Fairfield Mirror 10/2/19

THE MIRROR Independent student newspaper

Week of October 2, 2019

Vol. 45 Iss. 4

President Hosts 16th Annual Ball

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Greta Thunberg

By Julia Crews News Editor

Students gathered on Bellarmine Lawn on the night of Friday, Sept. 27 at 8 p.m. for the 16th Annual Presidential Ball. Instead of last year’s layout which included two tents, one for food and tables and one for the dance floor, this year there was just one massive tent on the lawn.

The Presidential Ball is an annual event organized by the Fairfield University Student Association and formally hosted by University President Mark R. Nemec, Ph.D. The food, catered by Sodexo, included chicken tenders, french fries, the famous mac and cheese bites and more. The vivid red and blue lighting and lasers provided by GrooveBoston, which changed with Lexi Thimble/The Mirror the music and set a fun, vibrant tone for the night. Attendees were A student gets lifted by the crowd while dancing at the 16th Annual Presidential Ball at Bellarmine. invited to take a photo with Prestor of the Department of Public Safety. “The cheese bites were fantastic.” ident Nemec on the steps of Bellarmine Hall goal is for students to have fun and to be safe A few students remarked that they felt before entering the tent. Then once everyone during the course of the evening.” that it was more crowded this year than last, had entered the venue, President Nemec and “I had so much fun at Pres Ball!” said but attendance remained almost the same. his wife Suzanne made an appearance on stage Colleen Vann ‘22 via electronic message. “I “We scanned in 2513 this year of the 2800 to dance to “September” by musical artist didn’t go last year because I wasn’t sure what FUSA sold,” said president of FUSA Claire Earth, Wind & Fire. to expect, but I’m so glad I went. It was so fun Monahan ‘20 via email. “Last year 2533 [tick“All in all, Pres Ball was active but to have an excuse to dress up and then go and ets were] scanned of 2800 [that were] sold.” manageable,” said Frank Ficko, associate direc- dance with all my friends. And the mac and “I thought Pres Ball was a lot of fun but definitely more crowded than last year,” said Bree VanDermark ‘22 via electronic message.

“I think that Fairfield should continue having Pres Ball because it’s one of the events that make us unique as a college. I remember hearing about Pres Ball on my tour and was very excited to go if I decided to come here.”

Vann said, “I definitely think it’s a fun tradition that students look forward to.”

“This year’s Pres Ball was a smash hit!” said Thomas Boutros ‘20, director of programming for FUSA, via email. “We wanted to make the space more inclusive, and FUSA took the initiative to hold the event under one tent space, which appeared to go over incredibly well. Personally, we were very proud of the choice to do so, and it seemed to resonate well with the students. I think there are always improvements to be made, and we plan on sending out a student feedback survey as we always do to gather data about how students Lexi Thimble/The Mirror felt as well.”

Another photo of students dancing and having fun under the tent on Bellarmine Lawn.

Opinion Thunberg speaks the truth about climate change to world leaders.

Page 5

Volleyball Wins

Sports

Volleyball crushes Quinnipiac in three.

Page 8

Cirque Alfonso

Vine Cirque Alfonso performs highflying show “Tabarnak.”

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Theatre Program Says Goodbye to Pepsico

By Julia Crews News Editor

Students and faculty in Fairfield University’s theatre program said a tearful goodbye to the Pepsico Theater on the night of Wednesday, Sept. 25. The event was held in the theater to commemorate the flood that damaged the building to the point where it had to be closed for repairs for the remainder of the last academic year.

Now, the building has been worked on, but the theatre program will not be moving back in. Instead, the building will be repurposed for the film program.

The event began at the theater, and then traveled to the Lawrence A. Wien Experimental Blackbox Theater at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, where shows by the theatre program will now be held from here on out. From there, the participants then walked to Loyola Hall, where they were having rehearsal.

“I was hired 30 years ago to start the theatre program,” said Martha S. LoMonaco, Ph.D. in a speech to the attendees. “[Pepsico Theater] continued to be our home until one year ago today, and now I’m going to cry, when a flood took the building out,” said LoMonaco, getting emotional. “So, we had hoped in this past year to complete renovations so that we could move back in, but at some point in the spring it was decided by the administration that the building would be repurposed for the film program.”

Laura Nash, Ph.D., director of the film program said, “I don’t know the entire decision making process, but I do know that the film program must move out of Xavier this year because Xavier belongs to Prep and they have plans

for the basement, which is the film program’s current home.”

“I spent two and a half years in Pepsico before my junior year, until September 25 when we got booted out,” said Fallon Sullivan ‘20, who helped LoMonaco organize the event.

“It was like our own home. It was a space where we could come for all of our classes. We had design, we had acting. There was a coffee house so a lot of time before and after rehearsal we’d sit together Julia Crews/The Mirror and run lines, and Participants process out of Pepsico Theater holding electric candles and to the Blackbox. hang out. For our ing,” said LoMonaco.

“What made it so special was that winter projects it was ours.

For a lot of our courses you need equipment, which are independent projects, we could get there as early tools at your disposal for props and scenery as well as cosas we wanted to and stay as late as we wanted to.”

“I think the only reason why people didn’t live there Continue Reading THEATRE On Page 2 full time was because there wasn’t a shower in the build-

News

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

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Students in Theatre Move to Blackbox Continued from Page One

Julia Crews/The Mirror

tumes, makeup and more. We had that at Pepsico.”

The theater had a stage, makeup and costume shops, classrooms, and a coffeehouse. Now the theatre program is spread out while Pepsico Theater is undergoing even more renovations in order for it to be repurposed for the film program. The arrangement for the theater program involves the program rehearsing in Loyola Hall and performing in the Blackbox.

“In a newer space, or in a space that’s controlled by someone else, we have to follow their guidelines which is sometimes a little harder,” said Sullivan. “Mostly the benefit to Pepsico was it was space that was our own.”

As for how the change in scenery has affected her, Sullivan said, “Being a little displaced, we have found comfort in each other and our love of creating. But it’s definitely a little more hectic now, being more spread out. We have our costume storage in Langguth, our costume creation down at the Quick Center, we have our rehearsals up here [in Loyola Hall], and our shop is down in the Quick and our props are somewhere in a storage bin, I think, down by [Dolan School of Business].”

“Pepsico Theater was our home,” said LoMonaco.

“We are a wonderful, loving and supporting community.

The arts are resilient, and together we will carry on with our lights towards our new home. This is a fitting goodbye to a home that has been my home for thirty years.”

Dr. LoMonaco and senior Fallon Sullivan welcome participants into the Blackbox, the program’s new home.

Futures Take Flight at Career Fair

By Noelle Brown Contributing Writer

On Wednesday, Sept. 25, students at Fairfield University had the opportunity to put on their best professional attire and make their way to the first career fair of the year. This biannual event took place in the Leslie C. Quick Recreation Complex in the James W. Birkenstock Fieldhouse, with substantial turnout of both students and employers. 125 businesses and corporations participated in this university-sponsored event. Between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. students had the opportunity to speak with recruiters, employees and alumni currently working with the companies represented. Employers ranging from non-profits, service organizations and graduate schools were all in attendance.

Deirdre Bennett, manager of employer engagement and one of the organizers of the event, expressed great satisfaction at all the students who attended from the College of Arts and Sciences, Charles F. Dolan School of Business and the School of Engineering.

“We were very happy that 857 students from all classes and majors attended the Career Fair,” Bennett wrote via email. “This was a record turnout! Moving the Career Fair start time to noon proved to be more convenient for students and employers alike.”

Bennett also remarked on additional reactions from the represented employers, stating that, “The Photo taken from Fairfield University’s Flickr feedback from employers was extremely positive.

They were impressed with the professionalism of our Fairfield University students gather in the James W. Birkenstock Fieldhouse for the annual Career Fair. students and that they came prepared to make career nitely a great experience to have,” said Emma Tigue ‘22. majors, such as herself. Nevertheless, she feels confident connections.”

The event is open to all grades and experience levels. Tigue and happy she attended the event.

The career fair serves as a stepping stone for students commented, “It was a great way to network with potential Biology majors had three definitive destinations who are just beginning to network, or for those later in the employers, even as early as your sophomore year.” laid out in the pamphlet handed out at arrival, one of process looking to obtain an internship. While there are a This was Tigue’s first trip to the career fair, which which was a graduate program. While some corporations wide range of possibilities when entering this networking was prompted by the Sophomore Success course. This are open to all majors, there was a plethora of options for opportunity, each person can individualize the experience course is aimed towards helping sophomores develop a business students in all categories.

“I felt a little overwhelmed at first, but it was defistrong resume One business major who is studying accounting,

Photo taken from Fairfield University’s Flickr

A student talks with a potential employer over a table of brochures and information.

and networking skills.

However, when it came to the variety of employers attending the fair, Tigue commented, “This event definitely is catered towards the business school, just in the employers that are here today.”

“My options were quite limited in employers,” said Tigue, who hopes to attend medical school after her undergraduate studies at Fairfield, and noted a slight lack in employers seeking science

Molly Roche ‘22, encountered a robust list of employers throughout her afternoon at the career fair. “I am an accounting major and many major firms were in attendance today,” Roche noted. While expecting a primarily informational encounter with these firms, she experienced a more personable approach trending throughout her conversations.

“The recruiters, current workers, and Fairfield alumni who have worked within each firm were extremely helpful, and seemed to genuinely care,” she said. “I could tell they could relate to a degree—reflecting on days when they were trying to land an internship as well.” This approach was noted by other students conversing with similar employers and seemed to be specific to the business side of the fair, as casual conversations were struck up between recruiters and current students.

For those students who were unable to attend Wednesday’s fair, or those looking for additional options, upcoming Fairfield career offerings include specialized events such as the Law School Fair on Oct. 10 and Nursing Fair on Oct. 22, followed by another general Career and Internship Fair on Feb. 26, 2020. These events provide further opportunities for undergraduates to network and receive valuable feedback from multiple employers and schools who are seeking to connect and explore opportunities with well-qualified Fairfield students.

News

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

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The Mirror Reflects on this Week in Social Media

Compiled by Julia Crews Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.

9/26 12:06 a.m.

Odor of marijuana in the area of the Townhouses.

Student was identified to be in possession of marijuana and paraphernalia. Student was referred to student conduct.

9:10 a.m.

The Charles F. Dolan School of Business Dunkin’ Donuts reported a theft of certain supplies and condiments. The theft is under investigation.

9/27 11:19 a.m.

Student reported his vehicle vandalized on the Townhouse 6 Block. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Department of Public Safety.

9/28 1:12 a.m.

Odor of marijuana in the area of Alumni Softball Field. Student was identified and took responsibility.

Student was referred to student conduct.

10:55 a.m.

Student reported a missing laptop from a room in the Dolan School of Business. The item was later recovered and returned to the owner.

12:23 a.m.

Criminal trespass warning was issued to a nonstudent who was refusing to cooperate by not providing identification to DPS and attempting to flee.

9/30 6:02 p.m.

Motor vehicle accident occurred in the Aloysius P. Kelley Center parking lot. A graduate student notified DPS that she had struck a parked car.

THE MIRROR Incorporated 1977

Lexi Thimble, Editor-in-Chief Katherine Klima, Executive Editor Julia Monteleone, Managing Editor Editors Sheila McCombs, Chief Copy Julia Crews, News Catherine Santangelo, Opinion Gracianne Eldrenkamp, Vine Molly Lamendola, Abroad Columnist Julia Lanzillotta, Sports Tobenna Ugwu, Coffee Break Business Department Email: info@fairfieldmirror.com Michael Hoffman, Director of Finance Advisor Dr. Tommy Xie Contact Information Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, BCC 104 Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824 General email: info@fairfieldmirror.com The Mirror is the recognized student newspaper of Fairfield University. Opinions and ideas expressed herein are those of the individual student authors, and not those of the Fairfield University or its Board of Trustees

News

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

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Stags Make a New Home at Barnyard Manor

By Grace Gelep Contributing Writer

Fairfield University has completed and opened yet another construction project on campus.

This one takes living on campus to a whole new level.

The Barnyard Manor townhouses, located on the south side of campus, opened up for the first inhabitants this fall. Both junior and senior students were able to choose to live in these beautiful houses, with grey and white paint colors, big windows with sleek black window panes, porticos and peak roofing.

The inside has even more benefits, with a spacious downstairs living area with hardwood floors attached to a full kitchen with brand new white marble countertops and dark wood cabinets. These townhouses hold eight students, each with their own single bedroom. They also include two full bathrooms and a laundry room with a washer and dryer, something students may be attracted to after having to share communal laundry rooms for the majority of their time at Fairfield.

The Barnyard Manor The Barnyard Manor was a part of Fairfield University’s master plan, “Fairfield 2020, The Way Forward,’’ which launched in 2015 and included a number of construction projects of new facilities and student living over a five-year-period.

Vice President for Student Life Karen Donoghue ‘03, had the chance to be a part of the conception stage of these new townhouses.

“During the conception stage, the Director of Residence Life and myself had the opportunity to meet with the architect to talk about best practices related to student living in addition to specific requests that we had based on feedback from students over the years,” Donoghue said via email.

Donoghue’s priority was to accommodate the students of Fairfield, and make sure that they could live comfortably and lavishly in these houses.

“The number one request we asked for was single bedrooms,” Donoghue said. “Some other ideas we shared were related to individual shower/toilet rooms and big fridges!

With 8 students, we want to make sure we have the largest fridge possible.”

Donoghue thinks the Manor is an ideal place for juniors and seniors to live independently, and is just another one of the many great options students have for on-campus living at Fairfield.

Senior Jaclyn Cuculino is a current resident at the Barnyard Manor and thinks it is quite a step up from her last living space of Meditz.

“You can tell Meditz was an apartment made for college students,” Cuculino said. “It’s just very standard, like, cheap cabinets. There’s actually not that much counter space…it’s not necessarily tailored to the amount of people

Photo taken from fairfield.edu

Townhouses are located on the south side of campus and opened this semester for residents.

that lived there.”

Cuculino knows living with eight people could be a nightmare for some, but she loves it and is happy this was an option for her senior living. Cuculino feels that the new townhouses were properly built for eight people to fit comfortably there.

“There’s a lot of counter space and a lot of cabinet space, and we always had kitchen issues in our six-person so it’s nice being able to fit everyone’s stuff,” Cuculino said.

Along with having enough space, Cuculino gets the feeling that she’s in an actual house when she walks in, not just a campus townhouse. She thinks the Manor is equipped for actual real-world residents to live there.

“When you walk into the Manor, it feels like a house,” Cuculino said. “I think [real-world] people could live there.

Obviously it would look a little weird, but yeah.”

Cuculino also finds the location of the South Townhouses accommodating for her on-campus needs.

“While it may seem out of the way at first, it’s actually really centrally located compared to the other townhouses,” Cuculino said.

Although Cuculino had many positive things to say about her new South Townhouse, she has noticed that there have been some hardware problems in the house that she thinks is due to Fairfield rushing the construction.

“They had to build them so fast, so there are some construction issues,” Cuculino said. “We had a floor board that popped up, and our toilet paper holder fell out of the wall. We’re still waiting on work orders for stuff like that.”

Cuculino is hopeful that this is just an issue for these houses first guests, that future students won’t run into.

Another Fairfield senior, Sidney Sarfo, is also enjoying

his new home-away-from-home at the Barnyard Manor so far. He sees a lot of improvements in this townhouse from his living quarters in Dolan Hall last year.

“The bathrooms are a lot nicer,” Sarfo said. “The bathrooms in Dolan were a little cramped, there were only two… this one is a lot bigger.”

The location of the South Townhouses is also a benefit for Sarfo as a biology major.

“It’s a lot closer to where the majority of my classes are,” Sarfo said. “Bannow is right there, and I’ve been at the library the past two days.”

However, the location of the Manor can be unfavorable to Sarfo as a manager of both the men’s club lacrosse team and the men’s club basketball teams.

“Both practices are held in Walsh Athletic Center, towards Rafferty, which is a far walk if you’re waking up at like 7 a.m., ‘cause they practice at 7:30 a.m., so that’s kind of tough,” Sarfo said.

Like Cuculino, Sarfo has noticed some technical difficulties with his townhouse. After the first couple weeks of school, the circuit breaker in his house started acting up.

“Sometimes some of the switches will trip and one of our rooms will lose power for a little bit, but it could be worse. All we gotta do is really call facilities and they’ll turn it on.”

Despite the small maintenance problems, the Barnyard Manor is off to a great start. This new edition to the Fairfield University campus has students excited about living on campus, even as a senior. With more facilities and benefits in an on-campus house than ever before, the Manor is looking like it will be a popular destination for future students.

JUHAN Hosts Refugee Camp Simulation

By Maeve Hegley Contributing Writer

The Lower Level Barone Campus Center of Fairfield University was swarming with students on Friday, Sept. 27, all of whom were there to experience a Rohingya refugee camp.

Hosted by the Jesuit Universities Humanitarian Action Network, the Rohingya Refugee Camp Simulation was designed to facilitate awareness about the recent massive migration of Rohingya people into Bangladesh.

Julie Mughal, the associate director of humanitarian action, was in charge of the simulation.

“We thought it was important to highlight the Rohingya because they are one of the world’s ‘forgotten emergencies,’” Mughal said.

Mughal went on to explain that the people of Myanmar are escaping persecution, both religious and cultural, and fleeing across the border to Bangladesh refugee camps. The situation at present can be described as dire, she said.

Those who attended the event were greeted by students of David Schmidt Ph.D.’s ethics of humanitarian class, who were presenting the simulation. Justine Sutherland ‘20, a member of Schmidt’s class, said she was surprised by the turn out.

“I didn’t expect it to be so packed. I think it’s a good thing to show people, because there’s not enough awareness. People in my class weren’t even conscious that this crisis was happening,” Sutherland remarked.

The Lower BCC was organized into 11 stations, all depicting a different aspect of life as a refugee. At the onset of the simulation, participants were given a persona of an escapee to take on as they went around to the various tables, learning about the food, mental health, hygiene and education these camps offered. After walking through, students were asked to give their feedback on their experi-

ence.

in this. It definitely grounds you, when you know people are eating First-year Kobe Okpoti was glad to have attended the event. crickets on the side of the road and you’re just driving in your car,” From Ghana, West Africa, he said that he took part in the simulashe said. tion because he was interested in knowing more about the lives of Senior Brad Cyr was posted at the very end of the refugee refugees. camp likeness. His job was to encourage reflection of those who “It happens in Rwanda. There’s always war. I’ve seen it in partook in the experience. movies, but this is a reality for people,” he said.

“I think it gives people a better perspective of people who are Also in attendance were a number of humanitarian organizatoo often ignored and not given enough attention,” he said. tions whose missions revolved around the relocation and resources Fairfield University holds similar programs annually. In the offered to the Rohingya in the U.S. Among these were Save the Chilpast, the school has simulated a typical Syrain refugee camp. Next dren, whose focus is on creating a child-friendly space in Cox’s Bazar, semester, there are plans to recreate the experiences of evacuees from the world’s largest refugee camp. Participants were encouraged to Africa. flip through pictures drawn by young children in the camp, presenting the chaos through their eyes.

Josh Utter from the Jesuit Refugee Service was stationed towards the later half of the simulation. The JSR is based in Washington, D.C, and aims to organize, raise awareness, advocate and fundraise for the forcibly displaced Rohingya. The program employs therapists, among other services, who are trained to respond to the trauma endured by the refugees as they adjust to their new lives.

Utter spoke about how the 18,000-person cap placed on refugees in America under the current administration was affecting U.S. ability to offer assistance. The number of refugees able to be taken in by America is the lowest it has ever been.

Martine Dherte, refugee services program manager for the Connecticut Institute of Refugees and Immigrants, talked to students about how they could make a difference.

Her work centers around the relocation of refugees to Maeve Hegley/The Mirror Bridgeport, Connecticut. She is extremely passionate about her role in the refugee crisis.

Students learn about the process of registering at a camp.

“It humbles you; there is nothing to complain about

Opinion

Opinion

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

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Editor Catherine Santangelo» catherine.santangelo@student.fairfield.edu

World Leaders are to Blame if Climate Change Destroys Our Planet

By Gabrielle Arlotta Contributing Writer

Climate change: some are activists, and others believe it’s a complete hoax. Some people know about climate change, but not enough to let it impact their day to day routine. Putting aside what you know, don’t know or believe in, climate change is a hot topic with the presidential debates that have been taking place and, most importantly, because of The United Nations Climate Action Summit on Sept. 23, 2019, as reported by The New York Times.

Before the Summit, climate strikes involving young people were happening all around the world. The strikes had children out of school and to the streets on Friday, Sept. 20 and The New York Times reported, “It was the first time that children and young people had demonstrated to demand climate action in so many places and in such numbers around the world.” The strikes presented were even deemed dramatic by some. Maybe those who believe these stands are said to be dramatic, don’t truly know the damage our earth is enduring. The magnitude of these protests are crucial because these kids are making headlines with a topic that should be one every single day.

One of those protesters, Greta Thunberg from Sweden, traveled across the Atlantic Ocean by a zero emission yacht. The vessel ran on solar panels and wind turbines and brought her to the Summit in New York, CBS News reported. She traveled by these means not only to reduce her carbon footprint, but to prove a point. She didn't stop there as she delivered a speech at the summit that spoke to the world, criticizing world leaders for their inaction in protecting the environment. “The eyes of all future generations are upon you,” Thunberg said, her voice quavering with rage. “If you choose to fail us, I say we will never forgive you,” The New York Times quotes her.

Frankly, I wouldn't want to forgive them either. What else are the younger generations supposed to do when their power is obsolete compared to world leaders and industries who are destroying our home? In fact, isn’t this their job, to not just help protect the people but the very place we live in? The frustration lies with the feeling that this issue is being overlooked because

those that are doing so simply won't be around to deal with the consequences.

Thunberg is right; all eyes are on them. What Thunberg did was make those in power squirm as the 16 year old girl stood up for a cause she was passionate about fixing, while the people she looked up to didn't. The irony of what follows is that the older citizens listening were the ones acting most immature.

Since Thunberg’s speech there has been some retaliation against her. President Donald J. Trump posted on Twitter following the summit, “She seems like a very happy young girl looking forward to a bright and wonderful future. So nice to see!”

Before the Summit, CBS reports Thunberg proclaimed, “Everyone always asks about Donald Trump- ‘Listen to the science’ and he obviously does not do that. If no one has been able to convince him of the climate crisis, why would I be able to?”

It’s upsetting to see the lack of empathy for Thunberg from such high-profile people, as climate change today is vastly backed by scientific research. According to NASA, about 97 percent of scientists agree that humans are causing global warming and climate change. Thunberg poured her heart out at the Summit, and regardless of how you feel about climate change and Thunberg’s speech, it's still imperative to encourage younger generations to stand up for what's right, not push them back down.

The climate change strikes can be daunting at times for young people to see or hear about.

The Washington Post reports a 17-year-old from Texas says global warming scares him so much, he can’t even think about it. Another high-school junior worries about the floods that keep deluging his school. At that point it’s a great opportunity for parents to do research themselves and to educate their children so they won’t be scared, but inspired. It’s an opportunity to push families to create more sustainable households together and to hold each other accountable. This is where Thunberg’s blunt approach works; it Creative Commons/Wikimedia Commons creates conversation and action.

Stags Choosing Red Sea Madness Performer Would Boost Fairfield Pride under my belt, one aspect I do not understand is why the student body is left in the dark about the Red Sea Madness performance until only a few short weeks before it happens. Shouldn’t students have the right to know who is performing sooner? Based on the incredible success of As every veteran Stag knows, the beginning of the fall semester is an eventful time on last year’s performance, one could conclude that if students were to help choose an artist that Fairfield University’s campus. Students are settling in, classes are up and running and the beach they would actually want to see perform at Red Sea Madness, then they would actually attend is buzzing. Suddenly, the weeks go by and in the blink of an eye, September is over. The Presi- Red Sea Madness. dential Ball hype has left almost as soon as it had arrived, and before we know it it’s October. This During the first two months of the school year, Stags are desperate in their search for means that Red Sea Madness is right around the corner. information about the event. They pry relentlessly at the all-powerful members of Unlike suits, dresses, crazy amounts of dancing and all the other Fairfield University Students Association who are within their reach and repetitive characteristics that come along with the Presidential ask who the performer is going to be, as if they are the only indiBall, Red Sea Madness is the only campus event that holds viduals on campus who should be entrusted with the exclusive any form of uniqueness, and that is due to one trait – information as a reward for thinking of such an original the unknown. The annual mystery of who will be question. However, I’m telling you now instead of later – performing at Red Sea Madness makes the don’t bother wasting your time. With admirable strength event the one occasion of the school and determination, FUSA members will not tell you year when the students know close who is performing. They hold their posito nothing about how the night tions seriously with lips locked and are will play out. unwavering in their resilience.

However, even with Now I’m not a FUSA member, four years of knowlbut I’ll be the first to admit that e dge the work they do is hard. Choosing the “right” performer for campus is an incredible responsibility, and I can’t fail to mention the significant amount of details that take place behind the scenes to plan it. Although, in support of my fellow not in the know, non-FUSA Stags, if the association were to combat its secrecy, then the October concert would have the potential to dramatically increase Fairfield University’s pride. No matter the amount of university events, our pride always seems to be lacking on campus. No pressure here FUSA, but it all starts with giving the student body more say in the Red Sea Madness decision making process. The campus is Photo taken from fairfieldwbb/Instagram now your stage, and it is your chance to shine by saving Fairfield’s pride. Oh, how the Red Sea tides have turned.

Creative Commons/Wikimedia Commons, kisspng.com

By Kerre Lattanzio Contributing Writer

Editorial Board "The Girl with the Red Headphones" Julia Monteleone

Managing Editor

I think I’ve always felt a little lost.

Throughout my life I have had a turbulent sense of identity. There have been times where I have felt I knew exactly who I was and where I was going, and times where the weight of the uncertainty kept me in bed for days at a time.

One thing that I have always relied upon is music. The simple act of listening to music is such a large part of my day to day that I truly don’t know what I would do without it.

People on this campus know me as the girl with the red headphones. Throughout my years at Fairfield, I have made countless friends who have told me they already knew who I was by what I wear around

my neck. It is true — I don’t go anywhere without my signature red Beats.

I simply need music to go about my life. You can find me with my Beats on at the gym, walking class to class, in my room, doing homework; sometimes you can even find me asleep with them on. Music gives me a sense of direction when I feel aimless.

Music was such a large part of my life growing up, that now I attach a lot of my taste to different members of my family. I love Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin because my grandparents constantly played it. My grandfather would cry when “My Way” would play, and now I do too. My dad and brother always play “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers when we take

sunset rides on the boat. My mother listens to Natalie Cole while making my favorite meals, and when I listen to “Mona Lisa” I can see us dancing around the kitchen.

It’s therapeutic for me to put my headphones on and find the perfect song to listen to. Right now as I write it’s “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac. I’m content to be alone in my own little world with the volume too high. My parents always say it’s why I can’t hear anything (they’re probably right).

Music is probably one of the best ways to get to know me. It’s one of the best ways I have come to know myself. I think I will probably always be the girl with the red headphones, and that’s the way I like it.

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

Opinion

Page 6

Bernie Sanders: King of the Progressives

By Ali Haidar Contributing Writer

Arresting Children is Not Rational

By Kallan Hook Contributing Writer

As reported by The New York Times, a Florida school resource officer, Officer Dennis Turner, has recently come under attack after arresting two schoolchildren for separate issues. Turner, a retired police officer, works in the Reserve Officer Program to ensure the safety of students attending a local Orlando, Florida school. On Sept. 19, 2019, Turner arrested two children, one being six years old and the other being eight years old.

The younger student was said to have been arrested for kicking a school staff member during a temper tantrum. It was not disclosed what the eight year old was arrested for. According to the policies under the reserve program, in order for an officer to make an arrest to any child under the age of 12, the officer must have their supervisor’s permission. This is something that Officer Turner failed to do for both of the children’s arrests. At this time, the younger child was processed through the Juvenile Assessment Center before being released to a family member. The older student was halted in their transport to the center after it was revealed that a supervisor’s permission was not granted to the officer prior to the arrest.

The six year old was charged with assault and battery before being released to a concerned family member. While the child does deserve to be disciplined for acting out in such a violent manner, it is unnecessary for an arrest to have occurred. After all, if every child was arrested for kicking and having a temper tantrum then they would all be in a juvenile detention center. This escalation of events is not a rational reaction to a child having a tantrum. A six year old deserves ap-

propriate discipline instead of being traumatized from being placed in handcuffs.

It is not the officer’s place to inappropriately discipline a child for the behavior, especially an officer who, according to the New York Times, was charged with aggravated child abuse in 1998. If the officer is unable to care for his own child, how do they expect him to care for and protect someone else’s?

While the school has attempted to implement a rational policy of receiving supervisor's permission before arresting any student under the age of 12, the system should examine the necessity of making such arrests in the first place. Unless there are extreme circumstances, such as threatening the safety of other students and staff that exceed a temper tantrum, an elementary student should never be placed in handcuffs.

In order for children to feel safe and protected at school they need to have a resource officer who will not act out of malice. Officer Turner failed to appropriately respond in these situations, not only resulting in severe repercussions for himself, but also leading to traumatizing experiences for the children. There is no rational explanation for needing to arrest an elementary student after they had a temper tantrum, especially in knowing that no one was even injured. Rather than handcuffing a child for kicking a school staff member, he should have had a conversation with them to understand why they acted out and make sure that they know that acting this way is not acceptable. Most children act out in irrational and sometimes violent manners, but when they do, they are not arrested.

Officer Turner’s actions were radical, not rational.

There has never been a better time to be a progressive than right now. Since 2016, the Democratic party has embraced progressive ideas, many of which have come from Senator Bernie Sanders. What defines a progressive? For myself, and for many others, a progressive is someone who recognizes the failings of neoliberalism, the plague of incremental politics and cronyism, and who values left-wing social, economic and political reform for all Americans. Some examples include pushing for a single-payer healthcare system, the elimination of student debt and refusing to accept big money from powerful individuals and corporations.

There are those who complain of the various political “litmus tests” – required political positions for Democratic politicians, such as support for a Medicare for All or increased wealth taxes on the rich – but these are not without warrant.

After all, decades of political backpedaling and failed promises have enraged the American people, so why not hold politicians accountable?

In the Democratic primary, there are two candidates who either fit or come close to this definition: Senator Elizabeth Warren and Senator Bernie Sanders. While both embrace bold, progressive ideals, there are various differences between the two firebrands. So, what is the major difference between the two? Senator Warren’s progressive push is relatively recent in regards to her career, while Senator Sanders’ has been impeccably consistent and bold throughout his.

Sanders has been running on the same platform for over 40 years because his concerns have always lain with the working American man and woman. For example, in a 1988 campaign event for presidential candidate Jesse Jackson, Sanders decried the immense economic inequality of the time by saying that, “It is not acceptable to him, to me, or most Americans that 10 percent of the population is able to own 80 percent of the wealth.” His message has not changed, as seen in the last Democratic debate where NBC News reported him advocating for, “An economy that works for all of us, not the 1 percent.” His rallying cries around Medicare for All, imposing a wealth tax on the ultra wealthy and standing up to the military industrial complex are all elements that Americans, at least those who want substantial change, support. While Senator Warren has definite progressive proposals, Sanders seems to go the extra mile. For example, according to Bernie Sanders’ campaign website, he supports eliminating all medical debt, while Warren does not. Sanders has called for the elimination of all student debt, while Warren has called for some to be forgiven. Perhaps the most striking instance of this would be the nuance between the two candidates' wealth tax plan. According to Senator Warren’s campaign website, her plan would propose a 2

percent tax on household’s net worth above $50 million dollars, which would raise $2.6 trillion dollars. However, Senator Sanders recently released his own wealth tax plan, which would impose a 1 percent tax rate on net worths between $32 and $50 million, which would rise to 8 percent on net worths above $10 billion dollars. This would raise around $4.35 trillion dollars (more than half in comparison to Warren’s plan), which is extremely aggressive and quite progressive.

One does not need to look at how Sanders eclipses his opponent, as Warren’s voting record is quite controversial.

Have progressives forgotten that Warren originally voted to confirm Ben Carson, the same individual who called poverty a “state of mind, as the housing and urban development secretary?” Let’s also not forget that Warren voted for President Trump’s absurd $400 billion dollar increase in military spending for the fiscal year of 2018, as reported on the United States Senate website. What should hurt progressives the most is Senator Warren’s misleading claims that she has not accepted any money from groups that lobby on behalf of corporations, when it reality she funneled big money from her 2018 senate campaign to her 2020 presidential run. What does this say about Senator Warren? For me, this spells out her vulnerability as being impressionable and liable to any sort of political backpedaling if elected to the Oval Office.

That is not to say that Senator Warren won’t fight for progressives. As aforementioned, her tax plan, albeit lacking in some parts, would still do wonders. She’s also proven to be tough on Wall Street as evidenced by her career in the Senate, and by the fact that Wall Street bankers fear her. However, the facts are laid out, and if you are a progressive and you truly care about achieving left-wing, progressive policies, then it is clear who to support. It’s simple: Bernie is better.

Creative Commons/Wikimedia Commons, Flickr

Impeaching Trump Will Only Cause Problems for People, Peace and Politics

By Jack Martorano Contributing Writer According to The New York Times, Democratic Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi announced that the House of Representatives would be launching an impeachment inquiry into President Donald J. Trump on Sept. 25, 2019.

This sudden action on impeachment by House Democrats was caused by a whistleblower complaint concerning a phone call that took place on Jul. 25, 2019, between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. The whistleblower, whose identity is still unknown, alerted the government to the call between Trump and Zelensky. According to CBS News, after coming under fire for a lack of transparency, President Trump then released a rough transcript of the phone call.

Some view this rough transcript as evidence of wrongdoing, but in my opinion, the transcript offers no hard evidence of crimes or abuses of power by the president.

During the call, President Trump mentioned current Democratic Presidential Candidate Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden. As vice president, Joe Biden used U.S. loan guarantees to pressure Ukraine to remove an allegedly corrupt prosecutor who happened to be investigating the energy company where Hunter Biden worked, as reported in a USA Today article. Trump’s allusion to Biden made some question whether Trump was asking a foreign power to investigate his possible opponent in the 2020 election. Although these claims are relevant, I think we ought to consider that there is currently no concrete evidence that President Trump withheld foreign aid from Ukraine to pressure them into investigating Biden.

Once the news broke of this situation and the controversy erupted, I immediately thought of a letter that three Democratic Senators sent to the Prosecutor General of Ukraine in May of 2018. In this letter, according to CNN, the Senators urged Ukraine to comply with

Robert Mueller’s investigation into President Trump. I can definitely see a parallel between this letter and Trump’s call to the Ukrainian President. However, this current situation surrounding the president be-

comes very different if anyone can prove that Trump engaged in quid pro quo.

I also think that it’s worth looking at the cause for impeachment and whether the President committed treason, bribery or other high crimes or misdemeanors.

Regardless, I think that impeachment is a losing strategy for Democrats. By pursuing impeachment, Democrats may turn off independent voters who are simply looking for action on important issues facing America, such as gun violence and homelessness.

These independent voters may decide to sit out in 2020 or even vote for Donald Trump in retaliation against the Democratic Party. Furthermore, the impeachment inquiry has spurred enthusiasm among Republicans, with the Republican National Committee receiving $5 million in donations on Sept. 25 when Nancy Pelosi announced the inquiry. Republican voters are generally against impeachment and will rally around the president as he faces bold opposition from Democratic politicians, who feel that Trump must be held accountable for the alleged abuse of power.

It seems that the current controversy about the whistleblower complaint has further damaged international relations from the perspective of the United States. Since the phone call between Trump was released and dissected, other foreign leaders may be hesitant to speak to American leaders for fear of publication of their calls. In turn, this might damage any peace or economic negotiations with other countries for years to come.

Impeachment of this president will benefit almost no one, simultaneously marring international relations and stimulating further political polarization in America. Will impeachment be the breaking point for America?

Creative Commons/Flickr

The Vine Cirque Alfons e 's "Tabar n a k " Defies Gravit y

arts, entertainment, features

Editor Gracianne Eldrenkamp gracianne.eldrenkamp@student.fairfield.edu

Photo Contributed by Guillaume Morin CreativeCommons/Pixabay

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

The Vine

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Cirque Alfonse Rocks the Quick Center

By Liam Woods Contributing Writer

CreativeCommons/Pixabay

How does our reality shape our relationship with God? This is the major question that the troop made of 13 French Canadians addressed during their 75 minute performance. As the brochure so well put it: "TABARNAK is a celebration of Heaven and Hell and everything in between." While most of us develop our spiritual lives with our feet firmly planted on the ground, these performers actively defied gravity in their attempts to thrill the audience into a closer relationship with the divine. On Sunday, Sept. 29, there was a spectacular one-time showing of "TABARNAK," a Production of Cirque Alfonse in the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts. The show married rock 'n' roll with acrobatics, and is fun for all ages.

This theme was best exemplified in an act that came close to the conclusion. A stained glass window

w a s a part of the backdrop throughout the performance, which was dropped down and attached to chords extending to the ceiling. The two most talented acrobats in the troop had a dancing act set to tribal, beat driven music. The female acrobat sang along in a gospel style on the giant oscillating swing that the stained glass became. Although I didn't understand the French that was being sung throughout the show, this act was a clear climax. The two acrobats had the young boy next to me on his feet with his hands covering his mouth in amazement.

The audience consistently clapped to the beat, and clapped at the gymnastic feats.

The three musicians were the glue that held together a wide range of moods and genres over the course of the performance. The woman on the drums and the man on the keyboard were utility players, often going unrecognized, but never having their merit questioned. The guitar/fiddle player was the musician of the three that impressed me most. The man played both instruments as a virtuoso, changing between different styles with incredible dexterity. He and the two stained-glass dancers were the strongest performers in the act.

The music was unlike that of which I have ever heard. There were Native American tribal chants, mixed with rhythm and blues guitar licks, mixed with often whimsical-carnivalesque circular chord changes. During their performance, I was reminded of Miles Davis "In a Silent Way," mixed with The Beatles "Being for the Benefit of Mr. Kite." There were different times throughout the performance when different styles were more easily identifiable, but there was always an element of indescribable synergy taking place between those who were playing, those who were singing and those who were doing acrobats. The musicians knew each other well enough to play to each other's strengths. All in all, the show truly had me on the edge of my seat.

Make sure to have your tickets booked for the next time Cirque Alfonso is in town!

Photo Contributed by Audric Gagnon

Cirque Alfonse performers do gravity-defying stunts.

Mark Ambor Makes Music 'Colorful'

By Mimi Loughlin Contributing Writer

The pop artist Mark Ambor, stage name of Mark Damboragian ‘20, has really taken off.

When I first talked with Ambor six months ago, he was about to release his latest single, “Fever.” Now, “Fever” has 50,000 plays on Spotify. His next show is at The Well in Brooklyn on Oct. 3, with two artists performing before Ambor’s performance at 9:00 p.m. He will be performing songs from his latest EP, “Colorful”, which was released on Sept. 25, last week.

Recently, I interviewed Ambor again about his EP. Ambor sported an outfit which he said was “athleisure” - white shirt, black track pants with white stripes on the sides and slightly scuffed white Vans. He has a quiet demeanor paired with a slightly disarming tendency to laugh before he answers difficult questions in interviews.

After listening to Ambor’s current EP, it’s clear that he has an affinity for creating catchy, musically upbeat songs that hit home at the core of listeners’ emotions.

One of the most notable songs on the EP is “Paige.” As Ambor explained,‘“Paige” isn’t about a specific person, but about growing into adulthood, moving on from the past to face the future, and about the hope of finding someone who can support you and grow with you.”

“Paige” is also like a blank page: Ambor is writing his own future as a musician into existence with his songs.

Ambor further elaborated on “Paige” by discussing his tough transition between high school and college. He had a near idyllic existence in his hometown, but when he went to college, he had a hard time adjusting.

Ambor sings about this transition in the third verse of Paige: “Help/I’m feeling stuck/Save me from this…darkened hour… that’s hidden behind love/This old town

has held me by its strings.” These lyrics are reminiscent of the Beatles and Bob Dylan in their portrayal of the transience of the human condition.

Ambor said that he kept pushing himself to keep going, and he was able to forge true friendships at school.

He also said his songwriting process developed as a result of these friendships, as he was able to become more open and honest in his music with a strong support system of friends at school and family and friends at home.

My overall favorite song on the “Colorful” EP is “Your Perfect Memory,” because it is both upbeat and emotionally evocative, a stadium song and a song to blast when one is feeling sad over a breakup. It is a reminder that as time goes by, memories often mask the truth, hiding flaws and imperfections, leaving only perfect memories.

On “The Story We All Chase,” which Ambor said is about the stress of senior year and more broadly, the ideal of achieving the American dream, his voice is reminiscent of John Mayer and Lauv’s in “I Like Me Better.” He is writing about what many of us feel: the fear of failure, the need to succeed after graduation, the stress of finding a job.

Ambor also said that the beginning of “The Story We all Chase” touches upon the reason why he makes music at all: “I’m just kicking ‘cause I’m trying to vent.”

As Ambor said in our interview, he makes music because, “I’m trying to vent, I’m trying to make sense of all the things that bother me, confuse me, make me happy. All the things that bring about insecurity. That’s why I write music.”

You can catch Mark Ambor’s latest concert at The Well, 272 Meserole St, Brooklyn, NY, on Oct. 3 at 9 p.m.! The Well is a 21+ venue.

For more information about Mark Ambor, visit his website: https://www. markambor.com/

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

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'Rambo: Last Blood' Leaves Audience Empty

stands alone. It also doesn’t seem to require that you have seen the first four movies, as most of Rambo’s character setup for “Last Blood” is given through flashbacks of the previous entries. The set up is really sloppy, just like the rest of this movie. “Last Blood” is an odd hybrid of Liam Neeson’s “Taken” movies and “Home Alone.” An interesting combination for certain, but not one that entirely works.

Sylvester Stallone is always charismatic and is only getting better at his craft with age, but his performance here is incredibly hollow. Sure, his actions are motivated throughout the movie, but I never could get a sense of who John Rambo is outside of his motivation for revenge. He goes on a few rampages and has a few quiet moments, but nothing quite stands out. This also seems to be the movie’s major problem when it comes to certain scenes and if they belong in the movie at all. At times, it seems like “First Blood” wants to be this heroic and emotional send off to Stallone’s character, but in other moments, it wants to be a goofy, 1980s-esque bloodbath with no purpose other than having Stallone kill a bunch of people. Neither tone is established well enough, which leaves both the character and the story rather empty.

The movie’s action sequences, although few and far between, are uber violent. Sometimes, it works to the movies advantage when Rambo is exacting his revenge, but other times it comes off as unnecessarily grotesque. Specifically, a sequence early in the movie features Rambo torturing people to get information in a particularly awful way. It made me think of the character in a negative light, which absolutely wasn’t the movie’s goal. However, my one praise with this movie is its final act which is simply an R-rated “Home Alone.”

The kills in the last act are hilariously choreographed and is clearly what the director wanted this movie to be throughout. These final scenes are the only parts of the movie that have a specific type of visual flair to them, which makes it seem like this movie could have been a 20 minute short Photo Taken from @rambomovie Instagram released online.

“Last Blood” isn’t trying to do anything new, simply relying on old tricks and tactics to get people in a theater to see a tired Stallone mumble for 90 minutes.

I was surprised by how much I disliked this movie mainly because Stallone’s return to the Sylvester Stallone reprises his role as John Rambo in "Rambo: Last Blood."

“Rocky” franchise was so well done. Being a co-writer on this movie, I thought that maybe

By Tyler Zikias Stallone would have put more effort into crafting a better script for Rambo, as he did for Contributing Writer Rocky. I’m not really sure who to recommend this movie to because it really is a mixed bag.

“Rambo: Last Blood” is being marketed as Sylvester Stallone’s last hurrah as John It’s two different movies combined into one, while never really working together to make Rambo, a now ex-soldier living on a farm with his niece. I have to admit, I have yet to see something good. the first four “Rambo” movies, so I will be talking about the newest entry based on how it Grade: D+

Tales of Adventure with Lance Manion when things are too stagnant. His humor might work better if he put some reasoning behind the humor, but, on the other hand, maybe the lack of purpose Who is Lance Manion? In short, he’s the selfis the point. Not all art has to have meaning, after published author of eight “books,” which includes a all, and Manion’s seems to openly reject any sort collection of around 430 short stories, and has reof deeper connection. His writing often makes the cently published “Tales of Adventure with Nap Lapreader to fill in the blanks and requires them to have kin,” a continuous story revolving around the same a vast imagination, so the goal is possibly just to get character, Nap Lapkin. readers to think for themselves.

Well, why should you care? Realistically, and acHe refers to his comedy as racy and purposely cording to the author himself, you shouldn’t. Manoffensive, which does nothing to make him look like ion’s books are far under the radar, loosely edited a comedic hero and does everything to make him and lack any real substance other than a vague sense seem like an angry old man. His comedy is a bit raunof humor. However, that may be exactly the kind of chier than some, but I don’t think it breaks any more book you’re looking to pick up while you procrastisignificant boundaries than other comics, although nate writing another essay. he does have a reason for creating more controversial Manion as a person is an absolute mystery. His material. website looks like it hasn’t been updated since 2006, “I think there’s nothing greater than offending and his “About” page paints him in the most convopeople every once in a while,” Manion said. “I think luted, roundabout way I’ve ever seen. It makes him most people need it as an intellectual enema of sorts.” look like an off-the-grid hermit who hasn’t heard a In fact, I believe the raunchiness of his works joke since Abbott and Costello’s “Who’s on First?” like “Tales of Adventure with Nap Lapkin” add to the bit. He also has no pictures of himself, which forces themes of masculinity and sexuality and their bind his writing to stand for itself. on, not only the characters, but the narrator himself.

“I don’t care about other writers. I don’t go to On the note of his themes, “Tales of Adventure classes at the community college about writing. I with Nap Lapkin” in particular stands out with its don’t send things out for some professional to take commentary on masculinity. Nap Lapkin is the kind a look at it,” Manion said. ”I just want to remove the of guy who insists on being the absolute pinnacle of pretension [with writing].” standard masculinity. He’s an extreme version of a Lance Manion is the guy in the room who’s James Bond character, hyper-masculine and suave to mildly funny but laughs at his own jokes as if he’s a fault. While at times it’s frustrating to read someone hilarious. His jokes are definitely jokes, but, at least so wrapped up in those ideals, without that theme, I for me, they failed to hit their mark. His jokes are think the book would fall apart completely. what the class clown would say in your sixth grade Manion is self-published, but not as a personal social studies class, which is fine, but also makes you choice. Although he would love to one day get picked wonder why you’re reading them as an adult. up by a publisher, he feels there is no significant auRegarding his main character for his newestPhoto Taken from @adastramovie Instagram dience for his work, so he self-publishes to get his book, Nap Lapkin’s name, Manion talks about how work out there for the people who are interested. He he fumbled over the term “lap napkin” at a restaufeels there is more opportunity for interesting stories rant and couldn’t stop laughing over the name. when smaller authors get the chance to write.

Lance Manion shows Nap Lapkin on the book's cover.

“Everybody laughed for about 30 seconds, and I just kept going back saying ‘that is the “I would much rather have 1,000 people sell 1,000 books that they’ve written than one greatest name for a character ever,’” Manion said. person sell a million,” Manion said.

Manion writes like a Douglas Adams impersonator. He even cites Adams as one of his All in all, Lance Manion is for the few and far between. His works aren’t for everyone; inspirations along with P.G. Wodehouse and Stephen King. However, where Adams is genu- I can proudly say that they’re not for me, but they’re for someone, and maybe that person is inely witty and clever with his words, Manion’s comedy often feels forced. In the first few you. His books, including, “Tales of Adventure with Nap Lapkin” are available on his website pages alone, he breaks the fourth wall so often, it’s like he doesn’t know any other way to be and on Amazon. funny. His comedic choices seem to be done with reckless abandonment, just dropping jokes

By Gracianne Eldrenkamp Vine Editor

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

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Young M.A. Drops 'Herstory in the Making'

By Andrew Murphy Contributing Writer Last Friday, Sept. 27, Rapper Young M.A. (pronounced M-A, not ma) released her debut album titled “Herstory in the Making”. M.A. gained widespread fame for her 2016 hit song “Ooouuu”, and while casual music fans have likely not heard of her since then, M.A.’s album proves that this hit song was no fluke.

“Herstory in the Making”’s opening song “No Mercy (Intro)” provides listeners with a pretty accurate preview of what to expect for the next sixty-plus minutes of music. The song finds M.A.’s smooth, quick rhymes building up into an energized stop-and-go sprint over the aggressively delicate piano-centered instrumental. More specifically, one line from this song may encompass the album’s entire message: “I put her in history and showed her ‘round the globe/This about to be the greatest story never told.” Fame certainly has not changed M.A., for the same humble, clever persona conveyed in her early music remains present throughout the album.

The album creates a very personal experience for the listener. M.A. uses scarcely any feature artists. The album finds M.A. creating many intimately personal moments such as songs “No Love” and “Sober Thoughts.” M.A. does not hesitate to share the profoundness of her personal pain, much of which results from the death of her brother a few years ago. Her song “Numb” explains the eagerness to use drugs in order to erase this chronic pain. “Car Confessions” also possesses this transparency. The song’s lines “Hoping to find hope in this hopeless world we live in” and “I been in the dark, but I promise you’ll see a brighter me” make it impossible for you to not want to root for this voice behind the microphone to conquer all of the adversity in her life.

M.A.’s album is not a project driven home by the same

message. For every inspirational line about overcoming adversity or persevering through pain, M.A. makes sure to compensate with plenty of brags about her rap accomplishments, sexual Cre feats, and militant lifestyle. ative Com mon Her distinct voice helps the s/Pi xab album carry a signature sound, but ay M.A. switches up her rhyme scheme just enough to ensure she does not bore the listener with repetition. The production on songs such as “She Like I’m Like” and “NNAN” allows M.A. to create slightly more upbeat and fun vibe. One of the albums coolest moments is the song “Kold World”, where M.A. displays her skillset over the unique production of hip-hop innovator Zaytoven. The beat does not match M.A.’s normal production choice, but she sounds right at home, rapping about the journey that has brought her to her current place in life. These songs establish a strong balance with the slower and more production of songs like “BIG,” which find M.A. using her signature flow to sound as brash and witty as ever.

“Herstory in the Making” is neither a female rap album nor a LGBTQ album, and M.A. does not want it to be. M.A. most certainly expresses her identity as a female woman with romantic affection solely for other women, but this aspect of her identity does not define her music.

M.A. demands respect as a rapper, without any titles to categorize her into subgroups or exclude her from the majority of her male, heterosexual peers. That being said, the title “Herstory in the Making” certainly possesses some significance. Her sexuality and gender make her story special, but they merely contribute to the rest of the persona present on this 21 track project. The album displays how in this hypermasculine genre, M.A. belongs right alongside the rap game’s most engrossing and impressive talents.

Photo Taken from @youngma Instagram

Rapper Young M.A. poses for a picture.

The Mirror Abroad: Just a Moment with Molly

By Molly Lamendola Abroad Columnist

was now officially ready to shop till I dropped.

The shopping in Milan is the major draw for many tourists, as streets and streets are covered with a whole variety of different clothing stores. But my little group was more worried about food than we were with dropping 500 euros on a new Gucci wallet. So we made a quick pit stop at Five Guys, before window shopping throughout.

Yes, you heard me correctly: Five Guys in Milan. I can’t tell you how jarring it was to see a photo of Barack and Michelle Obama saying how great the burgers were. Or a giant sign over the front door saying, “Maryland’s favorite burger!”

Now tell me the truth, how many Italians could point out Maryland on a map? Okay, maybe more than I think, but I’m just starting to get better at geography myself. Oh, the things you can learn while in Italy!

Okay…I promise I’ll eventually give you an insight into the Florentinian life: the coffee and the history and long walks on cobblestoned paths. But, I’m sitting here at 10 p.m. and just incredibly excited that when anyone asks me about the new coat I bought this weekend, I can say, “Oh this old thing? Yeah I got it in Milan.”

So, let’s chat Milan instead.

Unlike Florence, where it feels like you’re taking a step back into the Renaissance, Milan is incredibly modern. Tall skyscrapers dot the landscape and even the shopping centers seem to be designed after a scene in “Meet the Robinsons.” But there’s a balance that doesn’t exist in Florence between the old and new.

We could see this almost immediately upon arrival. We quickly ran over to see the main tourist attraction in Milan, their Duomo: a 14th century Cathedral almost obscenely decorated in marble statues and carvings that makes it look like a wedding cake topper.

Just as we turned the corner someone made a flyaway comment of, “God there are a lot of kids around, aren’t they supposed to be in school?”

Whoops! We accidentally came to Milan the day of the “Global Climate Strike”. Complete accident for anyone reading this in the Study Abroad Office, as I know that we’re supposed to avoid any protests or demonstrations.

How could you not stop and look!

As I was unable to attend any of the protest strikes back in the States. Just seeing the sights through friends recordings on Snapchat.

Which doesn’t do the t’s a different kind of excitement to be around all of the passion. To see kids not much younger than I group all together to make signs and shirts and skip off school for a protest.

Though honestly, I felt pretty old standing and looking around, I was excited for our future.

But, after seeing some young girl grab a pigeon in her bare hands, we decided to class up our Milan experience by hopping into the Louis Vuitton pop-up museum.

I’ve personally never been to a pop-up museum. Basically, if you don’t know, it’s a temporary portable museum that just sort of “pops up,” hence the name. This one was all Louis Vuitton-themed.

We were able to see the history of the brand from their earliest trunk to a display with pieces from their modern collection, allowing the audience to see the inspiration, but also the brand’s long success.

They had, quite literally, the cutest set of silk pajamas I’ve ever laid my eyes on. You all know how I love a cute pajama set, but these spoke to me on a different level. With the cute cats all over them, I Crowds gather around the Duomo in Milan.

Molly Lamendola/The Mirror

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

The Vine

Inkwell Spotlight A Messa ge From the FBI Anti-Piracy Agency

CreativeCommons/Pixabay

By Trevor MacDonnell Contributing Writer at The Inkwell I had a skydive blunder I went to the land down under I wish it were Australia But now I’m in hysteria All around me is fire In a place for dirty liars Pitchforks prodding my hips Screams coming from my lips I can’t believe I’m in hell I thought I was really swell Satan comes up to me “You’ve got to set me free” He laughs maniacally, “You know what you did to see me” “This is what you get for pirating CD’s”

Page 11

Hits and Misses from The Emmy's Winners

By Katherine Klima Executive Editor

Jharrel Jerome also became the first Latinx person to win an Emmy for best lead actor in a limited series or movie for his role in “When They See Us.” The 21-year-old is also one of the youngest actors in this category, beating noteble A-list actors such as Hugh Grant and Sam Rockwell.

Other winners from that night include Jodi Comer winning best lead actress in a drama series for “Killing Eve”, Bill Hader winning best comedy actor for “Barry”, RuPaul’s Drag Race winning outstanding competition series, Patricia Arguette taking home an Emmy for “The Act”, “Last Week Tonight with John Olivier” for outstanding variety talk series and “Chernobyl” winning outstanding limited series.

Overall, while the 71st Emmy winners were a bit of a surprise, they were also lacking luster. Despite the nice change of pace, especially with the dethroning of many long-standing shows, it still felt as if the Emmys didn’t pick all the right winners.

If your life is a hot mess and you’re barely getting a wink of sleep because of school this week, I doubt you tuned into what TV shows won an Emmy this year. The 71st Primetime Emmy Awards premiered last Saturday, Sept. 22, and here’s a quick rundown of what won, what lost and what made headlines.

Amazon Prime’s hit comedy “Fleabag” was deemed the winner of this year’s Emmys. The dark British comedy swept the categories of best director in a comedy, best actress in a comedy, best writing for a comedy series and best comedy series. This was a bombshell for a lot of fans who believed that “Veep” or “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” would be one of the winning leaders.

Surprisingly, Julia Louis-Dreyfus didn’t win any Emmys this year for “Veep”– which has been notorious for sweeping the Emmys. Dreyfus has won a total of six Emmys for her portrayal as Selina Meyer, and even gave Louis-Dreyfus record breaking titles. This was a shock, considering this would be the Emmys to send off “Veep” for its seventh and final season.

The loss for Amazon’s “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” was also a big surprise considering its sweep last year at the 2018 Emmys. Despite this, the show still went home for best supporting actor in a comedy series (Tony Shalhoub) and best supporting actress in a comedy series (Alex Borstein).

Meanwhile, HBO’s hit show “Game of Thrones” took the Emmy for outstanding drama. Peter Dinklage, who portrays Tyrion Lannister, also won for best supporting actor in a drama series. Truly, I don’t know what they did to deserve this. The usually record-breaking show produced one of its worst seasons yet, but managed to shock viewers by snatching best drama. The show came out on top of shows like “Killing Eve” and “Pose”– which was also a surprise.

There were some great milestones from television’s biggest night. Billy Porter made history for becoming the first openly gay black man to win outstanding lead actor in a drama series (“Pose”). This also puts the actor one Photo Taken from @officialjld Instagram step closer to an EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, Tony).

Julia Louis-Dreyfus starred in "Veep."

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Tangy Apple Salsa Ingredients: 3 apples (preferably Granny Smith) 1/2 red onion 1 jalapeño 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 lime (or lime juice) 1/4 teaspoon sugar salt & pepper A dash of cayenne seasoning (optional) Directions: Peel the skins of the apples and use a knife to dice them, put aside Dice the onion and seed and dice the jalapeño, put aside Mix the diced apples, onion and jalapeño in a bowl with olive oil, salt and pepper, a dash of cayenne, sugar and a splash of lime juice Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy!

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THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

Coffee Break

Page 12

Coffee Break Editor: Tobenna Ugwu tobenna.ugwu@student.fairfield.edu

Fairfield University Annual Leaf Pageant It’s that time of year again when Fairfield University’s leaves get to showcase their beauty and diversity. The Coffee Break Team worked tirelessly to narrow down the contestants and here we have the finalists.

Email your votes for the winner to Coffeebreak@fairfield.edu

Clover

Catherine

Julia

Last year’s winner returns with a new

This year, Clementine has taken the

Starting with no promise whastsoever,

dashing look, ready to wow the students

competition by a storm. She is making

Julia has continued to suprise us all with

once again.

her first appearance at the pageant and

her continuous spectacular delivery.

literally climbing to the top.

Senior Expelled After Stepping on Grass Outside DSB

By Nathan Schmidt Stagnation Editor-In-Chief

Scandal has rocked Fairfield University after a senior student was summarily expelled for stepping on a patch of grass that no living being was meant to touch.

It happened in the blink of an eye. Pauling Halenmeyer ‘20 was leaving her 11 a.m. management class at the new Charles F. Dolan School of Business, when she accidentally stumbled off the overcrowded sidewalk leading to the DiMenna-Nyselius Library, and placed a single foot on the grass lawn. She quickly recovered and resumed her path, but it was already too late.

Seconds later, two DPS officers intervened and immediately apprehended the hapless student, ushering her away to parts unknown without even a word spoken aloud. Her case was reviewed by the Dean of Students’ office later that afternoon, but by that point, Halenmeyer had already been expelled from Fairfield University and from the civilized world.

Associate Dean Jareth Inwdigo commented on the situation: “There are things at Fairfield that mere mortals were never meant to touch. The sanctity of the Dolan School of Business’ front lawn is front and center among those things. And if a single blade of grass were to stand out of line on that beautiful, verdant expanse, we as a university and as a living species would be forfeit.”

Luckily, there may be a path to redemption for Halenmeyer. While she cannot show her face on campus again, university faculty have expressed a willingness to administer her remaining courses online so she can complete her degree — on the condition that she uses her future employment to donate to Fairfield University’s lawn care.

Photo contributed by the Stagnation Staff

Read More at: http://myfairfieldstagnation.wordpress.com/

Creative Commons/Flickr

Sports

SPORTS Sports Editor: Julia Lanzillotta julia.lanzillotta@student.fairďŹ eld.edu

Page 13

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

This Week in Sports: What You Missed

In Case You Missed It: Friday, September 27th -Field Hockey lost to Brown, 6-4 Saturday, September 28th -Volleyball won against Quinnipiac, 3-0 Saturday, September 21st -Women's Soccer won against Niagara, 5-1 -Men's Soccer lost to Hartford, 0-2

Photo Contributed by Sports Information Desk

The Fairfield University men's and women's cross country teams travelled to Holmdel, N.J. to compete in the Henry Mercer Invitational hosted by Monmouth University. The men's team finished in eighth place overall while the women's team finished in ninth.

Robert Dillon lead his teammates with a 35th place finish out of 145 male runners, taking just 27:40.89 to complete the five-mile course.

The other four scorers include Benjamin Breton '21 plus a trio of strong first- year runners involving James Vizzard '23, Thomas VanderSlice '23 and Bryce Zapusek '23. They placed 51st, 60th, 68th and 69th respectively.

Rookie Courtney Kitchen took charge on the women's side, finishing 33rd of 146 participating female athletes. Her accolaides continued, as she was ranked the eighth best of all freshman competing. She crossed the finish line at 19:30.91 for her 5k. Molly Silvestri '22 (62nd place) and Anna Weissenberg '23 (69th place) scored some points for Fairfield with their timely finishes.

The Fairfield cross country programs' next race is slated for Saturday, October 5 in Bethlehem, PA.

Upcoming This Week: Wednesday, October 2nd -Women's Soccer at St. Peter's, 3:00 PM -Men's Soccer vs. Rider, 7:00 PM Friday, October 4th -Field Hockey vs. Sacred Heart, 4:00 PM

Photo Contributed bySports Information Desk

Fairfield Sophomore Amanda Nowak was chosen to represent the Fairfield University women's tennis team in Malibu, CA at the Oracle Intercollegiate Tennis Association (ITA) Masters. Her titles as last year's Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) Player and Rookie of the Year earned her a spot at the competition.

On Thursday, Sept. 26, she played in a mixed doubles match with Max Benaim from Monmouth University where they lost, 6-1.

After that she took on Abbey Forbes of the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) in singles, and was swept 6-0, 6-0. The next day, University of Denver's Anna Riedmiller shut Nowak down 6-1, 6-0 She will reunite with her team on Saturday, Oct. 5 back home in Fairfield, C.T. when the Stags host Rider University for their first MAAC competition of the season.

Saturday, October 5th -Women's & Men's Tennis vs Rider 12:00 PM -Women's Soccer at Canisius 1:00 PM -Volleyball vs Manhattan 1:00 PM -Men's Soccer vs St. Peter's 3:00 PM

In this week's issue...

- Stags Swim Starts Season Strong at Home (Pg. 14)

- Men's Soccer Makes Their Mark At West Point (Pg. 15)

- Seven-Game Win Streak Snapped by Northeastern, 6-2 (Pg.15) - Volleyball Crushes Quinnipiac In Three (Pg. 16)

Sports

Page 14

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

Stags Swim Starts Season Strong at Home

Photo taken from Sports Information Desk The women's team is fresh off of a 2019 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Championship win, and looks to claim their third consecutive title at the 2020 Championships in February.

By Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor On Monday, Oct. 28 the Fairfield University men’s and women’s swimming and diving teams hosted the Fairfield Invitational to commence the 2019-2020 season. The pool’s visitors included the Central Connecticut State University women’s team, the Pace University men’s and women’s teams, the Sacred Heart University women’s team and the men’s and women’s Southern Connecticut State University teams.

The Fairfield University women’s team, who are the reigning Metro Atlantic Athletic Champions for the second year in a row, was still high off of their win from last February.

Sophomore Sara Ostensen won a trio of events. Her first victory was in the 800 meter freestyle by a 7.9 second margin

with a time of 9:35.51. She then dominated the 200 meter butterfly (2:26.80), as well as the 400 meter freestyle (4:39.11) Her teammates Morgan Rogers ‘23, Colleen Young ‘20, Morgan Hansen ‘21 and Maria Nitti ‘21 comprised the 200 meter medley relay team which finished in 2:07.83. This earned the women’s program’s their first relay win of the 2019 season. The relay team’s anchor swimmer, Nitti, recorded the fastest split of the entire relay event at 27.60 seconds.

Much like the women’s team, the men’s team swept the 200 meter medley relay. Swimmers Evan Fair ‘22, Benjamin Kebbell ‘21, Jordan Rahurahu ‘20 and Peter Gori ‘22 finished in 1:48.94. The Stags dominated the 100 meter breaststroke, locking up the first seven ranks. First-year Guillem Perez took home first place, with a stellar 1:08.55 performance.

Fair cleaned up individually, claiming the top spot in the

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

Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor

Lexi Thimble Editor-in-Chief

200 meter backstroke (2:13.40) to add to his day’s accomplishments.

The men’s team came away with the win. Their 702 total points more than doubled the scores of their competitors.

Southern Connecticut State University finished with 342 points in second place, and Pace University came in last, compiling 294 points.

The women placed third of five competing teams with 444 points. They ranked behind Central Connecticut State University (474 points) and cross-town foes Sacred Heart University (453 points), edging out Pace University (125 points) and finally, Southern Connecticut State University (96 points).

Swimming and diving will travel up to Chestnut Hill, Mass. for the New England Catholic Invitational hosted by Boston College from Friday, Oct. 4 to Saturday, Oct. 5.

Your 2019-2020 4x5 Columnists:

Julia Lanzillotta, Lexi Thimble, Katherine Klima and Julia Monteleone

What is your favorite horror Pumpkin spice or traditional movie? coffee?

If you could bring any varsity sport to Fairfield, what would it be?

Predict who will make it to the Superbowl this year:

Which NHL season-opener are you most looking forward to?

Any of the Conjuring movies. All Traditional coffee... I love the smell of them are pretty spooky. of pumpkin spice but you couldn't pay me to drink it.

Hockey!!! Our club team is pretty amazing, but I'm dying for a varsity program.

It's too early to tell but I'm sure, per usual, the Patriots will end up there somehow.

Rangers vs. Jets on Thursday. I'm counting down the seconds.

I have never enjoyed a horror movie in my life :)

I feel like a Debbie Downer but I'm not a coffee drinker...I love apple cider, does that count?

I'm gonna side with Lanz and say hockey, I feel like those games would be a lot of fun!

Wow me and Lanz are so aligned this week. Pats all the way!!

The Bruins start Thursday, so I'm excited to see the Bs get a start. With the summer Stanley Cup Playoffs I developed a lot of respect for my mans Tuukka Rask, so happy to welcome him back.

Traditional coffee all the way.

Although, I don't know if I'm too early to say I can't wait for Peppermint Mocha season. Jingle Bells?

Even though I know very little about the sport, football. I used to have a blast going to my high school games.

The Giants, only because the last time they won it was awesome.

I guess the Islanders. I'm from Long-GUY-land so I gotta represent.

Neither. Sinfully Nutty coffee with cream and sugar from Donut Inn.

Football!! I Know we had it at some point but I am jealous of all my friends who tailgate every weekend throughout the fall.

As a Jersey girl I want the Giants to go (not the Jets cause ew).

NYR Baby!

Oh man I love "Children of the Katherine Klima Corn." Ever see that movie– it's so Executive Editor dumb I love it.

Does Nightmare Before Christ-

Julia Monteleone mas count as a horror movie?

Managing Editor

Sports

THE MIRROR | Week of October 2, 2019

Page 15

Men's Soccer Makes Their Mark At West Point

By Kevin Stush Contributing Writer The Fairfield University men’s soccer team (1-3-2) advanced their season on Tuesday, Sept. 24 with a 1-0 win against Army West Point (2-2-1) at Malek Stadium in West Point, N.Y. The first half was primarily dominated by the Stags, who out shot Army 6-4.

About halfway through the half, with the help of Colman Kim ‘23, Cooper Knecht ‘22 scored his first goal of the season, giving the Stags the lead.

Throughout the rest of the half Jonathon Filipe ‘20, Kheireddine Kourdassi ‘20, Matt McGlinchey ‘21 and Marcus Nordgard ‘20 were able to maintain steady pressure on Army, keeping the ball on their side of the field.

Still holding onto the lead going into the second half, Fairfield played a defensively formidable 45 minutes against a relentless West Point team.

Army outshot Fairfield 8-4 in the second half, six of which were saved by Fairfield junior goalkeeper Gordon Botterill.

Botterill did not put up the fight alone. The strong Fairfield defense was composed of Cormack Pike ‘22, Jonas Vergin ‘21 and Daniel Raimondo ‘23 who fought hard to give Botterill his well deserved shutout.

Knecht’s first half goal secured the 1-0 win for Fairfield University.

Army was led offensively by Keenan O’Shea, Oscar Pereira and Bradley Schweickert who managed to outshoot Fairfield 12-10 throughout the 90 minutes of regulation time.

Goalie Justin Stoll stood strong in net for West Point and was supported by D’Anthony Brown, Zac McGraw and Eric Whiteman.

Tuesday’s win has advanced Fairfield’s record to 2-3-2.

Photo taken from Sports Information Desk The Stags will play their first Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference game at home after a week long break on Wednesday, Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. on their own Lessing Gordon Botterill '21 made seven saves during Tuesday's game to hold off the West Point Cadets.

Field in Fairfield, Conn.

Seven-Game Win Streak Snapped by Northeastern , 6-2

Photo taken from Sports Information Desk

Emma Matlach amassed four shots during Friday's game. Of her two shots on goal, she made it past Northeastern goaltender Julia Gluyas once, scoring her second goal of the season.

By Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor On Friday, Sept. 27 the Fairfield University field hockey program’s seven-game hot streak came to an unfortunate halt when Northeastern University beat them on their own turf, 6-4. Fairfield’s overall record worsened to a still impressive 7-2 while Northeastern’s improved 6-2.

Northeastern was quick to get the action started just two minutes and 43 seconds into the first period when Camille O’Conor’s goal was made possible on an assist by Lauren Rowe. Rowe is number two in the nation for scoring. Of her four shots recorded during the early evening game, three of them were on Fairfield’s goal and two successfully made it past Zoe Rosen ‘21 in the cage. O’Conor’s opening goal was one of the pair that she summed up, and her teammate Kasidy Anderson was the third Husky to put on a two-goal performance in Fairfield, CT. The trio were key members in the compelling offense that ultimately overpowered Fairfield.

Northeastern dominated the first half of the game, alone on the scoreboard 2-0 at the halftime whistle. They managed a third consecutive goal when Anderson scored off of her own rebound. However, shortly after Fairfield first-year Madison Hoskins switched into gear when teammate Gabby Saxon ‘22 set her up for a perfect scoring opportunity in the center, which Hoskins took full advantage of.

Northeastern was afforded a penalty stroke not even a minute later, where they

scored again, chipping into their new 4-1 lead.

Towards the end of the quarter, Fairfield won back possession from a penalty corner

by Danielle Profita. Rookie Julianna Kratz turned that opportunity into a goal (her third of the season), putting the Stags within two of Northeastern, 4-2. This would conclude scoring in the third, forcing Fairfield to fight relentlessly to uphold their precious undefeated record at home.

Northeastern was incessant in the final quarter. Not even five minutes past the start of the period, Rosen faced and stopped a bullet by Sam Bodu, but failed to stop another just five seconds later. Northeastern found the net once more in that time-span and increased their lead to 6-2.

Again, Fairfield drew a penalty corner and Profita deflected a pass by Malen Iglesias ‘22 to the back of the net. Junior Emma Matlach trailed shortly behind, making the final difference in score.

Rosen was pulled with a minute and a half left in regulation time as a last-ditch effort to claim the win, but Fairfield failed to make up the two-point shortfall. The goalkeeper made an applaudable six saves of the 13 shots she faced, and kept her chin up despite the constant pressure put on her for the majority of the game.

Fairfield currently ranks fifteenth in the National Collegiate Athletic Association standings, which is a promising feat as they enter Northeast Conference (NEC) play this Friday, Oct. 4. They are slated to face cross-town rivals Sacred Heart University (1-9) with the home-field advantage at 4 p.m. on University Field.

@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports

Week of October 2, 2019

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SPORTS 16

Sports Editor: Julia lanzillotta » julia.lanzillotta@student.fairfield.edu

Volleyball Crushes Quinnipiac In Three

Photo Taken From Sports Information Desk

Senior setter Manuela Nicolini tallied 41 assists for Fairfield in Saturday's evening match against Quinnipiac University, contributing to her team's outstanding .282 hitting percentage.

By Kevin Stush Contributing Writer Fairfield University Volleyball (7-4) continues to rack up wins in their now six game win streak. On Saturday, Sept. 28 the Stags hosted Quinnipiac University (4-7) and defeated them in three consecutive sets to secure the win in the Stags first home match since Sept. 14, 2019.

Wanting to “come out strong and defend home court”, the team was “really excited to play at home again and wanted to make a statement coming out,'' as said by Sonja Radulovic ‘20 of Fairfield.

That is what they did. Through great team communication and support, the Stags quickly developed a 9-3 lead in the first set, forcing Quinnipiac to call an early timeout that would ultimately be ineffective at slowing down Fairfield. Fairfield would win the first set 25-17.

The second and third sets were a little tougher on Fairfield as they struggled to gain a strong lead in either set. There was a time in both sets where it seemed like Quinnipiac was going to win. However, the Stags came up clutch at the end of each set to win 25-22 and 25-21.

Offensively, Fairfield was led by Mayda Garcia ‘20, who had 14 kills throughout the sets, as well as Laura Seeger ‘22 who had ten and Joelle Battles ‘23 who had eight.

In the back row, the Stags were led by rookie Morgan Doll who recorded 19 digs and Radulovic who had nine.

Junior Luci Albertson, Kaylie Butts ‘21 and Manuela Nicolini ‘20 also contributed to the team's defensive play with four, five and three total blocks respectively.

The Bobcats were led by Aryanah Diaz in offensive and defensive efforts. Diaz came away with a double-double, totaling ten kills and 19 digs. Alejandra Rodriguez also had 19 digs while Maggie Baker had nine digs and five kills to both contribute to the team’s efforts.

Radulovic had a key response when she was asked about the six-game win streak.

“It is obviously good to build momentum,” she said, “but we try to focus on every match one at a time and just kind of take it day by day so we are really excited to just keep going.”

Radulovic and her fellow seniors want the season to slow down, as they are not ready for their time as Stags to come to an end.

“I don’t want to think about that [my last season] yet, but I really want to finish with a really good season and I’m sure that will help make everything worthwhile,'' said the outside hitter.

Fairfield is now 8-4 on the season and continues to maintain their undefeated record in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, with three consecutive wins under their belt.

The Stags will go up against Manhattan College (2-11) on Saturday, Oct. 5 at 1:00 p.m. on George Bisacca Court.

Manhattan is desperate for a few more points in the win column and this will definitely translate to strength against the Stags this weekend.

Photo Taken From Sports Information Desk

Fairfield will host two MAAC adversaries this upcoming week, first against Manhattan College (2-11, 0-3 MAAC) on October 5 and then Iona College (1-12, 1-2 MAAC) on Oct. 6.