Friday (7am-8pm) Saturday (10am-5pm) Sunday (12-8pm) Anyone interested in working in the fitness center should contact Sandy Dickson at dicksons@chc.edu.

The Griffin

Student Government Looking for Participants

ALYSSA MILLER 12 College provides you with plenty of opportunities to get involved whether it be in sports, clubs, or attending campus events. One of the benefits of getting involved on campus is that it truly fulfills your college experience. One major club around campus is Student Government Association (SGA). Being a member of Student Government allows you to take action and to have a voice. A major way that students voices have been heard here at CHC is by extending the hours in the cafeteria and making the shuttle times more convenient for students. Student Government prides itself on being a governing body. SGA is the liaison between the students, faculty and administration. When students have a concern, they are able to share it with a member of Student Government, and they will do their best to take action and report the concern to a faculty or staff member. This organization is about taking part in a decision-making process that affects the population of the school. SGA also takes part in community service events, such as Griffin Week, a Pep Rally, and the winter and spring formals. Not only is Student Government a great way to allow your voice to be heard, it is also a great place to make new friends especially for freshmen who are able to meet new people from different classes. This years positions that are

available are Senior Class Vice President, Sophomore Class Vice President and both Freshman Class President and Vice President. The duties for those positions include holding class meetings, taking charge of certain annual events, and even decorating a part of the campus on Christmas Decorating Night. As Student Government President, I encourage you to become a part of SGA. It is a wonderful experience and an unbeatable way of getting your voice heard and making a difference.

Chestnut Hill Takes London & France

JILL MCFARLAND 15 Travis Wolfe boards a plane to London, England with a few goals set in mind. Explore, learn, not be viewed as an obnoxious American, along with perhaps shaking the queens hand. After moving in at the Thursby House, a dormitory, it didnt take long for Travis to find his way around the city. With a series of trains, buses, subways, and the tube, he could get wherever he wanted to be- and fast. Thats the London way- a hustle and bustle, bunch of coffee-drinking, welldressed, blue-tooth endowed businesspeople crossing every street every day. Sprinkle in a blend of shoppers, wanderers and tourists from all over the world, and thats London. Travis saw a tennis match at Wimbledon, talked to an elderly man in the worlds oldest cigar shop for two hours, and finally tried strawberries and cream all in the same day. The man told Travis he wasnt an obnoxious American. Check. Eating within the city can be a venture in and of itself. One night Travis and his friends stopped by a Thai food buffetwhich is prevalent in Londontwo plates later they realized they couldnt identify anything on the plate. Check please. Travis did a lot of things in London that every tourist should do: visited the Parliament building, saw a play at a historic theatre, ate the hometown dish bangers and mash and rode the Eye of London. However, Travis took trip to velop when in a foreign setting. Absorb your surroundings, but dont let people steal from you. Travis and Becky were together for a weekend in Paris. Becky took Travis under her wing and showed him all the places that were now her stomping grounds. They ate cials; she made and completed a checklist of sights she wanted to see. Becky stayed in an apartment owned by a French couple who would cook her dinner on Wednesday nights and show her easy ways to get around the city. Rosy and Pierre along with 8+ years of studying the French language aided in Beckys acclimation to Paris. Like Travis did in London, Becky followed the basics while in Paris. Had lunch by the Thames River, watched the French Open and tried an assortment of indigenous cheeses; her favorite was Compte. Becky was in Paris during a national music festival and described it as her best day. All throughout the streets of Paris there was a cluster of smells from vending carts, different songs blasting over each other from all distances and men handing out French flags; all continuing to the morning hours. Becky and Travis kept an open mind, did their best to complete their checklists and inhaled and absorbed the spirits and culture of the cities they visited. Feeling at home, comfortable and most of all- having a fun, exciting trip came easily after that!

image: Becky Bond 12

Paris to explore and visit his friend, Becky Bond. Becky had been working at an internship as well as taking courses abroad, and when Travis arrived, she had somewhere to be. Travis took it upon himself to roam around the streets of Paris, eat a ham and cheese baguette in front of the Eiffel Tower and unfortunately for him, get robbed by a gypsy. Being bold and adventurous is a necessary characteristic to de-

dinner in ritzy parts of the city and saw Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the infamous Arc de Trimophe. Becky enjoyed Paris in a very respectful and admirable way. She loved the allure of the city itself; all the lights, the glistening streets, amazing architecture and all filled with people who were dressed up wherever they went. Beckys goal in Paris wasnt to impress the French or meet any government offi-

Destructive Floods Hit Philadelphia

WES MANDOSKE 13 So I awoke Thursday Sept. 8 thinking that I totally missed my 8 a.m. class and was likely late. Not so much. I checked my phone and read the text: Classes cancelled until 12:30 p.m.. I breathed a sigh of relief at our second late opening that week. I peeked out my Fitz window towards the soccer fields. I saw brown water below. Hoodie on, shoes tied and Im out the door with my roommates and friends. I step outside and I hear a constant rumbling coming from below the wall. Chestnut Hill was an island. On Thursday, Sept. 8, Chestnut Hill and the Philadelphia area suffered severe flooding that greatly impacted city services, SEPTA and caused bridge and road closures. At about 9:20 a.m. the Wissahickon had far outgrown its banks was moving briskly over the soccer field, through the tennis courts and was falling like rapids into the outdoor volleyball court. At that time, four cars were partially submerged in the resurgent Wissahickon. River water had reached the edge of the softball fields and the doors of the Earth Center. Since the late opening of Chestnut Hill, classes have repeatedly been postponed or cancelled due to excessive and potentially dangerous flooding on campus and the surrounding area. The Northeast has been dealing with the three successive hurricanes: Irene, Lee and Katia. Although Lee and Katia were weaker storms, the combined effect of three consecutive direct hits on the Northeast has caused economic damage up and down the coast. At the Germantown Avenue bridge, I met up with some Sugarloaf residents. They had been there for a while and told me that the water had been rising steadily up to the bridge, where it nearly came up onto the deck. They also told me that they had lost power at Sugarloaf. Residents waited until Germantown Avenue was cleared to take the shuttle to campus, but some braved the rain and flooding to walk to Campus. After snapping may pictures of the lower lots asphalt being tossed around by the current, we doubled back to check out the bridge on Northwest Ave. Although the floodgates were down, many drivers attempted to cross the expanse of water before the bridge to find out that there was a bigger, deeper puddle beyond. We tried to warn them, but everyone seemed to frustrated to bother with directions. We walked back along Northwest Ave to check out the stables. I have to say though that walking down the center line of the closed-off Germantown gave me a poignant sort of thrill in those few hours. Approaching me from Sugarloaf was several College employees, particularly Security, Housekeeping and Cafeteria workers, who braved the weather to come to work. Most were forced to either park at the Loaf or walk down from the L bus stop there. For some, this was a colossal effort considering the difficult commuting between road closures and spotty SEPTA bus and rail service. Also braving the weather was a smallish-group of freshman who had come out to play in the rain and see what was actually happening outside their new home. I asked them some questions, but the biggest one was whether they felt disadvantaged by their abridged orientation. One student said, A little, but theyre trying their best. It was a little nerve-racking being thrown into it, but now weve got the hang of it. So they went along on their merry way, but only after I cautioned them to stay out of the water, as the faint smell of sewage hung in the air. Needless to say, I had an interesting day.

The Griffin

CHC Becomes Hogwarts for the Weekend

JESSIE PENNELL 14 Bludgers, broomsticks and brotherly love; Quidditch season is here! As summer winds down and leaves start to fall, the Chestnut Hill Quidditch team begins to prepare for another successful run. Kicking off the festivities is Harry Potter Weekend, a joint effort between the College and the greater Chestnut Hill community. A large aspect of this weekend (starting Friday, Oct. 14) is the Philadelphia Brotherly Love Cup, which is put on by CHC. The Cup, which is free to all, is being held on the soccer fields and will see 16 teams from 13 different colleges, universities, and other organizations battle it out for the title. CHC students have already begun practicing, with sessions on Fridays and Sundays at 1 p.m. These sessions are open to everyone, from the experienced to the curious. Stephanie Rief, a member of last years World Cup team, is excited for the Brotherly Love Cup and hopeful for the teams prospects. Excitement is rampant around campus, and the love for Quidditch is palpable. Its fun, says Rief. The sports aspect is cool, and theres really no other sport that has as much going on at once. For other sports you focus on one goal, but in Quidditch you have to concentrate on five different things at once. According to Rief, this facet of gameplay brings the team closer together because you are always looking out for one another. Caroline Stutz, an active member in both the school team and the Harry Potter Weekend planning process, likes the combination of the competitive and whimsical angles of this unique sport. Stutz, who doesnt play a sport for the school says, I treat it as a sport. I love the aggression and seriousness of it, but at the same time there is a fun spirit. Jade Thompson, a member and supporter of the team adds, we always end up as a family. Another branch of this family is the cheerleading squad, created by Mary Frances Cavallaro and Caitlyn Kain. It started because we wanted to get involved but didnt want to be direct players, Kain says. After the Brotherly Love Cup last year the reception was really good and so we are going to continue. We just have fun with it. For more information on becoming involved with cheerleading, email Mary Frances at cavallarom@ chc.edu. The Cup is only one of many ways that CHC and the Chestnut Hill community are celebrating Harry Potter Weekend. The event will begin with an opening ceremony in Chestnut Hill, and select stores and restaurants in town will be transformed into Hogsmeade, both in aesthetics and services offered. Mask and Foil, CHCs drama club, will also be participating, with several actors becoming beloved Harry Potter characters and adopting Germantown Avenue as their stomping ground for the weekend. Several other events and surprises are planned, and the integration of the College and downtown communities will make the weekend one to remember.

all images: Jessica Veazey 13

The Griffin

STYLE
a grand fashion. Russell Brand led a touching tribute to his late friend Amy Winehouse. He highlighted the most important aspect of her life: her music. Crooner Tony Bennett showed a clip of him and Winehouse in the recording studio. Bruno Mars honored the fallen singer by performing her hit song Valerie. And of course, there were the awards. Big winners included Katy Perry, Justin Bieber, Britney Spears who was honored with the Video Vanguard Award, Tyler, the Creator, and Lady Gaga (or Jo Calderone?).
screenshots: mtv.com

Gaga, Britney, Beyonce Set Records at 2011 VMAS

KRISSTEN APPENZELLER 12 This years MTV Video Music Awards garnered the highest ratings in the networks history. Over 12 million people watched the annual music spectacle. If you werent one of them, heres what you missed: Surprisingly, Lady Gaga was not in attendance. Rather, her male alter ego, Jo Calderone, showed up for her on the black carpet. Gaga as Calderone wore a simple black jacket, white t-shirt, and black pants. His/her other accessories included an Elvis-like coif and a cigarette. Gaga stayed in Jo Calderone attire throughout the entire show and even opened the show with a shaky version of her latest single You and I as this character. Beyonce took to the stage to not only perform her song Love on Top but to also announce her pregnancy. Beyonce and rapper Jay-Z are expecting what is sure to be the next generation of hip-hop royalty. Most people send out baby announcements via mail, but leave it to the bootylicious singer to do it in such

Back to School Playlist from the Style Editors: Bleu and Jen

Joshua James
Folk Singer Sounds Like: William Fitzsimmons, Ray Lamontagne, Bob Dylan This guy will sing you to sleep while you are simultaneously balling your eyes out. How I found him: Genius from iTunes recommended James to me due to my interest in Bon Iver. The track that got me hooked: Crash This Train Other Songs to Check Out: Pitchfork, Losing My Religion (REM Cover)

Blue Sky Black Death

Instrumental Hip-Hop Sounds Like: Kno, Glen Porter, Mr Cooper When you are in your car about to be driving for the longest time or sitting in your room pushing out some last minute homework and want to feel good, then you are definitely in the right place. How I found them: A long trail of clicking on related videos on YouTube The track that got me hooked: The Era When We Sang Other Songs to Check Out: Threads of Gold, My Work Will Be Done

Kito & Reija Lee

Dubstep Sounds like: Nero, Dillon Francis, Munchi Kito is a DJ and Reija Lee is a singer. Pair the two up and you get dubstep/ electro beats with pretty vocals. How I found them: I saw Kito live this summer and liked her set so much I wanted to check out more. Track that got me hooked: Broken Hearts Others to check out: Sweet Talk and Broken Hearts (Dillon Francis remix)

Junior Boys

images: amazon.com

Song I Wish I Had Not Heard This Summer

JEN JONES 12 So it is quarter after 4 on a Saturday afternoon about one week before the start of the school year. I am listening to The Counting Crows perform "A Long December" at Abbey Road Studios, and suddenly it hits me. I need to talk to you guys about the trail of mud the music industry has left us to soak in as Summer 2011 comes to a close. This summer, a film school train wreck graced YouTube with her "unique" style. Kreayshawn, a 21 year old up and coming "artist" dropped the video for her single "Gucci Gucci" in early June, around the same time she signed her deal with Columbia Records. Yes, the same Columbia Records that is home to some of music's greatest such as Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, Johnny Cash and David Bowie for crying out loud. Now, when I am writing about music, I will always turn it on so I can do my best to express how it makes me feel and what the message is really all about. Kreayshawn's "Gucci Gucci" sounds like someone handed a young boy going through puberty a microphone after serving him spiked apple juice. Her whiny, nasally voice makes her lyrical content easy to miss, but luckily I have heard the song enough now to point out some of her best lines: "Im in the coupe cruising / I got the stolen plates serving all the fiends over there by the Golden Gate Bridge / Im colder than the fridge and the freezer." Good to know, girl. Okay, one more for good measure: "So posh, nails fierce with the gold gloss which means nobody getting over me I got the swag and its pumping out my ovaries." Sounds fairly ridiculous on paper, huh? One more thing, Lil Wayne, who at this point needs

Synth-pop/Indie/Electro Sounds like: Hot Chip, Cut Copy, Toro y Moi While theyre not necessarily a new band, I just started listening to them over the summer. They are pretty mellow with an electro edge. Good background music for a chill evening. How I found them: I heard a remix of In the Morning from a friend and decided to check out their original stuff. Track that got me hooked: In the Morning Others to check out: The Reservoir and A Truly Happy Ending

no introduction, released a song in the beginning of the summer titled "How To Love." Critics received the song well in saying that the soft and sweet song was a side of Wayne that has not been seen by the public before. Time out, we are complimenting the guy for finally putting out a less aggressive song that doesn't insult women? In this track he now empathizes with a young woman who is unsure how to love, presumably because of poor treatment from other men in the past, and at the conclusion of the song Weezy assures her that she is beautiful and deserves the best. Now due to the really inappropriate content of his other songs, I cannot compare these lyrics with those of his previous works but if you have a minute: look them up. Hopefully fall will lead to better singles, winter is a good season for break up songs, and at least those are enjoyable most of the time.

The Griffin

What to Wear: Transitioning into Fall

images: flickr.com/cocokelley

images: flickr.com/surfwellshop

images: flickr.com/cocokelley

Going Out Guide: September

Whether youre a new student adjusting to college life, or a returning student trying to get back into the swing of things, be sure to leave room in your schedule for fun. Here are some events going on around the city this fall:

images: flickr.com/surfwellshop

images: flickr.com/surfwellshop

images: flickr.com/surfwellshop

Saturday September 17: Wednesday September Wednesday September

Lupe Fiasco will be performing at the Trocadero Theatre with Big Sean, Miguel, and Tinie Tempah. Tickets are $39.50 in advance.

Sunday October 9:
Welcome autumn at Chestnut Hills Fall for the Arts festival from 11 a.m-5 p.m. Admission is free and there will be live music, crafts, and food.

Saturday October 15:

Minus the Bear at the Electric Factory. Tickets are $20 in advance.

21:
Philly Phasion Phest presents Phashion in a Phlash. The night will start off at 7 p.m. with mobile fashion shows around Center City and end with a main event at the Shops at Liberty Place. Tickets for students are $25.

28:
Mac Miller will be performing at the Electric Factory. Tickets are $20 in advance.

The Griffin

A Letter from the Editor:

Losing Confidence: Americas Credit Crisis

WES MANDOSKE 13 The recent credit downgrade has caused a worldwide stir about the viability of the U.S. as a long-term investment or perhaps as stable nation. According to the more dramatic news personalities, it may seem that this is the end of the United States or perhaps, more moderately, that the world is losing confidence in the stability of our political system and commitment to good business practice. But I dispute that assertion. On 5 August, New Yorkbased Standard & Poors (S&P), one of the leading credit and investment rating agencies worldwide, downgraded the long-term sovereign credit rating of United States Treasury Bills from a prime investment rating of AAA to the rating one rank below, AA+. This happened despite the political clash-of-titans about raising the public debt ceiling and preventing a hypothetical default on the outstanding bills of the United States. This concluded, they thought, with an eleventh-hour bill that raised the debt ceiling and created a bi-partisan super committee of both House and Senate members to recommend further cuts. Two other major ratings firms, Moodys Investor Services and Fitch Ratings have maintained triple-A ratings for the U.S., but both concur with S&Ps negative long-term outlook. So why has Standard & Poors taken this remarkable course of action? It seems that there is less faith in the current political climate to adequately address and respond to pressing economic problems. Standard & Poors cited these political reasons in their revelatory report: The political brinkmanship of recent months highlights what we see as Americas governance and policymaking becoming less stable, less effective, and less predictable than what we previously believed. The statutory debt ceiling and the threat of default have become political bargaining chips in the debate over fiscal policy. To me, S&P is reflecting what most Americans already think about the national political arena. But on a larger level, the polemics that became so ingrained into American political discourse have so completely distorted the purpose and functions of the offices they hold as to deprive the American public of the benefit of good governance. Despite the downgrade, there has been little lasting effect on the financial markets. However, there has been an enormous effect in the collective minds of other nations. To the international community, S&Ps action represents a loss of confidence in the American political system. Moreover, it serves as depressing reminder to Europe of its own sovereign-debt crisis in Greece and

OPINION
in other member states. Other nations around the world shuddered at the possibility of losing the economic anchor that is American public finance. The Peoples Republic of China, the largest single holder of U.S. sovereign debt at approximately 10%, has chosen to reaffirm its faith in U.S. credit. During Vice-President Joe Bidens four-day trip to Beijing in August, Biden advocated for American credit. And despite some of the purported lecturing by the official Xinhua News Agency, Chinese leaders publicly announced their willingness to partner with the United States. Perhaps in this tense climate of financial uncertainty, we can learn some lessons about the role of the U.S. in the world economy. More than ever it seems that other nations are looking again to the United States for leadership. Congress should cease fighting for the sake of fighting. Working towards an equal compromise is far more productive than the endless strutting and chest-beating of Congress at large. This credit downgrade represents a growing public awareness of our interconnectedness to the world economy. I hope this perceived vulnerability becomes the impetus behind a concerted effort in strengthening our own position and leads to growth of international cooperative action.

Dear Reader.
It is with incredible gratitude that we present this years first edition of The Griffin. Especially when just over the length of two years, our newspaper has undergone many noteworthy changes. By reforming sections, improving upon editorial technique, and working to enhance visual appeal, The Griffin has truly developed into a continuous triumph. We begin this year with a team of editors that have demonstrated their skill and dedication to writing and revising. With a large group of editors both new and old, a sort of balance among opinions and ideas is provided. Those students have proven themselves as risk-takers, consistently challenging new modifications. A quote from one of my favorite authors, Paulo Coehlo reads, When you want something,all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it. This quote lends truth to the ambitions of our paper. I trust that I can speak for all of the editorial staff as well as our contributing writers when I say, that without a certain spark of desire, our newspaper would not be what it is today. By recognizing our goals, we have interpreted them into a published reality. As a mission that is stressed amongst The Griffins entire staff and that of our institution, let us carry on the legend of credible work and daring changes. Amiably, Olivia Marcinka 13 Editor-in-Chief

Commuters Faced with Day-to-Day Problems

ALEXANDRA FUSCO 14 Oh. Thats the response that commuters receive when they tell many resident students that they do not live on campus. Commuter students face many issues and challenges that many residents dont even need to consider. Among the commuter population, there seems to be a consensus that the college could improve upon some of the issues currently faced by commuters. For instance, the new swipe system installed in the school is a great technological improvement; however this system excludes commuter students, who cannot swipe into dorms. In conducting research on the topic, I have heard several explanations as to why commuters cannot swipe including We just dont know who you are, you dont pay to live here and the sign-in system works just fine for you people and my personal favorite, we have it working for residents so why mess with it just for commuters. Commuter students want to be able to swipe into dorms and feel like they are a part of campus, not just day visitors. By not allowing commuter students to use the swipe system, it appears that Chestnut Hill College is encouraging non residents to relax in the Commuter Lounge, or commuter hallway as it is referred to by many students instead of hanging out in the dorms. Resident Christina Girouard admitted that she was not even aware that the Commuter Lounge was a lounge; she thought it was a hallway where people waited for classes. Its regrettable to know that commuters do not even have a lounge to be proud of. These two challenges alone heighten the issue that some commuters have in regards to making friends. Having to face the hassle of signing into dorms, and then having no real place to relax commuters feel like going home is the best option. As Vice President of the Commuter Club, it is disconcerting to know that commuters have to face such a situation. Commuter students need to get involved and stay involved in student activities, but if they do not feel comfortable or welcome on campus why would they stay if they dont have to? The Commuter Club wants to improve upon these issues and more while making the club a place for commuter students to gather together to share their commuting experiences and make friends.

SPORTS
AIZAZ GILL 14 The Philadelphia Eagles have signed Pro Bowl CB Nnamdi Asomugha. With those words, the much maligned Eagles brass, consisting of Andy Reid, Joe Banner and Howie Roseman, sent a clear message to their fans, the players and the rest of the league: It is Super Bowl or bust for the 2011-2012 NFL season. The acquisition of Asomugha, a shutdown corner and the marquee free agent in this years market, was announced on the heels of a significant trade involving former QB Kevin Kolb. The man who was once considered to be the future of the Eagles franchise was traded to the Arizona Cardinals for Pro Bowl CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a second round pick in next years draft. Cromartie and Asomugha provide much needed aid to an Eagles secondary that struggled mightily last season having given up a franchise record 31 touchdown passes despite having Pro Bowl CB Asante Samuel. More often than not, QBs threw away from Samuels and to the opposite side of the field. With Samuel out of the equation and the Eagles other CBs not playing as well as the front office and fans had hoped, a huge weakness was exploited in the Eagles secondary which led to an early playoff exit. The Eagles realized that they needed to improve their secondary and with Asomugha, DRC, and Samuels the Philadelphia Eagles have on paper what is considered to be the best secondary in the league.

The Griffin

flickr.com/ kevinwburkett

An Explosive Offseason for the Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles did not stop with just Asomugha on defense. The Birds also signed DE Jason Babin and DT Cullen Jenkins to shore up a defense line that was largely inconsistent last year and plagued with injuries. Babin is expected to play opposite Trent Cole on the line and with that tandem who combined for 22.5 sacks last year, QBs wont want to stay in the pocket too long against the Eagles. After giving the defense a much needed upgrade, Joe Banner focused on the offensive side of the football by adding insurance to an already dynamic attack. Former Titans QB Vince Young, who possesses a 30-17 win loss record as a starter, was signed to be Michael Vicks backup. The Eagles brass is aware of the fact that Michael Vick significantly bolsters their chances to hoist the Lombardi Trophy. However, Vick just turned 31 and has a well documented history of injury issues. Young gives them a viable option as the backup just in case of a worst case scenario with Vick. The Eagles also obtained the services of former Dolphins RB Ronnie Brown who was the second overall pick in the 2005 draft. Brown was a vital weapon for a ferocious Dolphins running attack and will provide the Birds with some versatility in the rushing game. Ronnie Brown became the 5th former first rounder along with Babin, Cromartie, Young and Asomugha to be acquired by the Eagles during the 2011 free agency period. A free agent signing frenzy such as this one is quite out of character for the Reid Era and the fact that its

College Staff Profile: Nikki Lockhart

EBONY WASHINGTON 12 hart. Sometimes I play the role of a mother figure when students need someone to talk to, probation officer when they are not excelling in classes, a friend to talk to, a mentor, supportive fan, and some days Im just Nikki. What Lockhart enjoys most about her position at Chestnut Hill is being able to work with athletes every day, the staff that she works with, and the relationships that she is able to build. On the other hand, her job becomes complicated when she cannot get students to value the significance of how important it is that they comply with her expectations. Lockhart wants the best for all student athletes and hopes that they are aware that they do have a support system in the athletic department. Lockhart who was born and raised in Rochester, New York attended an all-girls Catholic High School. Chestnut Hill reminds her of her old school. Chestnut Hill College makes me feel closer to home, she said. The hallways were small and I was in the first class that graduated with a coed class. Before accepting her position at Chestnut Hill College, Lockhart was a former student-athlete at Fairleigh Dickinson University, a Division I school in Teaneck, NJ, where she pursued her B.A. in Humanities as well as worked in the Academic Advising office as a graduate assistant. Lockhart feels that her background in sports enabled her to relate to student-athletes and their challenges. My coach used to have us practice at 7 a.m., every morning, Lockhart said. For some of my teammates it was an easy task; however others struggled with the early morning work outs and classes. Though Lockhart has not been at CHC for very long, she has contributed and established a lot that will help to prepare future student athletes and continue to motivate them in their future endeavors. These steps include but are not limited to: student counsel-

happening now demonstrates that the Eagles are determined to finally win the Super Bowl. Along with creating unprecedented amount of enthusiasm within fans, the commitment to winning has lured players like Brown to Philadelphia. The former first round pick took less money and a one year deal in order to play on the Eagles. At the end of the day, you want to win games, Brown said regarding why he chose Philadelphia. Thats why youre here. My ultimate goal at this level is to win a championship. This is a situation where I think I can do that. It was that very message that the Eagles were hoping to send to their fans when they signed Nnamdi Asomugha and took the first step to building the championship team that this city has been desperately waiting for.

When you dont attend class, your professors call her. If you need a shoulder to lean on, you visit her. If youre a student-athlete, you know her. Who is she? She is Nikki Lockhart, assistant athletic director for academic success and community engagement. Though Lockhart is new to the Chestnut Hill College family, she adapted both efficiently and effectively. She made it a priority that all student-athletes not only focus on their sport but work hard in the classroom as well. In this position I wear a lot of different hats, said Lock-

ing, maintaining study hall, and helping students to prioritize. Lockhart hopes that athletes will be able to understand and appreciate the value of hard work and dedication in the classroom. She also wants to see everyone taking advantage of the resources and opportunities that the College provides. A quote by Theodore Roosevelt reiterates this concept, saying, Nothing worth having was ever achieved without effort. Lockhart loves this quote; it reflects her philosophy. I can give you the basics to succeed, Lockhart said, but I cannot attend class for you.

The Griffin

SPORTS
image: Jessica Veazey 13

Womens Soccer Team Journeys to Ireland

MARILEE GALLAGHER 14 The womens soccer team proved that going abroad isnt just for studying anymore when they traveled as a team to Ireland to participate in some international friendlies against European football clubs. The Chestnut Hill College Womens Soccer Team had the opportunity to do something that no other CHC sports team had ever done. As a team, they traveled to Ireland for an 11 day visit which included three matches against Irish club teams and tours of the country. On August 6th, the soccer team reached their destination of Dublin, Ireland to begin their journey in the Emerald Isle. The Lady Griffins began their first day in Ireland by taking a tour of some of the countrys most beautiful sights. They visited Glendalough, the site where movie scenes from P.S. I Love You and Braveheart were filmed. After eating dinner at the hotel, the team practiced for their first club match which was set to take place the next day. It was beautiful, recounted junior co-captain Shannon Catts about the Irish scenery. Catts and her co- captains, Lauren Riff 12 and Lauren Brown 12 were asked to keep a blog of their adventures that appeared on griffinathletics.com. The captains were asked to keep the blog updated so every night our team would meet up in the hotel, Catts said, adding that the blog was a way for fellow Chestnut Hill students, faculty and staff to follow the events of the soccer team. Catts, Brown and Riff all worked together with the team to write entries almost every day about the main points of their trip. It was pretty cool to sit around with the team and discuss what we would write to Greg and griffinathletics.com each day, Catts said, pointing out that the blog was entirely a team collaboration and that the girls enjoyed keeping it updated. It was not long into the trip that the Lady Griffins got their first taste of the level of international competition. The soccer competition was very high, Catts said adding that, a lot of the teams had national players on them. After their first international friendly, the Irish team invited the Griffins to have lunch with them which according to the team was a very fun and enjoyable experience. They finished the day by shopping, touring the Guinness Factory and eating in Swords, a town outside of Dublin. The Griffins played two more international friendlies to close out their trip including a match against the Cabinteely Ladies Football Club, a very talented Irish team. Compared to teams in our conference their forwards and midfielders had amazing shots from 20 yards out, Catts said about the talent and skill of the club. The Griffins were forced to adapt from their conference style of play against this team but in the end the girls believed the hard work will pay off and that the experience gained from playing overseas will translate into bet-

High Expectations for the Mens Soccer Team in 2011

MARILEE GALLAGHER 14 Last year, the Griffins successfully made it to the postseason for the first time in school history under new head coach, Keith Cappo. This year, aided by new freshmen talent and a strong crop of returning players, the team hopes to make it even further. The Griffins are putting it all on the line to become the CACC Champions and with the tournament taking place right here at CHCs own Victory Field, the motivation to win is higher than ever. The Griffins enjoyed their best record last season since joining the CACC, finishing strong with a 9-10 overall record and a 5-6 record in the conference. They hope to build on and better that this year aided by a strongly recruited freshmen class with six new players who will all vie for significant playing time and the return of seven starters including CACC AllTournament selection, Darryl Richardson 13 and All-Conference selection and co-captain, Gavin Reid 12. The Griffins remain strong in both the midfield and defense but perhaps the most important returning player is junior goal keeper and co-captain, Mike Goldstein. Goldstein was a huge part of the Griffins success last year as he ranked second in the CACC in saves, fifth in save percentage and fifth in shutouts. The Griffins began the 2011 season with high expectations and in the first month of play they have already secured a tournament title in winning the West Chester University Tournament. After ending regulation tied against California University (PA), the Griffins went on to win in penalty kicks with a score of 1-0. This victory advanced the Griffins to the final stage of the tournament where they faced the host colleges Golden Rams. The score was tied at no goals apiece until senior midfielder, Anthony OConnor, scored in the 25th minute to give the Griffins the lead. This would end up being the winning goal as Goldstein, already almost doubling the amount of shut outs he had last year with five, kept the Rams off of the score card and helped the Griffins to a 1-0 win over West Chester in the championship final. The CHC Mens Soccer Team is expected to compete and contend with the top teams in the playoffs. With a preseason ranking of seventh no one in the conference is really expecting a drastic improvement on the part of the team but the Griffins coach Cappo sees differently. We expect to represent the college in the CACC playoffs and we will do

ter play this season. For the Griffins, the trip was more than just brushing up on their soccer skills before the season, it was also about team bonding and experiencing cultures outside of their backyard. As a team we all ran into the freezing cold ocean, Riff said when talking about how the girls did everything as a team. Riff and Brown also commented on how the sights they saw including a castle in the middle of nowhere and the opportunity to climb the beautiful Cliffs of Moher, all helped them get closer as a team and develop great friendships along the way. Going abroad with your team is a once and a lifetime experience that none of us will ever forget, Catts said. Ireland made our team into a little family.

so in pride, he said. For Cappo, if the Griffins finally won it all this year it would be a great accomplishment but it would also have special meaning to the Griffins one time assistant coach. When Cappo first joined CHC, this years seniors were freshmen and he wants nothing more than to send his first group of athletes off on a winning note. It would be extra special to have them play for a conference championship at our home field, Cappo said adding that Victory Field would be the perfect place for the Griffins to finally accomplish what he knows they can and that is winning the CACC Championship.