Fairfield Mirror 9/9/2015

Minions

The Warehouse

Going Places

FTC preps to open their fourth music venue with a stellar lineup and advanced technology.

Greg Downing ‘07 selected to 2015 U.S. Men’s Indoor National Team.

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Vine

Opinion Is the newest sign of the end of the world the takeover by the Minions?

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Sports

THE MIRROR Independent student newspaper

Week of September 9, 2015

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Vol. 41 Iss. 2

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‘Stags on the Run’ bookstore addition crosses the finish line

By Catherine Veschi News Editor

However, Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs Jim FitzPatAfter nearly two years of plan- rick ‘70 believes that the delay in ning and making adjustments, progress on the project was actually “Stags on the Run” a branch of the beneficial to the end result, saying University’s on-campus bookstore, that it gave the University more time to plan. has come into fru“What started ition to kick off the I knew it was out as a negative, not 2015-2016 school going to be good, being able to do it in year. the summer of 2014, Many students but I didn’t know actually turned out may have noticed to help us,” said Fitzthe expansions the it was going to be Patrick. bookstore has un- this good.

Stags on the derwent, including -Jim FitzPatrick ‘70 the addition of a Assistant Vice President of Run offers students convenience store Student Affairs many amenities that were not previously called Stags on the Run. The addition is located in the available, such as fresh fruit, sandspace previously occupied by the wiches and salads to grab-and-go, printers and vending machines out- frozen meals, health and beauty side the bookstore; these can now products and much more, all of be found in the main hallway to the which were selected by a poll of students conducted several months right of the Information Desk.

ago, said Bruce Sumner, regional manager of Follett, the textbook distributor for the bookstore.

According to Sumner, Stags on the Run was implemented so that “Fairfield students will no longer have to leave campus to Catherine Veschi/The Mirror get those basic items they need to Bookstore renovations have drawn to a conclusion after construction this summer. live their lives on campus.”

For Sarah Canty ‘18, however, Sumner added that the time Run, saying that the addition gives students will save going to local students the ability to grab food on the most convenient part of Stags grocery stores will contribute to the the go if they’re in a rush, rather on the Run is its location within the time they can spend studying and than going to Main Dining Room bookstore, which allows students to access the basic necessities sold in to eat. enjoying their college experience.

“People will definitely come in Stags on the Run without having to Overall, students and faculty are pleased with the final result of here just to grab snacks to munch walk through the rest of the bookon during class or while studying,” store.

Stags on the Run. While Sumner is appreciative FitzPatrick spoke of the final Munoz continued.

Many students, such as Neil of the final product, he acknowlappearance of the bookstore, saying, “I knew it was going to be good, but Casey ‘18, also mentioned that the edged that the project didn’t run I didn’t know it was going to be this hard work on the construction of completely smoothly. According to “Stags on the Run” over the summer Sumner, Follett and Fairfield Unigood.”

Freshman Rob Munoz appreci- paid off, saying that it “looks pleasates the convenience of Stags on the ing to the eye.”

READ HARD ON PAGE 4

FUSA’s Fall Concert to host unexpected artists

By Meaghan Conlon Executive Editor

Meaghan Conlon/The Mirror

Students in the 1970s would have been stoked to see a motown performance; while they might not have had the opportunity back then, the time has finally come.

The Fairfield University Student Association’s Fall Concert, an annual tradition, will be hosting the Temptations Review as well as Matt and Kim, at Rafferty Stadium during Alumni and Family Weekend on Oct. 24 and 25.

The decision to headline Matt and Kim and the Temptations Review was to appeal to all age ranges that will be on campus during Alumni and Family Weekend.

This concert is a joint project between FUSA and the Advancement Office as part of the new Fairfield Rising Campaign, using the concert to promote Fairfield’s

latest fundraising effort.

What will also hope to draw a crowd to this concert is that tickets are free for all Fairfield students because of FUSA’s work with the Advancement Office.

Tickets are also free for alumni and parents, but only with the

purchase of one of the available packages.

“You want to be able to provide to everybody and get more students to come, and make sure the alumni know that students are READ

THE TEMPTATIONS ON PAGE 2

Wikipedia/Creative Commons

News

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

Fairfield rises to the occasion with new campaign

By Britta Gunneson Assistant News Editor

Carolyn Scaglione/ FUSA

On Friday, Aug. 28, students and faculty gathered outside the Barone Campus Center to welcome a new comprehensive capital campaign to Fairfield’s campus.

The new campaign, “Fairfield Rising,” is an initiative between Fairfield students, families, alumni and faculty to join together and ensure that Fairfield continues to enrich lives with its unique educational experience.

“Its impact will be significant to all constituencies of the University, however our students are the main beneficiaries,” stated Walter Halas, vice president for University Advancement.

“We will continue to improve our academic and non-academic offerings, we will continue to improve the quality of our professors and we will have first class facilities to teach, learn, socialize and compete.”

Fairfield Rising will consist of three fundraising pillars, focusing on people, programs and Facilities. Each pillar will raise donor support to improve academic programs, scholarships and faculty.

“The ‘programs’ pillar is intended to raise donor support for academic programs in each discipline. Our nursing and health studies program is a good example that combines the integrated efforts of the School of Nursing, Dolan School of Business, College of Art and Sciences and School of Engineering,” stated Halas.

The campaign will also focus on improving campus facilities, creating state-ofthe-art spaces for all students.

“The ‘facilities’ pillar has already supported the raising of funds to support Rafferty Stadium and the RecPlex. Next up will be the Health Sciences Center, which will house classes from every school,” stated Halas.

Students can look forward to seeing programs across campus that encourage community engagement and Fairfield pride throughout the period of the campaign, which will be officially rolled out sometime this month.

The Temptations and Matt and Kim headline Fall Concert CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

well as the chance to show the alumni the final result of what still getting involved,” said Anif their outpouring of donations McDonald ‘16, president of FUSA. built.

McDonald said in regard to “There was a big donation booking The Temptations Review, made, so working with Advance“Everyone knows The Tempta- ment we were able to have a ‘you tions, everyone knows ‘My Girl,’ gave to us, now we can give back everyone knows all those songs. to you’ type of atmosphere,” said We thought that it was a univer- McDonald. sal thing … it would be a lot of Another pressing reason for fun and appeal to all ages, because having this concert at Rafferty is that’s what Alumni and Family that it is the only place on camWeekend is about.” pus equipped to hold such large As for Matt and Kim, the sur- numbers of attendees as FUSA vey response toward the Brooklyn and the Alumni Association are music group was largely positive. predicting.

While it was not the first An additional attraction notoverall choice response from the ed earlier is the inclusion of food survey, it was the highest rated trucks and a beer garden for those group by Fairfield students that over 21 years old in attendance. was available for booking.

Packages include for Fairfield Senior Molly Gregory stat- students 21 and over: one concert ed, “I’m so excited to finally have ticket, two food truck vouchers a real concert to go to; one that and a beer garden package for features live music and real musi- $15; for alumni and family: one cians.” concert ticket and three food “I think it’ll be much more truck vouchers for $18; and a beer of an actual congarden package that cert experience includes a comthan concerts I’m so excited to memorative mug from years past finally have a real and two beer tickets which will result for $12. in a much more concert to go to; This was done positive experi- one that features to offer more of an ence from students for selive music and real incentive overall,” Gregory niors living at the musicians. said. beach to come and To appeal to enjoy the concert, the large number -Molly Gregory ‘16 but also as an acof both older and knowledgement younger people that are projected that “parents and alumni, and stuto attend the Fall Concert, the time dents who are of age enjoy having of the show has been made earlier. a good beer every now and then,” Instead of the usual evening said McDonald. concert that was common in preTo combat underage drinking vious years, this year’s concert will at the concert, G-Force security be held during the day, at 2:30 p.m. will be monitoring the area and The decision to host the Fall those concert attendees who are Concert at Rafferty Stadium was over 21 will be required to wear a due to both the positive response wristband in order to get into the to having a concert outdoors, as beer garden, much like the rules in

Wikipedia/Creative Commons

24. place at Clam Jam. There have been some mixed reviews from the Fairfield student community over the choice of the concert. Freshman William Gildersleeve is excited to see his first concert as a Fairfield student.

“That’s pretty sweet,” he said. “It’s something to do and definitely something to look forward to.”

However, Nicole Fede ‘16 expressed her displeasure at the headliners for the Fall Concert, saying “Jason Derulo and Maroon 5 came here a few years ago and so I’m a little disappointed in the fact that we can’t get a performer of that same caliber here for the four years I’ve been here.”

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

News

News: In the United States

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

2.

8.

Monday, 8/31 12:38 p.m. – Three Fairfield Prep students were found urinating

by University Field, and they were referred to the Prep Dean of Students office.

9:38 p.m. – A suspicious odor led DPS to a room in Claver Hall where, after entering the room, they found the residents to be in possession of beer as minors. The individuals involved were told to dispose of the beer, and they were referred to student conduct.

11:16 p.m. – A vehicle was stopped by DPS for reckless operation, due to the fact that an individual was riding on roof of the car.

The students were referred to student conduct.

6.

1. 10. 9.

4.

5.

7.

Tuesday, 9/1 1:07 a.m. – Two residents were smoking a marijuana cigarette outside Claver Hall, and when DPS arrived, they were able to locate a grinder and two cans of beer. The students involved were referred to the Dean’s office.

10:37 a.m. – A young man had online communications with a “young lady” in which he sent her a photograph of himself, where she responded with a demand of $5,000 or else she would broadcast the photo internet wide. The matter is still under investigation.

3.

Wednesday, 9/2 10:59 p.m. – An individual took a giant inflatable soccer ball during an event outside Barone Campus Center. Anyone with any information is encouraged to contact DPS.

Thursday, 9/3 5:46 p.m. – A Fairfield Prep student had not returned home and was reported missing. Fairfield Police, Metro North Railroad Police, the Fairfield Fire Department and the FBI were all on campus aiding the search. A Fairfield faculty member located the missing individual, and he was returned home safe and sound.

Saturday, 9/5 11:10 p.m. – RAs in Faber Hall reported a male student to be stumbling in the hallway, and when checking up on him they located 41 beer cans in his possession as a minor. He was referred to student conduct.

12:06 p.m. – A student reported a sexual assault had occurred.

A male non-student has been identified as being involved and has been asked to return back to campus. The matter is under police investigation.

Monday, 9/7 1:33 p.m. – A fight broke out in Dolan Hall involving six individuals, three of which were non-students. The three non-students were issued Criminal Trespass Warnings, and the three students were referred to students conduct.

CAU TTIO N O I N U CA THE MIRROR

1. St. Louis, Mo. – An 11-year-old boy fatally shot a 16-year-old in the head who entered his home during an alleged home invasion on Thursday. Police found the shot teenager dead in the foyer, and a second person who fled was caught nearby. The names of those involved have not been released yet.

6. Sacramento, Calif. – Three people were shot, one fatally, in a parking lot near the baseball fields at Sacramento City College on Thursday. The community college was under protective lockdown while police searched for two people, whom the Los Rios Community College District Police Department described as black and Hispanic.

2. New York – The four-game suspension that the NFL imposed on the New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in the Deflategate scandal has been vacated with the ruling of U.S. District Judge Richard Berman.

7. Colorado Springs, Colo. – Two soldiers were injured when a Black Hawk helicopter landed hard in a suburban Denver forest in Douglas County.

The soldiers remain hospitalized and in stable condition.

3. Orlando, Fla. – An eight-foot-long King Cobra is on the loose in Florida. According to his owner, Mike Kennedy, the snake escaped from his cage because of weather-related events. After a series of storms, a limb fell on Kennedy’s house, where the snake’s cage is located. The ensuing flooding allowed the snake to escape its cage.

8. New York City – Dr. Gerald Surya, 45, who has an office at New York’s Kennedy Airport, has been accused of selling oxycodone prescriptions to his patients. Surya was arrested Thursday morning at his Long Island home on 26 counts of criminal sale of a prescription.

4. Camp Lejeune, N.C. – One service member was killed and as many as 10 others were injured when a U.S. Marines helicopter had a hard landing Wednesday night. A CH-53E helicopter made the landing at about 9 p.m. during a training exercise.

9. Roanoke, Va. – Vicki Gardner, the woman who survived the on-air shooting that left two journalists dead in Roanoke, Virginia, is steadily recovering and recently got a visit from her dog at the hospital.

5. Soddy Daisy, Tenn. – Hannah Gideon Musgrave, 7, and her brother, Matthew, 4, disappeared with their dog last Tuesday. Despite the search parties sent out Tuesday night, the siblings, were led back home by their family dog.

10. Ashland, Ky. – A Kentucky county clerk was jailed on Thursday for refusing to issue marriage licenses to gay couples, and a full day of court hearings failed to put an end to her two-month-old legal fight over a U.S. Supreme Court ruling upholding same-sex marriage. She was released from jail Tuesday afternoon.

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

News: Around the World

By Britta Gunneson Assistant News Editor

Tokyo, Japan – The 2020 Olympics logo has been withdrawn after plagiarism allegations. The logo consisted of a large “T” with a red circle, and was accused of being too similar to the emblem for the Théâtre de Liège in Belgium. The Designer, Kenjiro Sano, maintains that the logo is his original work.

Bodrum, Turkey – Two young boys were found dead on the coast of the Turkish resort town on Wednesday. They were believed to have been trying to cross the Mediterranean Sea with their family when the boat carrying them capsized. The family was from Kobani, Syria, a city engaged in a civil war that has displaced over 4 million people into various parts of Europe.

Guatamala City, Guatamala – Guatemala’s president, Otto Perez Molina, was taken into custody on Thursday in connection with a corruption investigation. He responded by submitting his resignation, which passed with a unanimous vote.

Quickly after, the former vice president, Alejandro Maldonado, was sworn in as the new president.

Sellakaffta, Sierra Leone – A village was announced as being completely quarantined on Friday after the death of a 67-year-old woman who tested positive of Ebola. The quarantine affects 1,000 people in the village. The announcement comes after five days into the country’s six-week countdown to being declared “ebola-free”.

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News

‘Hard work pays off ’ in bookstore renovations CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Catherine Veschi/The Mirror

versity altered the plans for the developments about 18 times before finding the one that fit.

“Because this is a new concept, me and our home office team have been challenged on occasion to get the product our students want as timely as I would hope,” Sumner said. “However, I believe we have addressed those issues with our vendors.”

For FitzPatrick, the amount of time those involved with the project put in to solve these problems was worthwhile.

“You like to see the hard work and creativity pay off, and it really did,” said FitzPatrick.

Sumner envisions further enhancements for Stags on the Run, including a service that would deliver supplies to dorms and residence halls on campus in order to make the process more convenient for students.

In addition, Sumner said that the revisions to the bookstore will “be an evolving model based on demand and request.”

FitzPatrick added, “We’re not done yet, we’re still very much a work in progress,” saying that the University will continue to make adjustments to the supplies the store will offer throughout the next few months.

Sumner encourages the Fairfield community to provide him and his team with suggestions on any improvements for the bookstore. In addition, Sumner will use Fairfield students’ feedback to drive the concept of Stags on the Run to other colleges and universities in the area.

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Activities Fair introduces new opportunities for students

By Meaghan Kirby Staff Writer The 2015-2016 school year kicked off with another successful Activities Fair on Friday, Sept. 4 sponsored by the Council of Student Organizations.

Over 100 clubs, organizations, departments and sports teams participated in the event, which took place on the Barone Campus Center green and the traffic circle.

As always, the fair provided a diverse look at the variety of extracurriculars at Fairfield.

“I loved the Activities Fair. It really opened my eyes to how much Fairfield really has to offer,” Natasha Seifried ’19 said.

Junior Deirdre McElroy added, “I liked how [the Activities Fair] brings everything Fairfield offers to one place,

ter Green.

so people who are interested in getting involved can see everything that goes on at Fairfield.’

McElroy, who attended Friday’s Activities Fair for the third time as a Jesuit Universities Humanitarian Action Network fellow and as a member of the Students for Social Justice Executive Board, reflected on how exciting it was to see so many new faces. “It was really exciting to kind of try and show new freshmen how many cool opportunities and experiences there are at Fairfield.”

New clubs present at the fair included the Boxing Club, a club where participants get into shape, learn self defense and the basics of boxing; The League, a League of Legends club; and Wounded Warrior Project. Freshman Stephen Dierks, president of Fairfield’s Wounded Warrior Project chapter, found the fair to be a successful expe-

rience for the new club.

“The Activities Fair was a big hit. Over 225 people signed up.”

Dierks started the Fairfield chapter of Wounded Warrior Project because he saw an area underrepresented by the Fairfield community.

“I started the Wounded Warrior Project because I realized there weren’t any Fairfield clubs or organizations that focused on helping veterans.

I have always felt strongly about helping veterans because they sacrifice their lives for us and for this country and are true heroes,” he said.

After a year long vice-chair, the inclusion of these outapproval process, consisting of vari- side vendors was, in part, due to the ous meetings requirements, the club construction of the Leslie C. Quick, Jr. was approved, making the Activities Recreation Complex.

Fair its official debut. For Dierks, “Due to the construction of the the Activities Fair was successful RecPlex, Dean Donoghue, along with for both the club and himself: “I the Recreation Department, had these am beyond amazed and fitness vendors inspired by the huge come in to allow amount of support my- I loved the Activstudents to explore self and the organization ities Fair. It really other options in has received. I am so area to help opened my eyes to the happy that I am able to them stay fit and make a difference and I how much Fairfield active this year, am ready to get to work.” really has to offer.

“McBurney said.

Also new to the For McElroy, Activities Fair this year this inclusion was -Natasha Seifried ‘19 more than welwas the presence of outside vendors such as Uber, and come. “I think that it was great that Catherine Veschi/The Mirror fitness centers such as ZenRide there were outside vendors because it - and Pure Barre Fairfield. According gave students an opportunity to get to to Mackenzie McBurney ‘16, COSO know the many opportunities there are

Catherine Veschi/The Mirror

outside of [campus], especially when it comes to fitness because the RecPlex is, for the most part, out of commission.”

The changes made to the Activities Fair paid off as upperclassmen joined the hundreds of first-year students flocking the event.

“We had almost 700 freshmen swipe in [for FYE credit], so with the addition of upperclassmen, attendance could have been close to 1200 people,” McBurney said.

While the Activities Fair may be evolving, its tradition of inclusiveness has stayed the same.

“My favorite part of the experience is to just put myself out there and get involved in as much as my schedule allowed,” said Seifried, who signed up for six clubs. She added, “You’re only in college for so long, might as well make the best of it.”

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

Opinion

Opinion

Editor

Wikimedia.org/Creative Commons

Gun control should not be a temporary concern

By Ariana Puzzo Opinion Editor The recent fatal shootings of journalists Alison Parker and Adam Ward near Roanoke, Virginia on Aug. 26 renewed the cry for stricter gun control laws. Unfortunately, those cries tend to fade with time only to resurface following the next inevitable tragedy. Has there been any drastic change in gun control laws since the Sandy Hook school shooting on Dec. 14, 2012? No. I am a staunch believer that gun control laws must be tightened to prevent further tragedies. We currently live in a country where gun control has become a political tug of war, with a dramatic increase in the number of Republicans opposed to stricter laws since the Obama administration came into power.

Gun supporters often cite mental illness as the cause of an increase in senseless killings.

While screening for mental illness and past history of violence is crucial, there are additional crucial issues that need to be addressed.

According to CNN, there were 90 mass shootings that occurred from 1966 to 2012 in the United States. Since then, the number of mass shootings has increased. However, the National Alliance on Mental Illness has also shown that despite the increase in number of mass shootings, the rise of mental illness has not changed significantly in the past several years.

The solution seems clear to me: We need to stop misdirecting blame and instead restrict gun access as a whole. I strongly believe that doing so will produce better results than repeatedly putting all of the blame on the same partial factor and then wondering why the rates of gun violence are not changing.

CNN also reports that the United States currently has anywhere from 270 million to 310 million firearms. These are unthinkable numbers, especially considering that we are in possession of more firearms than any other country in the world. Clearly, we must reconsider why our nation believes that access to that many guns, or guns at all, is a basic human right.

This sense of entitlement is a direct result of the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution, something often touted by many gun enthusiasts as indisputable evidence that gun control should not be considered. I firmly disagree.

Although the Second Amendment protects “the right of the people to keep and bear arms,” unlike many defenders of the Second Amendment, I do not believe that the amend-

Editorial Board Shutting Out Shame Patrick Kiernan Editor-in-Chief Meaghan Conlon Executive Editor Angela Sammarone Managing Editor

ment can be used as a defense for those who possess firearms. When the amendment was adopted into the Bill of Rights in 1791, life in the United States differed greatly from life today. The country was only 15 years old and needed to ensure the continuation of its independence. At that point in time, it was important that the country adapt a method to ensure its safety and continued growth.

However, we do not face the same threats to our freedom today that we did over 200 years ago. Those who put the amendment into effect could not have anticipated the societal changes that the country would endure. The threats to our freedom that exist today, whether nuclear annihilation or terroristic acts, far exceed anything a gun can abate.

Therefore, we should not look at the amendment in the same way that the people did two centuries ago when supporting it. Instead, we should evolve much like our country has, and realize that changes must be made in order to protect the safety of the people.

What’s more is that shootings such as these often breed more violent outbursts, something that has come to be known as “the copycat phenomenon.” The impact of this phenomenon was the subject of a study published on the Public Library of Science

by Sherry Towers, Andres Gomez-Lievano, Maryam Khan, Anuj Mubayi and Carlos Castillo-Chavez.

The study implies that mass killings have the ability to become contagious, which further strengthens the argument for tighter gun control. Additionally, CNN reports that Adam Lankford, an associate professor of criminal justice at the University of Alabama, and other researchers believe, “One killing or shooting increases the chances that others will occur within about two weeks, an ‘infection’ that lasts about 13 days.”

Lankford also asserts that the United States’ greater access to firearms is “a significant predictor of these [mass shootings] incidents.” The fact that people without any documented history of mental health issues, such as the recent Virginia shooter, can easily retrieve a firearm is daunting. Often, those issues go undetected until after the tragedy occurs.

Gun violence can easily touch our lives.

Surely, the tragedy at Newtown’s Sandy Hook Elementary School, located in Fairfield County, impacted many of our peers and members of our community here at Fairfield University on a deeply personal level. The time has come to end the political stalemate that serves to perpetuate the notion that gun ownership is a

The first week of classes has officially come and gone, and with it also the omnipresent stress and anxiety of the upcoming semester. The cause may be from finding time to do homework, creating a social life or learning to do laundry. Unfortunately, however, school is a breeding ground for bullies, and their targets have forever been those people that laid outside society’s norms — most popularly those who fall outside the morns of ideal body image.

Fat shaming is not a new trend, but social media has enhanced its ability to be widespread, as images are constantly populating people’s news feed.

This week Nicole Arbour, a comedian and YouTube star, released a video that consisted of her fat shaming people and expressing that obesity isn’t a real disease. The video went viral, with hun-

constitutional right. The Second Amendment must be viewed from the perspective from which it originated and revised accordingly to reflect the changing climate of our country and our world. Until then, no one is safe from the horrors experienced at Sandy Hook Elementary School, Virginia Tech, Columbine High School and most recently, Roanoke.

As a journalist, Roanoke was the shooting

that impacted me the most. I cannot fathom the idea that there are still a great number of people who either misidentify the problem, or choose to ignore the issue of gun control with the hope that it will resolve itself. Action must be taken on all of our parts to prevent further tragedies from occurring and if we choose not to do so, we are as much to blame for the perpeuation of gun violence.

Wikimedia.org/Creative Commons

dreds of people responding and calling out Arbour for her insensitivity to, what for some people, is a real problem.

A number of celebrities were prompted by Arbour’s video to post a response on YouTube themselves, including star of TLC’s “My Big Fat Fabulous Life” Whitney Way Thore. “Let me really hammer this one home,” Thore said. “You can not tell a person’s health, physical or otherwise, from looking at them.” We are all in agreement with Thore: This is not how people should be defined.

It is not unknown to the Fairfield University community that body image is at the forefront of people’s minds.

Whether it is heading to class or going out on a weekend, students transform themselves to fit an image established by the campus culture. And while stu-

dents dress to fit in, you can be sure that they judge others based on their outward appearance.

Society has molded our brains to make our first thought of someone new to be a personal judgement based on appearance alone. It’s no wonder that everyone is up in arms about Arbour’s video; it’s hard enough feeling bad about yourself without a public video ridiculing you.

It seems that no matter what people seem do or how they feel about their body, they are attacked for it. Fat shaming, slut shaming, body shaming; it all comes down to not allowing people to be comfortable in their own skin.

Instead of shaming other people, why don’t we try and build each other up and be positive? Recently, Instagram blocked its users from hashtagging

“curvy." However, their decision was met with backfire from users as particularly suppressing positivity within the plus-size community.

As a result, users have developed hashtags to promote the body positivity that Instagram stifled, such as #curvee, #effyourbeautystandards, developed by American plus-size model Tess Holliday.

It’s time that as young people we embrace who we are. Don’t body-shame others or yourself; you’re only giving in to those who will diminish your value.

So, freshmen, as you are reading this first issue of The Mirror, please keep in mind as you begin your four years here that ideal body image is nothing more than a construct developed by society that you have the power to change both here at Fairfield and beyond.

Stag-gering Opinions Do you think that Donald Trump is a dividing force or do you think that he has an appeal that is helping him lead the polls?

Keleigh Power, 2018

“I think that people are just so entertained by him that they just want to keep him in the running for now. He’s definitely not going to get [the] Republican [nomination], but if he doesn't, I think he’s going to run Independent and split the vote, which will be really bad. I think it’s just, ‘What is he going to do next?’ I don’t think people are actually taking him seriously, but the reason that they’re not taking him seriously is why he’s not leaving.”

“I feel like he’s as far right as Clinton is far left. And I feel like neither of them will [win]. I think that he’s appealing at the moment, because it’s popular to say ‘Oh, I do support him’ because he’s this far right figure who says what he wants and is abrasive and is a lot of other … he kind of reminds me of a very, very, very right-wing Vladimir Putin."

Nick Walsh, 2017

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

Opinion

“I think that both are kind of true. I definitely think he’s a dividing force because I think the Republican Party particularly is very divided right now. And I think that he wouldn't be doing so well if there were really any other strong candidates in either party. I think that’s why he’s winning because voters aren’t really sure which candidate on which side is better."

To see the rest of Andrew and Nick's answers, read Stag-gering Opinions at

Minions need to take their exit

By Ariana Puzzo Opinion Editor If I ever have to see another Minion when I walk through a mall or even on the boardwalk down the shore, it will be too soon. I remember the days when My Little Pony and Bratz dolls were the constantly sought after “must-have toys,” but neither toy rubbed me the wrong way as much as the Minions do.

A great deal of my aggravation toward the Minions comes from their annoying qualities, but I also do not like how they are marketed to a young demographic that is easily pleased by the Minions’ simplicity.

When “Despicable Me” was originally released in 2010, the Minions were fairly popular, but nowhere close to the level of fame that they have reached now five years later. I am certain that a great deal of their popularity had to do with branding because whenever there is an inkling that a minor character will take off with young children, they get their own spinoff.

A similar situation was the craze that once surrounded the penguins from “Madagascar” that would later result in the separate franchise, “Penguins of Madagascar.” There is something to be said for the brilliant marketing schemes behind these spin-offs, but they are no more entertaining than the original films.

Nonetheless, the Minions have even managed to surpass

that level of obsession. I have not been able to go anywhere without hearing about them and without having to listen to people tell me how adorable they are and how cute they find their voices. I went to a Japanese marketplace in New Jersey this summer and I even managed to see a photo of Minions there.

I have listened to the Minions before and personally, I cannot see the appeal in spending two hours watching a film where these strange yellow characters continually speak nonsense.

Their simplicity will continue to lower the standards of entertainment until children reach the point that they are pleased by absolutely anything.

My age and the generic nature of the Minions also detracts from any interest that I may have had in them if I was younger.

Many of them look alike, which completely erases any sense of originality, despite marketers trying to sell the idea that they

are all unique. For the next year, I am certain that we will see college-aged girls dressed for Halloween in a yellow crop top with overalls and a pair of goggles, proclaiming that they are dressed as a Minion.

Although this has the potential to be extremely cute for a five-year-old, there is always a point of excess and that point is met far before someone reaches college age.

I may appear to be extremely cynical about the Minions, but the older that I get, the less interested I am in seeing the same concept re-done for the sake of a sale. The Minions may have started off as harmless, lovable creatures, but they have sold out by becoming over-marketed and overrated.

I could, with no doubt in my mind, say that I will not be sad when the Minions phase is long gone. However, I know that the next big thing that will arrive will hardly be any different.

Flickr.com/Creative Commons

Why we shouldn't defund Planned Parenthood

By Ariana Puzzo and Angela Sammarone Opinion Editor and Managing Editor If you were to go on the street and ask people walking by about the services provided

by Planned Parenthood, the majority would tell you about their abortion services. Abortion is a controversial topic and I have found that the word ‘abortion’ is often manipulated by the media as a means to sway the public’s opinion on the matter.

As I understand it, Planned Parenthood provides various healthcare services, and it’s my prerogative to choose whether or not I use them.

Despite being one of the many healthcare options provided by Planned Parenthood, abortion has become synonymous with the organization. Additionally, it has now become the reason for why some states, like Louisiana and Alabama, want to cut the organization’s funding, despite the fact that federal funding doesn’t cover abortions under the Hyde Amendment.

I am appalled at the notion of defunding an organization that provides much more than abortions. Defunding Planned Parenthood would only hurt the millions of patients who utilize the organization as an affordable healthcare service, rather than putting a stop to the select number of people who use it for pregnancy termination.

According to the 2013-2014 Planned Parenthood Annual Report, the government made up 41 percent of all the funding for the year. Cutting their funding is unimaginable, especially considering the fact that the funding assists in providing cancer screening and

prevention services, contraceptive services and sexual health resources.

In 2013-2014 alone, 487,029 breast exams were performed and nearly 88,000 cases of abnormalities and early-detected cancer were found. What this means is that about 18 percent of those using Planned Parenthood’s cancer preventative services were potentially saved from any further complications. I know that if I were dependent on Planned Parenthood, I would be terrified of the possibility of

not having access to these options in the future, especially given their success rates.

In terms of contraception, the Annual Report found over 3.5 million clients who used Planned Parenthood for contraceptive resources. None of those patients sought abortions. It’s because of these services that according to the Office of Adolescent Health, teen pregnancy is at a 20-year low, disproving the stereotype that Planned Parenthood’s only purpose is to provide abortions.

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

Yes, Planned Parenthood offers abortions as a resource. However, it’s irrelevant to bring up abortion as a reason to halt government funding toward the organization. Using abortion services to try and discredit an organization that provides numerous healthcare services is an abuse of power.

Thinking about college students, having access to a clinic like Planned Parenthood is important as most of us are not within reasonable distance of our primary care physicians.

Additionally, given that Fairfield is a Jesuit university and does not distribute contraceptives on campus, Planned Parenthood is a reliable source for those students who want to seek those services.

Over 10 million patients used Planned Parenthood as their affordable healthcare service, making up 97 percent of their total business, in 2013-2014. People in support of abortion rights and those who are anti-abortion can agree that these numbers are a clear demonstration of Planned Parenthood’s impact.

It’s time that we focus on the concrete impact that Planned Parenthood has had in America.

Affordable healthcare is what’s at risk if lawmakers are successful in their attempts to defund the organization. For a country that has always prided itself as being “for the people,” jeopardizing the people’s, especially women’s, reproductive health is morally questionable. There is a bigger picture that needs to be considered before deciding that funding cuts should be made, such as other methods that could be developed to get the desired results without compromising other programs.

Politics can be a difficult field to navigate and the issues are often incredibly multifaceted. Defunding Planned Parenthood isn’t going to hurt where people think it will.

The Vine

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

Take a voyage into The Warehouse

The Vine

THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

Fairfield Theatre Company debuts The Warehouse

By Andrew DaRosa Vine Editor

As of this fall, your musical aspirations will become a reality as the Fairfield Theatre Company opens the doors to The Warehouse, a brand-new music venue situated in downtown Fairfield, adjacent to FTC’s StageOne theatre.

This 640-seat, 8,000-square-foot venue will allow FTC to bring larger bands into the community without the exorbitant prices that some large venues charge. Aside from hosting a variety of bands, The Warehouse will also host film, theatre, expos, fundraising galas and community events of which will certainly generate a considerable amount of revenue for the Fairfield County community.

When announced in February, it was reported by Executive Director John Reid that FTC had reached 80 percent of its $1.5 million campaign budget. As of now, FTC reports being 90 percent of the way to their budget, allowing them to open their doors on Sept. 17 for their first-ever concert at The Warehouse featuring Rusted Root.

The Warehouse will also become the fourth installation for FTC, sharing the spotlight with the likes of the Norwalk Concert Hall in Norwalk, The Klein in Bridgeport and StageOne in Fairfield. The Warehouse will also become the third-largest venue under the FTC name, boasting three times as many seats as StageOne (the smallest FTC venue) and half as many seats as The Klein (the largest FTC venue).

Known for featuring some of the most high-quality musicians such as Umphrey's McGee, B.B. King and Mickey Hart (of The Grateful Dead), The Warehouse will keep the tradition alive with their newly announced schedule for the upcoming season featuring the likes of Melvin Seals and the Jerry Garcia Band (Oct. 22), Misfits (Oct. 29) and the Marshall Tucker Band (Dec. 17).

Reid stated: “This is just the tip of the iceberg of the many great shows we will be announcing over the next several weeks in our new venue – The Warehouse at FTC. The creation of this venue has been a labor of love by the entire community and we are thrilled to be able to give back by offering some fantastic music, film and art right out of the gate.”

Unique to this venue will be the design element, blending the authenticity of the FTC concert experience with the technology of high-caliber venues. The building was designed by the Michael Smith Architects company, who aimed to encompass an industrial feel to the venue without losing the intimacy between

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the audience and the performers. A world-class sound and lighting system has also been installed into the venue to ensure the most optimum concert experience in the Fairfield County.

And what’s most convenient about The Warehouse is the fact that this new venue is on the StagBus route, allowing students to get off at the Fairfield Metro train station and simply walk over. FTC also aims to attract the college community further with future EDM and rock concerts as well as planned student discounts with the University’s StagCard program.

One of the biggest concerns for FTC though is the lack of college student participation in FTC concerts and events despite attracting over 50,000 people and $1.5 million in revenue last year. With The Warehouse, FTC aims to entice Fairfield University and surrounding universities to get out and enjoy what FTC has to offer.

The general response among the campus community has been generally favorable, with most unfamiliar with FTC but interested in their upcoming seasonal schedule. “As an avid music fan, having a place nearby offering national touring acts would be awesome,” said Kailyn Stephens ‘18.

“It’s hard to go to concerts while at school because I usually would have to pay through the roof for transportation as well as the ticket, [but] this would make concert-going a lot easier and more affordable,” she said.

Pixabay/Creative Commons

Now Spinning: Alternative Country Vibes

By Sean Thomas Music Columnist We're a week into September and so far summer has not shown any signs of slowing down. Summer weather means relaxed vibes – for the average fan of popular music, today's country artists are the essential soundtrack to a warm, peaceful afternoon.

Unfortunately, country music as a whole is constantly taking criticism for unoriginal lyrical themes and a lack of musical diversity. You're probably tired of hearing people bemoan country for relying heavily on the “back of my pickup, beer in hand and country girl at my side” imagery.

For an outsider to country, it's difficult to distinguish Tim McGraw from Luke Bryan from Florida-Georgia Line since they largely write about the same topics. This is a legitimate criticism, but I understand that people love country for its feel-good, low-maintenance aesthetic.

If you're a fan of country's chill atmosphere but want to search a bit deeper, look no further than artists like Real Estate and Kurt Vile.

Real Estate is a band formed with the sole purpose of channeling the breeziest of summer vibes – and quite honestly, there are few rock acts who pull it off better. You can select any track from their 2009 self-titled debut all the way through 2014's stellar “Atlas,” and it will carry you to wide-open beaches on a slow, warm wind.

A good starting point would be their more accessible, driven singles such as “It's Real” and “Talking Backwards.”

These songs are simple and straightforward, but drenched in melody with a vintage approach. A song like “The Bend” is carried along by an extremely pleasant lead guitar before giving rise to a sun-kissed, gentle ending.

In regards to lyrics, Real Estate prefers to write upbeat yet nostalgic love songs, accentuated by images of lush, green pathways and distant, fading horizons. Their sound even shines through the low-fi production quality of catchy songs like “Beach Comber” and “Suburban Dogs.”

Real Estate effectively captures the relaxed nature of country music with a better sense of melody and without the superficial topics that garner widespread criticism.

Philadelphia's Kurt Vile (and his band, The Violators) take a slightly different approach to “chill” with a sound that's uniquely his own. Opposite of Real Estate's tight, straightforward songs, Vile is prone to going on extended jams with serious Southern overtones.

An essential track to introduce you to Vile's sound would be “Walkin on a Pretty Day,” a song tinged with crisp guitars and Vile's signature vocal style. Between Vile's scattered thoughts and lyrics lies a nearly 10-minute-long jam that has all the fixings of a quality summer song.

A cut from Vile's upcoming record, “b'lieve i'm going down...” “Pretty Pimpin” shows the songwriter combining a thumping country melody with honest, introspective lyrics. Vile seems to lose himself reflecting in his own songs, but he never manages to lose the attention of the audience. These songs are precisely orchestrated but with a loose, “put-together” feel of classic country artists.

Both Vile and Real Estate successfully emulate facets of modern country's sound, but with an approach far-removed from the pool of homogeneous country musicians. Let these amazing artists provide the soundtrack to your relaxed summer afternoons as they gradually dwindle into autumn's frost.

Real Estate (above) and Kurt Vile (below) Wikimedia/Creative Commons

PopPressInternational/Creative Commons

THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

The Vine

The official Fall Concert preview

By Andrew DaRosa Vine Editor By now the news has swept campus that the Fairfield University Student Association’s Fall Concert will be co-headlined by Matt and Kim and The Temptations Review featuring Dennis Edwards. While many have expressed their opinions about the choice, there are many who have not heard of the two musical acts, and thus are hesitant about purchasing tickets.

The show is set to take place at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24 during Alumni and Family Weekend at the newly-built Rafferty Stadium. While an afternoon show is a deviation from the norm, the event aims to attract a larger, more varied crowd due to the surrounding festivities.

Musically, the show is diverse in that the music of the R&B staples will meet the sonic sounds of the dominating indie pop duo. While daunting in scope, the idea is ingenious in itself as FUSA attempts to tackle two generations of music connoisseurs.

As to why FUSA would pick two seemingly opposite bands is up for debate, but one can assume that both are considered rhythmically enticing for their respective audiences and thus a surefire hit for both generations during Alumni and Family Weekend.

For those who consider themselves as the unknowing populace, this music preview is your official source for what I envision will be one of the best Fall Concerts in Fairfield’s history.

Matt and Kim

Alternative rock duos have emerged as one of the more successful musical formulas in recent memory, whether it be Beach House or The Black Keys. As this style slowly fades into the clique, Matt Johnson and Kim Schifino destroy all preconceived notions with an enigmatic, tour de force swank that makes you wonder how two people can possibly make a sound that big.

These two musicians pair DIY with only a keyboard and drumkit, resulting in some of the rhythmic indie pop in the market. While relatively new in comparison to The Temptations Review (forming in 2004), the duo boasts a small but comprehensive catalogue that blends the sounds of contemporary pop with electronic bliss.

To understand their full potential, take a listen to their 2012 creation, “Lightning,” which contains pieces like the catchy, summer-drenched “It’s Alright” and the the almost pop-punk sounding “Much Too Late.” The duo also released their new album in April titled “Hey Now,” which is a necessary innovative step for the sonic architecture of the band.

Whether you’re a full-fledged fan or a casual listener, Matt and Kim have the backbone to create some of the catchiest pieces that reflect their humble beginnings in the streets of Brooklyn. While the show is still more than a month away, take in as much of this band as possible and then desensitize yourself for an otherworldly experience.

The Temptations Review featuring Dennis Edwards

The music of The Temptations has come to define the American motown culture of the 1960s with hits such as “My Girl and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg.” Their songs are known throughout the world and span generations of listeners.

While the group still performs with only Otis Williams remaining from the original lineup, The Temptations Review has become the quintessential cover band as they preserve the meticulous edge of the original troupe. The Review also features Dennis Edwards, an original “Temptation” from the period of 1968 to 1989.

The band also features notable singers including David Sea, Mike Pattillo, Chris Arnold and Paul Williams Jr., son of the original “Temptation” Paul Williams Sr. Together, their style exudes the same swagger that captured audiences around the world during the 1960s.

Matt and Kim (above) perform at Voodoo Festival.

DANCE twirls its way to the Walsh Art Gallery

By Juliana Sansonetti Assistant Vine Editor People typically think of dance as movements and action, but the DANCE exhibition at the Walsh Art Gallery at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts will showcase dance through a different medium — visual art.

Photographs, paintings and even sculptures will be featured in the gallery.

Philip Trager, an internationally renowned photographer from Fairfield, Connecticut who has published a book of photographs of dancers, will have photos on exhibit.

His photographs, although stationary, exude the movement and energy of dance.

They are beautiful visual representations and are sure to make the exhibitions entertaining.

Even more exciting, some of the photography of Philip Trager that will be featured was taken right pus. here on camPaintings from Jane Sutherland and sculptures from Marc Mellon will also be display.

Sutherland, also a Fairfield artist of national recognition, had done a series of paintings and drawings based on Edgar Degas’ “Little Dancer of Fourteen Years” sculpture.

This is a clever way to incorporate Degas, arguably the most famous artist to visualize dance, in the exhibitions.

Sutherland’s paintings bring his work to life.

Mellon, whose sculptures will be featured, is a nationally-renowned sculptor from Fairfield County who has done a series of sculptures in bronze of dancers.

Along with the works of these artists being displayed, there will be a series of performances at the Quick Center that will focus on dance, such as performances by David Dorfman Dance and the dance talents of Ronald K. Brown, an acclaimed performer who combines traditional African dance with more contemporary choreography.

With works by gifted artists like Mellon, Sutherland and Trager, along with the additional performance component, the exhibitions are sure to be beautiful, unique and entertaining.

Carey Mack Weber, the museum and collections manager of Fairfield University Museums, spoke on the difficulties of expressing dance in a visual way.

“Each of the artists in the exhibitions definitely expresses it differently. Dance is a physical expression, and visual art is static, so it is a challenge that each of these artists had to deal with.”

According to Weber, this is the first time that the Walsh Art Gallery and the Quick Center have collaborated.

“We’re very excited about the collaboration with the Quick Center,” Weber added.

“We’ve never done that before in the history of the Walsh Art Gallery or the Quick Center.” “[The Quick Center] has come up with some great dance programming, we’re going to have some gallery talks with the artists and there’s an OVF lecture with Judith Jamison of Alvin Ailey fame. It’s going to be a fall full of dance,” Weber mentioned with excitement.

The collaboration came about with the ideas of the former Director of University Museums Jill Deupi, who was inspired by the works of Trager, Sutherland and Mellon.

“Jill had the great idea to put these three artists together and explore how each of them looked at dance through their work,” said Weber.

After this, Weber collaborated with Assistant Director of Programming and Audience Development at the Quick Center Lori Jones to expand the exhibitions to the Quick Center programming.

Weber is hopeful that the DANCE exhibitions will be more popular than Walsh Gallery exhibitions in the past which, unfortunately, have not been well attended by students.

W h e n asked about the low attendance rates, Weber commented, “We’re not sure why there’s not more student interest in the exhibitions. We’re not sure whether it’s that they don’t know about them, that we’re not reaching them with our promotional materials, or whether they’re truly not interested. I would like to think that they just don’t know about them.”

Weber added, “The nice thing about the Gallery being in the Quick Center is that it’s always open an hour before any of the performances there, so if you’re going to the dance performances you can also go and see the exhibitions.”

There will be an opening reception on Sept. 17 from 6-8 p.m., which will be free to the public.

Artist oratories will take place from September to November featuring Jane Sutherland on Sept. 21, Philip Trager on Oct. 21 and Marc Mellon on Nov. 10.

The exhibition will run Sept. 18 to Jan. 15.

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

The Vine

ashionably

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by Nicole Funaro

The first week of the fall is complete, and with September fully upon us, it’s time to start thinking about how to dress for the upcoming autumn weather. But there’s no need to run out and purchase a brand new wardrobe to prepare for the cooler temperatures. With just a few simple additions to your already existent wardrobe, you’ll be able to seamlessly transition your summer looks into autumn-ready ensembles faster than the falling leaves.

A simple solution for guys and girls alike to take your summer tops well into the fall months is to add a light outer layer to your outfit. For guys, you can pair a lightweight cardigan or plaid button down with your go-to summer tee, allowing you to extend the life of your summer clothing well into the fall months. Ladies have a few more playful options, including denim jackets, classic button-down sweaters and even lightweight duster jackets (jackets with a hemline that typically falls at the knee), all of which will provide just enough coverage to keep you warm in the dropping temperatures.

Footwear always poses problems with the changing weather, but slip-on shoes for guys and girls easily solve this issue. Guys, look for styles in neutral canvas or leather that will easily pair with everything from shorts to jeans. For girls, you can shop for styles ranging from leopard print canvas to perforated leather done in neutrals like black to pseudo-neutrals like blush.

Everyone needs a light jacket heading into the fall months, and there is no jacket better for the fall months than a utility jacket. These jackets are usually made of light cotton blends and are complete with pockets perfect for storing everything from your StagCard to your phone. Utility jackets can carry you deep into the cooler months, easily pairing with your heavier winter sweaters.

With these easy additions, you’ll be able to take your favorite summer styles straight into the fall without splurging on a whole new wardrobe.

Don't 'Fear The Walking Dead'

By Patrick Kiernan Editor-in-Chief Following the widespread success of the critically acclaimed AMC original, “The Walking Dead,” show writer Robert Kirkman created a spin-off series entitled “Fear The Walking Dead,” which premiered on August 25.

Like its predecessor, “Fear The Walking Dead’s” pilot episode turned in ratings that were sky-high, receiving 10.1 million viewers and an incredible 6.3 rating among adults 18-49, according to Entertainment Weekly.

The immediate popularity of this show made it the biggest series premiere in cable TV history in both total viewers and key demos.

Though it may be easy to perceive this show as nothing more than an imitation of “The Walking Dead” with a cheesy, unoriginal title, the new rendition delves into new elements of the ‘walker’ apocalypse that the original never could: where it all began.

“Fear The Walking Dead” follows two families connected by a stepfather, Travis Manawa, as they attempt to survive what is the beginning of the zombie apocalypse.

Though only two episodes have aired thus far, they show great promise into what the rest of the series could contain in terms of how the recurring cast interacts and deals with the new world they are forced to live in.

Though this plot line may seem boring because, well, what’s a zombie show without zombies, the viewers were thrown into a precarious situation right from the opening scene of the premiere episode.

After another drug-crazed rave, Nick Clark wakes up in an abandoned church and hears a noise in the distance that he believes to be a friend of his.

This friend turns out to be the first zombified human shown on the show, freely carving out the stomach of another raver with her teeth.

After escaping a frightful situation, Nick returns to his mother, Madison Clark, and Travis to tell them of his eventful morning.

Because of his history with drugs, they both throw his comments aside.

However, later in the episode, the three of them are faced with Nick’s drug dealer, who has been infected as well. Now knowing that the threat they face is real, Madison gathers up Nick and her daughter, Alicia, while Travis ventures to rescue his ex-wife and son, Liza and Chris.

As the couple separates to gather their respective family members, the zombie threat becomes increasingly real.

News reports quickly surface about infected humans, the zombies’ quick growth and the fact that they cannot be killed like normal humans.

By the end of the second episode, most of the main characters have interacted with at least one of the zombies, and understand just how serious of a threat this poses to their way of life.

The third episode will premiere this Sunday at 9 p.m., and there will be a total of six episodes in the first season.

So, as these two episodes have shown, though one might perceive this show as an incessant spin-off intended to do nothing but rake in ratings, the potential is there to portray an epic vision of what facing an apocalyptic zombie disaster would be like.

There are a number of questions the show keeps floating around, with the main one being “Where did they come from?”

What exactly happened that caused humans to so suddenly become zombified? Is there some sort of rampant flu or virus spreading around? What is it about their genetic makeup that doesn’t allow them to be killed with anything other than a head wound?

Whatever it is, the production team has done a fantastic job of keeping viewers in the dark about the answer to such questions.

The rest of the season ought to prove as telling toward the truth that has been requested ever since “The Walking Dead” first premiered in 2010.

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THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

The Vine

Stags Abroad: adjusting to a new home

By Danielle Saitta Abroad Columnist There is excitement and anxiety that comes with the first week of every new school year. For many Stags on campus, the biggest concern of the week might be where the first party of the weekend is. Freshmen who are new to the school may be concerned with how to find a companion to eat with in Barone. However, for abroad students this semester, starting out this week has become a challenge as we are not only adjusting to a new school year, but new countries.

When I first stepped out of the plane after arriving in Florence, I realized that I was officially in a different country. Everything around me was unfamiliar. The air, the heat and the entire scenery was incredibly different from what I was used to. It was exciting, but also terrifying in a way. The tap water tastes different, the destinations take longer to get to and of course, most people don’t speak English. I began to question if it was only me who felt a bit overwhelmed this first week. It gave me relief to talk to some other abroad students and learn that they, too, were having similar feelings.

Junior Becky Hyatt found that the adjustment to Florence was a mix of emotions. “On the one hand I was very excited to be here and meet lots of new people and experience the new culture and food. On the other hand, learning how to adjust yourself to a new culture, with new cultural norms and a new language was definitely tough the first few days.” Hyatt continued, “To find your way around and try to not get lost can be a bit frustrating. Once you get the hang of it as we are now, it becomes easier for sure.”

For some study abroad students, the whole experience of adjustment seems similar to the first week of freshman year of college. “Honestly, the first day was a bit hard because I didn’t know anybody and I felt like I had to start over. Once I burst out of my shell, I finally met so many great people and I’ve been hanging out with them ever since,” said Sylvia Navarro ’17, who is studying in Prague this fall.

Despite how tough the adjustment can be, Fairfield has done a great job of comforting their students and creating a helpful and exciting program. Junior Will Martorano, who is studying in Florence, had this to say about the program: “At first, I was kind of nervous because I’ll be in Europe for the entire semester, but Fairfield and Florence University of the Arts have made it very easy to transition.”

With all the challenges Stags are facing this first week, directors from every program have done their best to hold our hands through this process. They have mapped out the best places to eat, the best sites to see and, of course, helped us work out where our classes are being held.

“The people here are amazing and the program directors are so nice and welcoming,” said Matt Parenti ’17, who is currently studying in Tanzania, Africa and finds support not only through his directors, but also through the native people around him. He personally found his transition shocking due to the large amount of poverty that there is in Africa.

“The hardest part has been trying to find out how I can help out in the community. You really want to do everything you can, but at the end of the day you still have classes and work. You have to budget your time and find something that fits in,” Parenti said.

Aside from the obvious challenges such as adjusting to a new place, new language, new time zone and new friends, students that are studying abroad have immediately immersed themselves into the cultures of their new homes. Navarro has found amusement in attending the live concerts and performances that Prague has to offer. “I love this city and all the music it brings. I can never get bored here. There is so much to do and see,” said Navarro.

“Being in a city filled with so much artwork and beauty is probably my favorite part of this experience thus far,” explains Hyatt of Florence.

Navarro advises students who are still trying to adjust by saying, “Do what you want. Just because others might not want to go somewhere you want to go, that shouldn’t stop you from going.

Juice the time you have! I certainly am.”

The best comparison I can make of my first week in Florence is a repeat of my freshman year.

Everyone is going out to party the week before classes. Everyone is texting their friends and families often. However, the main difference between studying abroad and freshman year is that there is a difference in responsibility. When you are a freshman, you are put into an orientation group, you have meals provided for you in Barone and you have RAs in your building to help you adjust to the new setting. The most difficult part of studying abroad so far is the wake-up call of growing up. No one will be able to prepare you for this feeling when you leave your own country. I think that the best part to come from this experience is that you will become more mature, more appreciative of the world and more independent.

Inkwell Spotlight 'Shadows'

By Marc Lee Executive Editor at The Inkwell

As the wheels turned slowly forward, the slim beam of moonlight twinkled against the spinning spokes.

It shattered as it shone through and reflected in shadow across the asphalt street.

The dark shapes flew as they danced in shifting circles, curving with the road and the clouds above.

But as the moonlight was covered over by the sky, the shadows faded back to black in the night.

The rider pedaled on, oblivious to the night, the cloud, and the shadow.

The curving road reflected his winding thoughts as the gears clinked and the chain rattled.

The thoughts of memories, fading in his mind and of hopes, lost to passing time, haunted him.

And the ghosts, who drove him in his sorrow, rose in howling silence to rage within his mind.

'Peace of Mind'

By Marina Lindland Marketing Editor at The Inkwell In times of war, you will always find peace May it be blazing guns or endless hunger Light will eclipse the dark In a world where men destroy and women scream When children cannot find a bed to sleep In times of war, you will always find peace Butterflies flutter from rose to rose Young ones smile at their vibrant hues Light will eclipse the dark

When bombs burst in countries afar The soothing glow of the sun will break through the smoke In times of war, you will always find peace

The tires screeched and the handles turned as the boy on the bike turned down a root ridden path.

Each branch and leaf reached for him crying out in nature’s song.

But his eyes faced forward, his resolve stood set, and the bike sped forward up towards the ledge.

The path grew wider and soon it opened to the grass filled field, hissing from newly falling rain.

After storms enrage the swirling seas Colors of the sky touch the calming waters Light will eclipse the dark

The wet grass flattened as footstep and tire tread across it, but the boy paid no mind as he passed.

And soon he came to the clearing’s edge and left the bike as he gazed down at the valley below.

The blue of a nearly dawning sky glowed softly behind the rain clouds’ black girth.

Yet from the blue he saw the outlines of the town and the trees, the flowers and the hedges of his view.

For those who walk their road alone Hearts have no need to be heavy In times of war, you will always find peace Light will eclipse the dark

Tears flowed from his eyes as the ghosts inside battled with the beauty of the night.

Despair and loneliness swirled with smiles and laughter, playing the sound of life’s doubt and wonder.

He yelled into the distant wind, but only he could hear.

He fell to his knees, but only he could see.

The chaos within his head crescendoed to a peak, as the ghosts’ laughter echoed from phantom voices.

The boy stood as the ghostly gleam entered his eyes, and he walked to the edge to see it one last time.

But before the ghosts could push him forward, he noticed the shadows begin to dance.

Upon the horizon, a rising sun was beginning to blaze.

It burned and shone as the trees all around grew into a morning shade.

And the boy turned to see their eddying circles curving with the rise of the light.

They turned him and twirled him as his eyes spun and finally they left him facing out again.

But, as he watched, this time he saw the most beautiful of morning skies.

And in its canvas of colors and warmth he was reminded of a smile which could melt his heart.

So back down the hill he flew with wheels spinning as fast as spreading fire.

And past the old streets he cruised with blinding speed towards the people he loved.

For now he was a beacon of hope because, at last, a memory had helped him survive the night.

Coffee Break

THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

Page 12

COFFEE BREAK Editor: Allison White

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

“How many turkeys will it take to scare off the freshmen?”

“My room is actually a functioning sauna.”

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

“Rock those khakis.”

“Is it syllabus week without a ‘sylly’ Instagram pic?”

“Nothing makes me happier than nuggets in Barone. And no, I’m not talking about the freshmen.”

“If the RecPlex isn’t ready soon, I’m going to gain the sophomore 16.”

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

Stags Trivia

College Word Search

1. When was The Mirror first started?

2. When is Lucas the Stag’s birthday?

3. How did Lucas get his name?

4. How many acres of land does Fairfield University consist of?

5. How long has Father von Arx been president?

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

Assignments Professor

Fraternity

calculus

scholarship

dean

Homework

freshman grad

lecture

school

hall

library

Sports

Page 13

THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

SPORTS

Sports Editor: Alfredo Torres » sports@fairfieldmirror.com

NFL preview: Brady back to defend championship

By Morgan Rosemann Contributing Writer It has been an extremely eventful offseason for the NFL, headlined mainly by Tom Brady and the New England Patriots’ now-famous Deflategate scandal.

After the Pats pounced on the Indianapolis Colts in the 2015 AFC Championship 45-7, the NFL investigated the Patriots for allegedly using underinflated footballs during the game.

The league mandates that footballs be inflated to 12.5-13.5 pounds per square inch (PSI). It was reported that the footballs the Patriots used were 12 PSI. According to private investigator Ted Wells’ report, Brady knew that the team equipment managers had deflated their footballs before the game.

Based on those findings, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell suspended Brady for the first four games of the season, fined the Patriots organization $1 million

and took away the team’s first and fourth round draft picks for the 2015 draft.

Brady appealed his suspension, which Goodell then denied. The decision was eventually taken to court, with Brady and the NFL Players Association suing the NFL to overturn their decision.

After a month in court, it looked as if no settlement would be made, dragging Deflategate on even longer. But, that all changed last week.

Federal Judge Richard Berman erased Brady’s four-game suspension on Sept. 3. According to ESPN, Berman claimed that Goodell’s punishment was too harsh, and criticized Goodell for “dispensing his own brand of industrial justice.”

Brady received an outburst of support from Patriots Owner Robert Kraft, and from numerous players around the league. It took a little more than eight months, but it looks like Deflategate finally

came to a long-awaited end.

Now that the Patriots know they will have their four-time Super Bowl Champ as quarterback for the entire season, it’s safe to say the Pats have a very good chance to defend their title despite losing star cornerback Darrelle Revis to their division rival New York Jets.

Speaking of the Jets, they kept themselves relevant this offseason by going on a free agent spending frenzy, adding cornerback tandem Revis and Antonio Cromartie, who played for the Jets together from 2010-2012.

They also picked up All-Pro receiver Brandon Marshall in a trade. But despite new leadership under rookie Head Coach Todd Bowles, things don’t seem to change for the Jets.

Quarterback Geno Smith was punched in the face by exteammate IK Enemkpali during training camp, causing him to break his jaw.

Additionally, Pro Bowler

Sheldon Richardson was suspended four games for violating the league’s substance abuse policy, and on top of that was arrested for a number of charges. Richardson is awaiting further punishment.

The AFC East should be extremely competitive with all four teams making significant roster upgrades.

With the Jets and Patriots making improvements, the Miami Dolphins signed defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh to a 6-year, $114 million contract.

In Buffalo, ex-Jets head coach Rex Ryan now leads the way, having picked up running back LeSean McCoy and receiver Percy Harvin.

In the NFC East, the Philadelphia Eagles made a lot of noise with some big trades, adding linebacker Kiko Alonso and former No. 1 overall pick quarterback Sam Bradford.

Like their cross-town rival the Jets, the New York Giants suffered

some negative attention when AllPro defensive end Jason PierrePaul had to get his right index finger amputated in a fireworksrelated accident.

America’s team, the Dallas Cowboys, look to build on last season’s success as they just recently locked in star receiver Dez Bryant to a 5-year, $70 million extension.

And finally, it hasn’t been easy if you’re a Redskins fan; the team named quarterback Kirk Cousins the starter for this season, not Robert Griffin III. RGIII looks to be on his way out of the nation’s capital, as the organization has shown no support for their once-labeled franchise quarterback.

The season starts Thursday, Sept. 10, as Brady and the Pats host Ben Roethlisberger and the Pittsburgh Steelers in Foxborough, Massachusetts. It should be another thrilling football season for us fans to enjoy.

Accomplishments of the week: Freshman Ariane Von Schenck of the field hockey team was named Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week after scoring a goal and two assists in her first career game in a 6-2 victory over Colgate.

Junior Dominic Marshall of the men's soccer team was named MAAC Offensive Player of the Week after scoring two goals against the University of Maryland-Baltimore Country as the Stags finished the game tied 2-2.

This week in sports: Friday, September 11

Sophomore Megan Theiller of the women's volleyball team was named the MAAC Player of the Week after leading the Stags to a 2-1 record over the weekend at the Fairfield Invitational. She recorded a double-double in all three matches as she notched 17 kills and 11 digs against Holy Cross, followed by 14 kills and 11 digs against Boston College and 16 kills and 13 digs against New Hampshire.

Men's Golf at Ryan T. Lee Memorial Tournament, All Day Women's Tennis at Stony Brook Invitational, All Day Women's Field Hockey vs. UC Davis, 4 p.m.

Women's Soccer vs. Rhode Island, 7 p.m.

Fairfield men's soccer traveled to the Sunshine State over the weekend to take on two of Florida's powerhouses. Fairfield started the road trip with a 2-1 loss this past Thursday to Florida International University. After Fairfield scored the game's first goal, FIU battled back to score two goals and take home the victory. Fairfield then traveled to battle against Florida Atlantic University on Sunday, Sept. 6. Down one, Ben Wignall '18 tied the game in the 78th minute and then set up the game-winning goal to Justin Lewis '16 to pick up a 2-1 victory.

Women's Volleyball at Penn, 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, September 12 Women's Golf at Tignanelli Towson Invitational, All Day Women's Volleyball at Towson, 1 p.m.

Photos contributed by Sports Information Desk

In this week's issue...

-Downing '07 to join U.S. Men's Indoor National Team (Page 14) -Field hockey takes on two top 20 teams (Page 15) -Women's soccer battles to defend home court (Page 16)

Women's Volleyball at Delaware State, 4:30 p.m.

Men's Soccer at Northeastern, 6 p.m.

Monday, September 14 Women's Soccer vs. Holy Cross, 6 p.m.

Baseball at Massachusetts, 3 p.m.

Sports

Page 14

THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

Greg Downing '07 to join 2015 U.S. Men's Indoor National Team

By Alfredo Torres Sports Editor Fairfield University men’s lacrosse great Greg Downing ‘07 was selected among 23 players to participate in the 2015 U.S. Men’s Indoor National Team, as announced by U.S. Lacrosse.

Downing spent his collegiate career at Fairfield University starting in 2004 until his graduation in 2007. In his first year at Fairfield, Downing averaged 2.36 points per game as he finished with 33 points, 10 assists and 23 goals for the season to earn Rookie of the Year in 2004 by the Great Western Lacrosse League.

In his sophomore campaign, Downing improved dramatically as he earned more playing time and increased his play as he averaged 2.88 points per game to finish the season with a total of 46 points, 14 assists and 32 goals.

Behind Downing’s great play, the Stags finished the season 11-5 and went on to the Great Western Lacrosse Championship and the National Collegiate Athletic Association Men’s Lacrosse Championship Tournament.

After a breakout year, Downing was recognized as he was named to the All-Great Western Lacrosse League First Team and the AllNew England Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association First Team.

Heading into both the 2006 and 2007 season, Downing was selected for the Tewaaraton Trophy Preseason Watchlist, which is given to the nation’s most outstanding NCAA lacrosse player.

Although the Stags struggled to

Contributed by Sports Information Desk

pick up wins that season, Downing continued to work hard to improve every facet of his game and lead his teammates.

Downing continued to improve year by year, especially in his third year at Fairfield which earned him the Great Western Lacrosse League Offensive Player of the Year at the end of the season and All-Eastern College Athletic Conference First Team Honors, which he received this same honor

the following season.

Downing ended his Fairfield career on a good note as he had yet another solid season and became an United States Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association All Star.

Once again, Downing was named into the All-New England Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association first team for the second time in his career.

After his career as a Stag was over, Downing became the first-

ever Stag to be chosen in the Major League Lacrosse Collegiate Draft as the sixth overall pick by the Los Angeles Riptide in 2007 and remains Fairfield’s only first round pick in program history.

Downing was also selected in the fourth round in the 2007 National Lacrosse League expansion draft by the Boston Blazers.

In 2013, Downing received a huge honor as he was inducted into the Fairfield Alumni Associa-

tion Athletic Hall of Fame.

Downing is now a member of the Boston Cannons of Major League Lacrosse and with the Georgia Swarm of the the National Lacrosse League.

Downing and Team USA will compete in the Federation of International Lacrosse World Indoor Championship from Sept. 18-27 in Onondaga Nation and Syracuse, New York.

Your 2015-2016 4x5 Columnists:

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

Patrick Kiernan Editor-in-Chief

Alfredo Torres Sports Editor

First week at Fairfield, how's it like being back?

October baseball is near, any picks to win it all?

Any Fairfield athletic teams to look out for this season?

Ready for the FUSA fall concert?

NFL football is back and so is Tom Brady, what are your thoughts?

It's been an unreal week living at the beach. Weather's been beautiful, but my Irish self still manages to burn to a crisp nearly every time I step outside. (P.S. My beef with Jesse will continue even though she's in Florence.)

The Yankees, of course. Brett Gardner's going to be the World Series MVP and bat around .400 for the entirety of the playoffs. I'll take bets on it, so come find me in The Mirror office.

I like how the women's basketball team looks for the winter. Gonna be tough without Felicia running point, but a lot of good young pieces to complement Schatzlein in the starting five.

All I'm gonna say is that Matt and Kim's "Daylight" has become my jam. My lady jam. (Please get the Pitch Perfect reference, or this will be really weird.)

Tom Brady is going to suffer an ill-fated season-ending injury, and Jason Pierre-Paul will break the record for sacks in a season with only nine fingers.

Great to be back! New room, new building, but most importantly AC! No more going through sweat drenched shirts, oh yeah and class is good too.

Yankees! We do it big in the Bronx, Teixeira should be back and launching homers all over the house that Jeter built. Don't forget pitching, Tanaka & Betances are literally going to strike everybody out. Go Yanks!

Women's basketball is just one step away, after coming close to championship glory last season in the MAAC Tournament. Patience and leadership will be the key this year as we have a couple of new faces to look out for.

Who's performing again?

Super Bowl Sunday! I cant wait for all the wings!

Honestly, I'm just excited to see what all the new talented athletes will bring to Fairifeld and our athletic program.

I mean it's free so it can't be all that bad ... right?

Probably going to get a lot of flack for this, but I don't really care about Tom Brady. So he may or may not have deflated some ballsmaybe now he'll have a deflated ego (though being married to Giselle I doubt that).

You should always look out for Fairfield's women's soccer team that I will miss dearly this season.

(GO CASS!)

So it was FUSA that was able to set up this Dave Matthews Band concert in Florence. Nicccccce FUSA, way to go this year.

Tom Brady is football. Without Tom Brady, there is not football.

Well I didn't even want to go to my New York Mets! We've got our first class so I guess you can say the captain back, Cespedes is proving his worth, and the whole team is Meaghan Conlon senior-itis is already settling in. really stepping it up. I'd say Flores' Executive Editor tear-streaked face really gave them the boost they needed. Let's go Mets!

Jesse Erickson Absent in Italia

Uh everyone was speaking Italian and I almost got hit by a moped and my StagCard won't work.

Ciao!

Are the Red Sox still in the MLB? Don't you have to win to stay there?

Sports

Page 15

THE MIRROR | Week of September 9, 2015

Women's field hockey drops two against top 20 teams: Friday: Three goals in the second half crush Stags

By Alfredo Torres Sports Editor

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror

Coming off a 6-2 victory against Colgate University in the home opener, the Stags looked to defend their home field as they were set to host the Delaware Blue Hens on Friday, Sept. 4. This is only the second time that the Stags have faced off against Delaware, as they lost last season 2-1. But after a strong first half, Delaware exploded to score three goals in the second half to give the Blue Hens the win.

The contest started with a bang as Ann Burgoyne ‘17 scored the first goal two minutes into the game and the Stags quickly led 1-0. Delaware answered with a goal of their own as they scored less than two minutes after Fairfield. Meghan Winesett of Delaware received a pass from freshman midfielder Kiki Bink to score the goal to tie the game at one.

The intensity increased dramatically as both teams battled to score, going for long stretches that consisted of great and tough defense.

“This team is very intense and they really want to do well. They have set some pretty high goals for themselves and I know they’re all extremely disappointed that today did not go the way they had planned,” said Head Coach Jackie Kane.

The Stags finished the half strong as they had a total of four saves in the

first half to go into halftime with a tied score.

Both teams started the second half strong as they battled on the field to limit one another. Soon enough, Delaware’s senior forward captain Jacki Coveleski was able to break through the Stags tough defense to score and take the lead with 27:24 remaining in the game. The Delaware offense did not stop there as they scored once again less than three minutes later. Delaware now led 3-1 with less than 25 minutes left in regulation.

After allowing two consecutive goals, Kane told her team “to pull it together, stick to the gameplan, to keep working hard and working for each other.”

The Stags continued to fight looking to score, but with less than five minutes remaining in the game, the Blue Hens were able to connect again as Emmeline Oltmans registered her first career goal to give Delaware a 4-1 lead.

After the game, Kane said, “We need to take care of the ball, we’re very good at it. I guess today didn’t go our way. It’s unfortunate, but it’s a learning experience. It’s only our second game of the season so we’re just going to keep improving, learning from our mistakes, looking forward to another opportunity to play a top 20 team.”

Sunday: Stags held scoreless against Michigan

By Alfredo Torres Sports Editor The Fairfield Stags looked to bounce back after suffering a tough loss at the hands of the Delaware Blue Hens on Friday as they were set to host another top 20 ranked team in the Michigan Wolverines.

Fairfield played their third consecutive home game of the season, but was unable to score a goal as Michigan picked up the 4-0 victory.

Both teams started the game battling one another, defending well and struggling to score a goal.

The game was held scoreless through the majority of the first half, until Michigan forward Courtney Edge converted on the team’s second penalty-corner opportunity. Michigan took the lead and never relinquished it as they led 1-0 heading into the half.

Michigan picked up right where they left off by scoring another goal just 1:36 into the second half as the Wolverines were able to score the game’s second goal.

After another penalty corner opportunity, Fairfield’s goalkeeper Caitlin Bennett ‘17 was able to save the goal, but Michigan regained possession and Lauren Thomas carried the ball towards the left side of the circle and sent a long cross-cage reverse shot from the scoring arc to score her first goal of the season.

Less than 10 minutes after Michigan scored their second goal of the game, they scored yet

another goal after a Fairfield turnover. The Stags were forced to call a timeout in hopes of regrouping.

Coming out of the timeout, the Stags seemed poised to make a comeback as Ruth Smalbraak ‘19 centered a penalty corner that found Julie de Paeuw ‘17, who shot just wide of the cage.

Michigan answered by scoring their fourth and final goal of the game minutes after as they finished the game 4-0.

“I was really proud of how we played, the heart and intensity.

They did score more in the second half, but that’s because we left ourselves exposed because we were pushing so hard to get the ball in the net,” said Head Coach Jackie Kane.

Kane expects her team to bounce back and show the same energy and toughness from the previous games against top-20 ranked teams Delaware and Michigan.

She said, “[The] Michigan coach was not happy being outhustled by us. We were out-hustling Michigan, so if we play with the same intensity, keep playing structured hockey against teams that aren’t ranked in the top 20, our results should be a lot different.”

The Stags are back in action this Friday, Sept. 11 as they host University of California Davis at University Field at 4 p.m.

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror

SPORTS 16

@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports

Sports Editor: Alfredo Torres » sports@fairfieldmirror.com

Week of September 9, 2015

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror

Women's soccer swept in weekend games

By Travis Day Contributing Writer

FRIDAY The Stags dropped their third straight contest of the 2015 season at Lessing Field on Saturday, falling to the Towson Tigers 2-0.

The young Fairfield squad came up against a fast, physical Towson side which controlled the midfield and constantly pressured the Stags' defensive third.

“We had eight freshmen in the starting lineup today,” Fairfield Head Coach Jim O'Brien said. “In the second half we put nine on the field. We always want to win the games, but at the same time we want to get the players the experience they need.”

Neither side was able to to seriously threaten the other in the opening stages, with possession split evenly and no real goal-scoring chances.

Towson struck first with an open-net goal at the 14:38 mark. Fairfield goalkeeper Jenna Pike ‘18 charged to clear a ball at the edge of her 18-yard box, colliding with a teammate which sent her to the ground.

The ball fell to Tigers' freshman forward Katie Fullerton just outside the box who easily tucked it away for a 1-0 lead.

The Tigers settled into a much more threatening rhythm following their goal, barely allowing the Stags possession in Towson’s side of the field. They would punish a Fairfield mistake again as senior defender Vasthy Delgado split two defenders and went to ground, drawing a penalty at the 5:53 mark.

Pike guessed correctly to her right side, but Delgado confidently drilled her shot into the top left to give Towson a 2-0 lead which they took into halftime.

The Tigers controlled the possession and offense after the opening minutes, outshooting Fairfield 7-1 in the opening 45 minutes.

The second half saw a much stronger showing from O'Brien's side, putting pressure on the Towson goalkeeper Taylor Sebolao, but unable to come away with a goal.

Freshman forward Jenny Jacobs, who came away with a game-high three shots for Fairfield, forced a narrow near-post save from Sebolao at the 34:38 and again at 28:35.

Although the Stags continued to threaten

the Tigers' net, this was as close as they would get, and the game ended 2-0 in favor of Towson.

“These games that we've dropped thus far are ones that a younger team is going to have some growing pains with,” said O'Brien.

“Anybody that's asked me over the past year after last year's class graduated, I always have the same answer for them: We're going to be good and we're going to be young.”

While Fairfield's offense impressed in the second half with 11 shots compared to just one in the first, the Tigers still held the advantage on total shots 18-12. Towson managed to keep the pressure on the Stags net with seven corner kicks.

Pike made five saves in the second 45 minutes for six total for the match, while Fairfield forced five saves from Towson's Sebolao in the second half after forcing none in the first.

“We want them to take away that even though they were down 2-0, they battled for the last 45 minutes,” O'Brien said. “We were aggressive and winning balls in the air, and the overall effort was there in the second half, so it's very promising to see these young players get that experience.”

The Stags drop to 1-4 while Towson improves to 2-2-1.

By Bryan Carter Contributing Writer

SUNDAY In the sixth game of the season on Sunday, one which saw both teams perform at a high level, the Bryant Bulldogs were too much for the Fairfield Stags as they picked up a 3-1 victory.

The Bulldogs scored two first-half goals, the first of which was very unlucky. The play started when a Bulldog striker sent a cross into the box. Fairfield defenders mistimed the header to clear the cross and sent it into their own net by accident.

The second goal of the match was a impressive free kick and also the first goal of the season for Bryant’s Hannah Crofut.

The blockade of Fairfield defenders was not enough to deflect or block the shot as it soared into the upper corner of the Fairfield goal.

The match was a tale of two halves as the second half of the match saw an exciting comeback attempt for the Stags. The Stags dominated play and were much more aggressive going forward.

Head Coach Jim O’Brien spoke to his team at halftime to get them more pumped

Alfredo Torres/The Mirror

up and said, “Probably can’t print it, but in the spirit of the Jesuit philosophy we struck the fear of God into them. We just told them about the concerns that we had and that we were being outplayed in every facet of the game.” With the words from O’Brien in their minds, the girls kept fighting and pressuring the Bryant backline.

Unfortunately, another unlucky goal was allowed by the Stags as Bryant’s Alyssa Riccione took a crazed shot that the Fairfield goalkeeper fumbled. The ball trickled into the back of the goal and now the Stags were looking at a 3-0 deficit with 30 minutes to go.

The only goal for the Stags was set up by a great tackle from Elena Santos ‘19. After taking the ball away from a Bryant defender, she was able turn toward the goal, but was taken down, resulting in a penalty for the Stags. Junior Anna Borea calmly converted the goal from the spot, rejuvenating hope into the tired Stags.

The Stags started to get their groove back after the goal, but the Bryant goalkeeper proved her worth every time she was called upon during the Fairfield onslaught.

The Stags were relentless in pressure, but Bryant was equally calculated in taking time off the clock and keeping the ball out of their half as much as possible. The Stags just couldn’t breakdown the Bryant defense.

In a half that saw Fairfield dominate, the time expired and the 3-1 scoreline was too much to overcome.

When asked about what the team needed to work on for next game, O’Brien said, “We have to tinker, find our way and put the right team out on the field. I made 15 substitutions today. We’ve given up very sloppy goals. We have to get better communication between our goalkeeper and our backline.”

O’Brien seemed to have a positive outlook on the games to come and the goals scored were all ones that could easily be fixed.

O’Brien had great praise for Santos who set up the only goal of the day with her pressure on the Bryant backline. “She’s got a heart of gold, a high workrate and made a big difference when we put her in there for the second half.”

Fairfield’s next game is home on Friday, Sept. 11 at 7 p.m. where the Stags will try and take down the University of Rhode Island Rams.