Fairfield Mirror 3/16/2016

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THE M RR R Independent student newspaper

Week of March 16, 2016

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Vol. 41 Iss. 18

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Construction on the Leslie C. Quick, Jr. Recreation Complex, which began in Summer 2015, is on target to be finished by the start of the Fall 2016 semester.

RecPlex is on track for August 2016 completion

By Juliana Sansonetti Assistant News Editor Fairfield students have been awaiting the much anticipated completion of the new Leslie C. Quick, Jr. Recreation Complex since the project was announced in 2014 and now, after many donations from the Fairfield Rising campaign, construction is nearing its end.

Construction of the new RecPlex continues right on schedule, according to Dean of Students Karen Donoghue ‘03. “[Construction] is coming along really well,” Donoghue remarked. “As you can see, physically, they are almost only working inside, so the building is almost completely enclosed which will allow at this point really just the finishing touches to go on inside.”

“The locker rooms are in good shape,” Donoghue continued. “The structure is up and now they are just really working on finishing the infrastructure for electrical, data, IT, all of that sort of stuff that goes into play. And then it’s walls and there you go.”

Director of Recreation Phil Palumbo also verified this, commenting that the new RecPlex will be ready to open at the start of the 2016 fall semester, the same completion time originally slated at the beginning of construction.

Palumbo described the new design as being “lightyears” ahead of the original RecPlex, and he said that he knows that it will be popular among students.

“I think because of the design, the amount of equipment we will be having and the versatility of the equipment

we will probably be getting, though not everything is final yet, I think that [the students] will be in awe of what is being done,” Palumbo said.

Donoghue also anticipates that students will enjoy the new RecPlex.

“I think they are going to really appreciate the expanded space as well as the increase in the equipment and the really nice layout that is very open,” she said, “so students can train either together or separately when they are doing their workouts … and I think the spinning option is going to be great for all of our students as well as staff and faculty.”

According to Donoghue, the new RecPlex is to have double the amount of cardio and strength equipment, four multifunctional rooms and one spinning room for indoor cycling on stationary ex-

ercise bikes, along with a running track and three large courts with scoreboards for intramurals, clubs and ordinary play.

Several students are also hopeful and excited for the new RecPlex.

Sophomore Monica Willson stated, “I’m definitely excited for the new RecPlex as I enjoy working out. We could definitely use some more machines and a larger space for better air circulation since Alumni Hall’s gym is quite small.

Having the new renovation will allow more students to workout during popular times and feel more comfortable and not cramped.”

“As college students, this new investment that the school is making gives us an avenue to get healthy and burn off the READ

STUDENTS ON PAGE 2

57th Annual Dogwoods Dance to have a fresh new look What’s your opinion on this year’s revamped Dogwoods 2.0?

26 people were surveyed

By Jesse Erickson Editor-in-Chief

The 57-year-old tradition of Dogwoods is getting a makeover in order to better cater to the needs and wants of students. Dogwoods I’m glad Dogwoods will have a new look 2.0 will be taking place on Friday, April 1 startthis year. ing at 8 p.m. in Alumni Hall.

This year, rather than hosting the traditional Dogwoods dance, Fairfield University’s Student Association has made the decision to I preferred the Kentucky Derby style of change the way the event is usually organized.

Dogwoods In the past, Dogwoods has usually entailed a themed dance where students are invited to dance and eat for the night. However, in the past couple of years, the popularity of the It doesn’t matter to me. event has declined and FUSA found that it needed to change the way in which the event

runs.

“During our initial meetings, we went back to the drawing board and tried to look at what students wanted,” said Dogwoods board member, Anthony Pope ‘18. “[Presidential Ball] already filled the need for a school formal and the annual Fall concert fulfilled the need for a concert, so we wanted to bring something new to the table.”

Since Dogwoods is a long-standing University tradition, FUSA has kept the name the same, but has hired a company called Grooveboston to disc jockey.

“Dogwoods has been around since Fairfield was founded, so we felt it was important to keep the name, but modernize the event,” READ

ETHOS ON PAGE 4

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THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

News

Students look forward to opening of new RecPlex Continued from page 1

freshman 15,” stated Dana Saad ’18. “I am looking forward to the new RecPlex because it is going to be a great way to bring students together and a great opportunity we all have to capitalize on, get healthy and ensure our well-being in the future.”

Some students, who have found alternative means of exercising while the RecPlex is being renovated, have decided that they will return to the RecPlex after construction is completed.

“I don’t usually end up going to the gym at Alumni Hall,” commented Claire Davin ‘18. “I usually end up taking fitness classes, either in Faber, the yoga class that I take or in Alumni Hall for a fitness class. I don’t usually work out

on my own, I like to do the classes more.”

Davin mentioned how she did not go to the old RecPlex very often, but she is hoping to go to the new one.

“I’m really excited for the new RecPlex,” she added. “I’m really looking forward to seeing what they do.”

Freshman Jordan Mason, who works out by taking walks around the campus, said she will “definitely” go to the new RecPlex.

“It looks like it’s going to be good,” she said. “I’m a big fan of treadmills, StairMaster, weights and stuff like that. When I go to the gym that’s usually what I head toward. I would imagine [that the new RecPlex will have these things.]”

“I’m really excited for it,” Ma-

son continued. “I think it’s going to be great. I know a lot of other people are really excited for it, too.”

Willson believes that the new RecPlex will be worth the wait.

“Since the renovation is short,” she said, “I feel it’s worth waiting for a new RecPlex to be built to allow students to work out at their convenience and have a greater space and variety in workout equipment.”

Donoghue echoed this sentiment, commenting, “I think construction is challenging, but I think at the end of the day the fact that it was only closed for one year, as hard as this one year was, I believe that every moment that might have been hard for students is going to be worth it when that facility opens up.”

Catherine Veschi/The Mirror

Director of Recreation Phil Palumbo feels that renovations on the Leslie C. Quick, Jr. Recreation Complex are progressing steadily.

Fairfield examines sexual assault resources on campus

By Victoria Bresnahan Contributing Writer Silence seems to have become the prescribed medicine for sexual assault. Everyone knows the statistics and the chances that it could happen to them. Yet, sometimes we get embarrassed by the mere mention of it. No one wants to be associated with the word “rape.”

Fairfield is a small campus with a student body of almost 5,000 students and has reported that nine sexual offenses occurred on and off campus in 2014 (an increase from their previous four reports from the year before).

College campuses are the setting for a majority of sexual assaults. According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, 1 in 5 women and 1 in 16 men will be sexually assaulted sometime during their collegiate years.

With all the resources and means of education available at institutions of higher learning, it seems logical to question why the danger to students remains so high.

On college campuses specifically, the conversation about rape seems to rest on who will take the blame, and not the emotional reaction of the survivor.

Like most colleges, Fairfield University offers extensive educational programs and resources about sexual assault to its student body. The only thing the school is missing is a support group for survivors.

“People need the support. They need to know there’s somewhere to go,” said Semina Kojic ‘18.

Many faculty and administration members are unsure of why a support group isn’t available to students.

Dr. Emily Orlando, associate professor of English, Dr. Anna Lawrence, associate professor of history and Dr. David Gudelunas, associate professor of communication –all co-directors of the Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies at Fairfield University–, and Dr. Elizabeth Hohl, a professor of the Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies program at Fairfield University, were not aware of any student or school-facilitated support group. They did, however, question whether Fairfield University’s Counseling and Psychological Services has sponsored one in the past.

Clery Report 2015 Sexual Offenses: 2014: 9 2013: 4 2012: 4 2011: 0

Do you feel Fairfield University does enough for survivors of sexual assault?

36 students were surveyed.

Yes, I feel well-informed, protected and comfortable with the services provided by Counseling and Psychological Services.

Counseling and Psychological Services declined to comment on the matter. However, William Johnson, Fairfield University’s Title IX coordinator, speculates that the lack of a support group comes from a “lack of interest.”

Johnson didn’t elaborate how the school concluded that there was a lack of interest.

According to the 36 students who responded to a poll, there doesn’t seem to be a lack of interest, with a majority stating that there should be a support group.

Based on the poll, several students reported that they don’t feel a support group for victims of sexual assault is necessary, for reasons that remain unknown.

Johnson stated that a group might be founded if enough individuals showed interest. If a support group were to be created, it would have to be run by a trained and/or licensed individual to avoid further damage to survivors. He also stated that the school would strongly oppose sponsoring a school-affiliated support group run by anyone other than a trained professional.

One such trained professional is Tina Fitch, the Senior Advocate at the Center for Family Justice in Bridgeport, who spends her time helping and supporting survivors as they recover. She runs a support group called “A Path to Healing” at the crisis center.

“The group is about connecting with other survivors,” said Fitch. “It is an hour and half out of your week to be surrounded by other people who can relate to their experiences and who will not make them [survivors] feel judged.”

Fitch further reiterated that when survivors begin their recovery, many of them are suffering from symptoms of trauma and other emotional disturbances including depression, numbness, avoidance of intimacy, engaging in unsafe behaviors, hyper-vigilance, anxiety and flashbacks.

“The world doesn’t feel safe anymore,” said Fitch. “It

I feel like Fairfield does a lot for survivors, but could be doing more.

No, I don’t feel like Fairfield educates/ protects their students enough, and the services don’t provide enough help.

robs them of their basic right to feel safe.”

The Center for Family Justice is an option for those who have been affected by sexual assault. With locations in Fairfield, Bridgeport, Monroe, Stratford and Trumbull, the center provides support groups, individual counseling and advocacy to survivors of sexual assault.

Despite this, Fitch reported that there are no Fairfield students utilizing the support groups at the Center for Family Justice at the moment.

Faculty and administration are questioning the reason for the increase of sexual assaults in Fairfield University’s 2015 Clery Report.

When asked about the increase in the reporting of this crime, DPS officer Sergeant Rob Didato, a SMART officer trained specifically to handle sexual assault stated, “Yes, sexual assaults are overwhelmingly not reported throughout the entire U.S. Unfortunately, victims of sexual assault often feel a stigma that goes along with reporting.”

Didato thinks that the number of reported assaults would be higher if survivors felt empowered to come forward.

“They fear that no one will believe them. They fear that they will be blamed. They fear that their friends will distance themselves from them,” stated Didato. “They don’t want to be known as ‘the person who was raped.”

Didato stated that some of the issues Fairfield University has with sexual assault derives from the party atmosphere on campus.

“There is a strong alcohol culture on campus that leads to many of the issues we deal with,” Didato stated, adding that Public Safety’s investigations into crimes such as sexual assault more often than not reveal intoxication as a component.

All first year students at Fairfield University are reREAD

UNIVERSITTY ON PAGE 4

THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

News

News: In the United States

By Catherine Veschi News Editor

Compiled by Brendan Zimmerman Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.

4.

3/1 12:34 p.m. – A student reported that his StagCard had been stolen. Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact DPS. 7:53 p.m. – The smell of marijuana led RAs in Loyola Hall to notify DPS, which led to one student being issued an infraction for possession of marijuana and paraphernalia.

3/2 2:07 a.m. – An incident of reckless operation occurred up at the townhouses, where a vehicle was seen driving around fast and having its horn honked repeatedly. The driver was identified and has been referred to student conduct.

1.

5.

6.

8.

7.

3.

2.

3/5 2:30 p.m. – Three underage students were caught drinking beer while watching a lacrosse game at Rafferty Stadium. DPS confiscated 16 beers and the students were referred to student conduct.

1. Hudson River, N.Y.- A 90-foot vessel with three people on-board collided with a construction barge and sank under the Tappan Zee Bridge on Saturday. One crew member died in the incident and two are missing.

3/8 6:36 p.m. – A brushfire was reported near the wooded area of the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts. The fire department quickly responded and put out the fire without any damage occurring.

The cause is still under investigation.

3/12 8:58 a.m. – An incident of vandalism was reported in the Townhouse 8 block, where a student allegedly broke a second story window by throwing a Corona bottle through it.

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

Jesse Erickson, Editor-in-Chief Andrew DaRosa, Executive Editor Ariana Puzzo, Managing Editor Editors Catherine Veschi, News Juliana Sansonetti, Assistant News Meaghan Conlon, Opinion Angela Sammarone, Opinion Colleen O’Connor, Vine Brendan Zimmerman, Assistant Vine Alexia Dizienzo, Coffee Break Alfredo Torres, Sports Daniel Montgomery, Assistant Sports Allison White, Chief Copy Editor Gianna Saladino, Social Media Editor Online Michael Genovese, Web Master Business Department Email: advertising@fairfieldmirror.com Chrstopher Lapone, Director of Finance Madeleine Sandie, Director of Advertising Mike Hill, Circulation Adviser Dr. Tommy Xie Contact Information Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, BCC 104 Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824 General email: info@fairfieldmirror.com

5. Flint, Mich.- A group of Flint families has filed lawsuits in the Michigan city’s water crisis. The lawsuits cover 50 children allegedly suffering from lead poisoning from drinking Flint water.

2. Juneau, Alaska- A 26-year-old man driving a snowmobile was arrested for trying to drive the machine into two musher teams taking part in the Iditarod dog sled race. At least one dog was killed and three others were injured from the attack.

6. Cleveland, Ohio- Teenagers in Ohio celebrating their 18th birthday before November’s election are now entitled to have their votes for presidential candidates counted in Ohio’s primary on Mar. 15, despite not having turned 18 yet, according to a ruling by an Ohio judge.

3. Atmore, Ala.- About 100 inmates at the William C. Holman Correctional Facility were involved in a riot on Friday in which the warden and a guard were stabbed. The prison was on lockdown on Saturday in response to the riot.

7. Winston-Salem, N.C.- A federal appeals court said on Thursday that North Carolina can issue specialty license plates with an anti-abortion slogan. The court ruled 2-1 clears the way for the state to offer the “Choose Life” plate approved by its Republican-led legislature in 2011.

4. Bozeman, Mont.- Three people were found dead in a house in Montana late Friday afternoon by Gallatin County Sheriff ’s deputies. The identities of the deceased are unknown and investigation is ongoing.

8. Beverly Hills, Calif.- Joseph Cait, a 38-year-old senior auction administrator with I.M. Chait Gallery/ Auctioneers, pleaded guilty of conspiring to smuggling at least $1 million in animal products that included rhino horn and elephant ivory. Cait could be sentenced to up to five years in prison on the wildlife smuggling charge.

News: Around the World

By Zachary Durso Contributing Writer

Ankara, Turkey – A car bomb explosion in the Kizilay district of the Turkish capital Ankara claimed the lives of 32 and wounded over 100.

Eyewitnesses say that several vehicles within the vicinity of the explosion were reduced to charred wreckage. The Turkish president, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, said that the attack was the result of terror groups targeting civilians.

Ivory Coast, Africa – Al Qaeda linked terrorist militants raised arms at a beach resort in Grand Bassam located on the Ivory Coast. The militants fired upon beach-goers killing at least 16 people, including western foreigners of German and French descent.

Jerusalem, Israel – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reached out to world powers in response to recent Iranian missile tests. Netanyahu called for world powers to take “immediate punitive steps” against Iran following the country’s ballistic missile tests.

Canberra, Australia – The Australian Foreign Minister has recently contacted Malaysia regarding the detention of an Australian journalist and camera operator who attempted to interview the Malaysian Prime Minister over allegations of corruption.

They were detained after walking up to the prime minister, and are currently in a detention center awaiting government intervention.

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THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

News

University lacks sexual assault support groups Continued from page 2

quired to take the First Year Experience course, which focuses in part on sexual assault — what it means, how to report it, understanding consent and so on.

The school also provides FYE credit for attending educational programs such as Jane Doe No More, featuring a foundation that strives to decrease the stigma against survivors.

First Year students are also required to take the online course “AlcoholEdu & Haven” before beginning their time at Fairfield, which teaches students about alcohol safety, how to discern abusive relationships and what sexual assault is.

Fairfield University provides students with the option of peer reporting.

This allows students to report a rape on behalf of the survivor by filling out an anonymous report or incident report with the Department of Public Safety.

The peer reporting option contradicts advice contained in the university brochure, “Sexual Assault, and Intimate Partner Violence,” which states, “If your friend shares with you that he/she has survived a sexual assault, it’s important to keep this information private and refer them to get help immediately.”

Still, some students believe more could be done.

“As far as knowledge and resources, I think Fairfield has not prepared me to deal with sexual assault,” said Aly Pisarczyk ‘17. “Freshman year, administration suggested we attend a presentation on sexual assault, but did not require attendance.”

Survivors of sexual assault that occurred at Fairfield University can choose to report the assault to the Department of Public Safety if they feel it to be necessary. Many therapists and survivors believe that the pace of recovery is up to the survivor alone, as it is their choice to report their experience to law enforcement.

Contributed by News@Fairfield

A team of students from the School of Engineering are in the process of designing a mini baja, dune buggy-like vehicle, to compete in the 40th Annual Mini Baja Competition.

Engineering school students invent automobile for competition

By Amanda Hajjar Contributing Writer

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Teams of student engineers from universities all over the world will flock to Rochester, New York to put both their creative and engineering skills to the test in the 40th Annual Mini Baja Competition.

For the first time ever, 25 students from the School of Engineering will be representing Fairfield at the event.

Anyone interested could join the Fairfield team. The two captains, Karim Kharbouch ‘17 and Emily Yale ‘18, select the team who will travel to the competition based upon meeting attendance and contributions.

This competition, run by The Society of Automotive Engineers will test each teams’ mini baja, a dune buggy-like vehicle. These bajas will be tested on their ability to withstand hill climbs, four hour endurance tests and other strenuous events.

SAE is a globally active professional association and standards organization for engineering professionals in various industries ranging from aerospace, automotive and commercial vehicles.

Fairfield decided to compete in this competition for several reasons.

“There was a group of students last year that were interested in the SAE Baja program, they approached the Dean and the ball started rolling from there,” said Yale.

Kharbouch said, “One of the main reasons we are doing this is because it mimics the nature of teamwork and requirements that one would be faced with in an engineering company.”

The team is excited not only for the event, but for the process that goes into building the baja. Yale said, “We are most excited for

building the car. As engineers, we find nothing more fun than taking a pile of metal and transforming it into a working machine.”

The cost of building one of these cars is not only difficult, but expensive as well.

The rough estimate to build a mini baja is around $10,000, according to Kharbouch.

Luckily, for the team members, the University agreed to sponsor them and cover the costs.

“We made a very good case to the school,” Kharbouch said. “Not only do we have to design, build and think about every single component in this car from nut A to bolt Z, but we have to also document all the costs and provide a very intricate cost report because this is also about creating a sellable prototype.”

This competition is extremely important to the team members.

Kharbouch said, “It is a substantial competition that requires the dedication of everyone involved as we must also keep up with our school work.”

Junior engineering major Max Mentonis said, “I think it’s great Fairfield is doing it. The only reason I’m not participating is because I have to keep up with my internship.”

Professor Robert Wojna is the team’s faculty advisor. He is overseeing Fair afield’s progress with the car, but he is not allowed to help with its design or fabrication.

“I have many years of involvement in activities involving cars and motorcycles. I have owned sports cars and muscle cars and eleven motorcycles- nine Harleys,” Wojna said.

He added that “The project is going well.

The students have a great knowledge of and passion for cars.”

The event will take place from June 9 to June 12.

Ethos Tour to bring lively event to Fairfield Continued from page 1

said Pope. “The new name, Dogwoods 2.0, brings a modern/techy feel while still keeping the Fairfield roots.”

Groove Boston caters to universities across the country, including the University of Connecticut and Rhode Island College, stating that their goal is to “create legendary dance parties by combining massive-scale production with professional in-house talent, led by a world-class touring crew of some of the most talented audio, lighting, staging and special effects professionals in the industry.”

As part of Groove Boston’s Ethos Tour, Pope believes that this event will “bring the

campus alive with over-the-top lighting, CO2 cannons and so much more that will transform Alumni Hall into something that Alumni Hall has never seen before.”

The event will be DJ’d by several different artists, including Fairfield’s own Greg Tchertchian ‘18, or known as Greg T. Since the Presidential Ball and the Dogwoods Dance will be different from one another and the event will become more modern with a student DJ, FUSA hopes that attendance will rise significantly.

“We want to create a lot of buzz and excitement prior to April 1, and then exceed students’ expectations the night of the event,” said Chair of Programming and Vice President elect Brianna Tancredi.

Junior Claire Zaneski attended the Kentucky Derby themed Dogwoods dance last year, but is looking forward to the change.

“It was put together really well and it was really nice, but I definitely think it attracted more underclassmen than upperclassmen,” said Zaneski. “I’m looking forward to this because my friend had GrooveBoston at her school and said it was so much fun.”

However, some students are upset about this change and had hoped that there would be a spring concert.

“I’m open to this, but I don’t think that I am excited for it. I would have preferred an actual spring concert,” said Anthony Szeymonik ‘18. “I think they did the best that they could, but it just sucks because you have

other schools that have great performances.”

FUSA will not be having a spring concert, but instead are updating Dogwoods and will be having Boston Marathon survivor Jeffrey Bauman speak.

“With our resources and available funds, we could not host a spring concert this semester but still wanted to give the students as much as we could,” said Tancredi. “...Dogwoods 2.0 isn’t an attempt to give students a concert, but an event that appeals more to them and brings the student body together.”

Over the next couple of weeks, students will be seeing different promotional events for the dance that will be produced by FUSA. Tickets can be purchased online.

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THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

Opinion

Opinion

Editors Meaghan Conlon and Angela Sammarone » opinion@fairfieldmirror.com

NJ proposes lowering the drinking age

By Michaela Conlon Contributing Writer

If Donald was Donna, she wouldn't cut it

By Kelsey Sullivan Contributing Writer Since this summer, we have all been bearing witness to the circus that is Donald Trump’s race to be the next president of the United States.

In a Feb. 27 article from The New York Times, Frank Bruni posed an extremely interesting and thought-provoking question: What if Trump was a woman? The writer named this imaginary character “The Donna.”

Just picture it: Donna’s a real estate executive on her third marriage with at least one child born out of wedlock. The Donna resorts to superficial insults to other candidates, has no experience in politics and uses aggression and a loud voice to overpower everyone else. Personally, I think The Donna would be a laughing stock.

Women aren’t taken as seriously in the public sphere, and this is another example of a gender deficit that is not popularly addressed in our country. I feel like a woman who spoke out of turn and made sexist and racist claims would not get away with it simply by the fact of her sex, making it unfair that Trump, a man, says hurtful comments without any retribution.

This article raises a provocative question about inherent sexism in politics and the public sphere. I don’t think The Donna would make it past the first stage of running for president. Because of her taunting and tough attitude, she would be labeled a b----. With her lack of political experience, she would be laughed right out of the polls.

Editorial Board Spring Cleaning Jesse Erickson Editor-in-Chief Andrew DaRosa Executive Editor Ariana Puzzo Managing Editor

A woman who makes fun of other candidates and references her lady parts would not have come even close to making it to the real race. Doesn’t that seem pretty shocking that a man who is actually doing these things has a real chance at not only becoming the Republican presidential candidate, but the possible leader of our nation?

I think it’s pretty bleak that we could have a president who is inherently sexist.

It would set back all of the progress we’ve been fighting for to achieve gender equality such as issues regarding women’s health and the wage gap.

Even though we have made progress, there is still a great inequality between the sexes, particularly in politics. Bruni writes, “I’m not arguing for a greater chastity in men. I’m arguing for a fairer and more forgiving attitude towards women.” And I agree with that statement, not just in the realm of politics, but women in the public eye in general.

Many of the debate questions have been focused on “the war on women” and the evident gender inequality that is still very present in our nation. The success of Trump’s campaign speaks more toward gender inequality than anything the candidates have to say about it, which I find to be ridiculous when considering how well his campaign has done.

If you think about The Donna and how the public would react to a woman who treats men like pieces of meat, it would be completely different to how the public and the voters are reacting to Trump. In the ar-

Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes a new Mirror staff. As the staff transitions, it’s with a heavy heart that we let go of our graduating seniors and let in the new blood to revitalize the Mirror. With this change comes a plethora of new ideas and opportunities to keep growing with our evolving community.

Since our humble starts freshmen year, our experiences with the Mirror have only continued to prepare us for the challenges to come.

Fast forward to today, our roles as section editors have only made us more aware of the inner obstacles that the paper can bring forth.

Just this past semester, we have dealt with huge issues regarding campus politics, labor prob-

ticle Bruni writes, “...because he [Trump] thrives in spite of overtly sexist language and remarks that routinely objectify women.” Recently, there have been many statements from Trump’s past that have revealed what a sexist he truly is and how he clearly views women as sexual objects.

Trump has declared that after taking over the Miss USA pageant he wanted “the bathing suits to be smaller and the heels to be higher.” He’s also been known to make unsettling comments about his daughter’s beauty, going as far to say, “If I weren’t happily married and, ya know, her father.” It seems to me that Trump can make extremely inappropriate comments in the public sphere with no other explanation than that he is a man; I don’t think a woman would be able to make the same statements and garner similar success that Trump has.

Yet somehow, he is still winning state after state in the primaries. If as a country we are ever going to have gender equality, we should stop praising men who act sexist and objectify women. Especially when thinking how if the scenario was reversed, an inherently sexist woman would be run out of the public domain quicker than we could imagine.

I live in fear of being a young woman in the United States under the presidency of Trump for the next four to eight years.

Thinking about a president who does not take gender inequality seriously and would do next to nothing to ensure that I am treated equally to my male counterparts is not my idea of a good president.

lems on campus and race issues.

Race issues on our campus were covered by media outlets across the country, while the Mirror remained diligent and objective in our coverage of the events as they unfolded. Our coverage was thorough, highlighting the many different opinions being discussed and analyzing the sides of this multifaceted issue.

This iteration of the editorial board will persevere with its fervent work ethic and a maintenance of the principles that form the foundation of our paper. These properties have been instilled in us through the past editorial board who have constantly been role models in and out of the newsroom. They have prepared us to

As of July 2015, the U.S. State Department recognized that out of 190 countries worldwide, 61 percent of them have a drinking age of 18 or 19 years old. The United States is one of only 12 countries that has a legal drinking age of 21. Currently, some New Jersey lawmakers are considering dropping the drinking age to 18 again, despite the fact that “any state that reduces its drinking age below 21 stands to lose millions of dollars in federal highway funds,” according to an article on NJ.com. Moreover, Assemblyman Jon Wisniewski, chairman of the Assembly's transportation committee, said, “Losing such money would be a problem for a state with transportation issues.” Personally, I feel there is more to lose from lowering the drinking age than federal highway funds. More importantly, it is about the health of the younger generation and the risk of pairing the legal ability of driving a car at 18 with the legal ability to drink.

Many people question that if the majority of the world can legally drink, then why can’t we? It is argued that if at 18 you can vote, fight for your country or get married, the legal consumption of alcohol shouldn’t

I believe that by lowering the drinking age, the age range of those who drink illegally will become even younger.

Underage drinking happens regardless of the drinking age. be a big deal. By lowering the drinking age, young adults who were consuming alcohol illegally will no longer be penalized. Regardless, lowering the drinking age does not eliminate the consequences that come from drinking irresponsibly. Allowing more people to drink legally by lowering the drinking age will only add to the amount of people who could abuse the opportunity.

I believe that by lowering the drinking age, the age range of those who drink illegally will become even younger. Underage drinking happens regardless of the drinking age. For me, it raises the question of if it is acceptable for students to drink at 18, will kids even younger be more inclined to drink? Many students drink

take on more issues like the ones we have dealt with so far this semester and with the growth of our staff due to the past editorial boards recruitment, we will have more opportunities to continue to investigate issues occurring around campus.

With a larger staff, we are hopeful to become a leading multimedia news outlet. Social media has played an important role in how we have delivered breaking news, not only through our campus community, but also on a global scale.

With regards to the social media dimension of our paper, we have realized that our online presence must be further enhanced to engage our audiences in a timely

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LICENSES ON PAGE 6

and dependable manner.

Using outlets such as Twitter and Facebook, our goal this upcoming year is to bring the interactive elements of our site directly onto the platforms while generating exclusive content and developments that will only be available through our social media presence.

We also hope to utilize popular social media applications that we have yet to use such as Snapchat, as well as revamping our website to include exclusive online columns and galleries of pictures and videos of breaking news stories.

At the end of the day, we will miss our past editorial board, but remember that with every spring cleaning comes a fresh perspective on what is to come.

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THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

Opinion

Licenses to drink and drive wouldn't mix CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 around the age of 18 now and assume it is acceptable because it is close to the legal age of 21.

In an article for CBS News, Chuck Hurley of Mothers Against Drunk Driving explained that lowering the drinking age “would just increase the availability of alcohol to even younger adults.”

He referred to it as “the trickle down approach,” meaning the age of people getting their hands on alcohol would just get younger.

This will affect the physical development of kids starting to consume alcohol at such a young age.

In an excerpt from an article on the John Hopkins School of Medicine’s website, drinking at a young age “can cause alterations in the structure and function of the developing brain, which continues to mature into the mid- to late twenties. It is also a risk factor for heavy drinking later in life.”

There is no benefit of lowering the drinking age if it hinders the development of children's brains. If the law is changed, there is no way to stop younger people from drinking underage just as it is difficult to stop underage drinking now.

According to ScienceDaily, an online source about the latest research news, it has been proven that since the United States raised the drinking age to 21, thousands of lives have been saved from alcohol-related traffic casualties. The same article explained, “The laws, studies show, are associated with lower rates of drunk-driving crashes among young people.”

Too many people already abuse drink-

ing and get behind the wheel of a car. If we fine, but the car was destroyed. It is scary behind a wheel after drinking. increase the number of people allowed to to think that a grown man abused his legal Our society’s underage drinking genlegally drink, we are risking more people right to drink. eration thrives on binge drinking, and alrecklessly driving while intoxicated.

If mature adults cannot handle the re- lowing this behavior to be legal would only I never saw the big deal of lowering sponsibility of not drinking and driving, make it worse. I believe it is not necessary the drinking age to 18 until I thought about then young adults definitely should not be to lower the drinking age when it has been drunk driving. able to legally consume at the same age they proven that raising it has saved thousands However, throughout high school, I re- can drive. There is plenty of time to drink of lives. It is shocking that New Jersey lawalized how dangerous it could be and that responsibly when at the legal age. makers are looking past such progression many kids are not mature enough to legally There is too much risk associated and considering lowering the drinking age be given this opportunity. If young adults with allowing 18 year olds to legally drive again. We should not be looking to lower were educated enough on the consequences a car and legally drink. Lowering the legal the legal age to consume alcohol especially of drinking and driving, it would be more drinking age to 18 negatively affects us by if some who are legal now cannot even enreasonable to consider lowering the drink- increasing the amount of people who get joy drinking responsibly. ing age.

I believe seeing real-life scenarios and hearing personal stories from victims’ families will open up people’s eyes more to the consequences of drunk driving. One year of Drug Abuse Residence Education – a program that educates the prevention of substance abuse – and assemblies given by a cop that many kids skip out on is not enough. Many kids look past that and think it is fine to drive drunk from a party because they “live around the corner.”

To make it worse, they think that they are sober enough to drive others. Just because you passed your road test does not mean you can ace driving home drunk. It disgusts me that some people think it is an accomplishment to be able to get from one place to another driving a vehicle while intoxicated.

Just before this past Thanksgiving, four of my friends were driving home one night and were struck by a drunk Contributed by Donald Marra driver (pictured right). Luckily, all of them had their seatbelts on and were In November 2015, four teenagers were hit by a drunk driver in Sayville, New York.

Stag-gering Opinions Are you concerned about your privacy if Apple creates a code to hack the iPhone of one of the San Bernardino shooters?

“Personally, I like privacy, especially on my phone, so if there’s other ways to access this guy’s [information], I think they should look into it besides just that one option.”

Sam Civitello ‘18

“Yeah, that’s a concern. I have all of my personal information on my laptop, so I think that would be a bad thing if they were to have that out in the public.”

Molly Missett ‘17

“I don’t have an opinion on Apple’s position or whether law enforcement is correct, but as far as privacy, I do kind of like that the way they designed the iPhone — they don’t track us at all..."

Carol Ann Davis, associate professor of English

Ariana Puzzo/The Mirror

To see the rest of Carol Ann Davis' response, go to Stag-gering Opinions at fairfieldmirror.com. Join the discussion by tweeting us with the hashtag #AppleHack.

St. Paddy's Day isn't just for the Irish

By Deanna Carbone Contributing Writer The nation is readying itself for the fast-approaching holiday celebrating the patron saint of Ireland: St. Patrick’s Day. Many people associate St. Patrick’s Day with different things. Some think of the smiling faces and blurs of green and orange at parades, while others may think of the clinks of Guinness glasses in a crowded bar. On the home front, Fairfield students are eagerly anticipating Sham Jam. In my eyes, St. Patrick’s Day signifies the return of my favorite drink, the Shamrock Shake. I, along with many others, dress up in green and head to the New York City parade with friends for one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

St. Patrick’s Day wasn’t always a day of celebration, but a somber religious holiday. Starting in the 17th century, March 17 was a religious feast day that remembered the death of St. Patrick. For centuries following, this was known as a day of temperance and religious observation.

It appears that over time, St. Patrick’s Day has spread beyond Ireland; what used to be considered an Irish holiday is now celebrated by all ethnicities and people from different backgrounds in the United States. I believe the U.S. adaptation of St. Patrick’s Day is more than just a drinking holiday, but a way for all citizens to come together.

The celebration of St. Patrick’s Day transformed in the U.S. by the end of the 18th century. The small Irish celebrations became public events and parades. By the 20th century, St. Patrick’s Day spread across the U.S. and was celebrated by people with no Irish heritage. What originally started out as a modest feast day in Ireland became a huge celebration in the U.S. that stretches throughout the month of March.

Through the re-branding of St. Patrick’s Day as a

drinking holiday, most people have long forgotten the somber meaning behind March 17.

In an article from the Baltimore Sun, reporter Mike Cronin suggests that St. Patrick’s Day is the closest thing that the U.S. has to “National Immigrant Day.” Instead of Irish-Americans quietly observing March 17 in their own homes, the entire country comes together to celebrate a national holiday. I agree with Cronin; in choosing to expand the commemoration of St. Patrick’s Day beyond its religious meaning, we have gained a commemoration of the diversity in America.

Holidays such as Mardi Gras or Cinco de Mayo are all religiously or culturally significant celebrations. I believe that celebrating these holidays is more than an excuse to go to a party, but an appreciation of all the different cultures and religious backgrounds that have been brought to the United States. The reason why so many different culturally specific holidays are celebrated in the U.S. is because of the diversity in our country. The fact that we, as American citizens, have the ability to observe and participate in all of these celebrations is an incredible opportunity. We should celebrate, not only these holidays, but the diversity that we have in our country.

St. Patrick’s Day is no longer a celebration of the Irish, but just a celebration. The United States is known for being a melting pot and I think that St. Patrick’s Day is one of the best examples of that trademark. People from all different kinds of ethnic backgrounds will be seen wearing green and orange on Thursday. They may not know it, but rather than showing off Irish colors, they are exemplifying what it means to be American.

Publicdomainpictures.net/ Creative Commons

The Mirror welcomes the opinions and contributions of its readers: Letters to the editor must be timely and submitted by email to info@fairfieldmirror.com or Box AA. All letters to the editor that are appropriate will be published either in print or online. The Mirror reserves the right to edit letters and articles for content, length and grammatical error. Letters should be free of obscenities and personal attacks and should contain correct and factual information not exceeding 500 words.

The Vine

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

Don Gummer uses sculptures to reflect society

Alicia Phaneuf/The Mirror

The Vine

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THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

Art exhibit allows for interpretation of society

By Alicia Phaneuf Contributing Writer

Often inspired by the world around him, sculptor Don Gummer aspires to influence his viewers to reflect on their own perceptions of society. The importance of Gummer’s artwork lies within the perspective of the viewer, so that they can decide what the piece is attempting to signify.

Gummer said, “I hope people take away from my exhibition the same sense of the world that I had at the time that I made the piece. I want to make the viewer more aware of their own place in the world.”

Drawing inspiration from the world around him, Gummer finds art not only through the physical elements of the Earth, but also through intellectual aspects. For example, Gummer can receive inspiration from the land around him to create an elaborate sculpture. He also uses these paintings and sculptures in ways to connect with the human mind so that his viewers will have a positive reaction to them.

“There is the visual world and the non-visual world,” said Gummer, “and I draw from things that happen in both of these worlds and focus on how I can make visible things serve psychological needs.”

It is an amazing honor for Fairfield to host Don Gummer, an

internationally renowned artist, and his exhibition entitled, “The Armature of Emotion.” Gummer, husband to three-time Academy Award winner Meryl Streep, has generously donated his time and talent to the walls of Fairfield’s Walsh Art Gallery.

Gummer explained, “I was contacted through Linda WolkSimon, the curator of the museum, who asked me if I would be interested in presenting an exhibition to Fairfield. She had seen a show of drawings I had on display in the Morrison Gallery, and she became interested in my work and contacted me from there.”

More than a talented artist, Gummer’s charisma and humbleness radiate through his personality. Wanting to be involved with the design of his exhibition, Gummer makes a trip from his home in Salisbury to Fairfield during the week to assist in layout of his pieces within the gallery. Gummer wishes to inspire all who view his gallery. “After seeing the work, I hope that the viewers are intrigued and that one piece hits a point in them to make them want to go back and work,” he said.

Whether it be art, sports or academics, Gummer aspires for all viewers to be moved in such a way that they feel inspired to work harder on their own professions and interests. The exhibition will be open to the public until June 11, and all are encouraged to come and observe these inspiring pieces that have been brought to Stag Nation.

Alicia Phaneuf/The Mirror Wikimedia/Creative Commons

'House of Cards' season four campaigns for viewers

By Colleen O'Connor Vine Editor On Dec. 15 during the Republican debate, a seemingly innocuous campaign ad aired in between questions fielded by the GOP candidates. However, at the end of the thirty second commercial, the viewer sees President Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey), not Donald Trump or Bernie Sanders, sitting in his rightful spot in the Oval Office. “America, I’m only getting started,” says Underwood as he campaigns for re-election in the fourth season of Netflix’s critically acclaimed political drama “House of Cards,” which streamed in its entirety on March 4.

Like other political ads, the “House of Cards” ad boosted morale going into the fourth season. The show picks up right where it left off, with Underwood, the conniving antihero of the series, on the campaign trail in the heat of the primaries trying to sew up the Democratic presidential nomination. However, unlike previous campaigns he’s put together, Underwood is without his wife, Claire (Robin Wright), who walked out on him in the final moments of season three. Underwood continuously provides his own commentary on everything by breaking the fourth wall, an event viewers have come to expect. This breaking of the fourth wall allows a glimpse under the facade that

Underwood puts up to avoid suspicion and also adds clarity to confusion.

Claire Underwood’s growing independence from her husband is part of what makes this season one of the best. She fought her way out from under his shadow and plans on running for Congress in her home state of Texas. Her return home isn’t all she expected, though, as she discovers shocking information her mother has kept from her. Wright’s performance is nothing short of extraordinary in her role as both daughter and estranged wife, and many times her negotiation skills and cunning plans even best her husband.

Michael Kelly, whose performance as Doug Stamper, Underwood’s right hand man and chief of staff was the saving grace of the lackluster third season, returns to his typical scheming ways early on in order to help Frank locate his wife and prevent gossip about Frank’s marital status from spreading. Stamper’s typical lack of emotion and monotonous voice remains unchanged, as does his motivation and drive to do whatever it takes to protect the president, even if it means committing murder.

With the return of journalists Lucas Goodwin (Sebastian Arcelus) and Tom Hammerschmidt (Boris McGiver), it appears that Underwood’s numerous skeletons may make their way out of the closet he has them buried in. Nobody believed Goodwin

when he first brought these concerns to light in the first and second seasons, but with the addition of solid evidence and the help of some surprising sources from Frank’s past who finally go on the record to help bring him down, this latest foray may just be the perfect storm needed to finally serve Frank the justice he deserves.

Much of the allure of this season is tied to the parallels drawn to the current election. The introduction of the Islamic Caliphate Organization and their role in the final episodes of the season eerily mirrors the actions of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant this past year. Similarly, both President Underwood and President Obama must search for candidates to nominate for a swing seat on the Supreme Court in the election year.

The final shot of the season finale, though chilling and thought-provoking, leaves viewers craving a more definitive ending, as there is no real resolution to the problem ICO presents through the hostage crisis.

After a disappointing third season, the fourth season, minus the finale, exceeds all expectations and brings the show back to its original glory. By focusing more on the main plotlines rather than the subplots associated with them, the showrunners have managed to catapult “House of Cards” into a league of its own.

Shea's Study (Abroad) Guide Ch. 6: London's Many Markets

Shea Spiller/The Mirror

By Shea Spiller Abroad Columnist

One of the greatest things about London is that it’s impossible to run out of things to do. No matter what day of the week, there are always museums, shopping, shows, parks and of course, markets.

London has more markets than the average person would know what to do with, ranging from food markets to flower markets to somewhere in between. It can be overwhelming trying to choose from so many options, but here’s a short list of my personal favorites to get you started: Portobello Road Market Where: Notting Hill Known for: Great food, quirky antiques, chic fashion … and its use as a film location in Notting Hill starring Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts.

Can’t miss: Taking a photo in front of the famous ‘blue door’ where Hugh Grant’s character lived in the movie Notting Hill.

Camden Markets Where: Camden Town Known for: Stables Market, which occupies an old horse cavalry – each stable is a different stall of anything ranging from vintage clothing to African jewelry to crêpe stands.

Can’t miss: The Cereal Killer Café – famous in London for being the original cereal bar with any cereal you can imagine at your fingertips (even childhood favorites like Boo-Berries), tasty cereal ‘cocktails’ or loaded hot chocolate topped off with, you guessed it, more cereal.

Leadenhall Market Where: The City Known for: Appearing in “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” as Diagon Alley and later in “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” as the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron.

Can’t miss: Feeling like you took a step back in time to Victorian England with original cobblestones, ironwork and storefronts.

Borough Market Where: South Bank Known for: Fresh produce, amazing meals, delicious desserts … basically a foodie haven.

Can’t miss: Walking over London Bridge (of Fergie fame) to get a breathtaking view of Tower Bridge before eating everything in sight at Borough Market across the street.

Covent Garden Where: West End Known for: Daily street performers outside of the market in front of Saint Paul’s Church and tons of shopping from small stands to Burberry.

Can’t miss: Hitting up one of the only Shake Shacks in London … a little taste of home.

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THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

The Vine

Deer Tick return to their roots with 'Acoustick' show

Andrew DaRosa/The Mirror

By Andrew DaRosa Executive Editor

For the past 12 years, the idea of Americana has been warped by the raucous sounds of Deer Tick, the folk-tinged quintet led by the over-the-top ringmaster, John McCauley. Hailing from Providence, Rhode Island, Deer Tick has quickly become a staple in New England with their modern take on folk rock while interjecting a sense of off-key humor.

After years of touring in sold-out clubs across the globe, the bad boys of Providence have decided to scale down their elaborate, physically-demanding shows in favor of a stripped down “Acoustick” tour that emphasizes the mellow nature of the band rather than their unhinged persona. Fortunately, I took this opportunity the moment the tour was announced and a Hartford stop at the Infinity Hall this past Saturday was announced.

Upon entering the venue, the bareness of the stage was the most intimidating factor as I was used to an abundance of equipment and electronics that came with all the Deer Tick shows I’ve seen previously. Fortunately, I arrived early enough to the venue to be right alongside the edge of the stage and at the foot of the dynamic duo of McCauley and lead guitarist, Ian O’Neill.

Mutual Benefit, the opener for the evening and for the first half of the tour, kicked off the evening with a psychedelic-tinged flair with splashes of folk for good measure that sounded like a southern Tame Impala. Jordan Lee, the lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, quipped with the audience as the crowd energized the group to move past their nervous, distant attitude.

Though when push came to shove, Mutual Benefit pushed the notions of psychedelic folk rock as they delved into the newly released “Not for Nothing,” as well as classics from their 2013 effort, “Love’s Crushing Diamond,” which included the likes of “Golden Wake” and “Strong River.” After some minor heckling from the crowd (one man kept asking, “What year is that Fender from?”), Mutual Benefit took no prisoner as they kept the crowd entertained until the last note of their 40-minute set.

Once McCauley opened a cold bottle of Coors Light and Deer Tick took the stage, the group was all business. McCauley led the group through a rendition of the fan-favorite “Twenty Miles” to open the show, rekindling fond memories of “The Black Dirt Sessions,” an album practically crafted for this form of show. Unfortunately, the crew drew only two numbers from the aforementioned album, including “Mange,” a jam session that drew the main set to a close as drummer Dennis Ryan took out the group in an onslaught of percussive joy.

The real stars of the evening, however, were the rarities that aren't often seen during Deer Tick’s live sets, despite the “Acoustick” tour maintaining a stagnant setlist every night. O’Neill took his hand at the seldom played “Hope is Big,” a spiritual southern successor to the Rolling Stones’ 1971 track, “I Got The Blues.” “Nevada,” another rarity, struck a chord with the audience as McCauley yearned in his raspy desperation for a lost love.

While maintaining a sense of fan service, Deer Tick unfortunately did not take any requests during the course of the evening, but instead packed the set with enticing acoustic renditions of classics including the charmful southern ballad “Art Isn’t Real (City of Sin)” and an emotional take of “Christ Jesus” that had the audience on the verge of tears as McCauley painfully wooed through the chorus.

Deer Tick also managed to bring pieces to life acoustically from their most recent effort, “Negativity,” including a triad of “The Rock,” “Thyme” and “Hey Doll,” which McCauley joked that two songs alone would create positivity and an idea for a pretty interesting experimental album.

For quite a while away, three years to be precise, Deer Tick fans have been clamoring for the next record and the group didn’t disappoint as they offered a sampling of tracks of what is to come. “Only Love” came across as a glorified ballad that left little to be desired, but when the group busted out the Jimmy Buffet influenced number, “Cocktail,” I knew there was something special to come from this upcoming record, which is heavily rumored to be coming this year.

As the night came to a close and a lengthy encore was inevitable as many hits were not yet played, Deer Tick did not disappoint as they ran through hits such as 2013’s “The Dream’s in the Ditch,” The Rolling Stones-inspired “Main Street” and the ultimate Deer Tick classic, “Ashamed.” When it was time to call it a night, McCauley and the gang turned off their table lamps and exited to what had been a generally enthusiastic show that exemplified the best of the folk side of the titular Deer Tick.

Deer Tick will continue to tour under the “Acoustick” tour through April while leaving their summer open to hopely close the last sessions of recording their upcoming release.

'Fuller House' builds on successes of its predecessor

By Miandabu Kalala Contributing Writer Same plot, same setting and same characters, “Fuller House” premiered on Netflix on Feb. 26, recreating the magic of the classic “Full House,” which ran from 1987 to 1995 with the girls from “Full House” now grown and helping each other out.

After D.J. Tanner’s (Candace Cameron Bure) husband dies, she is left with 3 boys and is in need of help. Her sister Stephanie (Jodie Sweetin), her best friend Kimmy Gibbler (Andrea Barber) and Kimmy’s daughter Ramona (Soni Nicole Bringas) move into the Tanner’s childhood home to help with D.J.’s three sons.

While some fans love the idea of rebooting old shows, many others feel like writers can come up with some more original ideas that will also last a lifetime. “It says a lot about our generation’s creativity when we look to the past for good shows,” said Sean Tomlinson ‘19.

Others also feel like they are being forced to like “Fuller House” simply because they were fans of “Full House” as children. “It was funny the first time, I don’t know if it will be funny now,” said Julia Lam ‘19. She felt that it is unnecessary to continue a show that streamed that long ago and fears that the writing and jokes are bound to be repetitive.

With fan service in mind, the pilot episode brings back all the characters of “Full House” as guest stars to warm up the audience and take them down memory lane.

The sitcom is funny in a predictable kind of way with references to scenes from “Full House.” When D.J’s youngest son Tommy Fuller Jr. (Dashiell Messitt) cries in the pilot, the family gathers and sings the same song they sang for Michelle in “Full House.”

Although the plot is the same, there are few differences with “Fuller House,” such as how family time is spent with an increased use of technology. Kids in the show have smartphones or tablets and we see how they learn to spend time together without their devices.

Dave Coulier, reprising his role as Joey Gladstone, guest stars in “Funner House,” the third episode in the season, as a babysitter for the kids so that D.J., Stephanie and Kimmy can go out.

Coulier manages to keep the kids off their devices in a game that he refers to as familyfriendly violence, speaking against the overuse of electronics and encouraging family time, a lesson many need. Overall, just like “Full House,” the new show is family friendly, the acting is good and it is entertaining.

Cooking with Colleen: Stuffed Cabbage

By Colleen O'Connor Vine Editor I always get excited for Irish food as St. Patrick’s Day draws nearer. Some of my favorite meals of all time include corned beef and cabbage accompanied with a potato or two. However, as the years go by, my family’s distaste for cabbage grows stronger and stronger, thus threatening part of my favorite meal. Stuffed cabbage, we found, was an easy fix to this problem. By adding other elements like meat and tomato sauce to the cabbage, it adds a new and interesting flavor to a traditionally bland meal, though I still remain partial to the traditional boiled cabbage.

Stuffed Cabbage Serves 6-8 2 large cabbages 2 lbs hamburg 1 cup rice 1/2 lb salt pork 1 large onion 1 6-oz can tomato paste 5 6-oz cans water 1 tsp salt 3 shakes pepper 2 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon vinegar

Wikimedia/Creative Commons

1. Core cabbage and put the core in about 2 inches of water.

2. Cover and steam for 15 minutes.

3. While the core is steaming, I recommend cooking the rice. Typically, I cook the rice in cold water until it is chewy, which is about 5 to 10 minutes.

4. Mix the hamburg and rice together.

5. Dice the salt pork and sauté until clear and slightly melted.

6. Dice the onion and cook it until it is browned.

7. Add the onion, salt and pepper to the hamburg and rice.

8. Put the rind of salt pork in the bottom of a pan and add broken leaves from the cabbage.

9. Put one tablespoon of hamburg mixture in each leaf and and fold like an envelope and repeat until there are only a few leaves left.

10. Put all of these folded leaves close together in a pan and line the top with the leftovers.

11. Mix the tomato paste, water, salt, pepper, sugar and vinegar.

12. Pour the mixture over the top leaves.

13. Cover and cook at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 90 minutes.

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THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

The Vine

Public Domain/Creative Commons

ashionably airfield

by Nicole Funaro

The warmer temperatures mean that spring is coming soon, and with no threat of snow comes the chance to wear some stylish new shoes just in time for sunnier spring days.

Lace-ups are a huge trend for women this season, and what better way to participate in the trend than to try out some lace-up sandals? A gladiator and cage-style hybrid, lace-up sandal will add a bit of edge to your look while not distracting from your outfit overall.

The best part about these sandals is their versatility; a pair of flat lace-ups can pair with everything from a cute shift dress to your favorite pair of jeans and a casual V-neck tee. Lace-up sandals with a stacked heel can transition from weekend to weekday with ease as it can be paired with everything from distressed boyfriend jeans to your go-to dress to a Bodycon skirt.

Guys can amp up their spring style with some new kicks, as well — Adidas Stan Smiths, to be exact. As with many things in the fashion industry, this classic has seen a revival this year, due in large part to styles like the Stan Smith or Superstar being worked into Fashion Week street style looks.

Named after legendary tennis player Stan Smith, this sleek, unobtrusive sneaker makes a great casual pair of shoes to wear off the tennis court with jeans, shorts or even khakis. While Stan Smiths typically come in stark white, the Superstar style may be better for those who like to add a little more color into their looks. Available in every color from neon to gold, these sneakers will easily add a pop of color to your outfits.

The weather is just starting to heat up as we approach spring, and with these great styles, so too will your style.

Flickr/Creative Commons

Stan Smiths.(above) are Adidas' newest sneaker.

Wikipedia/Creative Commons

Heard It Through The GrapeVINE

By Andrew DaRosa Executive Editor

This week’s “Heard it through the GrapeVINE” is Professor Michelle Farrell, an Associate Professor of Modern Languages.

Despite traveling every week from the Big Apple, Professor Farrell still maintains her roots through her music taste, which takes on a trilingual element. When Professor Farrell isn't teaching one of her seven classes, she conducts research language and cultural pedagogy in Cuba, Brazil and Venezuela.

“These are my songs; obviously I also like contemporary music as well, but these are the ones that I go to feel happy, strong, reflect or smile” said Farrell. Now, let’s check out what Professor Farrell’s go-to songs are.

Indigo Girls - Least Complicated “This song makes me feel powerful.”

Rusted Root - Send Me On My Way “It reminds me of my college a-capella group, I love the beat, and for whatever reason, is a song that completely clears my head.”

Luis Enrique - Yo no sé mañana “I love the salsa version of this song. As you may know, I love to dance, and the lyrics of the song just remind me to dance and live in the moment.”

Tony Vega - Aparentamente “This is an oldie, but goodie. It is a salsa song that whenever it comes on in my salsa group, I don't pay any attention to the steps and just want to sing. I get in trouble for that.”

Aretha Franklin - Natural Woman “I have loved this song since I was a kid. It is so powerful. Always wanted to choreograph a dance to it.”

Oscar D’León - Llorarás “He is THE voice of Venezuela. I fell in love with this song like I did with the country, there is no one like Oscar D’León.”

Do you want to be featured in this section? Please email a list of 5-7 songs that you currently enjoy and also a picture that we can use for the column to vine@fairfieldmirror.com.

Contributed Photo Professor Michelle Farrell (above)

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THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

The Vine

'Manon Lescaut' is beautifully reimagined for audiences

By Brendan Zimmerman Assitant Vine Editor

“Manon Lescaut,” the world famous operatic tale of tragic love premiered at Fairfield University through the Met Live program. A program that proved to be practical and entertaining, patrons were able to experience a world class opera by simply sitting in the Regina A. Quick Center for the Performing Arts and watching the live broadcast.

Starring the soprano Kristine Opolais as the titular character and tenor Roberto Alagna as her impassioned lover, this version of “Manon Lescaut” proves to be an exciting and classy affair to viewers.

“Manon Lescaut” was broadcast through the Met Live program, which presents live operas through the accessibility of the movie theater. Being a broadcast, the actors and director were able to be interviewed live in between acts, which gave viewers an in depth look into the workings of the production.

Originally written by the famous Italian composer Giacomo Puccini in the late 1800s, “Manon Lescaut” is beautifully reimagined by director Richard Eyre as the setting now takes place in German occupied France during World War II. Taking the common narrative arc of doomed love, Eyre injects a noir feel to the production with a new setting reminiscent of classic Hollywood films and a heap of political undertones. Viewing this version, one could imagine film noir legends Humphrey Bogart or Barbara Stanwyck taking the roles of the main characters.

The story follows a French student named Des Grieux, who spends his days reading and flirting with ladies around Paris hoping to one day find the love of his life. That day comes when Manon Lescaut arrives in Paris with her overbearing brother, as she is traveling to join a convent in France. The two meet and instantly fall in love, but their relationship becomes uncertain when an old, cruel eyed tax collector named Geronte intends to kidnap Manon for himself.

Divided into four acts, the story follows the two lovers as they run away from Paris, split from each other, and are eventually captured by German soldiers. Their reunion is marred by the the tragedy of their circumstance, as they desperately attempt to flee their fate of being shipped to a prison camp.

Throughout the production there are a multitude of bombastic, yet beautiful sets that do little to convey the oppression of France during World War II, but still act as a classy touch to the production overall. Paired with the beautiful and emotive sounds of the orchestra, led by conductor Fabio Luisi, the setting still provides the perfect backdrop for the actors to flourish.

“Manon Lescaut,” through the Metropolitan Opera, is a beautiful reimagining of an old classic. With a fresh noir feel to the production in combination with the tremendous performances of the actors and the beautiful sets, “Manon Lescaut” is highly entertaining.

Inkwell Spotlight 'Mist'

By Marc Lee Executive Editor at The Inkwell I stepped out of the worn down yellow cab, into a white darkness. For a minute, the headlight beams exploded into fractals as they tried to pierce through the fog cloud that was the island in front of me, but as the cab turned away, the beams disappeared, leaving shadows in their place. I stepped forward slowly, letting my eyes adjust, blinking back the murkiness from before me. In the distance I could make out buildings, large and old, as if I’d stepped into a black and white film featuring an abandoned estate manor.

Walking toward these buildings, I suddenly felt the coolness of water on my hands and face, no raindrops fell, no storm clouds appeared, but the mist was gathering onto me. It was the embrace of the island, welcoming me with its own upright baptism. The mist engulfed me and the seven tolls of the bell tower, hidden in the dark, became the blessing. Then, all at once, I began to see lights dotting to my left and right, a gazebo, pale as a ghost against the morning fog, illuminated my left, a cross and shrine to my right, and the buildings themselves began peeking back at me with eyes, half shuttered, made from lamps on upper stories beginning the day.

I paused for a moment. Standing still, I looked out through the mist once more, and listened as I did. The island was small, and I could hear the echo of the gently crashing waves surrounding me. I was alone for the moment, alone with my thoughts and the early morning. The people inside just waking up wouldn’t bother me or even see me, but they wouldn’t feel the mist either, and they wouldn’t feel the peace of an early morning out on a small island.

So, I waited for the sun to rise, and, as it rose, the warmth it brought began to burn away the mist and the fog. With a bittersweet feeling in my chest, I turned away, knowing that the mist would stay with me in memory. The orange glow of morning shone past me, illuminating the path, and the black and white manor now dazzled with reds and yellows as the island itself finally wiped away the last wisps of sleep.

Wikimedia/Creative Commons

'Zootopia' charms viewers of all ages

By James Della Rocca Contributing Writer

The zoo’s on the loose in "Zootopia,” the newest Disney animated film released on March 4. The story follows police officer bunny Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) as she investigates the disappearances of several mammals in the animal run metropolis Zootopia with her fox friend Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman). Within the main story of the investigation, “Zootopia” explores the relationship between Hopps and Wilde and the prejudice and stereotypes that are placed upon them and the animals living in the city.

The film mainly takes place in two settings — Hopps’ hometown of Bunnyborrow and the many environments of Zootopia. The settings in Zootopia were one of the best parts of the movie. Only in a town devoted to the coexistence of animals could animators create a city with sections like Tundratown next to Sahara Square and a Rainforest District a car ride away. The different boroughs of Zootopia are excellently designed, especially the town center, Savannah Central with its many buildings and large, dense population and the Rainforest District with all the detailed plant life present.

One of the biggest themes of the film deals with the prejudice that is found throughout the city of Zootopia. This is exhibited through the underlying mistrust of predators by prey and vice versa. This prejudice even infects the friendship between Hopps and Wilde at one point in the movie. The city’s prejudice comes to a head when the predators (who are outnumbered 10 to 1 by prey) start to be discriminated against by the prey majority.

The best jokes in the movie were the references made to popular culture and all the puns that were made of contemporary companies. Two of the easiest-to-catch references were the Mr. Big the Godfather-like crime boss shrew and the DMV (Department of Mammal Vehicles in the film) run entirely by the sloths. Even though the Mr. Bigs-Godfather sloth-DMV references would go over the younger children’s heads, the older viewers will understand. The company puns that I thought were the funniest were Zuber and Hoof Locker, Uber and Foot Locker respectively.

There were a few allusions in the form of jokes to Disney’s previous movies. The pirated DVD sales weasel was named Duke Weaselton, ala “Frozen’s” Duke of Weselton voiced by the same actor, Alan Tudyk. It was a nice nod to those who have seen both movies. Some of the DVDs that he sold included Pig Hero 6 (“Big Hero 6”) and Wreck-It Rhino (“Wreck-It Ralph”).

The film was a good balance of a buddy cop movie, serious cop drama and dealing with issues of prejudice and stereotyping. “Zootopia” appeals to older and younger generations alike with its sophisticated handling of topics like prejudice and stereotypes with the comedy sprinkled throughout.

Coffee Break

THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

COFFEE BREAK

Page 12

Editor: Alexis DiZenzo

Goodbye class of 2016

Editor-in-Chief Emeritus: Patrick Kiernan If I were to travel back in time and relive my four years at Fairfield, the only change I’d make would’ve been to join The Mirror my freshman year rather than my sophomore year. I can truly say that I have never been a part of a club that meant so much to me, nor did I ever think that this would be possible. To anyone considering joining The Mirror, I strongly urge you to do so (yes, this is a subtle plug). The writing experience will be cumbersome, but the bonds you shall make are absolutely worthwhile. After spending most of every Monday and Tuesday in The Mirror office, I have learned so much about the rest of my staff, and know that we can confide in each other and enjoy each other’s company to the fullest. To me, this was just as valuable, if not more, than checking off another résumé builder.

As far as my relationship with my editorial board goes (Meaghan and Angela), they have sincerely grown to be the two sisters I never had. We have been forced to make tough decisions together concerning campus issues, and I always had full faith in their opinions and discernment. At the same time, I know I can tell them anything outside of the office, good or bad, and we can all have a good laugh about it. Aside from that, my past three years at The Mirror have served as the best way possible to forego my college days of monotony. Now having to leave, I almost feel metaphorically attached by the hip, and know it will be tough to sever the tie. To the new staff, I have full-fledged hope in each and every one of you. I can sleep soundly knowing that the paper is in capable hands, and look forward to seeing the print edition, and online progression, week after week. Hone the marvelous craft that journalism is, and run wild with it this coming year.

Executive Editor Emeritus: Meaghan Conlon I find it hard to believe that in just a couple months, I will be graduating. My past four years here have flown by and now, as I take a moment to reflect back on my time both at Fairfield and The Mirror, I realize how lucky and grateful I am for having the chance to get involved in the newspaper. I wish I had taken the opportunity to join the Mirror my freshman year, instead of being too nervous and backing out after going to the first meeting. I was still trying to figure out who I was and what I wanted to do with my life. I can’t say I’m 100 percent certain even now, but I think at least I have some type of direction. If nothing else, I have confidence in myself and skills — and I owe that to my time here on this paper. I have loved being a part of the Mirror these past three years — from contributing writer to Opinion Editor to Executive Editor — I have grown in terms of who I am and what I can do. Each up and down — and there have been some ups and downs — has been a learning opportunity. What may have been overwhelming at the time is now just another example of something that can be conquered when you have the support of others.

And if there is something that we have an abundance of at The Mirror, it’s support and friendship. I cannot tell you where I would be without my two fellow members on Editorial Board, Pat and Angela. We’re more than just co-workers, we’re best friends — and a strong team. Our time here has brought us closer and I wish them both the best of luck as we part ways and enter the real world (though I’m sure we’ll meet up for drinks, if Pat feels like joining us). If we’re going to get sappy with goodbyes, I also want to wish everyone else at The Mirror staff, old and new, the best of luck as they enter a new era of leadership. You guys have all made Monday and Tuesday nights so much fun and, even though some days were more stressful than others, you always pulled through. So, my parting words — not just to The Mirror staff, but to everyone — would be to take advantage of every opportunity you have and make some great friends along the way. And to those who made my time and experience here worthwhile, from the bottom of my heart, I thank you.

Managing Editor Emeritus: Angela Sammarone Change terrifies me. I feel anxious at the thought of a chapter of my life ending with no sense of direction of where life may take me next. But as worrisome as change may make me, I welcome it as a chance to reflect on how some seemingly small decisions affect my life, like when I walked into The Mirror office three years ago. I never anticipated that a campus club would change my life as it did. I was timid when I first came to Fairfield, looking to find my niche. I signed up for everything at the Activities Fair that first September — even The Mirror — but was too intimidated to show up to a meeting. I’ll never know what convinced me my sophomore year to make my way down to the lower level of the BCC, but I attribute it all to fate; somehow, it’s as if the universe knew that I needed The Mirror. I could talk endlessly about why I love The Mirror, but almost all of those reasons have one value in common: community. When I graduate in May, I won’t be leaving The Mirror behind — I’ll be joining a network of equally passionate alumni. But in all honesty, it’s the community that was created within the four walls of our office that I treasure the most and I feel incredibly grateful to call the individuals who work for The Mirror not my fellow co-workers, but my friends. In particular, I want to express my appreciation for my two wonderful members of the Editorial Board, Pat and Meaghan. You both have had my back whenever I needed either of you, supported the occasional crazy ideas I came up with and most of all, you’ve made my experience on The Mirror unforgettable. This transition is an incredibly bittersweet moment; while I’ll miss our late night bonding and the laughs we have all shared on staff, I know that The Mirror will remain a part of my life far beyond May 22, 2016. To the new staff, I don’t need to wish you all luck because I know firsthand that each of you are equipped with the skills and talent needed to continue the excellency of our paper. But if there’s any advice I can give from one former Mirrorite to another, it’s to continue to strengthen this community because in four years, I can attest that it’s The Mirror that has made me consider Fairfield my home.

Sports

Page 13

THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

SPORTS

Sports Editor: Alfredo Torres » sports@fairfieldmirror.com

NHL playoff contenders look to make final push at season's end

By Joseph Imbriani Contributing Writer

As we near the end of March, many teams are making their case to be in the playoffs throughout the NHL. It has been an uneven season for a lot of teams, but as of late, a few have really stood out.

The Anaheim Ducks started the season very poorly, but have become a force to be reckoned with.

Close to the midway point in the season, they had a lousy at best record of 12-15-6 and forwards Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry and Ryan Kesler along with goalie Frederick Andersen were all underperforming.

Now the goals are starting to pile up and Andersen looks like the goalie that led the Ducks to the Western Conference Final last year.

His goals against average since the 12-15-6 start is 2.06 which is top three in the NHL since then.

From mid-January to early March, the Ducks have gone 17-2-1 and are seated 5th in the Western Conference, so it’s fair to say they have turned their season around.

A team that is regressing and is out of the playoff picture is the Montreal Canadiens.

They have gone from a dominant team that started 19-43 and was dominating the entire eastern conference, to a subpar team at 32-31-6 that really can’t find a way to string together wins.

The biggest problem for the Habs was losing goalie Carey Price to a lower body injury on November 25th against the New York Rangers in late November.

Mike Condon has done a pretty

good job coming in and taking a huge majority of the workload, but he is certainly no Carey Price and it has shown not only through his goaltending, but also with the rest of the team.

As we get closer to the playoffs, we should also look into teams that could make a run at the Stanley Cup. The first team that comes to mind right now is the Boston Bruins.

They are in the midst of a rocky season, but it has been a career year for Patrice Bergeron, Brad Marchand and Loui Eriksson.

The Bruins have been playing well away all season long with a record of 23-7-3, which is the best in the NHL, and if Tuukka Rask can heat up like he did back in the 2013 playoffs, they could end up right

back in the Stanley Cup Finals.

The only thing holding them back is their defense. The Bruins are in the bottom half of the league when it comes to goals against and if a team can stay sharp in the postseason, it can change the tone for an entire series.

The other team that can make a playoff run ending with them hoisting the cup would be the defending champions, the Chicago Blackhawks.

They are by far the most experienced team when it comes to the playoffs and making deep playoff runs, as many of the players on their current team have been a part of at least one of the three Stanley Cup winning teams in the last six years.

Patrick Kane is having a career year, and players like Jonathan

Toews, Duncan Keith, Brent Seabrook and Corey Crawford can really heat up at any time and can make a huge difference for their team in any given series.

What’s different with this Blackhawks team compared to last year’s team is that they are missing a few of the key players.

This past offseason, Patrick Sharp, Brandon Saad and Johnny Oduya made their departures from Chicago and these were all guys that had major impacts in the Stanley Cup Finals last year.

By the looks of it, the end of this season is certainly going to be full of drama with all of the teams that are still in it.

If the season ended today, my picks for the Stanley Cup Finals are going to be the Washington Capitals and the Los Angeles Kings.

Highlights of the Week: After a disappointing end to the season, that saw the Fairfield University women’s basketball team fall in the quarterfinals of the MAAC Tournament against the Monmouth Hawk, Fairfield will be back in action in a national postseason tournament as they were selected to participate in the Women’s Basketball Invitational. This is the fifth time in the last seven seasons that the Stags will play in the postseason. Fairfield will travel to Maryland to take on the University of Maryland Baltimore County on Thursday, March 17.

This week in sports: Wednesday, March 16 Men's Basketball vs New Hampshire, 7 p.m.

Thursday, March 17

Freshmen Colin Burke earned his second Colonial Athletic Association Rookie of the Week award of the season. In two games, Burke was able to connect for seven goals for the Stags. Burke is currently leading the team with 17 goals and 21 total points. Burke also ranks second in the CAA in goals per game with 2.43 per game and third in points per game with 3 per game. Fairfield will be back on the field on Saturday, March 19 when they travel to take on Colgate.

Softball vs. Stony Brook, 2:30 p.m.

Friday, March 18 Baseball at Delaware, 3 p.m.

Saturday, March 19 Junior Riley Hellstein of the Fairfield University women’s lacrosse team was named a MAAC Student-Athlete of the Week. Hellstein was also named the MAAC Player of the Week last week. In just two games, the midfielder scored 13 goals and added three assists for a total of 16 points. Hellstein currently leads the team with 31 points, 28 goals and 29 draw controls this season. The Stags are back in action on Saturday, March 19 against UConn.

Softball vs. Providence, 10:30 a.m.

Men's Lacrosse at Colgate, 12 p.m.

Women's Lacrosse at Connecticut, 1 p.m.

Baseball at Delaware, 1 p.m.

Softball vs. Holy Cross, 2:30 p.m.

Despite coming up short against Monmouth in the semifinals of the MAAC Tournament on Sunday, March 6, Fairfield University men’s basketball team has accepted an invitation to the CollegeInsider.com Postseason Tournament. The Stags will see postseason action for the fifth time in the last seven seasons. Fairfield will host the University of New Hampshire on Wednesday, March 16 at the friendly confines of Alumni Hall.

Men's Tennis at Niagara, 6 p.m.

Women's Tennis at Niagara, 6 p.m.

Sunday, March 20 Photos contributed by Sports Information Desk

In this week's issue...

- Curry's dominance brings criticism (Page 14) - Fairfield's Dance Fusion enjoys success (Page 15) - March Madness Preview (Page 15) - Fairfield club hockey advances to nationals (Page 16)

Baseball at Delaware, 12 p.m Softball vs. Holy Cross, 12:30 p.m.

Softball at Stony Brook, 2:30 p.m.

Tuesday, March 22 Baseball vs. Hartford, 3 p.m.

Men's Lacrosse vs. Quinnipiac, 7 p.m.

Sports

Page 14

THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

Curry's dominance brings criticism

By Amanda Hajjar Contributing Writer

Flickr/Creative Commons

In his sixth season, Stephen Curry looks to earn his second consecutive MVP award as he currently leads the league with 30.4 points per game. Curry's Warriors hold a 60-6 record.

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

Patrick Kiernan Editor-in-Chief Emeritus (Still Boss?)

Alfredo Torres Sports Editor

How was Spring Break?

Your 2015-2016 4x5 Columnists:

Patrick Kiernan, Alfredo Torres, Angela Sammarone and Jesse Erickson Predictions for today's men's basketball game against UNH:

Who do you think would make a better mascot? Donald Trump or Bernie Saunders?

With spring near, are you excited for baseball/softball season?

Really awesome. Drank an average It had to happen. For him and his of eight beers every day. That's not five-head both. me trying to be hardo, it just happened. Oh, and I ate like two pies of pizza from the BEST pizza place you'll ever find. Primanti's in Ft. Lauderdale, check it out.

We're gonna win 100-37. Bold prediction, I know, but just trust me.

I'll take either of them to replace the condor that the Clippers now have. Just when you thought mascots couldn't get scarier than the Pelicans bird, there comes the condor. Gives me nightmares.

I'm excited for baseball so all the players can hit field goals and score some baskets. I'm excited for softball so they can score some touchdowns and maybe luckily get a hole-in-one.

Nothing better than staying home and enjoying some good home cooked meals from momma herself. Got puppies now so that's great company to have.

Respect to Peyton and all he has done. Finished his career with a championship, no better way to go out.

"Winning" (Charlie Sheen Voice) After losing a tough one to Monmouth, we're looking to bounce back and what better way than winning a game at home.

I agree with Pat, the Clipper's condor is just terrible. Even Trump would be better, but no one can beat my guy Lucas the Stag.

Hey if we win, I'll be happy. So c'mon baseball and softball, win some games for me!

Spent my days in LA and Las

So is he ending his career on top or will he continued to be overshadowed by his brother?

WIN!

Well more people would laugh at Donald Trump ... and he'd really get the people riled ... in anger, but does that really matter?

LET'S GO METS! Oh ... you meant Fairfield teams ... yeah, let's go Stags.

One week into being EIC and I already wish I was Peyton Manning.

We are still playing basketball?

Well, I must say this is quite impressive and I am so excited for them and I hope they win and get to go to DisneyWorld.

Donald Trump would make a better mascot because in a weird costume of himself he would be easy to push over and throw popcorn and beer at.

I was looking forward to it today until I was driving past the field and the ball missed my windshield by an inch ... I really need a new car and that hit would've been a homerun.

Meaghan Conlon Vegas getting "tan" (read as: sunburned). Saw Ludacris in a club Exeuctive Editor Emeritus and DJ Khaled filiming a com-

What are your thoughts on Peyton Manning retiring?

An athlete so good, even the 2K video game developers could not figure out how to properly virtualize him.

Yet still, Stephen Curry and his first place Golden State Warriors find themselves to be the subject of criticism from past NBA players and legends.

According to ESPN, NBA legend Oscar Robertson said, “I just don’t think coaches today in basketball understand the game of basketball. They don’t know anything about defenses. They don’t know what people are doing on the court. [Curry] has shot well because of what’s going on in basketball today.”

Robertson continued to criticize current NBA defenses as he later added, “I look at games today, and they’ll start a defense at the foul line. When I played, they were picking you up when you got the ball inbounds.”

Hall of Famer Kareem Abdul-Jabbar agreed with these statements, according to ESPN. Robertson was not the only one who had a few words for Curry and the Warriors.

Stephen Jackson, who played on the 2006-2007 Warriors squad that upset the number one seeded Dallas Mavericks in the first round of the playoffs that year, said that his old Warriors team could beat this current team.

Cedric Ceballos who played for the 1993-1994 Phoenix Suns also chimed in to say that his former team could have beaten this year’s Warriors.

He mentioned that his team would know how to contain Curry. “That's one thing these teams don’t do: they do not expose Steph and the way he plays defense. I don’t think we would have a problem with this Golden State team,” Ceballos said.

At first, Curry tried to brush these comments off. Current Warriors center Andrew Bogut tweeted out that the Australian U-14 team could beat the Warriors in which Curry and Draymond Green, current Warriors forward, both playfully responded back.

However, Curry did address these comments.

He told the Warriors Plus/Minus, “It’s starting to get a little annoying just because it’s kind of unwarranted from across the board.”

Warriors coach Steve Kerr did not let his team, especially Curry, be criticized continuously. According to ESPN Kerr said, “A player from any era would be unable to guard Steph Curry. It doesn’t matter who you’re talking about. No one could guard Steph Curry.

He’s too quick, too skilled, too good. You can make all sorts of other arguments. In the ‘90s, there were all types of dominant big men. There aren’t many these days, that’s true.

The game was different then. There’s more ball movement, there’s more liked-sized players on the court. So things change, but I just can’t see how anybody would think that Steph would have been guardable 30 years ago, 20 years ago, whatever.”

As for Curry, he’s shown no signs of slowing down. He’s already tied his own record for most three’s in a game and has already broken his own record for most three’s in a season — this is all with 16 games left in the regular season. The Warriors as a team continue to roll. They sit atop the NBA with a 60-6 record and have already clinched a playoff spot, the fastest in NBA history.

merical so it was a good time.

Jesse Erickson Editor-in-Chief (Italian EIC)

Update: I turned 21. I am still here, alive and breathing. In other news, my dog was attacked and the week was not so good because he's my lover and life.

Sports

Page 15

THE MIRROR | Week of March 16, 2016

Fairfield's Dance Fusion enjoys success

Contributed by Erin Fleming

Fairfield's Dance Fusion, which has 18 members, (not all pictured) has been enjoying their most successful season yet, taking the gold in both of their competitions this past season.

By Jesse Erickson Editor-in-Chief Although several of Fairfield’s athletic teams fell short this season, Fairfield’s Dance Fusion, a competitive dance club on campus, was able to take home the gold several times.

Composed of 18 female members, FDF is a student-run club that was started back in 2013 by a group of students. The group practices once a week for two hours at an off-campus studio, focusing mainly on jazz and contemporary dances, according to senior co-captain Micaela Moffa.

Fairfield offers many different outlets for those interested in dance including

the Fairfield Dance team, Fairfield University’s dance ensemble and then FDF. Fairfield’s dance team performs at every home basketball game, which helps them distinguish themselves from the other two clubs; however, FUDE and FDF are often confused as being one in the same, according to FDF member Erin Fleming ‘17.

“FDF is a competitive dance club/team.

There are pretty hard auditions and interviews. We only practice once a week, so all of the girls have to be well trained dancers,” said Fleming. “FUDE is a dance club, it welcomes everyone and anyone who loves to dance. There is only one recital and it really is all about having fun and dancing.”

FDF competes in competitions against other colleges and universities.

Moffa has been apart of FDF since its start and she stated that their 2015-2016 season has been their most successful one yet. The group competed in two different competitions this year with one taking place at Central Connecticut State University and another at SUNY Cortland.

“At CCSU we competed just our jazz dance and won first place in our division.

At SUNY Cortland, we were lucky enough to compete a total of four dances, two lyrical dances, one jazz dance and a contemporary dance,” stated Moffa. “We came in first in all these divisions, as well as coming in second in lyrical, having only to beat

ourselves.” The competitions mean a lot for the team, as they have only had 3 years to grow their club.

“We are a student-run competitive team. Our captains Amanda and Micaela run every practice and drill every routine,” said Fleming. “So, to win first place at our competitions is the most amazing and rewarding feeling.”

As competition season comes to an end, the club is already looking ahead to bettering themselves for the upcoming year. Several core seniors will be graduating from the team, including both captains, but they are hopeful to carry on with the growth that they have seen over the years.

March Madness Preview: 68 teams, one winner

By Daniel Montgomery Assistant Sports Editor The 2016 National Collegiate Athletic Association Tournament is finally upon us.

An exhilarating college basketball season defined by parity among the nation’s best programs has cumulated into the 68 team tournament that captivates the country’s attention for three weeks.

As so called “experts” endlessly scrutinize the field of teams and determine who they think will earn a trip to Houston in April, millions of brackets are made and money is blindly thrown into pools picking hopeful winners.

Make sure your recliner is working and snacks are ready because as history has showed us, nothing short of madness will ensue in the coming weeks.

To start with, it is only fair to recognize the teams that barely missed the cut to make it into this loaded group of 68. St. Bonaventure, Saint Mary’s and most notably, Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference rival Monmouth were snubbed from this year's tournament as they were unable to secure an at-large bid to the dance.

Although each team had a remarkable season, the committee deemed their tournament resume isn’t strong enough to compete with the mediocre big boys from major conferences such as Vanderbilt, Michigan and Syracuse.

For the teams who were selected to participate in the tourney, the field is highlighted by traditional blue bloods Kansas and North Carolina, both of whom garnered a number one seed.

After winning their respective conference tournament titles, each squad is primed to compete for yet another championship in their program’s storied history.

On the other hand, resurgent Virginia and upstart Oregon earned the other two number one seeds in the bracket.

With that said, there has only been one time in the NCAA Tournament’s 76-year history where all number one seeds have reached the Final Four.

So it is a pretty solid bet that one or multiple of the aforementioned teams will not be making an appearance in Houston.

That leaves us with the outsiders, the teams who certainly have enough talent to

cut down the nets, but may not have been able to put it all together during the regular season.

This group starts with second seeded Michigan State, a program who seemingly finds a spot in college basketball’s last weekend each and every year.

With a roster filled with stud upperclassmen, nobody will be surprised if the Spartans are playing basketball in April once again.

The reigning national champion Duke Blue Devils are back as a four seed, but no team wants to see this group in the tournament as the Durham boys have one of the most talented groups in the country.

Not to be forgotten, the underappreciated crew at Kentucky returns to the dance as the four seed despite being dangerous as ever to once again hoist the trophy.

And now to everyone’s favorite part, the upset alerts.

The underdog schools that stun the tournament headliners and make news of their own, creating the madness that America craves each March.

The 12th seeded Chattanooga Mocs have a shot at knocking off fifth seeded Indiana in the first round with a host of speedy guards that could really cause the Hoosiers trouble.

14th seeded Fresno State has a slight, yet possible chance to send third seeded Utah back to Salt Lake with their cold-blooded shooters.

And finally, do not be taken aback if 12th seeded Yale bests fifth seeded Baylor.

The Ivy League plays well in the tournament and Yale is one of the best teams the Ivy League has produced in a long time.

No matter what transpires over the next few weeks, the NCAA Tournament will provide us with some of the most exciting moments and unbelievable performances we have ever seen.

The cream of the crop will rise to the top, unless the underdog makes March truly special and provides us what we all love to see, utter madness.

Youtube/Creative Commons

@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports Week of March 16, 2016

fairfieldmirror.com

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

Fairfield hockey advances to nationals

Contributed by Brendan O'Malley Fairfield's men's club ice hockey team has had yet another impressive season, making another run at Nationals. Their performance this season has qualified them as seventh in the nation in their division.

By Jesse Erickon Editor-in-Chief Fairfield’s men’s club ice hockey team had a superb ending to their season as they advanced to nationals for the second season in a row.

Unlike last year, however, the Stags did not earn the automatic bid to the national tournament and were forced to take this possible opportunity to regionals.

Heading into regionals, the team looked to get the national bid. Fairfield had a lot to overcome in order to get this win.

They finished second in their conference, the Empire Collegiate Hockey Conference and this second place finish ranked them as number six seed as they headed into the regional tournament.

As the team prepared for the regional tournament, something about the team had changed.

For the majority of their season and the entire fall semester, the team was missing a huge piece.

Several juniors had studied abroad during the fall, but returned on time for the most vital part of the season.

“We finished off the first semester

ranked 4th in the Atlantic and set ourselves up nicely for them to get back and to finish the season strong,” said captain Brendan O’Malley ‘15. “When they came back, it was like they didn't miss a beat. It was obvious they [juniors] were dying to get back and to lace them up again.”

While the bulk of the team returned and the rest of them conditioned and skilled, the team first took on No. 7 ranked University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown and easily took them down, 6-2, which advanced them to the next round of the regional tournament.

The Stags then took on the No. 3 ranked team, Neumann College.

The fight was not easy for either team and headed into the third period, the game was tied 2-2, but the Stags impressively took the game 5-2 in the third.

“As the number 6 seed, there were no expectations for us. The league had us written off and thought Neumann was a shoo in,” said O’Malley. “We battled hard for 60 minutes and beat Neumann 5-2 proving we not only deserved a shot at the national title, but that we also were going to make a good run at it.”

The win over Neumann placed them in Pool D for the national tournament

down in Grand Rapids, Michigan where they were scheduled to take on three different schools: Colorado State, the University of Tampa and Aquinas College.

Ranked as No. 4 in this pool, the Stags first took on No. 1 ranked Colorado State.

In the end, there was no winner despite overtime play, but because the team was able to hold Colorado from getting the win, each team was awarded one point in the tournament.

After one tough challenge, another one came as the Stags took on No. 2 Tampa and for the first time in club history, the team got their first national victory, taking down Tampa 4-2.

Sophomore Scott Kohlhepp knocked in one of the goals for the team. Kohlhepp has stepped up for the Stags, leading his team with 18 goals.

In their final game against Aquinas, the Stags were not able to execute the win, but saw efforts from team members all over the board, like Kyle Marano ‘19 and goalie Pete Alvaras ‘17.

The Stags fell short in their final game of the national tournament, but it is the farthest the team has gotten so far.

“I couldn’t be any more proud of how we stepped up to play a ACHA [American

Collegiate Hockey Association] powerhouse in Aquinas. That game could have gone either way and proved that we can skate with the best in the nation,” said O’Malley. “Very disappointing to lose, but also very promising for what the future holds for this program.”

Next season, the team will be graduating seven seniors, but will be returning with stronger freshman, sophomores and juniors.

With all efforts and talents on deck, the Stags are already looking to get back on the ice to get the win in their own conference, the regional conference and then, of course, the national tournament.

The obstacle of taking the national title gets closer every year, as they are now ranked 7th in the nation of 150 teams for their division.

“I think this team has a great group of guys returning next year and I know they’re going to make a solid run at next year’s national tournament,” said O’Malley, “I’d do anything to be a part of it for one more year.”

Contributed by Brendan O'Malley The Stags expect to make another run at nationals as they are returning some key players, including Matthew Peacock '17 and Vin Rella '17 and Scott Kohlhepp '18 who leads his team with goals.