The State of the Union
61st Grammys
Landy’s Leadership
Opinion
Vine
Sports
61st Grammys’ showcase a variety of great performances.
Kendra Landy’s leadership extends off the court.
Page 8
Page 15
The President’s bipartisan claims at the SOTU are undermined by his politcal attacks. Page 5
THE MIRR R Independent student newspaper
Week of February 13, 2019
@FairfieldMirror
Follow us!
FairfieldMirror.com
Vol. 44 Iss. 15
Where Does Fairfield Stand with Mental Health? By Cara Lee Executive Editor Junior Lauren Paidas has struggled with anxiety since fifth grade and depression since her first year of high school, but nothing could prepare her for what she experienced the spring semester of her first-year at Fairfield University. “Freshman year, spring semester, I entered into one of my ‘dips’, which is a time when I experience consistent depression that goes for a long time, and I know I’m in pretty much the worst state I’ve ever been in,” said Paidas. “When this happens, it’s a struggle to get to class or even to go and get lunch with friends.” But this time was different for the then 18-year-old. School was becoming more of a hindrance than a help and being away from home, even after already making it through an entire semester, was making it worse. “It was probably the most difficult decision I ever made,” Paidas continued, “to decide if I should leave school or not to receive more intense therapy… My parents and I discussed that it was the best thing for me to leave school. The hardest things were leaving my friends and knowing I would not get credit for all of my five classes.” Paidas is hardly the first college student to struggle with mental health. Research reported by The Conversation shows that, as of 2018, 1 in 5 college students have anxiety or depression. Meanwhile the National Alliance on Mental Illness found that 1 in 5 adults are diagnosed with any mental illness and three quarters of diagnoses for chronic mental illness occur before the college graduation age of 24. However, these figures are even more
Creative Commons/ Flickr
pronounced on the Fairfield University campus. In the past month, the Center for Collegiate Mental Health 2017-18 and Association of University College Coun-
seling Center Director’s Survey reported that, while the national average of students using school Counseling & Psychological Services is around 10 percent, Fairfield
University Counseling and Psychological Services has now reported that 16.4 percent of Fairfield students use their services. The “Common presenting issues [at colleges throughout the United States] were depression, relationship problems and generalized anxiety,” NAMI reported. A Fairfield University Counseling Center survey revealed that these are also the top reasons for Fairfield student use of their own services. Senior Katrina Kirchgaesser is a psychology major who plans on helping children with her future psychology degree. She is also the vice president of the Fairfield chapter of NAMI and has had many opportunities to see the stigma against mental health struggles through these interests. “It is crazy how people are so forthcoming about physical ailments such as a twisted ankle or a bad cold but will go through extreme lengths to hide any sign of mental health struggles,” said Kirchgaesser. “Students have no issue telling their friends they are going to the Dolan Health Clinic [Student Health Center] to get a check-up but would never admit they are also visiting the mental health services for their weekly therapy appointment.” One student, who chose to remain unnamed, has also struggled with mental health throughout her life, but the stigmas surrounding mental health have prevented her from telling her friends. “My parents know, my sister does, but I keep the rest to myself,” said the sophomore. “I don’t want [my friends] to have pre-judgements about me, or them Read Anxiety on Page Two
It’s a No-Go from Rice FUSA President vetos Senate bill By Sabina Dirienzo Chief Copy Editor By Claire Monahan News Editor
Claire Monahan/ TheMirror
Nicholas Trewartha ‘20 enjoys the day off by sledding down the hill outside the library.
Snow Much for Classes By Alicia Phaneuf Editor-in-Chief
Stop & Shop was abuzz with Fairfield University students and town residents as they made a last minute trip early Tuesday morning to stock up on food before the season’s first significant snow storm. At 4:40 a.m. University students, faculty and staff received an email alert notifying them that all classes and other events were cancelled for Feb. 12. The first flurries of the day could be spotted around 9:00 a.m. and continued until 1:30 p.m., when freezing rain began to fall until for about an hour. After a coating of freezing rain, snow resumed until 4:00 p.m., when hail continued throughout the night. By 11 a.m. University plows were already working to ensure sidewalks and pathways were cleared and could be
accessed safely by students. Many students took advantage of the snowy day by baking cookies in their Res Halls, sledding down the hill outside of the DiMenna-Nyselius Library and having Netflix movie marathons with their roommates. Despite the mostly-cleared sidewalks, the University roads were not given as much attention. At 12:37 p.m. there was weather related motor vehicle accident resulting from snow behind Regis Hall where a car slid into two parked cars. Accidents in Fairfield began picking up before noon. At 11:07 a.m. there was an accident on Coolidge St. At 11:22 a.m. Fairfield Police Department responded to a truck accident that occured between exits 22 and 23 – the closest exits to Fairfield’s campus. It was later tweeted by Fairfield PD that there was one injury from the accident. Vehicle accidents continued to occur around Fairfield County throughout the afternoon and into the evening.
The bill passed by Fairfield University Student Association Senate by a vote of 11 ayes to 6 nays and 1 abstention, which would require a member of every executive board to attend each General Senate Meeting was vetoed by President Danielle Rice ‘19 on Wednesday, Feb. 6. In a letter to the FUSA Senators, Rice explained why she vetoed the bill. “Whereas I am in support of, and in agreement with, your desire for open communication between the Executive Board and Senate, I do not feel this bill is the most effective means of accomplishing this necessary communication,” Rice wrote. In the letter, Rice indicated her desire for a meeting between herself, Vice President Matthew Marshall ‘19, Speaker of the Senate Noelle Guerrera ‘21 and Secretary of the Senate Angelica Miceli-Kaya to come up with a solution to the issue. “I am planning to meet with her to find another way to promote more transparency and communication throughout FUSA, without the mandate,” said Guerrera of the meeting with Rice. “One idea is that Senate will now request a representative of a specific Exec Board to be present at a specified Senate Meeting to report any updates.” Senator Ali Haidar ‘21, the sponsor of the bill, was not as optimistic as Guerrera. “Rumor has it that the Executive Branch wants a non-bill compromise,” said Haidar, “which is something that many senators and I won’t settle for.” Read two-thirds on Page Three
News
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
Page 2
Anxiety Common on College Campuses Continued from Page One
to think a different way about me. I went through a lot of things when I was in middle and high school and I am a much better person today than I was then, and them knowing certain things about me back then, I don’t want that to negatively impact how they view me today.” This stigma is one that exists throughout the United States, with NAMI reporting that there is a correlation between the amount of students enrolling in colleges across the country and the use of college counseling centers. Susan Birge, EdD, MS, LPC, is the associate vice president for Health and Wellness and one of the most long-term advocates for improving student mental health at Fairfield University. She theorizes that this rise in Counseling Center utilization is due to a decrease in stigma. One which makes students feel more comfortable reaching out for help and leads to professors, teachers and coaches guiding students to Counseling when students show symptoms of mental struggles. “[Mental health] is actually being perceived, not only with less stigma, but actually greater help. Good mental health is realizing ‘If I need tutoring, I get a tutor. If I’m sick, I go to the health center. If I’m struggling with an emotion, I go to Counseling,’” said Birge.
“So, that’s good. Stigma is reduced. The other thing is that… with more information about mental health out there, students, parents, professors are more aware and will guide and refer people to get help…” Birge further expressed that this development is especially necessary and good to see due to the times we live in. She said that some are calling the current generation of college students the “massacre” generation. “You guys are aware and have lived through school shootings, massacres in theatres and malls,” said Birge. “By the very experience of the news coming in and you being so aware of it, you have to understand anxiety is heightened. How could it not be? Going to school used to be safe. And now that security is shattered, so we’re getting more awareness in that regard.” Senior Katelyn Jones, who has supported numerous family and friends who struggle with mental illness and has fought against anxiety herself, agrees. “I definitely believe that the recent tragedies affect how students our age feel,” said Jones. “I have not necessarily seen it affect the decisions that I make, but I definitely think that our generation as a whole is much more careful about who they talk to or how they act around people they don’t know, which could induce anxiety. I think the tragedies have made us more cautious about things in general.” Check back next week for continued coverage on mental health on campus
Alicia Phaneuf/ TheMirror
News
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
Page 3
The Future is Being Starved By Lily Crager Contributing Writer
Compiled by Claire Monahan Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.
Tuesday, 2/5 8:10 p.m. A student reported their vehicle was damaged while parked in the Jogues Hall parking lot. The matter is under investigation. Wednesday, 2/6 12:03 a.m. Narcotics were found in the hallway of 70 McCormick Rd. They were recovered and destroyed. 2:30 p.m. A Fairfield College Preparatory School student was observed trying to remove a wheel lock device. The student was referred to Prep student conduct. Friday, 2/8 11:46 p.m. An individual near the Thomas J. Walsh Athletic Center fled from DPS. The individual threw an item to the group as he ran, a baggie with marijuana inside was recovered and destroyed. Saturday, 2/9 10:08 p.m. Narcotics violation in Faber Hall. Students were identified and referred to student conduct. Monday, 2/11 1:36 p.m. Farfield FD was requested to respond to an oil leak from a vehicle at the new Charles F. Dolan School of Business construction site. The leak was caused by the broken hydraulic line of a tractor trailer and leaked significant oil. Tuesday, 2/12 12:37 p.m. A car slid into two parked cars in the Regis Hall parking lot as a result of the weather conditions. For full list of this week’s crimes check out fairfieldmirror.com
THE MIRROR Incorporated 1977
Alicia Phaneuf, Editor-in-Chief Cara Lee, Executive Editor Deanna Carbone, Managing Editor Editors Sabina Dirienzo, Chief Copy Sabrina Trueheart, Copy Claire Monahan, News Julia Monteleone, Assistant News Lexi Thimble, Opinion Gracianne Eldrenkamp, Vine Alle Scanlon, Assistant Vine Julia Crews, Coffee Break Patrick Getz, Co-Sports Daniel Montgomery, Co-Sports Christopher LaZazzera, Assistant Sports Business Department Email: info@fairfieldmirror.com Natalia Macchio, Director of Finance Advisor Professor Matt Tullis Contact Information Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, BCC 104 Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824 General email: info@fairfieldmirror.com
In a study done by Hunger on Campus, it was reported that 48 percent of college students say they have faced food insecurity since January 2019. This means that nearly half of students across the country have been without reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food in the past month. On Thursday, Feb. 6, a collection of student journalists across the country dialed in on a conference call to speak with leaders heading the food insecurity charge. “People struggle to afford higher education. Not just tuition, but the basics,” said Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), who is also a ranking Member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, “There needs to be basic living accessibility.” And such basic living accessibility, which many think would be a basic necessity, is hard to come by because hunger on college campuses has been normalized for so long. A week load of schoolwork fueled by a paltry cup of ramen is seen as normal. Hence the stereotype that all college students live off of ramen. It has been assumed, up until recent reports, that this was just the way of a college student’s life. But with the increased economics around education, affording ramen is getting harder and students have gone from eating ramen to eating nothing. On the conference call there was a common concern: how is it that the next generation of decision makers, the new crop of social-changers, the predecessors of the age of digitization, the people expected to make robots with an IQ of 1000, can’t even get a simple meal? The answer ties back to a problem legislation and students have been facing for decades — the skyrocketing cost of higher education. Going to college now is 163
percent more expensive than it was in 1988, according to an article by CNBC, across all categories — student loans, average college tuition, financial aid funding. These costs have reached their ceiling. The current trend of food insecurity proves the trickle-down repercussions of the enormous financial weight of higher education. Students must cover tuition, housing costs and textbook costs, and are left with nothing. Not even enough to cover dinner. And no dinner has its own set of repercussions. As the New York Times article writes: “It’s Hard to Study if You’re Hungry.” Students without access to proper resources, like nutritious food, have been reported to be unable to perform academically. This
partment of Agriculture to do more to enroll students in the SNAP Program [Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program],” Goldrick-Rab said. Her comment is coming off the heels of a report publicly released on Jan. 9, 2019 titled, “Food Insecurity: Better Information Could Help Eligible College Students Access Federal Food Assistance Benefits”. The article summarizes the issue and offers a possible resolution. Based on their findings of the 3.3 million students who were potentially eligible for SNAP in 2016, less than half said they participated. Goldrick-Rab and Murray both echoed similar messages on how universities can start to resolve the problem. Financial aid departments and benefit programs such as SNAP can help students understand legislation, read through paperwork and shift through terms and conditions. Even private institutions like Fairfield University and University of California-Berkeley have discovered their students are struggling to afford food. Fairfield has taken an active step in addressing this problem by surveying the student body to see -Senator Patty Murray how affected our campus is by food insecurity. The survey is ongoing, but Fairfield administrators hope to learn paints a very real picture for a large a lot from the results. portion of students attending univer“Our aim is to gather inforsities. Some give up everything to get mation regarding our student body’s to school, only to struggle to get by knowledge of food insecurity and to and still not complete graduation, not better understand their needs. After because of intellectual ability, but due reviewing the data collected from to the conditions they are faced with. the survey our committee of campus Higher education has advantages, but partners will work together to deterstudents cannot capitalize on it if they mine next steps in tackling next steps are unable to eat. This hunger is being any of the issues brought to light by the felt on a national scope. The confersurvey,” said Colleen Wilson, assistant ence call reviewed the national nature director of Office of Student Engageof the issue, and urged a call to action. ment who is in charge of the survey, Sara Goldrick-Rab, Ph.D., professor of “The committee is comprised of higher education policy & sociology at members from Dining Services, Dean Temple University, spoke of the steps of Students Office, Campus Ministry, necessary for change. Office of Residence Life, and Office of “There is a need for the U.S. DeStudent Engagement.”
“
People struggle to afford higher education. Not just tution but the basics.
Two-thirds Needed to Override Veto Continued from Page One
One senator who spoke against the bill, Charles Cooper ‘19, indicated that he opposed the specific wording of the bill, because he thought that having a member of every executive board present at GSMs would take up too much time at the GSMs and expressed support for Rice’s veto. “I am not sure why this bill was so controversial,” added Haidar. “When I wrote this bill, I tried to make it as lenient as possible without putting too much pressure on the Executive Branch.” Jennie Toutoulis ‘20, Director of Marketing & Public Relations for FUSA, provided an executive branch statement to The Mirror regarding the proposed meeting between Guerrera, Miceli-Kaya, Rice and Marshall. “I am confident that after this meeting, we will not only have an update, but a positive solution that will benefit all of FUSA,” said Toutoulis. Students have picked up on this controversy as well. Six students commented on the @FUSA47 Instagram post
of Rice signing the other resolutions passed at the Jan. 31 GSM, asking what happened to Bill 55-002. One user posted, “where is the post explaining vetoing a bill that passed 11-6? #transparency.” Haidar also mentioned pressure on FUSA senate to drop the issue. “The Senate has been called ‘petty’ by individuals who will not be named here but have significant influence over FUSA affairs,” said Haidar. “I mean no quarrel towards any individual of the Executive Branch, and I do not mean to fight with the president or vice president. All I ask for is what the Senate and our constituents ask for: transparency.” The Senate could still override the veto with a two thirds majority vote at the next GSM on Feb. 13 at 6:30 p.m. in the Lower Level of the John A. Barone Campus Center. Guerrera mentioned, “From what I have heard from some other senators, is that they are close to having the vote numbers for an override.” Editor’s Note: Haidar has previously written for The Mirror’s Opinion section.
The Mirror Reflects on this Week in Social Media
News
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
Page 4
School of Engineering Celebrates 25 Years By Sabrina Trueheart Copy Editor This year, the Fairfield University School of Engineering turns 25 years old and celebrates the acquisition of the Bridgeport Engineering Institute, where graduate students used to participate in programs that supported the needs of the Connecticut industrial community. The institution is no longer in use today; however, since this acquisition, the total number of faculty and students in the School of Engineering has increased, as well as recognition of the school as a whole. Currently, the school has four undergraduate programs: mechanical engineering, bioengineering, electrical engineering and computer science. The school also has five graduate programs to offer in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, software engineering, computer science and applied data science. There are approximately 300 undergraduate students and approximately 100 graduate students currently in attendance. “The fact that Fairfield SOE is willing to introduce new, relevant programs, like bioengineering, is awesome, but it would be nice to see those programs receive support,” said Katherine Unfried ‘19. “Will we be an ABET [Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc.] accredited program before graduation? Only time will tell.” Unfried added, “I would appreciate a full-time professor for bioengineering, and it would be great if they would run all the classes we need to graduate during our last semester.” Claire Monahan/ TheMirror Richard Heist, Ph.D., took on the role of interim dean of the School of Engineering in the beginning of the 2018-19 school year. Engineering School is housed with other sciences. So far, he is extremely impressed with the faculty and students in
the school and has high hopes for what is to come. “We have a very dedicated faculty who are excellent teachers along with a growing cadre of applied research-interested faculty,” says Heist. “91 percent of our students take advantage of internship opportunities and all of our graduates get hired or go on to advanced graduate study.” As the STEM fields become more in demand, Heist reflects on how Fairfield students will have an advantage. “The further maturing of the School of Engineering in its second quarter century, along with all of these high-growth applied research areas, will foster a strengthening of STEM awareness on our campus,” Heist remarks. Heist also gave insight on how the University’s engineering programs rank against other universities in the nation. He states Fairfield has, “dedicated faculty, excellent teachers, a growing cadre of applied research-interested faculty, applied research in cutting edge areas, and the opportunities our students have to work with faculty on their applied research investigations, as well as many internship opportunities and industry collaborations.” First-year Sachin Verma believes the School of Engineering is already preparing him well for a future career in engineering. “I have already started taking specialized classes that include a great deal of hands-on and theoretical work,” Verma commented. “I also feel like I am being prepared, and will be more-so in the future, for internships and opportunities that transcend the classroom.” When asked where she would like to see the School of Engineering in the next 25 years, mechanical engineering major Kaitlyn Nelson ‘19 replied,“In the next 25 years the engineering school would really benefit from having its own building.”
Largest Pool of Applicants for Class of 2023 By Sabrina Trueheart Copy Editor More students from around the globe are choosing to apply to Stagcountry. This year, Fairfield University received the largest number of applicants for the class of 2023. There were 12,200 applications received; the amount of applications received for the class of 2023 has increased eight percent from the class of 2022’s amount, which was approximately 11,400. Of these applications, about 42 percent were for the College of Arts and Sciences, 30 percent for the Charles F. Dolan School of Business, 19 percent for the Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies and 9 percent for the School of Engineering. The University’s acceptance rate is expected to slightly decline this year due to the high volume of applications.
In past years, the majority of the University’s applicants have come from the tri-state area – Connecticut, New Jersey and New York. Applications for the class of 2023 have come from 43 states across the country. In addition to this, the Office of Undergraduate Admissions has seen applications from 68 countries. The University expects to see more geographic diversity represented on campus as a result. Alison Hildenbrand, director of undergraduate admissions, went into detail regarding what the large number of applicants from various different places means for the University. “The demographics of the United States have been shifting for the past few years, and the number of high school aged students in the Northeast is declining. Because of these demographic shifts, we’ve been working for years to expand Fairfield’s presence and reach,” Hildenbrand explained. “We have seen some growth in the
number of applicants from international students, and we are excited about the opportunity to shape our community in a way that better reflects the population of the world.” Students are also excited about the increase in applicants, but would like admissions to keep in mind the charm of a small school. “A larger applicant pool implies that Fairfield’s reputation as a prestigious school is growing,” says Park Lytle ’21. “But, it also means Fairfield will need to start expanding its budget in order to keep low class sizes and more intimate student interactions, which is one of the key factors that makes this school desirable.” Some students believe smaller class sizes allow them to learn better and retain more information. “The reason I chose Fairfield was because I liked the small size of the school,” Michael Pepe ‘22 recalled. “The best way to learn is through conversation. If it’s a big lecture it won’t work for me, I remember through conversation.”
Opinion
Page 5
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2018
Opinion o
Editor Lexi Thimble » alexandra.thimble@student.fairfield.edu
Trump's State of the Union Masks His Divisive Nature plagued with factual inconsistencies and attacks against his opposition — especially the rising and growing populist left — all of which illustrate the President’s averse behavior toward When President Donald J. Trump gave his second those who do not agree with him. State of the Union on Jan. 30, it was two weeks after his It is important and imperative that the President is factadministration caved and ended the longest government checked and corrected, but even more so that the fact-checked shutdown in U.S. history. The President’s speech did not information is circulated around. For example, the President mention this, but rather attempted to obfuscate the shut- claimed that there are, “new calls to adopt socialism in our down by presenting the President himself as a bridge of bi- country,” which alluded to Senator Bernie Sanders and Alexpartisanship. However, Trump’s SOTU was andria Ocasio-Cortez, the Democrats’ new star. However, the state owns all definition of socialism is when, “the no Democrat the means of production,” and has called for the government to take over all business. Trump continued his misleading tirade when he stated that the Venezuelan regime of Nicolás Maduro used, “socialist policies [which] have turned that nation from being the wealthiest… into a state of poverty,” which is debatable as many analysts have stated that the rampant corruption, lack of law and absence of democracy have been bigger factors. However, the most egotistical and unsubstantiated part of the SOTU was Pictured: President Donald Trump when the President stated Creative Commons/Pixabay and cpadonovan.com that, had he not been elect-
By Ali Haidar Contributing Writer
ed president, the U.S. would be in a major war with North Korea. This could not be farther than the truth; while President Barack Obama continued his economic sanctions against the pariah state, and while Pyongyang continued to conduct nuclear tests, there was no significant chance of war. In fact, when President Trump wrote that North Korea’s actions would be met with “fire and fury,” this statement could have increased the chances. Another point that should be clarified is when the President spoke about wage growth. He stated that, “wages are rising at the fastest pace in decades,” and although wages are growing, the data suggests that wage growth actually rose faster under former presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush. I will give credit to the President where credit is due — even if that credit is far and few between. When Trump stated that, “Great nations do not fight endless wars,” everyone, in that chamber and at home, should have been cheering. Trump continued to break the war-hawkish climate that has plagued D.C. for decades when he boasted that his administration is negotiating with the Taliban. Although these comments are to be welcomed, especially after years of entrenched conflict in foreign lands, one should take Trump’s rhetoric with a grain of salt. The President in one breath speaks about ending conflicts, while in another he boasts about ripping up a diplomatic deal that prevented nuclear proliferation. One aspect of the speech that I will greatly applaud is when the President spoke out against anti-semitism and the recent attacks against America’s Jewish communities. Antisemitism has been on the rise in the United States, but so are other phobias in our country including xenophobia against the Hispanic community, Islamophobia towards the Muslim community, etc. While the President bragged about his administration's bipartisan accomplishments, referring to the successful passage of the recent criminal justice reform bill, new farm bill and the Veterans Affairs accountability bill, the president has made it clear that he thrives on division, even as he calls for consensus. His attacks against the the Democratic party, the Mueller investigation and minorities all confirm that the President is unwilling to move on.
Instead of Glorifying Ted Bundy, Remember His Victims By Kallan Hook Contributing Writer Ted Bundy, the most diabolical killer ever known, has reemerged in headlines since the release of "Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes" on Netflix and the newly announced major motion picture adaptation starring Zac Efron. During the 1970s, Bundy stalked and preyed on females by luring them into his beige Volkswagen Bug, driving off into desolate areas, violently raping and suffocating many of them, then burying their lifeless bodies in the remote forest. While Bundy admitted to murdering over 30 women, investigators suggest that his victims exceed that of 50. For an individual as wicked and vile as Bundy was, many individuals, to this day, characterize him as “charming” and “handsome.” The recent release of the trailer for Efron’s film "Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil, and Vile" has many individuals fantasizing about Efron as Bundy, from his charismatic persona to his charming looks, fans are quickly becoming obsessed. Such a film attempts to allow viewers to understand the intimate relationship between Bundy and real-life partner, Elizabeth Kleopfer, by showing audience members how Bundy effortlessly enticed females with his alluring demeanor and attractive appearance. However, rather than emphasizing the horrifying actions of Bundy, the trailer looks as it it were a 1970s rom-com. This trailer engages the viewers’ desire to see Bundy as an attractive family man rather than as the true monster he has confessed to be. Such a focus on how “attractive” Bundy was distracts many from the fact that he was a cruel villain. After leaving his victims’ lifeless corpses to rot in the remote woods, Bundy would revisit his crimes by travelling back to these areas. At times he would bury another victim, and others he would relish in what he believed to be his glory. When he decided to not bury the bodies, he would bring the women’s corpses home and rape their lifeless bodies. This is the monster who defended himself in court, who took the lives of dozens of women. Yet, this is also the monster many individuals have been and are still charmed by due to his “handsome” looks. The constant focus on Bundy’s looks, rather than his murderous actions, further invalidates the lives of his victims. While investigators and viewers continue to obsess over Bundy’s “boy-next-door” appearance, the families of the victims
Editorial Board "Vaccinate Your Freakin' Kids!" Alicia Phaneuf Editor-in-Chief Cara Lee Executive Editor Deanna Carbone Managing Editor
On Friday, Feb. 8, lawmakers in Washington heard testimony regarding a proposed bill that would eliminate parents’ ability to opt-out of vaccinating their children for measles, mumps and rubella. This report comes out of the recent widespread of measles and flu outbreaks occurring across the nation, with the Center for Disease Control reporting that there have been at least, “16 influenza-associated pediatric deaths” so far this season. According to KidsHealth.org, “The reality is that vaccinations play a vital role in keeping kids healthy. Unfortunately, misinformation about vaccines could make some parents decide not to immunize their children, putting them and others at a greater risk for illness — or even death.” The website continues to address common concerns people have when it comes to vaccinations including: a weaker immune system, bad reactions to the vaccine and the idea that vaccines cause Autism Spectrum Dis-
suffer from inexplicable devastation. Eleanor Rose, mother of victim Denise Naslund, now suffers from severe agoraphobia to the extent of where she cannot leave her house. Rhonda Stapley, survivor of Bundy, details her encounter with the serial killer and how his violent actions continue to haunt her decades later. It is disturbing to witness how the questionable “attractiveness” of Bundy continues to distract individuals from his demonic crimes and obscure them from remembering the names of his victims. Despite his execution on Jan. 24, 1989, Bundy continues to haunt his victims, and his ashes were spread across the infamous dumping site for many of the bodies. The media’s constant attention to appearance and charm take away from the significance of each victim’s life. Therefore, it is with a heavy heart that I write to the deceased victims: may you rest in peace and, to the families and survivors, may you find Pictured: serial killer Ted Bundy peace. Creative Commons/Wikimedia Commons and Flickr
order. However, numerous studies have shown that in no way does getting a vaccine mean that one will have a weaker immune system or developmental disabilities. “Numerous studies have found no link between vaccines and autism,” states the KidsHealth website. “Likewise, a groundbreaking 2004 report from the Institute of Medicine (IOM) found that thimerosal (an organic mercury compound that's been used as a preservative in vaccines since the 1930s) does not cause autism.” However, The Mirror would like to point out that even IF vaccines did cause autism – which they don’t – having an autistic child is significantly better than having a dead child. And, if you aren’t prepared to have a child with autism, or any other developmental disability, then maybe you shouldn’t be thinking of having children in the first place. The Los Angeles Times published an article on Feb. 10 entitled, “Measles is deadly. Vaccines are not. We need
our laws to reflect this reality.” Vaccines will not in any way cause harm to one’s body; thus, there is no reason for anyone to be anti-vaccine. When one chooses not to be vaccinated, not only do they put their own lives at risk by exposing themselves to deadly diseases, but they also put the lives at risk of the people around them. In the words of a meme that went viral “You’re telling me I can’t bring peanut butter to school, but you can bring measles?” If parents are concerned about their children having an allergic reaction, then they should be equally concerned about their children contracting a deadly disease such as the measles or the flu – both of which saw record high cases throughout the past two years. Vaccines save lives, they prevent the spread of disease, and they don’t cause mental disabilities. For the good of society, please get yourself vaccinated, get your child vaccinated and educate yourself on what vaccines really do.
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2018
Opinion
Page 6
Howard Shultz is the Last Thing America Needs: Trump 2.0 By Timothy Dillon Contributing Writer Former Starbucks CEO and current billionaire Howard Schultz has been making noise about possibly running for president in 2020 as a “centrist independent.” Having labeled himself thusly, it’s hardly surprising that Schultz’s case for himself has consisted of the simplistic and delusional rhetoric of decrying “both sides” as equally radical and dangerous while championing himself as the only one wise and sane enough to solve the country’s problems. So, what solutions has he put forward? Schultz’s statements on policy have largely consisted of attacking Democratic positions, calling medicare for all “unAmerican” and proposals to increase taxes on the wealthy “ridiculous.” So far, the only major policy Schultz has put forward is slashing funding for programs like Social Security and Medicare, which he derisively refers to as “entitlements.” Schultz’s apparent belief that he will swoop in and save the country on the backs of a silent majority of centrists seems to overlook the inconvenient fact that no such constituency seems to exist. But to dwell on Schultz’s unpopularity would be to ignore a perfectly good opportunity to talk about the fact that he’s very, very, wrong about a lot of things. So perhaps it’s worth considering just what issue it is that Mr. Schultz thinks the nation needs him to solve, what urgent crisis a Schultz presidency would devote itself to solving. According to him, the “greatest threat” facing the nation is the deficit. That’s right, the deficit. Not systemic discrimination, not income inequality, not climate change, but the deficit. Even worse is Schultz’s plan to deal with this alleged crisis: cutting Social Security and Medicare, programs which are critical for keeping Americans out of poverty and combating the
widening wealth gap in this country. Real people rely on these programs and others like them to survive and support their families; a balanced budget doesn’t put food on the table or pay hospital bills. Howard Schultz may not need medicare or social security, but a lot of people do, and cutting these programs would have a devastating effect on the lives of millions; that’s not fiscally responsible, it’s morally reprehensible. But despite his apparent lack of concern for struggling Americans, Schultz has found one group he’s going to stand up for: the poor defenseless billionaires. Several Democrats have proposed raising taxes on the wealthiest Americans, proposals which have proved quite popular to Americans of all political leanings. For example, one of the most popular plans, a 2 percent wealth tax on fortunes above $50 million proposed by Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren, is supported by 61 percent of Americans, including 74 percent of Democrats and 50 percent of Republicans. Such a proposal would Infographic by Lexi help rein in the wealth gap and Thimble generate a significant amount of Information compiled revenue for the American peofrom The Pew ple. Despite the overwhelming Research Center support from Americans, Schultz has dismissed plans to raise taxes on the rich as “ridiculous.” In light of these positions, it certainly looks like Schultz is just running to defend himself and his fellow billionaires with no regard for anyone else. Schultz’s chances of winning are negligible, but if he does run as an independent he will still have a dramatic effect on the general election. Even putting aside the effect that third party candidates had in the past election, Howard Schultz has enough money to take out ads attacking progressive positions and candidates and depress turnout. The 2020 election is going to be an important turning point for the nation, and the last thing anyone needs is President Donald Trump getting reelected because another billionaire with no political experience thought that he and only he could save the country.
'The Breakfast Club' is Best Left As an '80s Icon By Catherine Santangelo Contributing Writer
material in films, but Ringwald has a point that sexual harassment is a huge issue today, so including this material in films now would likely be less accepted by viewers. Due to the growth of the #MeToo movement over recent years, it is truly a sensitive topic for victims, and even non-victims, of sexual harassment. It would not be right for the film industry to create m o r e movies
Molly Ringwald is an actress who is best known for having starred in multiple John Hughes films, including “Sixteen Candles,” “Pretty in Pink” and, of course, “The Breakfast Club.” Ringwald sat down with Couch Surfing by People TV recently, and the topic of a reboot of “The Breakfast Club” was mentioned. The actress immediately shut this idea down and added, as reported by Entertainment Weekly, “that that era of romcoms were ‘of a certain time’ and there are ‘things that are not appropriate [now] that were barely appropriate then.’” From seeing “The Breakfast Club” myself, I can agree with her that doing a remake is not necessary. It is simply a classic movie that should remain a classic movie. It does not need to be remade because it was so well done originally, and people still enjoy it today. Ringwald looks at the issue of making a remake of the film from a different perspective. In the age of the #MeToo movement where women are speaking out about their experiences with sexual violence and harassment, Ringwald believes that the material included in “The Breakfast Club” would not be appropriate for this time in our society. I agree with Ringwald that with the intensity of the talk around sexual harassment in this day and age, it would not be best to recreate this movie, as it actually includes quite a bit of sexual harassment among the characters. The last thing we should be doing as a society is adding to this issue. Back in April 2018, Ringwald wrote an essay published in The New Yorker, where she reflects on her experiences acting in Hughes’ films. She says in her essay, “lately I have felt the need to examine the role that these movies have played in our cultural life: where they came from, and what they might mean now,” mainly referring to the sexual material that is included in them. Ringwald even admits in her essay, “Back then, I was only vaguely aware of how inappropriate much of John’s writing was, given my limited experience and what was considered normal at the time.” It is interesting that back then it was completely acceptable to create films that contained such inappropriate material, especially for Hughes’ films which focused on young teenagers. In the time of those movies, it may have been more acceptable to include such Pictured: The cast of 'The Breakfast Club"
that include such sensitive material that impacts so many people. Ringwald makes an important point similar to this near the beginning of her essay where she says, “If attitudes toward female subjugation are systemic, and I believe that they are, it stands to reason that the art we consume and sanction plays some part in reinforcing those same attitudes.” By creating more movies that include this type of material, we as a society are only adding to an issue which is already a huge problem. Ringwald is simply responding to the climate of our society today on the issue of sexual violence and harassment when she rejects the idea of rebooting “The Breakfast Club.” She is correct to say, as she did on her Couch Surfing segment, that “the world is a different place.” What was only lightly accepted in films in the time of those John Hughes movies is not accepted as well in our current time. In “The Breakfast Club,” the sexual material was mainly included to showcase part of the lives of teenagers in that time, as Ringwald points out in her essay that, “it can be hard to remember how scarce art for and about teen-agers was before John Hughes arrived.” Hughes created change in the film industry by developing teen movies that actually represented the true lives of teenagers. It just so happened that he included some inappropriate sexual material in those portrayals. Though it is great that he established movies that could really resonate with teenagers at the time, sadly that is not as accepted in today’s climate with the #MeToo movement growing, and everyone needing to be extra cautious about sexual harassment and violence. As I mentioned earlier, “The Breakfast Club” doesn’t even need a remake because it is already iconic as it is. Rebooting it would take away from its meaning because it was created for a certain time period that does not necessarily apply to today. People can still enjoy the film and take from it what they will, but a reboot is definitely not necessary. In regards to Ringwald’s views, she is right that the world and society are different now, and with the seriousness of sexual harassment as a major focus of concern, it would not be right to present more films with this type of material to the public anymore.
The Vine
arts, entertainment, features Editor Gracianne Eldrenkamp gracianne.eldrenkamp@student.fairfield.edu
Alicia Keys Hosts an Engaging 61st Grammys
Photos taken from cbstv Instagram CreativeCommons/MaxPixel
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
The Vine
Page 8
Positivity and Unity Create a Memorable Grammys By Andrew Murphy Contributing Writer
Alicia Keys hosted the 61st Grammy Awards this past Sunday, Feb. 11, and it was quite a show. Per usual, awards were handed out, songs were performed and speeches were delivered. However, this ceremony stood out in particular because of the amazing energy which permeated through the star-studded performances as well as extremely emotional speeches. The greatness of this show centered around the evening’s hostess, Alicia Keys. Keys made this night spectacular by doing everything from playing two pianos at once to masterfully displaying her incredible vocal abilities. Besides displaying her incredible piano and vocal talents, Keys was nothing short of spectacular. Her constant positive energy permeated throughout the building. She opened the night by speaking about the importance of music as a unifier. She then summoned her superstar friends Jennifer Lopez, Lady Gaga, Jada Pinkett Smith and Michelle Obama to continue spreading these positive vibes. Amongst their other positive messages, these women focused primarily on female empowerment, for this issue has emerged as extremely troubling at past Grammy’s. Thankfully, on this night, women from all generations dominated the stage. Multiple artists on this evening had the luxury of both winning an award and being able to perform. Singer-songwriter Brandi Carlisle’s incredible performance of her hit song “The Joke” merely served as the perfect ending to a day where she had already won three Grammy’s. Country duo Dan + Shay completed the triple crown of presenting an award, receiving one of their own and performing live on stage. Cardi B followed up her head-turning performance by winning Best Rap Album. Shortly after dramatically walking on stage with her megastar friends, Lady Gaga emotionally received her award for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance. Gaga struggled to maintain her composure, explaining that her contributions to Photo taken from cbstv Instagram this project affected her deeply because of Alicia Keys hosting the Grammys
The Art Corner Sh-Boomies At Night By Brandon Robles '22
I don’t really have any inspiration for this piece. I was just doing some improv after sketching a face. Soon, it became a gas station in the middle of the night. But I came to like it upon completion. Though I wish I had more patience with sketching night skies.
CreativeCommons/GoogleImages
its focus on mental health. By the time she performed this song, Gaga had gone into complete rock mode, delivering her expected aggressive and passionate performance. The array of performers, recipients and speakers on stage covered from all genres and backgrounds. This interesting variety of performances included Cardi B’s peacock feathers, Janelle Monae’s dancing robots and Travis Scott’s cage. Dua Lipa and St. Vincent united for a performance, yet their collaboration was not as unexpected as the duo of Post Malone and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Camila Cabello kicked off the show with quite a performance. Her colorful ensemble of impressive dancing and singing included superstars Young Thug and J. Balvin as well as legends Arturo Sandoval and Ricky Martin. Miley Cyrus performed multiple times, as did Album of the Year winner Kacey Musgraves. Donald Glover aka Childish Gambino and his crew won both Song of the Year and Record of the Year for their hit “This is America.” On a night that included performances from Smokey Robinson, Diana Ross and Dolly Parton (yes, it’s 2019), no one performance stood above the rest. Seeing Dolly Parton sing a collection of her greatest hits alongside artists such as Miley Cyrus and Katy Perry was just as awesome as witnessing Smokey Robinson, Jennifer Lopez and crew perform Motown classics such as “Dancing in the Street” and “Do You Love Me”. Diana Ross’ threw herself a pretty memorable 75th birthday party as well. While all these living legends received great praise and honor from their fellow musicians, the Recording Academy did not ignore the greatness of the late Aretha Franklin, providing her with an outstanding tribute performance from modern soul singers Fantasia, Andra Day and Yolanda Adams. Amidst this night of high emotions, Recording Academy president Neil Portnow delivered an unofficial apology for his comments about women at the Grammy’s. Portnow’s message addressed his infamous words which followed last year’s male-dominated Grammy’s where he told women “to step up” if they wished to be more represented at this ceremony. Portnow’s message coincided with the night’s overarching theme of unity. Everyone from Drake to Diana Ross had filled the night with support and positivity. Portnow’s thank you to, “a remarkable and diverse group, including some of the most thrilling new and legendary female voices of our times” further emphasized the ceremony’s message of love. Keys took charge of this night-long expression of inclusion, acceptance, and equality. While this night filled the Staples Center in Los Angeles with immeasurable amounts of talent and passion, Keys did her very most to make sure that this music community appreciated each other’s company for outside reasons as well. This atmosphere of support and empowerment resulted in a memorable night for music.
Photo taken from cbstv Instagram
Dolly Parton and other artists performed a collection of her greatest hits.
The Vine
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
Page 9
Sequel to 'The Lego movie' is Underwhelming By Tyler Zikias Contributing Writer “The Lego Movie” was a mega hit when it first came out in February 2014. Everyone thought it was going to be a complete disaster, only made to sell toys and make $100 million. The trailers looked corny and it was released in February, one of the worst months of the year for good movies. However, one aspect of its production flew over everyone’s heads: Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. The duo had only directed “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs” and the surprisingly funny “21 Jump Street” before returning to animation with “The Lego Movie.” The pair has since gone on to direct “22 Jump Street,” the pilot episode of “Brooklyn NineNine” and have writing credits on one of the best movies of 2018, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.” Quite literally everything they’ve touched has turned to gold. That being said, they blew expectations out of the water with a heartfelt story, non-stop laughs and meticulously well done animation. The Lego brand has since gone on to do a “Lego Batman” and “Lego Ninjago” spinoff, which I thought were pretty good and not very good respectively as neither are able to touch the excitement and joy that was the original Lego film. The main fear I had for “The Lego Movie 2: the Second Part” was the departure of Phil Lord and Chris Miller as directors, and their absence is definitely felt. This second film tries its best to build upon the themes and story of the first and mostly succeeds, but feels rather disappointing and run-of-the-mill than some of the animated gems to hit theaters recently. The story structure is rather similar to the first, with every man Emmet (Chris Pratt) desperately trying to prove himself to his town of minifigures as more than someone who just saved the universe once. It isn’t until his best friend Lucy (Elizabeth Banks), Batman (Will Arnett) and other Lego figures are kidnapped by the “un-villainous” Queen Watevra Wa’Nabi (Tiffany Haddish) that the story kicks into high gear. Emmet adventures into the unknown to save his friends and runs into the coolest rogue in the universe, Rex Dangervest (Also voiced by Pratt). Twists and turns ensue in a very similar arc as the first film with different themes sprinkled throughout. While the focus of the first film was to flaunt your creativity, the message this time around is mostly focused towards growing up, something which the teens who watched the original film five years ago can relate to. I think the choice to go this route was a smart move for a sequel.
The pacing of the original movie was incredibly tight. Every single frame has something interesting happening. It required your full attention at all times for the most rewarding experience because you never knew which Lego cameo you would see next. The sequel starts off really strong and introduces some interesting ideas right out of the gate, but it can’t keep up with the frenetic sense of energy from the first film. I have the largest problem with the second act. It’s very slow moving and doesn’t feel as connected to the story as the first and last acts. The entire voice cast was stellar, but the film itself doesn’t give them much to go on. The script is solid, with some hysterical lines sprinkled throughout, but everything feels a bit dialled down. Pratt does great work here voicing both Emmet and Rex. The two have great moments together and the life of the film relies on their relationship. Their scenes are what make the second act not a complete bore and carry the film into a strong third act. Banks also adds a lot more humanity to Lucy in the sequel, with several scenes revealing more about her past and what she’s trying to be. Being that this is middle chapter of this proposed trilogy, I think it’s great that the main duo is being given more character development and remain the heart of the film. Also, Arnett remains amazing as Batman. All in all, the film is good. It isn’t great or a breath of fresh air like the first one was, but it has its qualities. I just couldn’t help but feel a little underwhelmed by how slow the film felt at parts. It feels like a huge step down from the original, which barely gives you a second to breath, but when it does, it feels earned. Even the animation, while still great, doesn’t feel like much care has been put into it. I feel like this is what the first Lego movie made should have felt like. A good movie that is inoffensive and can occupy your time for 90 minutes. But, the fact that the bar was set so high, makes this a slightly disappointing experience. I would still definitely recommend checking this one out because it has a lot to say and it is wildly entertaining. I had a good time while watching it, but can’t get help but get a rather average vibe when looking back on the whole film. Grade: B
The Mirror Abroad: Eileen's Exciting Adventures By Eileen Michaud Abroad Columnist
After settling into our new home in Florence, Italy, my friends and I thought a day in the countryside would do us some good! We woke up at 6 a.m. to catch a bus to Assisi, a tiny medieval hilltop town overlooking the Umbrian countryside. This trip was a student pilgrimage, so our day was inspired by the life of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of the environment. We planned to visit the basilicas and holy sites where St. Francis lived out his mission to rebuild the Church and to promote peace among all of humanity. Two hours after we left, we were trekking up narrow medieval cobbled streets to the Basilica of St. Francis, EileenMichaud/TheMirror the site of his burial and home to beautiful frescoed walls and ceilings by masArt in Basilica of St. Francis. ters of late medieval art, including Giotto. This Basilica is the site where Pope John Paul II held an interfaith peace conference in 1986, in honor of St. Francis’ active promotion of peace and interfaith dialogue. Our guide, a Franciscan friar from Kenya, pointed out the chair behind the altar which is reserved strictly for the Pope. The most inspirational part of the day for me was hiking down a pathway, surrounded by silvery green olive trees, to the Franciscan monastery of San Damiano. This monastery is where St. Francis received his call from God to rebuild his Church as it was in disrepair and in need of spiritual guidance. In fact, the Cross of San Damiano, which St. Francis was praying in front of when he received this directive from God, is currently in the Cathedral of Santa Chiara in Assisi. Our pilgrimage group had a chance to pray the very same prayer that St. Francis spoke when God communicated with him while in front of this same cross: Most high, glorious God, Cast your light into the darkness of my heart.
Give me, Lord, right faith, firm hope, Perfect charity And profound humility, With wisdom and perception, So that I may carry out what is truly your holy will Amen (St. Francis of Assisi) To be in the very same location where St. Francis received his lifelong vocation was an experience only heightened by the vast swath of misty countryside sweeping below this monastery. This is the very same landscape over which St. Francis wrote the “Canticle of Creation” at the end of his life, blind and gravely ill yet always in awe at God’s gift of creation to the human race. His references to aspects of nature such as “Brother Sun” and “Sister Moon” have been widely adopted into songs and poems that likewise glorify the beautiful earth that we have been given! To finish this short story of my day in Assisi is a lesson I learned on this pilgrimage: Peace is the greatest element of happiness, because when you are at peace with whatever vocation you have chosen for yourself, the prospect of happiness finds itself in this purpose! EileenMichaud/TheMirror
View of Franciscan monastery of San Damiano.
The Vine
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
Page 10
Inside Sabrina's Closet: Shoes By Sabrina Musto Fashion Columnist
So far, 2019 has been the year of shoes for me. Between Black Friday, Christmas and all those New Year’s sales, I have added a number of impressive shoes to my collection, which is why I want to share a CreativeCommons/GoogleImages look at my current favorite shoes, some stylish, others for comfort, but regardless all staples of my wardrobe. New year, new me. At least, that is what everyone says when the new year comes around. I started the new year with a new pair of sneakers, which gave me even more motivation to actually get to the gym. Adidas QUESTAR X BYD sneakers in ice purple have been the perfect sneaker for getting in shape. They are stylish and comfortable, but, most of all, I really feel a difference in my workout. I am traditionally a Nike girl, but I think I will be making the switch over to Adidas after purchasing these. Recommendation: 9/10 My royal blue Crocs Classic Clogs are a somewhat controversial buy amongst my family and friends. Some think they are fun, while others think I should never wear them in public. I wanted a pair of crocs because everyone I have ever known who has or has had them says they are the most comfortable shoes ever, so I had to give them a go. To make myself very clear, I do not think Crocs are a particularly stylish shoe and I do not wear them to be trendy. I wear them because what everyone says is true: they are incredibly comfortable. No, I would not wear them out to dinner or on a date, but for running quick errands, going grocery shopping, or just wanting some comfort in your life, I highly recommend grabbing a pair of crocs. Recommendation: 8/10 I also acquired Steve Madden Reece Grey Suede booties. These are my favorite pair of booties of all the booties I have ever purchased, so much so that I got a second pair in black. These boots are perfect for so many reasons, some of which include that they are comfortable, have the perfect heel size that make them easy to walk in and are both stylish and versatile. These boots can be worn with anything and still look good. You can dress them up with a nice dress or skirt, or down with a pair of jeans. No matter what, they look amazing. The boots’ look is also unique, because they combine suede with a knit material that hugs the ankle effortlessly. Recommendation: 10/10 While on the Steve Madden train, I also acquired a pair of statement shoes for the workplace. Antoinette Leopard mules add pop and style to all of my fairly drab workplace
pieces. As we all know, workplace attire can be stylish, but it is hard to keep it interesting every day without breaking the bank. Adding a statement shoe can add jazz to your look without having to make multiple purchases. While a leopard print does not match with everything, they really tie a look together when they do. My concern with the mules is that they do not have a back, which sometimes leads to them sliding off a bit, however, it is definitely worth it for the level of style you are getting. Recommendation: 8.5/10 Crea So there you have it. A shoe tiveC omm ons/ rundown and a look inside my closGoo gleIm et! I love shoes. Sometimes it can be ages hard to decide if splurging on a new pair is worth the money, but in the case of these shoes, I definitely think it is!
CreativeCommons/OpenClipArt
'Velvet Buzzsaw' Is a Disappointment By Sean McQuade Contributing Writer
In Dan Gilroy’s most recent horror/mystery film, “Velvet Buzzsaw,” viewers experience a suspenseful, yet unsettling and somewhat poorly filmed, story which leaves us feeling uncomfortable and dissatisfied. After exploring the dark and desperate world of crime journalism in his 2014 thriller, “Nightcrawler,” Gilroy has taken to the cinematic world of mystery and violence. The director’s choice to cast Jake Gyllenhaal as the main protagonist Morf Vandewalt in “Velvet Buzzsaw” was a surprising choice as he had previously cast the actor in “Nightcrawler.” Although this is Gyllenhaal's second performance with Gilroy in the past five years, this film shows a completely different side of Gyllenhaal in which he plays a clever, yet flamboyant, art critic set to the backdrop of Miami’s vibrant and affluent social sphere. “Velvet Buzzsaw” follows several visionary artists through their journeys towards fame and glory as well as the ruthless things they do to advance their careers in the competitive world of art. As we follow these artists around, the viewer is introduced to the recently departed Vetril Dease (Alan Mandell), an artist who channeled his pain and trauma into his paranormal paintings. These paintings, we find out, have disturbing and supernatural abilities to attack whoever is looking at them. Despite a sincerely innovative and promising storyline, the film does not fulfill the excitement it was assumed to satisfy as its release as a Netflix Original on Feb. 1, 2019. However, I am confident to say that Gyllenhaal’s performance is one of the only redeeming qualities of this poor attempt at a new and out-of-the-box experiment within the horror/mystery genre of cinema. Gyllenhaal’s insightful and emotional attachment to his character is evident throughout the film and it is simply a treat to see him embody the contemporary art critic which so many of us know and dislike. Although Gyllenhaal’s emotion and nearly spot-on portrayal of Morf Vandewalt gives the movie some redeeming qualities, the movie feels closer to bizarre and cheap than new and daring. “Velvet Buzzsaw” simply does not feel as if it was edited properly nor does the dialogue present any real essence. Scenes feel rushed and impersonal while the performances of most members of the cast are lifeless and dull. Although the concept of the movie is quite intriguing, Gilroy made a poor attempt at trying to combine humor with horror. Despite having several “scary” scenes in the film, each of them were cut far too short and ended without satisfying the viewer. In fact, during some moments throughout this film, these “scary” scenes were almost laughable. These underwhelming horror scenes took a large toll on the quality of the film. However, if Gilroy was attempting to shed some light on the world of art and depict it’s dry and witty humor which so many of these artists possess, he succeeded. The dialogue was comical and the blunt manner in which jokes were exchanged made them far more funny. John Malkovich’s character (Piers) is hilariously subtle in the delivery of his lines just as Gyllenhaal's Wandewalt is intelligently straight-forward. The movie admittedly had several enjoyable comedic moments, however it was diminished by Gilroy’s attempt to return to the film’s dramatic and suspenseful origin after nearly every joke. Overall, “Velvet Buzzsaw” left me dissatisfied and wanting
more from such a talented director. I would score this film as a 2.7/5 considering all aspects of the film.
The Vine
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
Inkwell Spotlight
CreativeCommons/OpenClipArt
Hell yeah I lost my identity By Paul Bova Contributing Writer at the Inkwell Idiots Detaching Every Necessary Tender Involving Treasure You worked for
Page 11
Robert Hirsch Gives Compelling Lecture By Marc Stacey Contributing Writer It was a rainy, dark and cold night on the Fairfield University campus, which set the mood perfectly for a powerful lecture and slideshow. Students, faculty and staff piled into the Charles F. Dolan School of Business Dining Room on Wednesday, Feb. 6 to listen to Robert Hirsch, a photographic historian and artist, give a lecture titled “Ghosts: An Artistic Meditation on the Holocaust and AntiSemitism.” Hirsch’s talk was highly anticipated, and there was not an empty seat available. Hirsch began his talk by mentioning that he is not a traditional Holocaust scholar, but an overall visual art seeker, which is what compelled him to the photographs depicted in “Ghosts.” Although Hirsch grew up in a post Holocaust world, he mentioned that he found such a great appreciation for art and thought that art related to the Holocaust was extremely meaningful. “Ghosts” helped Hirsch represent the unimaginable — the blurry images that are often forgotten. “Anti Semitism is a disease without a cure,” Hirsch announced as images of innocent children quickly shuffled through the slideshow on the screen behind him, adding to the powerful messages he was sending to the group. Hirsch’s talk was not only powerful and inspirational, but was also extremely informative on a
topic that is often forgotten or not thought about in our world today. This was another point that Hirsch emphasized in his lecture. “The events of the Holocaust are still affecting people today and should be taught. Want to protect democracy? Teach people about the Holocaust,” Hirsch says. Some of the facts that Hirsch provided were definitely eye opening to the group of Fairfield students and faculty members. He mentioned that, according to the FBI, just about two-thirds of religious crimes in the United States today are anti semitic. This statistic itself was appalling. Many would think that, in our society today, this wouldn’t be the case, but many religious hate crimes are still anti-semitic. Hirsch also discussed that, although the Holocaust has been over for many years, it doesn’t mean we can’t learn from it. Furthermore, it is essential that we study the events of the Holocaust, because of the effects that it still has on our society today. The photographs that were displayed in the lecture portrayed many messages- innocence, sadness and suffering. One message that stuck out though, was remembrance. Hirsch’s main goal of this lecture was not to just inform people about the Holocaust but to teach us to not forget the events of that time. The images showed the faces of frightened, defenseless children, and the biggest issue that we have today is that these children’s innocent faces are forgotten. Hirsch’s main goal with “Ghosts” was to put his audience face to face with these children and recognize them as human beings. Hirsch ended his lecture in the Dolan School of Business Dining Room by extending the overall message and main goal that he hoped to convey while compiling “Ghosts”. This goal was to, “put the audience face to face with other people, looking them in the eye and hopefully making them feel MollyLamendola/TheMirror more connected with a fellow human being.” Art from Hirch's "Ghosts: French Holocaust Children"
Four Healthy Foods That Happen to be Red By Sabrina Trueheart Copy Editor As author Alan D. Wolfelt says, “Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate.” Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and, whether or not you enjoy this holiday, many of us have one love that will not ever betray us: food. Food has a way of making us feel like we are in love, whether we are sharing food with somebody we care about or the food is just that good. During this time of year, the Valentine’s Day aisle of every store is filled with chocolate and candy. While millions of people may be splurging on Feb. 14, there are ways to celebrate V-day without eating the most sugary foods out there. Here are four healthy foods that just happen to be red, and how they can benefit your body: Pomegranates Pomegranate is usually the scent of our Bath and Body Works hand soap, however the fruit itself can do great things for our bodies. Pomegranates contain flavonoids, which can prevent cancer cells from growing or even spreading. They are also filled with vitamins A, C and E, which help keep our immune and digestive systems healthy. The nutrition facts for pomegranates also show that they are a good source of iron. This year, ditch your pomegranate-scented soap for pomegranate juice, seeds or syrup! Strawberries I am a skincare fanatic, so the skin benefits of strawberries immediately caught my attention. Like many fruits, strawberries contain alpha hydroxy acid and antioxidants that prevent wrinkles and sagging skin. Several sources confirm that the antioxidants in strawberries also maintain eye health and can improve vision. Hint: for Valentine’s Day, enjoy your edible skincare covered in chocolate and sprinkles! Red Wine If you’re 21 or over, you may be enjoying a glass of red wine on Valentine’s Day. Red wine contains antioxidants that protect the lining of the blood vessels in your heart, making it “heart-healthy.” Besides this, red wine helps lower cholesterol and may reduce the formation of blood clots. Be careful though, red wine still counts as an alcoholic beverage and should only be enjoyed in moderation. Cranberries The cranberry is an incredible fruit. Their best known benefit is probably their ability to prevent urinary tract infections. Cranberry juice and pills can be your best friend if you are in this situation. Apart from this, cranberries are a great source of fiber, which improves your digestive health. To keep a red theme this Valentine’s Day, start your morning off with a glass of cranberry juice!
C
re
at
iv
eC
om
m
on
s/
O
pe
nC
lip
A
rt
CreativeCommons/OpenClipArt
CreativeCommons/GoogleImages
Coffee Break
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
Page 12
Coffee Break Editor: Julia Crews julia.crews@student.fairfield.edu
TURKEY POLITICS HEATING UP ON CAMPUS Have you ever wondered what is going on inside the minds of the campus turkeys? The seemingly growing abundance of them and their increasing boldness have led students to question what could be going on with them. For this exclusive report, the Coffee Break Team was able to uncover that there is a political reason behind the turkeys’ rallying. According to an anonymous source who would prefer to keep his feathers, the Fairfield University Turkey Association elections are on the horizon! Turkeys who wish to have their names on the FUTA ballot are asking their gobbling friends for signatures and answering questions about their philosophies and what they will do for the turkey population as a whole if they were to be elected. One of which is to end the serving of turkey-based dishes in the Daniel & Grace Tully Dining Commons. Meanwhile, turkeys who aren’t running are trying to decide who they will vote for, convening with their friends and discussing the options. The competition has yet to start, but the race for signatures is no joke. The turkeys plan on holding a debate on Thursday, Feb. 21, after which polls will open at 8 p.m. This happens to be the same date and time as the Fairfield University Student Association debate and election, so mark your calendars. Fairfield University students of all classes could take a page out of the turkeys’ book. There’s no harm in asking candidates about their values and plans for the future before signing your name on their petitions. The more students know about their future FUSA government, the better.
Some Sudoku For U
Creative Commons/pexels
opensky.com
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
Sports
SPORTS
This Week in Sports:
Sports Editors: Dan Montgomery and Patrick Getz »daniel.montgomery@student.fairfield.edu
Page 13
Weekend Update
In Case You Missed It: Thursday, February 7th -Women's Basketball defeated Canisus, 72-65 Saturday, February 9th -Women's Basketball defeated Niagara, 55-54 -Women's Lacrosse defeated Holy Cross, 13-9 Photo Contributed by Sports Information Desk
On Feb. 11, Fairfield University Women’s Lacrosse defender Caroline Mangan ‘22 earned Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week honors for her effort in the Stags’ 13-9 win over the College of Holy Cross on Saturday, Feb. 9. Mangan caused five turnovers, adding to Fairfield’s 24 total forced turnovers, as well as four ground balls as she received the starting nod which was also her debut as a Stag. The five forced turnovers were the most by any MAAC player during the opening week of action. The Stags open up their home slate on Wednesday, Feb. 13 to play University of Connecticut at 3 p.m. at Rafferty Stadium.
Upcoming This Week: Wednesday, February 13th -Women's Lacrosse vs. UConn, 3 p.m. Thursday, February 14th -Women's Basketball at Siena, 7 p.m. Friday, February 15th -Men's Basketball at Canisius,
Photo Contributed by Sports Information Desk
On Feb. 11, Fairfield University Women’s Basketball for ward Lou-Lopez Senechal ‘22 received a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week nod for her performance last week, averaging 14.5 points while the Stags went 2-0. This is the second time Lopez-Senechal has won MAAC Rookie of the Week as she also was MAAC Rookie of the Week back on Jan. 7. She ranks third on the team with 10.4 points per game as well as placing third on the team in blocks (eight), and steals (15). The Stags travel to face Siena College on Thursday, Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. to establish their longest winning streak of the season as Lopez-Senechal looks to keep her impressive first-year season going.
7 p.m. Saturday, February 16th -Men's Lacrosse vs. Saint Joseph's, 1 p.m. Sunday, February 17th -Men's Basketball at Niagara, 2 p.m. -Women's Basketball vs. Quinnipiac, 2 p.m.
In this week's issue...
- Women's Basketball Edges Niagara, 55-54 (Page 14)
- Leadership from Landy Goes Beyond The Court (Page15) - Women's Lacrosse Upends Holy Cross, 13-9 (Page 15) - MAAC Foe Monmouth Defeats Fairfield, 61-49 (Page 16)
Sports
Page 14
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
Women's Basketball Edges Niagara, 55-54
Photo from Sports Information Desk Senior guard Casey Foley led all Stags with three made three-pointers as she finished third on the team with 11 points against Niagara University. She also registered six assists and a steal in 29 minutes of action.
By Christopher LaZazzera Assistant Sports Editor The Fairfield University Women’s Basketball team seems to be heating up at just the right time in their season after securing their seventh win of the season. With a 55-54 win on Saturday over Niagara University, the Stags have now won four out of their last six games. It took a persistent effort on the defensive side from the start as Niagara entered the contest putting up at least 70 points in three out of their last six contests. Fairfield held Niagara to just 29 first half points on only 44.4 percent shooting. With a big emphasis on defense, Fairfield needed to find its scoring from somewhere trailing 29-25 at the half. First-year Lou Lopez-Senechal scored 11 of her 13 points in the second half to lead the charge as she took home Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference honors in part to this performance. Senior Khadidatou Diouf poured in nine of her 12 points and Casey Foley ‘19 added eight of her 11 points to help lead the way in the latter half. This instant offense only fortified the Stags to have one more great defensive quarter. They held the Purple Eagles to an 18 percent shooting mark (2-for-11) in the fourth quarter.
Weekly 4x5 Because we have witty things to say ... Dan Montgomery Co-Sports Editor
Patrick Getz Co-Sports Editor
Chris LaZazzera Assistant Sports Editor
Niagara could not convert from three-point range either, hitting just one of their six attempts from behind the arc in the fourth. In contrast, Fairfield nailed about 40 percent of their three point field goals as guard Sam Kramer ‘20 nailed two three-pointers as Fairfield went 7-18 from beyond the arc. The Stags had four different players record a made three-pointer as the Purple Eagles only had two players drain a perimeter shot. Foley was clutch with under two minutes left in the game for the Stags. Coming down the court she hit the go-ahead 3-pointer with 1:30 left in the game. All it took for Fairfield to secure the win was one final locked in defensive possession and a Diouf rebound with two seconds left. The Stags put in a brilliant effort on Saturday and will need more four quarter performances like this one going forward. Fairfield heads to Loudonville, N.Y. on Thursday, Feb. 14 to face off against fellow Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference foe Siena College at 7 p.m to go for their third straight win.
Your 2018-2019 4x5 Columnists:
Dan Montgomery, Patrick Getz, Chris LaZazzera and Deanna Carbone
What was your favorite childhood music group?
What do you think about Kyler Murray going to the NFL?
The Godfather or Goodfellas?
Plans for Presidents Day weekend?
Thoughts going back into baseball season?
Nickelback...Look at this Photographhh
I love it. The kid will actually have people watch his games.
Leave the gun, take the cannoli!!
Missing the Grape while I am back in NJ :(
Baseball is irrelevant at this time of year.
3 Doors Down, so many classics...
Completely wrong decision... It's a money grab for him and he has longevity in baseball but all he sees is $$$$!
Gotta take the Godfatjher... It's a movie you can't refuse!
Just keeping up with the Stags...
Can't wait for baseball season to come back and see my Mets back on the baseball diamond!
Backstreet Boys
I like it, Pats should snatch him up as a possible successor to the GOAT.
Godfather obviously you gabagool!
Romantic dinner in Boston with my Valentine.
Nothing could be better than last season! The Red Sox beating LA followed by the Pats doing the same to win it all!
My heart was torn between One
Don't think I can make a comment on that.
Leave the gun, take the cannolis!
Deanna Carbone Direction and the Jonas Brothers! Managing Editor
Taking my final college tour to visit my friends.
LGM!
Sports
THE MIRROR | Week of February 13, 2019
Page 15
Leadership from Landy Goes Beyond The Court By Patrick Getz Co-Sports Editor Senior Durham, Conn. native, and guard for the Fairfield University Women’s Basketball team, Kendra Landy sat down to talk about her time at Fairfield as she recovers from her season-ending ACL injury. She discusses how she remained a leader for the Stags as well as how much her teammates mean to her. Q: What is one thing that you have enjoyed the most this season? A: I have appreciated the little things a lot more and just hanging out with my teammates, like being in the locker room before and after practice. It’s not that I took it for granted before, but now I think I am really appreciating them more now, especially since now I am not on the court. Q: How have you remained a leader on this team despite not being on the court? A: I think that was the toughest transition for me because I have always been a leader by example, more than a vocal leader so I definitely stepped outside of my comfort zone to develop my vocal leadership a lot more. I have just been calling [my teammates] over and telling them what I think instead of showing them. Q: How has this injury made you a better person/player, looking to rehab and play even better next year? A: It has definitely taught me alot about myself and how I face adversity. I had no choice but to face it head-on and show up the next day, ready to be a captain. It also has taught me how to be there in different ways and that you can still be a leader off-the-court. Q: Is this the toughest roadblock you have faced in your basketball career? If not, what was it? A: This year probably has been [the hardest]. I have had injuries but I have never actually been in a doctor’s office, being told that your season is over. I have never actually had that conversation before. But I think I have found positives in it and just seeing it different ways.
Contributed by Sports Information Desk Senior Kendra Landy serves as a team captain for the Stags as her leadership has helped stablize Fairfield's guard play for the past three years.
Q: What has the game of basketball meant to you? How deep is the connection that you have with your teammates? A: I played seven sports growing up and I played soccer and basketball all throughout high school but basketball has given me everything: my best friends and college so it definitely means a lot. It will definitely mean a lot forever. My teammates are so awesome and we are such a close team. Everyone has been there for me.
Women's Lacrosse Upends Holy Cross, 13-9
Photo taken from Sports Information Desk Attacker Taylor Mitchell '19 topped all Fairfield scorers with five goals and six points on 11 shots as she went 2-4 in free position shots. Mitchell was one of four Stags who tallied multiple goals on Saturday.
By Patrick Getz Co-Sports Editor The Fairfield Women’s Lacrosse team opened up their 2019 season with an impressive 13-9 win over the College of Holy Cross Crusaders in Worcester, Mass. Senior Taylor Mitchell led the Stags with five goals along with an assist, equaling six points, in which her goal and point totals are both career-highs. To start off the game, Jillian Winwood ‘21 opened up the scoring just over six minutes in the contest with the first goal of the game, which was assisted by Mitchell. As a response, Holy Cross registered two consecutive goals of their own, first from midfielder Bryn Carroll ‘20 and then from attacker Keely Connors ‘19 to give the Crusaders a 2-1 lead in the first half. This lead did not last long as Fairfield took less than two minutes to answer and tie the game at two, with a goal from midfielder Kelly Horning ‘21. After tying the game, the Stags struck home three straight goals, all courtesy of Mitchell, to give Fairfield a 5-2 lead with a 6:34 minute lead before the first half. This three goal stretch proved to give the Stags the necessary momentum for the rest of the game as they did not relinquish the lead afterwards. However, before the half ended, Holy Cross midfielder Jolie Creo recorded her first goal at the 4:36 minute mark to cut the Fairfield lead to 5-3. The Stags did not lose any steam as they came right out, attacking and scoring just two minutes in the second half from midfielder Diana DeVita ‘21, pushing
their lead back to three goals. It only took a minute for the Crusaders to respond as Connors scored her second goal of the game and Carroll registered her second point of the game. Four minutes later, midfielder Audrey Mandaro tallied her first goal of 2019 as Holy Cross pulled within one goal of Fairfield with over 24 minutes left in the contest. Midfielder Winwood rattled off three consecutive goals over a six-minute period to push her goal total to four on the day as DeVita added her second goal of the game. This was the second time in the game that Fairfield scored four straight goals as the Fairfield lead swelled back up to five with an overall score of 10-5. With goals from Mandaro and Connors around the 11-minute mark, the lead was again trimmed to three goals but the Fairfield offensive firepower became too much for Amanda Belichick’s Holy Cross squad. Taylor and Mitchell added goals for the Stags as Connors recorded her fourth goal with just 17 seconds left, also seen as a garbage-time goal. Whenever Holy Cross seemed to surge and threaten Fairfield, the Stags always had an answer all game long as this win will set the Women’s Lacrosse team’s confidence high to start the season. The Stags will take on University of Connecticut on Wednesday, Feb. 13 at Rafferty Stadium as they look to go 2-0 on the year.
@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports Week of February 13, 2019
fairfieldmirror.com
SPORTS 16
Sports Editor: Dan Montgomery and Patrick Getz » daniel.montgomery@student.fairfield.edu
MAAC Foe Monmouth Defeats Fairfield, 61-49
Contributed by Sports Information Desk Senior forward Jonathan Kasibabu recorded seven rebounds and three blocks and a steal along four points in 35 minutes of action. The Stags are 7-18 on the season as they now have a 4-9 record in the MAAC.
By Michael Ambrosio Contributing Writer Judging from the coaches and players spontaneous dance moves during their pregame shootaround, the Monmouth University Hawks were ready to square off against a struggling Fairfield University Stags Men’s Basketball team at Webster Bank Arena in Bridgeport, Conn. on Saturday, Feb. 9. Monmouth was able to dance their way to a 61-49 victory against Fairfield, with the Hawks’ Ray Salnave leading the way with a game high 17 points. The win keeps Monmouth in first place in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference standings, while Fairfield drops even closer to the basement, with their second loss to the Hawks this season. The Stags started out hot with a 7-0 run. However, this would be the only point in the game in which they would possess a lead. With just over five minutes to play in the first half, Monmouth jumped out to what had been their largest lead of the game at that point of 10 points. Fairfield, who had been unable to buy a bucket, would then get a three-pointer from way downtown from their leading scorer on the season, Landon Taliaferro ‘20, who had gone scoreless until that point. Fairfield committed one of the biggest no-no’s in all of basketball, when they fouled a three-point shooter with 4.6 seconds to play in the first half. This summarized their first half, as they trailed Monmouth by 13. Monmouth headed into the locker room on an 8-0 run and with momentum. Monmouth picked up where they left off to begin the second, as they led big at Webster Bank. Fairfield’s Jesus Cruz ‘21 brought life into the stadium by draining a three with just over five minutes left to play, which brought the Stags within 10 points of the Hawks for the first time in the second half.
The crowd at Webster Bank had been out of the game up until that point. When asked about the difference between the atmospheres of Webster Bank and the Stags home court in Alumni Hall, Fairfield Head Coach Sydney Johnson said, “I think the difference is [Webster Bank] is beautiful, its modern, but there’s not the same type of positive energy as it is when we’re on the campus.” The arena’s life would not last for long, as Monmouth tightened up their defense. Fairfield would miss three consecutive threes with just under a minute to play, effectively turning the game into a free throw shooting marathon for Monmouth. The Hawks secured the 12-point victory in a game in which, after an initial run by Fairfield, they never looked like they had lost control. Fairfield’s inability to hit from beyond-the-arc, and not being able to work the ball inside enough, led to them posting one of their lowest totals in terms of scoring the basketball on the season. The Stags cold night from 3-point land helped do them in. Fairfield shot, on average, a solid 35 percent from three for the season, were only able to knock down 15 percent on 5-33 attempts from deep. A bright spot for Fairfield was Guard Taj Benning ‘21. The impressive sophomore, whoaverages four points a game for the season, led Fairfield with 12 points, tying a career high. When asked about working the ball inside, Benning said, “If we’re just patient, and wait for our plays to develop, we’ll be able to get it to [our big men] because they can score down there, and they’re important to our offense.” Fairfield will look to bounce back offensively on Friday, Feb. 15, as they take on Canisius College on the road.
Contributed by Sports Information Desk Sophomore forward Wassef Methnani (left) grabbed five rebounds and blocked a shot in 15 minutes as Matija Milin '19 (left center) scored six points and Felix Lemetti '22 (right center) scored eights points.