Fairfield Mirror 9/30/2015

Global Citizen Festival

Plus is Equal Opinion Lane Bryant challenges female body image.

Rugby Sports

The Red Ruggers suffered a 72-0 shutout loss to UMass.

Vine

Global Citizen Festival takes over Central Park.

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THE MIRROR Independent student newspaper

Week of September 30, 2015

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Vol. 41 Iss. 5

Employment opportunities abound at Career Fair Contributed by FUSA Hundreds of students attended last year’s Presidential Ball at Bellarmine Hall.

Students hit the dance floor this Friday

By Katherine Grosso Contributing Writer

In keeping with the Fairfield tradition of 12 years now, the preparation for the 2015 Presidential Ball has begun. The Hollywood-themed event will take place on Friday, Oct. 2 on the Bellarmine Lawn, where students can expect a night of great music, photo opportunities with Father von Arx, S.J. and Lucas the Stag, finger foods and memories made with friends.

The theme for this year, Hollywood Walk of Fame, which was chosen to promote elegance and class, is concurrent with the event’s location. The Fairfield University Student Association’s Programming Board hopes that the theme, coupled with the scenic Bellarmine mansion, will encourage students to get excited about dressing up and attending the dance with their friends.

This year, FUSA Program Coordinator Colleen Wilson has piloted a new system for purchasing tickets. As opposed to tickets being sold at the Barone Campus Center Information Desk as in years prior, they are currently on sale online for $20.

In the comfort of their dorm rooms, students can

login to OrgSync and follow the link to purchase tickets for themselves and guests. Tickets were on sale via OrgSync exclusively until Sept. 27; after this time, students must purchase them at the FUSA office during select times.

This streamlined approach to sales gives students who live as far as the Townhouses and on and around Fairfield Beach more incentive to attend the event. When asked, some admit the distance may have thwarted them from buying a ticket. “Coming from the Townhouses, I think it’s much easier and I’m less likely to put it off,” said Matthew Hofmann ‘17. Director of Traditional Events Patricia Masi ‘17 said that the switch to ticket sales online has been easier: “Doing the ticket sales online was a new process for us but so far it’s worked out well. We were able to keep track of everything much better.”

Juniors are not the only class affected by the new Prez Ball changes. “This year we are also engaging the senior class by providing shuttles from the beach to campus for the event,” Wilson said. The university is supplying a shuttle service to and from READ

FUSA ON PAGE 2

By Britta Gunneson Assistant News Editor

By Meaghan Kirby Staff Writer For those entering their senior year, the pressures of finding a job post-graduation is at the forefront of their minds; for underclassmen, those pressures still exist, but are not yet magnified, as they begin to network with those who could be their potential future employer. To cater to both of these groups, the Career Planning Center will hold their Annual Fall Career & Internship Fair from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Alumni Hall.

“The purpose of the fair is to provide students the opportunity to have face-toface conversations with representatives of organizations who are interested in hiring from Fairfield. It is a chance to network with and begin identifying companies that look appealing for future employment or internship prospects,” said Cathleen Borgman, director of the CPC. Senior Verna Michaud has attended every fall career fair since her freshman year.

“The career fair is a great opportunity for students of all majors to meet with a variety of companies to find opportunities for leadership programs, internships and careers,” Michaud said.

An accounting major, Michaud was able to meet with top accounting firms at

the fair. “As a first-year, I went to the career fair to see what it was all about and ended up meeting with recruiters from the Big Four firms. This was my first exposure to them and was what led to my eventual full-time job offer,” she said.

Some students feel worried about the fair’s offerings in non-business fields.

“I hope it will be helpful since it’s my last year, but I expect for there to be little for those majoring in the sciences like psychology and biology. It’s difficult because some companies don’t seek them,” said Val Aguillon ‘16, a psychology major.

Senior Myles Golymbieski-Rey, a math major, agreed, saying “a lot of financial companies use applied math, so I feel like I can still be competitive against business majors; but people who have majors that are less directly connected to that will probably be at some kind of disadvantage.”

“I don’t think that communication majors will have a disadvantage at the career fair. Businesses need marketing departments, and communication and marketing go hand-in-hand. I think there will be a lot of opportunities. But I think that other majors in the College of Arts and Sciences get gypped,” said Tim Leach ‘16, a communication major.

Over 90 companies will be at the Career & Internship Fair, including Big Four accounting firms, the Camuto Group, READ

CAREER ON PAGE 4

Balance scooters invade campus

By Meaghan Kirby Staff Writer As October rapidly approaches, signaling the onset of midterms, this is the time when students often feel the most stress, making it necessary for them to find an appropriate outlet in which to alleviate their worries. On Wednesday, Sept. 30, Fairfield will host its third annual Fresh Check Day. The event, which takes place from 4-7 p.m. in the Barone Campus Center Oak Room, brings awareness to mental health resources on campus and coping mechanisms, an ideal event for this time in the semester.

Fresh Check Day is a touring event created by the Jordan Matthew Porco Memorial Foundation, encouraging peer-to-peer dialogue on mental health and suicide prevention.

The event came to Fairfield through Counseling and Psychological Services after the death of Julia Ryder Sill ‘13 in 2011. “Fresh Check Day is a celebratory fair-like event that includes interactive expo booths, live music, free food, exciting prizes and giveaways,” said Colleen Wilson, assistant director of student programs in the Office of Student Engagement. “Each club or organization will have their own booth

that is focused around doing activities to promote empowerment, positivity, suicide and bystander awareness, as well as letting students know about the mental health resources on our campus.”

The event is a collaboration between various university departments, such as Student Engagement, Residence Life, Counseling and Psychological Services and Student Health Services. Various student groups on campus are participating in Fresh Check Day, including Wounded Warrior Project, the Department of Public Safety, Inter Residence Hall Association and Psychology Club. According to Wilson, the involved organizations were asked to participate through email. WVOF, The Lionfish and The Story Unfolds Band will be providing entertainment throughout the event. Super Duper Weenie and Mister Softee food trucks will be also be present throughout the event.

Wilson sees the event as a way to break the taboo about mental health on campus.

“Fresh Check Day is important for the student body because it creates an approachable atmosphere where students are encouraged to engage in dialogue about mental READ

MAKING ON PAGE 4

By the numbers: 63% of students think they make us lazy.

12% of students think they are practical.

25% of students have no opinion on the matter. (according to a poll conducted by The

sisting of 55 students)

Maggie Brekka /The Mirror

Students, like Jerry Johnson ‘19, are using balance scooters to navigate around campus, a trend that has begun this school year.

READ

BALANCE ON PAGE 2

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

News

I think they have a very convenient and practical use and am interested in purchasing one.

I think they make students seem lazy because they don’t allow students to get exercise by walking to classes.

I don’t have an opinion on the matter.

Balance scooters race through Fairfield

By Maggie Brekka Contributing Writer Recently, a new trend has been zipping its way through Fairfield’s campus sidewalks. The “balance scooter,” as some have come to call it, is quickly becoming a mysterious new trend.

Although the origin of this device is unclear, it garnered viral popularity when it appeared on Justin Bieber’s Instagram during the summer.

The balance scooter soon became a celebrity favorite as it made its way onto the soles of Nick Jonas, Nicki Minaj, Zedd and many more, according to Wired Magazine. And now it has made its way to Fairfield.

At the moment, only a few students have been seen with this trending device, one of whom is Jerry Johnson ‘19.

Johnson is a huge fan of these motor-

ized devices. He finds his scooter to be a convenient transportation. According to Johnson, he thinks that everyone should get one of these balance scooters.

Freshman Matt Pauwels has also hooked onto this electronic trend, which he noted goes by several different nicknames.

These nicknames include “swegway,” “swagway,” “hoverboard” and “balance board.” This device also goes by several different names depending where you look.

On such sites as Amazon, the device goes by the title “Smart Two Wheel Self Balancing Electric Scooter.”

Some students, however, are not as thrilled with these balance scooters.

Freshman Nick DiLullo is not a fan of these devices.

He thinks that such devices would

make people “lazy” because they make walking unnecessary.

Freshman Tash Seifried remarked that she would use it for a few days, but after that she probably wouldn’t use it again.

Seifried describes these boards as something “you would buy if you could afford to.” On Amazon.com, for example, the balance board is listed between $320-$599.

The balance scooter has garnered mixed reviews from the student body, although a majority of students find that balance boards make students lazy, according to a poll conducted by the Fairfield Mirror.

It is undeterminable if this trend will take off, but for now it is just at its inception on this college campus.

Contributed by FUSA

Students take pictures with the president at Prez Ball.

FUSA rolls out red carpet for Prez Ball Lantern Point. The bus starts between 8-9:30 p.m. and the return bus starts again at 11 p.m. and runs until 12:30 a.m.

This shuttle service is one of the many ways Fairfield is promoting student safety during the event. Wilson said, “Our goal is to ensure students make safe and smart choices around alcohol use.

Last year, one student needed medical attention which is [one] too many.”

There are pre-Prez Ball activities within the residential halls and there will be food trucks in front of the chapel following the dance. In addition, throughout the event various finger foods will be provided including: hot dogs, mac n’ cheese bites, sliders, popcorn, hot pretzels and cupcakes.

With the event just under a week away, students like Jameson Duncan ’18, are looking forward to, “being able to hang out with everyone on campus at once while having a great time listening to awesome music.”

Senior Felicia Staropoli shared her excitement about going to her last Prez Ball: “All I want is to take a picture with Father von Arx because he’s the coolest man alive. I’ve gotten a picture with him every year so it’s a tradition that I need to complete.”

pizza/giveaways/fun

English Department

THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

News

News: In the United States

By Catherine Veschi News Editor

Compiled by Austin Wesolowski Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.

Tuesday, 9/22 7:43 a.m. – An individual received a ticket while driving on Leeber Road for having students in the bed of his pickup truck. The driver is being referred to student conduct.

Thursday, 9/24 12:22 a.m. – Three students fled from the DPS when seen walking around the Bellarmine Zen garden. The individuals were found and are being referred to the Office of the Dean of Students.

Friday, 9/25 8:20 p.m. – One student and one non-student were found in a parked car in the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts parking lot acting suspicious. The student was arrested by Fairfield Police for possession of marijuana. This incident also led DPS to the student’s room where he was found to also have alcohol as a minor. The student has been referred to student conduct for these violations.

9:39 p.m. – An individual was found to be tampering with a camera in Claver Hall, and the student was referred to student conduct.

10:58 p.m. – Two non-students were found on campus by DPS and were unable to say their student guest host when asked. They were escorted off campus.

Saturday, 9/26 4:51 p.m. – A motorcycle in the townhouse 6 block was vandalized. The exact damage is still unknown by DPS. Please contact DPS with any information regarding the incident.

11:45 p.m. – Three unregistered guests in Jogues Hall were uncooperative with Residence Life and were issued criminal trespass warnings by DPS. Sunday, 9/27 2:49 p.m. – Two laptops were taken from an unlocked townhouse door. Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact DPS.

CAU TTIO N O I N U CA

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1. Shalimar, Fla. – Okaloosa County Sheriff ’s Deputy Bill Myers, 64, was shot by Joel Dixon Smith, 33, outside the law office at around 8:20 a.m. and one of the bullets struck him in the back of the head.

Smith then fled to a nearby Comfort Inn about 9 miles away in Niceville, where he barricaded himself in a room.

2. Phoenix, Ariz. – Thousands of bees swarmed through a suburban Phoenix neighborhood Tuesday evening, stinging six people, including four who had to be hospitalized, before firefighters drove them off with foam and fire hoses.

3. Burbank, Calif. – A 78-year-old shopper said he was punched in the face by another customer, Derrick Gharabighi, 24, after complaining to the man about taking too many Nutella waffles. Gharabighi was charged with felony elder abuse and personal infliction of great bodily injury against a person over 70 years of age.

4. Chicago, Ill. – Mario Casciaro, who was sentenced to 26 years in prison in 2013 for the death of a missing Illinois teen, walked out of the Menard Correctional Center on Sept. 23 after a state appellate court ruled that his conviction be reversed.

THE MIRROR Incorporated 1977

Patrick Kiernan, Editor-in-Chief Meaghan Conlon, Executive Editor Angela Sammarone, Managing Editor Editors Catherine Veschi, News Britta Gunneson, Assistant News Ariana Puzzo, Opinion Andrew DaRosa, Vine Juliana Sansonetti, Assistant Vine Allison White, Coffee Break Alfredo Torres, Sports Nicole Funaro, Chief Copy Editor Gabriela Piatek, Assistant Copy Editor Meaghan Kirby, Staff Writer Online Michael Genovese, Web Master Business Department Email: advertising@fairfieldmirror.com Christopher Lapone, Director of Finance Albert Rosica, Director of Advertising Matthew Lazicky, Circulation Adviser Dr. Tommy Xie Contact Information Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, BCC 104 Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824 General email: info@fairfieldmirror.com

5.

5. Wilmington, Del. – Police officers fatally shot an armed man in a wheelchair after responding to a call that the man had a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Authorities say “a departmental shooting ensued” and that the man died on the scene.

6. Honolulu, Hawaii – Braxton Rocha, 27, a spear fisherman said that he fought off a large tiger shark by smacking it in its nose after it locked onto his leg along a remote stretch of Big Island coastline.

7. Denver, Colo. – A Colorado teenager has been arrested on suspicion of calling in fake bomb threats to a California high school this month in so-called “swatting” pranks that prompted the cancellation of classes. According to the FBI, on Sept. 8 and again the following day, the teen, using an alias, telephoned Corona police to say he had planted explosives on the school campus.

8. Raleigh, N.C. – A 3-year-old North Carolina girl whose father, Alan Tysgeen Eugene Lassiter, is accused of trying to drown her and her siblings, has died. An off-duty sheriff ’s deputy pulled Tysgeen’s two daughters, ages 3 and 5, from a pond in Durham on Sunday night, according to police.

Their 7-year-old brother escaped from the sceneand sought help.

News: Around the World

By Britta Gunneson Assistant News Editor

Deair al-Zour, Syria – France has launched its first air-strike against the Islamic State in Syria, destroying a training camp. Until recently, the French government had insisted that airstrikes in Syria would not help their crusade against the Assad government. However, a correspondent says that Syria is now a larger concern for France.

Sriharikota, India – India will launch a mini-hubble space observatory on Monday. If successful, it will be the first state in the developing world to place a telescope in space. The project began in 1996, and got its first green-light in 2004. Once launched, the Indian Space Research Organization estimated it will be in the air for about five years.

Barcelona, Catalonia – The Catalonian Separatist Parties have won an absolute majority in the regional elections Sunday night. The party alliance claims that this is the popular-vote go-ahead to make Catalonia a separate state from Spain. Spain’s central government has already announced that they will do all efforts to deflect a vie for independence from the region.

Moscow, Russia – Russia and Estonia traded criminals on Saturday. Russia freed an Estonian officer jailed for spying in August, and Estonia returned a security official in the middle of a 16-year sentence. This exchange signifies the end of a lengthy controversial situation between the two countries regarding release of the Estonian officer in Russia.

The actual release was done via a set of official pardons.

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

News

Senior dues spark controversy quest money from others. The payment would be submitted to Cyprus and Anastasio’s perThe new co-Presidents of sonal Venmo accounts. the Fairfield Beach Residence Many students, such as Organization (BRO), Gianna Juliana Killip ‘16, felt that the Anastasio ’16 and Evan Cy- issue of class dues was handled prus ’16, formally announced poorly by the BRO co-presithrough an email to the se- dents. nior class that dues for those Killip said that she thought seniors not living on Fairfield the class dues were expensive, Beach need to be paid by Sept. and “although it would last the 30. entire year, it seems unrealistic In their email, Anastasio for me to put down $140 when and Cyprus addressed the fact the dues do not even include that the money accumulat- transportation to and from the ed by these dues would offset beach as well as the amount of the cost for off-campus beach alcohol I would consume.” events, which would allow seSenior Brigid Callahan niors not living on the beach also felt that the $140 senior to participate in those events. dues were an unreasonable An email was sent out to price for students to pay. seniors living on the beach this “The price of $140, howyear on Aug. 28, asking stu- ever, is a steep one to pay for dents to pay the partying expenssame fee as those es and not an seniors living on Since it is my amount that I, or campus by Sept. last year I care many other stu9. about having a dents, can afford The email good time with to pay,” Callahan was sent out to my good friends said. all seniors liv- and making the Killip also ing on campus best out of each felt that students on Sept. 18, ask- opportunity. who are not ing the students heavy drinkers to pay $140 per -Juliana Killip ‘16 should not have student. Student athletes were to pay as much in senior dues, asked to pay $100 per student. since a portion of the money Accompanied with the from the senior dues will be email was a link to a website used to purchase alcohol for Anastasio and Cyprus said senior events on the beach. students can utilize to see “de“Personally for me I am tailed explanations on what not the type of person to con[their] senior year will be sume that much alcohol so like, including more informa- it seems as if I am paying for tion on senior dues, the full other people’s alcohol, which 2015-2016 calendar, our newly for me is not putting my own added events, and Nauts,” the money to use. I would rather email stated. pay for my drinks as I go,” KilAnastasio and Cyprus lip said. said in their email that they Many students also wished would prefer payment through that the purpose of the senior either cash or Venmo, an app dues and where the money on which you can pay and re- from the senior dues would be

By Catherine Veschi News Editor

going would have been made clearer by the BRO co-presidents.

Callahan said that she “was under the impression that we had to pay the $140 before ticket prices for major events like Mock Wedding and Clam Jam, which, although ‘beach’ events, are events that a lot of seniors like to go to even if they don’t party at the beach regularly. Apparently that isn’t the case, and you can still go to Mock Wedding and Clam Jam by just getting your tickets.”

“I know I will not be paying the dues as it doesn’t make sense for me to when the only two events I want to go to are available through their own tickets,” Callahan added.

Beyond the senior dues themselves, many students also had issues with the manner in which Anastasio and Cyprus informed the seniors of the dues.

For Killip, the line the BRO co-presidents wrote on the website, which reads “So DON’T be that guy (or girl) that doesn’t pay your dues,” was inappropriate, as it seems to say “that if someone can’t afford it, he or she should feel bad,” Killip said.

Killip feels that the entire concept of the senior dues is extraneous. “Since it is my last year I care about having a good time with my good friends and making the best out of each opportunity; therefore, I can put my money to better use and pay for the alcohol that I want and can handle.”

When asked about the notification the co-presidents sent out about the senior class dues, Anastasio and Cyprus said that they wished to not comment on the matter.

Biardi instructs naturalist program at Audubon

By Juliana Sansonetti Assistant Vine Editor Students are accustomed to seeing Associate Professor of Biology James Biardi teaching in Bannow Science Center.

But recently, he’s extended his teaching outside of Fairfield’s campus to Burr Street, where Connecticut’s Audubon Center is located.

Biardi, who is also the director of the Environmental Studies Program at Fairfield, is one of the instructors in the Master Naturalist program, a series of workshops at the center that focuses on ecosystems, plant and bird identification and wildlife, to prospective naturalists.

The certificate program, which began on Sept. 15 and runs every Tuesday until Nov. 17., is open to anyone who is interested. The program entails 40 hours of classroom instruction as well as fourhour field training sessions. Prospective naturalists also must complete 40 additional volunteer hours to receive their Master Naturalist certificate.

This is Biardi’s second time participating in the workshops at the Audubon Center, explaining that the program “brings in experts on the variety of organisms (birds, mammals, insects, etc.) and habitats (coastal, estuarine, forest, etc.) found here in southwestern Connecticut. Each speaker gives a workshop that includes some classroom discussion, followed by an opportunity for the students to learn outside in the Larsen Wildlife Sanctuary and practice that new knowledge.”

Considered an expert on Connecticut wildlife, Biardi intends to incorporate his knowledge of the local wildlife, among other topics, into his course at the Audubon.

“I will give an overview of the diversity and ecology of the mammals

of southwestern Connecticut. In the classroom we will examine the major groups of mammals, ranging from those that are abundant and familiar (squirrels, deer, raccoons) to those that are much more shy or rare (shrews, bats, moles and mink),” he said of the course.

In addition to this, Biardi will discuss the habitat and niche of the creatures he will cover in his course, along with their importance to ecosystems in the Northeast.

“We will also have a chance to talk about some current wildlife management (i.e. deer), conservation (i.e. bats, carnivores, cottontails) and health issues (i.e. Lyme disease) related to natural populations of Connecticut mammals,” Biardi added.

In reflecting on his own interest in science, Biardi explained that he has wanted to go into the field for as long as he can remember, but specifically developed an interest in nature while studying in college.

“I became more interested in biology as an undergraduate, when I had the chance to do research on packrats, pocket mice and other small mammals in Baja, California. I’ve continued that work ever since, and am still learning new things all the time,” he said.

Biardi went on to explain the crucial role science plays in our lives today, as well as the benefits of science that we all enjoy that often go unnoticed.

“Science is essential to understanding the natural world, underlies new technology and medical innovations and helps in solving real world problems,” he said. “We all benefit from scientific knowledge, so weven if you’re not planning a career in science it’s important to understand how science works. If nothing else it might save you from wasting money on fortune tellers.”

Career & Internship Fair to host Big Four accounting firms Continued from page 1

Synchrony Financial, Cius Energy and Prosek Partners. Additionally, there will representatives from a host of various industries looking to talk to students.

According to Borgman, the key to a successful experience is being prepared.

“Do your research before the day of the fair. Look up who will be attending and identify those companies you know you want to visit,” she said, adding, “Have several copies of your resume ready (not your high school resume), put on a suit or professional outfit and come to Alumni Hall.”

Borgman also noted that, while it’s OK to attend the event with friends, traveling in packs can hinder the fair experience.

“You want future employers to see you as an individual who is able to function independently,” she said.

Underclassmen can use the career fair as an opportunity to get acquainted with the career-finding process.

Sophomore Alex Arias hopes that the event will be a good starting ground for looking into careers.

“I’m hoping that I can learn about what it means to be in the workplace and how the internship process goes.

As a sophomore, it feels like a good time to start thinking about my future, and hopefully the career fair helps,” said Arias.

While the fair is geared towards juniors and seniors, both Borgman and Michaud believe that it is never too early to experience the event.

“The career fair is something that every student should take advantage of. Even if they are unsure of what they want to do for a career, it never hurts to go out and talk to different companies to see what options are out there,” said Michaud.

Mirror Archives Students took part in last year’s Fresh Check Day in the Quad through various activities.

Making mental health matter Continued from page 1

health,” Wilson said. “Fresh Check Day helps to build a bridge between students and the mental health resources and programs that exist on campus, in the community and on a national level.”

Junior Karyn Ryan, a Fresh Check Day volunteer, attributes the event’s success to how the topics are presented. “Fresh Check Day really resonates with people because there are so many great messages but they are not given lecture style. Participants are able to check out different areas and learn in an interactive environment,” she said.

As a resident assistant, Ryan believes that dialogue is the most important way for students to understand depression and mental health. “I think that a lot of times people think that if they don’t talk about how they are feeling, the feelings will go away, she said. “It’s important that we keep having these types of events to end the stigma [surrounding mental health issues.]”

All Fairfield students are encouraged to attend and freshmen will receive Thrive FYE credit. Each attendee will receive a Fresh Check passport to use to check into every booth at the event and can enter to win prizes including tickets to Phantom of the Opera and the Tree Lighting Ceremony in NYC, a plasma TV and Fairfield clothing.

Wilson also believes that the peer-to-peer element of the event is what makes Fresh Check Day as effective as it is.“It allows for students to see their peers that may also be struggling with depression or suicide or a whole host of health issues and realize that they are not alone. Mental health shouldn’t be something that students are scared of or apprehensive about,” she said.

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

Opinion

Opinion

Editor

Pixabay.com/Creative Commons

Lane Bryant proves that one size does not fit all

By Meaghan Conlon Executive Editor If you were to hear someone say “she looks like a model,” I can bet that you instantly pictured a tall, thin, gorgeous-looking woman with curves in all the right places — someone who could be walking the runway among Victoria’s Secret Angels and not look out of place.

I have a newsflash for everyone and advertising companies take note: Normal people do not look like those whom we describe as “models.”

The idea of a “model” implies that there is an acceptable standard of being that people can use as a basis to imitate.

Last time I checked, the real world wasn’t completely made up of people that look like Victoria’s Secret Angels.

Having a specific “perfect body” image shown throughout all aspects of one’s life, such as movies, magazines, televisions and — most importantly — advertisements is detrimental to the confidence of women everywhere.

Even girls as young as age 10 are concerned about how their bodies look. Why are we pressuring young girls, who are already insecure, to be rail-thin and believe that to be perfect, one needs to have unrealistic body proportions?

It seems that at least some of the fashion industry has finally caught on to the fact that not only is sustaining this image of perfection damaging to young people, but women are sick of being compared to a body image that very little of the population

actually has.

During the Emmys on Sept. 20, Lane Bryant, a clothing company that caters to what society has dubbed “plus-sized women,” debuted their “Plus is Equal” campaign, featuring models sizes 14-34 in a line of lingerie that is designed for the body type of the average American woman.

This type of advertising is exactly what is needed to make sure women of every size feel comfortable in their own skin. As Lane Bryant’s brand proclaims, “67 percent of women are size 14 to 34.

But they're underrepresented on billboards, magazines … everywhere. We believe all women should be seen and celebrated equally.”

And with such a notable debut, hopefully this new campaign will propel other companies to reevaluate how they advertise female body image.

This campaign comes on the heels of Ashley Graham, the first “plus-sized” model to make her debut during New York Fashion Week, forcing the media to focus on a different idea of beauty than the preconceived notions already in their minds.

By having a “plus-sized” model right alongside those considered “normal,” the steps toward achieving equality and embracement of all body types is finally making some headway.

Perhaps next Fashion Week, we’ll see not only Graham owning the runway, but also other women with a “plus-sized” figure as well.

Fashion models should showcase beauty in all its forms — not just the mainstream

one that the media focuses on.

When one opens a magazine, looks on a billboard, or sees an actress on television or in a movie, the same body type is shown across these media outlets — and it’s not the one 67 percent of the female population has.

So why is there a term, “plus-sized” to describe over half of the female population?

Is there not already enough of a divide in terms of beauty standards that society and the media also feels the need to label models and people?

I wonder if it is possible to put any more pressure on young girls to be a size four and to fear becoming a size 12 or 14 and being labeled as “plus-sized.”

What we really need is to get rid of the label “plus-sized” all together. How are we supposed to preach about equality if we continue to place labels on things that we deem as unconventional or different?

Not seeing your body type in the media in a positive way leads to deeper problems that I believe many do not think of.

Besides insecurity, lack of representation can lead people to think less of themselves, believe that they are not good enough and that they will only achieve this standard when they have lost weight.

Lane Bryant’s campaign is setting in motion a way to get to the root of the issue: changing the way society thinks.

We live in a media-based world where we are judged on our bodies, how many “likes” we get and what we wear.

It needs to stop and, for that to happen, society as a whole needs to rethink what body types constitute as "perfect."

Unlike what the Victoria’s Secret “Perfect Body” campaign says, the answer is all body types, in case you haven’t been following.

For an equal representation, it needs to become expected that on catwalks and runways, there will be a size 34 woman strutting her stuff right next to someone who’s a size four, with a range of sizes in between.

Plus is equal because it shouldn’t be different to begin with. We should not, as a society, as a sex and as a gender, make woman of any age feel bad about their bodies because of what size they are.

Women, girls, young and old, let me tell you something: You are beautiful and perfect the way you are and it’s high time that you're recognized for it. Lane Bryant has realized this, and hopefully other clothing brands will too.

If you want plus to be equal, you need to support it fully and at all levels of your life. We should not be tearing each other apart based on looks.

There are already enough people in the world that will do that.

We must come to a realization that beauty is not a typecast with specific features to be filled out; it is the embracing of who we are and self-acceptance.

If we, as a society, as a gender and as a nation, stop labeling someone as perfect or a model just because they’re skinny, then we will be taking steps like Lane Bryant toward achieving the goal of equality.

The bottom line is to embrace yourself for who you are, not who society or mainstream media is pressuring you to be.

Voting voices have been vastly neglected

By Erica Osowiski Contributing Writer Fairfield’s elections have always been based on a democratic system with a one person, one vote standard. This ensures that each candidate has an equal chance of winning. As a politics major, I see it as especially important that everyone vote as part of their civic duty in all elections.

This way, all members of the Fairfield community can feel like they had a deciding voice when it came to electing their leaders. But how fair are these elections when it comes to deciding who represents different groups within the University? In my three years as a student here, I have seen this system play out successfully and poorly, and since this is something that is expected to be executed properly, I feel compelled to

Editorial Board Til It Happens To You Patrick Kiernan Editor-in-Chief Meaghan Conlon Executive Editor Angela Sammarone Managing Editor

We often fall into a pitfall as a society when, given our many freedoms, we take for granted something as basic as our safety; that is, until something happens to us. In February 2015, Director Kirby Dick released a documentary, “The Hunting Ground,” which followed two female rape victims from the UNC Chapel Hill. The documentary was accompanied by a song from Lady Gaga, titled “Til It Happens To You.” A little over a week ago, Gaga released the music video for the song, a graphic, but truthful glimpse into the culture of a college campus. Aside from garnering public awareness, a portion of the proceeds from the sales of the song will go to organizations that help survivors of sexual assault.

The five and a half minute video begins with the disclaimer, “The follow-

ing contains graphic content that may be emotionally unsettling but reflects the reality of what is happening daily on college campuses.”

And emotionally unsettling it is.

The music video features stereotypical images of a college campus - dorm life and parties - and reveal the horrible realities that can occur, from an attempted sexual assault in a dorm room to being drugged at a party.

After watching the video, we found that while we could empathize, we could also never truly feel what those who have been raped feel. This music video has spread like wildfire. But the outcry that has come from this video will do nothing if we as a society don’t take steps to change the way rape is reacted too.

We cannot let this music video

share what I have recently experienced.

Since I was a freshman, I have voted in every Fairfield University Student Association election to make sure that my voice was heard and that the best people to represent my class get elected. And so far, I have been proud of who I voted for. I have also been proud to see that this elite association conducts its elections democratically, just like our great nation. Each voter swipes his or her StagCard, takes one ballot, goes into a voting booth and casts their vote for the candidates. Recently, this process has gone electronic with voters using computers to cast their votes on ballots that are in survey format, allowing them to choose one candidate per position. A voter cannot vote more than once after their ballot has been submitted. I

have its 15 minutes of fame and then fade into a distant memory. The lives of survivors of sexual assault and the way that they are treated hinges on the public simply being aware of just how prevalent sexual violence crimes are on campuses across the U.S. And so, we congratulate Gaga, a victim of rape herself, for speaking up for a topic that has lately not been given the attention it needs.

At one point in the video, the camera pans right over the arm of a victim that reads “I am worthless,” another victim’s back that reads “Sometimes I hate myself” among many other heartwrenching statements that reveal these victims’ innermost insecurities. The video wraps up with a strong message from Gaga and the rest of the production team: “One in five college women will be sexually assaulted this year un-

READ IRHA ON PAGE 6

less something changes.”

We want to be that change. At Fairfield, we are undeniably at risk of experiencing any of the following situations shown in Gaga’s music video. However, we are grateful as a community to know that we have the resources available to bring us to that point in which, like one of the victims in the video, we can proudly declare that “we are worthy.”

Fresh Check Day is one of those resources that we can say is a step in the right direction. Its purpose, according to its website, is that it is “a loud reminder that your school cares about you and your wellbeing.”

We will be there, spreading the message that “Love is Louder,” and encouraging you all that Fairfield is a safe, loving home where you do not have to wait “til it happens to you."

Opinion

Stag-gering Opinions Can Pope Francis truly make a difference advocating for greater environmental awareness?

“The environment is a big deal currently. But I feel like a lot of big names like the president, once they say it, it’s like ‘Oh, okay. The environment is a big deal.’ But then ‘Hmm, onto my normal life.’"

Jon Ajila ‘18

“To be honest, I think everybody is aware that there is something wrong with our climate and there is a change going on. But I don’t think anyone’s actually willing to do anything about it regardless of if the Pope speaks or not."

Jen Gambino ‘19

“Yes, I think that… you know, the Pope is a moral voice rather than a political voice. So I think that the impact he will have, if he has one — and I think he probably will, is sort of from below up."

Dr. Paul Lakeland, Director of the Center for Catholic Studies

mirror.com. Join the discussion by tweeting us with the hashtag #PopeInUS.

Letter to the Editor: #IDontStandWithAhmed In the Sept. 23 Mirror, the Opinion piece #IStandWithAhmed is filled with opinions, but is lacking any substantive information that could lead to a serious attempt at a critical analysis of the incident. Like much of current media, the reader is manipulated first to “feel something,” then “believe something” and then to “act / respond to something.”

On Friday, Sept. 25, I was able to view detailed color images of what many are calling Ahmed’s “invention.” Anyone with basic training in electronics or experienced specifically with timing circuits could immediately recognize that the device appears, at first glance, to be the remains of a commercially available digital alarm clock.

I have not seen images of all external sides of the “invention,” and I have not seen any images demonstrating that the repackaged clock is functional.

In short, Ahmed did not invent the device displayed in the images; it appears that he merely disassembled a clock and repackaged the components.

Several questions are yet to be asked and answered. Does the repackaged “clock” still work? Was this a class project or simply a spontaneous “show and tell” for Ahmed?

Did Ahmed alert any teacher beforehand that he was bringing the device to school? How did the teacher discover

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

the device? Precisely how did Ahmed respond to the challenges and questions from authorities? Has Ahmed never seen, heard or read the public service message “IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING?” Maybe the most important questions are, who is driving this media circus and why? Did not a single person at NASA, Microsoft, or the White House think it appropriate to examine the images that are readily available in the media or analyze the device itself before engaging in nothing other than obfuscation and possibly propaganda?

And your Opinion piece mentions an invention, Islamophobia, stereotyping and racism, even white supremacy, without any foundation that this incident was anything of the sort, or anything other than, potentially, an overreaction to a legitimately perceived danger.

You mention the media response to the incident, but nowhere do you mention, nor have I seen detailed reports of Ahmed’s response.

There may be more to this story, but no one seems to be looking for it. Instead, Ahmed is a celebrity for the moment and for no obvious reason, justified by the facts in the matter detailed to the public.

IRHA integrity in question CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 strongly feel that FUSA elections exemplify this really well, and it shows.

Ever since I started voting, I have seen significant improvements in my overall Fairfield experience, from more events on weekends to improved quality of food in the dining hall. I am pleased that, by expressing my voice and voting, I have helped decide who would represent me in making these changes possible.

As a sophomore, I was a member of the Residence Hall Association in Loyola Hall, serving as the Diversity Representative. When election night arrived, the voting process was done electronically with a computer set up at a table. Residents would come up to the table, vote, hit “submit” and then leave.

After I voted, the screen read, “Thank you for voting” with no option to submit another form. This election was closely monitored to make sure that no one voted more than once. I found this process to be fair and abiding to the “one person, one vote” criteria that is the best way for someone to get elected fairly. I had such a good experience in RHA that I decided to run again, this time for president of the Village.

In the email I received regarding RHA, it said, “For the first time this year, the Village will be broken up into Kostka and Claver as well as Meditz and Mahan. This will make RHA even cozier within your own buildings and will allow you to work more closely with your building’s ACs, RAs and Hall Buddy.” However, on election night, the ballot clearly didn’t indicate this, as I thought there would be two separate computers, one for Kostka and Claver and one for Mahan and Meditz. Upon my

arrival, I found that there were two computers, with names from all four Village buildings on the ballot and instead of someone closely monitoring the voting process, I watched a girl in front of me enter the same names into the ballot multiple times.

She did this by filling in the ballot, hitting “submit” and then clicking “submit another form.” Her three friends were standing around her, coaxing her to submit their names for certain positions.

I was told that the girl voting multiple times was doing so “on behalf of her friends.” How is this voting on behalf of your friends?

You’re simply putting their names in the ballot multiple times to give them an advantage in the election, even if they never submitted an application. This process went on for about five minutes before I spoke up and said, “Can you let other people vote instead of rigging the election?” before walking out in disgust.

Upon my return to the voting room, this time with my housemate, who was also running for RHA, we were told that the Executive Board of Inter Residence Hall Association had decided that the split wouldn’t be happening because it was “too difficult.” How is splitting the Village into two separate entities “too difficult” to achieve? I feel strongly that every voice should be heard in RHA meetings and a split in Village representation would achieve this.

But how can this happen if those who are extremely passionate about the process aren’t elected?

I spoke up again and said, “I watched and that girl submitted the ballot more than five times.” The IRHA Executive Board members who were there didn’t believe me and it took a lot of persuasion before

my claim was checked. As it turns out, the same form had been submitted 16 times, not five as originally thought.

Apparently, the multiple votes had been “disqualified” and I then received an apology for what happened before I cast my votes and left.

I then decided to write an email to the President of IRHA to make sure that he was aware of the situation and so that I could possibly convince him to redo the election. In the email, I presented exactly what I saw and even gave suggestions for how this problem can be prevented in the future, such as tracking votes using StagCard numbers and closely monitoring how votes are cast.

When the results came out later that night, my fears were confirmed.

Not only had my housemate and I not been elected, but the majority of positions were filled by sophomores.

I confirmed this by looking up all of the winners on social media.

I also recognized some of the winners as those who had coaxed their friend, who also won, to vote multiple times. How is this equal representation of the Village if the majority of positions are filled by underclassmen? And how was this election fair if the same ballot was submitted multiple times?

This situation could have easily been avoided if it followed the same electoral practices that FUSA follows. I seriously question the integrity of all IRHA elections after witnessing the events of Sept. 22.

How can we trust the electoral system to be fair if people are taking advantage of the system? I am glad that my concerns were heard, and I can only hope that this experience will enhance the Fairfield election experience down the road.

All who are faithful deserve inclusion

By Ariana Puzzo Opinion Editor

When addressing the assembled bishops of the United States during his historic first visit to our country, Pope Francis expressed that life and the family were the reasons for his visit. However, rather than focusing on the positive reasons for his visit, there was controversy surrounding those who would be in attendance for the pope’s White House speech.

President Obama’s inclusion of LGBT and pro-health care guests should not be looked upon as a tactless and calculated ploy to make the pope uncomfortable, as some conservatives have concluded.

Instead, we should all recognize the positive impact that the company of these guests can have on promoting Pope Francis’ message of the importance of being less judgmental and Kenneth J. Borowski, Ph.D. more merciful.

Adjunct Instructor of Chemistry It is easy to assume that some The Mirror welcomes the opinions and contributions of its readers: Letters to the editor must be timely guests were invited and submitted by email to info@fairfieldmirror.com or Box AA. All letters to the editor that are appropriate in order to “fill a will be published either in print or online. The Mirror reserves the right to edit letters and articles for conquota.” In various astent, length and grammatical error. Letters should be free of obscenities and personal attacks and should pects of life, whether contain correct and factual information not exceeding 500 words. it is in advertising,

the film industry or the classroom, we try to balance and control the number of people from different groups who are included so that there are no biases.

I believe a more accurate assumption should be that the guest list reflected the overarching message of Francis’ papacy — that of inclusion and embracing all humankind. Despite the fact that such thoughts should be i m p l i c i t and not

forced, our society is not there yet.

If these guests were invited to the White House to meet the pope to serve the greater purpose of making sure that each “group” is represented, it should be looked upon instead as living up to the example that Francis has shown us. The inclusion of these guests serves as an additional benefit to those who identify similarly to them, depicting Francis’ message of reaching out to those who have been marginalized.

According to Patheos, a non-denominational, non-partisan online media company, theologian Thomas Williams called the White House guest list “a stunning show of political indecorum.”

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arts, entertainment, features

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Editor Andrew DaRosa vine@fairfieldmirror.com

"We are not a generation of bystanders.

We are global citizens."

The Vine

THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

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Pearl Jam, politics and preservation headline this year's Global Citizen Festival

By Andrew DaRosa Vine Editor

Once a year, renowned musicians and global leaders alike join together in Central Park to combat global injustice in what has been dubbed the Global Citizen Festival. Hosted by Stephen Colbert and Hugh Jackman, this year’s iteration of the day-long festival included musical performances by Pearl Jam, Beyoncé, Ed Sheeran and Coldplay, as well as various speakers including Malala Yousafzai, Vice President Joe Biden and Leonardo DiCaprio.

Started in 2012 by the Global Poverty Project, Ryan Gall and Riot House, the festival aims to raise awareness of various sociopolitical issues that not only affect developing countries, but also industrialized nations. This year, the Global Citizen Festival established a 17-point system, their “global goals,” but focused this year’s festival around six key issues: global education, gender equality, water sanitation, hunger, financing global aid and universal health programs.

The concert is considered a free, ticketed-event, but there is a catch. To earn one of the almost 50,000 tickets, one must engage in various forms of social media, sign petitions and call politicians to raise awareness of the “global goals.” Examples include emailing world leaders to eradicate polio at the 2015 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, to tweeting the British Prime Minister to help 6.5 million females in the UK receive a basic education.

At the festival, various speakers shared their stories and support for the Global Citizen cause, stirring up a grandiose emotion amongst the whole crowd. Big Bird from “Sesame Street” shared his thoughts on bathroom sanitation, DiCaprio spoke on the impacts of global warming with emphasis on the dangers of Pearl Jam (above) close out their frenetic main set with their live staple, "Alive."

Andrew DaRosa/The Mirror fossil fuels and Bono from U2 discussed the importance of raising awareness of women’s education in developing countries. ishly empowering “Crazy in Love.” The crowd couldn't get enough But the speaker that moved the crowd unlike any other was opening band of the day-long festival, running across the plat- as Beyoncé flawlessly invigorated the crowd with her lively stage Nobel Prize Winner Yousafzai, who spoke on the impact education formed stage while blasting out vocal harmonies that could send presence and unprecedented vocals. has had on her life as well as the various Islamic young woman that shivers down spines. Notable in the performance was the sudden Beyoncé, though, came with not only a performance in mind she invited on stage. Yousafzai beautifully stated, “It is a book and decision (plans were only made that morning) to have Grande join but a message of femininity and women empowerment, which was a pen that can change the life of a child. It’s not a gun. It was a gun Martin on stage for an acoustic rendition of Grande’s “Just a Little effectively broadcasted as videos played of empowering speakers that hit me on the left side of my forehead, it was a gun that hit my Bit of Your Heart.” such as Ronda Rousey and Maya Angelou. Each costume change two friends, but it wasn’t a pen. But it was a pen that really helped When Martin sadly informed the crowd that the band was added a new dimension to her overarching theme of womanhood us in our lives,” leaving the audience in a thunderous applause and about to undertake their last song, everyone assumed the band that reflected the overall feminist tone of her show. tears in the eyes of many. to close with one of their more popular hits such as “Paradise” or Performance-wise, Beyoncé delivered on all aspects and even While the event was primarily a platform to promote global “Magic.’ Instead, the band opted to perform “Amazing Day,” an invited her friend, Sheeran, to sing an acoustic duet of “Drunk in issues through social awareness, it also supported a benefit concert original composition that had never been performed live before. As Love.” Queen B strutted through her whole catalogue of music that that shook Manhattan to its core. While the four headlining musi- the ballad concluded, the bar had officially been set high by Eng- stretched back to her days of Destiny’s Child with a well-suited vercians each boasted their individual flair, it was ultimately the sur- land’s finest. sion of “Survivor.” As Beyoncé closed out her set with “Single Laprise guests that took the audience by surprise with appearances by Next up on the roster was England’s sweetheart, Sheeran; but, dies (Put a Ring on it),” First Lady Michelle Obama came out to Ariana Grande and Sting of The Police. before the Englishman graced the stage, esteemed songstress Tori congratulate her on her performance and unveiled a new program Hosts Colbert and Jackman laid out a platform for laughter Kelly took the mic and blasted out a beautiful acoustic rendition of called the 62 Million Girls Program, which aims to bring basic eduthat immediately started once Jackman entered the crowd with The Beatles’ “Blackbird” as well as a slew of her hits including the cation to females around the globe through social media awareness.

Colbert on his shoulders underneath a large trench coat. While the bass-driven “Should’ve Been Us” and the hip-hop drenched “NoFor the final act, Malala and Bono joined forces to stress the hosts understood the importance of the event in the global eye, they body Love.” importance of Beyoncé’s previous message of feminine empowerkept their humor tongue-in-cheek as they poked jabs at one anOnce it was time for Sheeran to take the stage, a shrill scream ment and to introduce the final headliner of the night, Pearl Jam. other and at global leaders. from a sea of teens filled the air as the young man sang a heartfelt An unlikely choice to headline after Beyoncé, Pearl Jam pulled out While their role tended to dwindle by the end of the night, the rendition of 2014’s “I’m a Mess.” Sheeran came prepared to wow as all the stops as they tore through their set of straight, raw energy. two funny-men kept the audience entertained through the night as he announced that he will be a one-man band for a series of comThe set started with 2013’s “Mind Your Manners,” which anticipation grew for each coming act. plex pop arrangements. As he slapped away on his acoustic guitar, showed that these 50-year-old rockers can still perform just as well The day kicked off in the early afternoon with an energetic set Sheeran used a looping station to create complex rhythmic progres- as their ‘90s personas. Eddie Vedder, who commented that this was from the seminal English musicians, Coldplay. Doing the best with sions that would have otherwise been impossible with one musi- the first time they played in front of a 100 percent activist crowd, the half hour they were given, Chris Martin and company blasted cian. seemed humbled by the sheer energy in the park as he fed off the through their hits which included “A Sky Full of Stars” and “Yellow,” Sheeran busted through his short 45-minute set that included seamless flow of positivity. “Given to Fly,” a live staple of theirs, was despite Martin’s piano breaking before the set. a number of hits including “Lego House” and a piano-driven ver- dedicated to Yousafzai, who graciously introduced them, and in Martin knew the huge role he would need to fulfill as the sion of “Thinking Out Loud,” featuring Coldplay’s Martin on keys. turn, the band honored her in the most passionate way possible.

Most impressive about this performance While the crowd consisted of mostly younger individuals who was Sheeran’s extended version of his sen- didn’t know much about the band, Vedder and his band connected timental love ballad, “Photograph,” which so deeply that it became almost too impossible to not fall in love included a looping harmony and acoustic with their roaring charm. “Better Man” had the crowd come togethjam session that brought the song out to a er as if they were one giant family to sing the all-too-familiar chorus bombastic ending. and “Alive” boasted the proficiency and passion that encapsulated Indian artist Sunidhi Chauhan and their main set. rapper Common were set to follow SheerFor their encore, Pearl Jam decided to pay tribute to John Lenan before Beyoncé hit the stage. But despite non, who would’ve turned 75 this year, with a heartfelt cover of all efforts, they failed to grab the audience’s “Imagine.” Suddenly, the show took a turn as the band left the stage, attention as most were still astonished by leaving Vedder by himself to welcome back Beyoncé. The two, who the vivacity of Sheeran’s previous perfor- seemingly don’t pair well together, performed Bob Marley’s powermance as well as the impending anticipa- ful political number, “Redemption Song,” which included a video of tion of Beyoncé.

Nelson Mandela in the background addressing the apartheid issue As the lights dimmed and Jay-Z filed after his release from prison in 1990. in literally right in front of me, everyone To close out the evening, Pearl Jam invited everyone on stage knew that Queen B was about to grace the to sing Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World,” which summed up stage. And so she did in the most flamboy- the total energy of the evening and the importance of the free world ant way possible; a troupe of 10 dancers that we have to make the most out of. backed Beyoncé as she belted out the stylAndrew DaRosa/The Mirror

THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

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Connecticut Trio kicks off Quick Center anniversary celebrations

By Erin McElwee Contributing Writer The cellist, violinist and pianist that comprise the Connecticut Trio tuned their instruments backstage as 50 people waited to hear the world premiere of Gwyneth Walker’s composition on Sunday, Sept. 27 at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts.

Violinist Gerard Rosa, cellist Julie Ribchinsky and pianist Linda Laurent have been a trio since the spring of 1994 and are still performing all over the world. They have performed in Weil Hall and Merkin Hall in New York City, and the London Gallery.

The concert consisted of four pieces, each written by different composers including Joseph Haydn, Anton Arensky and Astor Piazzolla and Walker. The program started off with Haydn’s, Piano Trio in C Major, Hob, XV: 21. The second piece performed was the world premiere of “Mornings of Creation.” This fivepiece movement was written by Walker, a New Canaan, Connecticut native.

Walker was a faculty member at Oberlin College Conservatory in Oberlin, Ohio but resigned in 1982 in order to focus on composing music. Walker wrote the piece in the mornings, which is when she writes most of her music. It signifies the beginning of a new day and all that is to come.

After the intermission, Arensky’s piece, Trio in D Minor, Op. 32 was performed.

Finally, the program wrapped up with “Oblivion” written by Piazzolla.

The Quick Center commissioned “Mornings of Creation” in order to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the center. There was no better way to celebrate the anniversary of the Quick Center than for a piece to be performed for the first time in the building itself.

The Trio celebrated the anniversary of the Quick Center with the composer in attendance and received a standing ovation from certain members in the crowd.

The connection between the musicians and the audience was evident as they played their instruments and told a story with their music. There were different types of music played as the concert went along. At times there were slower and peaceful moments. However, at other points there were loud and exciting moments that reminded the audience of the sound that just three instruments could create.

The concert was intimate and brought smiles to all those in attendance. Although it was not well-attended, the music was thoroughly enjoyed by the crowd.

Not many Fairfield students attended the concert. However, Damien Solar ‘19 was there and enjoyed it thoroughly. “I am a fan of the art,” he said. He was happy that he had the opportunity to see the Trio. Complimentary tickets were available to Fairfield students, but not many took advantage of the opportunity.

Contributed Photo

Cooking with Colleen:

Festive Fall Treats

By Colleen O'Connor Nutrition Columnist

We are now in the season of apple picking and pumpkin spice lattes, aka the best time of the year. I love caramel apples and apple cider donuts as much as the next person, but there are also much healthier food options that don’t have the added calories that most of your favorite fall snacks have. With the fall harvest coming up, here are some fresh produce options coming into season as recommended by whfoods.com, a website that lists the health benefits of various foods: 5. Pumpkins 1. Apples 3. Sweet Potatoes Contrary to popular belief, a pumpkin spice latte Ah apples, the classic fall fruit. No New EngAs your typical Irish-American girl from your typifrom Starbucks is not the only way you can enjoy the tasty land fall is complete without a trip to the local apple cal large Irish-American family, I usually eat potatoes with flavor of pumpkin. Pumpkins themselves have high levels orchard to go apple picking. Whether you choose every meal. Sweet potatoes are one of my favorites because of Vitamin C, which helps fight colds and keeps your imMacintosh, Cortland or any other type, you can’t go they have high levels of potassium and iron. A lot of people mune system strong. Roasted pumpkin seeds are one of wrong with a freshly picked apple if you’re looking can be iron deficient without knowing it, so increasing the my personal favorite fall foods and are very good in aiding to increase your fruit intake. Apples help reduce bad amount of foods you eat that contain iron can help ameheart health as well. cholesterol and are a big factor in helping to mainliorate this problem. I eat them before runs as a natural tain a healthy heart. energy boost and to fight off low iron levels during runs.

2. Mushrooms I know most people aren’t crazy about mushrooms — I know I definitely wasn’t at first — but they do grow on you after a while. Mushrooms have a lot of Vitamin D, fiber and potassium, making them a great fall snack. I recommend either adding them to a salad or putting some in an omelet if you want to try them.

4. Pears Pears, like apples, have high amounts of sugar; however, pears also have high amounts of necessary fibers.

Sure, eating five pears a day won’t help you in the long run, but one or two a week will help you get the fruits you need for your diet without compromising taste.

THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

The Vine

ashionably It can sometimes be difficult to put together a stylish outfit that you’ll feel comfortable in for a day full of classes.

If you’re anything like me, you’ve often opened your closet to pick out an outfit, only to stare blankly at your clothes and proclaim that you have “nothing to wear.”

It’s times like these in which I wish I had a personal stylist that could effortlessly put together the perfect outfit for me.

But little did I know that such a person exists, and only a short StagBus or car trip away.

Enter Labria Rhodes, a stylist at Express in the Westfield Mall in Trumbull, Connecticut, whose job is to help customers incorporate popular trends into their outfit while also keeping in mind their personal style.

I recently spoke with Rhodes about this season’s top trends, as well as how to dress for the changing weather so you can have the benefits of a personal stylist’s advice without having to pay for one.

What trends do you see coming into the store in men’s and women’s fashion?

For the women, I know [the] ‘70s is coming back, so bell-bottoms and something like I’m wearing now [a peasant top]. So that’s coming in for the women. Men is more of street style, like

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by Nicole Funaro the joggers and the jersey knits.

can go out with them.

Is there a particular color that seems to be big for fall 2015?

I know olive green is coming out, and the plum color. I don’t think it’s called plum, they keep changing it every year; they had it as burgundy, then maroon, then oxblood, so that type of color.

What is the key to dressing for transition weather like the fall?

Accessorizing, because the transition weather thing is hard. It could be cold in the morning, it could be hot in the afternoon so dressing still for the season but accessorizing it. So kind of look like you know what you’re doing.

What accessories for men and women are prevalent for the fall this year?

For women, I know it’s belts. That’s a big thing. And for men, I would say bowties or ties.

Is there a particular fall trend that you would want to see go away?

Big sweaters. Just because we get so many, and a lot of people already have it, but they have it in different colors, they have it in different prints and especially in the winter time, in big old Christmas prints. That needs to go, because I know we got one that has faux mo-hair. Just no, that needs to go.

That’s exciting! How do men usually wear the ties — more casually or dressed up?

Actually both now. We see a lot of boys here that wear it with their khaki pants and a buttonup, and have the tie on.

What particular pieces should men and women have in their wardrobes this season?

For boys, I would say a pull-over sweater. Not with a big old hood, just a regular sweater. And women, right now, I think ankle pants. Those are big. That’s something that they should always have because they can dress it up, they can dress it down, they can use it for interviews, and they

What’s your advice for someone struggling to find their personal style?

Keep experimenting. That’s the big thing. You won’t find out what you really like until you keep going, because the times are always changing. So keep experimenting, wearing different things just to see what fits you because what fits you can only fit you. It can’t just be what other people like, you have to go out and see what you like.

Plan B Burger serves up burger experience

By Nicholas Anthony Food Columnist If great burgers served with freshly sliced lettuce and tomatoes on a warm, toasted bun are your weakness, then Plan B Burger Bar is the best place for you.

When I go to a restaurant, I consider all options, but the overall decision comes down to which has the most reasonable prices for the highest quality cuisine.

This week we discovered the new burger joint in town. Equipped with a large menu, the selections were endless with 17 killer appetizers and 20 distinct burger creations.

But if you aren’t burger savvy, there are 11 different soups and salads with housemade dressings and seven delectable entrée options. Plus, there are over 12 sides to choose from including the favorites, truffle and parmesan fries, and a massive selection of wine, cocktails and beer.

Plan B Burger Bar, an American beef, burger, bourbon and beer establishment, prides itself on their slogan, “Good Booze, Great Burgers.” It came to the Fairfield dining community in late July of this summer.

This upscale restaurant brings a new energy to Fairfield and is just a short walk from the Fairfield University Downtown Bookstore.

Upon entry, we were deceived by a small front door which opened to an undecorated hallway. “This place must be new,” we thought.

But as we reached the hostess’ station, our first impression of the atmosphere took a 180-degree turn.

A large bright room intersected an upbeat bar on one half and featured an open family-style restaurant on the other.

And, talk about crowded! On one side, coworkers gathered for a drink, young individuals conversed over dinner for two and families filled the red booths and tables ready for platefuls of food.

Customers also have the option of outdoor seating before the weather starts to change. This place is ideal for large gatherings of friends and family.

The updated rustic decor added to the American beef house theme with Maker's Mark bourbon bottles illuminating and encasing the walls around the room with the signature red-waxed tips facing outwards. To pair with the signature bottle design, the room also had red leather seats and a huge, glowing, orange-red MEAT sign on the wall.

We waited for a short while in the foyer of the former post office building and received a text message when it was our turn to be seated. The waitress then immedi-

ately served us Pickle Chips (sliced pickles) as a courtesy item for the table upon our arrival.

We proceeded to order the delicious American Nachos (crisp house-made potato chips, layered with chili, red onions, tomatoes, jalapeños and American cheese), and lobster sliders (fresh mini lobster rolls) from the appetizer list. When I say to die for, the warm, melted cheese on those nachos was to die for.

For the main course, I chose “The Pretzel,” a cheeseburger with cheddar cheese, lettuce and pickles on a pretzel bun. That first bite of the freshly baked pretzel bun was so sweet and rich, contrasting unbelievably with the sour pickles. Each and every in-house ground burger is the product of antibiotic and hormone-free meat.

My friends went with “The Bacon Cheese” (American cheese, bacon, caramelized onions and mayo on a burger), “The Philisteak” (a burger topped with sliced steak and garlic mayo) and the “California Cobb” (a salad comprised of romaine, tomatoes, avocado, boiled egg, chicken, bacon, blue cheese and truffle ranch).

Make no mistake, everyone also ordered either the parmesan or truffle fries that were indeed beyond words, though I would recommend the truffles fries as they added interesting twist to my meal and had to be the absolute best fries I have had in years.

When ordering a burger, the waiter or waitress will ask for your preference, “A little pink or no pink?” Unless you like yours dark, go for the pink if you are looking for that succulent, juicy beef patty grilled to perfection.

After the meal you will receive a follow up text from the staff showing their gratitude for your dining with them, a touch that keeps the customer satisfied with their hosts.

“It’s really one of the best restaurants in town,” said Liz McGurn ‘18. “The prices are great and it’s honestly the best choice if you are a starving college student.”

Plan B Burger Bar is the right place to go to crush your hunger, especially if you have a rather large appetite. I give Plan B Burger Bar a 4.5 star rating out of 5 because of their great service, enjoyable atmosphere and overwhelmingly delicious food.

Ajc/Creative Commons

The Vine

THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

Page 11

Ryan Adams tackles Taylor Swift's '1989' with mixed results

By Brendan Zimmerman Contributing Writer

On Sept. 21, esteemed songwriter Ryan Adams released a stark reinterpretation of Taylor Swift’s hit album “1989.” Adams, a prolific artist in his own right, wanted to do something radically different for his next release after splitting from his wife, actress Mandy Moore, this past Christmas.

During that time, Adams began to listen to Swift’s “1989,” and quickly connected with it. According to Adams, he would constantly think of different critiques and ideas while listening, until he decided to recreate them himself with his acoustic guitar. These mini-sessions eventually inspired Adams to do a full-fledged cover of Swift’s album.

Adams’ new album is made to be a reinterpretation of Swift’s pop material as he showcases the lyrical strength and character of Swift’s effort. Adams takes hits like “Shake It Off,” “Blank Space” and “Style,” and gives them a musical makeover by changing the time signatures and keys for several of the songs.

With a sound similar to that of Bruce Springsteen, Adams manages to transpose the former pop songs into warm acoustic and harmonica-tinged compositions. The introduction of these elements creates a new, eye-opening listening experience to fans of Swift’s version, yet there is something familiar to this approach, which delves into a similar sound to Swift’s pop country past.

Adams’ cover of “Shake It Off” is a great example of his overall goal. In the origi-

Inkwell Spotlight

'Alternate History: It’s Still Benedict Arnold’s Fault'

By Sabrina Dirienzo Contributing Writer for The Inkwell “Okay, but, like,” Maddy said, breaking the silence in the library, “Why is Quebec even a place?”

Janet sighed the long-suffering sigh of a person who had spent far too much time staring at a page of French vocab. “Because Benedict Arnold was the worst person in the world,” she said.

Maddy slid lower in her seat. A few more inches and she would probably end up dropping onto the carpeted floor and joining the thick layer of dust bunnies that lay on top of it. “Can I punch him in the face?” she asked, tapping her fingers on the tabletop and very pointedly not looking at her French textbook.

Janet shrugged. “The Secret Service might be mad if we dug up the corpse of the second president,” she said, slamming her own textbook shut, “Unless some of them were forced to learn about irregular -ir verbs because of this stupid curriculum. Then I think they’d lend us a shovel.”

They both thought about that for a few seconds. Janet scratched her thumb on the edge of her textbook. Maddy finally pushed herself back up in her seat after a librarian gave her a dirty look.

“If I had to pick a historical figure to punch,” Maddy said, “It’d be him. Stupid Quebec-taking-over piece of human garbage. I could be getting a C in so many other languages if it weren’t for him.”

Janet started to nod, but paused partway through the gesture and pressed her lips together. “Wait,” she said, “Andrew Jackson, though.”

“Oh yeah,” Maddy said, “I change my mind. That guy was the worst.”

Wikipedia/Creative Commons

nal take, there is an allegro-paced beat that mixes with an insanely catchy hook in the chorus.

Adams takes that format and keeps a steady pace, though this time, replaces the drums with a single snare beat that is reminiscent of “I’m On Fire” by Springsteen.

With the addition of a mellow, yet piercing electric guitar, and a few well-placed synths, Adams manages to take the upbeat and motivational “Shake It Off,” and morphs it into a haunting and tender rendition.

In comparison, the two albums share similar structures and themes, yet they have different meanings due to the way each is expressed musically. Swift focuses on creating anthems that will appeal to the majority of listeners, with an emphasis on effects and strong production. Adams takes these templates, and instead creates a more personal sounding production, emphasizing the lyrics and vocals to help convey a story to listeners.Through his covers, Adams also unveils the universal applications to be found in Swift’s songs. By adding a different voice to the same lyrics, Adams showcases the way people take songs and add their own story to them. People relate to music as a way to express their own emotions and experiences, which is one of the reasons why Swift’s “1989” garnered so much popularity.

Adams’ “1989” is a controversial take on one of 2014’s biggest albums, yet there is plenty to be found through multiple listens. Fans of Swift or Adams should check out both albums and compare them to hear how Adams’ rendition lifts up the original material and gives it new meaning.

Fairfield alum shares inspirational story

By James Della Rocca Contributing Writer

The Fairfield University Downtown Bookstore welcomed back an alum this past Thursday, Sept. 24, to speak to the Fairfield community about her newly released book that chronicles the story of her, her daughter and the dog that changed their lives.

“Elle and Coach: Diabetes, the Fight for My Daughter’s Life and the Dog who Changed Everything,” is the first book for Stefany Shaheen ‘97, in which she explores her family’s life after her oldest daughter’s diagnosis of Type I diabetes in late 2007 and their experiences after receiving a service dog, Coach, two and a half years ago.

Coach is a yellow Labrador who was trained for 2,000 hours to smell changes in blood sugar levels, a job he was bred for. Elle and her father flew to Kansas after an 18-month wait to pick him up. While they were asleep, Coach pushed Elle’s backpack off of a desk to get their attention and test Elle, showing that she was low.

This solidified Elle’s love and trust in Coach. Because of Coach, Shaheen can act more like Elle’s mom and less like her nurse since Coach goes everywhere that Elle does.

He’s even going to come with her to college in two years.

At the bookstore, Shaheen read a few excerpts from her book that dealt with the troubles they faced immediately after Elle’s diagnosis and how they adjusted as a family, including with Coach.

One of the main struggles was the constant insulin injections that Elle needed after every meal and before bed. At times she was injected up to eight times a day.

Before and after writing this book, Shaheen and Elle campaigned and advocated for people affected by diabetes. In the past, they advocated at the White House for diabetes research, even meeting President Obama. Shaheen said that proceeds from the book would go to diabetes research.

Currently, Shaheen is on the Board of Trustees of the Joslin Diabetes Center, one of the largest diabetes research centers in the world, and is working on a scholarship to help families pay for service dogs like Coach.

Comedy trumps action in 'Deadpool vs Thanos'

By Juliana Sansonetti Assistant Vine Editor

The unlikely pairing that comic fans have been waiting for since the new series was announced in April finally came together in the fantastic new comic series “Deadpool vs. Thanos.” Although the first volume left a bit to be desired, the second volume was wonderful, as it was both action-packed and hilarious in the usual dark Deadpool fashion.Although “Deadpool vs. Thanos” Vol. 1 was enjoyable in its own right, it was marketed to be something it was not. Especially misleading was the cover, which made the comic look like it was going to be filled with action and humor. Pictured on the cover are Deadpool and Thanos, fighting it out; it appears that Thanos has the upper hand and Deadpool is fleeing, hilariously quipping, “It was a joke, Marvel! I was joking when I said I wanted to fight Thanos!” This cover made it seem like the comic was going to be an epic fight for the ages, with Thanos throwing many punches and Deadpool throwing back just as many clever witticisms, but what followed was hardly anything to get worked up about. By the end of the 22-page first volume, only three pages are actually spent on Deadpool and Thanos fighting. The premise of the comic is that someone has kidnapped Death, the ex-lover of both Deadpool and Thanos.

With her gone, no living creatures can die. Thanos and Deadpool agree to work together to save the woman they used to love and bring back Death.The comic was definitely funny, as all Deadpool comics are apt to be, but it was paced very strangely and had minimal action. There was far too much set up and too little action.

The second volume of the series, however, balanced humor and action a lot better now that the setup was established.The comedic timing of Deadpool’s clever lines was much more satisfying than it was in the first volume, and there was minimal unnecessary exposition.

While “Deadpool vs. Thanos” Vol. 2 is just as funny, if not more so than the first volume, this comic brings up some interesting and serious topics as well. The comic portrays what a world without death would be like; it is a terrifying sight that plays on the imagination of the reader. With the idea of death out of the way for the time being, the two characters have the time to contemplate each other’s lives. For example, Thanos examines Deadpool’s self-hate and desire to die. It is a poignant moment that was rather unexpected in a Deadpool comic.An encounter with death-seeking necromancers and the Guardians of the Galaxy on an alien planet made the comic especially entertaining and action-packed.One problem with both Vols. 1 and 2 was that Thanos did not come across as the terrifying villain he usually is. The art of the comic makes him appear smaller and less menacing, especially in Vol. 2, in which he wears a non-frightening looking spacesuit because of the alien planet setting. Not only does the art make Thanos less frightening, but the story itself also makes him less intimidating. Overall the comic was more hilarious than serious, which makes sense as Deadpool is not one to be cowed or intimidated by even a being so powerful as Thanos. He clearly shows that he is either unafraid or stupid by calling Thanos nicknames such as “chin riblets” and “thousand pound bag of lumpy grape yogurt.” Also hilarious was Deadpool’s quip on the state of a world in which no one dies: “Come on, someone has to die for real. I mean, what is this, a Marvel comic?” The tradition of having Deadpool demolish the fourth wall is a favorite among fans, and was happily carried on in this comic. Deadpool, as always, is still a great main character, and if anything, the comic will, in its expansion on getting to know this “Merc With a Mouth” at least increase people’s anticipation to see the Deadpool movie that is coming out next year.

Coffee Break

THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

Page 12

COFFEE BREAK Editor: Allison White

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

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

“I’m only going to Prez Ball for the food.”

“Is anyone else too exhausted to breathe?”

“A turkey winked at me this morning.”

“The amount of times I heard ‘Who do you know here?’ this weekend was ridiculous.”

“My roommate keeps talking in his sleep and I’m scared.”

“I can’t wait to party with Father von Arx next weekend.”

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

Stags Trivia 1. What is a stag?

2. How many professors teach at Fairfield?

3. What company prepares the food in the dining hall?

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

Play some...

Sudoku

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

Sports

Page 13

THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

SPORTS

Sports Editor: Alfredo Torres » sports@fairfieldmirror.com

NFL Week 3: Brady joins exclusive QB club

By Morgan Rosemann Contributing Writer

Call them cheaters, call them liars, call them whatever you would like. But the fact of the matter is the New England Patriots have come out firing on all cylinders to start the 2015 season.

After shredding through the Buffalo Bills’ defense last week, Tom Brady and the Pats put up 51 points against the defenseless Jacksonville Jaguars. Brady was Brady, completing 33 of 42 passes for 358 yards and 2 TDs. Running back LeGarrette Blount had a huge game, finishing with 78 yards and a season-high 3 TDs. There was also history made during this game. Brady became the 4th QB in history to tally 400 passing TDs, joining alltime greats Peyton Manning, Dan Marino, and Brett Favre.

The Pats are now 3-0, and it’s

hard to find any other team in the league that can knock them off.

Their hot start is reminiscent of 2007, when the Pats went undefeated in the regular season.

They thrashed each and every opponent in the 2007 season, just as they’ve done so far here in 2015. The Pats are certainly making a case that they may very well defend their Super Bowl title.

After giving away two games due to sloppy football, the New York Giants finally received a much-needed win against a horrendous Washington Redskins’ team.

The G-men controlled much of the game, forcing Redskins QB Kirk Cousins to throw 2 INTs. Eli Manning was phenomenal, throwing for 279 yards and 2 TDs. Despite being 1-2, the Giants find themselves tied for second in the NFC East along with the Eagles and Redskins.

Speaking of the Eagles, they also won their first game of the season against the favored New York Jets, 24-17. Although they were without RB Demarco Murray and LB Kiko Alonso, the Eagles were sparked by RB Darren Sproles who finished with a rushing TD and an impressive 89 yard punt return TD. The Jets (2-1) were grounded back to reality after starting 2-0.

QB Ryan Fitzpatrick was rattled, throwing for 3 INTs, two of which came on back-to-back drives in the 4th quarter.

Their running game was nonexistent with team-leading rusher Chris Ivory sidelined due to an injured hamstring. This loss exhibited again to Jets fans that although they have one of the top defenses in the league, they’re still without a true difference maker at the QB position.

There are still seven

Highlights from the past week: The Fairfield golf teams swept the Eastern College Athletic Conference Championships this past week at The Club at River Oaks in Sherman, Connecticut. The Stags won the ECAC title as they carded a 287 to Bryant’s 285.

This is the first ECAC Championship for the Stags. For the second consecutive year, the women’s team repeated as ECAC Champions. Junior Jackie Schofield led the Stags with 149, as they took the top three spots in the event, beating St. Francis Brooklyn by 69 strokes. Both teams will be back on the golf course on Oct. 4.

Fairfield women’s cross country finished third at their annual home meet, as they finished six points shy of second place. Fairfield finished with 75 points, just six tallies behind second-place Wagner. Sophomore Sami Carey led the team as she finished in 16th place with a time of 20:44.32. Senior Allison Campbell finished in 19th with a time of 20:52.06 followed by Jacqueline-Ann Willsey ‘17 who finished 20th with a time of 20:55.99. The Stags return to action on Friday, Oct. 2 at the Paul Short Run hosted by Lehigh.

Fairfield men’s cross country finished with five of the first nine individual finishers in the Fr. Victor F. Leeber, S.J Invitational. Fairfield would tie Sacred Heart with a meetbest 30 points on Saturday, Sept. 26. Fairfield finished second as Sacred Heart took first place via tiebreaker. Junior Sam Daly finished in fifth place to lead all Stags. Daly finished with a time of 26:52.49 followed by Mike Flanagan ‘17 (27:08.09), Nolan Parsley ‘17 (27:17.14), Jordan Dixon ‘19 (27:31.36) and Scott Daly ‘19 (27:35.06). The Stags will be back on the track on Friday, Oct. 2 at the Paul Short Run hosted by Lehigh.

undefeated teams after the conclusion of week 3. It doesn’t surprise us that the Pats are undefeated.

But in Atlanta, nobody foresaw the Falcons’ red-hot start. They marched into Dallas on Sunday and scored 22 unanswered points in the 2nd half against the Tony Romo-less Cowboys, 39-28.

WR Julio Jones put on a show, recording 12 catches for 164 yards and 2 TDs. QB Matt Ryan and Jones have formed quite the QB-WR duo, one of the best duos in the league.

The Cincinnati Bengals have gotten off to a surprise 3-0 start.

They held off a Ravens’ (0-3) comeback in the 4th quarter, holding on for a 28-24 victory.

QB Andy Dalton was sharp, throwing for 383 yards, 3 TDs, and no turnovers. Two of the TDs went to star receiver A.J. Green, who finished with 2 TDs and a

whopping 227 receiving yards to go along with 10 receptions.

In Arizona, QB Carson Palmer and the Cardinals crushed the 49ers 47-7. They too, are undefeated at 3-0. It was a huge game for former 2,000 yard rusher Chris Johnson, who piled up 110 yards on 22 carries and 2 TDs. WR Larry Fitzgerald also had a big game for the Cards, finishing with 9 catches, 134 yards and 2 TDs. As we approach Week 4 (already nearly a ¼ through the season), some notable games include the Jets and the Dolphins.

They are playing in London, which has become a ritual for the NFL over the past few seasons.

The G-men take on Rex Ryan’s Buffalo Bills, and the 3-0 Denver Broncos face the Minnesota Vikings. The Patriots do not play this week, as they are on their bye week.

This week in sports: Wednesday, September 30 Women's Soccer vs. Manhattan, 7 p.m.

Men's Soccer at Manhattan, 7 p.m.

Friday, October 2 Men's Tennis at Army Invite, TBA Men's Cross Country at Paul Short Run, TBA Field Hockey at LaSalle, 4 p.m.

Saturday, October 3 Men's Golf at MacDonald Cup, All Day Softball at Columbia University, 10:30 a.m.

Volleyball vs. Saint Peter's, 1 p.m.

Women's Soccer at Canisius, 7 p.m.

Fairfield hosted Quinnipiac for the season’s first game in Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference play on Saturday, Sept. 26. The Stags were led by Skyler Day ‘18 who finished with 17 kills, which matched her career-high, and Sydney Williams ‘19 who added nine kills. Fairfield won three straight sets with scores of 25-12, 25-20 and 25-13. The Stags will continue MAAC play throughout the weekend, as they host Saint Peter’s and Rider between Oct. 3 and Oct. 4 in Alumni Hall.

Photos contributed by Sports Information Desk

In this week's issue...

- NHL season to commence this week (Page 14) - Red Ruggers blown out by UMass (Page 15) - Rutgers scandal, head coach suspended (Page 15) - Field hockey edged 3-2 by Hofstra (Page 16)

Men's Soccer vs. Canisius, 7 p.m.

Sunday, October 4 Women's Golf at Sacred Heart, All Day Softball vs. LIU Post, 10:30 a.m.

Volleyball vs. Rider, 1 p.m.

Field Hockey at Harvard, 2 p.m.

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

Tuesday, October 6 Women's Tennis vs. Rider, 2 p.m.

Sports

THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

NHL season to commence this week

By Patrick Kiernan Editor-in-Chief

The 2015-16 NHL season is slated to begin today, and there are a number of teams that are expected to perform well. At the top of that list is the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Chicago Blackhawks. After beating the Tampa Bay Lightning in a riveting six-game series, spirits seem to be at an all-time high for the Blackhawks, who have won three Stanley Cups since 2009.

However, once the offseason began, allegations hit star player Patrick Kane as he was identified as the target of a sexual assault case in early August. Although there is no definitive answer to his case thus far, Kane has been practicing with the Blackhawks and appears poised to start the season with his team.

So, for the time being, this powerhouse of a team led by other superstars like Jonathan Toews, Corey Crawford, Duncan Keith and Marian Hossa ought to tear through the Western Conference just like last year.

On the other side stands the Stanley Cup losers, the Tampa Bay Lightning. The team will be bringing back most of their key players from last year, including top goal-scorer Steven Stamkos, Ryan Callahan, Tyler Johnson and goaltender Ben Bishop.

Aside from the two Stanley Cup teams, the New York Rangers and Islanders are two other teams poised for success in the 2015-16 campaign.

The Rangers, having advanced to at least the Eastern Conference Finals in each of the past two seasons, has shaken up their team a bit. The team will be without veteran right wing Martin St. Louis who retired at the age of 40. Perennial all-star goaltender Henrik Lundqvist will be in goal, and

is always a sure bet to hold down the opposition. However, the team will need Rick Nash to revert to his classic, goal-scoring self, and for captain Ryan McDonagh to anchor the defense. If they cannot provide the leadership this team needs, they might risk being an average team with a way above average salary.

On the other end, the newly renovated New York Islanders will play this season in the Barclays Center in Brooklyn after leaving their longtime home of Nassau Coliseum on

Long Island. Last season, the Islanders cracked into the playoffs behind very strong play from captain and Hart Trophy candidate John Tavares, surprise goaltender Jaroslav Halak and newly acquired defenders Johnny Boychuk and Nick Leddy. And, after signing both of them and center Brock Nelson to extensive deals, the Islanders ought to climb up the ranks of the Eastern Conference for years to come.

On the opposite side of the country, the Anaheim Ducks have prepared for a solid season after finishing

tied for the most points in the Western Conference last year. The Ducks do possess some of the best runners on offense, including Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. They added to this powerhouse by acquiring former New York Ranger left wing Carl Hagelin.

However, if the Ducks cannot contain on defense, scoring goals will become a reliability the team may not be able to afford.

Another team that emerged from the West last season was the St. Louis Blues, the only other team in the West-

Flickr/Creative Commons The Chicago Blackhawks look to repeat as champions and win their fourth championship since 2009.

Page 14

ern Conference to record 109 points.

This team was paced on offense by Vladimir Tarasenko, T.J. Oshie and David Backes. However, with Oshie leaving for the Washington Capitals, it will be hard for this team to find opportunities to score.

Now, on the Capitals, a team that advanced to the second round in last season’s playoffs, Oshie adds to a winning tradition over in the nation’s capital. He joins perennial elite goal scorer Alex Ovechkin on what will be considered one of the most lethal offenses in the NHL. Other prominent players vital to the Capitals’ success this season include goaltender Braeden Holtby, Nicklas Backstrom and Evgeny Kuznetsov. So long as all these pieces remain, the Capitals should be a serious force to contend with in the East.

A final team that is worth noting as steady competition in the Eastern Conference and shows no slowing down this season is the Montreal Canadiens.

The anchor of this team is goaltender Carey Price who won last year’s Hart Trophy for most valuable player.

Along with defenseman P.K. Subban, this team’s defense is unparalleled, and Max Pacioretty and Alexander Semin will surely hold down the fort on offense. This all-around talented team is not leaving the top of the Eastern Conference anytime soon.

Regardless of what team ends up on top, this NHL season will surely be one for the books, and it all starts with these four games tonight: Toronto Maple Leafs vs. Montreal Canadiens at 7 p.m., Chicago Blackhawks vs.

New York Rangers at 8 p.m., Calgary Flames vs. Vancouver Canucks at 10 p.m. and Los Angeles Kings vs. San Jose Sharks at 10:30 p.m.

Your 2015-2016 4x5 Columnists:

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

Patrick Kiernan Editor-in-Chief

Alfredo Torres Sports Editor

NBA 2K16 & FIFA 16 hit stores this past week, have you gotten any?

Greinke or Arrieta for NL CY Young?

Teams like the Hawks and Hornets have revealed new uniforms, like them or hate them?

The climate change has really affected many, have you caught the sick bug?

2K is always at the top of my list. A dirty cheater.

Probably gonna pick it up by the end of the week. Maybe Spike Lee compromises the game so that the Knicks win the next 10 championships. Well, a boy can dream.

This may be a biased response because he held down my fantasy team all season, but Arrieta. Kid came out of nowhere to lead the league in wins and hurl a no-hitter this year. Plus, he's got a perfect beard.

The Hawks' ones look pretty disastrous, but the Hornets' jerseys are nice. In other news, how about the new Islanders alternates? Those are about as bad as those Knicks creamsicles from last year.

Yeah, just got over it. Skipped two classes so far this week because of "lingering symptoms" and the fact that I didn't want to get anyone else in the class sick. "I swear to God I'm sick. I can't go to school."Billy Madison voice.

I bought the game as soon as GameStop opened its door! The Magic look good in the game, so I can't complain. Graphics just get better and better. I need 2k like a fat kid needs cake.

2007 all over again.

I gotta go with Arrieta, I mean look at his beard! How could you not root for him? He's definitely worth keeping an eye on, kid could pitch and he just hit a home run the other day. The sky is the limit.

Sometimes things should just stay the same, it's going to be tough watching the Hawks play with their neon jerseys. OKC has some new orange uniforms that remind me of an orange highlighter.

3/4 of my rommates are sick, I think all of Claver is catching the flu bug. Let's just pray for a good weekend and lots of "medicine."

See Pat's comment above.

Baseball isn't really my thing but I'm always supportive of awesome facial hair so Arrieta can take this one. Sorry Greinke.

The Hawks need to serioiusly reconsider their decision to match red with neon because that's a fashion crime.

I sneezed seven times this morning and the last one was so violent I almost knocked my water all over my work. So that happened today, how's your Tuesday?

I just wanna give a personal shoutout to Katie Stern who reads my 4x5 every week! I don't know who you are but neither does Tom Brady and that's what Tom Brady and I have in common.

Honestly was going to answer one of these questions correctly but I have no idea what this even means.

I am thinking its best that I resignunless Pat fires me. (Likely)

Thought we were referring to one piece outfits and had to think long and hard about possible sports that wear one piece outfits.

Actually, there is a climate change occurring in Florence. It is cold and I didn't pack a jacket, but shout out to the wine for the warm embrace.

I know absolutely nothing about NBA 2K16, but I'm sure my little Angela Sammarone brother is already in possession of Executive Editor FIFA and will want to play over Columbus Day weekend so that's my plan.

Jesse Erickson Italian Spy

Ya know that is a good question.

Do Italians play video games?

They luv their futbol.

Tom Brady has been killing the competition thus far in the season, what do you see from him?

Sports

THE MIRROR | Week of September 30, 2015

Page 15

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror

Red Ruggers shutout in home loss against UMass

By Alfredo Torres Sports Editor After a tough loss at New England College, the Red Ruggers returned home to host the East Coast Rugby Conference’s top team, the University of Massachusetts. UMass is made up of 11 All-Americans and came into the contest undefeated. Fairfield struggled as they were held scoreless and UMass picked up the win 72-0.

Coming into the game, Fairfield was without one of their most productive players, Justin Paton ’17, as he was serving a two-game suspension, after receiving a red card against Albany. This forced the Red Ruggers to play around with their lineup as they were missing other key players due to injuries.

“We prepared no different than any other week. We train hard in the gym and on the field. We were confident in our ability. We still are, however, UMass beat us straight up. This will just serve as fuel for us when we see them again,” said Hunter Boesch ’18.

UMass jumped to an early lead as they drew first blood on their first try of the game, crossing it to the goal line and slamming the ball on the ground for their first five points of the game. Throughout the first half, UMass displayed aggression as they continued to score and defend the Red Ruggers’ offense.

UMass held an early 30-0 lead through the game’s first 15 minutes.

Although the Red Ruggers were fighting valiantly, the height and strength of UMass was to their advanAlfredo Torres/The Mirror tage. UMass was pushing its way past Fairfield’s defenders

and turning on the jets to make it to the goal line. With less than two minutes remaining in the half, UMass scored once again. The Red Ruggers headed into the half down big, as UMass led 39-0.

When asked about UMass’s quick start to the game, Boesch said, “They fought hard and were resilient. They executed very well, however it was nothing that we cannot defend.”

The Red Ruggers looked to fight their way back into the contest, but UMass continued where it left off in the first. In the very first possession, UMass would score again to push their lead 42-0 and followed with a penalty kick to give them a big lead just five minutes into the second half.

UMass’s defense was able to lockdown on passing and scoring, resulting in Fairfield’s inability loss of possession and inability to convert at the goal line, despite having several opportunities. “Certainly receiving a beating like that shows a team’s true character. Toward the end of the game, our guys were showing a great deal of heart. No one likes losing, but it's how you recover and come back the next game that shows what a team is made of,” said Boesch.

UMass held Fairfield scoreless for the rest of the way giving them the 72-0 shutout victory. “We started out with a great win over Albany, and had two bad beatings the next two weeks. Our losses are our own fault and no one else's.

However we prove to ourselves every day in the gym and in practice what we are capable of, so I have no doubt that we are destined for success,” said Boesch after the loss.

Fairfield holds a 1-2 record after Saturday’s defeat and will look to bounce back as they are set to host University of Connecticut next Saturday at Grauert Field.

Flood's suspension headlines Rutgers scandal Rutgers University has seen its football team surrounded in controversy in recent weeks. On Thursday, Sept. 3, five players on the football team were arrested on assault charges. The incident occurred in April, during which one Rutgers student suffered a broken jaw. The players included defensive backs Nadir Barnwell, Dre Boggs, Ruhann Peele, Delon Stephenson and fullback Rahzon Gross.

Boggs, Barnwell and Stephenson were all expected to be starters this year. Boggs was also charged with robbery, burglary while armed and conspiracy to commit an armed robbery. Boggs was linked to an incident in April where he and Wikimedia/Creative Commons former Rutgers football player,

By Conor O'Brien Contributing Writer

Tejay Johnson, broke into a student’s home and stole $900 and an undisclosed amount of marijuana.

Rutgers also lost head coach Kyle Flood for the first three games of the season after he contacted a professor about changing a player’s grade on an assignment. Rutgers has a University policy banning coach-initiated contact with faculty members over a player's academic standing.

Ironically enough, the player Flood inquired for was Barnwell.

Flood was fined $50,000. “I think Kyle has accepted responsibility fully,” said Robert Barchi, president of Rutgers University, in a statement to nj.com.

In addition, Rutgers has lost

their best offensive player, wide receiver Leontee Carroo, to an indefinite suspension. Carroo was accused of getting into a physical altercation with a female fan after a home game against Washington State University on Saturday, Sept. 12. There is a possibility that Carroo can avoid punishment from the legal system and get his suspension lifted, as he claims he never laid a hand on the woman. “Everything indicates that [the woman] is the only one who should be charged in this,” said Carroo’s lawyer in a statement to nj.com.

Although Carroo’s lawyer claims he has video evidence that proves Carroo’s innocence, the ongoing court case is a story to watch. The Scarlet Knights

have gone 1-1 two games into Flood’s suspension, and sit at 2-2 on the year. Their next game is a home matchup against Michigan State University, who is currently ranked No. 2 in the nation.

This season is looking like a lost one for Rutgers, who built momentum following an 8-5 record in 2014, their second year in the Big 10. Now that they are in a Power Five conference, all moves that they make will face additional scrutiny. Successful college programs, especially those in the Southeastern Conference, have learned to deal with players getting involved in off-field issues. Putting this disaster behind them will be a huge test for Rutgers as a program overall.

SPORTS 16

@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports

Sports Editor: Alfredo Torres » sports@fairfieldmirror.com

Week of September 30, 2015

Field hockey edged by Hofstra 3-2

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror

By Alfredo Torres Sports Editor After a weekend at Philadelphia, where Fairfield defeated both Drexel University and Villanova University by a score of 2-1, the Stags returned home to host Hofstra University.

After earning an early lead, Hofstra battled back to take the 3-2 victory on Wednesday, Sept. 23 to snap Fairfield’s two-game winning streak.

“It sucks, we needed to win this game. It was a great opportunity for us to win and we let it slip,” said head coach Jackie Kane after the game.

Nine minutes into the game, Fairfield got their first possession.

Junior Ann Burgoyne had two consecutive opportunities at the cage, but Hofstra’s goalkeeper saved each shot.

The ball found its way towards midfielder Emily McCauley ’16, who shot the ball past Hofstra’s goalkeeper to score the game’s first goal and her first of the season. “It

was my first goal of the season, so it was a personal victory. But I was really proud of the team, mid-week games are always tough for us but I thought the first goal was really great. Just a shame we couldn’t keep the lead,” said McCauley about the team’s start to the game.

Five minutes after Fairfield scored their first goal, Hofstra came out of a penalty corner where Stella Schoen found midfielder Colby Hussong for a shot at the cage from the top of the circle to tie the game at one apiece.

With the scored tied, Hofstra regained possession and had an opportunity at the cage as Madison Sauve shot just wide of the net.

Hofstra was then awarded another penalty corner where Schoen found teammate Charlotte Loehr for her second assist of the game and Hofstra’s second goal.

For the 12 minutes remaining in the first half, both teams seemed to settle down as they battled heavy defense. “I think we were a little

slow to start today, but once we got our feet underneath us and into the groove of the game, everybody was stepping up doing their jobs and obviously the defenders did their jobs in the final minutes of the first half to keep us close, keep us within range of the game,” said Kane.

The Stags headed into the half down 2-1. Hofstra wasted little time to get back on the board as they scored in the first five minutes of the second half as Claudia Marin Samper tipped in a pass by Simca Schoen. Hofstra pushed their lead up to 3-1 with 30 minutes remaining in the game.

The Stags fought their way back to get even. After three consecutive penalty corners for Fairfield, they scored another goal in the 55th minute of the game.

McCauley assisted Jamie Appelberg ’18 as she found her in front of the cage for a shot at the net. “I loved the execution because Emily McCauley isn’t usually that player and she stepped up. She was a se-

nior and took leadership. That’s the corner I called and she executed it perfectly,” said Kane.

Fairfield would continue to battle, but was unable to score again as Hofstra would escape with a 3-2 victory. “We did well, but they turned around and took the momentum back from us. That’s something that we have to keep working on throughout the season,” said Kane.

McCauley finished the game with a goal, an assist and with three points to lead all Stags. “I think this is a breakout game for her. She was effective on both the offensive, with the goal and assist and the defensive side. She was a good all-around player for us today,” said Kane about McCauley’s performance.

“We haven’t entered MAAC [Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference] yet. They’re important games, but it’s just preparation to get us ready for the MAAC in a couple of games. So we’re getting excited and more prepared each game,” said McCauley after Wednesday’s loss.

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror