Sri Lanka
Cinifest at the Quick
Opinion
Vine
Women’s Tennis Sports
The Sri Lankan government is to blame for Easter bombings.
Students present their work in Cinifest at the Quick Center.
Women’s Tennis takes MAAC by storm.
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THE MIRROR Independent student newspaper
Week of May 1, 2019
Vol. 44 Iss. 24
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More Than Two Friends at Clam Jam Sold out annual beach concert event features DJ duo By Daniel Messier Assistant News Editor
The annual Clam Jam event boasted some star-studded talent on April 27 as students gathered at Penfield Beach Pavilion for food, drinks and live music. “It was incredibly successful, we sold out within 3 days of all tickets going on sale,” wrote Fairfield University Student Association Vice President Matthew Marshall ‘19, who helped organize the event. Clam Jam is usually solely sponsored by the The Beach Resident Advocacy Group, but this year decided to include the opinions of representatives from the Fairfield Beach Residents Organization and the Fairfield University Student Association. The representatives helped make decisions regarding ticket pricing, food and drinks as well as artist selection. Among the performers at the event were Willy G, Tano | Mark and Two Friends. Two Friends, a Los Angeles based DJing duo was the headliner for the event. The duo is known for songs such as “Out of Love,” “Emily” and “Big Booty Remix,” which all have millions of plays on Spotify. The selection of Two Friends is reminiscent of when The Chainsmokers played Clam Jam in 2015 before their rise to stardom.
There were 1774 tickets sold total, and 1676 were scanned at the event. Clam Jam was not without incident this year either, as DPS reported that there was one student transported, two citations for students using open containers, and four students removed or ejected. The weather was less than ideal for a day at the beach, with clouds, rain and cold temperature putting a slight damper on the event. This did not stop any of the artists from performing, however. “Willy G started off the day DJ-ing for the first few hours, Tano | Mark came on for a 30 minute set and then Two Friends played for an hour,” wrote Marshall. Some students were upset about the length of the line. “I thought it was a lot of fun and worth it but the wait in line was very long and frustrating,” said Amy Polewaczyk ‘19. “Something should be done in the following years to ensure that it does not occur again.” “People were pushing in line and that was rude,” added Rebecca King ‘19. King also noted that the price for the event, $65 for seniors, $70 for juniors, and $80 for senior guest tickets,
was too high. “[The event was] overpriced, not worth it,” she wrote. Since last year’s event, the price of seniors’ tickets increased by $25, juniors’ by $10 and guests’ tickets by $20. In 2017, Clam Jam was sponsored by Red Bull, who provided free drinks as well as the tents and stage for the event. Red Bull did not return to sponsor the event in 2018, and ticket prices have steadily increased. Marshall acknowledged the pushback from students about the ticket prices, but ultimately believes the prices were justified. “Initially there was a slight pushback over the price, however that quickly dissipated and I think everyone who bought a ticket saw the value in having 3 artists, unlimited food, and beer/cider for those 21+ years old,” wrote Marshall. Ultimately, it seems Clam Jam will continue to be a great event for outgoing seniors to celebrate their time at Fairfield University. “Clam Jam is really supposed to be a final send off as classes start to end and based off this past Saturday, I think everyone truly had a great time and signified the start of summer!,” wrote Marshall. “I have a hard time trying to find improvements or changes for the future.”
Photo taken from Two Friends Instagram
Two Friends duo members Eli Sones and Matthew Halper playing at the Clam Jam concert event, FUSA Vice President Matthew Marshall poses from behind the stage.
News
THE MIRROR | Week of May 1, 2019
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Students Sink or Swim in Shark Tank
Competitors receive up to $10,000 from investors for startups By Mimi Loughlin Contributing Writer The 8th Annual Fairfield StartUp Showcase highlighted student entrepreneurship at Fairfield. On Thursday, April 25, 2019 at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts, investors promised $30,000 to student entrepreneurs to develop their businesses. Master of Ceremonies, Chris Hamer, Founder and CEO of CrowdFlik, led the event with fervor and excitement. Autodolly won $10,000 as the first place winner of Fairfield StartUp Shark Tank. As stated on their team page, AutoDolly is an affordable camera motion control device for independent filmmakers on a budget. It provides camera movements with minimal pre-programming so the focus can be on creativity and flow. Senior Michael Lynders said he had the idea for AutoDolly because filmmaking is one of his passions. The team filed the patent for their invention three hours before the competition. One notable aspect of the AutoDolly team was their diversity of perspectives: Lynders is an electrical engineering major, Kasper Laska ’18 is a robotics engineer, Matthew Fanelli ‘19 is an accounting major, and Parth Bhavsar, an MBA student. The second place winner of the competition, Urban Harvest, received $7,000 from investors. Urban Harvest is described by its founders, Michael Spillane ’19 and Anthony Mastrocola ‘19, as a “city-friendly agriculture solution that provides fresh, local, and affordable produce year-round to urban areas that national grocery chains don’t reach.” Urban Harvest utilizes hydroponics, growing produce in water, and plans to reach out to local Bridgeport communities accepting Supplemental Nutrition Assurance Program credits. According to Mastrocola, hydroponics “adds a whole new dimension to the locality and seasonality of agriculture.” SheIsArt received $10,000 from investors. As stated online, SheIsArt is a digital magazine that seeks to uplift and unify women of color by demonstrating that every woman is art and has a compelling Second place winners Michael Lynders and Matthew Fanelli.
story. Junior Candace Peterkin, creator of SheIsArt, received $5,000 towards the magazine from investor Dagan Kasavana ’99 after her initial pitch to the investors. SheIsArt, with team members Kerry Clarke ’19, Romel Maldonado ’19, Sam Menello ’20, and Antan Mills, also received $5,000 for winning third place in the competition. Alumna Emily Yale ’18 and Jacob Beam ’21 received $3,000 in seed money for their business, Sketch2Market, which Yale described as a one-stop-shop for getting new business products ready to market. Sketch2Market produces finished, 3D-printed products. Yale previously participated in 2018’s Shark Tank Competition, winning $8,500, plus $10,000 in investor pledges for LandMaverick, a robot designed to revolutionize the way soil sampling is conducted in the agricultural industry. Throughout the competition, she was continuously referred to as a “serial entrepreneur.” At the start of the competition, investor Bob Dorf, a world-renowned startup coach, author and educator who has founded seven startups and teaches at Columbia University, praised Yale for her drive and her persistence to continue founding startups. While the judges were deliberating on the results of the competition, 2018 StartUp Showcase competitor Diandre Clarke ’18 gave the audience an update on her business, Belle. As stated in the 2019 StartUp program, Belle develops mentoring programs to help young women build a personal support system through workshops, mentorship and counseling to strengthen their self-esteem. Each of the teams in the StartUp Showcase developed their businesses throughout several workshops and events such as an elevator pitch contest and business model workshop where students formed teams, recruited mentors and honed their business plans. “The StartUp Showcase program shows our students’ true dedication to entrepreneurship and innovative spirit,” said Zhan Li, dean of the Charles F. Dolan School of Business, “The students take what they have learned from our nationally ranked programs and create businesses that are tangible. I have no doubt that these students will make lasting impacts in their communities.” Photos taken from the Dolan School of Business Instagram
Candace Peterkin, creator of digital magazine SheIsArt.
Rosivach’s Research Revitalized by Students By Daniel Messier Assistant News Editor
Students Olivia McEvoy ‘19 and Alec Lurie ‘19 carried on the legacy of the late Vincent Rosivach Ph.D., as they presented the work the three had done to document the history of slavery in the town of Fairfield. The two students presented their findings, methods of research and culminating database in the Dimenna Nyselius library multimedia room on Wednesday, April 24. One goal of the project was to highlight the presence of slavery in Fairfield, a topic of which many might be unaware. “I think one of the best parts of the project that the impact that it has on the town of Fairfield,” said McEvoy via email. “In general, there are so many misconceptions about Northern slavery, and many people tend to forget that slavery was as widespread an institution in the North as it was in the South. This, coupled with the fact that so much of the information about a particular slave in Fairfield could be spread across 5-6 separate documents, means that our work is really bringing to light a narrative so hidden away in our previous studies of the past.” The Fairfield Slavery Project was a large part of Rosivach’s work before he passed away on April 13, 2018. His tenure at Fairfield University lasted 53 years. According to the Fairfield University website, “For 53 years, [Rosivach] dedicated his life to fostering the minds of his students, inspiring fellow professors, and embracing what it means to teach at a Jesuit institution. Over the course of his professional career, he immersed Photo taken from DiMenna Nyselius Library Instagram himself in literature and education and inspired others to do the same. He authored two books Lurie and McEvoy present the late Rosiavach’s work about the largely unknown and unresearched histories of slaves in Fairfield. in addition to more than 120 articles and reviews work will have [a] lasting impression on how members of the Fairfield community view within the field of classics.” their town,” wrote Anna Kamradt ‘19, who was in attendance. The culmination of the work is a database that contains information on former “Cataloging slaves in this nature is the beginning of a wave in specific individuals slaves and slave owners, or “households,” as the project calls them, that resided in the who might’ve been previously overlooked now find their stories told and preserved. I can’t town of Fairfield. This database will reside on the DiMenna Nyselius website, where it can wait to see how this work inspires other projects in the future. Dr. Rosivach would have be accessed by Fairfield University students and faculty. A reception followed the presentation, in which guests were welcome to explore the database.The project and the database been so proud.” McEvoy and Lurie also presented this information the following day, April 25, at the annual Innovative Research Symposium. appear to open the eyes of those who interact with it. In terms of the future of the project, Lurie and McEvoy are hopeful that their work “Since the launch of our site, there have been numerous people who have told Alec can be continued. “ This research can never truly be done because there are definitely and I that their perspectives on Fairfield have begun to change,” said McEvoy. “Whether instances where slaves were not recorded by their owners, and are therefore lost to our it being more cognizant of the fact that there were instances of slavery in this town, or if records forever,” concluded McEvoy. they are more aware of the history of many of Fairfield’s most famous residents (many of “The next student to take on the project has an equal amount of autonomy to figure whom were slave owners), I think that our project is generation necessary conversation out what to do next, as they can focus on whatever aspect of life in Fairfield relating to about our understandings of the past.” slavery they would like.” This sentiment was clearly felt by those in attendance for the presentation. “This
News
THE MIRROR | Week of May 1, 2019
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The Mirror Reects on this Week in Social Media Compiled by Julia Monteleone Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety. Wednesday, 4/24 9:12 a.m. There was an incident of narcotics possession in Jogues Hall. The student was referred to student conduct. 5:17 p.m. There was an incident of narcotics possession in the Canisius Hall parking lot. The student and non student were referred to student conduct. 5:54 p.m. Due to heavy winds, a blue recycling bin blew into a vehicle in the Regis Hall parking lot causing damage. Friday, 4/26 11:12 p.m. A hit and run was witnessed on 42 Mahan Road. Both operators were identified. Police involvement was declined and it was handled internally. Saturday, 4/27 12:47 a.m. A disorderly conduct was reported at the townhouses while officers were dispersing a party. The student was referred to student conduct. 3:58 a.m. Several individuals were observed dancing on the overhang roof above 42 Mahan Road. The students were identified and referred to student conduct.
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Achievement Awards Showcase Students By Julia Crews Assistant News Editor
Recipients of the Student Achievement Awards of 2019 were honored on the afternoon of Monday, April 29 in front of a backdrop of blooming cherry trees, which could be seen through the windows of the presentation room in the Aloysius P. Kelley, S.J. Center. The event began around tables of refreshments and appetizers as attendees gathered and helped themselves to assorted vegetables and dip, spring rolls, bread and cheese. Murmurs of “congratulations!” and “thank you for coming,” spread through the room as attendees and awardees arrived. Soon, they took their seats and the ceremony began, and Susan Birge, associate vice president for health and wellness, stepped up to the podium to introduce the president of Fairfield University Mark R. Nemec, Ph.D.. “What we are celebrating here is Fairfield at its best,” said President Nemec, welcoming the students and their supporters. “We are celebrating our students at their best. Our students who embody not just all that we’ve been but all that we’re going to be.” Birge prefaced that the achievement awards would go to “seniors who have shown exceptional dedication to and enhancement of a specific Fairfield University program, activity, organization or project. These seniors’ commitment to this activity has resulted in the activity’s new level of achievement that wouldn’t have been possible without them.” Kathleen Byrnes, campus minister for social justice and community engagement, introduced Kathleen Curry ‘19 and Laura Hart ‘19, the first recipients of the student achievement awards for their commitment to open and civil dialogues as co-presidents of Students for Life, a club on campus with a pro-life mission. “Their passion, love, and clarity of vision is a refreshing take on an issue that is often seen as a battleground for both sides.” Curry and Hart spent their acceptance speech reflecting graciously upon their involveJulia Crews/The Mirror ment and leadership of Students for Life on campus. “Leading Students for Life has allowed us to grow in our commitment to the open and civil dialogue for which we are receiving our Elisa Castelli accepts the highest honor of the night, the St. Ignatius Loyola Medal. award this evening.” posure as she began her speech by thanking those who have supported her, saying, “Oh my Then Jeremy Kaler, associate director of the Office of Student Engagement presented gosh, I’ve been really emotional,” and earning a collective laugh from the audience. the next award to Brian Daley ‘19, receiving his award for his commitment to student engageReflecting on her time here, Williams recalled going from class to volleyball practice, ment and development through his work as a New Student Leader along with other involvemeeting deadlines, and then “there was taking an entire summer to write constitution for the ment such as with the Fairfield University Student Association. Black Student Union to be recognized as a club here at Fairfield University.” “He truly wants everyone around him to be their best selves and live their best lives,” “Looking back, little things like walking around campus in your BSU hoodie and said Kaler, “and he’s not afraid to put in the hard work to make the world around him a better acknowledge the next person with their BSU shirt was a basic privilege that we did not have place.” when I was a first-year student,” continued Williams. Daley kept his acceptance speech short, thanking his family, friends, faculty and staff “Having your own exhibit in the library, and working with the school archivist to dig including the Office of Student Engagement. up the lost histories of black students at Fairfield U was once something that we could only Next, Pejay Lucky, associate director of residence life and advisor to the Black Student dream of. Raising the money to be able to attend a conference and be in spaces where we Union presented the final student achievement award to Sydney Williams ‘19, the founder were the majority for the weekend was something that we had to work extremely hard to of the Black Student accomplish. Starting a scholarship to award a hard-working member seemed impossible, but Union on campus. we did it nonetheless.” “Sydney has amazed Anita Deeg-Carlin, Ph.D., associate director of the international relations program at me with how she truly Fairfield then presented the William J. Kramer ‘60 Humanitarian Award to Eunsun “Sunny” represents the Jesuit Hong ‘19. In a heartfelt and even emotional description of Hong’s accomplishments, Deegvalue, men and womCarlin recounted Hong’s designing of her own major, Global Public Health Sciences, and en for others. I have work with Starfish International, an organization that aims to advance girls’ education around seen her meet with the world, in Gambia. Hong thanked her family and friends, many of whom were in attenevery member of the dance. Black Student Union Finally, member of the board of directors for Fairfield’s Alumni Association Hugh to ensure that they felt Morgan ‘69 presented the highest honor of the night, the St. Ignatius Loyola Medal, to Elisa welcomed and supCastelli ‘19. “Elisa’s commitment to the Ignatian Leadership Residential College program’s ported, and to receive guiding questions—Who am I? Whose am I? Who am I Called to Be?—shines through everyall the resources they thing that she does,” written in the program for the ceremony. “She is reflective, compassionneeded to succeed in ate, and extremely hardworking, and always trying to better the experience of those around the Fairfield Universi- her.” ty community.” Castelli thanked her family and especially her friends, who she said took charge when Williams fought getting her nominated for the award, spreading the word and asking “everyone they knew” to Julia Crews/The Mirror to maintain her comnominate her. Sunny Hong accepts award for her humanitarian efforts.
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Sri Lankan Government Ignored Bombing Warnings and Failed Their Citizens By Christopher Orefice Contributing Writer
On this past Easter Sunday, April 21, the world had to sit and watch as yet another despicable terrorist attack devastated a community. This time, the community was the citizens of Colombo, Sri Lanka and the attack was a barrage of suicide bombings that tore apart churches and hotels citywide. On Sunday, many people woke up ready to celebrate Easter and spend valuable time with their families and friends on what should’ve been an otherwise peaceful and happy holiday. Instead, they were met with horrifying explosions and bloodshed that has totaled to 253 deaths and 500 people injured. This is yet another horrifying event to mark what people are capable of doing to each other when they can’t get along. As the days pass and we enter the aftermath of the attack while the rebuilding continues, I’m sure many people across the globe have thought, “How did nobody see this coming?’’ Unfortunately, for those who lost their lives or were injured that Sunday, as from CNN reports, the Sri Lankan government had received repeated warnings from both U.S and Indian intelligence agencies. Intelligence agencies first told the Sri Lankan government in early April that the ISIS linked group Nations Thawahid Jaman was plotting to launch multiple suicide attacks directed at Christian churches and tourist spots across Colombo. Five days later on April 9 another warning was given to the Sri Lankan government and then again on April 11. These warnings were repeated in high frequency in the days and even hours leading up to the time the first bomb detonated. Many warnings were given, yet no action was taken. Can you imagine that? Your life or the lives of those closest to you could have been saved, but due to the negligence of your government to heed warnings, devastation ensued. Why was the government so inept at
preventing this situation in the first place? The answer is government infighting. Since the 2018 Sri Lankan Constitutional Crisis, the federal government has continued to divide itself into isolated and deceitful groups. In December the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Ranil Wickremesinghe, was removed from the National Security Council. This left the leader of the country totally in the dark about the frantic warnings signaling that a terrorist attack was about to happen. CNN has quoted Sri Lankan government spokesperson Rajitha Senaratne who stated, "I think this is the only country in the world where the security council does not like to come when summoned by the Prime Minister of the country.” This entire situation was preventable and should’ve never have happened in the first place. The government had every opportunity to stop the perpetrators before their plans could be carried through. When two very skilled intelligence agencies coming from the U.S and India are frequently telling you that a large scale terrorist attack is going to happen in your country, the only things the government should be doing is figuring out how to stop those attacks from happening. The government didn’t of course, and now hundreds are dead or injured. The government that the Sri Lankan people elected to operate properly with both competence and servitude has failed them. If government officials are inept enough to the point that they can’t properly heed warnings and protect its people then, by default, they should have no
right to sit at their current posts. In the future, a systematic failure like this should be a case study for other governments on how not to handle intelligence briefings. Now that the tragedy has already occured, it is time for the government to pull itself together, put their quarrels aside and find the members of the NTJ that are responsible for this mass murder. In the meantime, the rest of us can only pray for the lives lost and those that the victims have left behind.
Photo taken from nytimes.com
One of the Sri Lankan churches after a bombing
Library Stag Card Requirement is not a Nuisance, it's for Safety By Kaitlyn Strada Contributing Writer A new policy was put in place on April 16 requiring students to present their StagCard when entering the DiMenna Nyselius Library. In the past, students were freely able to enter the library without their StagCard to grant them admission. On Fairfield University’s campus, most places require students to present proof of identification prior to entering or using the facility. These places include the Leslie C. Quick Jr. Recreation Complex, the Daniel and Grace Tully Dining Commons, the mailroom, all dorm buildings, the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts and the computer lab inside the library. I believe that students who find this simple new policy a nuisance should consider the safety reasons of the policy before being annoyed that they left their identification at home. Students might be used to the luxury of not having to present their StagCard at the library, so it may be found as an annoyance to them. Because so many popular spots require identification, the new policy for the library should not come to a surprise to students. With this said, many students should typically already have their StagCard on them at all times due to the high number of facilities on campus that require it to be presented. Although the rule came into effect rather suddenly to some students, the policy had been in the works for some time. The approval of the policy came just two months after an uncomfortable incident occurred at the library for three firstyear female students. In February, there was a suspicious unidentified man who seemed to be taking photos and/ or recording the working students. After the students reported the incident, the new initiative for requiring identification in the library became of utmost importance. The library is open to the general public, which could explain why presenting a StagCard wasn’t always required.
The new routine policy requires students to scan their StagCard at the welcome desk to the left of the library prior to entering. It may take all of one minute or less to stop by and scan your StagCard. Since the swipe-in area is past the lobby and in the entry of the library, students must re-swipe their StagCard each time they exit to use the lobby or the Starbucks. With this in mind, students should carry their StagCards with them to the Starbucks and library lobby for re-entrance. While this new routine may take some getting used to, the supervision of each individual that enters the library is at top priority. The safety concerns simply outweigh the nuisance of being required to present your StagCard. It allows the library to keep track of who exactly is in the building, keeping it as safe as possible, while also teaching students the importance of responsibility and carrying identification with them at all times. If a student forgets their identification once, chances are they won’t forget it a second time due to the inconvenience it caused the first time around. It is important to always carry identification with you no matter where you are on campus or even in town. The library is quickly approaching one of its busiest times of the year: finals season. Finals add an extreme amount of stress and pressure on students, and many of them begin to hunker down in the library to prepare. With the amount of traffic in and out of the library each day and night, requiring proof of identification secures the safety of all students, especially during this upcoming busy time of the year. It makes the most sense to require students to present their identification when entering the library. Although Fairfield University is an extremely safe and closely monitored campus, why risk students’ safety by not requiring proof of identification? In a perfect world, everyone could be trusted for having the right intentions. However, after the incident in February, the mandated check-ins in other buildings and the simplicity of the new protocol make the most sense for guaranteeing safety for all.
Pictured: Steps leading up to the Dimenna Nyselius Library Creative Commons/Wikimedia Commons
Editorial Board "I Hate Summer" Lexi Thimble Editor-in-Chief Claire Monahan Executive Editor Katherine Klima Managing Editor
I’ll sometimes be talking to people I know and casually say, “I hate summer.” They’ll laugh, but then I’ll get serious and reiterate, “No, really, I hate summer.” And I do, pretty wholeheartedly. I hate the heat; I get red-faced, out of breath and generally uncomfortable, and I’m honestly more of a fan of rain. I hate the time leading up to summer, with the crazy pressure of finding something productive to do for all those months among every other thing that needs to get done. I also hate change, which is overabundant for me whenever the summer months come around. Seniors are graduating, another school year is finishing up and I find myself in the throes of nostalgia. It’s terrible. I’ve been trying to learn, however, that the change summer brings with it doesn’t always have to be seen as a negative thing. The seniors that have become your friends, and who you’ll miss dearly, are indeed moving on and away from you, but you have
so many memories with them to hang on to. We’re criticized for it by older generations, but we as millenials and members of Gen Z document the time with our friends more than any others. We have pictures and videos and texts to remember each other by, to prove that our time together was meaningful. If you’re like me and you attach sentimentality to literally everything, then the smallest mementos will hold the fondest memories for you to look back on. These memories can be bittersweet, but also so enjoyable to reminisce about, and they can be just as fun to relive as they are to experience in the first place. The other aspect of change that I’ve been trying to unlearn is the negativity of newness. Change has always been equated to a bad thing in my mind because the result of that change, of what’s new, can’t possibly measure up to the familiarity of what I had in the past. However, what I’ve always failed
to consider is the idea that change can bring about a new reality that’s just as positive, joy-filled and meaningful as that past time that’s just been let go of. The present can mean a lot, but so can the future, even without those same familiar faces and the exact same environment. Summer can be filled with possibility; it can be changed and contain better memories than the summers that came before it. That transition period in between the years does carry sadness and the ending of an era, but a new and potentially better one can be right around the bend. I’m still not a huge summer person. I would take a thunderstorm over a heatwave any day, and the time I spend away from campus and all my friends who live states away isn’t the easiest problem to solve. But I’m willing to give this summer a chance, and even though things are coming to an end, a new beginning is awfully exciting to consider.
THE MIRROR | Week of May 1, 2019
Opinion
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Trump Must be Held Accountable for Crimes Shown in Mueller Report By Timothy Dillon Contributing Writer
After nearly two years of investigation, a redacted version of Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s report has been finally released to the public, and there’s quite a bit to talk about. The investigation, which, according to National Public Radio, began in May of 2017 in response to President Donald Trump’s firing of the director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, James Comey. It has resulted in indictments and/or guilty pleas from 34 individuals and three companies, as reported by Vox, and the final report generated by the investigation is 448 pages long. To call the investigation thorough would be a severe understatement. There are many important conclusions to be drawn from the report, but probably the most important is that, although he has not technically been charged with a crime, Trump is far from innocent. His legal innocence is dubious at best, but more important is the fact that this report contains information which ought to be extremely concerning to Americans who believe that our public officials ought to be honest, accountable and free from corruption. It is worthwhile to review the legal findings of the report, as they are hardly the exoneration that the president and his allies have claimed to the American people. The report is in two sections, the first of which focuses on Russian efforts to interfere in the 2016 election and the Trump campaign’s potential coordination with them in that effort, and the second of which focuses on potential obstruction of justice by the president. The investigation concurred with all American intelligence agencies finding that the Russian government and its intelligence agencies did indeed work to sway the election against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and in favor of Trump. Concerning the Trump campaign’s contacts with the Russian government, the investigation shows that Trump and people on his campaign were if nothing else receptive to the idea of Russian aid, as reported on by The Washington Post, and that some members of the campaign did make attempts to work with the Russians. Mueller was unable to find sufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that any of these attempts were actually successful enough to constitute the crime of conspiracy. That’s a pretty low bar to clear, and though none of the president’s actions were proven to be criminal, they are absolutely concerning. On the matter of willingness to secretly cooperate with a hostile foreign power in order to sabotage the workings of our democracy, it would be nice to think that the American people have a slightly higher standard than “not technically a crime.” Briefly putting aside the contents of the Mueller report, the American people know full well that the president Pictured: President Donald J. Trump has a disturbingly Photo taken from Twitter.com/thehill friendly and submis-
sive relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This is based on what we saw when the two of them met in Helsinki and the president of the United States told the entire world that he trusted the ex-KGB Russian dictator more than U.S. intelligence agencies, covered at the time by BBC News. The fact that his campaign did not successfully manage to conspire with the Russian government during the last presidential election should do little to assuage anyone’s concerns on this matter. More damning still is the second section of the report, in which Mueller gets as close as Department of Justice policy allows him to accusing Trump of obstruction of justice. It is the policy of the DOJ that a sitting president cannot be indicted with a crime, and it is very likely that this policy is the only reason why Mueller declined to specifically indict Trump with obstruction of justice. The report specifically does not exonerate the president of obstructing justice, instead saying, “if we had confidence after a thorough investigation of the facts that the president clearly did not commit obstruction of justice, we would so state. Based on the facts and the applicable legal standards, we are unable to reach that judgment,” as quoted in The Washington Post. That’s a pretty big deal; after a two year investigation, one of the most competent investigators in the country, an ex-FBI director who has commanded bipartisan respect for his ability to get to the truth, is unable to definitively state that the President of the United States is not a criminal. It’s also worth pointing out that obstruction of justice, by its nature, involves attempting to thwart the legal process, and that obstruction on the part of Trump and his associates may well have hidden information that bears relevance to the question of conspiracy. Taken as a whole, Mueller’s report paints a picture of a president and an administration with no respect for democracy, the rule of law or the American people. Mueller’s investigation has lead to 14 other investigations which are still ongoing, one of which has named Trump as an unindicted co-conspirator in a campaign finance violation related to hush money payments, as reported by The New York Times. Whether or not Trump will face legal consequences for his actions is an important question, and it is imperative that those capable work to make sure he is held accountable; regardless, all the American people will have a chance to make sure he faces electoral consequences come 2020. He has made it abundantly clear that he cares for no one but himself, and that the good of the people, the nat i o n and the world m e a n not h i ng Pictured: Special Counsel Robert Mueller to him. Photo take from Twitter.com/thehill
We Must Value People's Lives Over Gun Laws By Kallan Hook Contributing Writer
New Jersey Governor Philip D. Murphy has proposed new legislation to increase the price for gun permits throughout the state, as reported by The New York Times.. While New Jersey has previously taken initiatives to increase firearm regulation, the firearm fees have remained the same since the mid-1960s. Currently a firearm identification card costs only $5, a permit to own the firearm costs $2 and a carry permit is $20. In New Jersey it costs more to purchase a permit for your dog than it does for a gun. Murphy proposed new legislation that would increase permit prices as a tactic to reduce incentive to purchase firearms, while also directing the new revenue towards anti-violence initiatives. The new prices will rise to $100 for a firearm identification card, $50 for an owner’s permit and $400 for a carry permit. While Murphy hopes to decrease the amount of firearm purchases through the increase in permit price, this is not a complete solution to ending firearm violence. This proposed legislation only limits individual’s ability to obtain firearms from designated stores. The greatest problem driving gun violence is how individuals are able to illegally buy firearms through street pur-
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chases and taking them from family members. The motive behind this legislation is progressive, but not effective. We need to find greater ways to decrease the amount of firearms being sold to civilians. Murphy’s progressive legislation has been met with heavy criticism. Many opponents of such legislation suggest that they have a constitutional right to bear arms, so therefore creating regulations against firearms is simply implausible. Some rivals of such legislation have gone to such extremes as calling this regulation “bullying” of the law-abiding gun owners. These individuals are against the possibility of all gun-owners being “punished” due to the actions of the minority who use their firearms irresponsibility and for violent purposes. They believe that not all individuals who own guns are as irresponsible and mentally insane as the individuals who are responsible for school shootings. I can only hope that these people had the same mindset after 9/11 instead of claiming that all Muslims are terrorists because a minority committed a devastating attack. However, it only appears beneficial to act in this manner when their own “American rights” are being examined. There is a constitutional right to bear arms, yet there is also an irrefutable right to life that is being taken away from innocent students and civilians due to the ease with which Americans can receive military-grade firearms. This is not about punishment for the law-abiding citizens, this is about saving lives. A firearm’s permit price should not be valued
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over lives. The constitutional rights that are so sacred to carrying citizens are the rights that were written in the 18th century. The Second Amendment was not written with Columbine, Sandy Hook, Parkland, Thousand Oaks or Charleston Church in mind. This right was created for 18th century Americans seeking independence. We are not the same country and we do not have the same weapons, so it is imperative that we have different legislation. In 2019 we need to value innocent lives over 18th century legislation.
The Vine
arts, entertainment, features
Editor Gracianne Eldrenkamp gracianne.eldrenkamp@student.fairfield.edu
Students Celebrate Their Cinematic Masterpieces in Cinefest
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THE MIRROR | Week of May 1, 2019
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15th Annual Cinefest Stuns Audiences
Photo taken from Cinefest Trailer made by Thomas Cron
By Emma Unterkoefler Contributing Writer On April 27 at 7 p.m. the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts hosted the 15th annual Cinefest-- Fairfield University Film Department’s marquee event. Cinefest is a student film festival that showcases films that the students have been designing, producing, editing and filming all year. This year, 14 of such short films were shown. The films ranged in content and the audience was moved through numerous emotions: laughter, tears, thrills and heartbreak. On the humor front, Thomas Cron ‘19 directed “Happy Birthday” which featured a young man throwing himself a birthday party in which no one attends. This film kicked the evening off and had the audience erupting in laughter. In the film, the young man arranges everything one would need for the best birthday ever: party hats, noisemakers, music and cake. Despite his efforts, the only attendee was the pizza delivery man. As he went to cut the pizza delivery man a slice of cake, the pizza delivery man escaped through the bathroom window. Once again, he was left alone to enjoy his one person party. Cron blended humor and self-pity to suggest a deeper meaning of being content with yourself and making the most of it. In the end, the young man wrapped and opened his own presents instead of wallowing in self-pity on the couch.
“Happy Birthday” took home the award for Best Production Design. This year’s event featured a thriller, “Crawlspace,” which took home the Audience Award. Senior Steve Collins directed this short film, and before it played, he explained that he was inspired to make this film because when he was young he asked his dad to put a lock on a crawlspace in his bedroom. Who knew that this small request would one day turn into a thriller? This film had the audience on the edge of their seats as a college-aged girl returns home to a troubled mother and no father. The mystery looms large as it is unclear as to what happened to her father. The editing was superb to the extent that it fully captured the horror of what went down in the crawlspace. The biggest winner of the night was “The Quiet Pain” directed by Timothy Amatulli ‘19. Amatulli took home the top prize, Best Film, as well as Best Director. “The Quiet Pain” was entirely in Japanese with English and Japanese subtitles. This film portrayed the drama and trauma of a wife discovering her husband had been cheating on her and how this disrupts the family in subtle ways. It pained the audience to see the pain the wife endured. The tension was palpable as the family came together to share a meal. It was also intriguing for the audience to see that familial and marriage problems are universal. Even if there were no English subtitles, the audience still would have known exactly what happened, which really showcased the brilliance of this short film. The panel of industry experts agreed, and awarded this most deserving film Best Film. The remaining awards went to: “Il Suono Della Citta,” directed by Ella Danna ‘19 for Best Sound Design, “Munch,” directed by Gianna Llewellyn ‘18 for Best Editing and “The Cross He Bears,” directed by Lisa Angell ‘19 for Best Screenplay. It was an enjoyable night for all attendees. While the audience was treated to the final product, it was clear that a lot of collaboration, long days on set, and editing took place to create such amazing films. Each film had its own brilliance and at times, I forgot that this was students’ work instead of industry professionals. Bravo! “Happy Birthday,” directed by Thomas Cron ‘19 “Landline,” directed by Colleen McElaney ‘19 “The Cross He Bears,” directed by Lisa Angell ‘19 “The Quiet Pain,” directed by Timothy Amatulli ‘19 “Munch,” directed by Gianna Llewellyn ‘18 “Navy Brat,” directed by Brendan Smith ‘21 “Il Suono Della Citta,” directed by Ella Danna ‘19 “Washing Machine,” directed by Max Pribnow '27 “Curtain Call,” directed by Justin Demas ‘21 “Crawlspace,” directed by Steve Collins ‘19 “Bella Ciao,” directed by John Laske ‘19 “Smell the Roses,” directed by Lisa Angell ‘19 “Outsider,” directed by Caitlin Brunnock ‘19 “U Up?,” directed by Phoebe Herbert ‘19 CreativeCommons/Pixabay
Tribeca Film Festival Premieres Fantastic Films
acting (just the father, by the way, everyone else was mediocre) and the visual effects. However, if the film was a feature length, like it probably should’ve been The Tribeca Film Festival is currently taking place all to flesh out the characters better, those effects would over Manhattan. It started on Wednesday, April 24 and will conbe laughable. tinue until Sunday, May 5. The event hosts screenings for brand As I mentioned, they weren’t all bad. A parnew movies the public has never seen before. There are tons of ticularly amazing short from the bunch was “Flyby,” different genres, and, recently Tribeca even started including directed by Jesse Mittelstadt. This film follows a more immersive virtual reality cinema as well to accomodate for man in a world that is changed by an asteroid. For new technology. many people on the planet, time goes unbelievI ended up going to three different events in Tribeca. I ably fast for them, to the point where they experisaw a narrative, a collection of shorts and a documentary. Alence blackouts of their life. The main character has though all three were in the same theater, Village East Cinema in it particularly bad. He goes through his whole life the East Village, I really got a sense of the variety of genre, style absolutely baffled and shocked by every new moand quality Tribeca has to offer. ment, and the ways the filmmakers see this progresThe narrative film I watched wasn’t actually my first sion is amazing. You see a man grow a family that choice. I planned on making it to the venue earlier to catch he never really got to know because you experience “No Place of No Words” which peaked my interest just from the blackouts in the same way he does, as if his the description and promotional images. However, being that it whole life happened within one day, and he missed was early in the morning, I missed my subway stop, and ended all the important moments. It’s heartbreaking and up going to my second choice, “The Short History of the Long thought-provoking and genuinely well crafted. Road.” Now, I was initially really disappointed, as one would be. The last film I saw was by far my favorite. It I didn’t particularly want to see the second film after I hyped wasn’t a press screening like the others, but a world myself up for the first. Boy, I really should stop being so judgepremiere of the documentary “Our Time Machine,” mental. directed by Yang Sun and S. Leo Chiang. After suf“The Short History of the Long Road,” directed by Ani fering through quite a bit of bad science fiction Simon-Kennedy, is a wonderful film, but I will warn you: you films, I was a bit skeptical to jump into something have to stay until the credits roll. During the last third of the with such a sci-fi name, but I pursued nonethefilm, I was genuinely mad at what I was seeing on screen, and I less. If I’ve learned anything from my experience Gracianne Eldrenkamp/The Mirror was tempted to walk out. Keep in mind, that I’ve never walked at Tribeca, it is to stop being so damn judgmental People gather in front of Village East Cinema for the festival. out of a movie in my life. But I will say if you stick it out to the about films before you watch them. “Our Time Maend, you’ll be thoroughly satisfied. Sabrina Carpenter’s perforchine” is a cinematic masterpiece. The raw emotion, mance is mesmerizing and complex, and I genuinely enjoyed the simplicity and relatability of the documentary make it progression of her character. so accessible to any audience, even though the film is in Chinese. It’s about how a son copes with his father’s I saw a collection of science fiction short films, dubbed “Shorts: Down to Earth” next. I think choosing gradual memory loss through the art of puppeteering, and, even though that sounds strange, it works. The this collection over a different one might’ve been a poor choice because of my disinterest in science fiction, but audience becomes a part of the theatre troupe as they struggle to get a platform, and they become a part of the I gave them a chance. Out of six very different films, I genuinely enjoyed two of them. Most of the others were family as Ma Ke, the father, fights to remember his past. I will warn you ahead of time: it’s a tearjerker, but it average–nothing fantastic or awful, but there was one film that I firmly believed shouldn’t have made the cut. also has a good amount of comedy and even some interesting historical information. At the end of the show“The Shipment,” directed by Bobby Bala, was a space adventure sort of sci-fi where a father has to make ing, there was a Q&A with the filmmakers and the subject of the film which really grounded the film. Often the difficult decision to take part in slave trade to save enough money to help support his teenage daughter. The times, people forget that the people in documentaries are real and that the actions aren’t a dramaticized version plot is ridiculously predictable. Everything I thought was going to happen did happen, and anything surpris- of theirs. Seeing the people behind it, and the subject himself in front of my eyes, made the whole experience ing only occurred because I expected the plot to be a little more exciting and original than it was. For such a so much more amazing. bland plot, there was no reason for the whole film to be a whopping 27 minutes. Not to mention the ending Overall, my experience at Tribeca Film Festival was one for the books. I definitely plan on going to it was atrocious. Even though I didn’t enjoy the length, I almost wanted it to be longer so I didn’t leave the theater again, and I’m even looking into other film festivals now. Going to Tribeca rekindled my love for film watching, with such an unsatisfactory ending. The only parts of the film that are redeemable are the main character’s and I’m excited to see the other films it puts out.
By Gracianne Eldrenkamp Vine Editor
The Vine
THE MIRROR | Week of May 1, 2019
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Art Exhibit Shows off Student Talent By Molly Lamendola Assistant Vine Editor
and the Beast” that though focus on female protagonists, remain far away from our modern perspective of a woman. Junior Nicole Chrysler creates a giant web of her own story. Separate memories shared with those she cares most about connected with strings and stories and words. The maps and photos and magazine clippings overwhelm an entire wall of the gallery space, yet focuses us on the idea of truly knowing someone is, how long it would really take to hear someone’s entire life story. Even looking at Mariana Brandao’s ‘20 work, which depicts important objects to her through a digital media, we feel even closer to the artist. A print of her dog’s face acts as the border, printed again and again in a circular pattern, surrounding other important object to her. Regular objects to you and I, but this repetition points out the importance of these items to her, and tells us that it our relationship with the objects doesn’t matter. While leaving Loyola, the last collection you’re met with is that of Cierra Miller ‘19, who simply wished to share her relationship with color. It’s a very immersive digital piece that shows splashes and clashes of color through digital projectors. You enter the room and are completely absorbed into her piece, as the colors flash through your eyes at a rapid pace and you seem to become one with the piece. You become a part of something.
The end of an event often calls for retrospection. An artist spends hours and hours creating a piece, pouring themselves into a tangible object and then displays it for the public. Or, a student at the very end of a semester, sits back and reflects on the highs and lows of fourteen weeks. The students in Studio Arts classes 299 and 301, are lucky enough to reflect on both, as they display their artwork from the Semester in the Lukacs Exhibition Gallery in the lower level of Loyola Hall from now until May 9. You enter the gallery and are immediately met with Lauren ten Hoopen’s ‘19 mixed media pieces that feels deeply connected to nature. As I stand in front shattered glass across wood, or high quality, sharp, beautifully colored photos placed just above paintings depicting a swirling mess of replicated colors, we can’t help but feel one with the world around us. Senior Kevin Fiallos continues this connection to nature, though focuses more on our slow destruction of it. His large scale abstract photographs that shine and shimmer like sheets of metal are created using trash Fiallos has collected from the environment. The viewers are completely submerged into the work; emphasizing the scale of this problem, and how easy it is to forget, and be tempted by the ease and almost beauty of these plastics. Senior Christopher Murphy’s work feels unbelievably modern and current. A series of fourteen large prints depicting screenshots or other photos covered in inky swirling colors. The screenshots are funny, and again current. They’re photos many of us could find with a simple scroll through our camera roll. But, with the addition of the color splattering of blacks or scratching into the prints, the photos seem re-electrified. Far away from the photos we usually take with smartphones, Murphy is able to breath life back into an activity that has become mechanical. That electricity continues on with Eleanor Sgaramella ‘20. The pure inky blacks against the snow white paper Sgaramella uses immediately draws the viewer in. As female characters stand with strong short phrases that connect with long passages just to the left. The viewer’s eyes meet a piece that says, “I’M NOT ASKING FOR IT,” and the paragraph to the right bleeds the words of clothes, bodies and faces not being invitations for the opportunity to break a human being. Sophomore Emily Pappas’ work stands out among these as a seemingly more whimsical view of characters. Depicted are the heads of fun, brightly-colored characters with large ears and eyes, or a curled snake-like tongue or even the head of a beast. A play on the concept that all of us are indeed very different, but it’s up to us to look our fellow people right in the eyes and find similarities between us. Junior Danielle Fierro continues this more whimsical look, as she, “reinterprets classical fairy tales through a feminist lens,” seen in the didactic placed next to her piece. Through full color sketches and black and white comic book-like scenes, Fierro re-draws our attention to stories from our youth. The stories we’re familiar with, “The Little Mermaid,” ”Peter Pan,” “Sleeping Beauty” and “Beauty Artwork from students is displayed in the Lukacs Exhibition Gallery.
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A Spoiler-Free Review of "Endgame"
task. There was no way they could cap off 11 years of films with a bang that was grand in spectacle, emotionally resonant and overall, satisfying. There is no way that 11 years ago, anyone could have imagined that something like this would be possible. By some miracle, they 100% “Avengers: Endgame” is directed by Anthony and Joe Russo and serves as the direct sequel pulled it off. to 2018’s “Avengers: Infinity War” and the final installment in the current arch of the Marvel I’m going to keep this critique as vague as I possibly can because I went into “Endgame” Cinematic Universe. Marvel Studios has accomplished what no other studio has managed: knowing nothing about the actual story they were telling and it was one of the best cinematic reaching a final chapter in their cinematic universe that has lasted 11 years and 22 movies. experiences of my life. It’s also really hard to take a step back from my viewing experience to With Warner Brothers’ DC Comics Universe considered a failure after a string of poorly re- critique it as a film and not a Marvel movie. I had the same issue with last year’s “Infinity War” ceived films and Universal’s “Dark Universe,” which focuses on classic monsters, dying on ar- because these entries are so huge in scale that it doesn’t follow a traditional cinematic structure. rival, the MCU remains the gold standard for what large scale, serialized storytelling can be I liken it to a TV show that has been going on for several years. The episodes eventually will on the big screen. fall into a formula that the show will generally follow because it satisfies and is familiar to fans. I have been a huge fan of the MCU since its first entry with “Iron Man” in 2008. I was “Avengers: Endgame” is the finale of this saga, so structure, pacing and other issues that could instantly hooked into the world not only because of its grand size and fun action, but be- affect a film are out the window because the fans know what they are here for. cause how real and fleshed out every character was. Robert Downey Jr. (Iron Man), Chris What “Endgame” excels in beyond anything else is its characters. I would love to comEvans (Captain America) and Chris Hemsworth (Thor) have brought to life their costumed ment on each actor and commend them for how great they are in “Endgame,” but I would quite counterparts in ways that no one could have possibly literally be mentioning every member of the cast. All of the actors deliver all-time high perforimagined. mances for each of their respective characters and it’s remarkable how much these characters That being said, going into “Endgame,” have grown over the course of 11 years. It adds more weight to the viewing experience and is I was largely skeptical of where they could extremely satisfying for fans of this series. possibly go after the ending of the previous The story itself (still no spoilers) is broken into hour segments. With a three hour runtime, film, “Infinity War.” I had some idea of what it the film is packaged in a way that delivers a fresh new feel every hour through viewing. It is Ph could be, but the trailers and marketing gave hard to explain without spoilers, but it flows together cohesively and oto Ta no further hints to the secrets the never feels like the story is moving too fast or too slow. The film is ke nf ro film held. “Endgame” tremendously edited. Moments that are so grand in size that are m @ av had an impossible meant to fire up the audience seamlessly become smaller charen ge acter moments that further develop relationships that we have rs Ins seen flourish for 11 years. It’s remarkable how they pulled this tag ram movie off. If you are a fan of these movies and are up to date in your MCU lore, “Avengers: Endgame” is everything you could ever want from a conclusion for these characters. It is an absolute must see. If you haven’t seen a Marvel movie before, don’t see this movie. You won’t understand a thing that is going on and will absolutely hate it. Being a series finale for this saga, it acts that you have prior knowledge of the events that have come before. The film doesn’t cater to people who haven’t kept up to date and it pulls the smallest moments from the other films to payoff. For some, this would be a turn off, but for me, it moved me to tears at moments. The smaller moments are why I watched these movies and to see them payoff in such a big, emotional way was extremely satisfying to watch. The last hour of “Endgame” is the best superhero cinema put to screen ever. The film itself (early hot take) is the best superhero movie and one of the greatest accomplishments in cinematic history. So, even if you haven’t seen any of the Marvel movies, start now, because “Avengers: Endgame” is something you need to see at least once in your life. Thanos is the main villian of the movie. Grade From An MCU Fan: A++
By Tyler Zikias Contributing Writer
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Ciao Bella Has Beautiful Clothing for the Summer By Eleanor Davis Fashion Columnist
During the past month, The Point Magazine has partnered with the cutest boutique located in downtown Fairfield! Ciao Bella is located right next door to Wild Rice and opened this past year. Not only is the clothing affordable, but they have the cutest jewelry and trinkets too. For Clam Jam we created a lookbook with them to help inspire everyone to look their best.
3. This look is perfect for The Point, or throw on a jean jacket and head to class or chill in the quad on a warm day. I love nude and white right now and this two piece set is flirty and fun.
1. I love this jumpsuit because it’s cropped. It ties in the front which creates a flattering silhouette. The print is a fun twist on horizontal stripes and paired with a jean jacket is an adorable outfit! This jumpsuit can be dressed up with espadrilles or heals.
2 Pirate-like tops are very in this spring and I have a feeling they aren’t going anywhere. The buttons down the front and the fit of the shirt are super flattering on every body type because the natural angularity of the top draws the attention in.
4. We love a light blue moment. On the left Krystal wears a baby blue romper. It’s fitted at the top and loose at the bottom and she could definitely dress it up, or wear it to The Point. Casey is wearing a tie dye romper. Tie dye is really in right now and makes me want to throw up a peace sign and a picket sign. To see more looks that we put together with Ciao Bella check out our Instagram. If you’re looking to update your wardrobe for summer head downtown and visit CB. All my love, Eleanor Davis Photos taken by Kevin Kryzwick Contributed by Eleanor Davis
The Mirror Abroad: Kickin' It with Kat By Katherine Klima Abroad Columnist This is it boys. My final abroad column and also my final last two weeks in Galway, Ireland. With my finals over and my official summer break here, I was able to plan two final trips. The first trip, that started the day after I turned my last final in, was to Edinburgh, Scotland. Edinburgh is a city I’ve been dying to come to since I was seventeen years old. It’s home to a lot of my favorite television shows and movies such as the Starz hit “Outlander,” and it’s also the birthplace of the Harry Potter series. It’s also a city rich with history and specifically, literature history. Besides J.K. Rowling, the city was home to J.M. Barrie and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Finally, Scotland is also home to the Loch Ness monster– a classic. So, I wanted to go. Really badly. On the night of April 27, I stepped foot on Scottish soil. Our landing had been an eerie way to be brought into Scotland. It was raining and there was a lot of ominous clouds surrounding the city of Edinburgh, but to be honest, it was nothing out of Edinburgh's character for the atmosphere to be spooky. The city of Edinburgh is exactly what you’d think of an olden city. In the old town, where we predominantly explored, the streets are lined with cobblestone and buildings date back to as earlier as the 16th and 17th centuries. It’s charming, but also absolutely beautiful from its architecture to the landscapes surrounding it. One of the first things we did in Edinburgh was visit Edinburgh Castle. Talk about the coolest castle I’ve seen. It’s right up there next to my trip to Blarney. Edinburgh Castle is this medieval castle right smack dab in the middle of Edinburgh's old town. Built on an extinct volcano, the castle has been home to monarchs such as Mary Queen of Scots and her sons, James VI and I. The castle was massive. Plus, being so high up, you got spectacular views of the city. It’s also got cool historical exhibits like St. Margaret’s Chapel and the Scottish crown jewels. When we went to see the Scottish crown jewels, they also advertised “the Stone of Destiny.” I had no clue what it was and I was only drawn to it because it’s called “the Stone of Destiny.” How could you not want to see something called that? It’s just a big old block of sandstone, which I later learned has been used for the coronation of Scottish and English monarchs. After the castle, our next adventure was Arthur’s Seat. Arthur’s Seat is a massive extinct volcano right across the city from the castle. It’s one of the main peaks of a group of hills in Holyrood Park. Anyway, it’s huge. Like talk about a climb. The terrain is super rocky and slip-
pery and talk about a time to get up. There were a few times I almost fell off and there were also a few times I found myself crawling. However, it was so worth almost breaking my neck. Once you reach the top of Arthur’s Seat, the views are phenomenal. In my time abroad, there are three times I’ve been absolutely been absolutely blown away by the landscape’s pure beauty. The first being the Cliffs of Moher, the second being right smack in the middle of the Swiss Alps and finally, the view from the top of Arthur’s Seat. You can see all of the city and even past that to the views of the North Sea. Arthur’s Seat is also extremely beautiful in the spring being that all the flowers are in bloom and even Scotland’s cherry blossoms made an early appearance, causing it to truly be a breathtaking view. After enjoying all that is Arthur’s Seat, we headed back down to the city for our ghost tours. If you ever find yourself in Edinburgh, a ghost tour is a must. The city is so old and filled with so much dark history such as gruesome murders, hauntings and witches– you just gotta do it. Even if you get easily creeped out by that stuff, still do it because you learn so much about this city’s terrifying history. The next day we would do some light exploring due to having to catch our plane home that night. We’d start off with a free walking tour of the city– something I also highly suggest be- cause you learn so much about the city in general, but also you give it your o w n price. We learned so much. For example, one place we were taken to on the tour was Greyfriars Kirkyard– a graveyard connected
to a lot of history. A lot of the names in that graveyard are names J.K. Rowling took and used within the Harry Potter series such as McGonagall and Riddle– being that her daughter’s school was just on the other side, which is also the inspiration for Hogwarts. The graveyard is also home to Bobby, a famous dog that guarded his owner’s grave from grave robbers for his entire life. Bobby is so famous that he has a few taverns and shops named after him. We also checked out Victoria Street, which is the street that inspired Diagon Alley in Harry Potter due to it’s colorful shops and winding road. If you’re a big Harry Potter fan, just up the street from Victoria is The Elephant House– the cafe that’s taken credit for being the “birthplace” of Harry Potter. Overall, Edinburgh was amazing. It’s easily one of my favorite cities because of its charming nature and wild history. I loved every second of it and know I’ll definitely come back. Maybe this time I’ll get the chance to find the Loch Ness monster or run around the highlands. Who knows. In the meantime, as my days abroad reach their end I have one more trip to Greece to live out my Mamma Mia dream, and then finish it up with three days here in Galway. All I can say is that these past four and a half months have been some of the best in my life and I will forever be grateful for this city. As excited as I am to come home to see all the people and places I missed, I’ll tremendously miss Galway– my home away from home.
KatherineKlima/TheMirror
People crowded around Edinburgh Castle.
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THE MIRROR | Week of May 1, 2019
Inkwell Spotlight lone star falling By Brandon Robles Contributing Writer from The Inkwell
Never saw a real zebra Or at least I’ve forgotten about it It’s been a long time And I’m a lone star falling I think my first friend’s name was Luis Or was it Brandon? Could have been Lashawn But I’m a lone star falling I think I dreamt of school Or was it the empty void? Might’ve been a glimpse into the future Though I’m a lone star falling I did my history essay But it might’ve been my philosophy homework Why can’t I remember? I’m just a lone star falling I remember riding a donkey Sometime when I was five I know that’s real Because I’m a lone star falling And the lone star is falling somewhere CreativeCommons/Pixabay
The Cranberries' Final Album is Their Best By Gracianne Eldrenkamp Vine Editor Irish grunge band, The Cranberries, has provided the world with incredibly impactful and beautiful music since 1989. In their final album, rightfully named “In the End,” the band provides final goodbye to their legacy, and to Dolores O’Riordan, their lead singer, who passed away in January 2018. The singer drowned in her bathtub after passing out from alcoholic intoxication nine years after the band’s reunion. The album was released on April 26, and it is a compilation of eleven songs that, although O’Riordan’s death was sudden, tell a deep and meaningful farewell to the well-loved band. For long time fans of The Cranberries, “In the End” provides no disappointments. The instrumentals stand out in the song, but complement O’Riordan’s vocal impeccably. O’Riordan’s vocals, as they are for all of The Cranberries’ albums, is the glue holding each song together. Her lilting voice fills each song with such raw emotion; it is incomparable. Her iconic voice dances the line between melancholy and elation and no matter which emotion O’Riordan is portraying, it is honest and graceful. Every song on the album will make you feel something, whether or not you are an avid listener or not. The song, “Lost,” is a hauntingly elegant song that highlights O’Riordan’s lyrical and vocal prowess. As she belts about being “lost with you” and “lost without you,” you feel shivers down your spine. Her emotion is translated so well through song that it’s tangible.
Most of the songs are a bit darker in theme, but the three that make that exception are “Summer Song,” “The Pressure” and “Crazy Heart.” Both songs take on the major key which, in the band’s style, is both tragic and uplifting. “Summer Song” is the perfect song for road trips in the summer. It’s a love song with beautiful harmonies and an intoxicating rhythm. “In the End” is the final song on the album, and it’s particularly heart-wrenching. It’s slow and moving. The acoustic guitar keeps the song grounded as O’Riordan’s voice drifts further and further into space. She sings of finalities and changes. It listens like a lullaby, lulling the listener to the band’s close. The Cranberries’ “In the End” is a bittersweet goodbye to one of the last remaining grunge bands from the 1990s. I’s a goodbye a truly unique band, and a goodbye to an irreplaceable singer. Dolores O’Riordan will be missed, but her essence is captured in “In the End.”
HAGS: Summer Nutrition Tips to Stay Healthy and Happy By Sabrina Trueheart Nutrition Columnist
CreativeCommons/Flickr
Farm stand.
Person drinking water.
CreativeCommons/JointBaseElmendorfRichardson
For everyday people, summer starts on June 21. For us college students, summer starts moments after their last final exam. Since we are blessed with a longer-than-average summer, we will likely be spending more time out in the sun, which has its pros and cons. Here are three summer nutrition tips to stay hydrated, eat healthy and make the most out of your well-deserved summer: 1. Buy from local farm stands This is extremely important as human activity continues to have devastating effects on our environment. Since many of us buy more fruits and vegetables in the summer, please consider buying from a local farm stand. The produce will be more fresh, you’re supporting your community and buying local greatly reduces food miles. Two of my favorite picks from the farm stand are strawberries and blueberries; these two types of berries are summer staples and both have high amounts of vitamin C and potassium! 2. Stay hydrated I can’t stress this one enough. Water is not only the key to hydrated, healthy skin during the hottest time of year, it is also the key to not becoming dehydrated while you’re out and about in the sun. The recommended amount of water to drink per day is 64 oz, but remember that more is better, especially in the summertime. A good way to remember to drink water is to download an app where you can track how many glasses of water you drink. Plus, you could always eat your water! Foods such as cucumbers, cantaloupes and watermelons have a high water content. Note: don’t drink pool water. 3. Feed your skin In my beauty food article, I listed five beauty foods that you can keep right in your dorm to keep skin looking young and healthy: almonds, avocado, bananas, oats and pumpkin seeds. Smoothies are an ultimate summer drink, and nearly all of these foods can be blended into a delicious smoothie! Play around with different fruits, but try a berry smoothie with banana, oats and almond milk. BAM, you have skincare in a nutritious and filling drink. Also, feeding your skin is one thing, but make sure to protect your skin as well by using sunscreen when you’re out having fun in the sun! 4. Love and Take Care of Your Body The pressure to have a “great body” is amplified during the summertime when the sleeves get shorter and it’s near impossible to curl up in an oversized sweater. But, please don’t forget that your body needs its nutrients, especially while you’re out in the hot sum-
mer sun all day long. It is important to bring a bag full of snacks and drinks on your beach days, because running around on the beach in 90 degree weather without food or drinks can result in dehydration and even heatstroke. Remember that your health is much more important than maintaining your swimsuit body, especially in the heat!
Coffee Break
THE MIRROR |The Week of May 1, 2019
Page 12
Coffee Break Editor: Tobenna Ugwu tobenna.ugwu@student.fairfield.edu
Tips to Destress During Finals
As the finals approach, here are some tips: • • • • • • • •
Sleep at least seven hours a night. Engineering students, all-nighters are not healthy Don’t forget your number two pencil for when you want to stab yourself in the eye Take study breaks, and catch up on Game of Thrones. Keep your priorities in line Attend Glee’s Pops concert tonight, as it will provide inspiration for all your final essays Don’t half-ass two courses, whole-ass one course Try out one of playlists the library compiled for finals; they try so hard. Be like a duck-paddling and working your ass off underwater, but looking very calm above water If all else fails, there is always the option of skipping the final
A completely totally spoiler free review of Avengers: Endgame Creative Commons/Flickr
In Avengers Endgame Thanos jwfaefwgdygfwiudhsvhgfaiwdsggewyfdgsufsgdyfywtefudsguweyfdjgouyfewsdywfeysduwefusidgguy7t79Ironman and Thor sadjhbhfsdggdsfagweiudsyefdsgaydshouhfesydgyfgsduohfsdgyfsdttegfdsfuhdwuashygsdf Black Widow fjwwhwjfwwjwjjbkjqhfjqbdjnvbwehdlshgfwoejhgruhgweushewouevhdhjhejwvdhsheio and Captain America. jbefhdsufewgyfegygfeygfyegfehfegfyegfyeheffehefgygfeqefwyg Overall, the movie was excellent.
Editor Spotlight This weeks spotlight is on Assitant Vine Editor, Molly Lamendola. Her quote is, “I wear slippers in honor of Val Kilmer’s character in the 1985 classic ‘Real Genius.’” Creative Commons/Flickr
FUSA Senators Flip Over Tables, Declare Anarchy By Nathan Schmidt Stagnation Editor-In-Chief
Last week, chaos descended on Fairfield University when the last FUSA senate meeting of the semester ended in literal anarchy. The assembled senators, who had come together one more time to determine the starting conditions of the next semester, quickly realized that this was their one chance to truly cut loose. And so less than half an hour into the meeting, all order suddenly broke down. First, at the urging of the speaker, all of the senators threw the papers and nameplates off their tables, then flipped the tables upside-down in a massive group effort. They then resolved to never vote on anything ever again, measuring the movement’s approval by the loudness of the senate’s cheering rather than a count of yea/nay/abstention votes. About an hour into the meeting, Senator Kealy Lacon ‘19, who will be graduating very soon from Fairfield, addressed a crowd of ferocious rioters from atop a pile of rubble in the BCC lower level. Behind her, bonfires blazed in a scattering of metal trash cans and recycling bins. “No more rules! No more rules!” she screamed, leading the crowd in a frenzied chant of pure mayhem. With this meeting settled, the FUSA senate is gladly looking forward to the fall semester, where it will welcome the Class of 2022 senators with an enforced crash course in self-governance.
Photo contributed by the Stagnation Staff
Read More at: http://myfairfieldstagnation.wordpress.com/
Sports
SPORTS Sports Editor: Julia Lanzillotta julia.lanzillotta@student.fairďŹ eld.edu
THE MIRROR | Week of May 1, 2019
This Week in Sports:
Page 13
Weekend Update
In Case You Missed It: Wednesday, April 24th -Baseball defeated Stony Brook, 9-1 Thursday, April 25th -Softball lost to Sacred Heart, 13-3 Friday, April 26th -Men's Lacrosse lost to Hofstra, 11-9 Saturday, April 27th -Baseball vs. Canisius (DH), 9-2 (L), 3-2 (W)
Photo Contributed by Sports Information Desk
Following a 12-11 victory over Canisius College in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Regular Season Championship Game, the Fairfield University Women's lacrosse team (13-3, 8-0 MAAC) clinched the top seed in the MAAC. This was the program's 12th MAAC Regular Season Championship title and it afforded them the advantage of hosting the 2019 MAAC Championship semi-final game on Conway Field at Rafferty Stadium. The match is set to take place on Thursday, May 2 at 3 p.m. against the Marist College Red Foxes (8-9, 4-4 MAAC). The Stags are 20-11 against the Red Foxes and hope to defend their undefeated conference record as the reigning MAAC Champions. The Stags have won the MAAC Championsips in 2001, 2009, 2015 and, most recently, 2018. Fairfield's home turf last saw the conference tournament in 2005, and hasn't seen a win of that kind since 2001. The winner of Thursday's game will go on to the National Collegiate Athletic Association post season to challenge the most talented teams in the nation.
-Softball vs. Iona (DH), 6-1 (W), 6-5 (W) -Men's Tennis lost to Monmouth, 4-0
Upcoming This Week:
Photo Contributed bySports Information Desk
Wednesday, May 1st -Baseball vs. Hartford, 2:30 PM
Fairfield University's cross-town rivals hosted the Sacred Heart University Rowing Invitational on Saturday, April 13. The men's varsity 8 won the event, completing the race in 7:04:47. The A shell's success were due to the efforts of Matt Sutter '20, Charlie Riordan '21, Mike Clarkson '19, Barak Davidi '21, Lars Erickson '20, Mike Pagliaro '22, Seamus O'Brien '20, John Imor '19, and coxswain Matt Marshall '19. The women's team took two of the three top spots for the varsity 8 race, with their B entry winning the event with a time of 8:14:26. The B boat was comprised of Mariel Staffier '21, Rebecca Patti '22, Camryn Colonna '21, Michaela Bassett '20, Kelsey Carthew '19, Maggie O'Donnel '19, Eileen Keenan '19, Allison Sloan '19 and coxswain Katherine Clark '19. The two teams will travel to the Dad Vail Regatta in Philadelphia, PA on Friday, May 10 to compete for two days. Their regular season races will conclude in Pennsylvania, while the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Championships are scheduled for Sunday, May 19 in Pennsauken, NJ.
Thursday, May 2nd -Women's Lacrosse vs. Marist, 2019 MAAC Championship, 3 PM Friday, May 3rd -Women's Tennis at Pepperdine, 2019 NCAA Championship, 4 PM
In this week's issue... - FairďŹ eld Baseball Flops Against Canisius (Pg.14)
- The Pride Preys on Stags at Men's Lax Senior Night (Pg. 15) - Softball Catches Another Win at Hartford (Pg. 15) - Women's Tennis Takes MAAC Title (Pg. 16)
Sports
Page 14
THE MIRROR | Week of May 1, 2019
Fairfield Baseball Flops Against Canisius
Photo taken from Sports Information Desk Baseball fell short at home against the Canisius College Griffins, 8-3, and were just a single out away from landing in the first spot in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC).
Fairfield was powered by their starter Michael Sansone ‘22, who threw a seven-inning complete game, allowing two earned runs on six hits, while striking out five. Fairfield jumped out to a 3-0 behind Tom Ryan ‘19, who scored the first run of the game on a wild pitch in the second inning and than padded the lead even more with an RBI single in the third inning. Junior Dan Ryan also drove in a run with an RBI single of his own. In the rubber game, Fairfield blew a late lead, as Canisius rallied to take the series, winning 8-3. Fairfield got a good start from Trey McLoughlin ‘21, who threw four innings, allowing one earned and striking out five. Junior Eli Oliphant got the Stags within one out of closing out the series before an error by Griffin Watson ‘22 kept the game alive for Canisius. Canisius capitalized on the second chance, scoring six unearned runs turning the game around from a 3-2 deficit to an 8-3 lead. Fairfield’s offense was dormant all day, except for their three run sixth inning, powered by Dylan Reynolds ‘20 and Ryan, who were responsible for each of the three runs scored. Fairfield will look to get back on the right track when they take on the the New Jersey Institute of Technology Highlanders (13-21, 5-13) on Tuesday, April 30 and the Hartford University Hawks (13-26,7-8) on Wednesday, May 1. Fairfield will then close out the week by going on the road to take on the Niagara University Purple Eagles (10-27, 5-10) in their second-to-last conference series of the year on Saturday, May 4.
By Michael Hoffman Chief Financial Officer After going on the road to defeat the Sacred Heart University Pioneers (16-24, 8-7) and the Stony Brook University Seawolves (23-15, 13-5) earlier in the week, the Fairfield Stags returned home and lost their first weekend conference series against the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference leading Canisius College Griffins (21-20, 14-4). In game one, Fairfield fell behind early on and could not fight out of the early hole, as they fell to Canisius 9-2. Fairfield starter Austin Pope ‘20 had a rough start, throwing five innings, giving up eight hits, and allowed six earned runs. Pope gave up three runs in the first inning, putting the Stags offense in a 3-0 hole before they even had a chance to hit. Fairfield cut the lead to 3-2 in the third inning when Justin Guerrera ‘22 and Anthony Boselli ‘19 both doubled in runs. A two-run single by Canisius right-fielder Mark McKenna broadened the Canisius lead to 5-2, crushing Fairfield’s momentum. Canisius starter Andrew Sipowicz threw seven innings, allowing seven hits and only two earned picking up the win in game one. In game two, Fairfield evened the series, winning a close battle 3-2.
Weekly 4x5 Because we have witty things to say ... Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor
Lexi Thimble Editor-in-Chief
Favorite memory of the second semester?
Your 2019-2020 4x5 Columnists:
Julia Lanzillotta, Lexi Thimble, Claire Monahan & Alicia Phaneuf
What are you most looking forward to this summer?
Which Fairfield sporting event are you most likely to attend?
What do you predict will be the song of the summer?
Final message to The Mirror readers:
Definitely moving in with my Being a NSL with some of my very roommate, Ally! I'm going to miss best friends! her a ton next year :(
All of them! This is a formal invitation to anyone who wants to join me (and wants to be a contributing writer for sports... please)!
ME! by Taylor Swift. That woman produces bops only and I am so here for it.
THANK YOU! Most of you are my mom's Facebook friends (lol) but for real, it's so important for students to know what's going on at their own school! To be informed is to be powerful!
Gender Whatever at the Levee, it was such a blast!
I feel like the fights that break out between the turkeys should count.
Whatever songs my friends end up playing in the car when we go driving around. Probably something by Hozier.
It's been the most amazing opportunity to be The Mirror's new EIC this semester, and it's only made me more excited for the fall. Hope more of you come write for us in the new school year!
Library during finals.
Anything Jonas Brothers, they're going nowhere but up.
The Mirror has provided me with so much purpose and belonging on this campus, you should write for us.
Looking forward to working and going out with all my friends from high school that I haven't seen in literal months.
I would have to say winning FUSA All the sunshine I'll be getting working in a window-less lab. Claire Monahan President... kinda stands out.
Executive Editor
Being in the sky during ClamJam
Alicia Phaneuf (shoutout to James Dellarocca for Editor-in-Chief making all of my dreams come Emeritus true).
Finally being able to go home and spend some time with my family (while also stressing out about job searching)!!!
Do canoe races during senior picnic count???
My personal song this summer will be 'Here's to Never Growing Up' because I'm still in denial about graduating...
Thank you for providing me with a platform to pursue my goal of being a journalist for the past four years! To the staff: Thank you for seeing me at my worst, at my best and constantly supporting me. I miss you already.
Sports
THE MIRROR | Week of May 1, 2019
Page 15
The Pride Preys on Stags at Men's Lax Senior Night
Photo taken from Sports Information Desk
Four goals by Patrick Drake '22 earned him a selection as the CAA Rookie of the Week. He completed his debut season with 31 points, which is the third best among CAA first-years.
By Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor In a Colonial Athletic Association match-up, the Fairfield University men’s lacrosse team (5-9, 0-5) fell to Hofstra University (5-9, 2-3 CAA) 11-9 on Friday, April 26. The loss on Conway Field at Rafferty Stadium wrapped up the disappointing season for the Stags, and marked an end to the careers of seven graduating seniors. The tone was solemn under the lights for captains Kendall Keahy ‘19 and Samuel Murphy ‘19, as well as Jack Brennan ‘19, Liam Lynch ‘19, Adam Riestis ‘19 and Matt Sharpe ‘19 when they were recognized before the first faceoff. Nonetheless they fought hard to keep Hofstra’s lead marginal, and leave everything they had on the field. “It was a spirited game and we had the lead down the stretch but just weren’t able to hold on. I feel for our seniors, because that’s a tough pill to swallow, but those guys and others in our locker room have an awful lot to be proud of,” said head coach Andy Copelan to fairfieldstags.com. Senior Jack Brennan started out his final collegiate game strong when he scored on a helper by Dylan Beckwith ‘20 only 49 seconds into play. This would be Brennan’s last goal donning the red and white jersey, but he remained thirsty for a win for the entire match. Hofstra answered back with an unassisted goal by Ryan Tierney which got past James Corasiniti ‘22 guarding the cage. Fairfield took the extra-man opportunity when Hofstra’s lone goal-scorer
earned himself a minute in the penalty box for slashing, and Taylor Strough ‘21 buried a shot into the net. The first period concluded with Fairfield on top 2-1. In the second, the Pride scored three unanswered goals gaining their first lead of the game, 4-2. Travis Ford ‘21 scored his 22 goal of the season, assisted by Beckwith, putting Fairfield within one goal of Hofstra. Beckwith tried to get past Hofstra’s goalkeeper, Robert Casey, but failed. Hofstra cleared the ball and travelled across the field to score on Corasiniti. At half-time Fairfield was down 5-3. 31:01 into regulation time, Strough netted his second goal of the evening and Beckwith tallied a second assist. At a one-man advantage, Fairfield’s defense remained strong, and Delaware native Patrick Drake ‘22 evened the score at five while Beckwith got credit for the third point in a row. Twice more, Drake rallied past the Pride’s pushback and completed a hat trick, 7-5. Hofstra took one back and Fairfield was left to preserve their advantage in the remaining quarter. Hofstra took the reigns, winning the faceoff and shooting a rocket between the bars. A turnover by Fairfield gave Hofstra possession, and they scored again. Their valiant fight set them one ahead of the home team, 8-7. Drake continued his hot streak with his fourth goal of the game, increasing his season record to 21. First-year Brendan Dreyer claimed his second goal of the 2019 campaign, creating a one-goal differential for the tenth time of the night. Devastatingly, Hofstra picked up speed and surged
past their adversaries to complete the scoring 11-9. Following a timeout by Hofstra with 1:54 left on the clock, things got rowdy on the field when Beckwith collected two minutes worth of penalties for holding and unnecessary roughing while Cole Barnard ‘21 picked up thirty seconds for pushing. The end-of-game aggression were a reflection of Fairfield’s desire to win, but unfortunately, the efforts were too late. Although the Stags took a loss, it was the conclusion to a season which was comprised of many personal successes. Drake’s four goals matched his career high, and completed his rookie season with 21 markers and 31 total points. His performance got him selected as CAA Rookie of the week. Drake finished off his premiere collegiate campaign in having tallied 31 points which slotted him in third place among his teammates, and in third among CAA first-years Sophomore Zane Friedt’s assist to Dreyer’s goal was his first point as a Fairfield Stag. Corasiniti scooped up three ground balls and made 13 saves. Of his 12 starts this year, this was his eighth sime making double digit saves. Most notably, Beckwith continued his tremendous all-season effort, and his five assists contributed to a new Fairfield single-season record of 37 helpers. His season total of 65 points slotted him in fourth place for most in program history. Additionally, this was the most amount of points in a single season for a Stag in 20 years.
Softball Catches Another Win at Hartford By Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor
A rainy morning on Saturday, April 28 failed to phase the Fairfield University softball team (25-19), as they extended their winning streak to three games over the University of Hartford (18-26), demolishing the Hawks 4-0. The Stags were electric on Alumni Softball Field, holding off their opponents, and leaving them scoreless in seven innings. Senior Karisa Hughen started her final regular-season softball game on the mound for the Stags and put on a stellar performance, shutting out Hartford, and in the process struck out eight batters. The game was slow in action but fast in pace. Up until the top of the third, neither competitors finished an inning with a run, let alone with more than a single batter left on base. The bottom of the third is when Fairfield picked up speed. First-year Madison Robicheau and Amanda Ulzheimer ‘21 hit singles. Senior Alisha Marshall was third at bat, and although she was called out at first, the attempt sent each of the two on base to advance. Next, Mikayla Rubin ‘21 hit a rocket to right field, managing a triple. This forced Robicheau and Ulzheimer home, earning Fairfield a pair of runs. Junior Lacey Olaff ’s hit failed to land her on base, but it afforded Rubin to complete her circuit around the bases and increase Fairfield’s lead to three. Fairfield managed just one more run in the fifth inning which concluded all scoring in the game. The Stags wracked up six hits in the game, and most notably Ulzheimer took credit for three of Fairfield’s singles. Next weekend, Fairfield will finish off the regular season in New Jersey for two Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference double-headers. The first pitch is set to be at 12 p.m. at Monmouth University on Saturday, May 4. The final pair of games will be against Rider University a day later on Sunday, May 5.
Photo taken from Sports Information Desk
Senior Karisa Hughen took the mound at Fairfield's Alumni Softball Field for the final time.
@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports
Week of May 1, 2019
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SPORTS 16
Sports Editor: Julia lanzillotta » julia.lanzillotta@student.fairfield.edu
Women's Tennis Takes MAAC Title By Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor
is where Quinnipiac committed a match violation, allowing Fairfield to capitalize on their fault and The Fairfield University women’s tennis team (14-7) clinch the victory. Pil nabbed the was named the 2019 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference title of Most Outstanding Player Champions at their eleventh tournament appearance in over the weekend, when she talprogram history on Sunday, April 28. The Stags upended lied three wins and locked up the the Quinnipiac University Bobcats (11-14), 4-3, to claim MAAC Championship. their winning title which secured a berth in the National “We were having a reCollegiate Athletic Association Championship Opening ally successful season win or lose Round. The first match is slated for Friday, May 3 at 4 p.m. yesterday [April 28]. We’ve had a (EST) in Malibu, California against the #6 nationally ranked lot of young playerswe’ve got three Pepperdine University. This will be Fairfield women’s tennis’ freshmen starting, another sophofifth appearance in the NCAA postseason (2004, 2009, 2010, more. [I] Kind of expected some 2012). Photo Taken From Sports Information Desk growing pains and was pleasantly Quinnipiac started out dominant, with wins at surprised at how well everybody has Nowak named the 2019 MAAC Rookie of the Year and Player of the Year. #1 and #3 doubles, as well as a straight-set victory at #2 played all year. They’re gritty, they’re singles. Sophomore Anna Komer and Sophia Prinos ’22 there, cheering them on and getting really loud for themtough. The takeaways are: this is just hit the court and quickly caught up to the Quinnipiac’s 2-0 they were a huge help.” the start, I hope. I think they there are going to be a lot of advantage when they each registered their own straight-set Unfortunately, the men’s team was not as lucky good things to come.” victories, Komer at #4 singles and Prinos at #5 singles. as the women this campaign, finishing 6-16 overall. They Coach Bricker is tasked with the unique challenge Once more, the Bobcats surged past Fairfield in #3 concluded the spring season coming away from a 4-0 loss to singles, up one 3-2. The pressure was on 2019 MAAC Player of leading both the men’s and women’s varsity tennis teams. Monmouth University. The Hawks went on to clinch their and Rookie of the Year Amanda Nowak ‘22, as she faced the He understands the careful balance that he must find befourth straight NCAA Championship bid, and would have tween managing both teams. Bricker’s tireless efforts earned reigning recipient of both of those awards last year, Domibeen challenging competitors even had the Stags been at him prestigious recognition as the 2019 MAAC Women’s nique Vasile. Nowak’s earned her accolades, posting a 17-6 peak health. Tennis Coach of the Year. He detailed how he keeps the singles mark and a 13-6 doubles record during the regular Although the men’s outcome is not what Stags fans counterbalance. season. The freshman proved her competitive edge when anticipated, Bricker praised the men for their perseverance. “Some people like a lot of technical advice, and she swept Vasile 6-4, 7-6 and leveled the match score at Despite unforeseen obstacles like injuries which were out others just want to be reassured. Trying to remember who 3. of their control. He mentioned that the women’s team were The underclassmen Stags proved to be strong com- you’re talking to, trying to make sure everybody is on the in a similar situation last year, “Under the circumstances, I same page and relatively happy at all times is certainly a petitors, especially up against more seasoned counterparts. couldn’t be prouder of them… Last year, the women were Head coach Jeff Bricker tipped his hat to the younger group challenge but it’s enjoyable.” unbelievably injured and they didn’t make the tournament Additionally, Bricker credited a part of his success and their performance this year. He acknowledged Nowak’s because they were down two top players. Obviously, luck substantial progress throughout the year, and noted that she to his assistant coaches Matt Cook and Ed Paige for their and being healthy is certainly going to be a factor, but the tremendous help, who are understanding of his unique has always been a winner, but her mental progression was women were able to stay healthy and they were able to push position, in addition to the athletes who are so supportive of tremendous in regards to her mindset on the court. each other. That makes a difference.” each other. He characterized the team as a cohesive unit that “She is turning into a really good listener and she This offers tremendous hope for the future of the supported each other as one group. takes coaching well. She’s definitely learning. That match program, and the team’s ‘forge-on’ mentality is what will set “We do a lot of things together so if we’re going to a on Sunday is one where in the past she may have gotten too them apart from other organizations. Bricker confidently conference match, both teams go. So we’ll play one match frustrated to win a straight set, but she was able to keep it concluded that the teams’ tournament experience will be and then another. In a lot of ways, it’s one big team and they together and that’s great news.” invaluable going into next year, and their number one misreally do support each other. To be perfectly honest, the Junior Jessica Pil was left to decide her teams fate, sion remains serving the university and themselves in the women probably don’t win yesterday without the men being going into the third set at #6 singles 1-1. The final frame best way that they can.
Photo Taken From Sports Information Desk
The Fairfield University women's tennis team earned their first NCAA postseason berth since 2012. Fairfield is slated to face Pepperdine University on Friday, May 3 in Malibu, CA.