Fairfield Mirror 2/24/2021

Britney Spears

A Final Masterpiece

Women’s Basketball

Opinion

Vine

Sports

Britney Spears documentary ‘Framing Britney’ reveals she is forced to live under a conservatorship.

Art Columnist Tyler Heffern pens his final piece.

Women’s Basketball on Three-Game Win Streak

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THE MIRROR Independent student newspaper

Week of February 24, 2021

Vol. 46 Iss. 13

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Heffern and Fiori Fly to First Place in FUSA Presidential Election

By Madison Gallo News Editor

By Madeline West Assistant News Editor Juniors Tyler Heffern and Cailyn Fiori were announced the winners of the Fairfield University Student Association presidential election on Tuesday, Feb. 23 during the FUSA Presidential Election Party Zoom. Heffern and Fiori will serve as the FUSA President and Vice President for the 2021-2022 academic year.

There were 1,158 total votes this year, and the Heffern-Fiori ticket clinched their victory with 678 votes. Richardson and Singh received 465 and the other 15 votes went to write-in candidates.

Current FUSA Vice President Tobenna Ugwu ‘22 commented on behalf of himself and current President Vincent Gadioma ‘22 with regards to the results and election as a whole.

“Vinny and I congratulate all the

Photo Taken by @bottega.photography

Heffern and Fiori pose for Instagram photo.

candidates and look forward to ensuring a smooth transition with the next president and vice president,” Ugwu said. “We also would like to congratulate the FUSA Court for doing a great job on putting together a successful, yet safe, election.”

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s election ran differently from previous ones.

FUSA chief justice and election commissioner Dan Messier ‘21 spoke upon the uniqueness of this election, stating that “candidates had to find different ways to campaign due to the pandemic. Usually, candidates do a ‘dorm storm’ the day the ballot opens, where they go through residence halls and talk to people about their platforms.”

Adjustments were made to typical election protocol in order to ensure the health and safety of the tickets and fellow Stags.

On top of this, candidates still had to abide by Fairfield University’s COVID-19 Guidelines.

The 2021 FUSA Presidential Guidelines detailed the adjustments. These adjustments state that candidates must practice social distancing while campaigning, are prohibited from posting any physical campaign material on any surfaces on campus, that a candidate may not campaign in a residence hall that is not their own and distribution of any physical campaign material is prohibited.

President-Elect Heffern stated, “The adjustments to campaigning made during the pandemic were challenging, but we were grateful to have such strong support on social media.”

Messier also echoed the importance of social media during this year’s election.

“This year, they obviously could not do that, but I think the candidates have adjusted well to this new election climate, by relying more heavily on social media and other forms of virtual interaction,” Messier said. “I hope this experience will only make FUSA elections stronger in the future.”

“We are really proud of the work all four of us put into the election,” Heffern said.

During the Zoom, Fiori spoke directly to Richardson and Singh.

COVID-19 Numbers Look Up for Spring

By Catherine Santangelo Editor-in-Chief With the return of students to Fairfield University’s campus for the Spring 2021 semester, the University’s COVID-19 regulations have been altered in order to better control the spread of the virus on campus. One of the most significant changes made was switching from only testing a random sample of the campus community for surveillance testing to now requiring weekly surveillance testing of all Fairfield students, faculty and staff on campus.

Before the start of the spring semester, Fairfield conducted repopulation testing consisting of at-home COVID-19 tests supplied by Quest Diagnostics and then two more tests once students moved back on campus. This process stretched from Jan. 21 to Feb. 13, 2021. A negative result from the at-home test was required for students to move back to campus. Once on campus, students were tested twice more during the study-in-place period which came to an end on Feb. 10.

During this repopulation testing process, about 13,000 tests were conducted with an overall infection rate of one percent, according to Fairfield University’s COVID-19 Daily Dashboard.

With the repopulation phase of testing complete, the University switched to their required weekly surveillance testing process, with testing appointments available on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays. The first week of the weekly surveillance testing has come to an end, and Fairfield is currently sitting at COVID-19 Status Level: Green, which means campus has a very low level of risk for COVID-19 infection.

Many students on campus are glad that the University put into effect this new weekly COVID-19 testing requirement.

CONTINUE READING COVID-19 DATA ON PAGE 2

TheMirror/MadisonGallo

Singh and Richardson pose in front of their election table.

“To [Richardson] and [Singh], please don’t stop your work for the students and on FUSA,” Vice President-Elect Fiori said.

“We could really use people like you. You guys are passionate, and that means a lot to me.”

The Mirror reached out to the Richardson-Singh campaign post-election. Richardson responded writing, “It’s been a difficult but highly rewarding process. I’ve learned so much over the past few weeks. I’m happy for Tyler and Cailyn and have the [utmost] confidence in their abilities. They ran an incredible campaign and have the qualifications to be successful. I wish them the best of luck and good I can support them in whatever capacity I can.”

The Heffern-Fiori campaign released a statement to The Mirror saying, “We are incredibly honored to have been given the opportunity to serve the student body as FUSA President and Vice President next year.”

They added that “it was a hard-fought campaign and we are very proud of our honest work and the work of [Richardson] and [Singh].”

They ended their statement with remarks about the future.

“Now that the election is over, we are ready to get to work to fight for the students. We are so grateful for their trust in us and we will not let them down. We do hope we can make them proud and serve them with integrity.”

Students Recognized in MLK Event

By Andrew Murphy Staff Writer Fairfield University’s Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, “Striving to Build the Beloved Community: From Dr. King to Black Lives Matter,” held its annual commemoration on Monday, Feb. 22.

Professor Cristina Beltran of New York University served as the event’s guest speaker.

“Now, as we move into this post-vaccinated world, it’s a fitting moment to have this convocation, to think about where we’ve been and who we want to be,” Beltran said.

The central focus of Beltran’s lecture was what she called the idea of political imagination, specifically in its relation to racial justice.

“Calls for gender, racial and social justice are calls for a future we have never seen,” explained Beltran. “King asks us to treat one another in ways that human beings have never treated each other before.”

A world where Dr. King’s goals of living together as brothers and sisters depend on people’s ability to not defeat each other, but to defeat racism as an entity.

“It’s often easier to scare people into thinking that change will make things worse, but if [what] we have is America’s past as a model for our future, then our story is already defined by too much violence and exclusion,” continued Beltran.

Political imaginaries will help the country move forward to new places, but if America never confronts its past, these ideas remain meaningless.

“Until we talk about what we have done to each other and what we do to each other, we’ll be

stuck in a state of imagination,” said Beltran.

She expanded on her idea by explaining how whiteness as a political ideology represents domination over other humans. This prominent part of America’s history does not even register as abnormal to many people, for the same reasons that appearing white does not register as an innate privilege.

CONTINUE READING COVID-19 DATA ON PAGE 2

Photo Contributed by News@Fairfield

News

THE MIRROR | Week of Februrary 24, 2021

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Fairfield Community Sees Overall Decrease in COVID Cases CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

“The real challenge for us is that our very understanding of freedom, equality and democracy have actually been constituted through white supremacy,” explained Beltran. “Our experience of these civic ideals cannot be completely detached from the political project of whiteness itself.”

She cites the head of militia-terrorist group Proud Boys, a man of Afro-Cuban ethnicity, as an example of how the ideals of domination and exclusion do not pertain solely to race, but to an ideology. Whiteness, as a product of capitalism and national exclusivity, has historically functioned as a means to yield and exceed the law. In this sense, Beltran illustrates clearly how white supremacy has popularized the scarcity logic thinking.

“It assumes that my having enough means that you have to have less,” she noted. “It tries to scare us into turning away from other communities or minorities in self-defense.”

The fact that many Americans would naturally yearn for an idealized past, full of domination and fear, rather than imagine a new future of joy and dignity is something Beltran acknowledges fully.

Every generation has a responsibility to fight for the causes of that moment.

Beltran insisted that the college students to which she spoke on this night share the responsibility of exercising their political imaginaries in order to continue their predecessors’ legacy of fighting the abhorrent injustices in front of them.

“We have to imagine the world in new ways, trying to imagine a world that’s not shaped by those scarcity logics is a little bit weird,” remarked Beltran.

Luckario Alcide ‘21, co-host of the event’s question and answer session, asked Beltran who in today’s society she would-

deem a political imaginary, and who college students should strive to emulate.

“People are organizing on Zoom everyday for things they believe in,” responded Beltran. “One of the exciting things

“I was actually never chosen for the randomized testing last semester and was given a hard time when I tried to schedule an appointment myself, so it was pretty frustrating.” about imagination is that you can say ‘I know this won’t happen tomorrow, but I want this to happen in the future.’”

Remaining dedicated to everyday, practical work, while still keeping longterm dreams alive, is something that Beltran reiterated throughout the event.

In doing so, she echoed a lot of Dr. King’s most famous words.

Her final thoughts on the evening pertained to how learning, and the value that a deep, civic education offers, can have on creating a better society.

“Being able to understand our national history in all its beauty and its tragedy is to understand what we’ve done with each other and to each other,” said Beltran.

The Convocation served as the culmination of Fairfield’s 21-Day Ignatian Racial Equity Challenge, a three-week endeavor consisting of drop-in sessions and Instagram posts about action steps,

reflection and education. Pejay Lucky, co-chair of the MLK Convocation committee and director of Student Diversity and Multicultural Affairs, stated that amongst the numerous events scheduled for the two weeks following the Convocation, this preshow helps highlight the great work being done here at Fairfield.

“We wanted to talk about what we are doing, even now, to build our beloved community, especially on campus and in our beloved communities,” explained Lucky.

“The pre-show to the Convocation is a celebration of activism where student clubs and organizations pre-recorded speeches about their activism and how they are advocating for their fellow students on campus.”

Andrea Canuel, Janie Leatherman, Ph.D. and Nya Jones ‘23 all received Vision Awards at the beginning of this webinar for their activist work in the community.

Fairfield University, the United States as a whole and every other community in between, still has a long way to go before reaching the political imaginaries discussed by Beltran. However, Fairfield’s Celebration of MLK’s memory and life’s work’s message both celebrates strides of progress made so far and reminds everyone of the importance of persistence when striving for this better community.

“We can make Nursing student

changes right now, but we can’t get so caught up in the pragmatic, that we forget what could be a better, more emancipatory future,” declared Beltran.

Photo Contributed by News@Fairfield

stands ready to test students in RecPlex.

Fairfield Honors Students for MLK Vision Award CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

“The real challenge for us is that our very understanding of freedom, equality and democracy have actually been constituted through white supremacy,” explained Beltran. “Our experience of these civic ideals cannot be completely detached from the political project of whiteness itself.”

She cites the head of militia-terrorist group Proud Boys, a man of Afro-Cuban ethnicity, as an example of how the ideals of domination and exclusion do not pertain solely to race, but to an ideology. Whiteness, as a product of capitalism and national exclusivity, has historically functioned as a means to yield and exceed the law. In

Photo Courtesy of the Sports Information Desk

Nya Jones, winner of the 2021 MLK Vision Award.

this sense, Beltran illustrates clearly how white supremacy has popularized the scarcity logic thinking.

“It assumes that my having enough means that you have to have less,” she noted. “it tries to scare us into turning away from other communities or minorities in self-defense.”

The fact that many Americans would naturally yearn for an idealized past, full of domination and fear, rather than imagine a new future of joy and dignity is something Beltran acknowledges fully.

Every generation has a responsibility to fight for the causes of that moment. Beltran Photo Contributed by News@Fairfield insisted that the college students to which she Luckario Alcide 2020 MLK Vision Award Recipient. spoke on this night share the responsibility of exercising their political imaginaries in order to gram posts about action steps, reflection, and education. continue their predecessors’ legacy of fighting the Pejay Lucky, co-chair of the MLK Convocation committee abhorrent injustices in front of them. and Director of Student Diversity and Multicultural Af“We have to imagine the world in new ways, trying fairs, stated that amongst the numerous events scheduled to imagine a world that’s not shaped by those scarcity logfor the two weeks following the convocation, the Convocaics is a little bit weird,” remarked Beltran. tion’s pre-show helps highlight great work being done here Luckario Alcide ‘21, co-host of the event’s Q+A sesat Fairfield. sion, asked Beltran who in today’s society she would deem “We wanted to talk about what we are doing even a political imaginary and who college students should now to build our beloved community, especially on campus strive to emulate. and in our beloved communities,” explained Lucky. “The “People are organizing on Zoom everyday for things pre-show to the Convocation is a celebration of activthey believe in,” responded Beltran. “One of the exciting ism where student clubs and organizations pre-recorded things about imagination is that you can say ‘I know this speeches about their activism and how they are advocating won’t happen tomorrow, but I want this to happen in the for their fellow students on campus.” future’.”

Andrea Canuel, Janie Leatherman, PhD and Nya Remaining dedicated to everyday, practical work, Jones ‘23 all received Vision Awards at the beginning of while still keeping long-term dreams is something that this webinar for their activist work in the community.

Beltran reiterated throughout the event. In doing so, she Fairfield University, the United States as a whole, and echoed a lot of Dr. King’s most famous words. every other community in between still has a long way to Her final thoughts on the evening pertained to how learning and the value that a deep, civic education can have go before reaching the political imaginaries discussed by Beltran. However, Fairfield’s Celebration of MLK’s memoon creating a better society. ry and life’s work message both celebrates strides of prog“Being able to understand our national history in all ress made so far and reminds everyone of the importance its beauty and its tragedy is to understand what we’ve done of persistence when striving for this better community. with each other and to each other,” said Beltran.

“We can make changes right now, but we can’t get so The Convocation served as the culmination of Faircaught up in the pragmatic, that we forget what could be a field’s 21-Day Ignatian Racial Equity Challenge, a threebetter, more emancipatory future,” declared Beltran. week endeavor consisting of drop-in sessions and Insta-

News

THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

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Compiled by Colleen Vann Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.

2/5 10:30 p.m.

A resident assistant in Jogues Hall reported that non-students were agitating people and damaging property. Three males were spotted running away by a Department of Public Safety officer, but they were later identified and both of the non-students were identified as a guest of a Jogues resident. The non-students were escorted off campus and the student was referred to student conduct.

2/6 11:13 a.m.

A student reported receiving unwanted texts from an unknown party. The situation is under investigation.

11:00 p.m.

A narcotics possession was discovered in Regis Hall. The individual was referred to student conduct.

2/7 4:06 p.m.

An Allstate landscaping driver called to report a motor vehicle accident, where they struck an unoccupied vehicle at the townhouses. The owner was contacted and a report was filed.

4:08 p.m.

Allstate landscaping called to report striking a parked vehicle at Dolan Hall. The owner was contacted and a report was filed.

2/11 3:42 p.m.

Vandalism was reported on the fourth floor of Jogues Hall. A bathroom sink had been ripped off of the wall of the gender-neutral bathroom.

5:42 p.m.

Harassment involving two students was reported. No Contact orders were distributed to both parties and the case was referred to the Title IX coordinator.

2/13 1:52 a.m.

A narcotics possession was discovered in Faber Hall when an investigation

THE MIRROR Incorporated 1977

Catherine Santangelo, Editor-in-Chief Julia Lanzillotta, Executive Editor Sheila McCombs, Managing Editor Editors Colleen Vann, Chief Copy Madison Gallo, Head News Madeline West, Assistant News Maria DiGregorio, Opinion Molly Lamendola, Vine Julia Lanzillotta, Sports Tristan Cruz, Coffee Break Business Department Email: info@fairfieldmirror.com Lila Condon, Chief Financial Officer

Advisor Matt Tullis

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

into loud music led to detecting the scent of marijuana and the consequential confiscation of a small amount of the drug and paraphernalia. The student was referred to student conduct.

10:25 a.m.

A single motor vehicle accident occured in the Thomas J. Walsh, Jr. Athletic Center parking lot when a vehicle struck a pole, causing the airbags to be deployed. The vehicle sustained heavy damage, but there was no injury reported.

9:06 p.m.

Suspicious activity was reported after a group of individuals was approached in the Fairfield Prep alley and one ran into Berchman Hall at Fairfield Preparatory School. The individual was later identified and referred to student conduct.

2/15 10:23 p.m.

There was a harassment case involving two students. No Contact orders were issued to both parties and they were referred to student conduct.

2/19 4:18 a.m.

While a DPS vehicle was fueling up off campus, it came across a one-car motor vehicle accident where the individual found was unresponsive. The Fairfield Police Department was contacted and the individual was transported to the hospital.

2/20 2:53 a.m.

There was disorderly conduct involving one student, who was referred to student conduct. The following day, two non-student guests of the same individual were issued citations by the Fairfield Police and escorted off campus for trespassing.

9:51 p.m.

Two males behind 47 Mahan Road were approached by an officer due to suspicious activity. They were identified and admitted to marijuana use. They were referred to student conduct.

News

THE MIRROR | Week of Februrary 24, 2021

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Editor-in-Chief Switches Over: Santangelo Says Goodbye

By Catherine Santangelo Editor-in-Chief

it came to deciding what to work on, either my homework or my Mirror work, I was always more drawn to work on The Mirror-related tasks. This is how I knew that I loved what I was doing. More importantly, I loved the people I was working with and I always strove to be the best leader and EIC for them that I could possibly be; one who they could come to for support and one who they could trust to find solutions and get them through the tougher weeks. I hope that I at least achieved that during this crazy year that we have had!

This past year with The Mirror has been one of the most challenging, yet rewarding experiences I have had, and I am so thankful for the opportunity to have done something that

Catherine Santangelo was the Editor-in-Chief of The Fairfield Mirror from 2020 to 2021. Upon her last issue she wished to share some thoughts with The Mirror’s readers and her staff: “Let’s just say that my time as Editor-in-Chief of The Mirror has been anything but conventional. After officially taking over the position about a year ago, me and my new staff were able to put out our first print issue together. It was one of the best feelings in the world to hold that physical copy of our newspaper in my hands and know all of the hard work that went into creating it. An even greater feeling was the anticipation of doing it all again the next week, spending hours with my amazing staff in our cozy fishbowl office, sharing plenty of laughs and the latest ‘hot tea’ with each other and overall producing an awesome newspaper…except that second issue never came in the Spring 2020 semester, all thanks to Miss Rona.

We were sent home from school, and I was left to move our little newspaper into a completely online format. I was glad to still be able to publish content during this time, and I was proud of myself and my staff for what we were able to accomplish amidst the circumMolly Lamendola/The Mirror stances, especially Exiting Editor-in-Chief Catherine Santangelo stands in front of The Mirror office. so early into our new positions. However, it I never really pictured myself doing in college or even expected was obviously not what I had expected my time as EIC to be like, would happen when I first joined The Mirror as a contributing nor was it what I wanted the experience to be like. I was really writer in my sophomore year. I am also so incredibly thankful for looking forward to being with my staff, on campus, and working that time that I got to spend with those who care as much for this together to produce each issue of the newspaper that we are all so newspaper as I do. To them, I want to say a few things: passionate about.

To Tristan...thank you for taking on the Coffee Break I could keep talking about how the coronavirus impactposition, even though it wasn’t what you had initially planned ed our newspaper and my experience as EIC, and how it made on doing. I’m so excited that you’ll be able to take on the CFO things a lot crazier than I was anticipating. But, despite all of it, position next year and gain some experience that will hopefully I don’t want the pandemic to be what defines my time as EIC. I help you in your future endeavors! want the lessons I have learned, the ways I have grown and the To Maria…thank you for taking over the Opinion section people I have gotten to know to define my time in this position. after me and remaining true to the importance of allowing I’ve learned so much about how to be an effective leader in the people to express themselves. Also, we are graduating!!! As the past year and how important it is to be a source of support for only other senior on staff, I’m so excited for us to be moving on others, while also making sure to surround yourself with your to new things! I am wishing you all the best in law school, if that’s own support system. I’ve grown in my communication skills still the path you decide to take, but I know you will do great in through the insane amount of emails and text messages that whatever you decide to do post-grad.

I have sent, the various meetings I have hosted and attended To Danielle...I know the News section was a headache a and the many important conversations I have had with my staff ton of the time, but you always persevered and still managed to members about how we can improve every week and help this put together a great section each week. I give you a ton of credit paper evolve. I have also grown in my writing and editing skills for taking on the monster that is News, so thank you for that. through the many articles I have written and the hundreds of To Colleen…our Copy Editor and Crime Beat queen! I know your time at The Mirror was probably even more unconventional than mine, but you saved our butts when we really needed it, so thank you immensely! You always had such a bright presence in the office, but I’m looking forward to you coming back as articles crossing my desk that I have edited and signed off on to a writer to contribute some amazing pieces next year! be published. I have also met and gotten to know people who I To my Ed Board team...I don’t think I can put into hope to know for years to come. These are the things that I want words how thankful I am to the three of you for supporting me to take away from this experience. Although the pressures of throughout my time as EIC. You were with me at my highest and the pandemic were immense at times, I really wouldn’t want to you were there to pick me up at my lowest, and we always got change a thing, because those pressures, pandemic-related or through things together. It makes my heart so happy to think not, are what pushed me to do my best for myself, my staff and about what you’ll all do together and where you will take The this newspaper.

Mirror next in the coming year.

After becoming EIC, my workload increased immensely Lanz…you were always my go-to when making the tough because suddenly I had all of the work that comes along with decisions. You are so strong in your beliefs, and your passion is running a newspaper on top of my regular homework. When

made so clear in everything that you do, which is something that I truly admire about you. I still will never understand why you have such a strong connection to the Sports section, but what I do understand about it is that it stems from your loyalty. I know your extreme passion and loyalty will take you far Lanz, so don’t ever lose it.

Sheila…one of the warmest, most kind-hearted people I know. You may not even know it, but your positive spirit is what kept me going, and you always kept me grounded. The number of times you have said to me, “Catherine, it’s okay,” are countless, and on top of that, you were always right. I know that your

“All the Editor-in-Chiefs

that have come before me have left some pretty big shoes to fill. But, I know my lovely new staff and all my friends on the Editorial Board will help me make the Mirror the best it can be!” positive spirit will continue, and I’m so excited for you to take on your new role on Ed Board, keeping the staff motivated and helping to lead The Mirror to new places that I know you’re excited to explore. Honestly, just thank you for being you, Sheils.

Miss Molly...I don’t think anyone loves this paper or wants to see it succeed as much as you do, and you have proven that over and over again, which is exactly why you are the person who should lead this staff in achieving the goals that I know you have. I honestly did not expect to become as close to you as we have gotten in the past year, but now you’re in the top three of my “most texted” list, and I really just couldn’t be more thankful for our friendship. You’re going to absolutely rock it as the new EIC! I don’t think I left shoes too big to fill, so I know you and your staff will achieve new heights, and I can’t wait to see what you do.”

Molly Lamendola ‘22 is the new Editor-in-Chief of The Fairfield Mirror for 2021 to 2022. “I am just so excited to hop in and take The Mirror to a new place,” said Lamendola. “All the Editor-in-Chiefs that have come before me have left some pretty big shoes to fill. But, I know my lovely new staff and all my friends on the Editorial Board will help me make The Mirror the best it can be! So happy to start!”

“Although the pressures of the pandemic were

immense at times, I really wouldn’t want to change a thing, because those pressures, pandemic-related or not, are what pushed me to do my best for myself, my staff and this newspaper.”

Catherine Santangelo/The Mirror

New Editor-in-Chief Molly Lamendola poses.

Opinion

THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

Page 5

Editor Maria DiGregorio» maria.digregorio@student.fairfield.edu

#FreeBritney From Manipulative Conservator Jamie Spears followed Spears to her ex-husband’s house. He approached her car and flashed his camera through the

By Jessica Colloca windshield, and that is when Spears infamously got out of her car, grabbed an umbrella, and attacked Contributing Writer Ramos’ vehicle. She dented the doors and repeatedly hit the windows, All the while, Ramos and The documentary “Framing Britney Spears” was released on Hulu on Feb. 5. It has brought to other paparazzi filmed her. The next day, Ramos’ photo was on the front page of every tabloid, light the mistreatment and neglect Britney Spears has endured ever since her rise to fame in 2002, “It was the money shot,” he scoffed. including the extreme hypersexualization and blatant disregard for Spears’ mental health. The Spears was not only a victim of extreme abuse from tabloids and paparazzi as they film is an episode of the series “New York Times Presents.” It highlights the ongoing conflict exposed her personal life: marital problems, weight fluctuation and custody court cases. between Spears and her father, Jamie Spears, regarding the court-sanctioned conservatorShe was also hypersexualized ever since her first single “...Baby One More Time.” In a ship, which was ruled to be necessary in 2008. This was the catalyst which triggered a time of successful boy bands, Spears’ global sales were astonishing. She was one of a movement started by her fans called #FreeBritney, aiming to prove Spears’ mental capackind, and all eyes were on the new young girl who seemed to have control of her own ity and liberate her from the conservatorship. body and knew how to own a crowd. Teenage girls adored her because she exuded the The documentary interviews people who were once close to Spears like her confidence and sex appeal they craved. In an interview with Dianne Sawyer on ABC former assistant and friend, Felicia Culotta, and her former lawyer, Adam Streisand. in 2003, Sawyer asked Spears for her response to a statement made by Kendel Sibiski Furthermore, the documentary touches on the journalists and media professionals Ehrilch, the First Lady of Maryland. Ehrilch said, “If I had an opportunity to shoot who took part in the media coverage of Spears’ music releases, personal relationships Britney Spears, I think I would.” Her reasoning for this vile statement? Spears’ sex and various “breakdowns.” Wesley Morris, a New York Times critic, examines the appeal and confidence are setting a bad example for young girls. Upon hearing way journalists and newsrooms all over the country failed Spears and ultimately this, Spears claimed that it is not her job to babysit kids. contributed to the limiting of her freedoms within the conservatorship. He also In the same interview, Sawyer asked Spears what she had done to pop talks about the misogyny within our society that allows for men to benefit from star Justin Timberlake to make him so heartbroken. The couple had recently the glorification of mental illness in women. broken up, and there had been a rumor circulating in the news that Spears Morris acknowledged that conversations surrounding mental health were cheated on Timberlake. Timberlake took control of the narrative and weapsimply not happening, and the media was willing to drive Spears over the edge, onized society’s normalization of misogyny to profit from Spears’ demise. He bombarding her at her home, pounding on her car windows and following her cast an actress who resembled Spears to be in the music video for “Cry Me a every move with their cameras in her face. In one scene of the documentary, River.” Timberlake had recently left the boy band NSYNC to be a solo artist, Spears is pushing through a group of paparazzi saying, “Can you guys not fight, and the societal shaming of his ex-girlfriend laid the perfect foundation for I’m scared. I’m scared. I’m scared.” It is absolutely heartbreaking to imagine a a new career. He was pitied while she was scrutinized. life where no moment is private. Spears had no way out of the spotlight and Men are rarely held to the same standard as women in the enternowhere to turn for help without being labeled as “crazy” or “a bad influence.” tainment industry. Timberlake released an apology for his inevitable Morris says, “There was too much money to be made off her sufferprofit from a society that derives pleasure from watching women suffer, ing.” but many are saying that it is simply not enough to acknowledge that Perez Hilton, the infamous celebrity blogger, said, “Thank you, misogyny exists everywhere we look. Journalist at CNN, Marcia Britney Spears -- being bad is good for my business.”

Bianco, says, “If the societal change necessary for dignity and It was these opinions and money-grabbing opportunities that justice is to occur, we must move from awareness to acthe journalists of the early 2000s took advantage of. Photos of Spears countability.” Timberlake is not the only man who beneat the height of her custody battle with her former husband, Kevfitted from the shaming of Spears. Her father, who had in Federline, were sold to magazines like “Us Weekly” and never been in her life as a stable parent, was deemed “People” magazine for over a million dollars according to as her permanent conservator in 2008. photographer Daniel Ramos, who took part in snapping A conservatorship was ruled necessary in pictures of Spears over the years. Spears pleaded with pa2008 after Spears had spent time in the hospital parazzi to leave her alone when she was interviewed with for her mental health. As her conservator, Jamie Dateline in 2006, and when she was asked what she thought Spears has full control over his daughter’s life. Her it would take for the media to leave her alone, she began estate is in his hands, and he can dictate who conto cry and said repeatedly that she didn’t know but it was tacts Spears, make deals on her behalf, and can control how something she wished for. her finances are used. Conservatorships are only deemed Due to this portrayal of apparent desperation and hopelessnecessary when the conservatee is unable to manage their ness, it was absolutely appalling to hear Ramos claim that Spears seemed to enaff airs due to a decrease in their mental or physical ability. joy the paparazzi and never told them to leave her alone for long periods. Just a Creative Commons/ Metro (To read the full article visit www.fairfieldmirror.com) year later, when Spears shaved her head and lost custody of her children, Ramos

Society's Disregard Towards Disabled People Needs To End

By Kaitlyn Drake Staff Writer

People with disabilities have consistently been erased from many facets of life, including politics. Now, even though these individuals have pre-existing conditions, many are not on the priority list to acquire a vaccine against COVID-19. According to ABC News, “some states...are already vaccinating people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” however, individuals with physical disabilities or non-intellectual or developmental disabilities are not being acknowledged. As well as this, in some states, the wait for people with disabilities to get a vaccine increases each time a new list comes out. Many of these people have stayed indoors and followed every mandate out of heightened fear for their lives, more so than others, yet priority lists have not reflected the gravity of their underlying conditions during this time.

During the entirety of this pandemic, disabled people have fared far worse than others. In both the COVID-19 pandemic and past pandemics, studies show that it has been far harder for people with disabilities to get medical supplies to stay alive during these times than others. As well as this, as reported by the American Psychological Association, people with

Creative Commons/ Phys

disabilities “report higher levels of social isolation and loneliness” than others during the pandemic. Nonetheless, people with disabilities are still getting ignored by our government.

As stated on Connecticut’s official state website, the first phase of vaccines in Connecticut prioritized five groups: healthcare personnel, long-term facility residents, medical first responders, individuals 65 and older and residents and staff of select congregate settings. Phase two includes people with underlying medical conditions. It’s the same in other states like New York, which has more categories of eligible people, but people with medical conditions are only introduced in phase two. People with disabilities are categorized under people with underlying medical conditions.

In California, people with disabilities seem to be getting through to their government.

Through the hashtag “HighRiskCA,” many have taken to social media platforms to express their frustration with the situation. However, this was short-lived; California is now administering vaccines to people with disabilities on the basis of age. This is not fair to anyone, including people without disabilities, because it shows how little the government cares about this health crisis.

The real reason that disabled people keep getting pushed down is because we have continuously devalued them in society and have become complacent in their oppression. Offensive and insensitive comments, inappropriate interview tactics and ignoring people with disabilities are common forms of people without disabilities trampling over and oppressing those with disabilities, according to the Hearing Health Foundation. Vicitmisation, the unfair treatment and pity that comes after calling out an act of discrimination, is also a common form of disability discrimination. We should be aware of these as we move forward, both as individuals and as a nation with more people with disabilities than we think.

One of the worst parts of the pandemic for disabled people has been the staggering amount of job losses that they have faced. Employers are afraid to hire and retain people with disabilities during the pandemic because they believe that it would cost more to accommodate them during the pandemic. This is not only ableist, but it is a gross abuse of power and discrimination. People with disabilities did not choose to have a disability, and because of the system we live in, they must acquire jobs and capital like the rest of society. Without those opportunities, disabled people will, and have already, faced higher rates of poverty. The COVID-19 pandemic has ruined many financial situations, but for disabled people facing a job market with hiring discrimination, the situation is a lot worse.

The good news is that the Biden administration has been working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to make more inclusive outlines concerning prioritizing people with disabilities. The administration worked to release an extremely comprehensive plan to allow for greater access to the vaccines, and Biden himself signed executive orders to make sure his plan followed through. Hopefully, people with disabilities will get the justice they deserve in the healthcare system, but until then, we must stand in solidarity with the people who need us.

Right now, the best way to help is to listen to people with disabilities. Chances are, you know someone who is disabled, and making sure that they are heard is an important factor in their ability to receive justice. Elevating their voices instead of speaking over people with disabilities is another way for people without disabilities to help the cause. Educating oneself by reading articles, catching up on what people with disabilities are saying on social media and becoming more aware of the struggles of living with a disability can help one become more empathetic and able to properly ally with the disabled community. It is imperative to support all people, not just those without disabilities.

THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

Opinion

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U.S. Economy Cannot Handle an Increase in Federal Minimum Wage

By Brittany Misiora Contributing Writer The topic of raising the federal minimum wage has been increasingly important for Americans every year. A major question of focus has been, “Do you think Americans, working underpaid jobs, deserve to live better if they are working full time?”

Although it sounds easy and like a nice thing to do, this is a complex ideal that involves economics and the understanding of the structure of our great nation.

Numerous studies have been done on American workers’ opinions about whether they believe the minimum wage should or should not be increased. In a poll conducted by the Pew Research Center, about two-thirds of Americans, approximately 67 percent, support raising the federal minimum wage to $15 an hour. That study also reports that 41 percent of Americans support any kind of raise. Although support for this type of legislation is clear, it seems that there is also a deep partisan divide in Congress, which means making progress will be extremely difficult.

In order to make the right decision on this issue, Americans must remove their emotions and look at the facts, because once the minimum wage is raised, it will become almost impossible to bring down; therefore, the consequences will be everlasting. Raising the federal minimum wage is an extremely dangerous and leftist idea that is currently being debated in Congress.

At the moment, the minimum wage ranges from state to state; however, Democrats in Congress are pushing legislation that would affect the overall federal minimum wage raise which will impact all states.

What kind of effects would this have on our country? For starters, jobs will be cut. If the federal minimum wage is raised to $15 an hour, small businesses are going to be hit the hardest. Employers are not going to be able to afford paying multiple workers at such a high rate, and therefore jobs are going to be-

come limited. The people who work these minimum wage jobs, be alarming to everybody in America who believes in trying to for the most part, are young and inexperienced workers getting become part of the middle class.”

New Democratic President Joe Biden’s stimulus package their feet wet in the job industry, and they may then be out of a of $1.9 trillion dollars has included the raise to a $15 minimum job.

According to the Congressional Budget Office, as report- wage. This increase would gradually occur over the course of five years. Senator Bernie Sanders, who has been a ed by Vox, it could trigger a 1.3 million job loss for loud supporter of this bill for years, spoke on the low-paid workers. This would be detrimental to topic during a floor debate in the Senate. Acthe American economy and would damage cording to Business Insider, Sanders said all small businesses and low paid workhe would do “everything I can to make ers, increasing poverty. Currently, with sure that a $15 minimum wage is the coronavirus pandemic regulations included in this reconciliation bill.” in place, small businesses are already He also spoke out against the idea suffering due to lockdowns. With a that this bill would hurt American new law in place such as raising the workers during the ongoing panminimum wage, even more damage demic: “It was never my intent to would be done. increase the minimum wage to Not only would the increase $15 an hour immediately during in a federal minimum wage hurt jobs, the pandemic,” Sanders said. “My it would also increase the living conlegislation gradually increases the ditions in all states. Since workers will minimum wage to $15 an hour over be getting paid more, prices and labor costs will increase dramatically. In a state Creative Commons/ People First Portland a five-year period, and that is what I believe we ought to do." He is referencsuch as Arkansas this would be extremely ing the change that House Democrats have consequential to citizens’ livelihoods, compared made to bill. They have amended it to slowly to a state such as California or New York, where the phase in the raise. cost of living is more expensive. If any minimum wage increases No matter your opinion on this topic, it is important to should occur, then it should be on a state to state basis, not with consider all of the consequences of this major piece of legislalarge governmental action.

On Capitol Hill, Minority Whip Steve Scalise, a Repub- tion. In a capitalistic society, the fundamental idea of individuallican from Lousianna, released a statement claiming the bill ism and hard work needs to be present forever, in order to salwould be “devastating” for middle-class families, by citing in- vage our economy and values. Americans should remember the formation released by the Congressional Budget Office. “Think phrase that former President John F. Kennedy once spoke: “Ask about that, that’s the entire state of Oklahoma losing their job.” not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for Scalise continued saying, “The CBO report that came out should your country." you, ask what you can do for your country."

Fairfield's COVID-19 Regulations Are a Step in the Right Direction page allows you to see the COVID-19 Status Level of the campus and gives a detailed account of faculty and student tests given versus how many tests came back positive. While it is one of the most important and influential pages, it can also be deceiving.

Since March of last year, we have been on quite a journey. What started as news of a new virus I would like to compare the 2020 and 2021 dashboard notes, especially relating to how they outbreak in Wuhan, China slowly turned into one of the worst pandemics in over a century. Lockdefined surveillance testing. For 2021, the surveillance testing is defined as a process that, “Includes 100 downs, quarantine and isolation have become the norm in society, and it’s safe to say that ever since percent of the campus community per week for those who are learning or working on campus.” The March of 2020, the world has never been the same. Now, with over a year of experiencing this pandem2020 surveillance testing, however, was defined as one which, “Includes purely random sample testing ic and two million deaths worldwide attributed to the virus, it seems like a good time to walk through across the campus community.” While this is a small difference in wording, it defines a completely difFairfield University’s COVID-19 regulations for 2021: What restrictions have they put in place, how do ferent approach to testing. I highly criticize their 2020 surveillance testing because it did not include they plan to further mitigate the spread of COVID-19 on campus and have their efforts been effective?

100 percent of the population at Fairfield, which led to massive repercussions relating to the number of Are their regulations productive, or are they unusable? cases on campus. However, now that they have taken the initiative to test everyone on campus, I predict The University began the Spring 2021 semester by implementing a new two-phase move-in that the spread of the virus across the campus will be highly reduced. plan; students placed within Phase One moved in between Jan. 21 and 23 and Phase Two students Another important note is that they have increased the number of available quarantine rooms moved on campus Jan. 30 and 31. While simple, it was an effective strategy to reduce contact between from 114 to 175. In 2020, they relied more heavily on hotels: their housing was split between 64 rooms students. By staggering incoming students, they allowed for less contact between located in the Conference Center and 50 hotel rooms located in the Holiday Inn in Bridgegroups who were transporting their belongings and it effectively reduced the port, CT. In 2021 they have shifted to 128 rooms on campus and 47 hotel rooms. surge of students returning to campus.

Overall, I am quite pleased with the steps Fairfield has taken to improve security Another precaution they have taken is the implementation of the LiveSafe on-campus and work to reduce the spread of the virus. However, it is not just Fairfield Uniapp, making it mandatory for students, faculty and staff to fill out a daily health versity regulations that play a huge role in the mitigation of an outbreak. A major unconmonitoring questionnaire. Unfortunately, this app does not serve much purpose trollable aspect is the student body. Fairfield has put in place consequences for students who when protecting students from COVID-19 exposure. My first criticism is that it break the rules they have set. If you are found breaking any of the regulations that Fairfield is easy to lie when filling out the form, and it isn’t uncommon for students to use has set forth, it is very possible that they will remove you from campus and force you to screenshots of previously filled out forms. Secondly, most people who contract continue the rest of your semester online. In extreme cases, Fairfield has made the virus are asymptomatic between 2-14 days after exposure; during it clear that expulsion and dismissal from the University are viable options. this period, they are still effectively contagious, so whether or not Despite these consequences, it is still common to see students, and octhey are feeling healthy is a low-standard to rely on for personal casionally faculty and staff members, taking a lax approach towards following protection. the guidelines set by the University. For campus to remain COVID-19 free, One of the most useful pieces of information available on there must not only be strict regulation put in place, but also a student body the University’s website is their COVID-19 Daily Dashboard. This who is willing to follow the guidelines set by the University.

Creative Commons/ LiveSafe

By Tomas Di Leo Contributing Writer

Editorial Board "Swift Takes Back Control" Sheila McCombs Managing Editor

One of the fundamental parts of my personality is my absolute love for Taylor Swift, and I have never been shy about admitting this fact to almost anyone who will listen. So, these last couple of months of surprise albums, with the release of “Folklore” in July and “Evermore” in December of 2020, have been great for me. When I heard that she was finally going to begin the process of re-releasing albums and was releasing her recording of “Love Story” on Feb. 12, I was so excited. I immediately told my roommates and I was shocked that they didn’t know what I was talking about. So, I then proceeded to do a master class on why Taylor Swift is re-recording all of her old music, and I am now writing it down to share with you, along with why it is so important.

The most important definition in this story is of a music “masters” and what that includes and entails. Basically, a master recording of a song or an album is the original recording of it, or the first one to ever be released. Either an artist or, in the case of Taylor Swift, the record label the artist is under, owns the rights to these master recordings, which is how money is made off of songs. The master recordings are “lent” out to be played for a fee on streaming platforms, movies or whatever. Think of it like every time you hear these songs, it is because the owner of the master recording gave their permission for it to be played. These master recordings and the royalties they

produce are the major source of revenue from songs, which makes it easy to see why the question of who owns the rights to these recordings is such a hot button issue.

When the master’s rights to an album are owned by the record label and not an artist, the record label then agrees to pay a percentage of the sales of the master’s license back to the artist. This was the case for Taylor Swift in her deal with Big Machine Records. For an artist like Swift, who was worth 320 million dollars in 2019, these master’s rights produce an enormous amount of money. The record label owns the master’s rights to her first six albums and she was under a contract that said they would continue to own them while she was under the record label. When she left the record label, she could try and buy the rights to her songs. She left Big Machine Records in November of 2018, and this is when the drama began.

Swift wanted to buy the rights from the record label, and she was not allowed to make an offer on them for any amount of money. She was told flat out that they would not be sold to her. The record label is also under no obligation to continue to pay her a percentage of the royalties that those recordings produce, so anytime one of her songs (except the ones on “Lover,” “Folklore” or “Evermore”) gets played, she makes nothing from it. To make matters even worse, the record label sold the rights first to music producer

Scooter Braun, after saying they weren’t planning on selling them. Then Braun sold them to another music group, Shamrock Holdings, without offering them to Swift. Swift has now decided to re-record her first six albums, so that she will have recordings of those songs that she will own, and she has released her first of the “Taylor’s Version” songs with “Love Story” on Feb. 12.

She announced that she will be re-releasing her second studio album, “Fearless,” on April 9 of this year.

All of this comes back to the question of what ownership means and what a toll that greed can take on the creative process. At least to me, these songs fundamentally belong to Swift. The majority of them have been written by her about her own life experiences, and that's why they should be hers to own, or at the very least buy from someone else. These songs have also been an integral part of the lives of so many people, and they have been tied to the love that so many people have for Taylor Swift. I know nothing about the music industry, or contracts or all of the intricacies that are involved in being a singer-songwriter, but I have to say that the only motivation behind keeping these songs from her seems to be greed. Miss Swift said it best in her song from “Evermore” called “it’s time to go,” which is said to be about this dilemma: “ He’s got my past frozen behind glass, but I’ve got me.” I can’t wait to hear her new recordings, hopefully as soon as possible.

Creative Commons/Equally Wed

THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

The Vine

Page 8

A Final Moment with a Masterpiece: "The Death of Socrates"

lack of emotion and bowed head seem to signify the weight of Greece’s philosophical knowledge and responsibility falling onto him in the aftermath of the suicide.

David’s style and form is on full display with expertly defined musculature and elegantly flowing For those who read my columns every week, this is my last hurrah, my final issue. After all the drapery, both contrasting the sharp lines of the stone blocks and furniture. The masterful lighting also columns I’ve written this year, from Byzantine mosaics to Mesoamerican sculpture, I have introduced serves to dramatize the impassioned scene. artworks from many cultures and time periods. Though I’ve tried to touch on a wide array of art and isBeyond the clear artistic skill of the painting, I love its message and context in history. Rather than sues, I’m sure some of you have wondered what my favorite work of art is: I present to you Jacques-Louis leave Athens, recant his beliefs or stop teaching his followers, he took death willingly. It's not only a story David’s “The Death of Socrates.” of defending wisdom, philosophy and free expression, but of being principled enough to pay the ultimate Currently hanging in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this painting represents the pinnacle of neo- price in the service of those values. It is a truly inspiring tale and one that is executed so perfectly in this classicism and is undoubtedly David’s most famous work. The piece dates back to 1787, two years before piece. The reason for its temporal relevance is likely because the same sentiment whirled around Paris and revolution rocked France. Prior to the upheaval, Europe was enthralled by the art and culture of classi- its outskirts. The unjust treatment of French citizens by a heavy-handed government made this a strikcal Greece and Rome. The run-up to the ing parallel. The years following this work’s completion were tumultuous for France, with French Revolution coincided with buildwar, intervening autocrats and unstable efing tensions between classes and growforts at republicanism taking heavy tolls on ing authoritarianism of King Louis XVI. the people’s fight for liberty.

The scene depicts the legendary Greek philosopher Socrates, convicted For these reasons, I always make sure to stop by David’s “The Death of Socrates” by an Athenian tribunal for impiety and when I visit The Met, and a copy hangs over corrupting the youth. His punishment my desk at home to remind me of the power was death. Here we can see the old sophthat knowledge has, and what those have sacist sitting on a bed in a grim, dark, stone rificed to protect that power. chamber, holding up a finger of rhetorical authority in defiance as he reaches Though I have always left my readers with a parting task of questioning the way out for a cup of poisonous hemlock. we think and challenging the way we act, Those who surround him–his students I ask you now to do one final thing… find and followers–exude pain, sorrow and your work. Find the one that speaks to you, emotion at what is to be his final mothat you love for its beauty or its meaning, ments of life. The suffering is best shown that you would hang over your bed, your by the young man holding out the deadly desk or your mantle. The work of art–from cup to Socrates, who cannot even bear to any time period, style, artist or culture–that look at the solemn suicide. you admire, cherish and respect for whatever One character in this picture rereasons you have. That’s the beginning. That’s mains stoic and emotionless. Believed when your humanist within springs forth to be Socrates’ close follower Plato, who and you see art in a whole new light. You find was not present at his teacher’s death, he Photo Courtesy of The Metropolitan Museum of Art joy in it, and peace, knowledge and love too. is also marked by the scroll and ink on the ground next to him, symbolizing his Find your work. The rest will come as it may, and it always does. writing of the “Phaedo,” which immor"Death of Socrates" by Jacques Louis David (1787) talized the story of Socrates’ death. His

By Tyler Heffern Art Barn Columnist

By Peyton Perry Contributing Writer Sitting cozy in the beautiful DiMenna-Nyselius Library on this lovely morning, gazing at the softly falling snowflakes, I am excited to share with all of you my version of a guide to journaling! Journaling is one of my favorite hobbies, and I am a complete advocate for the notion that every human being, especially today’s youth, should keep and maintain a daily journal.

There are an infinite amount of benefits that come from journaling, and boundless directions one can take within the recreation. That is the true beauty of journaling, there are no restricting rules on where you may choose to venture! Further, journaling is often recommended for individuals struggling with anxious thoughts or who are feeling overwhelmed (something we have most certainly experienced throughout this challenging time!). Writing down one’s thoughts can often enable one to clear their head and pour out their emotions in a healthy manner. Plus, it’s always fun to look back on all your memories!

So, how do you start this whole journaling process? Well, that’s easy...you just have to begin! Head on over to your local store (my favorite is Target) and pick out a nice journal. You could also purchase a notepad, binder or a guided journal, where daily prompts are already provided to you. It is important to keep in mind that journals come in all different sizes, colors and styles, so make sure to pick out one that best suits you! I also recommend picking up some colored gel pens while you’re at it to help in making your writing a little more fun! It always brings a smile to my face when I spruce up my own personal journal with pretty visuals to accompany my writing.

Now that you have your journal, the next step is to become inspired. As I mentioned before, there are no real rules to journaling! Perhaps what excites you is poetry and you have all these glorious ideas in your head just waiting to come together on paper and foster magic… or maybe you have been feeling overwhelmed and need a safe space to convey what you’ve been feeling, lifting the weight off of your shoulders. It could also be that you encounter deep thoughts periodically throughout your day, and want to remember or build off of these perceptive ideas, so you write them down. All of these are completely valid angles to approach journaling! Who’s to say that you can’t also transcend into other areas, overlap your writing styles or alter your technique depending on what will be most rewarding for you during that day? Your journal is for you and you alone. It can be as informal as you would like it to be and it should be for your highest good!

I will say, though, that it’s beyond important to stay organized within your journal writing to receive the most positive effect. Some may prefer to be more organized than others in their writing, but there are a few aspects of journaling that should be practiced by all writers. One of these practices is to always place the date at the top of each page. You may not think so now, but this will surely help you one day when you are looking back at your work and want to recall the time of your life in which you felt each way. Further, even if your ideas are sporadic on paper, dating your writings creates a certain level of clarity and order that will help in creating a good mind space!

Another important tip is to establish a routine and make a habit out of your journaling. As Dee ex-

claims throughout “17 Journaling Tips for Beginners” in “Vanilla Papers,” it is essential to create a habit out of journaling. She even recommends getting an app to track the amount of time you spend each day journaling (something I may now actually take on myself). Humans love habits and routines. It helps our minds stay clear and allows us to be our most productive selves. It also grants us control over our time and how we choose to best utilize it. Try not to neglect your journal for long periods of time or subdue your thoughts. Rather, schedule it into your day, similar to how you would for breakfast, watching TV, spending time with your friends or working on school work. Prioritize your journaling over activities that may not serve as rewarding to your psychological health, and make sure to stay committed to your writing!

After all, these are your own beautiful ideas, and they deserve a little bit of time to materialize on paper.

That’s pretty much all I have to share in my guide to effective journaling! I wanted to make this guide as general and open as possible, as that is just how journaling works. The door of opportunity is fully open and you, as the writer, have free reign over your writing. Make it sporadic! Fill your pages with cosmic ideas! Pour out your heart and soul in whatever shape or form it may take! Just be you.

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

The Vine

By Sheila McCombs Managing Editor The joys of baking have taken over social media since the beginning of quarantine in March and I, for one, couldn’t be happier! I have been a baker since high school, but since college I haven’t really had the time. Most years I haven’t even had a kitchen to bake as much as I wanted to. That all changed when we got sent home last year, all of a sudden I had both! So, this last year I have dedicated myself to becoming a better baker and learning everything I can about baking through YouTube (Claire Safftiz is my guru), Instagram (@theboywhobakes) and just regular old recipes online (My New York Times Cooking subscription has received a ton of use). Here are the five things that I have learned this year that I think can help anyone become a better baker!

Baking is definitely a science!

They are definitely not kidding about how accurate you need to be when you are baking! I have learned how much a little bit of extra flour can alter the overall texture of something. You have to know exactly how much you need, especially when talking about the major foundations of the recipe, like flour, sugar or butter, because those things have the most effect on the final product. I finally invested in a food scale, and I am so happy that I did because measuring things out by weight is a much more accurate system of measurement!

That doesn’t mean you can’t go a little rogue!

When I first started baking, I was so scared to ever make any changes to the recipes that I was using. Even though baking is fussy when it comes to ingredients, that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with what you are making. Sometimes you are going to read a recipe and think, “This would be better with a little bit of vanilla.” As you get a little more confident in your abilities, you can add things that you think would work even if it's not in the recipe! I always go by the rule that if it’s not one of those fundamentals that I said, or the raising agent like baking soda, adding a little won’t change the outcome too much!

Work on learning techniques that always come up!

There are some baking skills that come up in a ton of recipes over and over again. This includes things like creaming butter and sugar, folding an ingredient into batter so it doesn’t lose its air or just being able to make a good frosting. Even basic kitchen abilities like good knife skills are helpful when it comes to learning to bake. These skills are the kinds of things that recipes will ask you to do and just expect you to know what they mean! When I first started to bake, I almost never got through the entirety of the recipe without having to google

one of the skills that was asked for in the recipe. Watch YouTube videos and practice these kinds of skills, because they will help you in the long term as a baker and a chef!

The importance of mise en place I cannot stress to you enough how much the French cooking practice of “mise en place” has helped me as a baker. This fancy sounding phrase roughly translates to “everything in its place,” and it means the practice of weighing out all of the ingredients in a recipe beforehand and having them out and ready before you even begin to cook.

This sounds like a lot, I know, but let me tell you it will save you from so much stress! When you are making something difficult or with a lot of time sensitive elements, having everything out prevents you from having to scramble mid recipe to weigh something out or find something. Between mise en place and making sure that you read the entire recipe through until the end, you are setting yourself up for success!

Remember, there is no baking you can’t do!

I was always so worried when I first started to bake about specific kinds of baking because I was so scared that I would mess them up. Things like making bread or French pastries felt like they were too difficult and that I would never be able to learn them or make anything like it.

However, the most important thing I have learned is that there is no baking that is too hard or too fussy that you can’t do with a little practice. Remember this is all for fun!

Even if you make a mistake, you can always try again! Happy baking!

Sheila’s Townhouse Kitchen Banana Bread!

Nonstick cooking or baking spray 2 cups of all purpose flour 1 teaspoon of baking soda ½ a cup of dark brown or just regular brown sugar ½ stick of room temperature salted butter ¼ a cup of plain greek yogurt, or sour cream (trust me!)

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2 eggs 1 ½ teaspoons of vanilla extract 1 ½ cups of mashed overripe bananas ½ cup of chocolate chips Some raw/demerara sugar for the top 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and spray a 9x5x3 inch loaf pan or any standard size loaf pan with cooking spray.

2. Measure out the flour and baking soda, and place in a bowl to the side.

3. Beat together the butter, sugar and yogurt (or sour cream) with a stand or hand mixer (or a wooden spoon and a friend because your arm is going to need a break). Once combined, add in the eggs one at a time. Then add the vanilla extract.

4. Add in the dry ingredients before adding the bananas and mix until just combined! (It’s okay if it’s a little lumpy!)

5. Then add in the mashed bananas and mix until just combined!

(Don’t overmix or your bread will get tough and chewy.)

Add in your chocolate chips, nuts or any other mix-in before pouring the batter into the loaf pan.

6. Bake for 55-60 minutes and then allow to cool completely before slicing (or you can do what I do, give in and eat it while it’s still hot)!

Photo Courtesy of @theboywhobakes

MCDORMAND MARVELS IN 'NOMADLAND'

By Tyler Zikias Film Columnist “Nomadland,” directed by Chloe Zhao, finally came out to be seen nationwide after what has felt like such a long build up. I first heard about “Nomadland” in August of last year, as it was being touted as the film to beat this awards season. With Chloe Zhao, director of the excellent “The Rider,” at the helm and starring Frances McDormand with her first leading role since her Oscar win for “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” this film had been high on my watchlist for quite some time. It was originally set to hit theaters in November, but was pushed back to February to both qualify for the Oscars and allow for more eyes to see it. The film was also released on Hulu, which is how I watched it, but this film is definitely an experience I need to have in a theater.

The film follows Fern (Frances McDormand), a “nomad,” traveling by van through the American West, stopping in communities of other wanderers and meeting new friends along the way. The film takes place right after the housing crisis of 2008, setting the scene for what is a harrowing, yet heartwarming look at a lifestyle to which some have been forced to acclimate. Fern is just trying to get by. She constantly works handy jobs in an Amazon warehouse, cleaning community restrooms and as a line cook in a restaurant, all to sustain her van in which she lives.

Frances McDormand is a complete rockstar in this movie. I would say give her an Oscar now ,but this year sees some pretty stiff competition for Best Actress. It is such an understated and cheerful performance from McDormand that is a complete 180 from her role in “Three Billboards.” Fern has no problem getting along with others and making friends in these communities, which breathes life into a film that could feel very cold and boring. She befriends locals

like Linda May and Swankie (both of whom were real nomads cast in the film) who are so authentically portrayed that, at times, I felt like I was watching a documentary. I rarely saw Frances McDormand because of how genuine and raw her interactions with everyday people were.

For about the first hour, “Nomadland” was my favorite film of the year by far. The slow pace, which is something I wouldn’t be a fan of to start a film, fit right in with the tone and environment Zhao was crafting. I felt completely at the mercy of the director, Zhao, pulling my emotions in just about every direction. It is perfect storytelling, as engrossing as the cinematography is stunning. I would go as far as to say that the first hour of “Nomadland” is perfect.

However, the film lost a little bit of its traction for me going forward. It is still great in its own way, but it starts to try and pick up the pieces of a narrative that was not really present in the first place. Fern has a past that she is still coming to terms with, but through the first hour, the knowledge of this past looms over each scene, adding a lot more context to who Fern is without completely revealing the information. As the film goes on, this information (which could have been assumed from the beginning) starts to come to the forefront of the film. It isn’t bad in the slightest, but it felt like a departure from the incredible slice-of-life piece that Zhao had established.

“Nomadland” was quite the treat.

I did not expect to enjoy the film as much as I did, especially its first hour. The film delivers a strong performance from Frances McDormand and slow scenes of character building.

I found the film at its very best when it was just being itself. The interactions with real nomads make the film feel so real that it does not feel like a piece of fiction that was crafted and adapted by a filmmaker, which is the biggest compliment I can give.

Grade: A

THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

The Vine

By Tatiana Ryan Contributing Writer

“Trigger” by Hayley Williams Only nine months after Hayley Williams’ debut solo album, “Petals for Armor,” dropped on streaming services everywhere, the Paramore lead singer surprised everyone by releasing her second album, “Flowers for Vases/Descansos.” While “Petals for Armor” was filled with rich rock and pop sounds (reminiscent of Williams’ Paramore hits), “Flowers for Vases/ Descansos” emulates the folk, country sounds of stripped back guitars. If “Petals for Armor” was an anger explosion, “Flowers for Vases” is what happens when the smoke of betrayal has cleared. Williams’ voice stands front-and-center throughout the album, anchoring the listener to the ache and loss in her voice. Track four, “Trigger,” is the stand-out on the record. The soft, repetitive guitar plucking allows the lyrics to emerge to their full potential, showcasing Williams as the brilliant songwriter she has always been. Williams says in the first verse, “All I ever had to say about love is a sad song/I get off on telling everybody what went wrong/It makes me feel like the pain had a purpose/Keeps me believing that maybe it’s worth it.”

“Chemtrails over the Country Club” by Lana Del Rey This is the first music she’s released since her masterclass album in lyrics, mood and connection, “Norman F***ing Rockwell,” which earned Del Rey two Grammy nominations for Song of the Year and Album of the Year. “Chemtrails over

Even though we’re only two months in, 2021 has already given us a ton of great, new music. Whether you’re looking for some new artists to listen to and love (Arlo Parks and Pink Sweat$) or you’re looking for some established artists to stream new music (Lana Del Rey and Taylor Swift), 2021 has brought it all. Here is a list and descriptions of the best songs to come out so far in 2021 from slow R&B jams to upbeat pop hits.

“Heaven” by Pink Sweat$ David Bowden, known by the name Pink Sweat$, dropped the lead single “Heaven” ahead of the release of his first album “Pink Planet,” which came out on Feb. 12. His music is a mix between the smooth, melodic voice of The Weeknd and bass lines reminiscent of HER. “Heaven” is a sleek, R&B ballad about the feeling of finding love. Pink Sweat$ gained a ton of popularity after the release of his EP “The Prelude,” and his most popular hit “At My Worst,” which even caught the eye of Kehlani, who joined Pink Sweat$ for a remix duet of the song which you can listen to on Spotify.

Music Video for "How Much Can A Heart Take?” by Lucky Daye featuring YEBBA “Love Story (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift It’d be nearly impossible to make a list of the best songs to have come out so far this year and not the Country Club” continues the picture-perfect duo of Lana include the immaculate re-recording of one of Taylor Swift’s Del Rey and Jack Antonoff, one of the most prolific writers and biggest hits, “Love Story.” On Feb. 11, Swift announced that producers of this day and age. “Chemtrails” echoes a similar the full re-recording of “Fearless” entitled “Fearless (Taylor’s sentiment to the one that Del Rey has been emoting since her Version)” will be released on April 9, and she dropped “Love breakout album “Born to Die”: a sentiment of Californian esStory (Taylor’s Version)” a few hours later. Swift’s vocals have capism and somber notes. This is Lana Del Rey doing what she matured so much over the past 13 years that listening to “Love does best, making you feel like you’re drifting in a boat off the Story (Taylor’s Version)” makes you think of the 18-year-old coast of an unknown island, contemplating your life’s choices. country star who wrote this song with no knowledge of how it “How Much Can A Heart Take? Feat. YEBBA” by Lucky would change her life and career, giving a brand new meaning Daye to the line, “We were both young when I first saw you.”

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Up and coming R&B artist Lucky Daye spent years and years working as a songwriter and back-up vocalist for other artists, such as Boys II Men, Ella Mai and Mary J. Blige, to name a few. Now he has made his own name by releasing his debut album, “Painted,” which earned him four Grammy nominations at the 2019 Grammys. On Feb. 11, 2021, Lucky Daye released his first EP since 2019, entitled “Table for Two.” The standout hit from this EP is his track two duet with YEBBA, entitled “How Much Can A Heart Take?” YEBBA, who has been featured on songs with famous artists like Sam Smith and Ed Sheeran, is known for her immaculate, heart-wrenching vocals. She now takes on Lucky Daye for this smooth R&B, reminiscent of something Alicia Keys would put out.

“Gasoline feat. Taylor Swift” by HAIM Soft rock/pop band, HAIM dominated the 2020 music scene when their third album, entitled “Women in Music Pt. III” was released last June. That album earned the sister trio two Grammy nominations for the upcoming 2021 Grammys, including Album of the Year. On Feb. 19 the group released the deluxe edition of “Women in Music Pt. III” featuring three new tracks and two remix duets of the songs “3AM” and “Gasoline” featuring Thundercat and Taylor Swift, respectively.

This marks the band’s second collaboration with Swift, the first being HAIM’s feature on track six of Swift’s ninth studio album, “evermore,” entitled “No Body No Crime.” “Gasoline” reaffirms the knowledge that HAIM is making music nobody else is making right now, with smooth vocals about infatuation mixed with a Californian-styled production.

“Overdrive” by Conan Gray Conan Gray’s debut album “Kid Krow” came out in March of 2020 and got to spot number five on the Billboard charts, making him the biggest new artist to debut in 2020. Gray was hailed as the new star child of pop music, with “Kid Krow” being filled with teenage angst and nostalgia, as the production was reminiscent of an 80s club scene. He was truly breaking-out for his standout hits “Maniac” and “Heather.” On Feb. 19, 2021, Gray released his brand new single, “Overdrive,” which is the driving in your car with the sunroof open and screaming the words in the shower pop hit the world needs right now.

“For Violet” by Arlo Parks 20-year-old British singer-songwriter, Arlo Parks released her debut album “Collapsed in Sunbeams” on Jan. 29, 2021.

Parks’ music reflects that of a coffee shop in the middle of Santa Monica. Her specific lyrics and dreamy voice are what you should listen to if you love Phoebe Bridgers, but she’s getting a bit too depressing for you. The song “For Violet” stands out most among the tracklist, with its subtle complex themes and hidden heartbreak. Parks is making a name for herself, her escapist lyrics and her cool demeanor all across the world.

M a r d i s G r a s P l ay s o n I n N e w O r l e a n s

By Matthew Adamski Contributing Writer

Every culture has some famous last hurrah before the sober period of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday.

Lent is a Christian observation that lasts for 40 days, until the night before Easter, which is also known as Holy Saturday. During this time, it is customary to personally give something up, such as sweets or promis-

Flickr

Yardis Gras Lawn decorated in New Orleans.

ing to watch less Netflix. One is also supposed to abstain from eating meat on Fridays. Increased prayer is also encouraged, and to use this time as an opportunity to get closer to one’s spiritual life.

One of the more famous celebrations takes place in New Orleans, and is known to all as “Mardi Gras!”

The word itself is French for “Fat Tuesday” (“mardi” for Tuesday and “gras” for fat). It marks an opportunity for Chrstians to indulge in sweets, fatty food, alcohol and meat before the 40 day period of fasting begins. In other countries “carnival” is the term for these pre-Lent festivities. That name comes from the Latin word for “carnelevarium,” which means “to remove meat.”

The history of Mardi Gras in the United States can be traced all the way back to the 17th century, when French explorers brought this tradition with them as they claimed land in the present day states of Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama.

The first recorded Mardi Gras celebration took place in Mobile, Ala. in 1703, which continued until New Orleans took the lead in 1803.

Characteristics of this celebration were masked balls, dinners and parties in the streets. In modern New Orleans, (pre-COVID-19) we could find similar images of huge parades, with plastic beaded necklaces being thrown from floats by equally colorfully dressed individuals.

However, as with most aspects of life, Mardi Gras in 2021 was not possible. Last year, over a million tourists appeared for the festivities. As a result, New Orleans became a hotspot and was attributed to thousands of new cases in the U.S. Since then, protective measures had to be taken. This year the scene will be different, as tourists are discouraged from coming in. If some people did decide to travel, there was hardly anything to do. Restaurants and bars were closed. Law enforcement set up checkpoints throughout the city, making sure social guidelines were maintained. The economic consequences were also felt, especially since New Orleans relies heavily upon the tourism industry from this time of year.

Though the restrictions are tough, it hasn’t stopped some members of the community from celebrating in their own way. The new trend known as “Yardi Gras” has popped up, where home-owners decorate their houses in bright colors, signs and parade-esque decorations. A parade, of sorts, for those walking down the street. That is a small way for New Orleans residents to keep up a tradition from the early days of the city’s history. It speaks to their will and spirit, to keep the good times rolling, even if it's from a distance.

Back in New England, here at Fairfield, Campus Ministry will also be having a special Lenten liturgical series. Follow this link to learn more if you’re interested: https://www.fairfield.edu/catholic-and-jesuit/ campus-ministry/index.html

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

The Vine

A S u rv i v o r ' s G u i d e t o t h e T ul l y

By Brooke Lathe Contributing Writer

The only thing I was dreading when returning to campus for the spring semester was going back to my meal plan, instead of having my mom’s home-cooked dinners. While we had plenty of options in the fall, some days I had a hard time finding something I liked, or I just didn’t feel like standing in the food truck lines in below-freezing weather. However, I was luckily in for a surprise when I found out that Fairfield University has brought back some of their pre-COVID-19 meal stations, which undoubtedly improved the dining choices and range!

The Daniel and Grace Tully Dining Commons has reintroduced their two ‘make your own’ counters, including a salad and deli buffet-style bar. These additions have been such a blessing for so many reasons. They’re both healthy alternatives, you can design both sandwiches and salads to your personal liking and it’s something you can never get sick of.

You can top your salad with a range of fresh and delicious ingredients too, like cucumbers, tomatoes, carrots, peppers, chickpeas, onions, crispy chicken, grilled chicken, cheese, croutons and more! The only thing I wish they had is homemade dressings, instead of the packaged ones–but I’ll take what I can get. Continually, the deli section has a multitude of different wraps and rolls, lunch meats, tasty sauces and other toppings. It would be a lie if I said I hadn’t gotten a wrap at least once a day since they’ve opened!

Another significant improvement that Fairfield dining has made this semester is making the sushi in the Stag Diner available to purchase with a meal swipe, instead of a dining dollar-only purchase! The amount of money I spent on sushi last fall was pretty insane, so this is the greatest gift they could have given me. Every roll I’ve gotten has always been super fresh and filling, so I know that if all else fails, I could at least still have my tempura maki as a backup any day.

If sushi isn’t your thing and you’ve eaten at the buffet stations too many times to count, you can still choose from the other dining venues, such as the food trucks, micro-markets, Dunkin or your dining hall meal of the day. Nevertheless, these changes have ultimately reassured me that you and I won’t go hungry this spring semester… or at least not any time soon!

Photo Courtesy of @fairfield_dining

Masked student stands at the Tully avocado toast bar.

I n k w e l l Sp ot l i g h t : T h e J ab b e r w o c k y ’ s Di d g e r i d o o

By Brandon Robles Inkwell Contributor

I crept from the small dwelling that broke the ground around me. Sand that didn’t fall, but instead compacted like snow as my feet crunched upon it. I walked around the desert of improbable nature following a crescent sun in the distance. As I wandered, flying telephones soared above me, the automatic responses echoing through the air.

It took me an hour to reach the forest of certain bewilderment, where I was greeted by a straw family on poles. Each one asked me how my day was while the youngest looked through my pockets for corn. Seeing that I was poor in their eyes, they chased me into the bubbling lake. It didn’t bubble out of heat, but bubbled for mini homes

began to dig through the sand. There, I saw the strangest instrument for a strange animal.

I couldn’t hear anything as it blew into it. The pink trees could as they curled unto themselves to stop the silent disturbance. The telephones crashed near me while their calls hung up. And even I could not stand it because I clenched my eyelids and held my hands to my ears.

Of course, I couldn’t see that one of the trees had gotten up and tripped. It crushed me under its weight as I woke up from the vivid realm. Frankly, I felt like I could never go back there.

Unless that lizard could figure out how to play an instrument.

of creatures to stay underwater. I swam away the second I saw the wacky lizard in one.

As I stumbled onto the shore, the lizard had followed me above. It had a disgusting amphibious face with whiskers dripping with water.

It’s extended neck was like a giraffe with a silly straw for a neck. I was fairly certain that it had some scaly bottom of an ostrich with giant bat wings. Frankly, it terrified me for a moment until it

Pexels

THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

Coffee Break

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COFFEE BREAK Editor: Tristan Cruz tristan.cruz@student.fairfield.edu

Harry Potter Word Search

The Coffee Break Team has put together a word search based on Harry Potter! Be sure to check back next week for more!

If you would like to submit ideas for word searches and games, DM us @FairfieldMirror on Twitter!

• Hufflepuff • Ravenclaw • Slytherin • Gryffindor • Harry Potter • Hogwarts • Goblet of Fire • Luna • Azkaban • Snape

• Quidditch • Hermione Granger • Draco Malfoy • Lord Voldemort • Ron Weasley • Hagrid • Dobby • Dumbledore • Hedwig • Scabbers • Half Blood • Pure Blood

Creative Commons / Pixabay

Puzzlemaker / Discovery Education

Due to Snow, Basketball Practice Held Over Zoom

By Nathan Schmidt This week, the heavy snowfall in Fairfield resulted in numerous in-person events moving onto Zoom — including the Fairfield Stags’ basketball practice. Each member of the basketball team was required to spend the entire practice session online with their video and audio turned on, practicing dribbling, passes and free throws inside their own residences on campus.

Head Coach Tanthony Treuvens said, “As soon as the death-plague sent by the wrathful powers of yore finally moves on from our wretched halls ... we’re gonna dive back in with a good strong hustle. That’s right, champs. First, you survived. Next, you’ll win. And that means practice at any cost. It’s like they say. You can’t make an omelet without breaking a few windows.”

The directive to practice indoors served the dual function of expanding brand awareness of the Fairfield Stags on campus, as students in dorm rooms were unable to avoid the noises of their peers’ basketballs thumping on the floor and walls. Reactions have been overall lukewarm, probably due to COVID-induced apathy towards every other living thing.

Business student Charles Mascarpone ‘23, speaking with Stagnation reporters from a dorm bathroom stall, commented on the situation: “Thank the Lord we don’t also have a bowling team.”

At the current rate, indoor practice will continue until either winter ends or the Stags win a basketball match of some kind. The smart money is on the match being held over Zoom as well.

r ape em p s h newheck t l a tiricre to c a s is a be su n o i o nat pus, s g a St cam on t! ou

Creative Commons / Pixabay

SPORTS Sports

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

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

This week, in Mirror history...

Photo Taken From The Mirror Archives

-

In this week's issue...

Catch Up With Women's Lacrosse Captains (Page 14) Young American Defenseman Dominate NHL (Page 15) Men's Basketball Cleans Up Agains Canisius (Page 15) Women's Basketball On Three-Game Win Streak (Page 16) Field Hockey Picked As Preseason Favorites(Page 16)

Sports

Page 14

THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

Catch Up With Women's Lacrosse Captains

olds ‘21. “It was sad honestly. We had seniors that had prior commitments, that couldn’t do a fifth year. It was definitely sad because we really didn’t have any closing.”

With a little over two weeks until game day, the FairThe women went on to discuss the difficult change and field University women’s lacrosse team is gearing up for their lack of structure following the school’s shutdown. season opener on Saturday, March 6.

“Going home and doing classes was weird enough and Last March, around the time of spring break, the wom- we really didn’t have any structure in our day. To add to it, en’s lacrosse team was traveling to Denver for a game before working out on your own is hard enough and on top of that the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference season began. Soon the gyms were shut down,” said Kelly Horning ‘21. “Not being after they returned, things took a turn for the worse. able to work out with our team was hard and the only contact “Two days later, at practice that morning, our coach we really had with them was through Zoom.”

Laura [Field] got a call, and it was basically from the MAAC With that abrupt ending to their season, after only [saying] that we were completely shut down and everyone had having played six games, the women were stripped of what to be sent home within the next two days” said Maggie Reynthey cared for most: the love of the game. Fast forward one year and things are looking up, even if competition may look a little bit different.

“Right now the MAAC has yet to determine if we can have fans. Honestly, they have yet to determine a lot of things, like if we have to wear masks or what happens if someone on our team or the other team gets COVID,” said Reynolds. “But, at the same time, we were just really happy we were able to play, and it does look like we'll get a full season in, which is really nice.”

For senior captains Maggie Reynolds and Kelly Horning, this is one of harder realities to face as a result of COVID-19.

When asked if COVID-19 has affected their daily routines as athletes, the captains implied that things were rather similar to years past. Practice is everyday 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., with lift twice a week. “ The only thing that is really different is our lifts are shorter and also with less people. It’s weird because we’ll be in the lift room and it’s only 12 girls or so, when we're used to having our entire team in there,” said Horning.

“It takes away that whole team camaraderie,” added Reynolds.

In times like these, it is much harder to bond and bring people together.

That is one of the biggest struggles as captains that Reynolds and Horning must deal with. They constantly battle with how they could possibly try to bring everyone together when they can’t physically be together.

The two stressed the difficulty of this and how important the team aspect was for them, especially as freshmen.

“We can’t do the team bonding Photo Contributed by the Sports Information Desk

By Madison Feely Contributing Writer

things that we normally would,” said Reynolds. “I remember when I was a freshman and very homesick and the girls, especially the upperclassmen, made me feel so much better.

You feel like you’re a part of something bigger than yourself.”

Both athletes stressed the great importance of teamwork, bonding and how much the sport has given them, especially at Fairfield. Although this season will be different, both women feel extremely grateful that they will play and they will finish their college experience on the field.

You can catch the Stags as they open the season on their home turf of Conway Field at Rafferty Stadium against intrastate rivals, Quinnipiac University on Saturday, March 6.

The first faceoff is slated to be at noon, and the game will be available for streaming on ESPN3 and ESPN+.

Photo Contributed by the Sports Information Desk

Defensive player Maggie Reynolds and midfielder Kelly Horning are two seniors who have been named captains of the Fairfield University women's lacrosse team for the Spring 2021 season.

Weekly 4x5

Your 2020-2021 4x5 Columnists:

Julia Lanzillotta, Catherine Santangelo, Sheila McCombs and Molly Lamendola

What is one thing you want to The NHL held outdoor games say that you haven’t gotten to this week. Do you prefer inin the 4x5 yet? door or outdoor games?

Is it fair for remote students to take tests online while others take tests in person?

If you could renovate The Mirror office in one way, what would you do?

Hi Mom and Dad!

I’ve only been to one outdoor game and it was the coldest I’ve ever felt, but it was also one of the best experiences. Still, I prefer indoor games.

Definitely not! We should all take tests in the same conditions. If I’m proctored but remote students can’t be, then we should all be remote on test days.

I would probably add a new Thank you for reminding me couch… since I broke the other why I love this paper and this one. job! You really have rekindled my passion for this and I will miss you so much!

The 4x5 may seem pointless to all of our readers, but I have always enjoyed it, and I will miss answering all of the fun questions next year :(

Outdoor games are super cool, and I’m currently watching one as I write this, but there’s something more exciting about the whole experience of seeing a hockey game in a stadium!

No way… that means that every test becomes an automatic open book/open note test for remote students, which is totally not fair.

There’s just an abundance of random stuff in that office that has no business being there, so I would love to just spend time organizing everything.

*instantly sobs* I will miss you all so much! Thank you for an amazing couple of years on staff...You three have truly made it an amazing experience.

OMG! I’m going to follow Sheila McCombs Lanz, I am going to give my Managing Editor sister, Casey, a shoutout! She is the reason I am able to do almost anything, and I am so lucky to have her!

I have never been to an outdoor game, but as a Rangers fan, I think I would miss the MSG vibes way too much!

I totally agree! I think it’s really important for everyone to have the same conditions!

I am with Lanz, we need some more comfortable seating in there! (Bring back my circle chair please!)

I don’t even know what to say!

I am so happy for all of the fun we have had and all of the things we have been able to accomplish together!

No shoutouts, let’s shout inwards. Also… I think these Molly Lamendola questions are always fun to answer, even if I look slightly Vine Editor unhinged in my responses.

I can’t ice skate.

Nope... people be committing academic dishonesty… you know?

Fish tanks.

OMG, Catherine has quickly turned into one of my favorite people. I know she said she didn’t leave big shoes, but it will be so hard to fill her position.

She’s the literal best!

Because we have witty things to say ...

Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor

Catherine Santangelo Editor-in-Chief

What’s your farewell message to our Editor-In-Chief, Catherine?

Sports

THE MIRROR | Week of February 24, 2021

Page 15

Young American Defensemen Dominate NHL

By Thomas Coppola Staff Writer

There are many talented young hockey players born and raised in the United States who have big dreams to play in the famed National Hockey League. Many must prove their skills to coaches and scouts around the world, and others are blessed enough with the natural gift to play hockey at an extremely high level.

Ice hockey in the United States is interesting since it allows players to be seen at such a young age; these incredibly talented players normally pursue a few different routes to get noticed. For Americans, it is common to play Division I Ice Hockey at a college or university. Many of these academic institutions offer generous athletic scholarships. After college, players will likely aim to enter the National Hockey League entry draft if they are eligible.

For other Americans, they choose to play in smaller, overseas leagues where professional scouts lurk around every corner. However, if life abroad is too daunting, many United States-born players travel up north to seek participation in prominent Canadian leagues like the Canadian Hockey League or the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

The ones that filter through the clutter are drafted or signed by general managers at the highest level; these players are sure to make a splash in the league. The National Hockey League’s official website curated a list of American-born defensemen under the age of 25 who they think will do just this within three seasons, and I’m here to tell you who belongs on this list (and who doesn’t).

One player included on this list is Vancouver Canucks defenseman Quinn Hughes, the older brother of the superstar centerman Jack Hughes. At only 21 years old, Hughes absolutely deserves his spot on this list, as I believe he will have the largest three-season impact on his team out of anyone on this list.

Not only is he a tough-as-nails defender who lets nothing get in his way, he is also no stranger to producing points. He leads the Canucks’ team in points with two goals and 18 assists, according to his official stats page. The multi-faceted menace that is Quinn Hughes is sure to light up the league in the next few years.

Although having a terrific first season, he came just shy of the Calder Trophy awarded to the rookie of the year. He lost to Cale Makar, another young defenseman in the league who plays for the Colorado Avalanche. Makar would have been my top pick for this list, but he was born in Canada.

The New York Rangers actually have two players featured on this short list, the first being Adam Fox and the second K’Andre Miller. After arguably one of the most rapid and successful rebuilds in hockey history only two years ago, the Rangers came back with a team full of young stars like these two defensemen.

Miller, who played hockey at the University of Wisconsin, racked up 40 points in only 62 games according to College Hockey News. Fox, on the other hand, is undoubtedly the oil the Rangers needed to get the machine working again. According to the same article by nhl.com, Fox had the most on-ice time out of any Rangers player, with 24:53 on average!

I believe that these three players will likely be the ones to lead their team to victory within the next three seasons, and I absolutely agree with the National Hockey League’s picks. However, I believe that one standout player was left off this list, and one maybe should have been left off of this list.

Another team that went through a rampant rebuild process recently was the Winnipeg Jets, who, like the Rangers, have a squad stacked with fresh talent. The cream of the crop on this Canadian team is none other than Neal Pionk, who has been thrown into a position to be the go-to guy for this Jets team.

In my opinion, the 25-year-old is a huge sleeper pick for this list, but I think that he truly belongs here. In a different article, the league rated him number 25 out of the 50 best defensemen in the league.

The Nebraska native has only put one goal in the back of the net this season, but according to his official stats page, he has connected with his teammates for nine assists so far. Even though this may seem like a slow start for the selfless player, do not count him out; in three years, I am sure he will be playing on a top defensive pairing and achieving his full potential.

On the flipside, I believe that one player on the list is a bit of a stretch. This would be the Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jakob Chychrun.

Do not get me wrong, Chychrun is a brilliant offensive player. But, that’s just my problem: the Coyotes need more defense. In their questionable goalie situation, defense is more important than ever to ensure that they are protecting your netminder. The Coyotes’ offense is pretty solid, and they need more people to step up on defense, something I think Chychrun has not done enough of.

If the Coyotes are able to perform a fairly successful rework of their team over the next two years, I think Chychrun’s potential will be boosted, but I ultimately disagree with the NHL’s prediction for now; until Chychrun’s offensive tendencies cool down, I’m not entirely convinced. It is far too early to call.

All around the league, young superstars are making their mark on their respective teams and proving that success is in the horizon.

The names that the league cited are sure to be very valuable in the years to come, but in all corners of our country, kids are working to rewrite history and cement their name on this list one day.

Photo Courtesy of @nyrangers on Instagram

Adam Fox of the New York Rangers has seven points in 16 games played this season.

Men's Basketball Cleans Up Against Canisius

By Zachary Stevens Contributing Writer The Fairfield University men’s basketball team hosted the Canisius Golden Griffins at Alumni Hall this past weekend. They faced one of the best offensive teams in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference in a doubleheader on Friday, Feb. 19 and Saturday, Feb. 20 on a historical stage that will not soon be forgotten in campus history.

Going into the series, the Stags had a record of 5-14 overall and 5-9 in the MAAC, while the Golden Griffins were 5-3 in the conference, as they played no outside conference games due to COVID-19 restrictions.

This doubleheader between the Stags and Golden Griffins marked the last home game played on George Bisacca Court at Alumni Hall. The court was built in 1959, and has been an iconic part of the Fairfield campus. The Stags looked to leave Alumni Hall on a positive note, with a big win against a well-rounded Canisius squad.

On Friday, Feb. 19, the Stags began the game with energy and defensive intensity. With the help of big men Supreme Cook ‘24 and Tshiefu Ngalakulondi ‘22, Fairfield took an 11 point lead 12-23, with 8:38 remaining in the half.

The Golden Griffins, a team accustomed to playing from behind this year, withstood Fairfield’s pressure, diminishing the deficit to only four points at the end of the half. The Griffins had a real strong contribution from their bench, with Majesty Brandon ‘21 and Malek Green ‘22 scoring a combined 12 points in the first half.

The momentum of the first half was quickly transitioned from the

Stags to the Golden Griffins in the second, as the Stags struggled with turnovers (15) and became stagnant on offense. The Griffins took the lead with 14:21 remaining, and seemed to control the rest of the game.

Canisius’ Green played the best second half of his life, scoring 19 points, finishing with 29, a career high.

The boost from Canisius’ bench, lack of offensive efficiency and turnovers were the downfall of the Stags and prevented them from getting a much needed win. The Stags came away with a tough loss of 80-69, giving the Griffins a chance to go on a six game win streak, which would be their largest winning streak in three years.

Saturday, Feb. 20, the Stags came into the matchup looking for revenge and to fix their offensive struggles. Thanks to Jesus Cruz ‘21, who scored 13 first half points off the bench, the Stags were able to maintain a comfortable lead going into the break at 33-21.

Along with Cruz, the Stags’ big men Zach Crisler ‘23, Cook and Chris Maidoh ‘23 dominated the paint, giving the Stags a big advantage on offense.

They also caused many problems for the Golden Griffins on defense, as they were bothered on most shots inside and couldn’t find a rhythm on offense because of the pressure.

The Stags held one of the best offensive teams in the MAAC to only 53 points on 33 percent shooting, showing how committed the team is to coach Young’s system.

The offense was also clicking on all cylinders for the Stags, causing the combination to be too much for the Griffins to handle.

The Stags won this battle 53-66, in a great overall team performance. Cruz led the Stags with 17 points and two steals off the bench. Along with Cruz, Jake Wojcik ‘22, leading scorer, had another solid game with 16 points. Green led the Golden Griffins with 14 points in another solid performance.

The Stags hosted a home game for the last time at Alumni Hall this past Saturday, and the team paid it tribute by ending with a dominant victory over a strong Canisius team. This win shows the resilience of this team, but also the true power it possesses.

When Fairfield is clicking on all levels, like they were on Saturday night, they are a tough team to beat. The Stags now have a record of 6-15 overall, and 6-10 in the MAAC. The University plans to build an 85,000-square foot, 3,500-seat Convocation Center at the current site of Alumni Hall, projected to open in 2021.

The Stags will travel to New Jersey next to face the Monmouth Hawks on Feb. 26 at 5 p.m. The Stags will need to bring their best basketball game, as the Hawks are top of the MAAC and have a very dangerous team.

Photo Contributed by the Sports Information Desk

Senior guard Taj Benning added 15 points to his season total of 254 on Friday, Feb. 19th, against the Canisius College Golden Griffins. He has started in 21 games this 2020-2021 season.

@Fairfield Mirror Week of February 24, 2021

fairfieldmirror.com

SPORTS 16

Women's Basketball On Three-Game Win Streak can work together, especially under pressure. The Stags pulled through in the fourth quarter, continuing their lead.

Sophomore guard Mackenzie Martin sunk the ball in the net. Fairfield kept their energy The Fairfield University women’s basketball team has officially rounded out their Metro up the rest of the game leading them to the end with a win. Their amazing defense ended Atlantic Athletic Conference schedule for the 2020-2021 season. The Stags women’s basketball with 49 rebounds and 7 steals. The top scorers of Saturday’s game were Hernangomez with 15 team has faced several challenges this season regarding COVID-19 cases, postponed games, etc. points, Lopez-Senechal with 13 points and redshirt junior Callie Cavanaugh with 12 points. As The women’s basketball team bounced back from their loss against Quinnipiac University durfor Monmouth, Belle Kranbuhl had six points and Ariana Vanderhoop had four to the game. ing the week of Feb. 15 with three wins against Iona College and Monmouth University.

The final score was 51-21, with the Stags taking the win, their second in a row, on their home On Wednesday, Feb. 17, the women’s basketball team traveled to Iona for their 12th court. game of the season. The Gaels had a head start in the first quarter with a made layup in the first The Fairfield Stags kept their firing energy going against Monmouth. They played at home 30 seconds. About two minutes into the game, Andrea Hernangomez ‘22 assisted Lou Lopezthe afternoon of Sunday, Feb 21. It was a tough weekend for the Stags. Not only is Monmouth Senechal ‘22 to hit a two-point jumper. Fairfield a competitive team, but due to COVID-19 had been down 11-2 in the first quarter, but contact tracing, three athletes on the Fairfield their defense strategies kept them in the roster were not permitted to play. There was a game from beginning to end. Fairfield guard lot of pressure on the rest of the team but they Rachel Hakes ‘22 ended the first quarter with a pulled through with another win. three-point shot. The first quarter ended with The first half started with a bang when Fairfield taking the lead, 20-15.

Hakes assisted Lopez-Senechal in sinking a The second quarter started with a bang three pointer. There was a lot more action going from Eden Nibbelink ‘21 with her three-point on in this game, with Monmouth holding their jumper. The Gaels were then traveling behind ground throughout the first half. Both teams the Stags eight-point lead. The Stags kept the were fighting for this game. Martin scored a quarter going with continuous rebounds which jumper to end the first quarter with a score of pushed Iona to end the second quarter with 20-9 in Fairfield’s favor. Fairfield continued with seven turnovers. Fairfield led the first half a fight during the second quarter by adding against the Gaels with a comfortable score of numbers to the scoreboard. They fought hard 34-25. to make sure that they would not be the reason Fairfield opened up the second half for the last loss in Alumni Hall. Not only was widening their lead against Iona. Despite the Fairfield keeping up with their offensive tactics, scores cutting pretty close, Fairfield kept their but their defense was pulling them through as fire up by ending the third quarter with a sixwell. The first half of the game ended with 18 point lead. The fourth quarter opened up with rebounds and six steals.

Hernangomez scoring a layup. That did not The second half is where Monmouth stop Iona from pushing their way up the scorebegan to put up a tougher fight. Fairfield board with a lead of three points, five minutes still had the lead throughout the quarter, but into the final quarter. Fairfield fought their way Monmouth showed they were not going to back onto the charts with Hakes’ free throw give up. The third quarter ended with Fairfield shot ending the game with the score of 63-56. and Monmouth each adding 11 points to their Hernangomez ended the game with 13 points, scores. The fourth quarter showed how comLopez-Senechal and graduate student Katie petitive both teams were. Fairfield killed the Armstrong had 11 points. The lead scorer for boards defensively and offensively. Stags made Iona was Juana Camilion with 15 points.

20 points in the fourth quarter keeping them in Fairfield ended the game with 42.3 the lead. percent field goals, 45.5 percent three-point Coach Frager had some words regardshooting and 90 percent at the free-throw line. ing the fourth quarter, saying that, “Our legs The Stags came out with a score of 63, while the started to get heavy. You can see the offensive Iona Gaels fell behind with a score of 56.

Photo Contributed by the Sports Information Desk end and the defensive end, but credit to MonThe Stags then began their weekend mouth, they never quit.” looking to build on their winning record, playThe ending score was 60-46. Lopezing at George Bisacca court at Fairfield’s own Redshirt junior Callie Cavanaugh scored 25 points this weekend against Monmouth University.

Senechal was the team’s high scorer this game, Alumni Hall against Monmouth University. On having 23 points. Cavanaugh made waves with Saturday, Feb. 20, the Stags played their 13th game of the season. Lopez-Senechal opened up the 13 points. Fairfield ended the game with 39.3 percent field goals, 28.6 percent three-point shootquarter with a two-point jumper assisted by Hakes. The Stags were starting their game off strong ing and 38 rebounds. Fairfield ended the game with a win, yet again. Making the Fairfield comwith their defensive tactics making it hard for Monmouth to score. Monmouth scored two munity very proud of their hard work this weekend under all the circumstances. points in the first two quarters. The first half ended with Fairfield having a 16-point lead against Coach Frager spoke about the team’s weekend performance saying, “I am thrilled with the Monmouth. way everything turned out.”

Fairfield did not let the first half lead affect their mindset though. The second half opened The next time the Stags will face competition will be on Monday, March 8 when they look up with Lopez-Senechal scoring a three-point jumper followed by a layup scored by forward to compete for the MAAC Championship tournament in Atlantic City, N.J. Hernangomez. Monmouth was fighting back and putting some numbers on the scoreboard. The score for the third quarter was 31-15, with Fairfield still in the lead. Fairfield showed how they

By Kayla Amelung Contributing Writer

Field Hockey Picked as Preseason Favorites

By Emily Miller Contributing Writer

The Fairfield University field hockey team was selected as the unanimous preseason favorite in the Northeast Conference Coaches Poll. Head coach Jackie Kane and the team are honored to be selected as the preseason favorite.

Coach Kane shared, “The team has high expectations for not only their field hockey performance, but for continued academic excellence.”

This achievement is well-deserved for the Stags, as they are coming off an electric 2019 season, capturing the regular-season and tournament titles. Coach Kane disclosed, “We have been working hard to uphold this title and be ready to compete this spring.”

Coach Kane begins her 26th season with the Fairfield University field hockey program, serving as the team’s head coach since 1995. Kane and her coaching staff were honored as the Coaching Staff of the Year by the Northeast Conference, selected by vote of the NEC coaches. The decorated coach has won more games than any other Fairfield field hockey coach, coming into this season with 207 victories.

In 2019, the Stags tied the program record for seven consecutive wins in the regular season, and eventually soared past the record with 12 straight victories. They finished with a 16-2 record during the regular season, and ended the season with an overall mark of 19-3. The team was ranked in the national poll throughout the 2019 campaign, reaching as high as 23 in the nation before settling into the 24th position by the end of the regular season. The team is hungry for a chance to defend their title and make history once again, starting on Thursday, March 18 at Sacred Heart University.

Fairfield will play a single round-robin schedule that will include seven matches over five weeks. The NEC Championship match will be played the week of April 19-24 with the number one seed hosting the number two seed to determine the conference's automatic qualifier to the National Collegiate Athletic Association tournament.

“We are all pushing each other to win another conference tournament and return to the NCAAs,” added Kane. “We are excited about who we are as a team, and how far we can go.”

The Stags will hit University Field, right on Fairfield’s campus, to face off against the University at Albany Great Danes on Tuesday, March 9 at 3:00 p.m.

This will be their first competition in over a year, since they got eliminated in the first round of the 2019 NCAA Championship by the University of Connecticut Huskies.

Photo Contributed by the Sports Information Desk

Coach Kane's team has been honored to be selected as the NEC preseason favorite.