Fairfield Mirror 9/23/2015

Steel Pulse

Men’s Soccer

Are we reflecting too little on the lives lost on 9/11?

Steel Pulse sweeps Fairfield with the Rasta fever.

The Stags dropped their home opener to Fordham at a score of 3-2.

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THE MIRROR Independent student newspaper

Week of September 23, 2015

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Vol. 41 Iss. 4

Fairfield prepares for pope’s visit

By Zachary Durso Contributing Writer

Wikipedia/Creative Commons Pope Francis will be addressing the United States in Philadelphia on Sept. 27.

Students all over the country are sharing their experience with Jesuit education this month, generating a large amount of hype surrounding the visit of Pope Francis to the United States. This month, Fairfield is cooperating with over 20 Jesuit institutions across the U.S. in a #JesuitEducated campaign.

The University’s presence in the campaign is best found on social media. Using the hashtag #JesuitEducated, the University is showcasing photos, blogs, stories, and more from students who have been touched by Jesuit education.

These posts highlight the value of Jesuit education overall, and generate a great deal of hype for the Jesuit pope.

Senior Allanah Dykes will be spearheading this campaign, using her social media platforms to spread the news about Jesuit education, and document

her own experience on her trip to New York City on Sept. 25 to see the pope. Dykes was one of 50 students across the country to be selected by @PopeIsHope to be part of a “Digital Street Team,” which covers and shares stories about the event through social media. The Magnificat Foundation and Aleteia, a Christian faith network, selected these students.

Dykes explained that other than studying abroad, this was one of the most meaningful Fairfield experiences to her. “I would say that these events are very exciting, the new pope is very accepting of everyone regardless of their race or ethnicity.” She confessed she has not seen the pope before; however, when she studied abroad in London last spring, she and a few friends ventured to Rome during the Easter season.

On Friday, Dykes explained that she “will be going down to Central Park from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with one of my closest friends” and that she will be

“talking to people about Jesuit education, the pope and strength in our daily lives,” conversations that she will then post to various social media accounts.

However, Fairfield’s contribution to this #JesuitEducated campaign will not end online. All over campus there will be various events throughout the week, leading up to a school-sponsored trip to see the pope, when he addresses the US in Philadelphia on Sept. 26. On Thursday, Sept.

24, students and faculty will be shown a live broadcast of the pope’s address to Congress starting at 9 a.m. in the lower level of the Barone Campus Center.

This event will provide an opportunity for students, faculty and staff to watch the speech together. Afterward, there will be a discussion regarding the speech and how it will affect politics in the United States. For students who attend, there will be a light breakfast provided.

READ

STUDENTS ON PAGE 4

By Catherine Veschi News Editor

Fairfield community to not be a spectator: “Fairfield 2020 begins now, and it is a call For a number of years the Freshman to action to all of us to take initiative.” He Convocation has been a tradition at Fair- continued to say that we all must make the field, serving as a means of officially wel- necessary changes to “make Fairfield the university it has the potential to become.” coming new students into the school.

According to Pellegrino, the panel disAnd while this tradition still holds, this year the University has decided to ex- cussion covered such topics as “what the University is doing to increase tend this tradition to all diversity, the efforts to build students, faculty and staff up the University’s programs with the first annual Fall Now it seems for non-traditional students, Convocation. very clear to me new technology in the classOn Sept. 9, roughly that we owe it to 300 people came out to the ourselves and to the room, the ‘value proposition’ of a Fairfield education, the Regina A. Quick Center well-being of our for the Arts according to community to begin campus master plan and so Senior Vice President of every year this way. on.”

Pellegrino also said that Student Affairs Thomas the main objective of the UniPellegrino. The event focused on the future of FairS.J. versity in holding Fall Convocation is to bring Fairfield tofield and the implementagether as a community at the tion of Fairfield 2020.

The Convocation featured a panel dis- beginning of the school year.

“We are in a very important time both cussion led by Pellegrino. Members of the panel included Father Jeffrey von Arx, S.J., in the landscape of higher education, and in Dr. Lynn Babbington, senior vice president Fairfield’s strategic planning for the future. for Academic Affairs and Kevin Lawlor, ex- With transformations this big, and this important, bringing people together as a team ecutive vice president.

Von Arx delivered opening remarks and a community is important,” he said. before the panel began, encouraging the READ FIRST ON PAGE 2

Patrick Kiernan/The Mirror

Alarm causes BCC evacuation

By Catherine Veschi News Editor Last week, on Friday, Sept. 18, an alarm sounded in the Barone Campus Center at approximately noon, causing the evacuation of students, faculty and staff from the building.

Shortly thereafter, the Department of Public Safety and the Fairfield Fire Department responded to the alarm.

Those evacuated from the building were readmitted into the BCC after about 30 minutes.

According to Assistant Director of DPS John Ritchie, the incident was caused by a false alarm, not a fire alarm as many had thought.

“It was not a fire alarm, which is a scheduled test of the fire detection system and evacuation procedures. What we had in the BCC today was a false alarm. There was no visible cause for the activation of a duct detector in the dining room,” Ritchie said.

“We called our service provider to double check the system to ensure all is working well,” he continued.

Ritchie went on to say that false alarms are actually a common occurrence. “Many false alarms are actually caused by dust, insects, etc.

We simply determined there was no smoke or fire present and therefore call it a false alarm.”

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

News

Students walk to support cardiac research

By Juliana Sansonetti Assistant Vine Editor

On Sunday, Sept. 27, the Fairfield chapter of the John Taylor Babbitt Heart Club will hold their fourth annual “Walk with Heart” event to start at the green outside the lower level of the Barone Campus Center. The event will be a 2-mile walk around campus lasting from noon to 2 p.m.

The purpose of the walk is to raise awareness and money for automatic external defibrillators and CPR classes. The registration fee is $15 and registration opens at 11:30 a.m.

The JTB Foundation was created after John Taylor Babbitt, the son of a Fairfield alumnus, collapsed during a basketball game and died from an undiagnosed heart condition called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy at 16.

The foundation, a non-profit organization, has helped to prevent sudden cardiac death by installing defibrillators in schools, sponsoring CPR classes and supporting research on genetic cardiac disorders. The foundation has JTB Heart Club campus chapters at different high schools and colleges, including The Pingry School, Babbitt’s alma mater, Villanova University and Fairfield University.

The Fairfield JTB Heart Club was founded by Sean Donovan ’11, who was a friend of Babbitt’s, Patrick McCahill, Jr. ’12 and Cathleen Keating ‘13.

The current president of the club, Carolyn Scaglione ’16, said, “Our goal is to create awareness for sudden cardiac arrest and raise money for more AEDs on campus, so in the event of an emergency, a life can be saved,” Scaglione added, “The JTB Heart Walk showcases all the locations of AEDs on campus. We are working with DPS to determine the best placement of the new AED we are donating this year.”

The event will be for FYE Inspire credit. Participants will receive a complimentary T-Shirt, lunch and beverages.

First Fall Convocation introduced to Fairfield Continued from page 1 Von Arx feels that the addition of Fall Convocation into the University’s tradition was a smart move, saying, “Now it seems very clear to me that we owe it to ourselves and to the well-being of our community to begin every year this way — in fellowship and celebration — and talking about our plans, hopes and our desires for the coming year.”

Pellegrino agreed that Fall Convocation is the ideal way to

motivate students, faculty and staff for the upcoming year.

“The immediate goal was to both educate and engage our campus community on our strategic plan, and get the University community excited and reengaged for the future ahead of us,” he said.

“We also wanted to make this a discussion that would capture the attention and imagination of the people listening,” Pellegrino continued.

For Pellegrino, Fairfield’s first Fall Convocation was “a positive first step and a model

for future convocations,” noting that the University plans to make Fall Convocation an annual tradition.

According to Pellegrino, students with leadership roles on campus, such as resident assistants and FUSA representatives, were given a special invitation to attend the event.

FUSA President Anif McDonald ’16 attended and felt that Fall Convocation was a beneficial addition the University’s student welcome this school year.

“I thought the new Fall

Convocation was a well-organized event that allowed students to understand what the University is planning for the future,” McDonald said.

McDonald added that the event gave “us as students an idea as to what is going on within the University and how much work they are doing.”

However, he wishes that for future Fall Convocations more students who do not necessarily have leadership roles attend the event “to learn more about Fairfield’s plans to progress.”

THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

News

News: In the United States

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By Catherine Veschi News Editor Compiled by Austin Wesolowski Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.

Thursday, 9/17 8:37 p.m. – A male student was observed by the Department of Public Safety to be walking into the tree line behind the Regis Hall parking lot. When approached, it was determined that the individual was smoking marijuana out of a vaporizer. He led DPS to his room where the resident also had alcohol, drug paraphernalia and an amount of a green, leafy substance that tested positive to be marijuana. The individual was arrested by Fairfield Police and was referred to student conduct.

Friday, 9/18 7:55 p.m. – A motorcycle was tracked by radar traveling at a speed of 75 mph on Leeber Road. The motorcyclist fled from DPS and rode off campus. Fairfield Police assisted DPS in locating the student who denied that he was in operation of the vehicle during the time of the incident. The matter is under investigation by DPS. 10:05 p.m. – Four males outside a townhouse on the 12 block ran inside after being seen “shotgunning” beers outside. They ran inside and refused to open the door until they were identified by DPS and were referred to student conduct.

Saturday, 9/19 1:20 a.m. – Two male non-students were suspiciously waiting in a parked car in the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts parking lot. They were found to be in possession of marijuana along with paraphernalia and a small axe. One of the individuals was arrested by Fairfield Police, and they were both issued criminal trespassing warnings.

3:53 a.m. – Residence Life assisted DPS in Claver Hall when a male student was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia, along with a green leafy substance. The student was arrested by Fairfield Police and was referred to student conduct.

5:35 p.m. – Two male students were found in a physical altercation in Regis, sending one male to the hospital due to a head injury. Both students have been referred to student conduct.

Sunday, 9/20 1:26 a.m. – A female resident in a townhouse on the 15 block reported that someone had entered her house and turned all of the furniture and small kitchen appliances upside down. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact DPS.

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1. Charlottesville, Va. – Six years after Virginia Tech student Morgan Harrington went missing at a concert and was later found dead, the same man found responsible for her murder, Jesse Leroy Matthew Jr., is facing a capital murder charge in the death and disappearance of University of Virginia sophomore Hannah Graham in September 2014.

2. New York City – A Virgin Atlantic airplane wing slammed into a fence at John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens early Saturday, according to Port Authority. Authorities say the incident happened at 8:30 a.m. as Virgin Atlantic Flight 26 was being pushed back from the gate by a tug.

3. Stockton, Calif. –Nine police officers were involved in the forceful arrest of a 16-year-old boy who was accused of jaywalking. The teen’s family filed a formal complaint Thursday over the confrontation.

4. Zion Park, Utah – Seven hikers were killed in a flash flood in a narrow park canyon. The park is investigating what led to the deaths and is reviewing its policies.

5. Phoenix, Ariz. – A $1 million bond was set Saturday for Leslie Allen Merritt in a string of highway shootings that has affected numerous Arizona drivers. He is facing 28 felonies following his arrest Friday. He was charged with four counts each of drive-by shooting, intentional terrorism, discharging a firearm within city limits, aggravated assault, discharging a firearm, criminal damage and disorderly conduct.

6. Boston, Mass. – Authorities have identified a little girl previously known as Baby Doe as Bella Bond; her body was found in a trash bag on a Boston beach three months ago. Her mother was reported to be under arrest on Friday.

7. Charleston, S.C. –Joseph Meek, a friend of the accused South Carolina church shooting defendant Dylann Roof, has been accused of lying to federal agents about what he knew of Roof ’s plans.

8. Atlanta, Ga. – A Georgia police officer was shot in the shoulder during a “running gun battle” near an Atlanta-area gas station Friday afternoon, police said. The bullet wound was characterized as a “through and through.” The officer is conscious and alert at a hospital.

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Patrick Kiernan, Editor-in-Chief Meaghan Conlon, Executive Editor Angela Sammarone, Managing Editor Editors Catherine Veschi, News Britta Gunneson, Assistant News Ariana Puzzo, Opinion Andrew DaRosa, Vine Juliana Sansonetti, Assistant Vine Allison White, Coffee Break Alfredo Torres, Sports Nicole Funaro, Chief Copy Editor Gabriela Piatek, Assistant Copy Editor Meaghan Kirby, Staff Writer Online Michael Genovese, Web Master Business Department Email: advertising@fairfieldmirror.com Christopher Lapone, Director of Finance Albert Rosica, Director of Advertising Matthew Lazicky, 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

News: Around the World

By Britta Gunneson Assistant News Editor

Auckland, New Zealand – A female zookeeper was killed by a tiger at the Hamilton Zoo on Sunday morning. The zookeeper was cleaning the enclosure when the tiger attacked. The zoo is unsure right now as to whether the tiger will be put down.

This is the third time since 2008 that a zookeeper has been fatally attacked in New Zealand.

Athens, Greece – Alexis Tsipas of the Syriza Party was elected the new prime minister of Greece on Sunday. The party, which entered the political sphere in January, is optimistic about the future of Greece, hoping to get rid of “its corrupt old systems.” Many Greeks hope the Syriza Party will lead Greece out of their disabling economic crisis.

Havana, Cuba – Pope Francis met with former Cuban President Fidel Castro after Sunday Mass.

Pope Francis gave Castro a collection of homilies, and in return received an interview book entitled “Fidel and Religion.” The day began for the pope with a procession and Mass attended by 300,000 people.

Sana’a, Yemen – Houthi rebels have released six foreigners that were held hostage, according to anonymous government officials. The hostages are being flown from the capital city to the neighboring country of Oman as part of the negotiations. The hostages, detained earlier this year, are comprised of three Americans, two Saudis and a British citizen.

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

News

Rotary Club partners with EWB to assist Bolivian community

By Meaghan Kirby Staff Writer After over a year of fundraising, the Fairfield Rotary Club, in conjunction with Orange Rotary Club, LaPaz Rotary and Rotary International, secured a $37,500 grant to support Fairfield University’s Engineers Without Borders’ (EWB) efforts in Bolivia.

The grant will go towards supplies and materials needed to build a sand filter for a community in Bolivia as part of a program established by Fairfield and University of South Dakota’s chapters of Engineers Without Borders.

The sand filter will remove any large debris and toxins from Bolivia’s water so that it will be able to be used to drink. While the project isn’t a difficult process, it is costly, requiring the $37,500 grant to cover the costs.

“Our overarching goal is to provide the community with a safer water supply,” Christopher Calitri ‘16, co-president of Fairfield’s Engineers Without Borders, said.

With University of South Dakota, Fairfield’s EWB has already built chlorinators in Carmen Pampa, Bolivia to purify the water. The two sand filters, which Fairfield’s chapter and University of South Dakota will build, is another stage in their efforts in Bolivia. The Fairfield Rotary Club got involved in the fundraising through Dr. Bruce Berdanier, dean of the School of Engineering, who asked them for help, knowing that one of Rotary International’s missions is to provide safe drinking water and sanitation around the world.

“Our overarching goal is to provide the community with a safer water supply,” Calitri said. According to Dr. Berdanier, the schools have been working with the Bolivian undergraduate universi-

ty Unidad Académica Campesina - Carmen Pampa and the village of Carmen Pampa to make the drinking water more sanitary for the roughly 700 students attending the school and residents of the village.

“There’s a lot of water there, from snowmelt and rivers coming down the mountains but they didn’t have any water treatment and don’t have any sanitation,“ said Berdanier. He noted that while the school has flushing toilets, the sanitation disposal isn’t adequate. After building the sand filters, the group hopes to install sanitary sewers and wastewater treatment in Carmen Pampa, which could cost upwards of $200,000.

For students, the hands-on experience provides additional learning in the real world. “Through these projects, those involved learn a substantial amount of information that would never be taught in a classroom setting,” Calitri said.

More so, Berdanier and Calitri agree that EWB’s goals reflect on the Jesuit values promoted by Fairfield. “There are a lot of students at Fairfield that are interested in service learning,” Berdanier said.

“These types of programs where they can go for a couple weeks and work on a project and see another culture and understand needs in other countries and how you work with them, I think are really important.

According to, Berdanier EWB isn’t just for students in the School of Engineering.

“We need people who can write, who can do marketing, fundraising, engineering, people who want to travel and work on projects in other countries.”

Berdanier and Calitri hope that the trip to Bolivia will take place sometime during the spring or summer of 2016.

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Students anticipate pope’s address to Congress Continued from page 1 President Jeffrey von Arx, S.J. will be taking a large part in the pope’s visit, as he was asked by Congressman Jim Himes of the state of Connecticut to personally attend the pope’s address to congress in Washington this Thursday.

The pope is expected to speak about issues regarding poverty, climate change and consumerism throughout the world.

“I’m thrilled to be able to hear Pope Francis’ address to Congress, and grateful to Congressman Himes for inviting me. The fact that the pope is a fellow Jesuit makes the occasion all the more special for me. I’m sure the pope will have

Contributed by Zachary Durso -

Wikipedia/Creative Commons -

a message for the American people through their elected representatives that will be both challenging and inspirational, and I know that Congressman Himes looks forward to hearing that message as much as I do,” von Arx said to Fairfield News.

Sophomore John La Mura shared his opinion about the pope’s upcoming address: “He seems to be getting a little too political and as the pope, maybe [he] should stay out of that. Also, I think with global warming, I like the idea that he cares about something, but I think he should stay out of those issues.”

Other students, however, feel that the pope’s address to Congress is very important, especially for a Jesuit university such as Fairfield.

Junior Jason Abate said he is also excited to hear the pope’s address to Congress, and is interested in how his visit will merge the Jesuit values with American ideologies.

“When you think about the Catholic Church as an instrumentation of a lot of good values around the world in terms of helping the poor, Catholic relief services, all these different organizations, and you think about the US as the epitome of all things that are just and good in the world,” he said.

“It’s important I think that those two things converge, and that he [the pope] discusses what he feels are the important issues in the world today,” Abate added.

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

Opinion

Opinion

Editor

Wikimedia.org/Creative Commons

Individual lives should unify our country

By Ariana Puzzo Opinion Editor

Next year will mark the 15th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon.

As time goes by, it appears that we are reflecting less on the lives that were lost on that tragic day and instead narrowing our memory in a way in which we recognize 9/11 as simply the most horrific attack our country has ever faced.

According to The New York Times, the number of those who gathered to honor the lives lost on 9/11 was “noticeably smaller than in years past.” Rick Rojas attributes the smaller turnout to the fact that 14 years is not a milestone.

However, I do not think that is the primary reason.

I believe that people have become increasingly desensitized to the feeling of the terror and uncertainty that gripped the nation, and in fact, the world, 14 years ago.

In the years following that fateful day, continued acts of terrorism both at home — as experienced with the Boston Marathon bombing — or abroad — as in the Charlie Hebdo attack — have served to make it so that we focus more on when the act of terrorism will repeat itself, rather than how we can most effectively honor the victims.

That is not to say that we do not pay tribute to the lives lost, but there seems to almost be a resolve that the current incident will not be the last.

Terrorism is a legitimate fear that pervades our country. However, I believe that focusing our attention solely on when the next terrorist attack will occur diminishes the loss

Editorial Board #IStandWithAhmed Patrick Kiernan Editor-in-Chief Meaghan Conlon Executive Editor Angela Sammarone Managing Editor

of every man, woman and child who perished as a result of senseless cruelty.

We should remember the individual people and their stories because that is how we can best unify our country and memorialize those directly impacted by 9/11.

The phrase “never forget” is spread across social media platforms each year on Sept. 11.

I fully support the expression because if we do forget the events of 9/11, we will be dishonoring the memory of those who lost their lives, as well as the families and friends who lost loved ones.

However, people have also expressed their remembrance of the devastating date inappropriately on social media. Selfies are the most popular online trend and we live at a time when people are obsessed with sharing every moment of their lives publicly.

It does not help that we are able to share these moments the second that they happen without taking the time to truly consider their impact.

People who take selfies at the 9/11 Memorial trivialize the tremendous loss that many people suffered; that is not to mention that it is also insensitive to those who wish to visit the site for meaningful reflection.

I personally have no recollection of 9/11 being only five years old at the time. My parents shielded me from the ongoing news coverage, and despite the suspension of air travel in the days following the attack, I was unaware of the sound of the Black Hawk helicopters flying over my northern New Jersey home, a 15 minute drive from the Lincoln Tunnel.

As I got older, I am glad that my parents no longer shielded me from the horrors of that day and the impact that it had on our

Recent initiatives in US education are encouraging students to explore the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. But when Ahmed Mohamed, a 14-year-old Texas boy, came to school showing off his handmade clock, his invention was confiscated and he was arrested.

As a country that strives to motivate students to interest themselves in STEM, it is surprising that Mohamed was shut down before even given a chance to explain himself.

Or is it really a surprise that this occurred, given the US’s problem with Islamophobia?

With 9/11 ever-present in our minds, it’s a pity that 14 years later, we have not grown out of the stereotypes we place on people of the Islam faith. Why is it that just because a boy with a Islamic

family and friends.

There reaches a point when we all have to come to terms with the terrifying memories of that day, or else we will continue to become desensitized to further tragedies.

My father recalls the phone call that his secretary received from her son, a New York City police officer, shortly after the first tower had been hit.

He had told her it was going to be bad and not to expect to hear from him anytime soon. A first responder, he was diagnosed with leukemia just a few years later.

He understands firsthand the lasting impact that the attack has had on the brave men and women who risked their lives in the hours and days following the devastation and has fought alongside others for that recognition.

My uncle, at the time a Verizon executive who two years prior had an office in the World Trade Center, had moved uptown and walked across the George Washington Bridge to his home in Bergen County, New Jersey that day. I cannot fathom the sense of panic that our respective friends and families felt while waiting for any news.

Sadly, we all know that there were others who did not make it home to their families that evening. The nephew of a long-time family friend, the sister of a colleague of my parents, a high school classmate of my mother, who along with his brother and the father of a high school classmate of mine, were among those who worked for Cantor-Fitzgerald, a company that experienced a particularly heavy loss.

The loss could have been closer to home for me and I am grateful every day that my loved ones who worked in New York were not

name created an electrical device, it was automatically labeled a bomb? We have overstepped fear and paranoia, right into stereotyping and racism.

Mohamed is an exemplary candidate of America’s future in engineering. Ask yourself this: Could you create a functional clock from a pencil case at 14?

The majority of us could not, so we should be proud of Mohamed’s talent. But instead, we have fallen into racial profiling, while continuing to uphold ideologies that support white supremacy.

Tweets of support including the hashtag #IStandWithAhmed flooded social media, a trend that did not go unnoticed. President Barack Obama, Mark Zuckerberg, NASA and Microsoft all publicly acknowledged Mohamed’s

tragically affected by the turmoil.

As time goes on, I am certain that less people will remember 9/11.

Similar to any other tragic event, such as the attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, the image of the towers collapsing will become generational and eventually something that people can identify only as having read in a history book.

It is undoubtedly easier to focus on the obvious negatives when remembering 9/11, especially given the terrifying reality that terrorist organizations are still active today.

As the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria ISIS continues to terrorize people around the world and stories abound of possible bomb threats, we cannot help but wonder if and when history will repeat itself.

Although we can hardly say that anything positive came of 9/11, there was the fact that our country became more unified, if only briefly, as a result.

As our country experienced the aftershock of the events of 14 years ago, we had one thought: How do move forward?

Although tightening security and monitoring terrorist threats were the most practical choices, we also realized that we needed to pick up the shattered pieces of those around us and help put them back together.

We have gotten away from that thought and need to rediscover that sense of camaraderie that we felt when showing the world that our country exudes strength and resilience.

If we continue to await the next tragedy, we will only splinter our nation rather than bring the nation together. We must remember the individual stories and indeed “never forget.”

invention, showing that some in this country care about cultivating America’s future.

Others, however, defended the teacher who reported Mohamed to the police. Bill Maher joked on his late night show, “So the teacher’s just supposed to see something that looks like a bomb and be, ‘Oh, wait, this might just be my white privilege talking? I sure don’t want to be politically incorrect, so I’ll just let it go.’” The New York Post asked why Mohamed received special attention when similar incidents involving white teenagers did not receive equal recognition.

While it is true that similar incidents have occurred to white teens, neither the way the punishment was carried out nor the response by the media has been of such a great magnitude.

We agree and understand that the

safety of children in schools is paramount, given the events of the December 2013 Sandy Hook shootings. However, Mohamed’s clock, among other incidents, indicate a recurring theme of paranoia and conclusion-jumping that, in this instance, has gone too far.

We live in a world today shadowed by threats of terrorism, keeping us always on the defense. Yet, is it always best to assume the worst-case scenario before rationally evaluating the situation simply because we are afraid to risk that time?

No right answer exists, and we neither agree nor disagree with the decision of Mohamed’s teacher. What we can say, however, is that lately we have let our fears trump our rationality, and it is at times like this where we see that our untrusting nature can risk a child’s future.

Opinion

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THE MIRROR |

Stag-gering Opinions Do you think that Hillary Clinton should face consequences for using a non-protected email server when sending information?

“I would say I think it’s a non-scandal. I think that she may have broken some rules, but it’s not clear that she broke any laws, as far as I know.”

“I don’t know enough about it currently, but I think that it goes two ways. I think either way, she’s acknowledged this too; it’s an issue in that the security of the country could have been compromised..."

“If you are a governhigh up in rank, national security should be an important part of your job..."

Letter to the Editor: All faculty deserve equal pay According to the Faculty Forward Network, there are currently over 218,000 students and 20,000 faculty members who study and work at 28 Jesuit institutions across the United States.

Once a middle-class job, too many university faculty are now working part-time for very low pay, isolated from colleagues without job security, benefits or even office space.

As sociologists and anthropologists, we argue a change in priorities is needed at Jesuit colleges and universities that reflect the Jesuit commitment to social justice.

Although Jesuit colleges and universities have increased tuition and fees 68 percent between 2003 and 2013 to an average of $37,000, they spent less than one-third of their revenue on instruction in 2012-2013.

More than half (53 percent) of instructional faculty at Jesuit colleges and universities are now non-tenure track. At least 43 percent of faculty at Jesuit colleges and universities are part-time.

The average salary for an adjunct is only $2,700 per course nationally. Though it is a higher at Fairfield (partially given our expensive location), it is far from a living wage: Calculate how many courses you have to teach to raise a family.

You all want a college education because a degree is associated with a better life, more money and “the American Dream.”

But to an increasing number of university faculty, a college education — even an advanced degree — isn’t enough to keep them above the poverty level.

At Fairfield, we are compelled to recognize and

participate in the larger mission of social justice and service that accompanies a Jesuit education.

Our mission is an ethical one, and it’s rooted in a belief that our community of students and educators is tasked with the opportunity to make the world we live in a better place.

Nationwide, 31 percent of part-time faculty are near the poverty level, while graduate students are increasingly saddled with a record amount of debt.

Faculty like us who teach full-time are asking that you join us in demanding that our administration reverse trends and take the moral high ground, leading the way for others to follow.

This fall, inspired by the pope’s call to reduce social inequality, faculty at Jesuit schools are uniting to urge a new national standard of Just Employment.

All faculty deserve a fair and livable wage in as much as all students deserve access to an affordable and accessible education. We will all benefit from such a change.

Signed, Rachelle Brunn-Bevel, Assistant Professor (Sociology) David Crawford, Professor (Anthropology) Scott Lacy, Associate Professor (Anthropology, Chair of the Sociology & Anthropology Department) Eric Mielants, Associate Professor (Sociology) Rose Rodrigues, Assistant Professor (Sociology) Kurt Schlichting, Professor (Sociology)

One year makes a difference Michaela Venditti ‘18 To see the rest of Jason and Michaela's responses, go to Stag-gering Opinions at fair-

By Allison White Coffee Break Editor

The beginning of my freshman year was the scariest, yet most exciting time of my life. It was the start of something entirely new.

I had a new home here at Fairfield. Since I had always attended a Catholic school, I knew most of my classmates for my the biggest arguments for those in whole life. Attending college

By Ariana Puzzo opposition of President Obama's meant that I would know no one.

Opinion Editor two terms in office. At the time of It was time to start from scratch. his inauguration, the president was My first thoughts were ocAmong countless announcecupied with how my roommate ments of awards at the 2015 MTV only 47 years old. Although he has and I would get along, who I Video Music Awards, Kanye West not been the youngest incumbent to would become friends with and chose to make headlines again with assume office, many still argue that a feeling of terror about my uphis statement that he intends to run his lack of tenure did not serve the country well. coming classes. for president in 2020.

West should not be treated I had never lived with someAlthough his remarks were huone before, so sharing a room morous, there are people who are differently. To President Obama's was something that I would have taking his announcement too seri- credit, he actively pursued a career to adjust to. ously. We need to pay less attention that would prepare him for a life in Tons of roommate horror to West's statement and more on the politics. West, on the other hand, has no previous experience that stories filled my mind. Would future of our country. she have a weird habit or steal West is a well-known hip-hop would prepare him for the responsimy clothes or exile me from my artist, but he is also known for his bilities as the country's commander room every weekend? unpredictable comments and flip- in chief.

More frequently, we are seeing Starting over and making pant personality. Remember the new friends is a big deal for ev2009 VMAs? Being unpredictable candidates who are celebrities, not eryone, as it was for me. I wanted is not a quality that a potential can- politicians.

Although West was likely jokto make new friends that I could didate or president should possess. see myself staying friends with We need a leader who can provide ing with his desire to run for presifor a lifetime. stability for our country and West dent, it is important that we do not overanalyze the situation and lose Freshman year can be difdoes not fit the bill. ficult in the beginning because A presidential candidate sight of the current election. Preeveryone is trying to find people should also, at the least, have some occupying ourselves with the outthat they click with. experience in politics. If he or she landish declarations of celebrity I didn’t meet some of my has never held a political position, presidential bids will only in the best friends until the end of then there is little chance of that end delude citizens from the issues at hand and push our country furfreshman year. If you feel like candidate being an effective leader. you’re not making Inexperience has been one of ther from reaching its goals. friends right away, The Mirror welcomes the opinions and contributions of its readers: Letters to the editor must be timely don’t worry. You’ll and submitted by email to info@fairfieldmirror.com or Box AA. All letters to the editor that are appropriate find your group will be published either in print or online. The Mirror reserves the right to edit letters and articles for consoon. tent, length and grammatical error. Letters should be free of obscenities and personal attacks and should College classcontain correct and factual information not exceeding 500 words. es were some-

Why we shouldn't vote

thing that terrified the life out of me. Would I be able to keep up? What should I expect? Of course, college classes are going to be harder, but college also offers a lot more help, such as the Writing Center and free tutoring services.

Professors also offer office hours. These resources helped me to acclimate to my new college workload, so I recommend that everyone take advantage of these great opportunities.

The beginning of sophomore year was a whole different process. I already had my friends from the previous year, and I knew my roommate because I chose to live with her.

I also knew that college classes were nothing that I couldn’t handle — although they did test me.

It’s hard not to worry about the different atmosphere you’re entering and all that comes with it. College is an exciting time and it can be some of the best

years of your life.

You will meet amazing people that you can’t picture your life without and you will also learn a lot.

The difference between my freshman and sophomore years is huge.

There is a lot less worrying when the end of August rolls around and it’s time to go back to school. I was beyond excited to come back to Fairfield when entering my sophomore year.

I missed my friends and the freedom that comes along with college life. I learned that no one cares if you go to Barone alone.

I knew how to manage my time when it comes to balancing my social life, schoolwork and activities.

Knowing what to expect made my transition that much easier. Although my freshman year was a great experience, I was glad to come back to school this year as a sophomore because now Fairfield feels like home.

The Vine

arts, entertainment, features Editor Andrew DaRosa vine@fairfieldmirror.com

Steel Pulse brings reggae beat to Fairfield

THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

The Vine

By Andrew DaRosa Vine Editor With the flair of their Jamaican brethren and the elegance of their English roots, Steel Pulse has crafted some of the finest grooves in reggae that span 40 years of unmatched creativity. In those 40 years, Steel Pulse has become the most successful British reggae group with a Grammy win, numerous sold out performances and the honor of becoming the first reggae band to play at former president Clinton’s inauguration.

To celebrate this major milestone, the pulse of reggae will stop at The Warehouse in downtown Fairfield on Wednesday, Sept. 30. To add to the monumentality of the event, Steel Pulse will become the third band to play at the venue behind Rusted Root and The Weight.

With a style that cannot simply be nailed down to one genre, Steel Pulse draws from the influences of jazz, hip-hop and Latin rhythms. Each release evokes a different sound and message whether it be the politically explosive “Handsworth Revolution” or the spirituallyinvocative “Babylon the Bandit.”

Songs such as “Roller Skates” and “Taxi Driver” evoke the playful tongue-in-cheek satire of the British political system that has come to define the band as the Rastafarian answer to worldwide political injustice, which originally caused them problems in matters of booking when they first started touring.

For those who do not understand the Rastafarian religion, it embodies the spirituality of humanity with the Earth with a specific emphasis on peace.

Just as powerful as their Rastafarian political stance is their spiritual guidance within their music, specifically with 1985’s “Babylon the Bandit,” which won them the Grammy for Best Reggae Performance in 1986.

The album as a whole explores the Rastafarian aspects of religion with pieces that are just as powerfully moving as the next.

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One standout track off the seminal album is “Not King James’ Version,” which boldly states the lyrics, “Phoenicians, Egyptians and the Moors / Built civilization, that's for sure / Creators of the alphabet / While the West illiterate.”

Steel Pulse transcends expectations with bombastic live stylings and a theatrical stage presence that is fed by the their spiritual kinship and political fervor.

Each show is different, with the audience never knowing quite what to expect from night to night. Their live spectacle has even caught the attention of the likes of The Clash, Generation X and even The Police.

Steel Pulse today still continues their tradition of live splendor and is even putting out a new record, “Steel Pulse: The Definitive Story,” this year after being delayed due to conflicting projects for almost two years.

The new record, which has been hinted at with the release of two singles, “Positivity” and “Jah Way,” will also be released alongside a documentary of the same name that captures the monumental, 40-year history of Britain’s most predominant reggae-roots band.Though going through various lineup changes since their inception in 1975, Steel Pulse has retained an uncompromisable work ethic and stylistic genius that has served them right for the past 40 years and will continue to long past their expiration date.

As best said in their 1978 hit “Handsworth Revolution,” “It's a long, long way we're coming from / To send this message across, across / It’s been hidden, forbidden, concealed, unrevealed / It’s got to come out in the open.”

If you consider yourself a reggae aficionado or just like to get down, Steel Pulse at The Warehouse is your best bet for the best Rasta party in Connecticut. Also be on the lookout any day for their new album, which is set to drop unexpectedly this year.

La Gonzo/Creative Commons

Saitta Studies Abroad: 'Twisted in Time'

By Danielle Saitta Abroad Columnist It’s hard to believe that four weeks ago, we all arrived at our study abroad destinations. The time seems to be going by really fast.

The honeymoon stage is coming to an end as class work is piling up and the warm weather is fading.

It’s mind blowing to think that my midterms are in four weeks.

It’s so easy to lose track of time when classes are fewer, meals are later and stores close for two-hour lunch breaks in the middle of the day.

The other day I went to go pick up a fan, as I have been struggling to sleep because of the heat, but when I arrived at the store, it was closed for another 45 minutes for lunch.

When I finally got inside, I was directed to two different stores down the road and none of them had fans because apparently fans were out of season.

I’m not the only one having a hard time adapting to the culture. Junior Michelle Gerardi, who is currently studying in France, is having some issues when it comes to how days are structured as well.

“When someone tells you a time to be somewhere, you’re supposed to be late on purpose. For example, yesterday I went to a French birthday party that started at 2 p.m.

I showed up at 6 p.m. and I was one of the first ones to arrive.”

It’s also a much different experience when I time my laundry. At Fairfield, one can be sure that within the hour and a half that I can dedicate to washing and drying my clothes, they will be clean and dry.

It’s a reliable cycle and one I’ve become accustomed too. Doing laundry over here is a much more trying experience. For starters, I never know how much time to set aside to dry my clothes because there are no dryers here, only drying racks.

This can make it difficult for me to plan my day accordingly, as it never takes the same about of time for my clothes to dry.

And it’s not just me who experiences this problem, Gerardi is having similar issues in France.

“In this apartment that I live in, we have a tiny washer. After, we hang dry everything on a rack on the open porch which makes my clothes become cold,” said Gerardi.

This is a scenario I myself sympathize with.

I’ve found that the reason there are no dryers in Italy is because they are very conscious about the environment in many aspects of their life, not just in terms in energy.

Take their food for example; everything at the grocery store is extremely fresh. The downside to all this fresh food is that I’m not used to everything expiring so quickly; due to all the preservatives used in the food in the United States had gotten me into habit of keeping my food for more that a few days.

Additionally, Italians will bring their own bags to take home groceries instead of using plastic bags like we are accustomed to at home . If you want to carry home your groceries in a plastic bag, you need to pay 50 cents per bag.

I would recommend bringing your own bag, or a backpack to make grocery shopping easier and cheaper.

Time and proper procedure can be confusing even in such a simple task as grocery shopping. I got corrected by a cashier one day at the market for saying “good day” to him in Italian.

He told me that I could not say “good day” yet because it was noon and the people in Florence say “buongiorno,” meaning good morning, up until 3 p.m.

The social differences in the cultures we are all experiencing are both fascinating and life changing, especially the difference in how the U.S. and Italy use their 24 hours in a day.

We are so used to powering through the day, being judged as lazy college kids if we take a nap, but Italy sees downtime in the middle of the day as a necessary part of one’s day.

Additionally, it has been drilled into our heads that it is disrespectful to be late, as it shows rudeness and a lack of consideration for the person.

It is strange for me to realize that the way of the life I grew up with is unique to America.

Being abroad isn’t just about learning new cultures; it’s about adjusting to all aspects of living in another country — even something as simple as time.

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

The Vine

Antique hair art informs Bellarmine's latest exhibition

By James Della Rocca Contributing Writer

How long did you spend on your hair this morning? Did you put hairspray in it?

Hairgel? Or did you just put a brush or a comb through it as you ran to your first class?

An upcoming exhibition at the Bellarmine Museum of Art called “Hair in the Classical World” will show not only how hair has reflected societal norms, but how hair was an integral part of society. The exhibition was co-curated by Dr. Katherine Schwab, professor of visual and performing arts, and Dr. Marice Rose, associate professor of visual and performing arts.

Fairfield students can expect to see this exhibit, which includes over 30 pieces of hairrelated art in the Bellarmine Art Museum.

According to Linda Wolk-Simon, director of the museum, these pieces are on loan from prestigious places like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Yale University Art Gallery and the American Numismatic Society.

These authentic, ancient antiquities come from the “Classical Era,” ranging from 1500 B.C. to 600 A.D. Some of the pieces on display include sculptures, coins and hair styling tools actually used by people during this period. WolkSimon could not pick a favorite piece that is a part of the exhibition, but she said the most signature piece is the bust of the influential Roman empress

2015 Fall Concert Guide

By Andrew DaRosa Vine Editor

Julia Domna.

The role of hair in the ancient Greek, Cypriot and Roman societies will be looked at through three thematic lenses during the exhibition: Arrangement and Adornment, Rituals and Rites of Passage and Divine and Royal Iconography. When asked about which lens she found interesting, Wolk-Simon explained,“Each lens is a different window into the past and the societies that these pieces come from, giving a deeper understanding and figuring out why hair is the way it is.” If this exhibition of the importance of hair to ancient Greek and Romans is a success, Wolk-Simon said she wishes to also have an exhibition on the hair of other cultures, naming the Italian Renaissance as the next one she would like to showcase.

Along with the exhibition, there will be a variety of other programs to attend, including lectures, a symposium and workshops for students and families. The main purpose of these activities is to show the critical role that hair played in identity, such as designating social status or class, its formation and how a culture’s ideals shape human appearance, while simultaneously making important connections to identity today.

The exhibition will run from Oct. 7 through Dec. 18, with an opening reception open to the public at the Bellarmine Museum of Art on Oct. 6 from 6-8 p.m.

The blustery weather and falling leaves is a great reminder that we are now upon the season of fall, and more importantly, fall concerts. While many suffer from post-summer concert depression, this guide is here to tell you what shows must be on your radar to alleviate the pain of another concert season gone.

September 9/28 - 9/30 - Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls - Irving Plaza, New York, N.Y. 9/29 - Hozier - Radio City Music Hall, New York, N.Y. 9/29 - CHVRCHES - Central Park Summerstage, New York, N.Y. October 10/01 - Emily Kinney - Highline Ballroom, New York, N.Y. 10/05 - Zedd - Toyota Oakdale Theatre, Wallingford, Conn.

10/13 - In the Valley Below - The Space, Hamden, Conn.

10/16 - 10/17 - Trey Anastasio Band - Kings Theatre, Brooklyn, N.Y. 10/21 - Modest Mouse - College Street Music Hall, New Haven, Conn.

10/28 - Plain White T’s - Toad’s Place, New Haven, Conn.

November 11/05 - 11/06 - Judas Priest - The Paramount, Huntington, N.Y. 11/06 - David Cook - Infinity Hall, Norfolk, Conn.

11/11 - Cole Swindell - Best Buy Theatre, New York, N.Y. 11/13 - T.I - Webster Bank Arena, Bridgeport, Conn.

11/15 - Mary J. Blige - Grand Theatre at Foxwoods, Mashantucket, Conn.

11/16 - Flo Rida - Webster Hall, New York, N.Y. 11/18 - 11/19 - The Weeknd - Barclays Center, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11/19 - 11/21 - Chris Robinson Brotherhood - Brooklyn Bowl, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11/24 - 11/28 - My Morning Jacket - Beacon Theatre - New York, N.Y. 11/27 - 11/28 - Guster - Capitol Theatre, Port Chester, N.Y. December 12/03 - 12/08 - Dinosaur Jr. - Bowery Ballroom, New York, N.Y. 12/16 - Mac Miller - Terminal 5, New York, N.Y. 12/30 - 1/2 - Phish - Madison Square Garden, New York, N.Y.

Cooking with Colleen: Pixabay/Creative Commons

Getting Creative with Quinoa

By Colleen O'Connor Nutrition Columnist

Quinoa is dismissed by many people because they think it tastes like bitter cardboard. However, quinoa is rich with necessary proteins, fiber and other minerals, making it a “superfood” that everyone should include into their diets. For those of you who don’t think quinoa is a godsend like I do, just know that it’s all in the way it’s prepared and very few people know how to cook quinoa correctly.

I started using quinoa in my meatloaf when I was diagnosed with a gluten allergy and couldn’t use breadcrumbs anymore. The first time I tried to make this recipe, I was just as skeptical as you probably are now. I assumed it would taste awful but, to tell you the truth, but I couldn’t taste the difference.

This is neither a vegetarian nor a vegan recipe, so for all of you meat-lovers out there, this one’s for you. This is an old family recipe (with a few minor substitutions) that serves six, but my family of seven can usually get at least one night’s worth of leftovers out of this meal.

Quinoa Meatloaf Servings: 6 1 pound ground beef 1/2 cup cooked quinoa 2 eggs 1/8 tablespoon ground black pepper One 14-ounce jar of marinara sauce Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

While waiting for the oven to warm up, I suggest cooking the quinoa. The best way to do this, according to Bon Appetit, is to first rinse the quinoa very well in order to remove the bitter outer layer. Then boil one cup of water for every onehalf cup of quinoa. After the water comes to a boil, turn the heat down to low and let the quinoa simmer for about 15 minutes. It holds a lot of water, so make sure you drain it out very well after it is done cooking.

In a large bowl, mix all of the ingredients together except the marinara sauce.

Add one cup of marinara sauce and mix well.

Press the mixture into an ungreased 8 x 4-inch loaf pan.

Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 minutes.

Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the meatloaf and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the meat is well browned and firm.

Once the meatloaf is done cooking, wait 10 minutes before serving.

I highly recommend serving this dish with some form of potato, whether it be mashed, baked, twice baked or boiled, and with a green vegetable such as spinach or green beans.

Wikipedia/Creative Commons Remodelista/Creative Commons

The Vine

Page 10

THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

ashionably

by Nicole Funaro

The Stylish Stag Name: Mikayla Lydon Major: Undeclared with Business/Marketing interest Graduating Year: 2019 Describe how you put your outfit together this morning.

I just got these new shoes, and I wanted to pair something with them. They’re very matte and neutral, so I picked a nice neutral top to go with it, but short sleeves because it’s really hot outside.

Where did you get the pieces that you’re wearing?

I got my top from Marshalls, my jeans from Hollister and I got my shoes from Amazon, but the brand is Carolbar.

How would you describe your personal style?

I try to be fashionable. I would say, like, kind of chic and trendy, a mix depending on what my mood is during the day. I like lace a lot too, and floral as well as neutral colors. I don’t like bright things.

Do you have a favorite piece in your wardrobe that you wear all the time?

I’m always wearing high-waisted jeans. Always.

Is there a celebrity whose style you admire? If so, who?

Not celebrities, but I follow a lot of people on Instagram that you wouldn’t even know that have really nice style. The favorite Instagram accounts I follow are @iloveshowpo, @fashifeen, @ carlibel, @floralbleu and @itsjbabyxo.

Nicole Funaro/The Mirror

Marvel reinvents the past in Captain America: White

By Juliana Sansonetti Assistant Vine Editor Marvel Comics released a new comic about everyone’s favorite captain last Wednesday, Sept. 16, appeasing many eager fans who have been awaiting its debut since it was announced in June.

“Captain America: White” is a new series that focuses on Steve Rogers’ memories of World War II and opens immediately after Rogers awakens from being frozen for 70 years.

He immediately flees from some of the Avengers who are present for his awakening and is overcome by flashbacks of the war and his best friend Bucky Barnes.

One of the best aspects of the comic is the focus on the friendship between Rogers and Barnes.

Anyone who has seen the Marvel films knows that this was not expanded on quite as much as it should have been in “Captain America: The First Avenger.”

In this comic, Rogers mourns the loss of Barnes in the present and reminisces about their friendship in the past.

These moments are both heartwarming and poignant.

However, not every moment between Barnes and Rogers is sugarcoated, which gave the story an element of realism.

For example, Barnes and Rogers argue in one scene, and Rogers heartbreakingly reminisces about this much later.

It is moments like these that made the comic beautiful and down-to-earth.

Overall, the comic is entertaining and a lot of fun to read. It also dares to go dark at times, but still has a lighthearted feel throughout.

What makes this comic even more enjoyable is the vintage style of drawing that is reminiscent of Jack Kirby’s art when he drew for Marvel.

This gave the comic a classic feel to it, while retaining a modern comedic spin.

Although the comic was very well-done, the ending could have been a lot stronger.

The themes of grief and failure could have been emphasized a lot more if the final scene of the comic was Barnes’ death, rather than including an additional scene after.

Instead, with a flashback as the closing panels, the ending of what had been a very strong and exciting comic was weak and took away from the tragedy that was Barnes’ death.

Nevertheless, this comic certainly made me want to read more about the relationship between Rogers and Barnes and how this will translate into Rogers’ reentry into the modern world.

The Vine

THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

Kristan Higgins experiments with women's fiction

By Erin McElwee Contributing Writer Romance novelist Kristan Higgins decided years ago that she wanted to write about intimate relationships for her readers. On Tuesday, Sept. 15 at the Fairfield University Downtown Bookstore, Higgins shared her latest work concerning the relationship between two sisters, titled “If You Only Knew.”

During an hour of readings and engagement with the audience, Higgins said that she has recently shifted away from the genre of romance novels to the more expansive area of women’s fiction, and her readers love the change.

Higgins told the audience of 19 non-Fairfield students that there was always a heavy presence of women’s fiction and women’s experiences in her books.

Higgins wants more readers to enjoy her books and hopes that this change in her writing widens her audience.

Wrapping up her 21-day long book tour, Higgins concluded her journey at Fairfield.

The Durham, Connecticut native writes in her office every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and pens two books a year. Higgins first started out in advertising and wrote commercials and ads. However, after she and her husband started a family, her kids came first.

As Higgins stayed home with her children, she began to write after realizing the need to contribute to the family income.

“I wanted to write a book I could sell, not for myself,” she said.

Since then, Higgins has been writing romance novels for “normal people,” as she says. Her books are aimed for everyday people dealing with everyday problems.

Twice she has taken home the Romance Writers of America’s RITA Award for Best Contemporary Single Title for “Catch of the Day” in 2008, and “Too Good To Be True” in 2010.

Her most recent novel, “If You Only Knew,” follows two sisters who struggle with their idea of what it means to have a perfect life.

When their husbands test the boundaries of their relationships, the women have to explore other options and ways of living.

As Higgins spoke about her book, the audience was captivated, including two sisters in their late 40s who traveled on the ferry from Long Island just to see Higgins.

“We have read all of them. We love that she writes about real people. I also can’t help but laugh,” said Christine Moore, one of the two sisters.

Higgins admits authors get the same question all of the time — people want to know where their ideas come from.

Higgins confessed that in the beginning of her career, she had plenty of her own ideas. However, they were slowly used up.

The author now sparks her creative juices from real-life situations.

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Erin McElwee/The Mirror Kristan Higgins (above) reads from her new novel "If You Only Knew" at the Downtown Bookstore.

Instead of burying her head in her smartphone, she talks to people. When she gets on a train, she strikes up a conversation with the person sitting next to her. “iPhones keep usisolated. They take away from things,” she said.

Higgins has progressively learned details of people’s adoptions, pregnancies, hysterectomies and even affairs by simply talking to people around her and listening to their stories.

When she has a good idea or knows she has heard something special, she gets what her family calls her “magic face.” She may not know where it will fit, but that great detail she just learned about the human condition will have a spot somewhere in the next novel.

The mother of two, wife and author continues to write and couldn’t be more content with her current situation. Higgins hopes to always be mindful of what she has and what is to come. Her goal is to continue to write about characters that surprise her readers and herself.

“Writing a book is like reading a map. We look at it and then never follow the original path,” she concluded.

'The Perfect Guy' stalks up Inkwell Spotlight on the competition 'Losing My Grip'

By Miandabu Kalala Contributing Writer

Viewers always need to see something with a little twist, something that makes one’s body shiver or has you saying “I did not see that coming.” If that’s you, then “The Perfect Guy” is the movie you definitely need to see.

The plot of “The Perfect Guy,” written by Alan B. McElroy, revolves around a successful woman whose desire to settle down pushes her boyfriend away and sends her right into the arms of maniacal sociopath.

The main character Leah Vaughn, played by Sanaa Lathan, is tired of waiting for a proposal from Dave Young, played by Morris Chestnut, her boyfriend of two years who is very much afraid of commitment and insists on proposing when the time is right.

Two months after Leah calls it quit with Dave, she meets Carter Duncan, played by Michael Ealy, who appears to be the perfect guy, except that he is mentally disturbed, obsessed and violent.

The pair fall in love and everything is perfect until Carter’s true character comes rushing out, scaring Leah off.

For her safety, she decides to break things off with Carter and finds refuge in her ex, who realized that Leah was the one all along; but, Carter decides that if he cannot have her, no one else will.

Leah explores all resources within the law to get

rid of her stalker, but her efforts fail desperately.

As she loses everything, she is forced to face this all by herself.

The movie was well-paced, which allowed the audience to be part of the story instead of rushing through scenes.

Ealy did a phenomenal job taking on the role of Carter.

He is mostly known for the “gentleman” roles he plays, such as in the movie “About Last Night” where Ealy plays Danny, an everyday guy who falls in love with the girl of his dreams.

To see him play the role of a villain was very refreshing.

This movie not only celebrates the actors’ unique talents, but starring a predominantly African American cast is a tremendous feat in the film industry as actors of color deserve to be recognized for their work.

The story is very educational, teaching young ladies to be patient and learn to see certain signs in men which could save their lives.

It also teaches us to approach life one step at a time, keeping in mind that not everything that shines is gold.

“The Perfect Guy” reached No. 1 in the box office and has received generally favorable reviews since its premiere, according to Deadline Hollywood.

By Marina Lindland Marketing Dircetor for The Inkwell Fingers wrapped around A frail pole Lathered from end to end In grease It urges me to fall Yet my hands struggle To maintain their tenuous hold If I am to hold on any longer I feel as though either The metal thread will snap Under my fingers Or my palms will Finally lose the grip That I have fought So hard To keep

Coffee Break

THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

Page 12

COFFEE BREAK Editor: Allison White

... As Overheard in Barone Compiled by Allison White Coffee Break Editor

Scan the QR code below with a smartphone to read more of this week’s overheard quotes!

“Uber is God’s gift to college kids everywhere.”

“I need Columbus Day weekend for hibernation.”

“I will never not wait 20 minutes for coffee in the morning.”

“I can’t even wake up for my 11 a.m. How do people 8 a.m. it?”

“There’s four doors but nope, we all must use the handicapped door.”

“When Einstein’s runs out of ice, you know it’s going to be a bad day.”

Tweet us your #OverheardBarone comments @FairfieldMirror and be featured next week!

Stags Trivia 1. How many club sports are on campus?

2. What are the three Residential Colleges?

3. What is Lantern Point?

DM us on Twitter @FairfieldMirror with the correct answers to these questions to win an exclusive Mirror giveaway.

Play some...

Sudoku

How to play: Complete the puzzle by filling in numbers one through nine (with no repeats or missing numbers) in each column, row and 3 x 3 square.

Sports

Page 13

THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

SPORTS

Sports Editor: Alfredo Torres » sports@fairfieldmirror.com

NBA family loses two all-time greats

By Alfredo Torres Sports Editor The NBA lost two of its legends as Philadelphia 76ers greats Darryl Dawkins, also known as “Chocolate Thunder,” and Moses Malone passed away.

Dawkins passed away on August 27, 2015 in Allentown, Pennsylvania at the age of 58. The Lehigh County coroner’s office announced that an autopsy would be performed on Aug. 27 according to a statement released by Dawkins’ family; the cause of death was a heart attack.

Just two weeks after the passing of Dawkins, news broke that Moses Malone had passed away on Sept.

13, 2015 in Norfolk, Virginia.

According to the Virginia medical examiner’s office, Malone’s death was caused by cardiovascular disease. Malone was found dead in a hotel, he was 60 at the time of his death.

After leading his high school team to a state championship,

Dawkins was selected 5th overall in the first round of the 1975 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers.

Dawkins had a great pro career, but will always be remembered for his rim shaking dunks.

One of Dawkins’ most memorable dunks came on Nov. 3, 1979 against the then Kansas City Kings , currently known as the Sacramento Kings, where Dawkins threw down a massive dunk that broke down and shattered the backboard. Three weeks after breaking his first backboard, Dawkins was back at it against the San Antonio Spurs as he broke yet another backboard. As an effect, the NBA decided that breaking a backboard was an offense that would result in a fine and suspension.

Not only were his dunks unforgettable, but also Dawkins’ personality on and off the court made him the figure he was.

Dawkins was known for naming his dunks, after breaking his first backboard he decided to name it

“The Chocolate-Thunder-Flying, Robinzine-Crying, Teeth-Shaking, Glass-Breaking, Rump-Roasting, Bun-Toasting, Wham-Bam, GlassBreaker-I-Am-Jam.” Dawkins had several other out of the ordinary names for his dunks like “the Look Out Below,” “the In-Your-Face Disgrace” and many more.

Not only did Dawkins give his dunks name, but he also gave himself some unique nicknames like “Sir Slam” and “Dr. Dunkenstein.”

None stuck more than the one given to him by none other than Stevie Wonder, “Chocolate Thunder.” After meeting Dawkins for the first time in the Sixers locker room, Wonder gave him the nickname that stuck with him up until his untimely passing.

Moses Malone like Dawkins was also selected straight out of high school and into the pros, Malone was the first to ever accomplish this feat. The Utah Stars selected Malone in the third round of the 1974 American Basketball Association

Draft. Malone received all star honors in his rookie year, he only played two seasons in the ABA before it merged with the NBA in 1976.

Malone’s first team was the Buffalo Braves, but was then traded to the Houston Rockets. In his six seasons with the Rockets, Malone was a five time all star. In 1979, Malone won his first of three MVP award after finishing the year as the league’s leading rebounder.

Malone would lead his Rockets to the NBA Finals in 1981 but came up short against the Boston Celtics.

After another great season, Malone was awarded the MVP award once again in 1982.

Malone was traded to the Philadelphia 76ers the following season. In his first season with Philadelphia, Malone was awarded the MVP for the second consecutive year in 1983 and led the Sixers to his first and only championship of his storied career, where he was awarded his first and only Finals

MVP. Malone left his mark on the league, as he is fifth all time in rebounds he also ranks eight all time with a career total of 27, 409 points. Malone holds the record for most offensive rebounds in a game, season and career.

Malone received his highest achievement in 2001 as he was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Malone will always be remembered for his impact with and without the basketball.

“He was among the most dominant centers ever to play the game and one of the best players in the history of the NBA and the ABA. Even more than his prodigious talent, we will miss his friendship, his generosity, his exuberant personality and the extraordinary work ethic he brought to the game throughout his 21-year pro career,” said NBA commissioner Adam Silver in a statement to ESPN.

Highlights from the past week: Fairfield men's tennis opened up play this past weekend as they participated in the Connectitcut State Championship. Sophomore Brad Orban appeared in semifinals for both singles and doubles. Orban reached the semis of the “A” singles draw and then paired with Dylan Appel '18 for a run to the semifinals in the “A” doubles bracket. Orban won a total of three singles matches; he defeated Marist (6-2, 6-0), Harvard (6-1, 6-3) and Yale (6-4, 5-7, 10-5) as he made his way to the semifinals, but dropped the last two sets against Marist (6-2, 6-0). In doubles, Orban and Appel defeated Sacred Heart (6-4) and Quinnipiac University (7-5) before falling to Yale (7-5). The Stags will make a trip to Hartford on Tuesday, Sept. 29 for its first duel.

Fairfield opened its doors to Niagara for its first Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference game of the year, but fell 3-1 after late goals by the Purple Eagles. The Stags have not started 0-1 in conference play since 2006. Niagara jumped to an early lead after striking in the first two minutes of the game to take a 1-0 lead. The Purple Eagles would score again to push the score to 2-0. In the 55th minute of the game, Jackie Goudreault '18 scored her first career goal and cut the lead down 2-1. After several minutes of tough play, Niagara struck again to finish the game off 3-1. Stags will be back at it on Wednesday, Sept. 23 as they travel to Stony Brook.

The Fairfield volleyball team came up short this past weekend as they dropped three close sets. Fairfield made the trip to Canisius, but fell 3-0. The Stags stopped set scores of 25-22, 25-21 and 25-22. The match had 14 lead changes and 27 ties. Sophomore Skyler Day led the Stags with nine kills and 13 digs, but fell just short to record her third consecutive double-double. Freshman Miley Lingenfelter dealt a team-high 21 assists and Sydney Buckley '18 dished out 12 assists. The Stags are set to open their home MAAC schedule this Saturday as they host Quinnipiac.

The Stags finished seventh out of 10 teams at the Rider Invitational. Fairfield was led by the trio of Mike Flanagan '17, Sam Daly '17 and Scott Daly '19 as all three crossed the finish line within three seconds of each other. Flanagan finished with a time 25:35.75 for 39th out of 137 runners, Sam Daly followed as he finished 40th with a time of 25:36.52 and Scott Daly finished 41st with a time of 25:44.73.

The Stags are set to host the Fr. Victor J. Leeber, S.J. Invitational on Saturday, Sept.

26.

Photos contributed by Sports Information Desk

In this week's issue...

- NBA welcomes new Hall of Fame class (Page 14) - Djokovic wins U.S. Open Championship (Page 15) - Spain wins European basketball championship (Page 15) - Men's soccer drops home opener (Page 16)

This week in sports: Wednesday, September 23 Field Hockey vs. Hofstra, 3:30 p.m.

Women's Soccer at Stony Brook, 7 p.m.

Saturday, September 26 Women's Golf at Dartmouth Women's Invitational, All-Day Softball at LIU Post, 10 a.m.

Cross Country at Fr. Victor F. Leeber, S.J. Invitational, All-Day Softball at Adelphi University, 12:15 p.m.

Volleyball vs. Quinnipiac, 1 p.m.

Sunday, September 27 Field Hockey at Providence, 1 p.m.

Monday, September 28 Men's Golf at ECAC Championship, All-Day

Tuesday, September 29 Women's Tennis at Hartford, 2 p.m.

Men's Tennis at Hartford, 2 p.m.

Sports

Page 14

THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

NBA Hall of Fame welcomes new class

By Conor O'Brien Contributing Writer

On Sept. 11, the basketball community welcomed the class of 2015 into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, Massachusetts. The 11 inductees were from a variety of organizations such as the NBA, WNBA and NCAA, and contributed to the sport in many ways. Players, coaches, and even a referee were among those honored.

Lisa Leslie was the only woman to be inducted into this year's class.

Leslie played in the WNBA for 12 years and was an All-Star for eight of those years. Leslie was a high-impact player and a key figure in leading the Los Angeles Sparks to consecutive WNBA championships in 2001 and 2002. She made the first or second team All-WNBA list every year of her career. At 6 feet 5 inches tall, Leslie was an excellent rim defender and consistently one of the best centers in the league.

Dikembe Mutombo was an NBA center that played for the Denver Nuggets, Atlanta Hawks, Philadelphia 76ers, New Jersey Nets, New York Knicks and Houston Rockets. Born in the Congo, Mutombo received a scholarship when he was 18 to play basketball at Georgetown University.

At 7 feet 2 inches tall, Mutombo towered over everyone on the court.

While he was a productive offensive player throughout his career, Mutombo was known for his defensive prowess. He was a monster at gathering defensive rebounds, and he is perhaps the best-shot blocker of all time. Mutombo had a long career, lasting 18 seasons in the NBA. He was a four-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year, a three-time block leader and a two-time rebound leader. Out-

side of basketball, he is known for his humanitarian work done in his home country.

Joseph “Jo Jo” White accomplished many feats in his basketball career. After having a great collegiate career at the University of Kansas, White was selected to play on the 1968 men's Olympic team. The team surprised everyone by going undefeated to upset Yugoslavia in the finals and win the gold medal.

White then began his storied career as a Boston Celtic. White helped lead the Celtics to NBA titles in 1974 and 1976, winning the MVP Finals honors in ‘76. His performance in game five of the 1976 Finals is his defining moment as a Celtic. In triple overtime, he led the Celtics to a 128126 victory over the Phoenix Suns.

White had 33 points, nine assists and had 60 minutes of playing time. Many basketball enthusiasts refer to the contest as “the greatest game ever played.”

His jersey, No. 10, is retired by the Celtics and hangs in the rafters at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts.

There are many famous Iron man streaks in the world of sports. There was Brett Favre’s 297 consecutive NFL games started and A.C. Green playing in 1,192 consecutive NBA games. But no streak is quite like Dick Bavetta, who served as a referee for 39 years and officiated over 2,600 consecutive games.

Bavetta saw many sights during his career. In 1992, he was the first NBA official to participate in the Olympics. In 2006, while officiating a game between the Knicks and Nuggets, a fight broke out that was so fierce Bavetta and his crew ejected all 10 players on the court. Seven of them later served suspensions handed down by the NBA commissioner at the time.

Bavetta's most memorable moment was in a prime-time game between the Celtics and 76ers. After his partner broke his leg in a collision with Celtics guard Dennis Johnson, Bavetta had to officiate the game by himself.

Later in that same game, he had to eject Larry Bird and Julius Erving after they broke out in a fight. Being able to stay in control of the game by himself between two fierce divisional foes and some of the biggest stars in the history of the sport is what elevated Bavetta to prominence as the premier official in the NBA. John Calipari made the Hall of Fame for his contributions as a college coach. While he was unsuccessful in his short stint as an NBA coach, Calipari has been phenomenal at every college he has coached at. He led both the University of Massachusetts and University of Memphis to Final Four appearances while coaching there.

As the current coach at the University of Kentucky, he has led the Wikipedia/Creative Commons team to four Final Four appearances Dikembe Mutombo (above) was one of the 11 inductees into the in the last five years. This last season Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame this year. was perhaps his best, as the Wildcats started 38-0 before a heartbreaking the ABA. He then spent 12 of the next lets before retiring. loss to Wisconsin in the Final Four.

13 years playing in the NBA, with one Next year’s hall of fame class is exCalipari has also been excellent in year spent in the Lega Basket Serie A pected to be an unforgettable one. Afdeveloping NBA talent. Calipari has league in Italy. ter much debate about Allen Iverson’s had 37 of his collegiate players drafted Haywood was one of the best of- eligibility, it was recently announced including superstars such as Derrick fensive big men of his time. At 6 feet that Iverson will be eligible for the Rose, DeMarcus Cousins, John Wall 8 inches tall, the power forward aver- NBA Hall of Fame. and more. When Anthony Davis and aged 19 points and nine rebounds a Iverson played 14 seasons in Michael Kidd Gilchrist were selected game during his career. In 1980, Hay- the NBA, highlighted by 11 All-Star No. 1 and No. 2 respectively in the wood became an NBA champion as a game appearances, four scoring titles 2012 NBA Draft, it was the only time member of the Showtime Los Angeles and the NBA MVP in the 2001 seathat a collegiate coach had two of his Lakers. After the Finals, then-Lakers son as he led the 76ers into his only players taken in the top two picks of head coach Paul Westhead dismissed Finals appearance, where he came the NBA Draft.

Haywood from the team due to drug up short against the Lakers. Iverson’s Spencer Haywood played for issues. This led to Haywood’s year in popularity amongst fans and colorful three different leagues during his 14- Italy as he tried to recollect himself. personality, along with his career stayear professional career. He played for He managed to return to the NBA for tistics, will make him a first ballot hall the Denver Rockets his rookie year of two years with the Washington Bul- of famer sooner than later.

Your 2015-2016 4x5 Columnists:

Patrick Kiernan, Alfredo Torres, Meaghan Conlon and Jesse Erickson Because we have witty things to say ...

Patrick Kiernan Editor-in-Chief

Alfredo Torres Sports Editor

Meaghan Conlon Executive Editor

Jesse Erickson Italian Spy

Yankees take the Subway Series.

Are the Mets really the top team in New York?

A 2-0 start for the Jets. Think they can keep it going or is this just early season luck?

Prez Ball is two weeks away. Will you be there?

First month of the semester is almost over, how has it gone for you?

"What a Time To Be Alive" dropped this week. Did you get to hear it, any thoughts?

Eww no. The Yankees are, and will Even though I'm a Giants fan, I always be, the best team in New will admit that the Jets defense York. Next question. is just about as solid as it was in 2009 or so. In other words, it's sick nasty. And the longer Geno Smith stays sidelined, the better.

Lol no. Haven't been to that sweatbox of an event since sophomore year.

Really great start to my (sigh) senior year. Lots of fun at the beach, and hopefully a lot more still in store. Side note: ordered a Bel-Air Academy Will Smith basketball jersey that I'm really excited to wear. Okay, I'll digress now.

Whoa, yeah it was really good.

Future is ehh, but throw Drake on any track — let alone an entire mixtape — and it becomes gold.

Plus, who doesn't love more shade being thrown Meek Mill's way?

This just shows that the Yankees are still the best in New York. No matter what injuries or struggles the Yankees may be facing, they will always crush the Mets!

Jets are the only New York football team actually doing good, so go Gang Green.

Most definitely, cant wait to dress up and show Fairfield my GQ look.

Love it! Classes are going good, the workload hasn't been that bad.

All is good, except for the fact that time is flying by too fast.

After hearing the mixtape, all I could say was "What a Time To Be Alive!" Future and Drake definitely gave us a few songs to bump to for the rest of the year. Jumpman, Jumpman, Jumpman!

The loss of the Subway Series was just to give the Yankee fans a confidence boost; their egos needed it. The Mets will be the team to watch in October — can't wait to hear Jesse's cheering all the way from Italy.

Football isn't my thing, but I'm going to support Angela here and say that the Jets will keep it going and have a stellar season. (And she prays to Jesus that Cromartie stays healthy).

Heck yeah I will — it's my last one.

Let's be honest here, it's an excuse for me to put on a cute dress, dance with my friends and have a good time.

Well. it's going. I feel old as dirt, I'm nervous about getting a job and entering the real world, and dealing with all the stress that comes with that and taking seven classes. So I'll let you know how it goes after my midterm next week.

Don't hate me for this, but I've kind of been living under a rock for the past couple days or so when it comes to music. Don't worry Pat and Alfredo, I'll be sure to listen to it as soon as I can.

The Mets are really shaping out to be the greatest baeeball team in the world. We're all sick and tired of hearing about what a great baseball team the Yankees are, SCREW 'EM!

Like the Mets, the Jets are really shaping out to be the greatest football team in the world ... I am also very bad at following sports beyond the Fairfield realm. I'm also not a football fan. I'm a bandwagon Red Sox fan.

I cannot wait to miss Prez Ball.

After spending three hours crying for absolutely no reason (I have pics and videos to prove it), I cannot be more ecstatic to be spending that weekend in Barcelona.

If you're my Facebook friend or if you're not following me on Instagram (waddupjesse), you should so that you can see for yourself how my month is going.

Did they leak my dope mixtape in America already? They couldn't have waited until I got back? Ugh America!

Sports

THE MIRROR | Week of September 23, 2015

Page 15

Tennis stars battle for U.S. Open Championship

By Gabriela Piatek Assistant Copy Editor Last Sunday the top two seeded tennis players battled it out in Ashe Stadium at the US Open, one of the four Grand Slam tournaments. The stadium, located in Flushing, Queens, is still under construction; once finished, it will be the world’s largest tennis stadium with a retractable roof. At 34, Roger Federer faced the 10-time major title winner Novak Djokovic, playing an energydraining three hour and 20 minute game in four sets that saw Djokovic pick up the 6-4, 5-7, 6-4, 6-4 victory.

“I thought it was an amazing match.

Novak Djokovic showed us why he truly is somewhat of a superhuman on the tennis court, and Roger Federer showed us that he has still got it. Even in his 30s, he is the only player to year in and year out complete at a high level of tennis,” said Danny Buono ‘17, an avid tennis fan and member of the club tennis team. The two have competed against each other in the past, this game being their 42nd battle since they’ve gone professional.

Djokovic has been ranked No. 1 by the Association of Tennis Professionals for the past three years and still seems to be unbeatable after this game. He follows in Federer’s footsteps by reaching the final round in all four of the Grand Slam tournaments in a single season, but still has a ways to go before he catches up to the Swiss player. Federer has been on his game and recently claimed to be in the best shape of life since his injury back in 2014, and this Wikimedia/Creative Commons final match was there to prove it.

ATP announced that Novak Djokovic ranks No.1 after defeating Roger Federer for the U.S Open title.

Federer gave the Serbian a difficult time

in the first hour, though he dropped the first set 6-4. He later won the second set 7-5, averaging at a serve speed of 115 mph, the fastest being at 125 mph. In this set showing off his fluid backhand, Federer’s age simply proved his expertise at the game.

Even though he is behind Federer by seven major titles, Djokovic is slowly catching up to him after this win. Though this game may have seemed to be just another easy win for Djokovic, in the end he showed his exhaustion through a roar of victory. “Playing against probably the best player in the history of the game adds a little more pressure,” ESPN tweeted Djokovic saying after his win. Many believe that Federer still has it in him to win another title and all the Federer fans support him to do just that.

However, no one expected the loss of Serena Williams in the semifinals, leaving the two Italians — Roberta Vinci and Flavia Pennetta — to compete in the finals. The women played under the watch of the Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi.

Also unexpected was the announced retirement of the US Open Women’s Champion Pennetta: “@flavia_pennetta congrats I'm so happy you won. You deserved it.

I am also happy for the rest of your life's journey. I will miss your smile,” said a tweet

by Williams.

I am already looking forward to the next Grand Slam tournament in January, where we are bound to see top-seeded players serving at the Australian Open. We may even possibly see Federer and Djokovic butt heads again, but for now, Djokovic is still celebrating his win. Serbia is proud of you Djokovic.

Gasol leads Spain to EuroBasket gold

By Alfredo Torres Sports Editor Behind the leadership and play of Pau Gasol, Spain has won its second consecutive European basketball championship title. Spain faced off against Lithuania this past Sunday in front of a record-breaking crowd of 27,372 at Stade PierreMauroy stadium in Lille, France and cruised to a 80-63 victory.

Spain came into the tournament missing big names off their roster like Oklahoma City Thunder’s Serge Ibaka, Memphis Grizzlies’ Marc Gasol and the Minnesota Timberwolves’ own Ricky Rubio.

On Saturday, Sept. 12, the first games of the round of 16 commenced. Spain was set to take on Poland, which included NBA veteran and current Washington Wizard Marcin Gortat. Spain and Poland battled for the majority of the game, with Poland holding the lead heading into the final minutes of the third.

That would change quickly as Spain’s Nikola Mirotic converted an “and-one” play which started the scoring run by Spain. Sergio Llull followed Mirotic by scoring on two consecutive possessions. Spain did not stop there as they connected on two consecutive three point shots off the hands of Sergio Rodriguez and Gasol to make it a 12-2 run and give Spain a 69-57 lead. Behind Gasol’s 30 points, where he connected for six of seven three pointers, Spain would cruise the rest of the way to pick up the win.

Spain advanced to the quarterfinals where they had a meeting with a tough Greece team.

Greece gave Spain the most trouble as they led for the majority of the game. Spain entered the fourth quarter down by only two.

Spain decided to attack the paint for the remaining minutes of the game as they were able to draw four fouls in the first minute of the quarter.

Greece was only able to add three points in the first seven minutes. Spain was able to squeeze

by Greece 73-71, as Giannis Antetokounmpo missed on an open shot to win the game. Gasol

Wikipedia/Creative Commons Chicago Bulls star Pau Gasol led Spain to its second consecutive European championship. Gasol led Spain in scoring and was awarded MVP.

lead the team with 27 points and nine rebounds.

Next on the list for Spain was the star-studded France team that included players like Tony Parker, Evan Fournier, Boris Diaw, Rudy Gobert and Nicolas Batum, all of whom play for an NBA club. France knocked down a clutch three-pointer with 13 seconds remaining in the game, forcing the game into overtime tied at 66. But with 18 seconds remaining, Gasol slammed down a powerful put-back dunk to give Spain a 78-75 lead.

France had one shot at a comeback after Batum was fouled at the three-point arc, but failed to make one free throw.

Gasol grabbed the rebound and dunked it home for his 40th point of the game, which marked an international career-high.

Spain had one more team to defeat on its way to the gold. Lithuania shocked many as they beat Serbia, who was undefeated up until that point.

The final matchup was ready as Gasol was set to lead his team against Lithuania.

Spain was in the driver’s seat from the get-go, as they started the game with a 15-4 lead after a Gasol dunk. Spain continued to show its offensive prowess as they kept the buckets coming.

Spain would increase their lead to 16 in the second quarter. Lithuania would battle back into the game, cutting the lead down by eight at the end of the half.

Spain dominated in the first half and continued in the second half to take control of the game.

With less than six minutes remaining in the third,

Spain would go on an 11-2 run that increased Spain’s lead to 20 as they led 53-35. Spain would never allow the lead to drop to single digits for the remaining of the game.

Gasol finished the game with 25 points and 12 rebounds to lead Spain to its third European trophy in the last four championships. Gasol was awarded tournament MVP for his play throughout the tournament.

“It’s of special significance to play this well at this stage of my career after all I’ve accomplished,” said Gasol in a statement to ESPN. With this victory, Spain has clinched a spot in the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and looks to be the United States’ toughest competitor.

SPORTS 16

@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports

Sports Editor: Alfredo Torres » sports@fairfieldmirror.com

Week of September 23, 2015

Stags drop home opener to Fordham

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror

By Kelsey Shockey Contributing Writer The Fairfield Stags and the Fordham Rams battled it out at Fairfield’s home opener on Saturday, Sept. 19 at Lessing Field, but the Rams would leave with the 3-2 win to clinch their first win of their season.

According to Rashid Nuhu, the goalkeeper for the Rams, “We came in the game really confident and eager to get our first win of the season and we wanted to really work our opponent. It feels good to have gotten that off of our shoulders.”

The intensity was high throughout the entire game. The Stags and Rams are very similar in terms of their style of play, but the Stags missed several opportunities with final passes and defending set pieces.

Sophomore Charlie Reed said, “The game was full of mixed emotions. We had moments where everything was flowing and clicking, but we also had moments

where we couldn't connect a pass.”

In the first 15 minutes of the game, the pace started out slow as the Stags and Rams needed some time to get into a rhythm.

Both teams started out playing more defensively, making them vulnerable for counterattacks.

However, the Rams finally broke the ice in the 27th minute of the first half getting ahead with a score of 1-0 after they were awarded a corner kick. Midfielder Janos Loebe was given the golden opportunity to strike the ball toward the center box where midfielder and defender Christopher Bazzini received the ball and hit it towards the bottom of the cross bar, which then passed the goal line.

“Both teams were being secured and not wanting to concede the first goal. But the momentum changed after the first goal and Fairfield wanted to get the equalizer while Fordham wanted to get more goals.

That’s when the game opened up,” Nuhu

said.

The second half quickened in pace as the Stags wanted to execute more offensively and impose their style of play on the Rams. However, it would be the Rams who came to dominate the pace by first slowing things down and then strategically speeding things up again.

“We knew Fairfield would come out very strong for the first 10 minutes of the second half so we just wanted to ride that out. Once you have the lead it's a little easier to control the pace of the game,” Bazzini said.

Sophomore forward Ben Wignall scored the first goal for the Stags by sending a volley to the corner of the goal to boost the score to 2-1. Later on, Dominic Marshall ’17 took a penalty kick that was saved by Nuhu and then was saved again after Marshall attempted a header that flew toward the other side of the goal.

Senior goalkeeper, Matt Turner said.

“We need to win more 50/50 balls and defend set plays better. Also, when we’re chasing the game, we need to balance risk and safety better so that those counterattacks don’t happen as we commit more numbers forward.”

After forward Andres Penfold scored the third goal for the Rams with 35 seconds left in the game, Marshall was able to successfully execute his fourth goal of the season, leading to the final score of 3-2 for the Rams.

“There was good energy, a ‘never say die’ attitude, and we showed character while chasing the game. I think that we needed to have more periods of sustained pressure and to be more clinical in the final third. On another night, we would have pulled out the win there, but that’s just how the game is,” Turner said.

Fairfield’s next game will be against Manhattan at Lessing Field on Wednesday, Sept. 30.