9/26

Justice for Bert & Ernie

Human Form

Historical Start

Opinion

Vine

Sports

“Sesame Street” needs to truly embrace full inclusivity

Pilobolous gives phenomenal performance

Jackie Kane leads Stags to historical start

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THE MIRROR Independent student newspaper

Week of Sepember 26, 2018

Vol. 44 Iss. 4

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Despite Storm Election Carries On

By Julia Monteleone Assistant News Editor

The rain came down on Sept. 25 as the winners of the Fairfield University Student Association Senatorial election for the class of 2022 and the special election for the class of 2019 were announced. What was meant to be a celebration at The Levee in honor of the announcement became only a mass email sent with the results.

A massive storm hit Fairfield University, causing classes and activities after 6:45 p.m., including the party that was supposed to be held that evening, to be called off. The results consisted of five new members from the first-year class and one from the senior class being elected to the senate.

Last year only four seniors were elected to the senate, and therefore the special election was held to fill the fifth seat.

The special election consisted of only one candidate from the class of 2019. Michael Clarkson ran unopposed and won with 89 votes.

He said, “I’m surprised I won, there was some tough competition.

I hope to give back to the Fairfield U community as much as possible.”

Clarkson hopes to coordinate transportation for students who live at the beach but do not have cars. He believes that this, along with carpooling, would help the University - Michael Clarkson ‘19 become more environmentally friendly. Beach

“

I’m surprised I won, there was some tough competition. I hope to give back to the Fairfield U community as much as possible.”

transportation was also highlighted during the FUSA presidential election last spring.

FUSA President Danielle Rice ‘19 wanted to implement a safe rides home program for students coming back to campus from the beach.

The five first-years elected to the senate consisted of Tyler Heffern, Jack Stalzer, Sarah Bowden, Amelia Kedik and Alexander Vulcano.

FUSA announced that there was a discrepancy in the voting system. According to the mass email sent, “There was an issue with the logic of the online class of 2022 OrgSync ballot that affected five voters, they were prompted to submit an additional write-in candidate despite not having cast a vote for a write-in candidate.”

The FUSA Court made the executive decision to count the candidates that the five voters that were affected by this discrepancy chose, not the write-ins.

First- year Tyler Heffern is a politics major from Stratford, Conn. who hopes to create change and better not only his class but also the University. Heffern expressed how honored he feels to be a part of the FUSA Senate this year.

Heffern said, “I am excited to begin work to fulfill some of my campaign commitments, including installing water bottle fillers in every first-year residence hall and ensuring the maintenance of all on-campus WEPA printing stations. Beyond this, I would like the student body to become more socially active and so I will encourage the creation and growth of many student organizations on campus.”

Having a background in politics, Heffern served as the vice president of his high school class and also helped on multiple campaigns in his hometown. The other firstyears elected did not make a comment on their election to the FUSA Senate.

The voter turnout for the election was low, especially from the first-year class.

In a text response to being asked why she did not vote, Joselyn Acevedo ‘22 said, “In all honesty, it was a mixture of me not knowing that exactly the voting was even for and also having more important things to worry about (lab practical, chem exam on Friday, etc.)”

FUSA encourages students to join them at their next General Senate Meeting Oct. 3 at 6 p.m. in the lower level John A. Barone Campus Center.

Cake by the Long Island Sound

By Julia Monteleone Assistant News Editor

Under the stadium lights of Lessing Field at the Saturday, Sept. 22 Fairfield University Men’s Soccer game, a quiet went over the crowd as the halftime buzzer went off and the players left for the locker room. The silence was due to the long-awaited reveal of who would be performing at this year’s Red Sea Madness concert event.

A video clip began to play over the jumbotron.

Clips from the past two years began to play,

showcasing 2016 guest Lil’ Dicky and 2017’s T-Pain as they performed at Alumni Hall. Finally, the impending announcement was made and a mixture of excited gasps and confusion filled the air, DNCE would be the 2018 concert performer.

“I was expecting something a little more exciting. I don’t listen to DNCE,” said Yann Konan ’20.

The Mirror took a poll on Facebook in which 22 people responded and 68% said they are “excited!”

However, 32% of respondents replied with “No.”

DNCE is well-known for hits such as “Cake by the Ocean” and “Kissing Strangers” as well as for having Joe Jonas as their lead singer. Jonas, who started the band in 2015, is well-known, mainly for his part in the band the Jonas Brothers early on in his music career.

Sophomore Abby McCarthy had one prerequisite for DNCE: “If they don’t play ‘Year 3000,’ I’m going to be really upset.”

The motivation of students to see DNCE is unclear.

Many seem more excited to fulfill their pre-teen dream of Read Jonas on Page 2

Claire Monahan/The Mirror

During the Fairfield Men’s soccer game against St. Joseph’s University on Saturday night, students cheered on players while waiting for the halftime announcement.

News

THE MIRROR | Week of September 26, 2018

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Jonas Brothers Frontman Comes to Fairfield Continued from Page 1

seeing Joe Jonas rather than hear the band itself.

DNCE is a genre change after the previous two performers being rap artists.

The Fairfield University Student Association, which puts on the event, was aware of this pattern. Director of the programming board, Olivia McEvoy ‘19, explained “FUSA wanted a new and refreshing take on the fall concert, as we have tended to have the same kinds of artists for the last couple of years. We knew we wanted to go in a more pop direction, and had heard really great things about DNCE performing at other schools and that they put on a phenomenal show.”

Senior Lina Foncello said that she was she happy about the change, “It’s nice to switch up the genre after the past two years.” Then, in response to the question of whether she thinks DNCE will be better than T-Pain she gave a resounding, “Yes for sure.”

The pop band is set to perform on Friday, Oct. 12. However, the Red Sea ticket price has increased from last year. This year students must pay $45 in order to gain entry to Alumni Hall for the event. Last year, tickets were on sale for $40 for students. Both of these prices are much higher compared to the $25 students paid for Lil’ Dicky in 2016.

McEvoy related the ticket price to the notoriety of an artist, “In terms of pricing, that is something that is factored as a result of who the artist is.”

Similar to previous years, there will be food trucks such as Colony Grill, Super Duper Weenie and Garden Catering.

Claire Monahan/The Mirror

Claire Monahan/The Mirror

Vice President Matthew Marshall ‘19 and FUSA President Danielle Rice ‘19 (left) and Thomas Boutros ‘20 and Olivia McEvoy ‘19 (right) turned up for the soccer game.

Gun Violence as a Health Issue A Congressman, a public health expert and a clinical psychologist participate in panel discussion

By Sabina Dirienzo Chief Copy Editor

The problem of gun violence in America is often conceptualized in terms of assault rifles and mass shootings, not the violence some communities face daily.

In the John A. Barone Campus Center Oak Room on Sept. 20, three panelists sought to discuss gun violence as a broader American problem.

“Gun Violence as Public Health Crisis” was moderated by Melissa Quan, director for the Center for Faith & Public Life. The three panelists were Dr. Patrick Kelley, distinguished visiting fellow in the Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies, Dr. Bradley Stolbach, associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Chicago and clinical director of Healing Hurt People and Congressman Jim Himes, United States Representative for Connecticut’s Fourth District (D- Conn.)

In addition to his position at Fairfield University, Kelley is the founder of the Forum on Global Violence Prevention at the National Academies of Science.

In attendance at this event were Fairfield University students as well as community members, including members of the non-profit anti-gun violence organization Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America wearing bright red shirts with their logo. One of the women from Moms Demand Action brought a baby with her, who squeaked from its carrier as the panelists discussed gun violence.

While some seats toward the front of the Oak Room were left empty, many students sat on benches or on the floor at the back of the room. Senior Annie Kamradt, Fall intern for the Fairfield University Art Museum, reported that the Oak Room was at its capacity of 400 people.

The event was a first-year experience thrive event.

“This event was different than other #UNLOAD events because it focused on a new facet of the ‘gun debate.’ I had never considered gun violence to be a public health crisis until I heard about this panel,”

said Kamradt.

Quan had the three speakers introduce themselves and their perspectives in five to eight minutes, and then asked them questions she had prepared and questions from the audience.

Kelley explained gun violence as a public health issue, and pointed out that nearly two thirds of gun deaths come from suicides. Kelley quoted journalist Stephen Lurie to say that, “Where we worry the most, we can help the least, and where we could help most, we care the least.” By this he explained that he meant that gun deaths by suicide or in urban areas, for example, are more predictable and preventable than mass shootings — but no one seems to care.

In Chicago, Stolbach works on helping what he Sabina Dirienzo/The Mirror described as, “Interpersonal and identity-based violence Himes, Stolbach, Kelley and Quan (left to right) speak to a packed room full of students and the public. that’s happening in racially and not even to the point where we can get to gress and around the country, gets bogged economically segregated commugood answers.” down in the matter of ‘pro gun’ vs. ‘anti nities.” The organization he is a clinical All three of the panelists, throughout gun’ — and when that is the extent of the director for, Healing Hurt People, seeks to the event, focused on the need for research. conversation, constructive policy changes help children impacted by gun violence — Stolbach particularly focused on the issue cannot happen. some of whom may have participated in of the lack of research where Chicago is “Hearing that the gun violence issue violence themselves — with the psychologconcerned, saying that, “Part of our public should not be addressed as ‘pro’ or ‘anti’ ical injuries they carry forward with them. health approach has to be: ‘who’s putting really changed my perspective,” said Jimmy First-year Zola Bernardi reflected on guns in the hands of children?’” because Folks ‘22.

Stolbach’s contributions to the discussion. many of the guns that end up in Chicago “Gun Violence as Public Health Cri“Learning about the statistics of children are illegal – and without research, they sis” was part of the series of events planned that are grown up and exposed to gun viocannot find out where they come from. around “#UNLOAD: Guns in the Hands lence is truly sad,” Bernardi said.

Senior Katherine Reilly stated, of Artists”, the exhibit currently on display Himes, who pointed out that he “Hearing the perspectives of three different in the Fairfield University Art Museum’s was the only panelist who did not have a individuals with different backgrounds was Walsh Gallery. Other events planned doctorate, spoke on gun violence from the extremely helpful. My first year at Fairfield around #UNLOAD include the Sept. 12 perspective of public policy. He explained I did a research project on gun violence panel discussion “Gun Violence in Conthat the 1996 Dickey Amendment, which in the U.S. This topic is something I am necticut: Realities and Paths Forward” and bars the Centers for Disease Control and a Sept. 25 talk by artist Bradley McCallum Prevention from using research to advocate extremely passionate about.”

Himes, on the gun control debate, regarding the transformation of guns into for gun control, has often been used to said, “It’s better to be persuasive than to be art. block any research on gun control again. right.” He said that the argument, in ConBecause of this, Himes said, “We’re

News

THE MIRROR | Week of September 26, 2018

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The Mirror Reflects on this Week in Social Media:

Compiled by Claire Monahan Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.

Thursday, 9/20 1:12 p.m.

A student reported that he was assaulted while off campus. Both parties have been identified and the investigation is ongoing.

6:35 p.m.

A person was stuck in the freight elevator in the John A. Barone Campus Center. The person was rescued.

Friday. 9/21 6:05 p.m.

A person was stuck in the freight elevator in the John A. Barone Campus Center. The person was rescued.

9:58 p.m.

A student was identified publicly urinating in the west Aloysius P. Kelley Center parking lot. The student was identified and referred to student conduct.

Saturday, 9/22 7:46 p.m.

DPS assisted the Fairfield Police Department with a reported assault that occurred earlier in the day at the beach involving students. One of the students involved required medical attention. Fairfield PD is investigating the incident.

8:07 p.m.

Several mailboxes were ripped off of doors in Loyola Hall. The student was identified and referred to student conduct.

Sunday, 9/23 9:59 p.m.

A stop sign was vandalized behind the Leslie C. Quick Recreation Complex.

10:37 p.m.

A student was found in possession of narcotics at the Townhouses. The student was referred to student conduct.

Check out fairfieldmirror.com for the full list of crimes this week.

THE MIRROR Incorporated 1977

Alicia Phaneuf, Editor-in-Chief Cara Lee, Executive Editor Deanna Carbone, Managing Editor Editors Sabina Dirienzo, Chief Copy Sabrina Trueheart, Copy Claire Monahan, News Julia Monteleone, Assistant News Lexi Thimble, Opinion Katherine Klima, Vine Alle Scanlon, Assistant Vine Julia Crews, Coffee Break Patrick Getz, Co-Sports Daniel Montgomery, Co-Sports Christopher LaZazzera, Assistant Sports Business Department Email: info@fairfieldmirror.com Natalia Macchio, Director of Finance Adviser Professor Matt Tullis Contact Information Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, BCC 104 Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824 General email: info@fairfieldmirror.com

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 26, 2018

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Conference Features Host of ‘Stay Tuned’

By Alicia Phaneuf Editor-in-Chief

What does it mean to consume media in the 21st century? With the combination of Baby Boomers, who still prefer that hard-copy black and white newspaper, and the Millennials — or the “microwave generation” — who prefer to receive content as quickly as possible through various social media and mobile applications, media companies are developing new and innovative ways to target all types of consumers.

On Saturday, Sept. 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. some Fairfield University students of the School of Communication, Arts and Media awoke to a bright, sunny day, and headed to the Dogwood Room for the University’s first “Converging and Emerging Media Conference,” organized by the School of Communication, Arts and Media in the College of Arts and Sciences.

The conference consisted of four different sessions where students from Fairfield, Southern Connecticut State University and Manhattanville College were able to present different research projects they conducted that focused on media and the digital realm.

During the conference, co-host of NBC’s Snapchat channel “Stay Tuned,” Lawrence K. Jackson, delivered a keynote address, which discussed what it means to be a media consumer and provider in the modern era. Jackson explained that media is currently evolving and expanding. These different forms of media are overlapping, and the goal is to make sure they don’t clash in a way where social and digital media harm the effects of print or linear media – non-linear media (digital) is media that can be interacted with by the consumer, comparatively, linear media is non-interactive. He stressed that digital and linear media are not competitors as the overall goal of both is to spread information to as many people as possible.

During an interview with Jackson, he said, “There’s a fine line between including what kids want to know about and what they need to know about. We try to mix it in, and one thing I pride myself on is bringing my personal taste to it [Stay Tuned].”

Jackson discussed an example of how his personal experiences contributed to the show. One time he wanted to cover the Ethiopian-Eritrean conflict. These are two neighboring countries that were a singular state until Eritrea achieved independence in 1991, and were at war with each other from 1998 until July 2018. Jackson has friends who are Ethiopian and Eritrean, who spoke with him about this war, and he described the intense separation of families

caused as a result. Jackson explained that when this war ended in summer 2018, his friends were so happy, and he wanted to bring this story to light, as many U.S. platforms weren’t giving it much attention.

Making content relatable to the Millennial generation is exactly what “Stay Tuned” hopes to accomplish. NBC’s partnership with Snapchat was created in part because NBC is dedicated to generating news and they wanted a way to reach the Millennial generation with their content.

Jackson is the newest host to the series – he joined Savannah Sellers and Gadi Schwartz – and explained that his belief in what they were doing, and his ability to bring a new scale or new point of view, was what drove him to be a part of “Stay Tuned.”

Jackson explained that “Stay Tuned”

is powerful because it crosses over platforms. He enjoys seeing kids engage with the news, and the engagement with the series is high as people will constantly message or tweet Jackson about different segments. According to Jackson, “Stay Tuned” receives 35 million unique visitors and 75 percent of the audience is under the age of 25. This snapchat series is focused on getting people to watch and learn about what’s important to them.

“The goal is not for digital to wipe out linear … this is about bringing digital in as well and having both [digital and linear] live. Some content lives better on digital, some content lives better on TV, so if you just want to recycle more evergreen content, digital is the place,” said Jackson.

One characteristic that was inherently obvious when observing Jackson in

Alicia Phaneuf/TheMirror

Lawrence Jackson speaks to students at ‘Converging and Emerging Media Conference.’

an interview, during lunch and while he presented a speech, is that his personality, witty humor and relatability does not change from setting to setting. Rather, Jackson likes to speak the same way while he’s delivering a speech or hosting “Stay Tuned” as he would when talking with a friend.

During his address, Jackson said, “This generation right now is all about transparency and honesty. No one is perfect, and the generation below us likes to see that more. People have to feel comfortable in this space.”

Jackson also delivered advice for creative people who aspire to deliver their own content. He explained that, in this digital world, it’s important to publish one’s content on an individual basis rather than just give it away. He gave the example – this story coincidentally aired the 22nd at 2:00 p.m. – of Spotify allowing independent artists to upload their own music. He explained that people’s own values and life experiences are valuable.

“Own who you are, and you will see that it brings you further,” said Jackson.

The linear age of media is here – Facebook and Twitter are platforms. Jackson stated that it’s imperative that people embrace what’s coming. “There are few spaces that are not intimidated by what’s coming next, and some companies are going to keep going with what they know until their numbers go down.”

He explained that NBC was the first company to go color on TV and their success is largely because they embrace what’s to come. “Stay Tuned” is the first news station of its kind. It directly allows young adults and teenagers to be immersed into the world’s happenings, has made sure that followers can view past episodes in a library and recently launched a YouTube channel and an Instagram page. Jackson also hopes that “Stay Tuned” will continue on to include Twitter so that everything can be kept uniform.

“To see kids engaging with the news, what is essentially the news, is pretty unique and pretty cool,” said Jackson.

He concluded his speech by touching upon all departments and majors, and why every person’s talents are needed in society. He explained that the world needs musicians to share their music, artists to create valuable works, scientists to teach people about climate change and writers to tell the truth.

Jackson encouraged students to, “Use digital space to be a truth teller. Use social media to tell the truth and to motivate. You are your own business, network and TV station.”

Faculty Project Highlights Importance of Literacy in Post-Slavery America

By Kallan Hook Contributing Writer

On Tuesday, Sept. 25 at 5 p.m. in the Dogwood Room, professor of English Dr. Betsy Bowen Ph.D. presented her research on literacy deficiencies amongst the last of generation of enslaved Americans. This event marks the culmination of Bowen’s intimate research on the stark educational inequalities that emerged in the early 1930s. With approximately 2,300 interviews of enslaved Americans collected, Bowen and her students began to dive deeper into the lack of literacy amongst generations.

Upon taking a short sabbatical, Bowen uncovered hundreds of interviews of former slaves discussing the various reasons as to why they lacked such foundational literacy standards. She highlighted one of the many individuals in Zek Brown. At almost 30-yearsold, Brown lacked any educational background. Rather than attending school with fellow classmates, he was responsible for taking care of house and yard work. During his late 20s, Brown began to study books and teach himself how to read. Although Brown is one of the many individuals whom Bowen had the opportunity to study, his story encouraged her to seek a greater understanding of such a stark contrast develops between white and black literacy standards following the Civil War. When discussing Bowen’s findings she suggested, “people in power have a fear of literacy.”

Such a sentiment helps to describe how following the Civil War and the Emancipation Proclamation, individuals were still left uneducated. Education provides a sense of

“

power that was prohibited amongst the enslaved class. Therefore, Bowen continued to study the progression of American literacy in the generation of the last enslaved Americans.

At the completion of her research, Bowen categorized her findings into four themes: restriction by law, restriction by poverty -Dr. Betsy Bowen Ph.D. and segregation, resistance, and achievement.

While each interview tells an individual’s unique story, one of the encompassing themes is the overwhelming desire for literacy. Hundreds of the enslaved Americans found ways to reach a level of literacy, with many turning towards the Bible to read scripture, or otherwise finding pens and scraps of paper.

Sophomore Joanna Mastropaola recounted on the impact of the event, “It was very moving reading and hearing about the struggles of the last living enslaved people.”

Bowen’s passion and enthusiasm for her research has not be left unnoticed. Her dedication to her studies has amounted to an educational platform that helps students better comprehend the explosive literacy gap amongst enslaved and white Americans.

People in power have a fear of literacy.”

THE MIRROR | Week of September 26, 2018

Opinion

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

Getting Opinionated with The Mirror

Bert and Ernie: There's Nothing Shameful About Being Gay

By Lexi Thimble Opinion Editor

only gay? There's much more to a human being than just straightness or gayness.”

I’d like to first off pose a question in response to Mr. Oz and “Sesame Street” alike: both of you claim you stand for inclusion, the statement from “Sesame Street” even starting by saying, “Sesame Street has always stood for inclusion and acceptance.” And you may think that it doesn’t matter that you’ve flatly denied the fact that Bert and Ernie are gay, but if it matters so little to you whether they are or not, why can’t you leave it up to what your audience wants? Saltzman’s interview was met with much enthusiasm, especially among those who identify as LGBTQ+. Why does it matter so much that these revelations are denied on multiple fronts? I’m going to submit it’s because, as much as “Sesame Street” likes to label itself as inclusive and as much as I felt that they did just that as I grew up watching their program, being gay is still something that is thought of as shameful, a notion that large corporations haven’t dispelled.

This could’ve been handled in a vastly different way; I’ve seen it happen before, where fans could walk away happy without having creators of characters they thought of as reflections of themselves reject them outright.

Mark Hamill, the actor who since the original films has portrayed Luke Skywalker in “Star Wars,” has discussed the subject of Luke’s sexuality multiple times on both Twitter and during Comic Con panels. In an interview with jogsjogjgofjg-

I grew up, as many other members of my generation did, watching PBS; up until early elementary school that was literally the only thing I watched. It stands to reason then that TV personalities like Mr. Rogers and the characters on “Sesame Street” became huge parts of my life, and I think of those times often, especially now that I’m more grown up and can see the influence they have on current generations.

While I was always more of an Elmo fan myself, Bert and Ernie, with their shared apartment and constant, loving squabbling was something that entertained me just as much, and which I took for granted after growing up. However, when you start reevaluating your own sexuality, you start looking at things from your childhood from a different perspective. Suddenly things make a lot more sense, like when it’s pointed out that Ursula from “The Little Mermaid” was based on a drag queen, or that many Disney villains are queer-coded, meaning they’re given stereotypically gay mannerisms that are linked with their evilness.

Or, as has happened most recently, when former “Sesame Street” writer Mark Saltzman stated on Sept. 16 in a Queerty.com interview that he didn’t “think [he’d] know how else to write [Bert and Ernie], but as a loving couple.” Saltzman continued on to say that he’d based many of Bert and Ernie’s interactions on ones he’d have with his partner of over twenty years, Arnold Glassman, saying that, “I didn’t have any other way to contextualize them… more than one person referred to Arnie & I as ‘Bert & Ernie.’”

I mentioned before that, as I got older and started noticing more of what you could call “gay undertones” to things in my childhood, the more I took Bert and Ernie for granted. Just looking at them and how they cared for each other, of course they were a couple; maybe a dysfunctional one, but one that loved each other at the end of the day. It may be strange to think of puppets in this way, but if we can all acknowledge that Kermit and Miss Piggy have had a forty year long, well-documented, tempestuous relationship, why is it such a leap then to accept the given that is Bert and Ernie? And why then did “Sesame Street” itself have to poke such a large hole in this innocent bubble by releasing a statement on Twitter denying Saltzman’s words, saying that, “Bert and Ernie were created to be best friends, and to teach young children that people can get along with those who are very different from themselves.” Frank Oz, an original co-creator of Bert and Ernie’s characters, also added on Twitter, “It seems Mr. Mark Saltzman was asked if Bert & Ernie are gay.

It's fine that he feels they are. They're not, of course. But why that question? Does it really Creative Commons/telegraph.co.uk matter? Why the need to define people as

Britain’s The Sun, Hamill revealed that, "...fans are writing and ask all these questions, 'I'm bullied in school... I'm afraid to come out.’ They say to me, 'Could Luke be gay?' I'd say it is meant to be interpreted by the viewer... If you think Luke is gay, of course he is. You should not be ashamed of it. Judge Luke by his character, not by who he loves.”

This is exactly how fan theories need to be addressed. It is understandable if conclusions are drawn by fans that weren’t originally intended by the writers or creators, but when it comes to a matter of sexuality, the most important aspect that must be emphasized is exactly how Hamill himself put it: fans shouldn’t feel ashamed for thinking of their favorite characters the way they see themselves, and those in charge should take a neutral stance to leave things up to interpretation.

This is all not even to mention “Sesame Street’s” original statement on Twitter, which was quoted on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert on Sept. 19 but was later taken down and replaced with the one I mentioned previously. The original statement said, “As we have always said, Bert and Ernie are best friends. They were created to teach preschoolers that people can be good friends with those who are very different from themselves. Even though they are identified as male characters and possess many human traits and characteristics (as most Sesame Street Muppets™ do), they remain puppets, and do not have a sexual orientation.”

The argument could be made that this tweet is almost better, that the distinction being made of a lack of a sexuality leaves room for those who identify as asexual. While I fully support those who identify as asexual or aromantic, and find these identities completely valid, I encourage people to seek better representations of these identities than to try and find it in a technicality here. Also, to again bring in Kermit and Miss Piggy, they’re proof that puppets do have sexual orientations – as long as that orientation is heterosexual.

Let’s call this what it is: it’s homophobia, a visceral claim that may not seem to match what’s happened here, but that’s what it is all the same. Homophobia, like other means of discrimination, have subtler, more veiled ways of appearing in this day and age. In this case, It’s the reinforcement of the stigma of shame around gay people, about emphasizing the sexual nature of their identities to make them seem unsavory and not appropriate for exposure to children, a kinder way of calling gays pedophiles as they’ve been labelled for decades. I love “Sesame Street,” I really do; my memories of Big Bird in his nest, Elmo chatting with Maya Angelou or Cookie Monster losing control over chocolate-chip cookies will always be dear to me. But whether “Sesame Street” likes it or not, we’ve entered an age where many families watching these characters can include gay parents, and what message does that send to children, that the love their parents share is something shameful, something they can’t even find reflected in Bert and Ernie?

Ford Takes A Stand for Victims of Sexual Assault

By Daniel Messier Contributing Writer

Christine Blasey Ford, a 51-year-old research psychologist at Palo Alto University in California, is now willing to testify before Congress that she was sexually assaulted over three decades ago by Supreme Court Justice nominee Brett Kavanaugh. An email sent from her lawyers to the Senate Judiciary Committee confirms that she will be willing to testify the week of Monday the 24th provided she is offered, “terms that are fair and which ensure her safety.” Ford, who claims to have been held down, groped and physically restrained from screaming by Kavanaugh as a teenager, is now receiving death threats.

Kavanaugh has categorically denied these statements, saying, “I did not do that back in high school or at any time.” President Trump responded to the allegations saying “If the attack on Dr. Ford was as bad as she says, charges would have been immediately filed with local Law Enforcement.” Ford has also yet to testify, so it would be unwise to come to judgement before her testimony. That being said, it seems unlikely that Ford is lying in an attempt to slander Kavanaugh; there is no clear motive to do so. Ford is clearly hesitant to go public with the information and was not planning on going public until reporters got ahold of the story.

Furthermore, evidence shows that Ford mentioned the sexual assault to her therapist as early as 2012. She even took a polygraph test in August and was not found to be deceiving in any way.

What I would like to point out about this hearing, and the Kavanaugh appointment in general, is that it is a political hearing, not a legal one. The members of Congress who will hear this testimony have no authority to convict Kavanaugh. Although it would be difficult to bring a case that occured over 30 years ago to court, he could still be criminally tried. In essence, this hearing should be about the validity of Ford’s testimony and its impact on Kavanaugh’s credentials to become one of the most powerful people in the country.

All things considered, Kavanaugh should not be confirmed to the Supreme Court.

Editorial Board "Virgins Do Crimes, Too" Alicia Phaneuf Editor-in-Chief Cara Lee Executive Editor Deanna Carbone Managing Editor

You’re a virgin that can’t drive. If you haven’t been living under a rock for the past two weeks, you’re familiar with the Brett Kavanaugh scandal. In an interview with Fox News, Brett Kavanaugh said that he “was a virgin through high school and for ‘many years after.’" And thus, he could not have committed the sexual assault actions that he is accused of by Christine Blasey Ford or Deborah Ramirez.

Let’s be clear. Ford has accused Kavanaugh of ATTEMPTED rape. If the rape was attempted – then sure, Kavanaugh can still be a virgin. But does that make him innocent of sexual assault?

As for Ramirez, apparently Kavanaugh claims

President Donald J. Trump’s administration has been plagued by sexual assault cases, with at least a dozen women accusing the president himself of sexual assault. It would make little sense for the administration to stand by Kavanaugh and risk mobilizing the Democratic base. Furthermore, this is a case that will most likely not have a conclusive decision because of the time that has passed, and it will continue to haunt President Trump and the GOP should Kavanaugh be confirmed.

The hearing also draws comparison to the Anita Hill hearing in 1991. Hill, who claimed Justice Clarence Thomas sexually harassed her during his confirmation hearings, was hardly given justice, faced by an all-male panel and campaigns against her that were “unfair.” Her testimony was dismissed by many senators as being hearsay and Thomas was soon confirmed to the Supreme Court. Although this terrible handling of the Anita Hill hearing can never be redeemed, it would prove a substantial step in the right direction if Kavanaugh were to be denied the Supreme Court position.

Brett Kavanaugh is vying to be one of the most powerful men in the country. Anyone who holds the position of Supreme Court Justice should be morally upright and have as spotless a record as humanly possible. By these standards, Brett Kavanaugh does not appear to be the best person for this job. Congress needs to sincerely listen to Christine Blasey Ford’s account, and, if it appears to be serious, they need to deny Kavanaugh from the Supreme Court position.

Kavanaugh has also recently been accused of sexual assault by Deborah Ramirez while both were attending Yale University, as reported by The New Yorker. Ramirez claims that Kavanaugh exposed himself to her and forced her to touch his genitalia without her consent. As is the case with Ford, the senate should take this allegation seriously and should consider whether Kavanaugh, who has now been accused of two separate instances of sexually assaulting women, is fit to uphold the law of the nation.

that being a virgin prevents him from being able to pull down his pants and shove his penis in a girl’s face. Makes sense.

What makes less sense are all the other people sympathizing with this dusty man. Tweets have been shared saying that, since he was young and drunk, he shouldn’t be held accountable for his actions.

Yet, the other side of the same coin is doubting Ford because she was young and drunk. It’s as if the #MeToo movement never happened and we took a thousand steps back. It feels as if those who are accused of assault will always be protected by higher powers, including the President

himself. If Kavanaugh ends up being exonerated and becomes a member of the Supreme Court, not only are victims of sexual assault being let down, but the American people as a whole.

Kavanaugh’s attempt to justify his reputation by saying he was a virgin in high school is irritating, as this statement has nothing to do with what he was accused of. Just because a man has never inserted his genitals into a woman’s vagina does not mean that he never performed an act of sexual assault. Attempting rape and exposing oneself to a woman are both actions that can be completed while still maintaining one’s virginity.

THE MIRROR | Week of September 26, 2018

Opinion

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'My Favorite Murder' Injects True Crime with Humor

By Catherine Santangelo Contributing Writer

Rising in popularity, and being a top 10 regular on the iTunes comedy podcast charts, “My Favorite Murder” is a true crime story podcast, created in January of 2016. Hosted by T.V. writer and comedian Karen Kilgariff and Cooking Channel host and writer Georgia Hardstark, the podcast covers murder cases, while adding comedic twists to these chilling tales. The podcast has a growing fan club whose members call themselves the ‘murderinos’. Since it is such a unique and controversial idea for a podcast, it sure has caught the attention of both its listeners and the media.

Despite “My Favorite Murder” having a dedicated and expanding fan base, it has received many criticisms about its approach to the topic of murder. A major criticism is that Kilgariff and Hardstark are not treating the act of murder as seriously as it should be treated. Though many find this comedy approach appealing, the show “oscillates between loquacious sympathy and blunt wisecracks”. They “ditched the genre’s dry investigative tone in favor of wry humor” in order to gain the attention of their listeners. To this critique, Hardstark says “the only way we know how to deal with the horrors of life is through humor”. I think that this is a very relatable statement whether people realize it or not. In regards to other upsetting events, such as a funeral for a loved one, many people engage in bits of humor to lighten up a possibly depressing atmosphere and help in the coping process. Based on my experience with “My Favorite Murder”, the hosts are not directly poking fun at the murders or the victims themselves, but at aspects of the story that they go off on tangents about in a comedic way. This makes listening to the horrific details of the murders more bearable.

Pictured from left to right: podcast hosts Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark Photos taken from My Favorite Murder Instagram

njnjnAnother critique of “My Favorite Murder” is Kilgariff and Hardstark’s ignorance of murder cases with people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community as victims.

It is a fact that they have covered murder stories on events like “police brutality and systemic racism and expressed disappointment in the way victims of color and of the LGBTQ community often go unbelieved”.

However, it is also known that a majority of their stories focus on straight, female victims of Caucasian descent, which is explained by critics as being a result of the hosts being two straight, white women. I do not think it is right to give this as an explanation for why they do not include a fair amount of people of color and LGBTQ+ community members in their podcast stories, but it is true that they do not include this diversity as much as they should.

Though Kilgariff and Hardstark do make errors in their show from time to time, they are dedicated to correcting those errors. One time “they received sharp feedback about how they wrongly (and flippantly) diagnosed murderers with mental illnesses and personality disorders— lumping psychopaths and sociopaths into the definitely-a-serial-killer pool even though that’s not always true—”. When receiving these kinds of feedback, the hosts use a segment on their show called ‘Correction Corner’ where they correct themselves on mistakes made in the previous podcasts, which shows they care about giving correct and appropriate information to their listeners.

To quote the words of Hardstark herself, “In the same way people don’t talk about murders a whole lot, people don’t talk about how hard the struggle is to live a happy life”.

What I think she means by this is that people have such great anxieties about things like murder happening to them, and it keeps them from living happy lives. Murder is a very terrifying and unnerving topic to discuss, yet people in society today do seem to be attracted to hearing about such things. What “My Favorite Murder” does is create an atmosphere where they can talk about this difficult topic, and by adding a bit of humor to it, give people an attitude where they can go on living happier lives without worrying as much about such horrific things. We absolutely should be aware of the dangers in the world, but we should not let them keep us from living happy lives. That is the message I get from this podcast.

Just like Kilgariff and Hardstark sign off on their show, “Stay sexy. Don’t get murdered.”

Trump's Damaging Lies Continue to Serve His Image

By Timothy Dillon Contributing Writer

ing. Now, after a tragedy which has claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 Americans, the victims deserve to be addressed by a leader who empathizes with them, commiserates with them, On Sept. 13, United States President Donald Trump or mourns with them. Instead, Trump has abdicated this reposted a tweet in which he claimed that “3,000 did not die” in sponsibility and denies the deaths of thousands while calling Puerto Rico as a result of Hurricanes Irma and Maria which the survivors liars, all because he thinks it makes him look betstruck the Island last year. He claimed that the official death ter. Imagine if President Wilson had denied the sinking of the toll was made up by Democrats to make him look bad. This is Lusitania, if President Roosevelt had igan outright lie. To begin with, the study nored the attack on Pearl Harbor, or if which informed the official death toll President Bush had called 9/11 a hoax was conducted independently by George meant to hurt his approval ratings.

Washington University. Trump’s tweet Not only is this a vile way to act drew criticism and rebuke from Demoin this particular instance, but it sheds crats and Republicans alike, and the inmore light on Trump’s deeply disturbdependent fact checking organization ing outlook on the presidency. Though Politifact rated this claim as “False.” he occupies the office of a public serTrump telling easily disprovvant, Trump does not see it as his reable lies on Twitter has been a constant of sponsibility to serve the public. He is his presidency from the very beginning. a self serving narcissist who only cares According to The Washington Post’s fact about anything to the extent that it afchecker, as of Sept. 4, Trump had perfects him. He sees no benefit to helpsonally made 4,713 false or misleading ing anyone else unless he thinks he can claims since his inauguration, averaging gain something from it. He focused on about eight lies per day, and Politifact Puerto Rico long enough to get a few rates a staggering 69 percent of his pubphotos of himself pretending to help, lic statements to be at least mostly false. and then as far as he was concerned, All of these lies and half truths serve to Puerto Rico was on its own. Now, afundermine public trust in the instituter a year of apathy towards the people tions of American democracy, doing of Puerto Rico, this study poses an inreal long-term harm to this nation. This convenience to him as the nation deals tweet, however, is not just dishonest, but with Hurricane Florence, so Trump deeply disturbing. It sends a message to employed his administration’s signathe American people that Trump cares ture tactic, deny reality at all costs and more about how he thinks he looks than let Fox News, Infowars and Breitbart Pictured: President Donald Trump Creative Commons/Wikimedia Commons and Wikipedia about the lives of American people. sell it to his base. By his words and What happened in Puerto Rico his deeds, Trump has told the people was a tragedy, and there were several response, and many more people could suffer as a result. In of Puerto Rico, and the American people as a whole, that his factors that lead to such a high death toll, including but not fact, recently The New York Times reported that rather than pride is more important than their lives. The next time dilimited to insufficient preparation on the part of the Federal look into ways to improve disaster relief in the future, the De- saster strikes, Americans will not only have to worry about Emergency Management Agency, a lack of resources allocated partment of Homeland Security has transferred nearly 10 mil- surviving the immediate danger, they will have to worry that as compared to responses in Florida and Texas and a misman- lion dollars from FEMA’s budget to Immigration and Customs the president of the United States may ignore their suffering aged federal response that meant power wasn’t restored to Enforcement. because it reflects poorly on him. some parts of the island until nearly a year later. Which of America deserves better than this, but so far the RepubOne of the many unofficial jobs that has been delegated these factors were most significant and who exactly is culpable to the president over the years is consoler-in-chief. In the wake lican-controlled Congress has refused to hold the president are important questions that merit debate, oversight and in- of a tragedy, it falls upon the president to reassure and comfort accountable, so the American people must turn out to vote vestigation. The United States also ought to seriously reevalu- the American people, to unite the nation and to lend moral and hold Congress accountable, or prepare for this to become ate the pseudo-colonial relationship it has with its territories. leadership to the looming task of overcoming and rebuild- the norm.

However, what should be clear to everyone is that there are important lessons that need to be learned so that America can do better next time a hurricane strikes. Acknowledging and learning from these past mistakes is especially important with Hurricane Florence having recently struck the American coastline, and the task of recovery looming before the nation.

Those lessons will go unlearned if the executive branch refuses to acknowledge the very real problems with the federal

The Vine

arts, entertainment, features Editor Katherine Klima katherine.klima@student.fairfield.edu

'Shado wland : A New Adven t u re ' B ewitch e s Audien ce

Photo taken from pilobolus Instagram

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Dance Company 'Pilobolus' Mystifies at the Quick Center

By Molly Lamendola Contributing Writer

There’s a soundtrack for a theater before the curtains are drawn; the quiet murmur of noises that patter around the room in anticipation of the event’s start. On this particular Friday evening at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, the excitement seemed amplified.

Especially once Peter Van Heerden, the executive director of the Quick Center, stood up, silencing the voices, as he stated proudly that this would be the first time “Shadowland 2: The New Adventure” by the dance company Pilobolus would be seen in the United States.

The voices gained a bit of volume back, tittering back and forth with awe at this exciting proposal. But it wasn’t until the lights in the theater ceased, indicating the start of the performance, that we knew how truly special this night would be.

On paper, the plot reads as ridiculous. The pamphlet states that “Shadowland: The New Adventure” is, “A love story about two people and their quixotic quest to save an imaginary bird.” But the show exuded nothing but pure whimsy, a Tim Burton feel you might say, as we watched the artistic directors, Renee Jaworski and Matt Kent, mold together two seemingly different forms of performance: classical lyrical dance numbers and shadow work using new multimedia techniques. Showing us a story that we might have seen before, an evil scientist obsessed with collecting animals is stopped by a couple who just wants to return the creatures to their rightful place, but never seen in a way like this.

The shadow performances are the most impressive part of the show. As you notice quite quickly that they require absolute precision and genius level thinking in regards to the size of an object changing depending on where the person is standing in front of the light, and of course the timing of it all. Pilobolus is able to manipulate this medium perfectly, as in multiple scenes we watch the dancers form monuments with only their limbs and bodies then shift quickly, rolling on the floor to grab props for the next number.

One shadow scene that stood out, encompasses a flashback the evil scientist is having about his

collection of animals. The scene is spooky, eerie, something that would have scared us as children. We watch as robots, with big, goofy heads, looking like cousins to everyone’s favorite Iron Giant, collect creature after creature, including the bird. Destroying a beautiful planet that we were just introduced to in the scene before. The lyrical-heavy, offbeat music adds the dialogue the scene is missing, describing to us that the robots are putting it in a box for science.

Though the shadow performances throughout the show are simply amazing, there are still multiple classically choreographed routines that I would be remiss in not mentioning. In one particular scene, we watch the evil scientist standing behind the screen, supposedly in another room, giving the captured bird some time alone. During this time she’s able to break free of her box and perform a beautiful routine. She spins around and around and, as some background dancers lift her into different positions, the lights from the stage turn on us. The swirling lights hover over the audience and the music crescendos transporting us to feel her sweet release of freedom. But even this number isn’t without multimedia elements. As eventually, screens depicting the evil scientist's hands start spiraling around the bird in different positions, showing us how trapped she must feel.

She’s not trapped for long, as the performance comes to a close with good finally defeating evil. As the couple is able to return the captured bird to her home and defeat the scientist, putting him in his own box. It’s an okay ending, one that was expected by everyone else in the room, but as the shadow-screen reveals a “The End,” and the lights in the theatre reanimated there’s an unsurprising standing ovation.

People cheer and clap and whistle, the performers take a bow and you’re left in actual awe in regards to the performance. It wasn’t that the story was revolutionary, nor that the sets or the costumes looked straight out of a Broadway Production, but it was the talent that stood out. It was the skill that was noticed by the crowd and the whimsical feel the show provided, allowing us to spend just 90 minutes of our evening worrying about a bird getting home to its parPhoto taken from pilobolus Instagram ents. It’s as if we were kids again.

Jaques Schwarz-Bart to Perform at Fairfield

By Mimi Loughlin Contributing Writer If you’ve ever heard the smooth, mellifluous sound of jazz music, then you know how it can make a person feel. A couple of riffs and suddenly it’s as if you’ve been transported to another place, another time and —if you’re listening to Jacques SchwarzBart, a widely acclaimed lyricist and composer who’s played with John Legend — another culture. Jacques Schwarz-Bart created Gwoka Jazz, combining jazz with Haitian voodoo music and, in his latest album “Hazzan,” with Hebrew liturgical music. Jacques Schwarz-Bart will be giving a free concert at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts on Tuesday, Oct. 2 at 7:30 p.m. This concert is the headliner for the Daniel Pearl World Music Days concert, dedicated to Daniel Pearl, a slain Wall Street journalist and talented violinist who believed that music could unite people of all faiths and backgrounds. You can reserve tickets by emailing the Bennett Center for Judaic Studies at bennettcenter@fairfield. edu. I’m glad I had the opportunity to ask Schwarz-Bart a few questions about his music and his family before his upcoming concert.

How would you describe the sound of “Hazzan” ?

“In a nutshell, ‘Hazzan’ is a Jazz creation embracing liturgical Jewish chants, improvisational sequences and infectious rhythms - many of them from the African diaspora.”

What is the music of the African diaspora?

“The kind that I received as a child is Haitian voodoo music. It is characterized by a very sophisticated range of melodies, rhythms and compositions. It has inspired many modern styles, and notably, it is at the essence of the first form of jazz music: Dixieland! That is why I said that my voodoo jazz project reunited the root and its flower!”

When did you decide to intertwine jazz music and voodoo? What is Voodoo music?

“I thought of integrating roots Caribbean music (voodoo, Gwoka) with jazz before becoming a jazz musician, when I was still a child. I started playing the Gwoka drums at four. At age six, I became a jazz aficionado and picked up the guitar. I thought then that those two genres matched naturally, both rhythmically and melodically. I thought that one day, maybe, I could make a musical statement out of those two genres. Voodoo is one of the most ancient African religions. It spread throughout west Africa

before it was conquered by Arabs and then Europeans. Along with black people and black culture, black spirituality was vilified and demonized by both Muslims and Christians. In reality, Voodoo, like many spiritualities, promotes peace, harmony with others and with nature. Like any great religion, Voodoo has inspired an entire culture through poetry, painting, sculpture and of course music. There are many kinds of voodoo music, found both in Africa, but also in the African diaspora (Caribbeans, Americas, Gnaouas from North Africa).”

How did your father, a Holocaust survivor, impact your view of life? How did his narratives about the Holocaust shape your view of religion and the importance of music and storytelling through music?

“As a second generation holocaust survivor, I have trust issues regarding humans, gods and anything else. My father was wounded for life, and never stopped grieving. He felt betrayed by God, and became an atheist at first. But he remained a great mystic... He was fascinated by Jewish mystical books such as the Zoar and the Kabbalah. Many of his characters are great mystics. And I believe that towards the end of his life, he became more of an agnostic, while dreaming about all that the eye can’t see! I myself fully embrace mysticism. I love and apply many aspect of religious teachings from Judaism, Voodoo and Buddhism in my daily life.”

Do you think that after the passing of your father, you began to be more interested in Jewish liturgical music as a way to honor him, and to honor his legacy?

“I have always loved the chants from Shabbat, Hanukkah, Rosh Hashanah, both for their melodies and their meaning.

They convey a sober but overwhelming mystical charge. When my father passed, I felt the need to pay tribute to his life and say my own Kaddish (prayer). And when I thought of prayers, all these great liturgical chants surfaced immediately, and I started the project soon after. I had the privilege to perform one of my arrangements in front of the Foundation for French Judaism. At the end, one very respected Rabbi came to tell me, ‘You played

your horn as if you were praying. You sounded like a Hazzan on the saxophone.’ which in Hebrew, means Cantor. That encouragement led me to finish my work. And I named it ‘Hazzan’…”

Your new album, “Hazzan,” is a “jazz- neo soul- klezmer fusion” album. How would you describe this sound? Will all of your songs at the concert at on Oct. 2 be from Hazzan?

“In ‘Hazzan,’ I selected exclusively liturgical Jewish chants: I opted for the sacred over the profane. In a nutshell, ‘Hazzan’ is a Jazz creation embracing liturgical Jewish chants, improvisational sequences and infectious rhythms - many of them from the African diaspora. And yes: on Oct. 2, the entire performance will be dedicated to the original repertoire from the recording!”

This interview has been edited and condensed. To see the full article, please visit www.fairfieldmirror.com.

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'Through the Bamboo Wall' Captures China's True Beauty

Photo contributed by Dr. Xie

Photo used for the gallery's poster captures the two worlds meeting.

By Katherine Klima Vine Editor Capturing a culture and its people in a realistic, emotional and grounding way can be a challenge and takes loads of time and experience to master. In the photography gallery “Through the Bamboo Wall - A photographic journey from the Chinese South to the West” by Dr. Lei “Tommy” Xie, associate professor of English at Fairfield University, it does just that. Through a series of photographs that span over various places and people, Xie captures a side to China that not many get to see and so it entices all who view it.

Xie teaches digital journalism here at Fairfield University – including the photojournalism and big data storytelling courses.

His multimedia photo essay “Living Foreign” won the featured photography award by the Region 1 Society of Professional Journalists in 2009 and in 2014 he served as a judge for the National Geographic/Fulbright Fellowship. Recently, in 2017, Xie was one of 20 finalists in the Nikonians Photography Award.

On Sept. 20, Xie held a lecture that really dove into his overall experience as a photographer and the journey he took taking the photographs for his gallery. Though this lecture, Xie talked about his background in photography, like how he started out interning at a newspaper when he was living in China and hit a wall when he realized there wasn't much room to expand as a photographer. It’s one of the reasons he came to America. It’s here Xie would learn photography from artists like Phil Greer, Werner Bischof and Alex Webb – all of whom helped him realize that there was not a lot of creativity in his photographs and that there is so much more to photography as a whole.

These photos were grounded by their very authenticity and the way they were able to capture a little piece of everyday life in these Chinese provinces.

Another photograph that captures this sort of real, raw emotion is of some school boys from Dabao elementary as they watch the film “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs.” As they watch this beloved children’s movie, their faces are adorned with nothing but pure curiosity and enchantment. It’s stated how many of these children are not familiar with things like processed treats due to the fact many of them are only used to locally grown food, so a lot of the western foods used in the production of this children’s movie were unlike anything they had ever seen. Through this photograph, viewers can see these children’s genuine reaction to the movie. One little detail I appreciated was the fact the photograph capture a flicker of the movie where the main character’s eyes are just as wide and astonished as the little boys looking back at the film. Whether this was intentional or not, to me, that little part I caught somehow added to the depth and intensity of the photograph.

There is also one photograph that managed to catch my attention the moment I stepped foot within the gallery. It’s one of the first photographs on display and in the caption Xie writes: “Romanticism is powerful in photography. It is so powerful that I started to question photography when I arrived at world-famous sceneries, photographed heavenly by fellow photographers, only to find out those places were actually filled with litter.” The photograph, taken by Qinghai Lake, the largest lake in China, is in an area that has a massive problem with littering. Xie goes on to talk about an interaction he had with two little children there and how they witnessed a mass amount of fish being helped into the lake so they wouldn’t die young. During his talk, Xie mentions how this photograph is one of the many to inspire him to further work on pieces that deal with global warming.

Each photograph in Xie’s gallery depicts a story and the beauty of China. Xie is able to bring a truth to each picture through his originality and skilled photographs. His gallery will be on display until Sept. 28 in the Lukacs Experimental Gallery in Loyola Hall.

Xie’s general goal is to make his work as original as possible.

An example he used was not to find the same generic photograph everyone gets on Google Images. He wants to capture photographs that are real, raw and original.

During his two trips to China, he noticed the sort of artificial appearance the country gives off in a world of modernization. It was then he realized he wanted to capture photographs of a more real side to China. Xie wanted photographs that weren’t post card photos, but photography with originality.

One of his photographs that embodies this idea wholly is the photograph Xie used for the gallery’s poster. The photograph depicts a group of volunteers helping out at Dabao Elementary School. As the volunteers stare off into the distance, behind them is a group of students from the elementary school that are curiously looking at the volunteers. What’s in between them is a large wall made of dark bamboo logs. To Xie, this represents two worlds, suburban and urban, meeting and this overall distinctive separation between the two.

Within Xie’s gallery itself there are various eye catching pieces that really tell a story. In one photograph with the caption, “Peasant's kitchen” it shows the everyday life of workers in Jingbian, Shaanxi Province.

Another photograph with the caption, “Rongwo Monastery, Qinghai Province” shows a monastery, but as Xie took the picture a woman walked into focus and Photo contributed by Dr. Xie she is now apart of the photograph. The woman in this photo, along with the image “Peasant’s kitchen,” give Photo of school boys watching 'Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs'. off the reality and normality of everyday life in China.

The Mirror Abroad: Maeve's Marvelous Adventures

By Maeve Nowak Abroad Columnist

There is something beautiful, standing at the edge of Europe. The Atlantic Ocean goes on forever and you can see clouds rolling in miles off the coast. There is something beautiful, when you’re looking down and your heart is jumping in your chest. Fear turns to exhilaration — still, your steps remain precise. There is something beautiful, in 702 feet of layered rock holding you up from the unforgiving waves that beat down on the jagged stones below. The water crashes, white tips giving way to a mist that makes the sunlight look 50 shades of blue. Beautiful, however true, remains too weak a word to describe Ireland’s Cliffs of Moher.

It was one of the few sunny days in Ireland on Sunday, Sept. 16, when the tour group and I ventured to County Clare to explore the Cliffs. There are two paths when you arrive, the right being safer, guarded by railings; the left is left open and unrestricted, allowing you to freely dangle your feet off the edge if you dare. I chose to be fearless.

The path was like a roller-coaster, thrilling and full of ups and downs. The Cliffs are comprised of layers of multicolored rock, like a perfect baklava. The view is indescribable, I could genuinely stay there for hours and be in a state of perfect bliss. My friends and I filled our cell phones with pictures of ourselves and our surroundings, unable to get enough of it. Walking alongside the Cliffs, each step is calculated and you become aware of every person around you. One misstep is all it would take to change the day’s narrative. Still, we proceeded with excitement and caution.

All in all, it was an amazing trip and I cannot wait to return. Stay tuned for the next article, I’ll be exploring Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany!

Photo contributed by Maeve Nowak

The Cliffs of Moher in Ireland.

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Stylish Stag for September

By Sabrina Musto Fashion Columnist I always love writing about the style of our Stags, because I know how objective style can be and love to get fresh voices to express their own styles as well. The following first-year has been chosen to be the Stylish Stag of September because as soon as I spotted her outfit I thought it was super trendy, and she was graciously willing to share her personal style with The Mirror!

Name: Casey McCombs

Drawing contributed by Danielle Fierro

Inkwell Spotlight 6 AM

By Katherine Klima Marketing Director at the Inkwell Vine Editor

Birds chirping, Mind whirling.

Early morning dew.

Last night, What a blur.

Wait a minute…

Why am I up?

Graduation Year: 2022 Major: Business Marketing How did you decide on this outfit today, and how do you generally decide on an outfit?

“It usually just depends on my mood.

Sometimes I check the weather and then go through my closet, but I usually start with an item of clothing and then build a look from there.”

What is your favorite store to shop in and why?

“Forever 21. I know I can find unique, inexpensive items and then style them the way I am feeling that day or week. You definitely have to be ready to look through the pieces when you shop there because there are tons of different types of clothing.”

Musto/The Mirror

McCombs '22 pictured above in her outfit.

What is your favorite accessory and why?

“The cliché favorite accessory answer is my smile (wink).

But honestly, my favorite accessory is probably my 90s inspired sunglasses, I love them so much and I can wear them with any outfit.”

Describe your fashion aesthetic in two words.

“Trendy Casual” Tell me a trend you’re happy is back in style and why?

“High waisted pants. Anyone can wear a good high waisted boyfriend jean and buying a pair secures a closet necessity.”

What is your favorite season to dress for and why?

“My favorite season to dress for is definitely autumn. You can layer some of your summer clothes under cardigans and get all cozy.”

Lastly, do you have a style icon and why?

“Yes, my style icon is Kendall Jenner. She is a tall glass of water and she knows how to shake up her looks while remaining true to her original sense of style.”

SugarBearHair Gummies Stregthen and Improve Hair

By Sabrina Trueheart Copy Edtior

healthier as well.

I started taking SugarBearHair vitamins one month ago, and have slowly begun to see an improveOver the summer, I made a mistake most people ment in the strength and length of my hair. I also love make at least once in their lives; getting my hair cut too waking up in the morning and popping two delicious short for my liking. To make matters worse, I got this gummy bears into my mouth; it has served as a posihaircut just two weeks before I was supposed to move tive start to my day. SugarBearHair gummies are a back to campus. I spent the days after trying several difburst of berry flavor and are fun to eat. Each conferent methods to grow my hair, including oil treatments tainer comes with 60 gummies (two each day, oneand even hanging my head upside down for 10 minutes month supply). If you purchase a three-month supeach day. However, a few days in, I remembered the ply from the SugarBearHair website, a free hairbrush many other routes I can take to grow my hair faster. Reis included. If you purchase a six-month supply, a fraining from straighteners and blow dryers to style my hairbrush and a cute cosmetic bag in the shape of a hair contributes to hair growth, as well as using sulfateblue bear is included. The only downside to buying free shampoo and conditioner. I also remembered the these vitamins is the price. I bought a one-month wonderful supplement that is biotin tablets. supply from Amazon, which cost a total of $32. A Biotin is a B vitamin proven to grow hair and nails three-month supply bought from the SugarBearHair faster and stronger. I took biotin vitamins when I was a website costs $79.99, and a six-month supply costs first-year and wanted to grow out my hair after dyeing it $159.99. But, do the pros outweigh the one con? Aba horrible color. Taking regular biotin supplements imsolutely. proved my hair growth and strength, but not by much.

SugarBearHair vitamins are taking over social When I searched “biotin” in the Amazon search engine, media and my cabinet. Their natural, cruelty-free inthe first vitamins to pop up were called SugarBearHair. gredients initially caught my attention, but the results I had heard of these before, and even followed the comsealed the deal, both for me and for the thousands of pany on Instagram for a while because their posts were Photo taken from sugarbearhair Instagram people who have left online reviews. Nothing warms so colorful and relatable. It wasn’t until I bought these my heart more than seeing before and after pictures. vitamins and started to see a noticeable difference in my Sugarbearhair gummy vitamins are natural and have cruelty-free ingredi- I wish I had done the same, but I was much too dishair that I discovered the reason why celebrities like the ents traught about the length of my hair one month ago Kardashians love these blue gummies so much. to take pictures. My hair grew about an inch since I’m wary of taking any kind of vitamin because some of free and vegetarian. I had also heard nothing but good reviews I cut it, when hair normally grows an average of a quarter to them contain whey, soy or gelatin. Whey can cause digestion of these vitamins. I looked everywhere (Facebook, Instagram, half inch per month. Of course, other factors contribute in hair issues, while soy is proven to provoke hormonal imbalances in the SugarBearHair website and articles online) and women growth such as using minimal heat to style hair and using sulmen and women. These are especially true for gummy candy, and men were raving about these gummy bears. The combina- fate-free shampoo. But, I can definitely say that these gummy since gelatin is made from animal by-products and other un- tion of biotin, folic acid and vitamin C promotes healthy, shiny bears improved my hair so I can finally feel comfortable with wholesome ingredients. However, SugarBearHair’s website en- hair. The gummies also contain several other vitamins, such as it again. Sorry mom, I am talking about those hair vitamins sured that their gummies are hormone-free, soy-free, gluten- vitamins D and B-12 (which I need more of) that make me feel again.

The Vine

THE MIRROR | Week of September 26, 2018

Page 11

'A Simple Favor' is Familiar, But Effective

By Tyler Zikias Contributing Writer “A Simple Favor” (dir. Paul Feig) stars Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively and Henry Golding, and follows the story of single mother, Stephanie (Kendrick), who begins to unravel the disappearance of her best friend, Emily (Lively). From there, Stephanie attempts to follow a trail of breadcrumbs to solve her friend’s departure, while mothering both her son and Emily’s son with the help of Emily’s husband, Sean (Golding). Feig is a name most will associate with comedy. He directed “Bridesmaids,” “Spy” and 15 episodes of “The Office.” Here, Feig tackles a dramatic script that takes dark turns through a majority of its 117 minute runtime, without losing his blend of comedy. Feig’s directorial style and the quippy line delivery from his leads make this film a very enjoyable watch, even if it at times feels like a “Gone Girl” clone.

This film opens very strong with Stephanie grieving over Emily’s disappearance on her vlog for moms. From here, it flashes back to five days before Emily’s disappearance and explores what her and Stephanie's friendship was truly like. Kendrick is great here, despite being casted as a character with a similar personality to others she has played. Stephanie’s bubbly attitude and overall positivity plays well to her obsession and love of being a mother, seen through her vlogs. However, as she finds out more of Emily’s disappearance, Stephanie’s change in character is abrupt, which can be jarring to some viewers. While this is a realistic turn for a character who is currently under a tremendous amount of stress, it never seems earned in this instance. There is never a specific moment where Stephanie makes a choice that clearly changes her character, instead the change occurs from out of nowhere. Regardless, Kendrick is a joy to watch.

Despite only being in the film for a comparatively short amount of time, Lively steals the entire show. She plays a mother who is so distraught with her own work and failing marriage that she takes it upon herself to take Stephanie under her wing and show her that letting loose and having a drink is a necessity. Lively is ruthless in this role, never taking no for an answer and absolutely never doing what someone else wants her to do. She dominates the frame with a carefree attitude and oftentimes inflicts a great amount of fear into the audience.

Kendrick and Lively have great chemistry throughout “A Simple Favor” as they both ease into their new found friendship. At the start, it’s rocky between the two because Stephanie is only in the same room as Emily because their kids wanted to have a playdate.

Emily imposes her will onto Stephanie, breaking down her walls and forcing both of them to open up to each other and get closer

as friends. Kendrick plays the very caring and motherly role, while Lively plays the other side of the coin, a carefree and self indulgent woman. Their dynamic is incredibly intriguing and drives the first act of the film forward as the two women reveal secrets which play a huge role later in the film. These secrets entice the viewer, making them feel like they are a part of the bond between the two.

Upon Emily’s disappearance, Stephanie is expected to co-par-

ent their children with the help of Emily’s husband, Sean (Golding).

These two also have great chemistry, making most of the dour and uncomfortable scenes feel real.

Feig does a great job of balancing tone throughout each scene.

He always lets the viewer know what is at stake while adding his trademark quippy comedy to bring some levity to more intense situations. Although it is a mystery-drama, the film is very funny, as are the actors. Feig leaves his stylistic stamp on the film, making it fun to watch, while also handling dramatic subject matter. He structures the film incredibly well, especially as a director who has yet to direct

a film as heavy handed and dramatic as this one. The first half hour flies by, as information spills off the screen in a natural way. The next 45 minutes or so are intriguing due to the confusion over Stephanie and Sean not knowing what to do next. There aren’t any major revelations until the two figure out what to do regarding Emily’s disappearance and their children. However, the third act is where the film starts to reveal its flaws and, in turn, lose its footing.

Stephanie doesn’t leave the town to investigate Emily’s disappearance until around the 80 minute mark, and that feels a bit too late. With the second act running smoothly until this point, the sudden surge of investigation seems jarring, making the last 40 to 50 minutes feel slow in comparison. After a trip out of state, Stephanie continues her investigation for another 20 minutes of the film, but it never feels as interesting again because I, for one, was constantly trying to process all of the new information. Most of these new ideas could have easily been presented or hinted at throughout the second act, but when it’s an entirely brand new story being presented, it feels out of place. It also begins to drag because the new information comes out of left-field and isn’t nearly as interesting as the developments between Kendrick and Golding’s characters.This is where I draw in my comparison with “Gone Girl” (dir. David Fincher). Aside from the stories of these two films being nearly identical, “Gone Girl” handles the telling of new information a lot better. In that film, a certain reveal takes place around the 60 minute mark. When this occurs, the new information is tied in with the information that the director revealed in the previous 60 minutes of screentime. The conveyance of information feels rewarding as the viewer is able to pieces it together on their own. When twists and turns occur, it is smart as a director to let it sit with the viewer for a while before moving on to fresh information. “A Simple Favor”’s third act continuously throws new information at the viewers until the film resolves in a tense, but at times tonely, inconsistent way.

Overall, I would definitely recommend checking out “A Simple Favor.” The three leads are fantastic and share terrific moments together on screen. Paul Feig’s direction includes a lot of great scenes that build to a revealing climax, while adding humor to calm some of the more tense situations. However, the film’s bridge between second and third act is non existent, making the last 30 to 40 minutes drag, and the “Gone Girl” comparisons are inevitable so, if you have seen “Gone Girl,” you’ll know what to expect. I think Paul Feig did a great job bringing his brand of filmmaking to a genre that is uncharted in terms of his filmography. If you’re a fan of any of Feig’s prior work, any of the leads, or are just in the mood for an interesting mystery movie, definitely check this one out.

Grade: B

6lack Releases New Album 'East Altanta Love Letter'

By Andrew Murphy Contributing Writer

In today’s modern age of music, the line between genres seems to be incessantly disintegrating. On Friday, Sept. 14, hip-hop singer 6lack (pronounced black) released his new album “East Atlanta Love Letter.” 6lack’s sophomore album adds to his catalog of melancholy, low-pitch, unreserved rhythm and blues. Many artists before 6lack have intertwined singing with hip-hop beats, but 6lack has crafted a variation of this subgenre which he can rightfully dub his own. “East Atlanta Love Letter” fuses the hip-hop influence of East Atlanta with the passion, eloquence and vulnerability of a love letter to create 47 minutes of stellar music.

6lack’s “East Atlanta Love Letter” centers around the complicated realities of relationships and romance, but 6lack croons about more than just these themes. He transmits unfiltered honesty from the mind of a troubled lover and his monotone voice lacks zeal, creating the feeling of a heartfelt conversation.

From the first lines of the album where he proclaims “hope my mistakes don’t make me less of a man,” 6lack establishes this theme of confessional introspection. This melancholy mood of repentance makes songs like the delicate ballad “Sorry” irresistible.

The hip-hop artist’s song “Nonchalant” possesses this same mellow tone, yet rather than crooning about romance, 6lack boastfully opens up about his work ethic and skill. The song’s freestyle vibe reveals the hip-hop influence of 6lack’s East Atlanta roots. His selection of artists to feature in his album also reveals this hip-hop background, for the big name artists which contributed to this album are all prominent stars of modern hip-hop. These features sound effortless as these artists merely adapt their specialties to 6lack’s distinct sound and vibe. “Pretty Little Fears” is an excellent example of this chemistry as 6lack sounds exactly where he belongs rapping alongside hip-hop juggernaut J. Cole.

The remarkable production on this album accompanies the various shades of 6lack which appear through the listeners speakers. The variety of drums, strings and synthesizers which construct 6lack’s background allow him to flawlessly transition from gentle ballads to aggressive soliloquies and his use of skits helps to further create the ambience of a hip-hop album. While he does

not features any female vocalists, the appearances of female characters in these skits help establish the album’s love letter theme.

I love this album. I have already listened to it numerous times from start to finish without any skips. Every song transitions so well into the next one. Even though the album is a hodgepodge of 6lack’s unique R&B, the vulnerable piano ballad “Disconnect” sounds just as at home as the radio friendly track “Seasons.” In his song “Loaded Gun,” 6lack accurately explains the album’s cover art: “eastside on my back, daughter on my back.” His success as a hybrid R&B rapper does not erase the fact that 6lack, an ordinary man from East Atlanta, is still trying to balance life as a new father with the demands of his work life.

THE MIRROR | Week of September 26, 2018

Coffee Break

Page 12

Coffee Break Editor: Julia Crews julia.crews@student.fairfield.edu

HOROSCOPES FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 26TH Disclaimer: The Coffee Break Team knows little to nothing about astrology and has not been certified by the Society of Astrologists to provide horoscopes.

Aries

If you’re thinking about taking a chance with those pants, don’t.

Taurus

Taurus, your week is looking considerably good if you do take a chance with those pants. It will start a conversation that will blossom into a beautiful friendship. The stars also say that this friendship will end three years from now in a catastrophic event involving an ill-fated game of Spoons, but don’t worry about that right now.

Libra

It’s Libra season and we all can tell. Tone it down a little, will you, Libras? Just give the other signs a chance, for once. Pres Ball is coming up and the spotlight can’t only be on you.

Scorpio

Scorpio! For once your lively, outgoing, aggressive Scorpio mentality will do you some good at Pres Ball, at which everyone will adore you. Except not as much as they’ll adore the Libras. Does that ignite your jealous Scorpio spirit or what?

Sagittarius

Gemini

You’re solidly in the middle of the crowd this week, Sagittarius.

Your week won’t be a disappointment like the Leos’, but it won’t be amazing like the Libras’. Look forward to seven days of mediocrity and boredom. You go, Sagittarius!

Cancer

Your controlling, neat-freak traits will really bite you in the butt this week if you’re not careful.

That thing that you’ve been thinking about? You know, That Thing? It will happen this week. If it’s good, then yay! If it’s bad, remember that Cancers are always willing to give you a hug because they’re just like that.

Cancer, it’s your lucky week! You’ll meet your soulmate! Yes, that’s right. Every single Cancer on campus and on earth will meet their soulmate this week. Astrology is weird sometimes.

Leo

Leo, you won’t be meeting your soulmate anytime soon. You almost met them last week, but you walked right by them, so now it’ll be another 17 years. Hang in there.

Virgo

Virgo? More like Vir-know! Your academic achievements will be on fire this week! You’ll learn and grow enough to make the other signs jealous. However, the week after this one, your academics will be on fire in that your grades will be up in flames.

The universe must maintain balance, I guess.

Capricorn Aquarius

If you could be a little less Aquarius this week, you’ll have a good one. But if you keep it up with that airy, flighty attitude, your week is bound to be about as bad as all of your previous ones have been. It’s a tough life, Aquarius. It’s not you; it’s your personality.

Pisces

Oh, Pisces. Keep being you and your week will be just as average as you are.

THE STAG STATUE FINDS LOVE? “It was almost nine o’clock when I saw them,” said Danielle Sondgeroth ‘22, a first-year who was walking back from Campus Ministry Thursday night when she came upon a scene she wouldn’t soon forget. “A doe was walking up to the statue. So cute!” Cute, indeed.

Could the Stag have found a lover? “They definitely seemed like they were at least good friends,” said Sondgeroth. “I’m not one to gossip, but there could be more there.”

When confronted with the question of whether or not he is in a relationship, the Stag Statue remained suspiciously quiet. We will keep you updated as this story develops.

Creative Commons/Wikimedia Commons

THE MIRROR | Week of September 26, 2018

Sports

SPORTS

This Week in Sports:

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

Page 13

Weekend Update

In Case You Missed It: Wednesday, September 19th -Women's Tennis defeats Sacred Heart, 5-2 Saturday, September 22nd -Women's Soccer loses to Quinnipiac, 3-0 -Volleyball defeats Manhattan, 3-0 -Men's Soccer loses to St. Joseph's, 2-0 Sunday, September 23rd -Volleyball defeats Iona, 3-1

Photo Contributed By Sports Information Desk

At the Quinnipiac University Invitational this past weekend (Sept. 21- 23) the Fairfield Men’s Tennis team put on a excellent performance.

Sophomore Tyler Shibles won his opening round A Singles Competition (6-4, 6-1) against Hank Hill of the University of Connecticut. Then Shibles defeated Noah Lilienthal of Wesleyan University (6-1, 1-6, 12-10) in the round of 16 before eventually falling in the quarterfinals. Firstyear Lewis Edwards secured a win in the first round of A Singles Competition when he defeated Finn Kemper of Fordham University (6-4, 6-1).

First-year Allan Magid added a win in a B Singles Competition consolation match when he defeated Jofre Segarra of Fordham (8-5). Edwards and Shibles then teamed up in A Doubles Competition to take down Alex Makatsaria and Lutwin de Macar of Fordham (6-4). Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) play begins for the Stags Oct. 9 at 2 p.m. when they travel to Lawrenceville, N.J. to take on Rider University.

Upcoming This Week: Wednesday, September 26th -Women's Soccer vs. Rider, 7 p.m.

-Volleyball at Marist, 7 p.m.

Friday, September 28th -Field Hockey vs. Sacred Heart, 7 p.m.

Saturday, September 29th

Photo Contributed by Sports Information Desk

On Sunday Sept. 23, 2018 the Fairfield University Women’s Volleyball team won its fourth consecutive Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) game 3-1 over Iona College. The Stags won its first set 26-24, second set 25-22 and final set 25-22. Junior Mayda Garcia lead all players with 21 kills and a .254 hitting percentage. She also recorded 13 digs and three block assists. Junior Sonja Radulovic ended the game with 15 kills, three digs and a pair of service aces. Senior Kaitlyn Fisher picked up six kills and two blocks while Luci Albertson ‘21 had five kills and four blocks of her own. Fairfield plays Marist College on the road tonight at 7 p.m. before a home match with Quinnipiac University on Sunday Sept. 29 at 7 p.m.

-Swimming at Fairfield Invitational, 10 a.m.

- Men's Soccer vs. Niagara, 3 p.m.

- Volleyball vs. Quinnipiac, 7 p.m.

Sunday, September 30th - Field Hockey vs. Boston College, 1 p.m.

In this week's issue...

- Playoff Race Heats Up As Top Dogs Clinch Playoff Berths (Page 14)

- Jackie Kane Leads Stags to Historical Start (Page15)

- Stags Fall to Nutmeg State Rival Quinnipiac (Page 15)

- Stags Fall to Saint Joseph's 2-0 Under the Lights (Page 16)

Sports

Page 14

THE MIRROR | Week of September 26, 2018

Playoff Race Heats Up As Top Dogs Clinch Playoff Berths

Photos taken from mlb Instagram Ender Inciarte from the Atlanta Braves (left) and Mookie Betts from the Boston Red Sox (right) lead their squads into October as Boston and Atlanta both respectively clinched their division and earned berths in the League Division Series.

By Julia Lanzillotta Contributing Writer The MLB postseason quickly approaches, leaving baseball fans to watch eagerly as the number of regular season games dwindle. Boston Red Sox fans are relieved as their team has already secured a playoff spot with an astounding 106 wins in the regular season.

They lead the American League East division in wins, but have not yet cemented their place at the top.

The Red Sox are trailed by the New York Yankees, who are currently nine and a half games behind. The superior New York baseball club has a solid .615 winning percentage, but the probability of them catching up to their Boston rivals is slim.

The Yankees will represent the American League with a home field advantage in the Wildcard game on Wednesday, Oct. 3 against the Oakland Athletics.

The winner of this single game will move on to play the one seed in the division series, while the loser will end their journey in the World Series early. The Cleveland Indians have made waves in the American League as well, clinching their spot at the top of the AL Central division and in the playoffs.

The Houston Astros are 7-3 for their last 10 games and have registered 99 wins, matchless by anyone else in the AL West. The Red Sox, Cleveland Indians and Houston Astros are the prospective teams to represent the American League in a five-game series.

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

Dan Montgomery Co-Sports Editor

Your 2018-2019 4x5 Columnists:

Dan Montgomery, Chris LaZazzera, Patrick Getz and Cara Lee

Thoughts about NBA media day??

Eminem vs. MGK battle, who came away as the winner?

Tiger Woods wins the Tour Championship, is he officially back?

The Presidential Ball is this Friday night, are you going?

Who is your personal favorite to win the Heisman thus far?

Hot take: Broolyn Nets will make the playoffs this year.

Killshot was incredible but respect to MGK for coming at the king.

He has never left...the man is made to hoist trophy's and wear red on Sundays.

Absolutely!! Gert's dance moves are moving from the Grape to an entire school audience on Friday!

Will Grier if he can stay off the steroids for a month or two.

MGK got pummeled. My pal Danny ^ can't get enough of Eminem's "Killshot".

Tiger is officially back! Another amazing accomplishment by the GOAT. Biiiig O'Sully and I didn't take our eyes off the TV for a reason. It's been more than 5 years since a Tiger victory folks!!!!

100% going to my last Prez Ball.

Can't wait to see Brooke Harney showcase those dance moves she's been perfecting all summer. Hope to see Gert running the Mr. Softee Ice Cream truck also :)

Kyler Murray from Oklahoma.

The kid is a dual-threat QB who can take it to the house on any given play.

Seeing LeBron in a Lakers jersey seems oddly fitting...

Marshall took it home without a doubt!

He's Back!!!! Gonna cop a Bartsool Tiger shirt...

Gonna get the most out of my last Prez ball, 100% going no chance I would miss it

Tua Tagovailoa is taking it home without a doubt! He's been slicing and dicing defenses and he's got a cannon for an arm! Watch out for 'Bama.

Was too distracted watching all

Ummmm.... Well, I missed something. What happened?

Let's see if he keeps it up, then I'll make a call.

My guy Jason Tatum had some ugly yellow Nike's on his feet.

Chris LaZazzera Stick to the hometown Celtics Assistant Sports green on your feet boiiiii!

Editor

Patrick Getz Co-Sports Editor

The National League’s results are far more dependent on the few games left in the regular season than the American League’s are, as their competition is so close.

The Milwaukee Brewers and St. Louis Cardinals are on the right track to compete against each other at the National League’s Wild Card game on Tuesday, Oct. 3. Milwaukee has a three game lead from the Cardinals.

However, since the Rockies are only 1.5 games behind the Cardinals, there is a tight three way race between the teams, as only two will have the opportunity to compete in the Wild Card.

The Atlanta Braves have clinched the NL East division, tallying 730 runs scored for the 2017-18 season. The Chicago Cubs lead the NL Central division, but still have six games to prove that they are a worthy playoff team.

Finally, the Los Angeles Dodgers currently have a run differential of +176, which is higher than any other franchise in the National League, representing the NL West well.

This October, the American League Champion Team and the National League Champion Team will go head to head for the first world series game on Oct. 23.

The first to win four games of the seven will hoist the Commissioner’s Trophy in victory, representing their city as the best in Major League Baseball.

the coverage for the new "FanCara Lee Executive Editor tastic Beasts" trailer. J.K. Rowling was in New York city and I MISSED HER!

Definitely! Last Prez Ball- can't miss it. Only issue? Two days away and still no dress... In desperate need for a Fairy Godmother!

Ed Oliver., University of Houston. As a former defensive player (albiet for Soccer), I'm all for defense being represented! If he gets the Heisman it'll be the first time a primarily defensive player gets it in over two decades!

THE MIRROR | Week of September 26, 2018

Sports

Page 15

Jackie Kane Leads Stags to Historical Start

By Patrick Getz Co-Sports Editor Q: Entering your 23rd season, have you seen as special a team as this one in 2018?

A: With all the new people on this team, this team is truly outstanding. Having 11 newcomers and 11 returning players is amazing since they were able to gel so quickly. I think that is a result of the returning players making a huge commitment over the summer, coming back in shape. The seniors are really leading the charge.

Q: What have you liked the most during this 8-1 start to the season?

A: Winning… I like that the seniors were dissatisfied with the loss against Drexel and they did not want to feel like that again. They immediately came to the coaches, asking how to improve themselves. They had an immediate positive reaction from the negative. That was my favorite part about it.

Q: How do you continue this great stretch, such as maintaining focus on repeating as MAAC champions?

A: We’re just very specific of what our offensive and defensive principles are. So we have to maintain those principles and keep developing new ones. And also we have to maintain the depth in our backfield since we are scoring goals and denying them as well.

Q: What can you and/or your team captains do so this team does not lose their focus throughout the season?

A: We do our best to treat every game like it is a championship game.

Q: What have you seen with this team that you have not seen in past teams?

Contributed by Sports Information Desk

A: The ability of newcomers to come in and take on such difficult roles with confidence. So we have 11 newcomers, and we only have three returning starters. We have a lot of players who are starting for the very first time coming to play with such confidence, being able to correct their mistakes on the fly. It’s just a show of their character and their strength since they listen to the seniors leaders of this team.

Jackie Kane, in her 23rd season at the helm, has led the Stags to eight wins in their first nine games. The defending MAAC Champions look for their seventh straight victory when they face off against cross-town rival Sacred Heart on Friday, Sept.28.

Notable Wins vs.

Stags Fall to Nutmeg State Rival Quinnipiac

Photo Contributed by Sports Inforamtion Desk Forward Liz Dumas (left) and Amy Akerley (right) fought hard on Saturday where Fairfield registered nine shots, two of which were on goal as Fairfield dropped to 5-4-1 as they endure in MAAC action for the rest of the season.

By Emma Unterkoefler Contributing Writer On Sept. 22, the Fairfield University Women’s Soccer team traveled to Hamden, Connecticut to face Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) rival Quinnipiac University.

Both teams were in search of a first win in the beginning stages of conference play. Quinnipiac triumphed in this pursuit by winning 3-0. This result moves Fairfield’s record to 5-3-1(overall) and 0-1-1 (MAAC).

Fairfield’s Julia Kleczkowski ‘20 opened up the shooting for both sides with an attempt in the third minute of play, but her shot was off-target. The fast tempo of play lasted for about 25 minutes with a total of four shots, none of which resulted in a goal.

In minute 31, the momentum shifted as Quinnipiac scored their first goal. Quinnipiac followed up with a second tally in the next 10 minutes and once more after halftime in minute 51 to seal the win.

Fairfield managed only nine shots throughout the match compared to Quinnipiac’s 12 shots. For the season, Fairfield has averaged 16.3 shots per game so the Stags struggled to get passed Quinnipiac’s defense to have more opportunities on goal. Moving forward, Fairfield will hope to convert more shots into goals. The Stags rookie goalkeeper, Aytana Muschajew ‘22 picked up three saves on the day.

Next up is a midweek matchup against Rider, which is scheduled to be played at home on Lessing Field at 7 p.m. Let’s show up to support our Stags as they continue fighting for a win in the MAAC.

@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports Week of September 26, 2018

fairfieldmirror.com

SPORTS 16

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

Stags Fall to Saint Joseph's 2-0 Under the Lights

Contributed By Sports Information Desk

Midfielder Matt McGlinchey recorded one shot as Fairfield had 11 shots, three of which were on goal, and also three corner kicks but both teams had 15 fouls in Saturday night's contest at Lessing Field.

By Michael Hoffman

Contributing Writer

There was a packed house at Lessing Field during the much anticipated Saturday, Sept. 22 night matchup against the Atlantic Ten’s St. Joseph Hawks. The Fairfield Men’s Soccer team fell 2-0.

The Stags outshot the Hawks in both halves, resulting in a 11-4 advantage after they fell behind at the end of the first half with a goal from Hati’s own Frantz Pierrot ‘22. After the first half ended, the Stags really racked up the pressure in the second, peppering St. Joseph’s goaltender Joseph Boehm ‘22 with seven shots resulting in three saves to receive a shutout for the Hawks.

Fairfield forward Johnathan Felipe ‘22 lead the Stags with three shots, including one on goal, but also receiving a yellow card at around minute 77. St. Joe’s Alvin Dahn ‘21 received a coinciding yellow at around the same minute mark, but then answered within the next minute, putting another St. Joseph goal past Fairfield goalkeeper Gordon Botterill ‘21.

Numerous players registered shots on goal for the Stags in the game including Fernando Robayo ‘21, Johnathan Filipe ‘22 and Diallo Simon-Ponte ‘20. This matchup with St. Joseph’s ends Fairfield’s non-conference schedule, leaving them at 3-4, with

wins over the Yale University Bulldogs, who were ninth ranked at the time of the contest, the University of North Carolina Wilmington Seahawks and the United States Military Academy at West Point Black Knights.

Fairfield comes into conference play ranked fourth in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference with a 3-4 record, trailing the 3-4-1 Saint Peter’s Peacocks, the 4-2-1 Iona Gaels, and the 7-1 Manhattan Jaspers.

The Stags will continue to lead on Spanish Midfielder Diego Casielles, ‘19, who leads the team in scoring with four goals, and supersub Jack Weiss, ‘22, who while not starting a single game, is second on the team in goals with two.

The Stags kick off their conference schedule Saturday, Sept. 29 at 3:00 p.m. at Lessing Field on Town of Fairfield appreciation day against the Niagara University Purple Eagles.

The defending Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference champion Stags have a long road ahead of them, with the whole conference coming for their title, but they seem up to the challenge as the road to the MAAC title runs through Fairfield University.

Claire Monahan/The Mirror

Starting midfielder Santiago Gonzalez (left center) registered one of Fairfield's 11 shiots as he passes to defenseman Kheireddi Kourdassi (left). Fairfield attackers (right) are attempting to score againt the Saint Joseph's defense and goalkeeper.