12:7:2016

Christmas

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‘Director’s Cut’

Opinion

Sports

Vine

Rushing toward Christmas can diminish the holiday spirit.

The Stags fall to No. 15 ranked Michigan State in the first round of the NCAA. Page 15

Students make their debut as directors with their 10-minute plays.

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THE M RROR

Independent student newspaper

Week of December 7, 2016

Vol. 42 Iss. 12

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First Female Lay Interim President Was Nominated

By Jesse Erickson Editor-in-Chief Dr. Lynn M. Babington, PhD, RN was named Interim President of Fairfield University on Dec. 1. Babington, who will replace Rev. Jeffrey P. von Arx S.J., will begin her appointment on Jan. 1, 2017 and will hold the position until June 2017 until Fairfield announces who will take on the permanent role next fall.

Babington has played a significant role at the University for more than three years.

Beginning in 2012, she held the role of Dean of the School of Nursing at Fairfield until she made the transition to Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs in 2014.

Babington discussed how being a nurse has shaped her for the upcoming position at Fairfield.

“I think being a nurse helps one relate and translate complex health care information to patients and families, and then transfers the needs of patients and families to physicians and other health care providers on the team,” said Babington. “And I think that role of listening and translating has served me very well in all of my roles, particularly as a leader. It has helped me translate the bigger picture of what’s going on in higher education to the faculty and staff, and really translate the importance and uniqueness of our education system here at Fairfield.”

During the next semester, Babington will continue to guide Fairfield through its largest capital campaign in the University’s history. According to News@Fairfield, the campaign, Fairfield Rising is in its final stages and is expected to reach its goal of $160 million by its conclusion.

Across campus, students, staff and faculty have become well aware of the changes taking place through the newly renovated Leslie C. Quick Recreational Complex, as well as the expansion and renovation of the Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies.

In addition, Babington is looking forward to the opportunity to engage with the student body given her newly-appointed position.

“I’ve been around, and available, and very engaged with faculty and staff and somewhat with students. I plan on increasing my engagement with students and attending and participating in activities like sporting events,” said Babington. “I have visited some student classrooms, of course, but not as

Read Babington on Page 

Contributed by Lynn Babington Babington formerly served as the Provost and V.P. of Student Affairs.

Information Compiled from the Clery Reports of each university, U.S. News and World Report, and The U.S. Justice Department

Sexual Assault Remains an Issue on College Campuses

By Deanna Carbone Contributing Writer According to the United States Justice Department, 1 in 5 women while 1 in 7 men will experience sexual assault on a college campus “When I was going on college tours, I saw posters around most of the schools saying that 1 in 5 girls get sexually assaulted on campus,” said Kristen Gibney ‘19. “Sexual assault seemed like an issue before I knew what college I was going to.”

Gibney’s statements reflect those of many students. The statistic indicates that 20 percent of female college students will be victims of sexual assault.

The Jeanne Clery Act defines sexual assault as “rape (oral, anal or vaginal), fondling, incest or statutory rape.” The Clery Act is a consumer protection law that requires all colleges and universities who receive federal funding to share information about crime on campus. It also outlines who the incident should be reported to, their

policies and procedures, and the resources provided both on and off campuses for a student, according to the Clery Center’s website. Fairfield’s Clery Report can be found on Fairfield’s website.

Dean of Students Karen Donoghue explained some of the resources that victims of sexual assault have access to on campus, including a confidential advisor. The confidential advisor would be the person they tell their story to.

“The confidential advisor provides additional resources to survivors,” said Donoghue.

“They help walk them through the process and can serve as their voice for them, so that the survivor only has to tell their story once. A survivor can find it re-victimizing to have to repeat their story.”

Current reporting procedures are outlined in the school’s handbook, which cites two different ways of reporting an incident of sexual misconduct.

Read Universities on Page 

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THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

News

Knofla Discussed Managing Stress

Top 10 Schools with The Most Sexual Assault Cases in the U.S.

By Juliana Sansonetti Assistant News Editor Dealing with busy college lives is a topic that almost all Fairfield students can relate to. On Nov. 30, in the Charles F. Dolan School of Business Dining Room, motivational speaker Tracy Knofla spoke on the topic of thriving in chaos and how to better manage different responsibilities.

Knofla has acted as a motivational speaker for 25 years. She has traveled the country speaking to higher education, corporate and nonprofit audiences. Additionally, she has authored a book called “Thriving in Chaos.”

Knofla came to Fairfield as the kickoff event of Project Yes You Can, a new club at Fairfield that was started by Margaret Moore ’19 that teaches people that all goals can be accomplished.

Moore, who was born with cerebral palsy, a physical disability that impairs muscle control, said, “My family raised me like any other child, teaching me that I was no different than anybody else, and that I could achieve anything that I set my mind to … I have received a normal education, I am living out my dream of becoming a writer and author and I have done some crazy awesome things like zip-lining and parasailing.”

Moore came to the realization that the way she was raised is not the norm and that many disabled people do not receive a “normal” education. Eventually, both abled and disabled, give up on their dreams because they do not have faith that they can accomplish them.

“I decided I needed to change this, so for my Girl Scout Gold Award project, I established an initiative known as The Yes You Can Movement by speaking to audiences about overcoming obstacles to achieve those so-called impossible dreams and by blogging about my experiences on a Facebook page called The Yes You Can Movement,” Moore continued.

Moore decided that she wanted to have an even larger role in creating change, so she created Project Yes You Can at Fairfield.

The club was approved in October and will begin having regular meetings in

Read New on Page 

9.

3.

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1. Brown University 2. University of Connecticut 3. Dartmouth University 4. Wesleyan University 5. University of Virginia 6. Harvard University 7. University of North Carolina Charlotte 8. Rutgers University- New Brunswick 9. University of Vermont 10. Stanford University

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Information contributed from The Washington Post

Universities Are Taking Strides to Address Sexual Assault Continued from page 

According to the handbook, “A Title IX Sexual Misconduct Complaint is an invocation of the student’s right to have the incident handled through University disciplinary proceedings, while an Incident Report alerts the Department of Public Safety of alleged sexual misconduct and to provide first responder assistance to a complainant of sexual misconduct.”

The Contacts and Resources page of the website says that “the University encourages any student who has been a victim of sexual assault or harassment to report the incident to the University’s Title IX Compliance Coordinator, Public Safety or the Office of the Dean of Students.”

Similar to Fairfield, whose undergraduate population is 3,970, Sacred Heart University has a smaller undergraduate population of 5,205. In 2015, Fairfield reported a total of four sexual assault incidents on campus, while Sacred Heart reported zero of these cases on their campus, according to each school’s Clery Reports.

“We know statistically that 20 percent of women will experience sexual assault during their college years,” said Donoghue. “We haven’t received that type of reporting, but that’s similar to college campuses. Sexual assault is the most underreported crime on college campuses.”

Both Fairfield and Sacred Heart follow a similar route for victims of sexual assault to come out to the school. Title IX Coordinator at Sacred

Heart, Lenora Campbell said that all students who have experienced or witnessed any form of sexual misconduct or harassment are encouraged to come out to her or the administration.

“It is the responsibility of every ‘Pioneer’ in the Sacred Heart community to comply with the laws and regulations of Title IX to ensure we have a safe environment conducive to learning and student success,“ said Campbell.

Campbell also mentioned multiple programs that advocate for a safe environment on campus, such as survivor candlelight vigils and the Walk-a-Mile in Her Shoes campaign.

Similarly to Sacred Heart, Fairfield also has series designed to address the issue of sexual assault on campus in an attempt to search for a solution to the problem. The University has held the program Step Up Stags since 2014, and in October, in honor of domestic violence month, Fairfield screened the movie “Daisy,” which recounts stories of sexual assault. Additionally, in First Year Experience classes, freshmen are educated on the topics of alcohol culture and hookup culture.

Unlike Fairfield and Sacred Heart, the University of Connecticut has a larger student body with an undergraduate population of 18,826.

Having a total of 49 sexual assault cases in 2015, according to UConn’s 2016 Clery Report, UConn’s ratio of undergraduate population to sexual assault cases is 145:1. Alternatively, Fairfield’s ratio of undergraduate population to sexual assault

cases is 993:1.

When asked if sexual assault is considered a big problem on campus, Lieutenant Andrew Fournier of the UConn police department said, “If you even have one sexual assault case a year, it should be considered a big problem. We don’t take sexual assault cases lightly.”

Assistant Director of DPS John Ritchie agreed with Fournier saying, “Sexual assault is an issue on every college campus — Fairfield is not exempt. It’s a matter of how you want to define big.”

Ritchie added that while, statistically speaking, Fairfield only has four sexual assaults, sexual assault still remains an issue on college campuses.

According to Fournier, UConn has its own police department and is able to conduct their own investigation, which differs from procedures conducted by Fairfield and Sacred Heart.

Some of UConn’s resources include self-defense courses, entitled “Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) Basic Personal Defense System,” specially geared to both women and men, according to Fournier. Fournier added that these courses count for academic credit for those that take them.

According to Donoghue, Fairfield is taking further action to combat sexual assault on campus by sending out a survey “regarding a climate assessment about the attitude and behaviors toward sexual assault and sexual assault awareness.”

Babington Plans to Engage With Students as Interim President Continued from Page  much with all of the student activities.”

Alumna Katie Sirna ‘16 graduated from the School of Nursing and spoke highly of Babington while she was still the Dean, noting her significant involvement with the students back in 2013.

“I met with her about trying to get an internship as a rising junior, which is unheard of, and she met with me and gave me tips that were super helpful to prepare me for things like that,” said Sirna.

“She even wrote me a recommendation letter.”

Babington is hopeful that by engaging with the student body, she will be able to achieve her goal of uniting the Fairfield faculty, staff, students and surrounding community to understand the special academic institution that is Fairfield.

Senior Kelly Alberti is hopeful that Babington will be able to connect better with the student body than she feels Fr. von Arx did.

“I feel that the President of our University should have a much more personal connection with the students. This will allow us to build great relationships and could strengthen the sense of community on campus,” said Alberti. “I personally don’t feel that I know much of anything about our current president because he is so distant from the student

body.”

When asked what Babington would like to improve on campus, Babington talked about how her research studies in nursing have influenced what she wants to improve.

“All of my research as a nurse has been working with immigrant groups and increasing access, and culturally appropriate health care, to wide varieties of population and that same is true in academics,” said Babington. “As a university community, I think we need to continue to grow in our multi-cultural competencies and we have to really grow in our pride for who we are as an institution.”

Diversifying campus is constantly an obstacle for Fairfield, as only 14 percent of students here are minorities, according to Fairfield’s website.

The appointment of Babington will mark the first time in Fairfield history that the University has not only a female president, but also a non-clergy member. The news was well-received by many students.

“The Nursing School here is a great program; it’s No. 7 in the country. She obviously knows what she’s doing,” said Tracy Lebeau ‘18. “She made the Nursing School great, so I’m sure she’ll help Fairfield out.”

Junior Liam Cahill echoed similar statements.

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror Babington gathered among students at FUSA’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

“I know that traditionally, for the Jesuit values, it helps to have a Jesuit in that position, but I think it’s also important that we test out the options too, since that has been such a priority in the past years,” said Cahill. “It’s kind of good that we get a perspective from a lay person and see how that works for us

rather than just going with business as usual.”

During the next sixth months, according to Babington, the University will continue the search for a new president as well “continue growth in the areas of graduate and continuing studies here.”

THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

News

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The Mirror Reflects on this Week in Social Media

Compiled by Catherine Veschi Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.

Thursday, 12/1 4:48 p.m.- The Department of Public Safety is investigating a drug dealing complaint in both Campion Hall and Gonzaga Hall. The matter is still under investigation.

Sunday, 12/4 3:18 a.m.- Two females who reside in Loyola Hall took baby Jesus from the manger in the traffic circle. The females were identified and baby Jesus was returned to his cradle.

Sunday, 12/4 3:18 p.m.- A student reported harassment from her off-campus boyfriend. The young man was asked not to return to campus and he accepted the warning.

CORRECTION BOX In our story titled “State of the University Address Highlighted Future of Fairfield” in our November 30 issue, we incorrectly reported that Reverend Jeffrey P. von Arx, S.J. said during his address that “We’ve also committed ourselves not to be raising undergraduate tuition in view of the cost of living for the forseeable future,” when in fact he said the University would not raise tuition “beyond the cost of living.”

CAU TTIO N O I N U CA THE MIRROR Incorporated 1977

Jesse Erickson, Editor-in-Chief Andrew DaRosa, Executive Editor Ariana Puzzo, Managing Editor Editors Catherine Veschi, News Juliana Sansonetti, Assistant News Deanna Carbone, Assistant News Brendan Zimmerman, Opinion Colleen O’Connor, Vine Alicia Phaneuf, Assistant Vine Gabriella Minos, Coffee Break Alfredo Torres, Sports Daniel Montgomery, Assistant Sports Allison White, Chief Copy Editor Online Bradley Nordstrom, Web Master Nicole Funaro, Online News Editor Shana Lynch, Online Vine Editor Kelley Eckert, Online Coffee Break Editor

New Club Hosted Kickoff Event Continued from page  January.

Knofla, who met Moore five years ago through Girl Scouts, wanted to speak at the kickoff event when she found out that Moore was starting a club.

“I think [Project Yes You Can] has such great potential here,” said Knofla. “I’m so proud of Meg for bringing it to Fairfield and I think it’s the exact right kind of organization for this campus.”

“The social justice nature of the order here lends itself perfectly to the kinds of goals that Project Yes You Can has and I think the students here will be really interested in helping to make a difference in the community,” Knofla continued.

According to Moore, Knofla’s speech was only the beginning.

Project Yes You Can will have motivational events, fundraisers for charities, hospital visits and fun activities that will teach people that they can accomplish anything that they set their minds to.

“The goal of the organization is to go out into the community and work with cancer patients, disabled people and the general [public], including the University community, [in order] to teach them [how] to have a positive outlook and how to overcome obstacles to achieve their dreams and goals,” said Moore. “We are looking to do work on campus and to visit medical facilities to do so.”

The first event of the organization was Knofla’s speech, en-

Business Department Email: advertising@fairfieldmirror.com Stephanie Van Fleet, Director of Finance Madeleine Sandie, Director of Advertising Marcus DeSouto, Circulation Adviser Dr. Tommy Xie Contact Information Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, BCC 104 Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824 General email: info@fairfieldmirror.com

Juliana Sansonetti/The Mirror Tracy Knofla demonstrated stress in college using student volunteer Christina Ni ‘19 and various items that she brings around the country.

titled, “Thriving in Your Crazy College Life” and seemed to be well-received by students.

“I learned a lot,” commented attendee Katie Caldwell ’20. “[Tracy] taught me that I need to manage my time and think about a schedule before I start doing things.”

Knofla’s speech, which was interactive, tackled subjects like stress, procrastination and time management.

“There are a lot of different things competing for our time and lots of times, fun wins out over things like schoolwork,” said Knofla. She indicated that this only leads to more stress.

Knofla asked her audience what kinds of things are obstacles to their success. Many students volunteered answers such as procrastination, busy social lives and having too many commitments.

“Sometimes it seems like too much and you want to just pull the covers over your head and stop, but we can’t do that,” said Knofla.

Knofla explained that we thrive off of busyness and chaos, and that we would be bored if we had nothing to do.

As part of her talk, Knofla asked for a volunteer from the audience. She ended up choosing Christina Ni ‘19.

Knofla asked everyone to line up and hand Ni items that represented stressful things that they have to get done. Afterwards, Knofla informed Ni that she could have asked for help from the crowd or used the various bags that were handed to her for assistance. The interactive activity demonstrated that people often have access to resources that they do not even realize they have.

Ni said of the event, “I do [feel like I got a lot out of it], but also I felt like there could have been improvements. I understand that it was supposed to be an interactive event and I got to stand up [and volunteer] which was really fun, but I feel like she also should have talked about ways to deal with your stress.”

However, Katie Morton ‘20 had a more positive opinion of the event.

“I thought it was really awesome,” said Morton. “I really liked how Tracy had the volunteer come up and demonstrate what it’s really like to have all that chaos in your life and put it in a three-dimensional image. Tracy made everything really fun.”

Knofla was hopeful that the event would help with some of the stress that Fairfield students experience and that students had some valuable takeaways from her talk that will help with their busy college lives.

Twenty-eight students came out for the event, despite the rainy weather.

According to Moore, “We were happy to have the number of people we had, but I’m going to try to get [Tracy] to come back and do something in Lower Level [Barone Campus Center] to have even more people come.”

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THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

News

Colleges Against Cancer Hosted First Ugly Sweater 5K

By Samantha Moore Contributing Writer After lacing up their sneakers, Stags in ugly sweaters could be spotted running and walking through campus on Dec. 4.

The Ugly Sweater 5K, put on by Colleges against Cancer, raised over $250 and had 25 participants register, according to CAC President Lydia Dupree ‘18.

“As I have had loved ones affected by cancer and have seen how much Relay brings everyone in the community together, I was immediately interested when I heard about CAC my freshman year,” said Dupree about her reasoning for joining CAC. Although the club has participated in similar events like Making Strides of Westport in October, this year’s Ugly Sweater 5K was the first of it’s kind. Students began at the John A. Barone Campus Center green and completed a course extending to the Townhouses, behind the Quad, out the Barlow Road exit, through The Village and ending outside of the BCC. Upon completing the 5K, students returned to the BCC finish line.

“The best part about this 5K is that all of the proceeds are going to a really great cause,” said participant Cate Haggerty ‘19.

Registration for the event cost $10 and supplied participants with food and a raffle ticket. Additional raffle tickets were purchased for $1. All proceeds from the event were donated to the American Cancer Society. According to Dupree, the event served a dual purpose.

“We’re trying to raise awareness for both the club and for Relay for Life,” said Dupree.

For Kim DeRosa ‘17, the Ugly Sweater 5K offered a way to give back to an organization she is passionate about.

“I’m a nursing student and I want to do oncology when I get older,” said DeRosa. “I just wanted to help the cause.”

Decked out in a green penguin sweater and elf socks, Marla Walton ‘19 found the event both fun and rewarding.

“I think it’s a great way to get in the holiday spirit and raise money for the American Cancer Society,” said Walton.

As far as the concept, CAC Vice President Jessica Lowney ‘18 found that with upcoming events such as Midnight Breakfast, students are getting into the holiday spirit.

“I think people are really into ugly sweaters,” said Lowney. “A 5K in the cold, you’ve got to jazz it up a little bit.”

In addition to racing, each participant was entered into a raffle with both Relay for Life and CAC prizes including shirts and water bottles.

Among the various ugly sweater wearing participants was

Joanna Connors ‘20 who donned a Christmas tree sweater. Following the press of a button, the tree lit up. Connors noted that the cause is one that she “truly cares about” and that supporting it through the Ugly Sweater 5K is “a great idea.”

While the event brought students together to run and walk in support of the American Cancer Society, Lowney hoped that CAC offered an entertaining way to give back.

“We hope to get a lot of money for donations, but we just want people to have fun,” Lowney said.

Samantha Moore/The Mirror Students dressed in their ugly Christmas sweaters for a 5K race around the University to raise awareness for cancer.

Sold-Out Midnight Breakfast Is Highly Anticipated by Students

By Juliana Sansonetti Assistant News Editor

tickets because it is their last year to attend.”

A total of 1,500 tickets were sold. Five hundred per seating and 370 per class year, with an additional 20 tickets being sold to graduate students.

Despite many students being unable to get tickets, this year’s Midnight Breakfast is set to have the highest attendance of all time, according to Elliott.

Along with this unique attribute, this year’s Midnight Breakfast has undergone some other changes as well.

One of the changes occurring will be the three seatings, at 8 p.m., 9:30 p.m. and 11 p.m., according to Elliott, as opposed to the two seatings last year at 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m.

Some students believe that there should be a midnight seating, as the event is called Midnight Breakfast.

“I think there should be a midnight seat-

ing because it offers more opportunity for people to be able to go,” said Ro-Anna Thomas ‘17. “I think having an eleven and then a The last day of the semester is that wontwelve gives more options for late night [acderful day when classes are over, finals are tivities] and it opens up more room for people looming in the not-so-distant future and Midwho didn’t get a chance to go.” night Breakfast occurs, the annual event that However, Assistant Vice President of is always looked forward to by students.

Administration and Student Affairs James Fairfield’s 15th Annual Midnight BreakFitzpatrick feels that earlier seatings are more fast will be held in the John A. Barone Main convenient for the majority of students.

Dining Room on Dec. 12.

“When we first started [Midnight BreakThis year, all Midnight Breakfast seatings fast] in 2002, we found that people with exam sold out within a half hour of when they were schedules and student life just didn’t want it put up for sale — both for seniors on Dec. 5 that way.” and for the other three classes on Dec. 6.

According to the Program Coordinator Senior Jennie Chieco tried to get her of the Office of Student Engagement Elizabeth ticket at 8:20 a.m. on Dec. 5, but quickly found Elliott ’15, “The goal of having three seatings out that it was sold out. is to alleviate students having to wait in line While Chieco understands that the Main and to maximize the number of students that Dining Hall cannot accommodate more stuwe can serve in one night. While students will dents, she said, “I think all seniors should get still file up to the Main Dining Room via the Oak Room, there are only enough tickets being supplied for each seating as there are seats in Barone.”

Elliott explained that the purpose of the additional seating time is so students can reach the Main Dining Room more quickly and not have to be asked to leave as soon as they finish eating, as no one will be waiting to take their spot.

“This way, everyone can have the full Midnight Breakfast experience,” said Elliott.

Additionally, this year’s Midnight Breakfast will be hosted by DJ Projo, according to the promotional material for the event.

Projo has acted as the official DJ of the Fairfield Stags for three seasons, according to Elliott. Along with working crowds of as large Information Compiled from Program Coordinator of the Office of Student Engagement Elizabeth Elliot ‘15 as 10,000 people at Webster

Bank Arena for Fairfield basketball games and his own “Celebrity Birthday Experience” concert featuring 2 Chainz and Chris Webby in February 2016, Projo was also the opening act for Lil Dicky at Fairfield University Student Association’s Fall Concert and Red Sea Madness this year.

Projo, who is from Connecticut, is the producer of International Sundays on Hot 93.7FM, the Executive Music Director of the Bridgeport Bluefish and he supplied the soundtrack to Bandaloop, an event that happened on campus in September.

“I’m confident that DJ Projo can keep the energy going in the Main Dining Room, playing those classic songs that so many are looking forward to hearing,” commented Elliott.

According to Elliott, there will also be more formal programming than in past years.

Students will be given the opportunity to compete in the Ugly Sweater Contest, the Holiday Lip Sync Competition and compete for limited edition Midnight Breakfast T-shirts during the event in the Main Dining Room.

Since there will be more time for students to remain at the event, they will have time to eat, as well as do these activities.

The menu is also updated due to feedback received after last year’s Midnight Breakfast, according to Elliott.

According to Fitzpatrick, bacon, egg and cheese breakfast sandwiches, croissant egg and cheese sandwiches and tater tots are among the additions. Also, instead of large containers of orange juice, there will be small orange juice cups and bulk ketchup rather than ketchup packets.

Elliott predicted that Midnight Breakfast will be a success as it always was in past years.

“Midnight Breakfast is one of those traditional Fairfield events that students remember for years to come, which is one of the main reasons it is so popular,” Elliot stated. “The event gets everyone — students, faculty, staff, administration and alumni — in the holiday spirit and allows for the Fairfield University community to come together, to spread holiday cheer and to share in a fun and engaging experience.”

THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

Opinion

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Editor Brendan Zimmerman » opinion@fairfieldmirror.com

Getting Opinionated with The Mirror For Christmas, Patience Is Key

By Grace Bowman Contributing Writer

Christmas is never a quiet holiday. People are not afraid to sing out their joy as the Christmas season closes in on Dec. 25. It seems like everywhere you go, Christmas music is playing, whether it’s in the supermarket, the doctor’s office or even the local bus. White lights line the trees downtown and Christmas trees start popping up in everyone’s windows. We all love the build up to Christmas, but it seems like every year, the buildup starts earlier. Before Thanksgiving rolls around, people are already playing Christmas music and stores are lining the racks with festive decorations. The Christmas season has started to begin too early. Thanksgiving gets lost in the build up of the winter holiday and the special feeling of Christmas gets taken away. The Christmas season can also be stressful for people and if we rush the build up, it may stress people out, leading to a less joyous time.

I have always had a rule: no Christmas music until after Thanksgiving has passed. Nonetheless, there are people who have listened to Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song” since Halloween.

For me, Christmas is the best time of the year, and yes, I could listen to Christmas music all year round and decorate my house with Christmas trinkets to feel that joy year round, but what makes Christmas so special is that it only happens once a year. Things are more enjoyable if they happen less frequently and if we start the build up to Christmas months before the holiday, by the 25th, it Creative Commons/Flickr won’t feel as special.

By Sabrina Musto man is infringing on the free speech that Since the Christmas season is starting earlier, it may cause more stress for some people. You may Contributing Writer Reddit promotes. It sends the message that think that with a longer season it should cause less stress for people, but it can make people start to a group of people’s opinions are not to be stress out earlier than they need to. Now with people buying presents earlier and earlier, it will mean Controversy struck Reddit on Nov. 23 when supported, even though Reddit is a forum that other people will have to start shopping early who may not have the time or money yet to start Steve Huffman, the CEO of the company, admit- for any group. shopping. All holidays can bring stress upon people, but Christmas can be the most stressful. It is a ted to personally editing users’ comments on a Online harassment is a serious issue time when people stress about money, what gift they should get someone, whether the toy their child pro-Donald Trump forum to turn the tables on for Reddit, with the CEO stating himself wanted so badly will be out of stock and whether or not someone will like the gift that you give them. malicious users. According to The Washing- that there are “many toxic users” on the However, the primary source of the stress exists as a result of the build up to Christmas. ton Post, a group of Donald Trump supporters site who participate in online harassment, So for those who are blasting Christmas music and putting up their Christmas tree weeks before were writing nasty comments about the CEO of but he has ensured that Reddit will be Christmas, don’t rush it, Thanksgiving is pretty special too. You’re not going to miss out on ChristReddit, which prompted Huffman to change the cracking down on that issue. In reference mas if you wait two extra weeks and I promise you that it will be more satisfying if you wait. Christcomments so that they would be attacking the to the controversy, Huffman stated that if mas is a special holiday that should not be taken for granted, but by rushing the build-up, we are pro-Trump group leada group was speak- doing just that by celebrating the holiday before the season truly begins. The Christmas season will I am sorry: I am sorry for ers instead. ing or commenting feel more special if you wait until December to start celebrating, so don’t rush the most wonder f u l These actions are compromising the trust you about another em- time of the year. a direct violation of all have in Reddit ... It is ployee in the manner the website’s no editing heartbreaking to think that that the pro-Trump policy and Huffman has group was speaking my actions distracted people and commenting on since apologized for his actions. Huffman also from their family over the the forum, he would assured the press that it holiday, instigated harassban them from the will never happen again ment of our moderators and website immediately, and that he had intended may have harmed Reddit but because the group to revert the comments, was targeting Huffitself, which I love more than man himself, he let it although he never actuthe Reddit employees specifically ally did. Huffman, along just about anything. slide. discussing the editing of the comwith many Reddit users Since Huffman was the ments, which presents yet another and employees, noted of the online harass- negative image of Reddit. Huff– Steve Huffman target Creative Commons/Public Domain Pictures/Pixabay that his interference with ment, he felt that he could man’s actions have definitely lessCEO of Reddit the forum was not the take it and so did not take ened people’s trust with the website a n d with access to what you post or send. Nowadays, correct way to address action on the group. How- lends an unprofessional and childish image that a there is a lot of warning — whether by parents or the situation of online harassment and I per- ever, he is now promising action against those CEO of a major organization is trying to one-up professors or bosses — to never assume that you sonally agree that Huffman took the wrong ap- harassing others on Reddit’s forums. Banning a a group of bullies. I believe that the incident also are secure on the internet and occurrences like proach and interfered where he ethically should group from the website on the grounds of ha- has a lot to say about the security of online fo- the one on Reddit help to prove these statements. not have.While Huffman was clearly frustrated rassment is a much better option than breaking rums as a whole. The incident goes to show that To combat the issue of the lack of security, about online harassment, his decision to violate company policy and personally editing the com- there is always someone with access to change it is important that these online forums are sure the company’s own policies has definitely dam- ments of users who are supposed to feel secure in what is written online and therefore, you cannot to hire individuals who will be able to stick to aged Reddit’s credibility. The Washington Post what they are posting online. trust everything that you come across on the in- company policy and not be enticed by certain usexplained that Reddit is based on the idea that According to The Washington Post, a Red- ternet. ers on their forums. Hiring ethical and stringent any group of people, with any beliefs, can create dit moderator released conversations between I find it difficult to assume that you are se- employees can help to make sure that these politheir own forum and can speak freely on that fo- Huffman and Reddit moderators about the ed- cure when using the internet or apps because cies are correctly enforced and perhaps will cause rum. By changing the comments of users, Huff- ited conversations. These conversations show as previously stated, there are always people users to feel more secure.

Reddit Needs to Respect User Criticism

Editorial Board "What You Don't See"

Jesse Erickson Editor-in-Chief Andrew DaRosa Executive Editor Ariana Puzzo Managing Editor

In a nation fraught with concerns over security in schools, the last thing many parents and students want on their mind is the possibility of an active shooter emerging from within the student body. While attempts are made to crackdown on the influx of mass shootings that have occurred over the past year, many still concur with the notion that gun violence is impossible to predict. Joel Dvoskin, a clinical psychologist, stated to the L.A. Times that “warning signs that are about people’s character are not useful.

There’s no profile, and people who seek to label people as a threat based on their characteristics will mislabel millions and millions of people.”

However, many opinions changed across the country when 20-year-old Adam Lanza killed 27 individuals, 20 of them small chil-

dren, at Sandy Hook Elementary School on Dec. 14, 2012. After almost four years of rebuilding both American morale and the stigma surrounding gun violence, Sandy Hook Promise, a non-profit organization aiding the victims of the Sandy Hook mass shooting, released a Public Service Announcement called “Evan.”

“Evan” tells the tale of a boy’s interest in a girl that he communicates with through writings on a desk. On the last day of school, the girl realizes that the protagonist, Evan, was actually the boy behind the writings and before they can make plans for the summer, another student enters the background with a semi-automatic rifle in hand, instilling a realistic fear within the students’ faces. The PSA then reveals that “gun violence is preventable,” showing various

signs, including isolationism and an inherent interest in arms, in the young man who became the school shooter.

Despite the importance of the PSA, it makes one critical mistake.

That mistake is that they perpetuate the warning signs of a shooter. Some of the stereotypical signs in the PSA revolved around a notion of loneliness and an interest in guns. However, not all shooters will show these signs. Oftentimes, these individuals are emotionally complex and display signs that run against “the norm” presented in the ad campaign.

They did get one important aspect correct, though: individuals are frequently wrapped up in the trivial aspects of life. We are not always focusing on the various environmental factors surrounding us. The issue that the PSA attempts to solve is that

of awareness; being aware of our environment and learning to open our eyes to the background of life rather than honing in on the foreground.

Interestingly enough, Sandy Hook Promise expertly attacked a commonplace issue that our society does not talk enough about: adolescent mental illness. Peter Landman, a clinical psychologist and author of School Shooters .Info, stated, “Adult shooters tend not to engage so much in leakage, but when you’re talking about adolescents, often they talk a lot and they write about it and they post about it, so whatever we can do to educate both students and school staff about the warning signs is really important.” We agree with Landman’s assertion — if our society continues to ignore mental illness, we will be unable to prevent these shootings.

THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

Opinion

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A Tale of Two Castros

By John Hirschauer Contributing Writer For many progressives, it seems as though all you have to do to corrupt their sacrosanct tolerance is to implement single-payer healthcare. In their eulogization of a man who imprisoned and summarily executed his political dissidents, silenced the press and free expression, denied the Cuban people the ability to emigrate, sent homosexuals to internment camps and turned one of the most promising Latin nations into a ration-filled, socialist hellhole, progressives have proven themselves wholly uncertain of the moral legacy of Fidel Castro.

Typically, all that it takes for progressives to adjudicate a person’s moral bankruptcy is to find that another feels that there is a connection between biology and gender. However, when one of the worst people of the 20th century expires, their idea of condemnation is calling the man “controversial.”

President Barack Obama’s idea of acknowledging Castro’s profound evil was to cryptically ambiguate his legacy, as he so often does, by stating that “[h]istory will record and judge the enormous impact of this singular figure on the people and world around him.” Progressive darling Justin Trudeau, prime minister of Canada and golden calf of glorified gender studies conglomerates like Mic and Attn:, had the following to say, with “deep sorrow” and all of the moral clarity of a spoiled toddler: “Fidel Castro was a larger than life leader… [and a] legendary revolutionary and orator... Mr. Castro made significant improvements to the education and healthcare of his island nation.

While a controversial figure, both Mr. Castro’s supporters and detractors recog-

nized his tremendous dedication and love for the Cuban people who had a deep and lasting affection for ‘el Comandante’.”

Leaving aside the fallacious claim about healthcare, Trudeau’s assertion that “Mr. Castro’s … detractors recognized his tremendous dedication and love for the Cuban people” leads me to wonder whether or not Trudeau had the opportunity to ask the political dissidents sent to the firing squad whether they recognized “el Comandante’s” geniality.

The most disturbing aspect of Obama and Trudeau’s statements is the level of both men’s intelligence. AssumCreative Commons/tr.wikipedia.org Creative Commons/www.brookings.edu ing that they are the least bit scholastic about Castro’s record, both Obama and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (left) was criticized for his comments on Castro. Fidel Trudeau are readily aware that Castro Castro's (right) death on Nov. 25 has split world leaders over how to regard his legacy. told an interviewer in 1965 that “a homosexual could [never] embody the con- from their political agendas as a manifestaSo many college kids can yell, “Bush ditions and requirements of conduct that tion of covert intolerance, racism, sexism lied, people died!” in between hits of a would enable us to consider him … a true and all types of unfounded character as- bong, but are utterly unable to list even one Communist militant … [a] deviation of sassination, their inability to speak in clear of the execrable sins of Castro. If the leadthat nature clashes with the concept we terms about actual bigotry is dumbfound- ers of the progressive movement adored by have of what a militant Communist should ing. millennials continue to deal in the world of be.”

It all stems, of course, from the pro- double standards, it seems that Castro will Words, of course, are one thing, but gressive fetishization of single-payer be laid in his tomb with no lessons learned actions are quite another. On Great Brit- healthcare. No human being could be by anyone outside of Cuba or those lucky ain’s PinkNews, an outlet that covers po- morally bad who collectivized medicine, enough to have bridged the Florida strait litical, entertainment and religious news the logic goes. It is a healthcare system without being drowned by Castro’s gunfire. for the LGBT community in the UK and that, to quote Jay Nordlinger, senior ediThe Mirror welcomes the opinions and worldwide, Benjamin Butterworth detailed tor of the National Review, patients must contributions of its readers: Letters to the the experience of Cuban homosexuals un- “bring their own bed sheets, soap, towels, editor must be timely and submitted by email der Castro. “Many received false telegrams food, light bulbs — even toilet paper.” Proto info@fairfieldmirror.com or Box AA. All telling them they had been called for mili- gressives view socialism and communism letters to the editor that are appropriate will tary service and should appear at a chosen with a rogue edginess that appeals to their be published either in print or online. The location,” Butterworth said, “where they pubescent idealism; whatever pernicious Mirror reserves the right to edit letters and would then be rounded into trains, trucks moral calculus allows a college kid to wear articles for content, length and grammatical and buses and sent to the camps with little a T-shirt emblazoned with the communist errors. Letters should be free of obscenities food or water.” murderer Che Guevara is the same one that and personal attacks and should contain corFor two world leaders who have no fuels the embrace of all sorts of vile people rect and factual information. problem labeling every form of dissention in pursuit of socialistic policies.

Clinton Has the Right to Contest Election Results Votes Needed for Clinton to Win Michigan = 10,704 Pennsylvania = 70,638 Wisconsin = 22,177 Creative Commons/New/Slang

By Alexandra Thimble Assistant Opinion Editor Recently, publications such as The New York Times have reported on Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein’s efforts to hold vote recounts in key swing states. In an effort to investigate the fairness of this past election, Stein is specifically looking at possible cases of vote tampering in Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, states that are usually seen as Democratic, but have a high vulnerability to Republican influence should white voters over 50 years old turn out, according to POTUS 2016, a website that offers facts on candidates and their policies. Although both President-elect Donald Trump and other members of the Grand Old Party are now accusing Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton of being hypocritical, she has every right to double check the results of an election that she conceded in.

Trump and other Republicans may have had a right to criticize Clinton if she was leading the measure, but as it stands, Clinton and her staff are reticent regarding their opinion on the investigation.

It’s no wonder; it is unlikely to change how the election turned out and Clinton is most likely tired of having to drag the process on any longer than she needs to. She, like most of America, is tired of the 2016 Election and the ugly, contentious nature of how it unfolded.

To top it off, her loss was one that came after her more than 40 years

Information Compiled from The New York Times

of public service and experience to a man with nothing resembling that, which must be extremely painful. Nonetheless, she conceded with grace and dignity, but enduring the campaign and the result must have taken an emotional toll on her. Given the small chance of the investigation changing the results of the election, it’s no surprise that Clinton is reluctant to delve back into the controversy.

Even if she wasn’t hesitant in pursuing the aforementioned course of action, she still has every right to support a recount. She conceded in the election before it was even finished, bowing out gracefully to a man who now holds a position that he does not respect or understand. Trump is a man who was unwilling to accept the results unless he was the victor and who treated the United States’ democracy like one of his reality shows when he said in the third debate he was going to “keep [us] in suspense.” If he hadn’t won, there is a real possibility that he could have prevented a peaceful transfer of power, which shows the little respect that he has for the office that he holds.

What sticks out to me the most is that since Trump’s threat to not accept the election results was just one on a list of ridiculous comments that he has made in the past year, it was treated as such.

Meanwhile Clinton, who acknowledged her loss and never stooped to Trump’s level of absurdity, hesitantly chose to go along with someone else’s choice to recount votes in three states to make sure

that our voting system isn’t fraudulent. Doing so is apparently a flaw and a sign of hypocrisy in comparison to a man who was prepared to go against the laws that our country was founded on. Maybe it’s because she’s a woman or maybe it’s because Trump’s now in an elevated position of power, but whatever the case is, the fact that Clinton was continually vilified for making choices that wouldn’t cause a blip on the radar if she were a man is infuriating. She should be able to exercise her rights without attacks on her character, especially since the man about to assume office is, according to the New York Magazine and CNN respectively, accused of sexual assault and just settled a tax fraud suit for $25 million.

Clinton should be allowed to show interest in a recount without criticism and the latest judgment on her character, along with all the scrutiny that she was under during the entirety of the campaign, are clear signifiers of the double standard that she and women everywhere are held to. Even if she wasn’t a woman, making a controversy out her small part in the recent investigation into a fair voting process, after everything that Trump did and continues to do that disrespects democracy, is outrageous. Clinton, her decisions and our voting process deserve respect, all of which were never acknowledged in such a way by Trump. Stein should also be applauded for her efforts, as she is trying to make sure that our voting process was conducted in an honest manner.

The Vine

arts, entertainment, features Editor Colleen O'Connor vine@fairfieldmirror.com

Theatre Fairfield's 'Director's Cut' Captivates Students

Cara Lee/The Mirror Creative Commons/Flickr

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THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

The Vine

Directors Make the Cut in Latest Performance

By Cara Lee Contributing Writer “Director’s Cut,” Theatre Fairfield’s second performance of the year, opened on Dec. 1. Although opening night signified the end of a stressful week, it also allowed for hope and nerves to surface for the performances.

“My play [“Covers”] is about two pregnant teenagers in a halfway house,” said Michelle Rakowsky ‘17. If anyone other than the author of the play was able to say those words, it would be her, having spent the entirety of the past semester studying its every aspect and preparing for its production.

“The playwright takes these two vulnerable girls and writes a beautiful play that portrays them as the dynamic individuals that they are,” said Rakowsky. “Just like everyone, they have hopes, dreams, fears and want to be loved. I was attracted to how they weren't simply reduced to being pregnant teens, but as complex people.”

Rakowsky was one of six directors who participated in the past week’s “Director’s Cut.” The process for the directors began over the summer. Their first task was to read and ponder over Kent R. Brown’s compilation of short plays, “25 in 10.” In the four months since, the directors have studied the art and theories of directing through the close study of the processes of famous directors and through participating in numerous workshops.

“I was both nervous and excited when my show opened,” said Erin Strader ’18, director of “The Turnover,” after the Dec. 1 performance. “The interesting part about being a director is that once the show opens, everything is out of your hands and obviously you trust your actors and the stage crew, but sitting in the audience is a very different perspective.”

The individual plays were cast with a series of talented Fairfield undergraduate students who played their parts with magnificence. Each play was followed by a pause as the audience absorbed the full meaning behind each play — sometimes the meaning was clear and other times, it was carefully

hidden in what might seem to be a comedy skit. Nonetheless, the meanings were no less powerful in the latter case. Then came enthusiastic applause from every person in the audience. The amount of emotion that these plays were able to express in only 10 minutes each was a credit not just to the writer of each play, but also to the directors who read the scripts, took their own visions from it and made them into reality.

Several of the plays touched upon topics that were easy for the audience to relate to. One of these plays was “Undress Me Clarence,” directed by Kelly Sheridan ‘18. The play featured a woman, who at first seemed only to be trying to initiate sexual intimacy with her partner and was growing aggravated, but who was really trying to see if he cared for her beyond their sex life.

The greatest part of “Undress Me Clarence” was how relatable it was for everyone in the audience, whether they were happily married, in a relationship or single. The relatability stems from the search for a connection with someone who cares and is not just there for personal benefit. Even those who are married or in long-term committed relationships can possess a nagging doubt that maybe, like the woman in the play, having a real connection with someone is “just a fantasy.” The play reveals that others feel the same way and allows viewers to ponder over the show and consider their own opinion on the topic.

Another play, “The Nine Volt Time Machine,” directed

by Jessie Lizotte ‘18, had morals for the audience to take away with them. The play was mixed with multiple moments of hysteria — one of which occurred when a time traveling woman Ginger (Emily Ramsey ‘20) met herself from five minutes previously. The meeting resulted in confusion, a clash of personality and Ginger slapping herself. The strange, yet hysterical occurrence led to the meaning of the play being revealed. Carpe Diem: don’t try to live in the past. Seize the day and change your own future — do not rely on time travel to try to fix what cannot be undone.

“Hot Wax,” directed by Kaylee Moran ‘18, had a similar

message, but instead of seizing the day, it was about seizing the opportunity to trust someone. The play features a business woman and her elderly client, who ruthlessly questions the former on how she lives her life. After the questioning goes too far, the elderly woman halts her questioning and allows the younger woman to complete her day, but the woman takes the opportunity to share her story and that results in a new friendship between the two. Trust can be a tricky thing — difficult to give away and painful to take back —, but as Moran put in her description of the play, “When we are able to cultivate trust, we become open to the love and strength that person can provide us. The journey of life is full of struggles, triumphs, tears and laughter, but we are not meant to go through it alone.”

Senior Brendan McNamara directed the play “Little Sins” — a hysterical show featuring two people with drastically opposite personalities who are about to engage in an affair to escape their everyday lives when they get into an argument about how they have raised their children. McNamara summarized the experience for all of the directors when he described the semester as being, “a very rewarding and careeraffirming experience.”

Overall, this year’s “Director’s Cut” was a wonderful experience for both the directors and the audience members, who had the privilege of seeing the visions of the directors come to life.

“I've loved seeing a theatre production from this perspective and being able to experiment with my vision and style as an artist and theater-maker,” said McNamara. “It's been an exciting opportunity in taking the first steps of finding my voice as an artist.”

The class is highly recommended by all involved for anyone who is interested in working as or working closely with a director in the future. The shows performed in “Director’s Cut,” as well as the work of these directors, are highly recommended by the entirety of the audience.

Ryan Montbleau Weaves Folk with Storytelling

By Andrew DaRosa Executive Editor Possessing a repertoire of blending anything from New Orleans jazz to acoustic folk rock, Ryan Montbleau, a musician hailing from Peabody, Mass., is essentially the preeminent chameleon of the modern musical circuit. While his songwriting talents stretch to recount his nearly 15-year history on the road, one core element remains, which is a sense of longing to belong.

“I try to write and create what I can hear and what I am feeling and so however that comes out … they find their way in naturally,” said Montbleau, contemplating on blending various genres into his songwriting style.

After releasing 10 albums over a 14-year span, Montbleau has slowly become a master of his craft, earning immeasurable respect amongst his peers that has allowed him to be featured at numerous festivals throughout the country, including Gathering of the Vibes in Bridgeport, Conn. The respect stems from his unique perspective on songwriting and lyrical composition that range from the gleefully contemplative “75 and Sunny” to the adventure crafted in “My Best Guess,” which acts as an auditory road trip.

“For me, it comes little by little, all day long,” said Montbleau. “My antennas are always open to that.”

His success in the studio has translated well live. At one point early in Montbleau’s career, he would conduct over 200 concerts a year between his solo career and his band, the Ryan Montbleau Band. The live stage was able to breed a foundation that has comfortably become second nature for Montbleau, so much so that he will often base setlists on audience reactions in real time.

“Some of the solo shows, lots of times, I’ll just put a whole list of tunes in front of me and pick some,” said Montbleau. “I really like that because it gives me the freedom of feeling out the room and really being in the moment with the songs I pick.”

However, with RMB shows, the emphasis is on the deliverance — the ability to energize the audience while also allowing them to think on the music.

“Solo shows really require a listening environment … with a band, you can really beat people over the head, and keep with the beat, and the bodies, literally, with the music,” said Montbleau.

“What I’m trying to do live is to move you, but also get you to listen,” added Montbleau.

RMB is a live staple in the folk rock community, but briefly went on a hiatus in 2013 after a string of farewell shows. In 2015, Montbleau would reconvene the original group

at the Paradise Rock Club in Boston to commemorate the release of “Growing Light,” which was written and performed by RMB over various sessions in 2013.

While RMB continues to tour, the focus shifts to Montbleau’s solo career as he looks forward to a solo release in 2017, produced by jam musician and guitarist Anders Osborne. Recorded in Esplanade Studios under engineer Mark Howard, who previously produced records for Bob Dylan and U2, Montbleau uses the record as a sort of contemplative measure of years that seemingly highlighted the loneliness in his life.

“I think it's my most heartfelt record,” said Montbleau, who complimented Osborne for “keeping the rawness on there.” Fans can expect the newest release in early 2017.

“It’s been quite a ride, for sure,” added Montbleau.

The Ryan Montbleau Band will play The Warehouse in downtown Fairfield, Conn. on Dec. 30 at 8 p.m.

Contributed by New Frontier Touring

The Vine

THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

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Tales Behind Tattoos Inspired Buzzfeed Book Editor

Andrew DaRosa/The Mirror

By Alicia Phaneuf Assistant Vine Editor A bar, tattoo parlor and curiosity is what led BuzzFeed Book Editor, Isaac Fitzgerald to success. Fitzgerald worked at a bar located across from a tattoo parlor and would often find himself questioning coworkers and friends about the stories behind their tattoos. What began as a passion eventually led to his latest book, entitled “Knives and Ink: Chefs and the Stories Behind Their Tattoos.”

Carrying a positive energy while reading excerpts from his book, Fitzgerald’s passion was evident. Fitzgerald explained that his idea to tell stories behind people’s tattoos began when he conversed with a friend, Wendy MacNaughton. MacNaughton echoed the same enthusiasm as Fitzgerald and wanted to illustrate the tattoos to accompany the writing.

“This book could have been something just focused on the photographs of the tattoos,” said Fitzgerald, “but the involvement of Wendy's art, her drawings and her artwork that represents tattoo artists' work add a second layer that I'm really proud of.”

Fitzgerald mentioned that his and MacNaughton’s first book, “Pen and Ink” includes profiles of writers, prisoners, chefs and many others. He explained that it began as a selfpublished project on Tumblr and once the idea took off, Bloomsbury Publishing made a book deal with Fitzgerald. Tumblr is a small-scale blogging and social networking website that allows people to post multimedia and other work onto a blog. When the first book achieved success, they decided to narrow their focus to chefs.

“Often when you go out to eat, it's very easy to disassociate yourself from where your food is coming from,” said Fitzgerald. “I really hope these personal stories come across to us as consumers and that we think a little more about who is making our food and what kind of lives they've led.”

Sophomore Danielle Daya enjoyed listening to Fitzgerald talk about the stories behind these chefs’ tattoos. The concept of diving into the lives of the chefs proved to be interesting for her.

“It was just a generally refreshing spin on the idea of tattoos and their stories, especially with the artistic design aspect, which I thought was super cool,” said Daya.

Faculty member of Regis University’s MFA and the Fairfield County Writer’s Studio and creative writing professor at Fairfield University, Sophfronia Scott, elaborated on her decision to invite Fitzgerald to Fairfield; a major part of her reasoning was the originality and relatability he provided to students, according to Scott.

“I know that students tend to read a lot of dead authors and even though I'm a big fan of Charlotte Bronte and Jane Austen, we can't have them here with us,” said Scott. “I think it's important to meet writers who are working today in the industry.”

Including a variety of big name to everyday chefs allows the reader to build a connection to Fitzgerald’s 65 featured chefs.

Ranging from stories like Danny Bowien’s, who has a tattoo of angel wings on his forearm in honor of his mother’s memory, to Dawn Fitzpatrick, who has a small cupcake tattoo above his thumb on one hand and a slice of cake on the other, Fitzgerald combined both heartfelt stories with entertaining, lighthearted ones.

Junior Ashley Cambisaca also commented on the originality of Fitzgerald’s perspective. She elaborated on how detailed Fitzgerald’s work is, which makes for an intriguing read.

“Isaac has a beautiful way of explaining new and interesting topics, especially through the stories behind these tattoos,” said Cambisaca. “He really captures each voice in ‘Knives and Ink’ and stays true to each story of the chefs.”

In addition to discussing his new book, Fitzgerald also offered key advice to young and aspiring writers. Fitzgerald encouraged students to write, even if it’s just about their day.

He also noted that finding a community of friends who are interested in books and reading might lead one to discover new ways of connecting with literature. Fitzgerald explained that building these networks is important to the writing lifestyle. He added that beginning as a self-published writer on outlets such as Tumblr and Twitter are great places to start.

Fitzgerald explained that while working at the bar, he sometimes would have to stay until 5 a.m. doing stock inventory, but if it wasn’t for the job across the street from a tattoo parlor, he wouldn’t have had the opportunity to write his book.

“If you told me when I was a kid that I was going to get paid to read, I wouldn't have believed you. As far as where luck is concerned, I believe that it has to do with making your own luck. It's taking these small steps that maybe you don't realize at the time are leading to larger opportunities,” said Fitzgerald.

Other key reasons why Scott wanted to introduce Fitzgerald to Fairfield is because of the passion that he has for his work and the insight he offered to students.

“Isaac is someone who believes in the craft and the joy of reading and connecting with audiences, and I wanted my students to experience that energy,” said Scott.

“Knives and Ink: Chefs and the Stories Behind Their Tattoos” will be available for purchase at Fairfield’s downtown bookstore; if Fitzgerald’s work piques your interest be sure to keep an eye out for his forthcoming young adult novel and picture book.

Model/Walter Liska

Christmas Music Makes A Triumphant Return

By Colleen O'Connor Vine Editor I am That Person.

By That Person, I mean the person who starts listening to Christmas music on Nov. 1. You know, the person that everyone not-so-secretly hates for blasting Bing Crosby before the turkey’s even on the table.

I embrace my status as That Person. Christmas music is the most relaxing music out there, bar none. There’s nothing quite like humming along to a familiar melody in a time of stress or sitting in the library imagining winter break and crying over your finals while listening to Elvis Presley’s “Blue Christmas.”

Although there are so many Christmas songs to choose from, here are a few of my favorites to get you through the next two weeks and to the end of finals.

1. “Little Saint Nick” by The Beach Boys

The lighthearted tune never fails to lift my mood. There’s something about the whimsical lyrics and upbeat melody that makes it one of the more catchy Christmas songs.

2. “O Holy Night” by Bing Crosby

You can’t have Christmas without Bing Crosby. It’s like having a peanut butter and jelly sandwich without the bread.

You get the good stuff, but the sandwich isn’t complete. Nothing and nobody can match Crosby’s sustained note at the end of the song.

3. “Home for the Holidays” by Perry Como

As the lyrics and title of the song signify, there truly is “no place like home for the holidays.” The song captures what Christmas is all about for me — spending time with family and those we love.

4. “Auld Lang Syne” by Susan Boyle

“Auld Lang Syne” is definitely one of the most beautiful Christmas songs. Boyle’s melodious voice captures the essence of the song perfectly, hitting all of the notes without overdoing it.

5. “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” by Andy Williams

The holiday season is a remarkable time and the wellknown tune encapsulates the season’s spirit and cheer to a T.

6. “A Holly Jolly Christmas” by Burl Ives

Ives is a mastermind. As one of the creative geniuses behind “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (1964), Ives does more than narrate the story through his musical prowess.

7. “Mistletoe and Holly” by Frank Sinatra

One of the lesser-known Christmas classics, “Mistletoe and Holly” is a staple for my family and I. It’s not Christmas until the song plays while we decorate the tree.

Creative Commons/Wikimedia

8. “Christmas Time Is Here – Vocal” by Vince Guaraldi Trio Nothing says Christmas quite like the iconic image of Charlie Brown’s twig of a Christmas tree. As a big Peanuts fan, the tune gets two thumbs up.

9. “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby

“White Christmas” is a classic song, marking the true advent of the Christmas season, as well as the wish for snow that many hold dear to their hearts. There’s also a Christmas movie, one of my favorites, by the same name starring Crosby, himself.

10. “Here Comes Santa Claus” by Elvis Presley

There’s something about The King’s voice that makes his version of the song my favorite. His southern drawl pairs perfectly with the lyrics for a more carefree tone.

THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

The Vine

Page 10 Creative Commons/Pixabay

ashionably airfield

by Nicole Funaro

Finals Fashions The final week of classes is upon us and before we know it, we’ll be done with finals and ready to enjoy the holidays with our family and friends. However, once you’re home for the holidays, you will surely be getting plenty of invites to holiday and New Year’s parties alike, which will require a healthy wardrobe of party-ready looks. So if you’re already trying to plan out your soiree style, here are some helpful tips and trends to keep in mind.

Velvet: Old trends are almost always made new again and that certainly holds true for velvet. Soft-to-thetouch, velvet is considered a rich, luxurious fabric that can immediately elevate even the most basic of outfits. Girls and guys can both participate in the trend, opting for velvet heels or loafers, or even jackets and blazers. Try it in a deep burgundy and you’ll be all set to attend any holiday party that comes your way.

Metallics: Holiday lights don’t have to be the only things that glimmer. By incorporating metallics like silver and gold into your wardrobe this season, you too can shine — literally. Girls can try out the trend in a multitude of ways, starting with makeup, nail polish and jewelry, and working up to sparkly tops, dresses, skirts and jackets.

Guys can even get in on the action, looking for cool sneakers with metallic details or clothing with chrome-like hardware, such as zippers and grommets.

Casual can be comfy: While some holiday parties merit a more dressy attire, don’t be afraid to go casual when appropriate. Show off your love of Christmas by opting for an ugly Christmas sweater or keep it cozy with your go-to sweater and jeans. You can even punch up these looks with accessories; oversized plaid scarves in red and green, jewelry and cool jackets can all act as “completer pieces” to make your casual outfit seem just a little more put together.

As you dash off to one holiday party after the next be sure that no matter what you wear, it makes you feel happy and confident — and of course, festive.

Instagram/@urbanoutfitters One of the many velvet dresses available from Urban Outfitters

Happy holidays, Stags. See you in the new year.

Album Spoiler: 'Awaken, My Love!' by Childish Gambino

By Brendan Zimmerman Opinion Editor It is official. 2016 is the year of Donald Glover, who managed to resurface in the pop culture scene after a two-year hiatus with his critically acclaimed show, “Atlanta,” and a new album under his alter ego, Childish Gambino. “Awaken, My Love!” is the third studio album by Gambino and it trades his fast-paced, reference-laden rap style for a warm combination of soul driven falsetto and crunchy funk.

Over the years, Gambino has grown immensely as a performer, moving from his amateur hip hop mixtape days to a new self-assured swagger in his latest release. Hints of Gambino’s dramatic style change were felt on his 2014 extended play, “Kauai,” which saw the rapper beginning to flex his vocal chops over heavier levels of R&B style production. “Awaken, My Love!” sees that transformation come full circle.

The album opens with the single “Me and Your Mama,” which perfectly encapsulates the tone for the rest of the record.

It opens with a lullaby-esque aroma of voices that ease the listener into the track. A smooth synthesizer finds the melody and nestles it into the lullaby — all until the pace picks up and the thunderous crash of drums sewn with distorted bass breaks the spell. Possessing urgency, Gambino’s raspy vocals plead to a closed-off lover and the background singers accentuate his desperate desire. After the climax, the progression quickly becomes reminiscent of classic funk when it eases into a slow jam of receding drums and synth solos. After the powerful opener, the rest of “Awaken, My Love!” follows suit. The second single, “Redbone,” takes inspiration from groups like Parliament Funkadelic

with its structured rhythm and weary vocals. Over a syncopated slap-bass, Gambino utilizes his smooth falsetto and does his best Prince impression for the entirety of the track.

Other highlights on the album include further explorations into 70s funk with tracks like “Boogieman” and “Have Some Love,” where Gambino attempts to create an anthem demanding nothing but peace, love and understanding. Halfway through the record, there is a quick reprieve from the drama, as Gambino smartly places a comedic take on calypso music to insert some needed levity. Entitled “California,” the track sounds straight out of a travel brochure with a shot of tropical energy. Toward the end of the album, heavily layered production takes the spotlight, where tracks like “The Night Me and Your Mama Met” and “Stand Tall” are nearly all instrumental and ease the record to a close.

By the end of the album, it becomes apparent that Sly & the Family Stone’s legendary albums, “Stand!” and “There’s A Riot Goin’ On,” are the templates for Gambino’s new sound.

Both albums act as the perfect juxtaposition of musical motifs, where “Stand!” is a jubilant explosion of soul-infused hope and “There’s A Riot Goin’ On” is the inevitable downturn — or the end of the party — with its mournful funk. Gambino mixes the ideas of those albums together in his latest release and it creates a simmering slow-burn effect with occasional bursts of ecstasy.

After a two-year hiatus, Gambino has returned to the music scene with a completely new sound that promises even greater things to come. Funk, soul and swagger are the main tenants of “Awaken, My Love!” and they are blended together through seamless production. Fans are likely to appreciate Gambino’s musical reinvention and newcomers will surely want to dig into his previous work.

THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

The Vine

Karina Bautista/The Mirror

Page 11 Creative Commons/Flickr

Cooking with Colleen:

Peppermint Bark Popcorn

By Colleen O'Connor Vine Editor

Wine and Dine with The Vine: Pronto

By Karina Bautista Contributing Writer

When you have an empty stomach and a full ‘to-do’ list, finding the right place to eat is crucial. Looking for great food, great prices and a great place to eat is important for a college student as they are preparing for a long night in the library.

Pronto Chop Shop & Pizzeria, located on Brick Walk, 1241 Post Road, Fairfield, Conn., is a small, family-run business that works to provide a variety of delicious meals in a place where all are welcome. From soups, salads and wraps, to all kinds of delicious pizzas, Pronto is sure to cater to a college student’s needs.

Despite the hot-spot having limited seating, when you do grab a seat, the food is kindly brought to you by the owner. Upon entering the restaurant, the pleasant atmosphere and friendly employees allow you to feel comfortable and never rushed.

More so, since we are on a tight budget, a perk at Pronto is the 10 percent student discount with each meal if you respond “yes” when they ask if you are a student. Between the affordable prices and the opportunity to indulge in a thin crust pizza or choose a different route with a salad or wrap, what else could a college student want? After spending $8.99 on the Classic Cobb salad, a fan favorite, or $12.99 on a Shrimp Casino Pizza, a seafood lover’s dream, not only is your stomach happy, but so is your wallet.

Junior Virginia Galante believes that “the Shrimp Casino Pizza is the best pizza in town.”

The pizza consists of clams or grilled shrimp, marinara, bell peppers, onion, garlic, bacon, mozzarella and fresh basil. Galante continued, “Each ingredient works well together, making for a delicious personal pie.”

Some of the best items on the menu differ from customer to customer, but a favorite for many is the SouthWestern wrap. The wrap consists of romaine lettuce, grilled chicken, avocado, tomato, corn and black bean salsa, pepper jack cheese and chipotle ranch dressing. Can you say to die for?

The SouthWestern wrap or salad caters to every craving that a college student could possibly desire. The mix of avocado, corn and black bean salsa makes your mouth water. The lean grilled chicken mixed in with the chipotle ranch dressing adds to the hint of spice that we know we all want.

Senior Meghan Richer agreed, saying, “Not only is the food great, but the people are kind.

I go to Pronto for the food and the people … you don't find that often.”

After having several great experiences, Pronto Chop Shop & Pizzeria gets an easy five stars.

Feeling not only full, but fully satisfied will make all students go back for more.

Karina Bautista/The Mirror

There’s truly no time like the holidays. Between the cookies, the candy and the cheer, it’s impossible not to be happy all the time, especially once finals are in your rearview mirror. It’s a time for family and good food, desserts in particular.

The following recipe, from a recipe website entitled Cooking Classy, combines two of the best foods known to man — popcorn and peppermint bark.

Although still definitely a sugary dessert, the popcorn gives the dish at least a semblance of health benefits, as it has a lot of necessary fiber and antioxidants, according to the website Livestrong. The addition of the crushed candy canes turn this into the perfect dessert to bring to your next holiday party.

Peppermint Bark Popcorn Serves 3-5 1/2 cup unpopped popcorn kernels (10 cups popped) 12 oz vanilla candy melts or vanilla almond bark 5 peppermint candy canes, finely crushed Sprinkles (optional) 1/2 cup good quality chocolate chips 1/4 tsp peppermint extract 1. Pop kernels in a brown paper bag in the microwave and remove unpopped kernels.

2. Melt candy melts according to directions listed on package.

3. Pour melted candy melts over popcorn and toss to evenly coat.

4. Set aside 1 tablespoon of crushed candy canes and immediately add the remaining crushed candy canes to popcorn and toss to evenly coat.

5. Sprinkle with Christmas or red sprinkles if desired.

6. Spread onto a large piece of parchment or wax paper into a single layer.

7. In a microwave safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips until smooth.

8. Stir the peppermint extract into the melted chocolate.

9. Transfer the mixture to a piping bag and drizzle evenly over the popcorn.

10. Sprinkle remaining 1 tablespoon candy canes over chocolate and allow wchocolate to set at room temperature, then break popcorn into pieces.

Inkwell Spotlight 'The Sailing Wife'

By Marc Lee Editor-in-Chief at The Inkwell Some carve a stone, some leave a wreath, some light a candle, and some shed tears at the sight of a plaque for those beneath.

But, when I fall to reveries of the sound of her voice, or the curve of her face it is back and forth along the shore of a raging sea that I pace.

Deep below its tranquil blue lies the remains of the smile I knew, and, as I reflect upon the sand, I’m thankful at least that my regrets are few.

For the life that I lived with her by my side was joyous and full and even the sea’s current couldn’t break these memories as they did her small boat’s hull.

But her boat sailed away that day after I had bid her goodbye in the lover’s way.

She never knew that the sweetness of my kiss was tainted with the knowing smile of the one who took the piece her boat would miss.

So, as I walk my path along the beach, I think of all of my riches gained from her fortunes, each, while I wonder if, somewhere up above, she’s gazing down at me with innocent looks of love.

Creative Commons/Wikimedia

Coffee Break

THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

Page 12

Coffee Break Editor: Gabriella Minos

12 Things that Make Winter the Best Season When you wake up in the morning and look out your window to find that snow has enveloped the ground, there’s a rush of childlike excitement that fills you up and you just can’t help but smile. You are reminded of the days when school got cancelled and you got to roll over and sleep in your warm bed a little longer. The first sight of snow is one of those things that brings you joy and excitement no matter how old you are. You know exactly what comes next — these are the 12 best things about winter:

Snowball fights Getting all bundled up, running into the street because there are no cars out and pummeling your friends and siblings with beautifully crafted snowballs — or hunks of snow that miraculously stick together — is the best thing in the world. Not only is it so much fun, but it’s also the best way to throw things at people without getting in trouble.

Building a Snowman

Hot Chocolate

A tradition that everyone has to do at least once every winter season. Building a snowman family and decorating them with your parents’ scarves and hats — and secretly hoping that they will come to life — is so much fun.

After being outside in the freezing cold, you need something to thaw your fingers and nose. Hot chocolate is incredibly delicious, especially if it’s homemade, and is something that everyone can enjoy. The best part is putting mini marshmallows on top and watching them melt.

Igloo Building

Baking Cookies

Everyone should try at least once to build an igloo. All you need is plenty of (good) snow, a shovel and some friends. Dig until you all meet in the middle and then enjoy your wicked cool new hangout.

If you don’t like to bake, you like to watch others bake. Why? Because you know that if you are in the vicinity of baking, you will either get to lick the bowl after or you get to eat freshly baked treats. Both are ideal options.

Christmas Movies It is finally the time of year when it is acceptable to watch every classic Christmas movie that you love. There are numerous options, such as “Home Alone” (take your pick), “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “Nightmare Before Christmas,” “The Grinch” and countless others. Now is the time to break out all of your favorites and binge-watch to your heart’s content.

New Year’s Eve celebrations The start of a new year is always exciting; we feel a sense of relief that we get a clean slate. New Year’s Eve is also such a fun night filled with fireworks, the ball drop in New York City, celebrations, family and friends. It is also a night when we have no worries and a whole new year to look forward to.

Sledding Similar to a beach day over the summer, packing up your car with sleds and all of your friends, blasting the heat and driving to the best hill in your town is the reason why we wish for snow. Two things that you must do when sledding to achieve optimal fun are: have all of your friends pile onto one sled and make everyone at the top with a sled link arms to create a chain before sledding down.

Decoration for Christmas (and other holidays) Decorating is the best family bonding activity. Everyone has something to do and it is something that everyone genuinely enjoys. Putting up lights around the house, decorating the Christmas tree and hanging your stockings are all signs that Santa is on his way.

Winter Break

Onesies

This speaks for itself; a break from nearly all responsibilities — at least those school related — is always welcome. Most people who work get at least half of the week off for Christmas or New Year’s and those in school get close to a month of freedom.

Winter is the one time of the year when you get an excuse to be a child and wear a onesie without being mocked. Lounging around the house in a warm onesie watching movies or drinking hot chocolate and not getting yelled at for being lazy is the dream.

Christmas Music As much as we hate Christmas music any other time of the year, somehow it magically transforms into the best genre in the world during the holidays. All the talk of holiday cheer and chestnuts roasting puts a smile on our faces and when the classics like Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas” come on, we tap into our inner Grammy winner and belt out all the words.

Creative Commons/Google

Weekly Pick-Me-Ups

Fairfield students helping to make the best of Hump Day

Feature: Cormac Leddy Intramural Supervisor

Major: Finance

Contributed by Cormac Leddy

Fun fact: I am a huge New York Mets fan and never miss a game on TV. Where are you from: Queens, N.Y. Favorite sports team: New York Mets Coffee Order: Caramel iced coffee with cream Favorite quote: “It’s not how hard you fall, but how fast you get up.”

Favorite movie: The Dark Knight Pet peeves: Not saying thank you when I hold open the door for you.

What is your favorite role that you have on campus? Explain.

My favorite role that I have on campus is being a supervisor for intramural sports. I get to interact with other students while also watching sports, which is extremely fun.

Talk about how you became a supervisor for intramural sports?

I started off as a stat-keeper sophomore year and gradually made my way up. It’s been a pleasure to work for the intramural program and I’ve had a blast.

What is it like having a job on campus? What are the upsides? The downsides?

Having a job on campus is amazing. The travel is minimal and like I previously said, interacting with other students is great.

The downsides revolve around how a lot of students do not value the intramural program enough, as it is a great way to meet new people while also getting some exercise in.

What is the funniest memory that you have or story that you have heard at Fairfield?

My funniest memory would have to be my first class at Fairfield. It was at Dolan House, which I had assumed meant [Dolan School of Business]. After running around campus for like 15 minutes, I finally found the classroom. I pictured the class to be like 100 people, like what you see in the movies. So, I ran straight in — sweaty, red in the face and panting from that run — and realized the class was only five people, all of who stopped and stared at me like I had six heads. Of course, there were no seats open, so I had to make another spectacle of myself trying to find a chair from another room. I guess you could say at least I made an impression when I first got to Fairfield.

What is your favorite Christmas tradition?

My favorite Christmas tradition is putting up the Christmas tree with my family. We always make sure we are all together when we do it while playing Christmas music.

Senior Kelsey LaForest

Sophomore Patricia Masi

Gabriella Minos/The Mirror

Gabriella Minos/The Mirror

Which is the best University housing to live in?

I currently live in Mahan and it is fantastic. The floors are brand new and it’s always so quiet and relaxing.

THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

Sports

SPORTS

Sports Editor: Alfredo Torres » sports@fairfieldmirror.com

In Case You

Page 13

This Week in Sports: December Stag Standouts

Missed It:

Thursday, December 1st

-Men's Basketball defeats Rider, 76-67 -Siena defeats Women's Basketball, 6752 Friday, December 2nd -Michigan State defeats Volleyball, 3-0 Saturday, December 3rd -Siena defeats Men's Basketball, 80-73 Sunday, December 4th -Women's Basketball defeats Iona, 68-59 Tuesday, December 6th -Bucknell defeats Men's Basketball, 75-64

Ann Burgoyne '17 Senior Ann Burgoyne earned a spot as an Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference District I Field Hockey All-Star for the third straight year on Nov. 29. The two-year captain finished her Fairfield career as the red and white’s all-time leading scorer with 126 points in her four years at University Field. Burgoyne piled up 35 points during the season while leading the Stags to their second straight Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Championship game appearance. The forward racked up numerous other awards at the season’s end, including being named First Team All-MAAC and garnering a spot on the National Field Hockey Coaches Association Senior All-Star Team and All-Mideast Region Team. When next fall rolls around, the Stags will certainly miss their leader and one of the best players to ever put on a uniform for the field hockey program at Fairfield.

-UAlbany defeats Women's Basketball, 59-45

UpcomingThis Week:

Saturday, December 10th

-Women's Basketball at La Salle, 1 p.m.

Sunday, December 18th -Men's Basketball at North Carolina State, 2 p.m.

Wednesday, December 21st

On Dec. 5, Tyler Nelson ‘18 was named Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Player of the Week for the second time this season.

The shooting guard averaged 30.5 points per game in the Stags’ two games this past week. In the Dec. 1 victory over Rider, Nelson put up 38 points on 6-10 shooting from three and went a perfect 10 for 10 from the charity stripe in the 76-67 road triumph. Two days later, the sharpshooter tallied 23 points in Fairfield’s 80-73 loss to Siena. The Massachusetts native shot 8-19 from the field and 5-6 from the free throw line in the Stags’ first conference defeat of the year. Up to this point in the season, Nelson lead the team and the MAAC in scoring at 21.0 points per contest. Nelson looks to continue to fill the stat sheet when the Stags take on North Carolina State on Dec. 18 in Raleigh, N.C. Photos Contributed by Sports Information Desk

-Men's Basketball vs. Boston College, 6 p.m.

Thursday, December 22nd -Women's Basketball at Temple, 2 p.m.

Friday, December 30th -Men's Basketball at Penn, 4 p.m.

-Women's Basketball at Albany, 7 p.m.

In this week's issue...

- Dallas Cowboys Stand Atop NFL Rankings (Page 14)

- Stags Fell to Michigan State in NCAA Opener (Page 15) - Notable Stag Performances (Page 15)

- Stags Edged Defending MAAC Champions Iona 69-58 (Page 16)

Sports

Page 14

THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

Dallas Cowboys Stand Atop NFL Rankings

By Conor O'Brien Contributing Writer

this spring’s draft. Helping Elliott out is the fact that the Cowboys have the best offensive line in the NFL by far, loaded with studs such as Tyron Smith, Travis Frederick and Zack Martin.

Prescott’s success is a bit more surprising. A fourth round pick, scouts doubted Prescott due to the simple scheme he ran in college and some character concerns. However, Prescott has found success in the NFL by playing efficient, mistake-free football as he has only thrown two interceptions this season. Prescott has largely outplayed fellow rookie QBs Jared Goff of the Los Angeles Rams and Carson Wentz of the Philadelphia Eagles, who were taken with the top two picks in the draft.

Prescott played so well that Cowboys owner Jerry Jones announced that the former had earned the starting QB job even after Tony Romo returned from injury. On the other end of the spectrum, the biggest disappointment in the NFC is without a doubt the Carolina Panthers. After going 15-1 and making the Super Bowl last year, Carolina started the season 4-8, with their playoff hopes all but gone.

The biggest reason was the regression of their defense. After losing star cornerback Josh Norman this offseason, the defense fell apart rapidly. To make matters worse, they lost All-Pro LB Luke Kuechly to a concussion midseason and it only served to make their run defense as disappointing as their pass defense.

QB Cam Newton also deserves a share of the blame, as he regressed noticeably from the high level of play that made him the league MVP last season.

In the NFC, the New York Giants have also taken a huge step forward from last season. After going 6-10 last year, the Giants currently stand at 8-4, mainly thanks to the huge improvement that the defense has made from a year ago.

The Giants will host the Cowboys on Dec. 11, in a highly anticipated match-up. The Giants gave the Cowboys their only loss of the season, but that was back in week one when Prescott and Elliott were playing in their first NFL game. Sunday should give us a great look at two playoff teams rounding into form.

The NFL regular season is quickly wrapping up. Now with just four weeks left in the regular season, teams are looking to sharpen up and make the final playoff push. In the American Football Conference, there were relatively few changes from last year.

The New England Patriots have remained one of the conference’s top teams. Quarterback Tom Brady remains as versatile as ever, despite missing the first four games of the season due to suspension. Brady leads the league with a sparkling 18:1 touchdown-to-interception ratio. However, following the loss of All-Pro Tight End Rob Gronkowski to a back injury, the Patriots will need Brady to be at the top of his game if they hope to make the 2017 Super Bowl 51.

The biggest surprise in the AFC was the emergence of the Oakland Raiders. After going 7-9 last season, the Raiders made a huge leap. They are currently tied with the Patriots for the best record in the AFC at 10-2. While most of their success can be attributed to the signing of free agents such as offensive linebacker Kelechi Osemele or linebacker Bruce Irvin, the biggest reason is the growth of QB Derek Carr. In just his third season, Carr has grown from a second round pick from a small college to a legitimate MVP candidate. Armed with a lethal wide receiver duo in Amari Cooper and Michael Crabtree, Carr was able to light up defenses on a weekly basis.

Carr and his Raiders face a huge test on Dec. 8 as they go on the road to play their division rivals, the Kansas City Chiefs. Carr and the Raiders have lost their last four games against the Chiefs. In the National Football Conference, no team is generating more buzz than the Dallas Cowboys. Last year, the Cowboys suffered through a miserable 4-12 season, mainly due to injuries suffered by starting QB Tony Romo. This preseason, Romo suffered another major injury and many thought that it would be another lost season for Dallas. Instead, the Cowboys possess a league best 11-1 record thanks to the play of their two rookie studs, QB Dak Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott.

Elliott was highly touted coming out of college; the Cowboys selected him fourth overall in

Weekly 4x5 Because we have witty things to say ...

Information Compiled by Daniel Montgomery

Your 2016-2017 4x5 Columnists:

Jesse Erickson, Alfredo Torres, Daniel Montgomery and Ariana Puzzo

Draymond Green gets caught Russell Westbrook posted anagain for kicking someone. Think other triple double. Do you think it's intentional or not? that he can keep this going?

What do you think of the men's basketball team's 5-2 start?

Excited for Midnight Breakfast?

How's finals week going?

Well, you fall down once, get up

We all know how I feel about this (not that interested).

For those of you who did not get a ticket, I will be holding Midnight Breakfast at my house, The Banana Hammock.

It's going to be so litty, all invited.

Every week of my life is finals week and then I survive. Don't take it too seriously, though. Life sucks and then you die.

Jesse Erickson twice! He was just trying to prove Editor-in-Chief a point.

(Italian EIC)

Triple double is an oxymoron and so is jumbo shrimp.

Side note: Dan's mom bought him that Keurig! HI!

Alfredo Torres Sports Editor

Daniel Montgomery Assistant Sports Editor

Get him outta here! This guy wins one championship and doesn't know how to act. Wait till Kyrie comes to town and reminds him what happened in the Finals.

Respect to Brodie, but another one (DJ Khaled Voice). At this rate, who's gonna stop him? Huh? Russ for MVP, KD for Most Valuable Traitor.

I told everybody this was our year.

You guys better come out and show some love because these guys are putting on for Fairfield right now. Go Stags!

Last year, I got my bacon robbed, so as long as that doesn't happen, everything will be merry!

Chill, can't let it get to me right now. Just need some sleep and my bed to get by this week.

Intentional. This thing does not happen multiple times by accident.

He is on a NEW LEVEL. This dude is a must watch TV. I definitely think he is going to keep this play going.

Five wins is impressive with the injuries they have had so far. This squad has the juice.

Yasss! DJ Projo is going to put on a hell of a performance.

It is dangerous that I have a Keurig in my room at this time of year.

I know that it'll be intentional

I won't lie, I'm slightly offended that Alfredo decided to ask so many sports questions when he knows that I know nothing and that it's my last week doing 4x5 before I go abroad.

I admittedly don't know much about the sports at our school either, but I do know that when I somehow end up in the middle of Barone by their teams, I feel like I'm about two feet tall.

Absolutely! I woke up two hours earlier than I would have normally so that I could get a ticket and the website crashed half a dozen times.

Fairfield should count themselves lucky that I'm going.

*Glances up from Netflix* I haven't gotten there yet. Ask me after I've completed my 10-page history paper that my professor assigned for the final day of classes, on top of a final.

Ariana Puzzo when I kick open The Mirror door Managing Editor tonight after I finish my last issue until I return from London for senior year.

THE MIRROR | Week of December 7, 2016

Sports

Page 15

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror The Fairfield University Volleyball Team fell to the Michigan State Spartans on Dec. 2, 3-0. Following the loss, the Stags' season came to an end as they finished with a 28-6 record, 18-0 in MAAC.

Stags Fell to Michigan State in NCAA Opener

By Christopher Lazazzera Contributing Writer

All good things eventually come to an end and that’s what happened for Fairfield’s volleyball team’s 22-game win streak on Dec. 2. The Stags suffered a tough 3-0 loss in East Lansing, Mich. against the No. 15 ranked Michigan State Spartans in the National Collegiate Athletic Association Championship First Round.

Junior Megan Theiller led all players with 12 kills. Junior Skyler Day had five while Megan O’Sullivan ‘17 and Mayda Garcia ‘20 had two, respectively. Sophomore Kaitlyn Fisher and Manuela Nicolini ‘20 got on the board as well, with one kill apiece. Nicolini and Sydney Buckley ‘18 split the setting responsibilities, posting five and 12 assists.

Sophomores Mallory Bechtold and Taylor Rudeen may have lead the team with eight digs apiece, but the Spartans offense was too much to handle. A key aspect to Michigan State’s style of play was their height advantage. Eleven out of their 17 total players were 6-feet-2-inches or taller. One of the players, Rachel Minarick, certainly used her height to MSU’s advantage, recording an astounding 32 assists. The Stags showed a lot of heart and passion on the court

throughout the whole match. In all three matches, Fairfield kept it close in the beginning. They just could never get a run going in each of the three matches, losing 25-14, 25-13 and 25-15.

The season was definitely one to be proud of, though. The Stags captured their second consecutive Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Championship, their ninth in program history, and concluded the season with an impressive 28-6 record, going 18-0 in conference play.

Fairfield’s 28 victories were the third-most in program history behind a 35-2 season in 1998 and a 30-4 season in 1999. Their 22-game win streak was the nation’s longest win streak and the second longest in program history behind a 27-game win streak back in 1998.

O’Sullivan will surely be missed next year. The lone senior is graduating as a two-time First Team All-MAAC honor and MVP of the 2016 MAAC Championship. O’Sullivan was a core part of what the Stags accomplished on the defensive end.

As with every college sports team, seniors graduate and other student-athletes step in and fill their role. There is no doubt that the Fairfield Stags volleyball team will learn from their great season and will be ready to try and repeat as MAAC Champions next season with hopes of an NCAA tournament victory.

Notable Stag Performances: Casey Smith '17 on Dec. 4 vs. Iona:

21 Points 8-14 from the field Tyler Nelson '18 on Dec. 1 vs. Rider:

38 Points 6-10 on three-pointers 10-10 from the foul line

5-6 from the foul line 11 4th Quarter Points Photos by Alfredo Torres, Information Compiled by Daniel Montgomery

@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports Week of December 7, 2016

fairfieldmirror.com

SPORTS 16 Sports Editor: Alfredo Torres » sports@fairfieldmirror.com

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror Junior Macey Hollenshead started the game at the point guard position for the Stags on Dec. 4 against the Iona Gaels. Hollenshead recorded six points and five assists in 23 minutes of play.

Stags Edged Defending MAAC Champions Iona 69-58

By Daniel Montgomery Assistant Sports Editor There is nothing better in sports than a good old fashioned rivalry. Since the creation of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference in 1981, the Stags and the Iona Gaels have battled on the basketball court 84 times, with Fairfield picking up their 56th win in the series on the afternoon of Dec. 4. From the tip, the Stags were sharp as can be in their convincing 69-58 triumph over the reigning MAAC champions.

It was clear from the start that there was no love lost between these two conference powers. The Stags knew that they must squash the hype surrounding Iona and create buzz around themselves.

The hot shooting of Samantha Cooper ‘18 and dominant defense from seniors Casey Smith and Kristine Miller, Fairfield jumped out to a 15-8 lead to end the first quarter.

The second quarter brought much of the same for Stag fans as the red and white continued their inspired play throughout the second frame.

While Iona’s offense was sputtering, Fairfield was on a roll, led by the play of Smith and Kelsey Carey ‘17. However, what was once a 13-point lead with just under two minutes left to play was closed to an eight-point deficit at the end of

the period due in large part to some careless Stag turnovers and fouls.

Coming out of the halftime break down 25-17, the Gaels now had hope to make a comeback. While the Stags kept Iona at arms distance for much of the third quarter, their rival would not go away as the three balls started to fall and the bench stepped up.

By the time the clock struck zeroes at the end of 30 minutes, it was 45-39 and Iona had the momentum.

Only the team knows what was said in the huddle at the break, but Fairfield came out with a competitive spirit in the fourth quarter that Iona could not match.

Whenever the Gaels would hit a clutch three-pointer to pull them within striking distance, the duo of Smith and Carey would make a big play to keep them at bay. The fellow All-MAAC performers combined for 15-fourth quarter points to send the Stag faithful cheering on a 69-58 victory against the favored Gaels.

Smith ended the game with 21 points, while Carey threw up a monstrous double-double in 17 points and 12 rebounds.

Cooper also made her presence known for the Stags as the redshirt chipped in 13 points for the game.

After being bested by Iona in their two previous contests, head coach Joe Frager was more than happy for his team to

be on the winning end of the highly contested conference matchup.

“Iona is an outstanding team [that] is as well coached and as talented as anyone in the league,” said Frager. “This was a huge, huge win for us and I am very proud of the girls.”

Winning a game like this one shows that this year's version of the Stags has the mettle to hang with any team in the MAAC. For Smith, a complete win against an experienced Iona team gives the squad a much needed confidence boost.

“We have a lot of balance this year,” said Smith. “A lot of people can score, rebound and pass well, so it is great when everybody is playing their best on the court and contributing.”

Nonetheless, as we all know, everything this year begins and ends with Smith and Carey, and Sunday afternoon, they were both remarkable.

“Smitty and Kelsey made some big baskets for us today,” said Frager. “That lifts everybody’s spirits and sometimes when you knock a shot down on offense, it picks you up defensively on the other end.”

Everything came together on Sunday to give the Stags a victory that they will not soon forget. For Frager and the bunch, the win is hopefully just the start of a magical year.

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror Junior Samantha Cooper (left) finished the game with a total of 13 points and collecting six rebounds. Senior Kelsey Carey (right) recorded a double-double, recording 17 points to go along with 12 boards.