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THE MIRROR Independent student newspaper

Week of February 6, 2019

Vol. 44 Iss. 14

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Is This a Simulation?

Virtual reality comes to Fairfield

By Julia Monteleone Assistant News Editor

Alicia Phaneuf/ The Mirror

Left to right: Dean Greenwald, Ross Douthat, Gwendoline Alphonso and Rick Perlstein

Fairfield University is taking a massive step into the future. The University now has its very own Virtual Reality Chamber available for students to use in Xavier Hall.

The space allows for an interactive experience with endless possibilities for students working in film and consists of a PC powerful enough to project just about anything one can think of throughout the space.

The University will be utilizing the chamber in the classroom, and has a class contoured specifically around virtual reality. Assistant professor of film, television & media arts Patrick Brooks is among one of the first professors to begin utilizing the chamber in his class, Science Fiction Genres: Virtual Reality.

“I’m currently offering a class on science fiction films that feature depiction of VR, such as “Total Recall,” “The Matrix,” “Ready Player One” and many others. I hope this is a powerful entry point into the world of VR for students, allowing them to see how the sci-fi genre imagines the great possibility, dangers, limits and endless possibilities of the platform. After watching and discussing a group of 12-13 films, students will have their own opportunity to either make (using our VR camera), or envision a virtual reality experience,” said Brooks.

Conservatives Clash at FUSA vs. FUSA Common Ground Student govt tries to regulate itself Read Fairfield on Page Two

By Matthew Breton Contributing Writer

Two opposing writers engaged in a civil dialogue about the State of the Union during an Open VISIONS Forum at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts on Tuesday, Feb. 5. Occurring hours before President Trump was to address Congress with the official version, the conversation between Ross Douthat and Rick Perlstein extended past the scheduled time with both speakers fighting to make their points. The leading intellectuals went back and forth over whether or not the American empire is in a state of crisis or a stasis.

Along with an in-depth discussion of the current political equation and where we are headed, the theme of the event was part of the Common Ground Lecture Series lead by Richard A. Greenwald, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. According to Greenwald, civil discourse is extremely important and intertwined with the history of the higher education mission. He opened the event by discussing the potential to disagree wildly while having a good time doing and learning in the process. The message was to get away from the TV

and to hear real thinkers, leaders in their fields.

Douthat is a conservative columnist for the New York Times who covers controversial topics such as politics, religion, moral values and higher education.

Douthat made the case that what we may be witnessing in this polarized political environment is actually a “deep frustration with a political system incapable of rapid changes.” He argues that neither party currently has the capacity to govern. Despite the wild swings and charged rhetoric, very little has happened in either the Obama or current administration.

Perlstein is an American historian with three bestselling books chronicling American conservatism.

A virtual encyclopedia of the history of American politics, he jokes that the source of his knowledge is “reading columns from 30 years ago and finding all the ways they were wrong.” He argues that far from being locked in a stalemate, there is a force bubbling right underneath the surface that is about to break it. He cites new forces rising in American politics such as Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the junior U.S. Representative from the Bronx.

Read Open on Page Four

By Sabina Dirienzo Chief Copy Editor

By Claire Monahan News Editor Senators from the Fairfield University Student Association debated a bill aimed at the Executive Branch in the Lower Level of the Barone Campus Center on Jan. 30. They stopped to review the rules of debate multiple times as dean of students Will Johnson chatted with associate director of Office of Student Engagement Jeremy Kaler in the public gallery section of the General Senate Meeting.

“A Bill to Provide FUSA Senate Consistent and Transparent Information from the Executive Branch,” requires that a representative from every board of the executive branch attend every GSM. Senators voiced their opinions during structured debate, with alternating one-minute for and against speeches. Sophomore Senator Ali Haidar sponsored the bill and spoke first in favor of it. He argued that the attendance of members of the executive branch would provide the senate the necessary information to do its job.

Read Resolution on Page Two

Panel on NFL to Tackle the Issues

By Julia Monteleone Assistant News Editor

There is no question that kneeling during the National Anthem has been the center of sports controversy in the last year. At the center of that controversy is Colin Kaepernick, who knelt and even sat during the Anthem in 2016.

Following Kaepernick’s first kneel, many other players in other sports began to follow. The controversy was exacerbated by President Donald Trump when he demanded coaches in the NFL fire players taking a knee.

The question arises, to what do our athletes owe to their country? Should they do what they are there to accomplish without rocking the boat? Or do they have a responsi-

bility to use their platform to express their beliefs?

The act of kneeling is a means of calling attention to the racial inequality and police brutality in the United States. The country is split on the matter, as some believe kneeling is disrespectful to our flag and to our servicemen, while others believe in Kaepernick’s bravery in peacefully protesting.

The Office of Student Diversity and Multicultural Affairs in collaboration with Fairfield University Athletics and the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Committee will be taking on the topic in their upcoming panel discussion titled “Shut up and Play?”

The event will take place in the John A. Barone Campus Center Oak Room at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 6. Panelists will tackle race, sports and activism. Students are invited to come participate in the conversation.

News

THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2019

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Alicia Phaneuf/ The Mirror

Fairfield Film Embraces Virtual Reality Continued from Page One

Many know about the concept of VR from Oculus goggles released in 2016, which allow a person to virtually transport themselves to almost anywhere in the world. Brooks explained that the experience is so realistic that one can easily forget where they are.

“Hopefully they will find how easy it is to forget where you are and even question, a little bit, their assumptions of what is real and what is virtual,” said Brooks. “Already, a number of students have spent hours in the VR room and have reported that at times, they forgot they were in a basement in Xavier Hall.”

One of those students is Justin Demas ‘17, who commented on the new addition to Xavier Hall.

“When I first started I felt like a kid again, cause as a kid I was into gaming. So doing a new form of it and actually feeling it and experiencing it — it was something you never think you could ever do but in today’s day and age with all the new tech, its crazy,” said Demas excitedly.

The VR Chamber is catered to the use of film, television and media arts majors; however, the possibilities are endless.

“I would recommend everyone do this because it’s just a whole new perspective on the world,” continued Demas.

The Mirror had the opportunity to test drive the new program, which has its home in a small, dark room in the offices of Xavier Hall. The first thing one notices about the space is that there is nothing in the room but the system itself. This is because, while using the virtual reality system, it can be Julia Monteleone/ The Mirror easy to knock into the walls and things in the room.

The experience itself was one not soon to be forgotten by The Mirror, Demas demonstrates how to use the new VR lab located in Xavier Hall basement. and we hope to return someday.

“We have this very powerful computer and hardware in campus, primarrators, who would like to take advantage of this resource, within reason, to create singular, ily focused in FTM students. However, I’m always looking for faculty and student collabointerdisciplinary efforts,” pointed out Brooks.

Resolution Passed by Senate Praises Work Constitution.

The next item of business for the Senate was a resolution sponsored by Speaker of the Senate Noelle Guerrera ‘21, “A Resolution to Recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Fairfield University’s Celebration of Activism at Fairfield University Event.” The bill was discussed during the MLK Convocation in the Regina A. Quick Center for

the Arts, and passed with 18 aye votes and zero nays.

The last item passed by the FUSA Senate on Jan. 30 was, “A Resolution to Congratulate the Senate ComNext, Men’s Rowing teammate of Vice President mittee on Facilities, Technology, and Auxiliary Services’ Matthew Marshall ‘19, Senator Charles Cooper ‘19, spoke Dining Initiatives in the Tully Dining Hall,” co-sponsored against the bill, contending that Senate already had the

by Haidar and Guerrera. The resolution recognized the information they needed provided to them in Executive accomplishments of the committee of which Haidar is the Cabinet meeting minutes which are posted to OrgSync. chair.

First-year Senators Alexander Vulcano and Jack The committee was able to get the Daniel & Stalzer also spoke during structured debate.

Grace Tully Dining Commons sandwich station to Stalzer proposed an amendment to the serve chicken cutlets and pepper jack cheese. bill that would only require one member of one “One reason we should be congratulating executive board attend a GSM, with the boards ourselves is when The Mirror asks about what we switching from GSM to GSM. have done,” said Haidar, indicating staff members Junior Senator Bradd Cyr, in objection to of The Mirror in the gallery, “we can show them a Stalzer’s argument that having members of every resolution which will make us look more official.” executive board speak at each meeting would The Senate passed the resolution; only Senmake GSMs carry on too long, said, “We volunteer ators Cooper and Robert George ‘19 voted against the time necessary to do that job.” it.

The language of the bill does not require The final item proposed did not reach the that members of the executive branch boards voting stage. This was “A Resolution to Signify speak at GSMs; it only specifies that they are FUSA’s Right to Free Expression,” also sponsored required to attend.

by Haidar. FUSA Senate declined to consider the The amendment was voted down with 12 bill with 14 votes in opposition and shouts directsenators opposed, five in favor and one abstened at Haidar at the concept of discussing it. tion. The Senate then voted on the original bill to The FUSA Senate moved to adjourn at 8:22 require a member of every board, which passed p.m., after nearly two hours, with senators menwith 11 in favor, six opposed and one abstention. tioning to each other that it had been a productive Claire Monahan/ The Mirror As of Feb. 5, President Danielle Rice ‘19 had not signed or vetoed the bill, and has six class days to FUSA is the official undergraduate student government organization of Fairfield. meeting. do so or the bill will be enacted as per the FUSA Continued from Page One

News

THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2019

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The Mirror Reflects on this Week in Social Media: Compiled by Claire Monahan Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.

Tuesday, 1/29 8:29 a.m.

A Fairfield College Preparatory School student was found recklessly operating a vehicle. The action resulted in suspension of driving privileges on the Fairfield University grounds.

8:35 a.m.

There was a hit and run vehicle accident near the Leslie C. Quick Jr. Recreational Complex. A Prep student was identified and took responsibility.

The student was referred to Prep student conduct.

11:40 p.m.

The odor of marijuana lead to the discovery of drug paraphernalia in Jogues Hall. Students were identified and referred to student conduct.

Saturday, 2/2 3:39 a.m.

There was a report of an unwanted guest in Campion Hall. The individual was later identified as a student who claimed to be sleepwalking.

10:34 a.m.

There was a small flood on the fourth floor of Xavier Hall which was caused by a faucet left on in the custodial room. Water was found leaking through ceiling tiles on the floors below.

Sunday, 2/3 12:04 a.m.

A non-student was issued a criminal trespass notice after refusing to answer questions from DPS. Sunday, 2/3 12:04 a.m.

A non-student was issued a criminal trespass notice after refusing to answer questions from DPS. A tow and rhino (wheel lock) list has been identified. DPS asks everyone to park in their designated locations only.

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

News

THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2019

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DSB Student Gives Back to Bridgeport

By Mimi Loughlin Contributing Writer Elementary school is a carefree time for many children. It is also the time of life when children are learning to read, write, do math, interact with each other and make friendships, all building blocks that will shape the rest of their education to come and the rest of their lives.

This is why Paulina Baclawska ‘19, a double major in accounting and economics at the Charles F. Dolan School of Business, was inspired to raise money for the children at Cesar Batalla Elementary School in Bridgeport, Conn. as part of her Dolan School of Business Year of Service fundraiser. Baclawska was inspired by Lauren Hart ’19, who volunteers at Cesar Batalla School in her education classes.

Baclawska learned that many children at Cesar Batalla do not have resources such as books to practice their reading or notebooks and folders to organize important assignments.

“I was shocked at the lack of funds that were available to these teachers,” Baclawska said. “I had some of my best childhood memories in elementary school and it made me so sad to know that these young students may not have the same experience because of monetary issues.”

“You can imagine how much teachers need to withdraw from their own paychecks in order to make ends meet within their own classrooms and to provide a conducive learning environment for their students,” Baclawska continued, “I wanted to see if there was anything the Fairfield community could do to help out these teachers and students.”

On DonorsChoose.com, where teachers set up donation pages for their classrooms, Ms. M Ostroff, a pre-Kindergarten teacher at César Batalla, is hoping to fund a science exploration station for her three-and-four-year-old students so they can develop their math and science skills through interactive play.

Sixth-grade language arts and social studies Cesar Batalla teacher Mrs. C Ramos wrote about how much even small donations matter to her students. “My students take pride in their work. Many of my students don’t come from the best neighborhoods in town, but they try their best at school,” Ramos said.

“Many of them have experienced trauma in their lives and have difficulty coming to school,” Ramos continued, “Our classes serve students with a range of disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, emotional disturbance, autism spectrum disorder and specific learning disabilities. Your contribution is helping their future.”

Thanks to Baclawska and her Dolan School of Business fundraiser, co-sponsored

by Beta Sigma Gamma, the business honor society, and Alpha Sigma Nu, the Jesuit Honor Society, it is possible to help the children of Cesar Batalla. From Feb. 4-15, there will be

Contributed by Paulina Baclawska

fundraiser tables at Einstein Bros Bagels and at the information desk in the John A. Barone Campus Center.

There will also be a collection table at the lobby in the Dolan School of Business, and a collection box at the Dolan School of Business Dean’s Suite. Students can also donate directly to specific teachers’ classrooms at Cesar Batalla through DonorsChoose.com.

New Campus Ministry Director Announced

By Julia Monteleone Assistant News Editor Following the announcement this fall of Campus Ministry Director Fr. Mark Scalese, S.J taking a new position in Chicago, Fairfield University has announced who is to take his place.

Rev. Paul Keys Rourke, S.J of St. Thomas Parish in Decatur, Ga. will take over as director of Fairfield University Campus Ministry.

Scalese will be taking a position as the Superior of First Studies and Vice-Superior of Gonzaga House Jesuit Community in Chicago, Illinois.

A graduate of Georgetown University, Rourke was the Director of Campus Ministry at

Georgetown University’s Law Center between 2013 and 2018. He received his J.D from Washington University School of Law in 1997, and eventually joined the Society of Jesus in 2000.

According to the announcement, Rourke was responsible for helping to increase student retreat programs and other programs for law students. He also took part in opening a muslim prayer room in the Law Center of Georgetown University. Fr. Rourke was a adjunct professor of law, and taught Catholic Social Thought.

Rev. Gerry Blaszczak, S.J., Vice President for Mission and Identity said in the mass email announcement sent to all members of the University said, “I know Fr. Rourke will bring enthusiasm and experience to this important role on our campus, and will be a marvelous addition to our community.”

Open VISIONS Hosts Columnist and Author Continued from Page One

After initial speeches from the guests, the event turned to debate. Perlstein continued to assert that the new faces and new forces rising is an indicator of a big change to come. Douthat fired back that two recent major events, 9/11 and the Financial Crisis of 2008, were not even enough to shift the American political field left or right. Both speakers seemed to agree that the two party system is entrenched and cannot split. It is changing, but from within the parties. The event moved to a question

and answer session with the audience.

During the course of the discussion a number of controversial topics were discussed. Issues such as identity politics, media in the 21st century, cultural differences, everything shaping American politics and culture. Questions from audience members reflected the importance of the topics and ranged from how it would be possible to fix any problems with the “serious flaws in the U.S. Constitution” to questions about how truth can be found in an environment dominated by identity politics.

The event ended with an optimistic last word by

Douthat, who emphasized the importance of civil dialogue and finding common ground. He stated that the old history of news in America was that of “big city newspapers speaking with voices of authority” but has moved to a factionalized media with a certain amount of “fake news.”

He suggested that it is the nature of democracy to produce fake news and that this country has survived up until now in that environment. Ross Douthat and Rick Perlstein did agree on one thing: to show up and engage in a conversation at the Quick Center in front of an eager audience, getting closer to the truth in a rewarding civil manner.

Make Your Voice Heard!

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Opinion

THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2018

Opinion

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Editor Lexi Thimble » alexandra.thimble@student.fairfield.edu

The Government Shutdown Puts Trump First, Americans Second

just how qualified for her job she is, adeptly lead her new majority without a sign of wavering and eventually, with his approval rating plummeting and pressure mounting, Trump was forced to concede to her.

The government is only funded until Feb. 15, with negotiations about border security ongoing, so with The longest government shutdown in American history finally came to an end when, on Jan. 25, one shutdown just behind us and the spectre of another one looming before, there are many lessons to President Donald Trump agreed to Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s terms and signed a continuing resolution be earned, but one in particular stands out. that would fund the government for three weeks with the same budget as before the shutdown. During The first and most important lesson is that we must not allow the governthe shutdown, 800,000 federal workers went without pay for 35 days, many of them still expected to ment to be shutdown simply to accomplish a policy goal. The idea that wages and work during this time. In addition to the strife and suffering inflicted upon vital government services can be held hostage to accomplish a policy that can’t these hardworking public servants, the Congressional Budget Office estifind support in Congress is absurd. The continued operation of our government mates the economy to have permanently lost $3 million worth of growth is not a bargaining chip, it is a necessity. People who want to serve their country and many important government services were unavailable for more have faith that they would reliably be paid for doing so, and for 35 days they than a month. were not. During this time food and airplanes were not properly inspected, naHaving briefly reviewed the damage it caused, it might be tional parks were not maintained or cleaned, important data wasn’t collected, worth remembering what this shutdown was all about. It started back scientific progress was hampered, museums were closed, law enforcement in December 2018, when Congress was preparing to pass a continuing was less effective, federal courts were strained and food stamps nearly ran resolution which would fund the government at current levels up until out; this is only a partial list of the numerous short term and long term Feb.15. After making some noise about not signing unless Congress problems caused by this shutdown. All because the president threw a added funding for his proposed border wall, and even declaring on temper tantrum when Congress wouldn’t give him what he wantnational TV that he’d take responsibility for the shutdown that ed; that is unacceptable. would result, it looked like the president was going to sign the At this point no one can say for certain whether the govbill right up until the last minute, when a wave of criticism from ernment will shut down again on Feb. 15, but, if it does, Democrats far right commentators spurred him to suddenly refuse to sign must beat Trump the same way they did last time. If anyone gives the bill that the Senate had already passed by unanimous voice in to this abominable tactic, it would only legitimize it and make it vote. more common. If the president tries shutting down the government again, Even though Americans overwhelmingly disapthere can be no negotiation about policy until the government is reopened proved of the president, his wall and the shutdown that and federal workers have received backpay. This most recent shutdown in they rightly blamed him for, it seemed like there particular belies the cynical and selfish attitude Trump has towards the was no end in sight; the president didn’t care people and government he is charged with serving, and it should prove about the suffering he was causing and Demto anyone who didn’t already realize it that this president does not care ocrats could not give in or else the president about anyone but himself. Americans deserve a better leader, especially Pictured from left to right: Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and would shut down the government whenever those who have chosen to dedicate their lives to serving the public interPresident Donald Trump he didn’t get what he est, so all of us must demand better.

Creative Commons/Flickr and huffingtonpost.com wanted. Nonetheless, Pelosi, further proving

By Timothy Dillon Contributing Writer

R. Kelly and Michael Jackson: Difficult Stories That Must Be Told

By Kallan Hook Contributing Editor Since the rise of the #MeToo movement, countless accusations against famed musicians, producers and Hollywood royalty have been publicly shared. This movement has given a voice to the victims of sexual violence and harassment who were once silenced and condemned to live in the shadows of their abusers. Yet, in recent weeks, the Lifetime docu-series “Surviving R. Kelly” and Sundance film “Leaving Neverland” have sparked controversy regarding the integrity of the accusations and graphic depiction of said assault.

Lifetime recently premiered a three-night docuseries, “Surviving R. Kelly,” that gives voices to survivors of his sexual, mental and physical abuse that have been largely ignored for years. For decades, R&B singer R. Kelly has dodged allegations of sexual misconduct, and was acquitted by a jury for child pornography charges; however, the groundbreaking Lifetime series unites those in Kelly’s inner circle to reveal the traumatic experiences forced upon young African-American girls, while also giving a voice to his survivors.

While this docuseries is nonetheless graphic, it is necessary to give each victim a voice and shine a light on the true monster that the world has come to know as R. Kelly.

“Surviving R. Kelly” examines Kelly’s childhood history, including his own traumatic experiences involving sexual misconduct, while also closely dissecting his musical lyrics that connect to the allegations of his assault. Throughout each episode, numerous families and survivors share their stories of how Kelly traumatically impacted their lives, whether it be the controversy surrounding his marriage to underage music phenomenon Aaliyah, or specifically focusing on Michelle Kramer rescuing her daughter, Dominique Gardner, from Kelly’s sex cult. The series does not censor the victim’s voices or stories and grants them a platform to share their traumatic experiences in hopes of bringing forth justice that was once denied.

Editorial Board "Super Bowl was a 3-andOut" Alicia Phaneuf Editor-in-Chief Cara Lee Executive Editor Deanna Carbone Managing Editor

Centering around the same controversial topic of sexual for individuals to fully comprehend the abusive tendencies of the assault is the film "Leaving Neverland" that stunned audiences fol- monsters that live in our society.

Those individuals saying that these documentaries are lowing its premiere at the Sundance Film Festival. The film centers around Michael Jackson’s alleged sexual abuse of minors concern- too graphic and disturbing have the ability to turn the TV off, or ing two young men in his inner circle. Wade Robson and James switch to another channel. The victims, however, do not have the Safechuck echo each other’s story of the sexual assault that they ability to just simply turn off the emotions and suffered following the artistic mentorship of Jackson. Both men trauma that they faced. They highlight the sexual predation of Jackson that led to them bring preare not able to “change maturely introduced to kissing, pornography and being survivors of the channel” in their life sexual misconduct. and pretend as if nothing While “Leaving Neverland” received a standing ovation happened. As viewers, from audience members at the film festival, critics were quick to we may be temporarslash the film as a “public lynching” of Jackson’s legacy. Family and ily disturbed from these fans from around the world, almost immediately defended Jackson documentaries, yet, the by publicly condemning Robson and Safechuck as liars victims are permanently and calling the film immoral to bring up these accusascarred. All survivors detions following Jackson’s passing. serve a voice; they are not Both documentaries highlight the to be muted. disturbing reality and abusive tendencies of Hollywood royalty. Those affected by sexual assault remain in silence are forced to remain in silence often for an interminable period of time to the fear of not being believed. The women who survived R. Kelly are some of the strongest women I have listened to, not only for surviving R. Kelly, but for finding their voices to come forward and protect other women from the traumatic assault that they experienced. Furthermore, Robson and Safechuck aid in bringing awareness to the sexual assault that men face and are most often overlooked. While the recollections of the Pictured: R&B singer R. Kelly assault faced are nonetheless disturbing, they are necessary Creative Commons/Wikimedia Commons

Saying that Super Bowl LIII was uneventful when compared to last year’s is putting it mildly — and that’s not even considering the actual game, which even non sports fans realized was boring. I mean, last year the Philadelphia Eagles and New England Patriots were neck and neck, racing up, scoring touchdown after touchdown… this year the first touchdown wasn’t even made until the fourth quarter.

However, what was more disappointing to a number of viewers were the commercials (and the famed halftime show, which would have been made significantly better if they had even just played out the “Spongebob” scene). Last year, a number of companies created funny, amusing or impactful, but regardless beautifully created commercials to air during the time slots which, Forbes reports, cost $5 billion per 30 second interval. These ranged from the hilarious Travel Australia “it’s not a movie” advertisement starring Danny McBride and the dual Doritos’ and Mountain Dew commercials featuring a lip sync battle between Morgan Freeman and Peter Dinklage, to the serious com-

ments on the political climate made by T-Mobile in their commercial for equality.

This is a trend that has followed for years, and there are many people who only watch the Super Bowl for those unforgettable commercials. This year’s commercials did not keep with the trend. The most outrage heard was over the 30 second CBS trailer for their show, “NCIS” where they blatantly hinted that a fan-favorite character who died several seasons ago (just before many stopped watching) is actually alive. At the most excitement seemed to come over the new “Avengers: Endgame” and “Captain Marvel” trailers which aired.

I don’t know why companies decided to do this.

Yes, many of their commercials have been controversial, like the one on immigration Budweiser released in 2017, and caused some rage at the companies that create them.

However, those commercials spark debate and discussion that needs to happen, hopefully in a non-violent manner where people with differences in opinion can sit and discuss why they feel differently. By cutting out those con-

troversial commercials, not only are companies not taking a stand for what they believe (or at least making a truly memorable and amusing commercial that we can pull up on YouTube for years to come), they’re also wasting money. These companies should realize that people do not remember the commercials they paid $5 million to air during primetime Super Bowl hours. At all. The trailers were fun, but would have gotten just as many hits off-air, and shout out to Amazon’s Alexa commercial, which brought on a few chuckles.

But, otherwise, certain commercials were only memorable to specific groups of people, like the Bubly commercial targeting fans of Michael Buble or the Olay commercial drawing on the age-old “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” fans. As a news organization, The Mirror enjoyed the The Wall Street Journal commercial, which was both honest and breathtaking; but again, even we’ll admit it only targeted a certain niche. Limited, targeted audiences, but none that could really touch everyone or make everyone, regardless of their walk of life, truly remember them.

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2018

Opinion

Fox's 'Rent' Did Its Best Despite Serious Drawbacks

By Catherine Santangelo Contributing Writer

original people they were looking forward to seeing. Also, broadcasting the pre-recorded footage was FOX’s best option of showing their outside viewers what the performance would have been like if it truly was live. With Hunt being in a wheelchair, the performance probably would have been negatively impacted because it could not be performed as well as it was rehearsed. People said that, “Video screens showed the broadcast version, meanwhile, so people in the audience could see how it was intended to be,” meaning that the audience who came to experience “Rent: Live” in person still got to, but they also had the broadcast showing so they could see how it was supposed to be performed without Hunt confined to a wheelchair.

Another factor that seemed to upset many of the viewers was that, according to Romper, “some viewers had to work to find a way to watch, given the TV issues some experienced at the beginning of the show.” When viewers finally got access, they had both missed part of the beginning and found out it was not a completely live performance as promised. This is definitely frustrating, but it needs to be acknowledged that FOX was trying to utilize the best solution they had in order to deliver the performance, whether it was live or not. It is true that many viewers recognized that FOX was just trying to do the best they could to premiere a much-anticipated show. Romper reports that, “Some fans noted that while they'd prefer it if the show had truly been live (which is totally understandable), they weren't exactly hating how the show had turned out, even it was it was just a rehearsal.” As much as people wanted a truly live performance, FOX did the right thing of persevering through the obstacle of Hunt’s injury and still delivering a great show. Valentina, “RuPaul’s Drag Race” queen, who plays Angel, says it best, as reported by People, “But “Rent” has always been about community, resiliency and bouncing back, so the show must go on.”

Photo taken from Instagram.com/rentonfox

Many people took to social media, complaining about how “Rent: Live” was broadcasted. According to Romper, “Some wanted to know where the understudies were and why there wasn't one available for Hunt's part” and others, “just wanted to see what was going on onstage while everyone else was watching something that had been recorded before.” Though these are valid reasons to not be happy with having to watch pre-recorded material for a supposedly live show, they may not have had understudies because people look forward to seeing the original cast that is announced. If they put in a new actor at the last minute, people would be upset that they wouldn’t see the

The latest addition to the trend of live musical performances, “Rent: Live,” aired on FOX on Jan. 27, but it did not premiere as originally planned. Cast member Brennin Hunt, who plays Roger Davis, broke his foot during the show’s dress rehearsal the night before, which caused FOX to use pre-recorded material instead of a completely live performance in order to premiere the show as scheduled.

Many people were outraged by this decision, but FOX did the right thing in broadcasting the show anyways. They persevered through this unfortunate turn of events for one of their main cast members and delivered the long-awaited performance as best as they could for their viewers. FOX released a statement about Hunt’s injury, which was obtained by People, saying that, “‘Last night during a live performance,’” meaning the dress rehearsal the night before the actual performance, “‘of FOX’s production of RENT, one of the actors, Brennin Hunt, was injured...‘But in the spirit of RENT, everyone – producers and cast, original and current — is dedicated to ensuring that tonight’s broadcast must, and will, go on.’” This led to FOX deciding to use pre-recorded footage from the dress rehearsal for part of the broadcast, but luckily the finale was live.

Meanwhile, reported by People, “those sitting in the television studio in Los Angeles did get a performance — which, according to Twitter video, featured Hunt in a wheelchair, his foot elevated.” Many outside viewers were outraged with this decision to use pre-recorded material. Though this seems like FOX network was cheating its audiences out of seeing the live performance that they were promised, at least the network broadcasted something similar to what was originally planned. They could have delayed the premiere until Hunt was healed, but that Pictured: The cast of Fox's "Rent: Live" would have made people even more upset.

Letter to the

Venezuela Doesn't Need America's Ego

By Ali Haidar Contributing Writer In the United States of America’s long, twisted history of toppling foreign regimes, one would never imagine that America’s support for a coup would be presented in under 280 characters. President Donald J. Trump continued his pattern of using Twitter to convey important changes in policy, when, on Jan. 23, he tweeted that the “citizens of Venezuela have suffered too long,” under the Maduro regime.

This tweet comes at a time when Venezuela’s economy is crumbling due to a variety of factors, including a drop in oil prices and devastating U.S. sanctions against the country. According to the International Monetary Fund, Venezuela’s GDP has decreased in its third-consecutive year, and dropped around 18 percent in 2018. The woes of Venezuela do not end at economic hardship, but rather include its contested elections that took place in May 2018. Venezuela's current President, Nicolas Maduro, who took power in April 2013 after the death of his predecessor, Hugo Chavez, has been accused of hindering free elections as a large number of candidates were barred from running in 2018.

The opposition-controlled National Assembly stated that Maduro’s second term is illegitimate and called to declare the presidency vacant. However, the country’s Supreme Court ruled that such actions were unconstitutional. Despite the court’s rul-

ing, Juan Guiado, leader of the opposition, declared himself as interim president.

While I feel for the thousands of Venezuelans who have fled their country due to the failing economy, and while I abhor Maduro’s tyranny, the President’s push for a coup is a violation of international law. As aforementioned, Venezuela is in this situation due a number of factors, but it must be stressed that the U.S.’s sanctions have had a direct impact on the economy and the lives of innocent Venezuelans.

In 2018, after Maduro’s violent crackdown on protesters, the Trump Administration restricted trade in Venezuelan bonds, which would keep the country out of credit markets. In 2018, the administration took aim at Venezuela's gold sales, but the recent announcement of sanctioning Venezuela's oil company, PDVSA, is a major escalation. According to a United Nations report published on Aug. 3, 2018, the effects of these sanctions have contributed to many deaths as Venezuela lacks access to medicines such as insulin and antiretroviral drugs. If the United States truly cared about Venezuelans, then it would remove these regressive sanctions.

Are we also supposed believe that President Trump and his administration truly care about the plight of Venezuelans? The President is incapable of helping his own citizens, much less the citizens of a different country. According to a study by the American Journal of Public Health, there are around 45,000 annual deaths that are associated with the lack of health insurance.

A report published in 2017 found evidence of a resurgence of third-world diseases in rural Alabama.

Can the President truly help others while not being able to help his own?

And does Trump truly want to help?

As history has shown, regime changes committed by the U.S. have always had nefarious intentions. This seems to be the case with the recent calls to oust Maduro as John Bolton, a former architect of the Iraq War, and the President’s current National Security advisor, has stated that a regime change in Venezuela would be great for “American business.”

Once again, it seems that America is not too far off from becoming entrenched in a never-ending conflict due to corporate interests and pure hubris.

Editor In last week’s edition of the Mirror, there were blatant inaccuracies which warrant attention and correction. In an opinion piece titled “Covington Confrontation Highlights Our Country’s Current Divisiveness,” the author demonizes the students from Covington Catholic, while mischaracterizing a national event. While some of the fault must fall on the author, The Mirror’s editor(s) bears equal responsibility. Granted, the piece was published under the opinion section of the paper, but, as further explained below, this section should also be edited for factual misrepresentations.

What were these inaccuracies? First the nuanced ones - The event that occured in Washington D.C. on January 18 was the annual March for Life. Hundreds of thousands of children, students, adults, clergy, and religious lined the streets of D.C. to peacefully advocate for the lives of the unborn babies, the most vulnerable people of our society. This is a Pro-Life march, not “ a march protesting a woman’s right to choose what they do with their bodies.” The author further argues, that we should “make America educated again.” Any educated person knows that a human being does not have 46 chromosomes, four legs, and four arms, thus it is not “their body.”

While the aforementioned paragraph points out inaccuracies, they are surely within the margins of an opinion section. The following inaccuracy or blatant falsehood should not be provided the same leeway. A full paragraph of the article is devoted to critiquing the Covington Catholic Boys for chanting “build the wall.” This never happened. A 2 hour video has surfaced, covering the entire event. I implore any readers of this article to watch it. It shows the confrontation with the Black Hebrew Israelites up to Nathan Phillips walking directly up to the boys. Nowhere in these two hours of video did anyone chant “build the wall.”

With the national limelight on “fake-news,” The Mirror should take added efforts to prevent similar articles of this nature in the future. If the Mirror deems that this piece is appropriate, it sets a dangerous precedent. Hopefully, the newly partisan partisan paper will stand up for truth and not blindly act as a platform for leftist lies.

Best,

James Lipko, '20

Editor's Note: Reports and videos dispute whether or not the students from Covington Catholic High School chanted 'build the wall' or 'build that wall' at the Jan. 18 March for Life / Indigenous People's March. We hyperlink all facts to credible sources.

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arts, entertainment, features

Editor Gracianne Eldrenkamp gracianne.eldrenkamp@student.fairfield.edu

Gravity & Other Myths Has A High-Flying Performance

Julia Crews/TheMirror

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2019

'A Simple Space' Is Full of Exciting Acrobatics ea Cr

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en What happens when you leave a Gravity & Other Myths made the fascinating as huCl ipA bunch of acrobats alone in an empty morous and participatory as possible, getting the audience rt room? They make their own play- involved when they could. Midway through the show, the audiground. After their show on Thursday, ence members were given plastic balls and encouraged to throw Jan. 3 in the Leslie C. Quick, Jr. Recre- them on stage at the performers, who were attempting to hold ation Complex, entitled “A Simple handstands.

Space,” the acrobatic group GravAnother instance of audience participation occurred when ity & Other Myths left audience audience members were pulled onstage in order for acrobat members questioning gravity.

Ashleigh Pearce to balance on their outstretched palms Describing their style in the show while holding half of her weight on a platform with raised notes as “a terrifying and liberating way metal bars that had plate-like rests on top of them. to perform,” the show “A Simple Space” aims In turn with their theme of breaking down barto break down barriers between perform- riers between the audience and the troupe, performers and the audience. The group formed ers were lined up in the hallway as the audience left in 2013, and since then, Gravity & Other the RecPlex, shaking hands and thanking attendees Myths has put on hundreds of shows and face to face. It was a refreshing, fun, and exciting claims that “the games are still growing.” In night that left me in awe of what the human body can do. plain t-shirts and shorts instead of Gravity & Other Myths will be performing “A Simple Space” on Feb. 9-24 at the New elaborate costumes and a playful con- Victory Theater in New York. stitution on stage, members of Gravity & Other Myths constantly remind the audience that humans — real humans rather than distant circus performers who hold their composure behind their layers of makeup — are capable of incredible things.

The performance began with a chaotic sequence to music in which performers would yell, “Falling!” and proceed to fall before other members were there to catch them. The stakes were raised when they began falling from steeper heights: another performer’s shoulders, for example. They were, miraculously, always caught by their castmates.

With an almost childlike, “look what I can do!” attitude, Gravity & Other Myths delivers amazing feats with smiles and nerves written on their faces. The performers aren’t afraid to show when a trick is difficult, nor do they hold back when interacting with each other and releasing (probably exaggerated) sighs of relief after finishing a dangerous trick. From the show notes of the program, the group communicates, “If you watch closely you will find an honest sort of narrative in our grunts, trembles, failures and accomplishments”. But you also witness JuliaCrews/TheMirror the glee, the invigorated smiles whenever performers triumph, which contributes to the overall positive mood of the show.

Gravity & Other Myths performing at the Rec Plex.

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Stylish Stag: Jessica Miele

By Sabrina Musto Fashion Columnist February’s Stylish Stag is no stranger to the fashion world. Jessica Miele ‘20 is a communication major with minors in graphic design and marketing. She is currently self-employed in social media and brand strategy and runs her own fashion blog, JessicaMiele.com. Jessica has amazing style, and was happy to share all about her favorite styles with me!

How did you decide on this outfit today, and how to you generally decide on an outfit?

Since faux fur is such a huge CreativeCommons/OpenClipArt trend right now, I chose to incorporate that into my outfit today. I got this jacket from Anthropologie and I wanted to make it my statement piece for the day! Usually I try to find one piece and center my outfit around that.

What is your favorite store to shop in and why?

Madewell is by far my favorite store to shop at. I love how simple all their pieces are and I’m obsessed with their jeans.

What is your favorite accessory and why?

My favorite accessory is my Daniel Wellington watch. I don’t usually wear a lot of jewelry, and if I do it needs to be something minimalistic. I love how my DW watch is so simple and also a really practical for everyday use.

Describe your fashion aesthetic in two words.

Minimalistic and trendy!

Tell me a trend you’re happy is back in style and why?

Bootcut jeans, definitely. I love wearing them over short booties, they’re so cute!

What is your favorite season to dress for and why?

Fall! I like that it’s not too cold and not too hot. I find that in the summer and the winter I’m limited to certain pieces based on the weather. In the fall I don’t have to deal with that.

Lastly, do you have a style icon and why?

My style icon is definitely Julia Engel. I don’t exactly dress like her now, but her style is how I want to dress when I’m like late 20s to 30s with a cool job and living on my own!

She’s so classy and her outfits are never too over the top.

Photo taken from Instagram/Juliahengel

Fashion icon Julia Engel is Miele's inspo.

Photo Contributed By Jessica Miele

Miele in her Anthropologie fur coat

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2019

Tyler Finally Gives an 'A' Movie Review

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By Tyler Zikias Contributing Writer

The “How to Train Your Dragon” animated films serve as an adaptation of the series of books by the same name written by Cressida Cowell. Regardless of loyalty to their source material, these films have made their own name for themselves amidst the vast variety of animated films released. The original “How to Train Your Dragon” film, released in 2010, I saw as a pretty paint-by-numbers story told in an epic fashion. The bond shared by the protagonist, Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), and his Dragon friend, Toothless, provides an emotional heft to the first film that makes it impossible not to love these two characters.

Their journey continued in “How to Train Your Dragon 2” in 2014, which I may like even more than the first. The characters learn so much more about their heritage and past, providing an engaging and thrilling story throughout its runtime. Not to mention, the animation is stellar in each entry of the franchise. Now, animated films packed a major punch last year with critical hits like, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” “Incredibles 2” and “Isle of Dogs.” This artistic medium is definitely in the forefront of audience’s eyes more than ever, especially with titles like, “The Lego Movie: The Second Part,” “Frozen 2” and

“Toy Story 4,” set to hit theaters in 2019. “How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World” should absolutely be placed at the top of anyone’s must see list of 2019 because of its sheer scope and powerful emotional climax.

Before I dive into the story, it is impossible to talk about this movie and not mention how stunning the animation is. It’s incredible to see how the animation has improved since the first film. Landscapes are big and generated with such beauty that it looks real.

There were quite a few moments during my viewing experience where I was convinced that it wasn’t animated. The rendering of every character’s face and features is done with so much care, from the peach fuzz on Snotlout’s (Jonah Hill) lip, to the individual ridges along Toothless’ back. Scenes with dragons flying against a landscape are grand and jaw dropping. This should definitely be seen as a landmark for animation as I don’t think that computer generated environments and character details have ever looked so good on the big screen before.

This time around, Hiccup and his friends continue their mission to rescue dragons from captivity, until they’re tracked by a dragon hunter, Grimmel (F. Murray Abraham).

The vikings must work together to escape Grimmel and find a new homeland for themselves and the dragons to coexist. Hiccup must come to terms with his current position as chief after the events of “How to Train Your Dragon 2,” while Toothless forms a special bond with another dragon of his species, nicknamed Light Fury. The film is really about growing up and making choices for yourself while still making time for the ones you care about.

Hiccup shines as the protagonist in the final chapter of this trilogy. His interactions with Toothless are well realized and never forced. The moments they share are natural and filled with heart. Some of the more moving moments of their relationship are built through visual callbacks to the first two films, only strengthening how this film fits into the trilogy.

Hiccup’s relationship with fellow viking, Astrid (America Ferrera), is also more fleshed out in this entry. She understands Hiccup’s stressful situation as chief, but is also always there to have his back. It’s a realistic development of their bond from the first two films and their story is closed with perfection.

The villain Grimmel is completely nerve racking. From his first scene, the film shows that this guy is bad news and this feeling of uneasiness follows him throughout the rest of the film. He is always one step ahead of everyone and his pursuit of the “thrill of the hunt” makes his scenes even more scary. His presence brings a sense of doubt to the survival of the protagonists. No one felt safe while Grimmel was on screen. However, the way Grimmel’s story ends is my one negative for this film. The climax reaches such emotional highs and beautiful animated action sequences, but it all ends with a fizzle. Nothing about the peak of the climax felt grand like everything else. I wish the film has played out this moment a little bit more and this film would’ve have nearly gotten a perfect score.

Aside from the issue with the climax, Grimmel’s conclusion and a few very minor pacing issues, “How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World” proves to be a pitch perfect conclusion to an emotionally poignant trilogy. The film continuously hits you with tear jerking moments in the last 10 minutes, though it never feel like they’re trying to make you cry. The character’s have a natural progression that leads them into moments where they have to make difficult decisions. These decisions are always met with weight and purpose rather than thrown away. The last 10 minutes of this movie are amazing and I can’t sing the movie’s praises enough. If you haven’t seen the “How to Train Your Dragon” films, you absolutely need to add them to your watchlist. This trilogy stands atop most other animated series, rivaled only by “Toy Story” in building emotion and compassion for every character on screen. One other recommendation I need to make is how you see this movie. You absolutely NEED to see this movie in 3D. Its animation and style begs for it to be seen in this format. This film was a beautiful send off for a great trilogy that you should absolutely check out when it hits theaters on Feb. 22.

Grade: A

'Form/Idea/Exploration' Comes to Lukacs Gallery

By Brandon Robles Contributing Writer Walking into the basement of Loyola Hall, I often forget that, right near the the Department of Public Safety office, there are art studios for exhibits and classes. The last time I had been to the Lukacs Gallery was for the “Introduction to 2D Design” exhibit back in October, so I was eager to see what was inside on this trip. What I found was largely different from what had been shown previously, and to me, it was a much more interesting visage.

Digital Photography (SA 134) presented Loyola’s new exhibit, “Form/Idea/Exploration.” As opposed to abstract shapes, it uses what it says in the class name: photos. Photos of people and objects line the walls. I found myself surprised that were no tables to place more photos on, though I have no qualms against the decision. Plenty of space

Photographs in the Lukacs Gallery.

meant people could put more focus on each piece of art instead of rushing to look everywhere at once. The photos themselves varied in subject, from people performing actions like painting nails and taking photos to objects we can encounter in our daily routines, like a calculator.

From what can be seen from these photos as well as the exhibit’s name, it can be guessed that the exhibit’s photos focus on what the subjects can present them as. One example would be the photo of a calculator. Had it been a photo of a calculator as if it were for sale, then we would skip over it unless we needed it. A regular photo would be shot in a bright environment to show us what the object is in general. In this exhibit, the calculator has the middle portion of buttons on its body focused on as it is viewed from the side and sunlight shines on it from the background. It’s through the presentation of the calculator that the photo is made appealing and the idea can be explored. It’s almost as if we were scrolling through pictures on Instagram or Twitter; only noticing the ones that appeal to our eyes instead of the more plain looking ones. Then again, there could be more than meets the eye in even these photos.

We each look at and understand a photo on display in different ways, just like the calBrandonRobles/TheMirror culator. The form of the photo is where the exploration behind it comes into play. While the image is in front of our faces, we can’t help but

wonder about its context. Obvious thoughts head towards “What effects did they use?” or “Who took this photo?”, but these thoughts shift into the more provoking questions like “What does this photo mean?” and “Does anything remind me of this photo?”, which make us think about aspects of our lives that we take for granted rather than its appearance. If this is the right idea that the photographers were going for, then I applaud their skills and efforts in creating such feelings.

The exhibit will be open from Jan. 22 to Feb. 8.

BrandonRobles/TheMirror

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2019

Lunar New Year Celebration Takes Place in BCC

By Molly Lamendola Contributing Writer

The event ended with the welcoming of the New Year baby, an adorable young child dressed in traditional garb who presented each attendee with a lucky pig decorated envelope. Hugs, kisses and goodbyes came as the celebration arrived at a close.

It is celebrations and traditions like this that make you appreciate the diversity Fairfield has to offer. Though many of us may celebrate our New Year in the same way, at the end of December with champagne, good tidings and the reveling chorus Auld Lang Syne, there are opportunities at every corner to appreciate celebrations and take a step into their welcoming atmosphere.

Molly Lamendola/TheMirror CreativeCommons/OpenClipArt Traditional dragon dance performed by professional group in BCC.

The bright red lanterns decorating the stairwell on the walk down to the Lower Level of the John A. Barone Campus Center brought light and good luck to the celebration saying goodbye to the year of the dog and hello to the year of the pig at the Chinese Lunar New Year Celebration on Feb. 1.

The festivities began with a welcoming, as Xinyi Chen, a graduate student at the Charles F. Dolan School of Business, introduced the event sponsors as both the Asian Students Association and the Chinese Graduate Students Association. She directed us toward the food: spring rolls, dumplings, fish and various other traditional goodies. As people talked and shared plans for their actual Chinese New Year celebrations for the coming Tuesday, Feb. 5, this evening just acted as a way to connect with the fellow celebrators Fairfield University had to offer.

Chen ended her opening as a flurry of color suddenly enveloped the space. A group of young dancers ran onto the floor dressed in blue, purple and yellow silks, sticks held in hand as the body of a red and gold dragon danced overhead, the colors symbolizing the good luck they wish for the coming year. The dragon had big, wide eyes and a mouth opened in spirit. It’s body wrapping viewer’s into its magic as it traveled along the room.

The performance continued as dancers flew across the stage in different acts. Swords swung and whips cracked, a painter delicately painted a scene on stage as people of differing ages dressed in white moved their limbs gracefully across the air and more dragons with large blinking eyes came to welcome in the New Year.

CreativeCommons/OpenClipArt

Fyre Festival documentaries hit hulu and netflix

By Sheila McCombs Contributing Writer Wealth. Models. Music. A beach paradise.

Fraud. This month, America’s media fascination with the infamous “Fyre Festival” of 2017 was brought back into public interest due to the release of two new documentaries on the subject. For some background, the Fyre festival was a music festival planned to occur on April 28, 2017. The festival was supposed to raise public interest in a talent booking app, called Fyre, which was described as the tinder of booking celebrity appearances. The festival was marketed as a luxury vacation in the Bahamas with an amazing music festival added in; however, when the “festival” occurred, it became a massive disaster.

On Jan. 12, Hulu released a documentary titled “Fyre Fraud” and, six days later on Jan. 18, Netflix released a documentary titled “Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened.” Both of these movies have gained massive public and media attention, which was what convinced me to watch them in the first place. I couldn’t go through the day without someone mentioning the docs to me, excitedly asking: “Have you seen the Fyre festival thing yet?” Now, even as someone who loves a good documentary, I was slightly uninterested before I watched these two as the Fyre festival story didn’t really fascinate me as it happened, and I didn’t believe these would change that disinterest. I was shocked by how interested I became with both documentaries and the narrative they told.

The story they tell is an obviously intricate one due to the sheer number of factors that went into the failure of the festival and the varying accounts received from different people, including the media company that ran the marketing for the event, the people who attended the festival and the people in charge of the event planning. Both documentaries have great interviews, which is part of

what makes them so fascinating. The facts are that the festival was planned by entrepreneur Billy McFarland and rapper Ja Rule. According to the documentaries, the festival failed due to many things, not limited to a lack of funds and the festival not delivering on marketing claims.

The marketing campaign promised a beautiful beach paradise and luxury accommodations in beautiful tents and villas. What was delivered was FEMA hurricane tents with no air conditioning and not enough room for all of the guests. When the festival date arrived, the conditions and backlash became so bad that the festival was called off entirely one day into what was supposed to be a three-day festival.

After taking in both the Netflix and Hulu versions of the events that happened before, during and after the festival, I have to say that I don’t know which I liked more. Both documentaries have different takes on the events as Hulu interviews Billy McFarland, who gives his version of why the festival went wrong and Netflix’s version is produced by Jerry Media, a media company hired to run the marketing for the event. This colors the story that the movies tell. I thought the Netflix version seemed sincere until I saw the Hulu one and it made me question what I originally thought was true.

Both get about 4 stars from me and are super interesting to discuss and watch. People who followed the story of the festival on the news should watch these movies because it goes into the details of what went into the planning of the festival and how it became such a disaster.

In any case, I recommend you watch both for yourself and decide which one you think is more honest.

THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2019

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Inkwell Spotlight Conf8ssions of a Princess

By Diandre Clarke Contributing Writer at the Inkwell Her expectations met unrealistic characteristics, flagging her purest thoughts as runaway fantasies She expected her first love to give her nothing but tender kisses Instead he ruptures her lips so that the thought of a kiss made her flinch She expected her best friend to hold the secrets of her past Instead he allowed her to relive the emotional and physical trauma with one visit to the E.R. She expected her family to be the walls which barricaded her from the predators Instead she had to remind him that he was her uncle and his hands didn’t belong there She expected her lover to carry through with their engagement Instead she looked over to see that same lover married into her family tree by deceit She expected her past to stay where it belong and not conquer her stable mind Instead she was diagnosed with PTSD and prescribed medication for BD, the pathway was being paved for dependent addiction and a craving for TLC She expected her married manager to stay a bay Instead he whispered to her lips the secrets of infidelity She expected to see sentimental “I Love You” balloons floating towards the ceiling of her room. Each balloon pumped with hope so as they deflated over time that hope would diffuse in to her life.

Instead she saw the illusive ropes hanging from the ceiling, the same ones her sibling strung up before advising her to use them...

She expected the guy that revitalized her optimism in love, to confess nothing but his adoration for the relationship Instead he confesses to her raw and uncut: You don’t deserve love Because what better way to address an open wound than to pour vodka all over it Because what better way to wake up a dreaming depressed Princess, than to remind her that she is alive because only so can those words bore through her skin like a steak knife.

Princess 's expectations were unrealistic. Her name, Princess, derived from her unrealistic sense of entitlement.

But her Queen constantly reminded her that she was created as a ‘perfect flaw’ and that it was as real as a fantasy could get.

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Ariana Grande Already Dropping Hits in 2019

By Alle Scanlon Vine Assistant Editor

Ariana Grande dropped her new single “7 rings,” “7 rings” begins with an immediately, recognizable to the excitement of fans everywhere, on Friday, Jan. 18. melody; Grande created her own version of the tune that “7 rings” is the third track that has been released from is found in the song “My Favorite Things,” originally perGrande’s upcoming formed by Julie Andrews in album “thank u, next,” “The Sound of Music”. Grande following the release of sings about her favorite things: her hit single “thank u, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s and botnext” and the release tles of bubbles/Girls with tatof her track “imagine.” toos who like getting in trouble/ On Jan. 25, Grande Lashes and diamonds, ATM took to Instagram to machines/Buy myself all of my reveal that her album favorite things.” Grande sticks “thank u, next” is set to to her mottos of self-love and release on Feb. 8. independence in “7 rings” that I wasn’t sure if are also evident in her song, anything could top “thank u, next.”

Grande’s song, “thank “7 rings” also serves as a u, next.” In “thank u, Instagram/Arianagrande tribute to Grande’s best friends. next,” Grande emAfter publicly calling off her braces all of her past Ariana Grande and friends in "7 rings" music video. engagement with comedian relationships and finds Pete Davidson, Grande spontasomething positive to neously purchased seven diatake away from all of mond rings for her and six of them, while celebrather close friends. Grande refering her own strength ences this in the song: “I’d rather moving forward. spoil all my friends with my Not to mention, it’s riches/Think retail therapy my extremely catchy. new addiction.” Her six friends The music video is are also front and center in the Grande’s play off of music video, in addition to their several different clasfeatures in the “thank u, next” sic movies, including music video.

“Mean Girls,” “Bring It Grande also got creative by On,” “13 Going On 30” including a fast-paced rap toand “Legally Blonde,” ward the end of the song, which and it even includes is not usually found in music she teasers for “7 rings.” has produced. Her creativity is During the video’s “Lesetting her apart from all other gally Blonde” snippet, artists and her message has Grande’s license plate definitely been heard. Grande reads “7 RINGS,” and clearly cannot be stopped and the video begins with has been releasing hit after hit for the opening beat to “7 rings.” Thankfully, “7 rings” was just the past two years; hopefully it continues. “7 rings” defias good as “thank u, next,” and includes its own creative nitely did not disappoint, seeing as it embodies girl power, twists as well. friendship and independence.

W i l d Fr i e n d s F o o d s : A N e w Wa y o f E n j o y i n g N u t B u t t e r

By Sabrina Trueheart Copy Editor That sweet tooth many of us get after eating a salty, savory dinner is something that is hard to fight. For as long as I can remember, my parents reached for Dove dark chocolate or Hershey’s Kisses after dinner, because that sweet bite after Cre ativ a savory meal is heavenly. Personally, I have eC om mo always reached for a mini Reese’s peanut ns/ Op butter cup after dinner, as peanut butter and enC lipA chocolate is one of my favorite food combinart tions. Over the holidays, I devoured any leftover dessert item I could find in the fridge, but felt guilty afterwards because I desired a healthier alternative to dessert. My mother made a very smart buy for me this holiday season, as I unwrapped what looked like an ordinary peanut butter-type spread. It was not. It was Wild Friends Chocolate Coconut Peanut Butter, which quickly made its way into the top 10 best foods I have ever eaten.

This chocolatey, peanut buttery goodness with a hint of coconut was what I had been missing out on. All three of my favorite flavors combined in a healthy, vegan spread that contained only 5 grams of sugar and a substantial 6 grams of protein per serving.

Nothing is lost, only gained when eating this delicious and nutritious peanut spread. With a minimal amount of sugar per 2 tablespoons and a decent amount of protein, I can have as much as I want without having to feel guilty afterwards.

When I find a company I love, I do my research. Wild Friends Foods was founded in 2011 by two college students named Keeley and Erika. After launching their company, they dedicated their lives to creating “friendly” foods that truly embody the term “clean eating.” Wild Friends nut butter spreads are unique to the rest of the nut butter world because of one simple change in the ingredients: the exclusion of palm oil.

Palm oil is one of the main ingredients found on almost every nut butter spread ingredient list and, in recent years, it has been a hot and controversial topic as studies begin to show the health effects and environmental damage the use of palm oil causes. Palm oil is 50 percent saturated, and although it is not as saturated as other oils and butters, it is not necessarily the healthiest oil to have. However, the larger concern with palm oil is how it is extracted. Oil palms are often grown in rainforests, leading to deforestation when

producers come in and clear the areas looking to extract palm oil from the trees. Deforestation releases carbon into the atmosphere, which contributes to global warming.

Besides the exclusion of palm oil in their nut butter, Wild Friends takes ordinary nut butter and turns it into something extraordinary. Their diverse list of flavors, such as the chocolate coconut peanut butter I fell in love with, goes on as you scroll down the products page on their website. Flavors as original as chocolate pumpkin spice, vanilla espresso and even sugar cookie (yes, it’s true) can be purchased through their website.

Most of these flavors can also be purchased through Amazon.

For the last month, I have been wondering how I got so lucky. I found an environmentally-friendly version of one of my favorite foods, a less sugary alternative to Reese’s peanut butter cups after dinner and yet another new company that I can spend months talking about and obsessing over. From their deliciously natural nut butter to their adorable logo and great marketing, Keeley and Erika have the right idea. It’s going to take a lot to top this Christmas gift.

Photo taken from Wild_Friends instagram

One of the many flavored peanut butters made by Wild Friends.

Coffee Break

Page 12

THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2019

COFFEE BREAK Editor: Julia Crews julia.crews@student.fairfield.edu

How the Signs Handle the Cold Before the polar vortex turned, we came up with these horoscopes for the signs for dealing with the cold.

Luckily, we live in New England, so we’re sure you’ll need to reference them sooner or later.

Disclaimer: The Coffee Break Team knows little to nothing about astrology and has not been certified by the Society of Astrologists to provide horoscopes.

Aries

Scorpio

They are not handling it. “I’m cold and then there’s just more cold” - my Aries

Scorpio is being as extra as ever, complaining every other second

friend. Pray for their poor fire-sign lives.

as if everybody else isn’t also suffering through the cold weather.

Taurus

Sagittarius

A cold Taurus just wants hugs. Give them hugs, please. They need you.

Sagittarius thrives in cold weather. Or rather, under a mountain

Gemini

of blankets with their laptop balanced on their chest, scrolling

One side of Gemini is very cold, but their alternate personality is as hot as ever.

through Tumblr and falling down YouTube holes. This is their

Cancer

happy place.

Handling it surprisingly well, but winter is an emotional time for Cancers. Treat

Capricorn

your Cancer friend to some hot chocolate and a “New Girl” marathon.

One side of Gemini is very cold, but their alternate personality is

Leo

as hot as ever.

Leo is a mess. The sign of the sun, they are farthest away from their source of inter-

Aquarius

nal energy, and therefore more likely to cry when they have to go outside. The only

Aquarius hasn’t noticed a difference in temperature; it is in fact,

way you’ll be seeing your Leo friends is if you go to their room yourself. They aren’t

comfortable for them. It is Aquarius season, after all. Their souls

leaving that warm bubble unless it’s for class, maybe not even then...

are so cold that this is the only time of the year during which they

Virgo

can achieve true homeostasis. Fear them, for they are at their

Virgo is that one friend who wears three sweaters, a coat, two scarves, gloves and a

most powerful.

hat so big that it almost covers their entire face. Oh, and long underwear under all of

Pisces

that. They have no chill when it comes to this chill.

Um, Pisces froze and won’t thaw out until Pisces season begins.

RIP.

Coffee Break Graveyard: Puzzle Together the ‘Mirror Mood’ Guest Editors: Sabina Dirienzo & Cara Lee

Obituary for My Grades Hint: Already failing

A Spell for Reviving Your

Letter Home to Mom, but the

Grades

Margins are an Acronym for

Last ingredient:

Pain and Suffering

Mirror Staff Quotes Week One: “ I know we all wanna die, but be kind to yourself!” “No!”

Human sacrifice Sabina, Chief Copy Editor:

A classified ad for hiring Sabina*

How the Horoscopes Deal With Climate Change

“I said that you couldn’t pay me to work

Mirror Staff Quotes Week One: “*incoherent yelling*”

for The Mirror. And now I get paid to work here.”

* If you’re interested in hiring Sabina, you can reach her at sabina.dirienzo@student. fairfield.edu

Things We Said During the State of the Union

A blank page with a loading sign

Mirror Staff Quotes Week One: “We’re all like screaming nerds”

THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 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, January 31st -Men's Basketball lost at Manhattan, 62-49 Friday, February 1st -Men's Tennis lost to Fordham, 7-0 -Women's Basketball lost to Manhattan, 47-41 Saturday, February 2nd Photo Contributed by Sports Information Desk

-Men's Basketball defeated Marist, 57-52 Sunday, February 3rd -Women's Basketball lost to Monmouth, 73-63

On Feb. 5, the Fairfield University Women’s Lacrosse team received the top spot in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Preseason Poll after being voted by the league’s nine head coaches, which was announced by the conference office. They collected five of the nine first-place votes for the first time since 2011. In total, the team collected 75 points in the poll with Marist College following close behind in second-place with 67 points. To round out the top four, Canisius College came in third place as Monmouth University came in fourth. Individually, three Stags, defenders Megan Beach ‘19 and Erin Mammele ‘19 and attacker Kathleen Hulseman ‘19, earned Preseason All-MAAC honors. The Fairfield Women’s Lacrosse team opens up their season on Saturday, Feb. 9 at the College of Holy Cross.

Monday, February 4th -Men's Basketball lost to Siena, 61-50

Upcoming This Week:

Thursday, February 7th

-Women's Basketball vs. Canisius,

Photo Contributed by Sports Information Desk

Fairfield University Athletics announced on Feb. 5 that the Fairfield Women’s Basketball contest at Alumni Hall against Niagara University on Saturday, Feb. 9 will be featured on the National Collegiate Athletic Association Women’s Basketball Facebook page. The live broadcast for Saturday’s game will be produced by the Stags Sports Network and will stream for free on Facebook. This Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference matchup tips off at the George Bisacca Court at Alumni Hall at 5 p.m. as the Stags look to grab their sixth win of the season in front of the home crowd.

7 p.m.

Saturday, February 9th -Men's Basketball vs. Monmouth, 1 p.m.

-Women's Basketball vs. Niagara, 5 p.m.

-Women's Lacrosse at Holy Cross, 12 p.m.

-Women's Tennis at Bryant, 7 p.m.

In this week's issue...

- Six Rings Now for the Former Sixth-Rounder Brady (Page 14)

- Sit-Down With First-Year Lou-Lopez Senechal (Page15) - Saints Stop Stags in Albany, 61-50 (Page 15)

- Foley Sets Career-High As Stags Fall to Monmouth (Page 16)

Sports

Page 14

THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2019

Six Rings for the Former Sixth-Rounder Brady

Photos from by Pittsburgh-Post Gazette (left) and USA Today (right) Head coach Bill Belichick (left) celebrated post-game and is now the oldest head coach to ever hoist the Lombardi trophy as quarterback Tom Brady (right) is the oldest quarterback to win a Super Bowl as well.

By Patrick Getz Co-Sports Editor In a season of such high-scoring offenses, Super Bowl LIII turned out to be a defensive showdown where the New England Patriots won 13-3 over the Los Angeles Rams in what was the lowest scoring Super Bowl ever. This win now pushes quarterback Tom Brady ahead of Hall of Fame defensive lineman Charles Haley for most Super Bowl wins (6) and head coach Bill Belichick is now the oldest head coach to take home the Lombardi trophy at 66-years-old. Belichick stifled Ram head coach Sean McVay’s offense to only three points as the Rams did not have a single play in red zone.

After two weeks of preparation, everyone expected a shootout between two such innovative coaches. However, there were 14 punts between the Rams and Patriots with only one touchdown scored throughout the game. It was only a matter of time before Brady’s classic, methodical drive tired out the Rams defense physically, mentally and psychologically. The Los Angeles defense held up until midway through the fourth quarter when Brady led the Patriots on a five-play, 69 yard drive. Brady set up the touchdown with a perfectly thrown ball to tight end Rob Gronkowski in between two defenders for 29 yards. Rookie running back Sony Michel capped off the drive with a two-yard touchdown run.

Now, it was time for third-year starter and former number one overall pick Jared Goff to answer with a score of his own. After traveling 48 yards, Goff made an ill-advised throw towards the end zone which Patriots cornerback Stephen Gilmore intercepted, sealing the victory for New England.

The Patriots feasted on the lack of aggressiveness by Goff, and this is not the first time we have seen the ‘deer-in-headlights’ look from Goff in the playoffs. When the Rams lost 26-13 to the Atlanta Falcons in the Wild Card Round last year, the former University of California quarterback did not

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

Favorite ad from the Super If you could eat one food every day for the rest of your Bowl? life what would it be?

Cara Lee Executive Editor

Dan Montgomery, Patrick Getz, Chris LaZazzera and Cara Lee Will Lonzo Ball ever be an All-Star?

Grape or O'Malley's?

Without a doubt, NFL Player One.

Comes down to the biggest charcaters on each team... Dennis Rodman>Gronk.

Maybe in China he would be but not in the NBA.

O'Malley's by a long shot.

I'd have to say Italian food, more specifically chicken parm.

I'd definitely say the Bud Light/ Game of Thrones crossover ad.

Gets me ready for the final season!

Both teams dominated with Jordan and Brady both having six rings... it's tough but the Pats have done it for longer.

Nope!

Both places are fun but you can't beat $2 and seeing everyone you know at the Grape and getting Yaegerbombs!

Sriracha anything!

The Bud Light ads for sure.

Pats obviosuly!! Best dynasty sports has ever seen #We'reStillHere

Just ask Lavar...

The Grape, especially on Tuesdays when Getzy is buying!

M&Ms.

I just wrote a whole Ed-Board on this one- definitely go check it out!

Short answer... er... not entirely sure.

I mean- that "Endgame" trailer was AWESOME. Actual Ad wise... Olay because "Buffy", maybe?

The sports I don't follow.

Dan Montgomery Co-Sports Editor

Chris LaZazzera Assistant Sports Editor

Your 2018-2019 4x5 Columnists:

More impressive: Patriots or 90's Bulls?

Jelly donuts

Patrick Getz Co-Sports Editor

play particularly well, only completing about 53 percent of his passes, not much better than his 50 percent completion percentage in Super Bowl LIII. It almost appeared in both games as if, when faced with adversity, he did not know how to handle defensive pressure, always looking to the sideline to get help from head coach Sean McVay. In last year’s contest against the Falcons, Atlanta sacked Goff three times as they constantly pressured him. On Sunday, New England brought Goff down four times, causing him to appear to be under duress, feel uneasy in the pocket the entire game. Even in the Divisional Round win this season against the Dallas Cowboys, Jared Goff still only completed just over 50 percent of his passes for under 200 yards. Just as the six-time Super Bowl champion Brady embraces the big moment, Goff tends to shy away from the big games.

Even though the 41-year-old Brady did not have his best Super Bowl performance, he made the necessary plays and throws to win on Sunday. Brady completed the play of the game by delivering a 29-yard pass to Gronkowski in the fourth quarter, but also used wide receiver and Super Bowl LIII Most Valuable Player Julian Edelman at will as he recorded 141 receiving yards on 10 catches.

Simply, no matter what game whether it is Week 3 of the regular season or the Super Bowl, Brady will make that one play during crunch time to secure a win.

This New England Patriots blueprint showcases one thing: over these six Super Bowl titles, there have been two constants, Tom Brady and Bill Belichick. Assistant coaches come and go, running backs are signed and cut, wide receivers are traded for and lost midway through the season but every year the Patriots play their best football in January and early February with Brady under center and Belichick on the sideline. Next season, the Patriots look to tie the ‘91-’94 Buffalo Bills and appear in their fourth straight Super Bowl as they look to chase even more history.

I just don't do basketball, but I'll trust my Sports editors on this one and say nope.

O'Malleys- Irish Pubs.

Sports

THE MIRROR | Week of February 6, 2019

Page 15

Sit-Down With First-Year Lou-Lopez Senechal

By Patrick Getz Co-Sports Editor First-year Grenoble, France native Lou-Lopez Senechal sat down to talk about her time so far at Fairfield University as a part of the Women’s Basketball team. She discusses her transition from her time playing in France and Ireland to here at Fairfield.

Q: How has your time at Fairfield been so far, being a first-year?

A: It’s been really cool. I have been learning a lot, whether it’s on or off-the-court, or spending time with my teammates.

The first semester was really good, a lot better than I expected. Also, no matter how our team is doing, I am learning every day and I am enjoying it.

Q: How have you adjusted, coming from France and now playing basketball in the United States?

A: I feel that I adapted quickly because I am used to traveling a lot, going to new places and being with new people as well as being far from my family. Of course, I had to adjust to my schedule with classes, practices, which is way more than I had in France.

Q: When you are not playing basketball, what are some things you and your teammates enjoy doing?

A: Sometimes we like having movie nights at someone’s house, especially during the Winter Break, and then we also try to eat together or watch the sunset. I feel it is very important and it will be really hard to play [with your teammates] if you don’t have this bond and not be with your teammates every day. You need to have those moments off-the-court with your teammates to get to know them and have fun.

Q: What do you enjoy the most about being on this team at Fairfield?

A: I love the atmosphere that the team brings, especially with the seniors, and also I love that this team does not give up even if something is going wrong. We try to find a solution together and do better for the next game.

Contributed by Sports Information Desk First-year forward Lou-Lopez Senechal is averaging 9.7 points per game while shooting about 90 percent from the free throw line. She is leading all first-years on the Stags in scoring.

Q: Are there major differences in playing basketball in France & Ireland compared to America?

A: Some things are similar but also some things are different. I enjoy that the practices and lifts during the week since they are more organized. I’d prefer it here because I am practicing with teammates that are my age. In France, the teammates were like 25-years-old or older and here it closer to my age. I feel like it helps to be closer in age to my teammates.

Saints Stop Stags in Albany, 61-50

Photo taken from Sports Information Desk Coming off the bench, forward Wassef Methnani shot 5-10 from the field, scoring 12 points and grabbed seven rebounds with a block in 27 minutes of play. He finished second for the Stags in scoring.

By Michael Hoffman Contributing Writer The Fairfield University Stags Basketball team lost 60-51 on the road in a game against the Siena College Saints on Monday, Feb. 4. This loss brings the Stags to 1-1 on this weekend road trip after a road win at Marist College Red Foxes. This is Siena’s second win over Fairfield as they sweep the season series against the Stags. With this win, Siena has won eight out of the last 10 games, bringing their record to 11-12 and 6-4 in conference. This loss brings Fairfield to 7-17 and 4-8 in conference.

Both the Stags and the Saints came out of the gates hot, putting them up a combined 70 points in the first half. In the first half, Siena shot a blistering 73 percent from three in the first half, making 8-11 from downtown and Fairfield shooting six of 13, which comes to about 46 percent from three. The second half was a different story, as neither team topped 25 points, with Siena putting up 23 points in the second half and Fairfield putting up a lowly 18, including three points during the final 10 minutes of the game. Both teams considerably cooled off from three in the second half shooting a combined 4-16 from beyond the arc.

Although they came out on the losing end, Fairfield coach Sydney Johnson was happy with the team’s defensive effort in the second half, "I thought we played so much better defensively in the second half," Johnson said. "Credit Siena for making shots in the first half but in the second half our guys were really locked in. I think the way we played defensively in the second half really gives us something to build on."

A Landon Taliaferro ‘20 three-ball allowed Fairfield to tied the game up at 45. Fairfield kept it tied with Siena forward Evan Fisher and Fairfield forward Wassef Methnani ‘21 traded buckets, making the score 47-47 with around 10 minutes remaining. After Methnani’s bucket, Fairfield was held scoreless until Taliaferro hit another three with 1:32 left on the clock. By the time Taliaferro finally broke through for the Fairfield offense, it was too late as Siena had already extended their lead to eight points.

Siena was lead by Fisher, who scored 18 points on 50 percent shooting, including 2-3 from deep. Siena guard Jalen Pickett added on 13 points, including six of the eight unanswered points over the nine-minute Siena run. Taliaferro lead the Stags with 14 points on 5-12 shooting including 4-8 from three. Methnani contributed 12 points on 5-10 shooting, and also added seven rebounds. Methnani and Taliaferro were the only Stags to put up double-digit point totals. Fairfield will be heading back to Siena when the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference conference tournament, where they currently would be seeded tenth, brings them to the Times Union Center.

Fairfield returns home next Saturday, Feb. 9 to take on the Monmouth Hawks, as they look to even up the season series against them. With only six games remaining in the season, and just about a month until the MAAC conference tournament tips off, the Stags will look to right the ship and go on a little run to end the season.

@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports Week of February 6, 2019

fairfieldmirror.com

SPORTS 16

Sports Editor: Dan Montgomery and Patrick Getz » daniel.montgomery@student.fairfield.edu

Foley Sets Career-High as Stags Fall to Monmonth

Contributed by Sports Information Desk Senior guard Casey Foley scored a career-high 19 points while draining five three-pointers and grabbing six rebounds in 37 minutes. She also recorded a team-high five steals along with three assists.

By Julia Lanzillotta Contributing Writer For the 14th time and the fifth consecutive year, The Fairfield Women’s Basketball teamcompeted on Super Sunday against Monmouth University. The Fairfield Stags (5-16) and The Monmouth Hawks (8-12) faced off at Alumni Hall on Sunday, Feb. 3 in front of stands filled with local girl scouts and young fans to celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day. They came back to campus from a close loss on Feb. 1 in the Bronx 47-41 against Manhattan College.

Head Coach Joe Frager compared Sunday’s game to that of the previous Friday. He said the most notable difference between the two was the tempo of the game.

“I thought the game with Manhattan in both directions was just sort of a slow sluggish tempo and I thought we had fewer offensive opportunities at Manhattan- fewer possessions.”

He also praised his players for their strong start facing Monmouth as well as their passion to clinch such a substantial lead in the third period.

Fairfield put up a valiant fight, making the match a riveting one to watch. In the end, they lengthened their losing streak to two, as the final score was cementedat 73-63. The first five points of the match were claimed by Monmouth, who flashed their offensive edge rebounding four times on the same possession before a layup by Fairfield’s No. 14 Casey Foley (’19) destroyed their momentum.

Foley accomplished a career high of 19 points and five steals for the second straight game. The quintuple pilfers contributed to her career total of 157, launching her further up the list of the program’s all-time list at number 13. Her leadership on and off the court is clearly a vital contribution to her fellow teammates. Coach Frager recognizes her talents and even went so far as to say that she carried her team on her back in the early stretch of the game.

The senior is a model for her underclassmen teammates. Although her senior season is not going exactly as she had hoped, she constantly receives credit where credit is due by her coaching staff.

“She’s not hanging her head, and she’s going out and giving us a tremendous effort all the time. She leads by example, she leads vocally and I don’t know where we’d be without her.”

Fairfield was outrebounded 36-24, which proves to be an area worthy of focus going into the MAAC (Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference) Tournament on March 7.

Foley also went 3-4 from the field in the first period and was instrumental in keeping

the competition close heading into the second quarter.

Monmouth shot 6-for-7 from deep, displaying incredible skill. Fairfield guard Rachel Hakes (’22) capped the scoring in the first at 22-19. The Stags would have to make up for a three point deficit. A three-pointer by Foley knotted the score in the third and it was preceded by a 7-0 run which gave Fairfield a 4-point lead- their highest of the game so far. The Stags secured a 32-30 lead after 20 minutes of play.

Redshirt No. 1 Katie Armstrong ‘17 tallied 13 points in the full 40 minutes of play and was instrumental in the Stags 12-4 run, which ended in a 10 point advantage for the home team. She picked up the foul and a layup, contributing three points in a single play. This impetus was met by a stronger Monmouth force.

The third period came to a draw when the Hawks got away with a 10-0 run.

Fairfield’s double digit lead was forfeited immediately and once again, the teams met at a draw. Fairfield would not lead at all in the fourth quarter, and collapsed to their competition.

Alumni Hall will see another match this coming Thursday, Feb. 7 against Canisius where our Stags will hope to redeem themselves. Coach Frager gave us insight into how he plans to prepare his group for Thursday’s game.

He emphasized the importance of a well rested team, and stressed that, since our Stags have played three games in such a short window (Siena: Jan. 29, Manhattan: Feb. 1, Monmouth: Feb. 3), they would get the day off after Sunday’s matchup. He detailed practice plans for the week, describing how they intend on moving forward after a tough loss.

“We would regroup on Tuesday and Wednesday, and we’ll look at the Canisius film from the first time we played them. It was a three point loss, a very competitive loss there” said the head coach.

Frager identified the two skills that need extra attention for this group. The first being ball security; “making sure we don’t turn the ball over in key junctures of the game, especially when we have a lead” and the second being the psychology of keeping a lead. Coach Frager stressed that “we’ve got to fill our heads with more positive thoughts at that point.”

These may be arguably some of the most important points of focus in the game of basketball, and identifying these weaknesses and attempting to work on them will certainly make for a holistically successful team.

Contributed by Sports Information Desk The Fairfield Women's Basketball (left) team now sits at 5-16 (2-8 in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference) on the season as Stags leading scorer Khadidiatou Diouf (right) registered 18 points and six rebounds.