Fairfield Mirror 2/12/20

THE MIRR R Independent student newspaper

Week of February 12, 2020

Vol. 45 Iss. 15

Getting Candid with the Candiates: FUSA Presidential Election

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Groundhog Day

By Lexi Thimble Editor-in-Chief With election day two short weeks away on Feb. 25, the nominees for the next Fairfield University Student Association President and Vice President have officially been announced. The three tickets consist of: Noelle Guerrera ‘21 for President running alongside Ali Haidar ‘21 as her Vice President, Vincent Gadioma ‘22 for President with Tobenna Ugwu ‘22 as his Vice President and Sean Crosby ‘21 for President with Angelica Miceli-Kaya ‘21 as his Vice President.

They will spend the days leading up to the election party at The Levee speaking with students, participating in the Presidential Debate on Feb. 18 and articulating their campaign platforms.

Each of the candidates spoke with The Mirror about these platforms, and the issues that are important to their identity as nominees.

Sustainability was a major topic brought up by all three tickets, with the candidates aligned on their need to help Fairfield contribute positively to the environment.

“I think Fairfield does try its best currently [with sustainability], but I think they can do even better. Specifically, I want to get designated cardboard recycling areas in every trash room. In addition, I hope we can get metal straws as the gift for first-year Convocation next year,” said Gadioma.

Other sustainability ideas from Gadioma included increasing other recycling efforts and conserving electricity by relying on natural sunlight on sunny days in buildings like the Marion Peckham Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies, where many of the walls consist of glass windows.

Crosby and Miceli-Kaya stated via email that they, “want to take action in making the FUSA office paperless by the time we graduate as a first step into saving our planet. We also want to find a conclusive reason as to why both trash and recyclables are disposed of in the same truck, therefore negating the purpose of distinguishing between trash and recyclables in the first place.”

Guerrera and Haidar concurred, agreeing that they felt environmental issues were becoming an increasingly important topic of concern among students. “[Students feel a] need for our university to be sustainable and to be thinking about the future and protecting our environment,” Guerra said. “That was something this year I’ve spent a lot of time working on with administration, but it’s no easy feat. It’s hard to change a university and how it runs, there’s a lot of variables that need to be considered, and it’s a huge undertaking and that needs a lot of dedication and time to make sure Fairfield is sustainable.”

Sustainability is actually just one of Guerrera and Haidar’s five-step campaign platform, which includes student life, Tully improvements, advocacy, genuine passion and sustainability, or Photos taken from noelle.and.

STAGS for short. ali, sean_angelica2020 and vinny.

Haidar explained the idea of genuine passion further. “Given the experience we’ve had on FUSA and on non-FU- toby2020 Instagrams SA activities, we really are dedicated to the student body and to Fairfield University as a whole,” Haidar said.

“This is seen through our actions, through our words...we really want to continue the differences we’ve made over the last three years as we enter our senior year. That’s something I think separates us from a lot of tickets running, that we have the experience under our belt but also the vocation and passion for it, so there’s nothing fake about it.”

The candidates also spoke to their leadership experience on campus, both in terms of the roles they have held and the skills they took with them from those roles.

Continue Reading Candidates On Page 2

Opinion Groundhog Day is a silly but fun and carefree holiday.

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Women’s Basketball

Sports Appreciation for Fairfield Cheer shouldn’t be sidelined Page 8

92nd Oscars

Vine The 92nd Academy Awards wins and loses when showcasing diversity.

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DPS Delights in Dodgeball for a Cause Second annual tournament raises money for the Special Olympics

By Danielle Sondgeroth Contributing Writer Music blared from Alumni Hall on Saturday, Feb. 8, as members of the Fairfield community came together for the DPS Dodgeball Tournament.

This was the second annual tournament and it aimed to raise money for Special Olympics Connecticut.

Ten teams gathered on the basketball courts for a single elimination tournament following a few round robin games. The teams came from all over the Bridgeport areas, representing the Fairfield and Bridgeport police and fire departments, the correction department of the Greater Bridgeport Area, DPS and Fairfield University’s G-Force Security unit.

As more and more teams were eliminated, cheers filled the room with every win paired with a combination of handshakes, butt slaps and high fives. Players became more competitive as the tournament became more and more passionate, with some people throwing up their hands in frustration of letting out audible sighs and grunts of disappointment. Aside from these occasional outbursts, the games remained jovial and full of camaraderie as teams laughed with each other and joked around.

Each round was a mad melee of flying dodgeballs, with some hitting the surrounding stands with fervor.

The teams came with a variety of creative names, including “Cell Block 6” and “Hard Time Targets” for the teams from the

Bridgeport Correctional Center, and “Average Slows” from Partners Café.

Jim Simonelli, a Fairfield University DPS officer, was one of the organizers of the event. “Myself and Officer Melanie Kaninski kind of spear-headed the event and we’re the ones that put it together,” he said. “This event will raise over $5000.”

Simonelli said he was proud of the event and excited that the Fairfield community was involved, including the local businesses that sponsored it in conjunction with the University.

The final bracket was a best of three rounds, pitting the Fairfield Fire Department against “Cell Block 6.” Players launched dodgeballs at each other to the pulsating beat of Salt-N-Pepa’s “Push It.” A brief but heated argument broke out between the two teams over a player who believed he wasn’t out after getting hit in the leg with a ball. However, after only a minute, the teams let it go and continued on with the game. In the end, the Fairfield Fire Department won after winning two rounds in a row.

They now have won both of the annual tournaments and Danielle Sondgeroth/The Mirror plan to continue their winning streak according to one of The dodgeball tournament took place at Alumni Hall on Feb. 8. the team members.

At the very end of the tournament, the MC went up from the crowd, the teams headed to the Levee for some announced that the event had raised well over $5000 and after a cheer well-deserved lunch.

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 12, 2020

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Candidates Jump for Votes in this Year’s Election Continued from Page One Gadioma currently serves as a member of the Honors Student Leadership Board and is the Chair of Social Events, working on programming and helping promote the social aspects of the Honors Program. He is also a FUSA Senator for the class of 2022 and sits on the Special Committee on Appointments.

“My committee has worked on the hot food market, I’m the chair of my own special committee and I got two justices appointed to the FUSA Court recently. I wrote two of the three resolutions that were ever put out this Senate session, and in addition I co-sponsored all of the bills,” Gadioma said, speaking to his work on the Senate.

“I have such great ambition, but when it comes to what I bring to the table, people can expect a lot of me.”

Ugwu emphasized the time-management skills he has gained from the variety of positions he has held, and using that time to produce tangible results.

“I’m the Creative Director of Fairfield at Night, and with that I’ve learned to Photo taken from sean_angelica2020 Instagram manage not just a small organization but my time as a bioengineering major who is Pictured: Miceli-Kaya and Crosby also pre-med and working as an undergraduate research assistant and newspaper position that’s taught me so much about myself and has given me all the more confidence than I got editor.” as an NSL. It’s proven that I am the president that the student body needs along with Ali,” Guerrera He also spoke to the value of being said. a member of the Ignatian Leadership She spoke further about what her time as FUSA Vice President has given her, and the parts of Residential College, and how it taught him that organization that mean so much both to her and to Fairfield. to be more emotionally sensitive.

“Being Vice President has given me an eye into FUSA that maybe no one gets to see. They “I have learned how to be vulnerdon’t get to see the importance of it on campus,” Guerrera said. “FUSA as an institution and as a able and open to criticism so my form governing body in the governing structure of the university has so much potential to make positive of leadership has really changed over the change for students, and I’ve been able to see that through the words I say when I’m meeting with course of one year in the [college],” Ugwu administration, which has been so rewarding.” said. “I’ve learned how to be a leader for Haidar spoke to his experience as a Senior Resident Assistant and how that position has given and with the people, taking all these things him the ability to work on a team in an open, responsible way.

I’ve learned through other positions on “Being a FUSA President or Vice President, you’re working with a team around you in differPhoto taken from noelle.and.ali Instagram campus and implementing them, while ent cabinets, whether that be Diversity [and Inclusion], whether that’s COSO, Treasury, Programalso...being willing to learn more and learn ming and Marketing,” Haidar said. “Being a Senior Resident Assistant, I work with eight other RAs Pictured: Guerrera and Haidar on the job.” and an area coordinator to learn conflict mediation, communication, accountability, transparency, Crosby spoke about his experience and those four things have really prepared me.” in a variety of campus leadership roles, ranging from a two year-long tenure as a New Student Leader, Haidar said that these skills have been enforced by his work as both the President and Founder to his senator position for the class of 2021 to his membership to the committee board of Erg-athon, of the Jou’sur Arab Club, along with his work as a FUSA Senator for the class of 2021. which is an annual charity event hosted by Men’s rowing to raise funds for gifts that go to children in To hear more from the candidates and to ask them questions on their platforms, be sure to the hospital. attend the Presidential Debate on Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 6:30 p.m. in the Dogwoods Room.

His running mate Miceli-Kaya, while discussing her time as a FUSA senator and the Secretary This article has been condensed. To read the full candidate remarks, visit fairfieldmirror.com. of the FUSA Senate in the two years afterwards, spoke about the personal qualities that contribute to Editor’s Note: Tobenna Ugwu is the current Coffee Break Editor of The Mirror. her role as a leader.

“I have the initiative to do things before being asked and the selflessness to always put others before myself. I also have the creativity when we all need a little spark in our lives and the resilience to face any adversity headon and conquer,” Miceli-Kaya said.

“I’ve received multiple academic honors in college regarding both my academics and community service so I know how to balance between school work and service. These qualities are essential for a leader to have because in order to find faith in others we must find the faith within ourselves.

I am able to recognize the qualities I possess within myself that will benefit me throughout the journey of being FUSA Vice President and serving others.”

While Guerrera has been involved in FUSA since her first year, first as first-year senator for the class of 2021 and then as a sophomore speaker of the Senate, she highlighted her work as a New Student Leader as a fundamental role that shaped her as a leader. Her work on FUSA and this time as an NSL is what she largely contributes to how she became the current FUSA Vice President alongside President Claire Monahan ‘20. She attributes the NSL program to her continued time at Fairfield and showed Photo taken from vinny.toby2020 Instagram her how to be a compassionate leader. “[Being an NSL] led me to being Vice President of FUSA, which is a Pictured: Gadioma and Ugwu

Fairfield Welcomes Siblings During Annual Weekend

By Colleen Vann Contributing Writer Fairfield University hosted its annual Siblings Weekend from Feb. 7 through Feb. 9 where siblings of all ages came to campus and engaged in a variety of activities.

The events and activities ranged to incorporate all ages and interests, and included movie showings, laser tag and mini golf, paint nights and excursions to sports games and trampoline parks. One of the events early on Sunday afternoon was making tie-dyed t-shirts in the lower level of the John A. Barone Campus Center.

Senior Justin Wooley was there with his two younger brothers Cooper, 10, and Ismael, 6. They had spent the whole weekend at Fairfield, and expressed their favor towards the Rockin’ Jump trip and the Bridgeport Sound Tigers hockey game.

“It’s a lot of fun,” Wooley said about the tradition of Siblings Weekend.

“The last time we did it was my sophomore year,” Wooley explained, since he was abroad last year. “They loved it so much so we were looking forward to it this year.”

One of the student programmers from the Fairfield University Student Association, Nicole Dana ‘22 said, “I think it’s kind of refreshing to see potential future stags! It’s really cute to see little kids around on campus. It shows that the Fairfield community is so much bigger than it is just on campus.”

First-year student Madison Gallo and her 12 year-old sister Payton were making tie-dye shirts as their weekend together came to an end.

“She was looking forward to this weekend before I even knew I was going here,” Gallo expressed about her sister’s excite-

ment for the annual event.

“We saw that it was a thing that happened every year and she was like ‘oh my gosh, you have to go to Fairfield,’” Gallo said.

Gallo’s sister Payton shared that she enjoyed getting to know her sister’s friends and that her favorite event was mini golf in the Dogwood Room.

Another FUSA programmer, Cailyn Fiori ‘22, expressed that she admired the inclusive atmosphere of Siblings Weekend.

“They encourage bringing people that might not actually be biological siblings, like cousins, friends from home, or any other extended family. I think that is really nice,” Fiori said.

Colleen Vann/The Mirror Sophomore Dori Bartush spent the Siblings make tie-dyed shirts together on Sunday, Feb. 9. weekend with her little cousin Molly, 9.

“I think it’s awesome!,” Bartush said “It’s a great opportunity for him to get up here and see about the tradition. “It’s nice to be able to Fairfi eld, and see what it’s like to live in college for a little bit,” said bond and the activities are fun.”

Chimel.

Bartush’s cousin joined her for Siblings Weekend last year Unfortunately Chimel’s brother had to work and couldn’t as well. She said that her favorite event was the laser tag in the make it to campus, so he will have to try again next year. The Oak Room on Friday night. diversity of the ages of the siblings is one of the stand out aspects It’s not just the much younger siblings and friends that of Fairfield’s version of a somewhat common college tradition. benefit from and enjoy the events of the weekend. In fact, many FUSA programmer Meghan Reilly ‘21 said, “It’s siblings of of the siblings that come for the weekend are high school stuall ages that come too, and there are events for all ages. So I think dents. it’s really cool that there are 5 years old that come, but there are Sophomore Conor Chimel was looking forward to having also 17 year-olds. It’s a great way to get everyone involved.” his 17 year-old brother come and stay with him.

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 12, 2020

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The Mirror Reects on this Week in Social Media Compiled by Colleen Vann Information contributed by the Department of Public Safety.

2/7 1:45 p.m A motor vehicle accident was reported. One vehicle backed into another vehicle on Murphy Road. An ambulance was requested by DPS for evaluation, but both parties remained unseen.

2/8 10:15 p.m The East card access door of Campion Hall was discovered having a broken window. Maintenance responded to the repair. There are no suspects at this time, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Department of Public Safety.

2/9 12:30 a.m An assault occurred at the townhouses. Two non-students were issued a Criminal Trespass Warning as a result. There were Fairfield students involved as well, and the situation is still under investigation by DPS. 2:06 a.m Two students were found in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia in Loyola Hall. They were referred to student conduct.

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Contact Information Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, BCC 104 Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824 General email: info@fairfieldmirror.com

The Mirror is the recognized student newspaper of Fairfield University. Opinions and ideas expressed herein are those of the individual student authors, and not those of the Fairfield University or its Board of Trustees

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News

THE MIRROR | Week of February 12, 2020

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Activities Fair Accentuates Campus Clubs

Fair offers opportunities for students to explore Fairfield’s organizations

By Caroline Chapman Contributing Writer

On Thursday Feb. 6, the Barone Campus Center busied with students as the spring activities fair was held in the Oak and Dogwood Rooms. For some students, this event marks their first exposure to what the Fairfield University experience offers outside of their quotidian academia, and to a handful of others it’s their chance to recruit new students seeking campus involvement.

Fairfield gives its students the opportunity to take part in more than one hundred varying clubs and organizations, seventy of which filled the room on Thursday. A table for just about every subject and activity lined the walls; from 3D printing to the weight lifting club.

There’s something special to be gained through club organizations at Fairfield in that they offer the possibility for students to find their niche within a larger student body, one that can serve their interests and better yet, something that may compliment their major.

Senior Hannah Sisk’s involvement with Women In Business came about after hearing of the club from a friend. As a double finance and marketing major, Sisk was drawn to the fact that it could help her navigate her future as a female in the businessworld.

“I think everyone should get involved in a club to not only meet other people but to explore topics other than ones covered in classes” said Sisk.

Hannah Sisk ‘20 and Kristin Veltry ‘20, both students within the Dolan School of Business, sit at the Women In Business table during the activities fair that took place on Thursday.

For sophomore Caroline Hadfield, this was just the case. Hadfield expressed that after switching majors first-year from education to a major in communications and a minor in digital journalism, becoming Caroline Chapman/The Mirror a member of The Point Magazine was her first exposure to the world of Sisk ‘20 and Veltry ‘20 sitting at the Women In Buisness table during the activities fair. digital media. life, outside involvement is often what can provide a sense of relief from the stress of “The club has impacted me academically because I am able to take schoolwork. things I’ve learned from classes and try and bring that into The Point, and vice versa. In For junior Lucie Picard, club lacrosse served as both her escape from academics but general I feel like I’m doing a lot more with myself and taking full advantage of my educaalso a group that exposed her to new friends outside of the classroom after transferring to tion here when being more involved in a club,” said Hadfield.

Fairfield.

And while academics are commonly seen as the focal point of a Fairfield student’s “I transferred here from Clemson University after my first semester freshman year.

You can only meet so many people in your classes and in the hallways of your dorm. But getting involved elsewhere is what really allowed me to feel like I had a place here” said Picard.

One of the more troublesome components of being a college student is grappling with the realization that your life exists in this singular sphere where your relationships, academics, hobbies and wellness are all forced to coexist.

“At this point ‘cura personalis’ is engraved in us. We are told from the beginning of our time here to care for all aspects of ourselves. If you seek the full Fairfield experience, I think club involvement is a crucial factor in fulfilling it,” said Picard.

The plethora of organizations and clubs that Fairfield has to offer allows students to find balance in what is often a difficult quest to find a routine amidst ceaseless deadlines and looming exams. With that, students seek a routine that both excites them but also delivers some sort of peace; peace from all the chaos that it is to be a college student.

“

At this point ‘cura personalis’ is engraved in us. We are told from the beginning of our time here to care for all aspects of ourselves. If you seek the full Fairfield experience, I think club involvement is a crucial factor in fulfilling it.”

- Lucie Picard ‘21

Opinion

Opinion

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 12, 2019

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

Groundhog Day is Not Reliable for Weather Predictions, But It's Still Fun to Celebrate

However, all of us should be aware that a groundhog is not a reliable predictor of the weather.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration claims that Phil was only correct in his predictions about 40 percent of On Sunday, Feb. 2, Punxsutawney Phil didn’t see his shadow due to the cloudy skies above; he the time in the past decade. Not too bad, condeclared an early spring for us all. sidering a groundhog can predict the weather We all love seeing the cute face of Punxsutawney Phil in almost half of the time. But, maybe we should the headlines on Feb. 2; it’s a tradition we have all come to leave the weather predictions to the meteoroloenjoy for the past century. Of course, it would be ridiculous gists next time, Phil. to think that a groundhog predicting the weather has any Funnily enough, Phil has only presort of basis in science. In 2020, as global warming is getting dicted an early spring 19 times in the 134 worse, and as we discover more and more about our earth’s years he’s been at it, and seven of those predicclimate, we understand that no one can predict two and a tions have been in the past 10 years. Although half months of weather, especially not a groundhog. there’s little scientific correlation between Phil’s There are merits to tradition, though. It’s always predictions and the weather, there may be interesting to hear what Punxsutawney Phil has to say, and some merit to his more recent decit’s always mentioned in small talk for the next few days. Aclarations on the weather. With cording to The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, the origin of global warming getting worse by a groundhog predicting the weather is grounded in the minute, it’s hardly a surprise a Christian tradition that started in ancient that we’re having earlier springs. times. I certainly don’t think we should Perhaps it’s not that winter went throw the whole practice away just because late, but that the world is startit’s not grounded in science; I think it's ing to get much warmer. In valuable to have fun and silly practices to January of 2020 it reached temlook forward to, especially for the kids of peratures in the 60’s. Although our nation. that was great for my morning There’s something wholesome commute across campus, it’s about celebrating such a fun and careconcerning for the future of free holiday; it reminds us to cherish the our Earth at large. smaller things in life. It’s obvious that For now though, let’s many people value the holiday regardjust focus on the cute, no stress less of its lack of deeper meaning. We holiday we get to look forward have an entire movie dedicated to it to once every year. Let Feb. 2 serve called “Groundhog Day” with Bill Muras a reminder that the little meaningless ray, one of our nation’s favorite actors. In things can be just as exciting to celebrate the grand scheme of things, it’s easy for as our biggest accomplishments. So, throw us to forget about the importance of celyourself a little party for getting an A on that ebrating the small things. Groundhog calculus exam, reward yourself with a NetfDay is an example of how we can take lix binge-watch for scoring that internship.

Pictured: Punxsutawney Phil with members of the Inner Circle a step back and get excited about the Regardless of the weather, just celebrate.

Photo Courtesy of @punxsyphil Instagram more meaningless things in life.

By Phoebe Charpentier Contributing Writer

Health Should be Given Priority Over Punishments for Crime With Menser’s crime history, she definitely should be facing at least some time in prison, but not 10 months, especially with the circumstances she faces. According to The New Ashley Menser, an advanced cancer patient, was sen- York Times, Menser has 13 prior theft issues. Clearly if she tenced to prison for 10 months after supposedly stealing is receiving punishment now for these previous ac$109.63 worth of groceries. tions, it is not doing anything to prevent her from According to The New York Times, John Fetterman, continuing to steal. “Why does she keep doing it?” the lieutenant governor of Pennsylvania, was extremely ag- is the question that I want to know the answer to. gravated over the consequences that Menser would be facing.

Menser should not have to face either servDue to his anger and frustration, he was ready to personally ing prison time or receiving the proper medical drop off a check for $109.63 to the grocery store she robbed care she needs. It is inhumane for Menser to be so that she would not face consequences. In the article, Fetter- faced with either life or death, because she must man makes it clear that he believes the consequences Menser serve her prison time and cannot get the health will face proves that there is something wrong with the crimi- services she needs. I strongly believe her health is nal justice system. way more important at this point. If she cannot get Menser, 36, suffers from advanced uterine and cervical the treatment she needs, it is as if the criminal justice cancer according to The New York Times. The system is choosing death for her. cancer types Menser has requires surgery One suggestion is to move the prison to remove her uterus and the tissue time to after she receives her surgery or around it or else she could face death. treatments that she needs. Whether she has All people who commit her punishment delayed or not, she will crimes deserve some type of punstill face consequences and hopefully ishment, but no matter who stole learn from it. this amount of groceries, whethWhile I do not think it is fair er they are ill or not, should not for the criminal justice system to be have to face 10 months in prisbiased towards anyone, according to on. While I believe 10 months The New York Times, Menser had an is an excessive punishment for appointment to meet with her oncoloMenser’s crime, she is said to have gist regarding ways to treat the disease. committed theft before. She must If this was the case, I do believe her health receive some type of consequence should come first as a priority especially Creative Commons/Free SVG, Pixabay because this crime is not as severe as oththat will teach her not to do it again.

By Alonna Nesto Contributing Writer

Editorial Board "Ben Solo Deserved Better" Julia Monteleone

Managing Editor

SPOILER WARNING: If you have not seen any of the Star Wars sequels including but not limited to “The Force Awakens,” “The Last Jedi” or “The Rise of Skywalker,” then DO NOT READ. You have been warned.

Okay now that that’s over with, I am going to talk about someone very dear to my heart, and I need any Star Wars fans to respect my opinion because I know that someone is going to hate me for this. Okay here it is: I love Ben Solo.

No, it is not just because my love for Adam Driver knows no bounds. I know that many people hated the sequel movies, and I know that “The Rise of Skywalker” may or may not have been dumpster fire when it comes to the grand scheme of the Star Wars universe.

However, Ben Solo’s redemption arc is perhaps my favorite thing about the sequels. The Force Awak-

Creative Commons/Pexels

ers. She did not kill or injure someone, she stole groceries.

As The New York Times reports, Menser’s lawyer mentioned home confinement instead of prison time, but the judge refused to comment on this suggestion.

While Mr. Fetterman feels strongly that something must be changed with the criminal justice system and those who have mental or physical issues and commit crimes, I do not think it is his place to get involved.

When thinking about the best solution for this situation, I think about if one of my family members was in this position and what I would want to happen. While it is extremely heartbreaking to think about it, Menser could be spending some of her last days in prison which is sad and awful to think about.

ens introduces the high and mighty Kylo Ren, and yes I know he’s evil, but from the moment he takes his helmet off while Rey is strapped to a table, he just seemed so human to me. That was the end of it...the rest is history. I fell in love.

In all seriousness though, I truly believe that Adam Driver brought a very human dynamic to the character that not many actors could have. You don’t have to hear Rey talk about seeing the conflict in him, because you know. You can see the conflict in his eyes when Rey tells him that he will turn to the light. When they touch hands in the hut in Ach-To, you can see that Ben wants Rey to join him, not just because of how powerful she is.

At the Battle of Crait, we see Ben truly tested when it comes to the dark and the light. He chooses Rey over his very own master, the master who has in-

vaded his mind long before he ever knew her. This begins the fall of the mighty Kylo Ren, exposing the very afraid and unsure man that is Ben Solo.

The culmination of this comes in “The Rise of Skywalker” the moment he sees Han Solo and calls him Dad. Rey had just healed him from a life-threatening injury that she bestowed on him, and now he must make a choice what to do next. When I was in the theatre and he tossed his saber into the ocean, everyone cheered.

But let’s skip to the end because I don’t have enough words here to express all of my feelings. When Ben descends upon Exegol to help Rey and loses his life trying to save her, my heart of course broke. But in the end, his story comes to a finish by giving his life for a scavenger he wanted beside him all along.

THE MIRROR | Week of February 12, 2019

Opinion

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Republicans Will Do Anything to Protect Their President and Gain his Approval

By Stella Henry Contributing Writer

But given the insurmountable number of senators that would themselves in the process. Several months ago, a whistleblower first came forward with allegations concerning a phone call that took place need to be convinced to remove Trump from office, many would argue It has by now become apparent that President Donald J. Trump between Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, the president of Ukraine. that it doesn’t matter that witnesses won’t be called since Trump would holds an iron grip on the Republican Party. That said, in the wake of The whistleblower alleged that there existed a “quid pro quo,” or a “fa- be acquitted regardless. A trial without witnesses, however, is no trial his impeachment by the House of Representatives, many held out vor for a favor,” between the two countries, in which Trump agreed to at all. Calling witnesses would allow the senate to send a message that hope that there would be enough senators willing to vote “aye” on the release $400 million dollars in military aid for Ukraine only if Zelensky they prioritize the facts, notwithstanding what they decide to make of issue of calling witnesses to the impeachment trial last week. For a agreed to allow the Ukrainian government to open an investigation them. The decision to not call witnesses says, “We don’t care what the into Joe Biden and his son, Hunter Biden, over facts of the case are. We don’t care that a crime was committed, bebrief time, it seemed within reach, even if it was cause the president is above the law.” Plus, if Republicans were really Hunter’s business dealings in Ukraine. a long shot. But any hopes of the trial includIt should be noted that there is no evi- so confident that Trump had done nothing wrong, they would vote for ing witness testimony were dashed last Friday, dence of any wrongdoing on the part of the witnesses without hesitation. But in recent days, members of the party, as reported by Politico, when Senators Lamar Bidens in Ukraine, but even if there were, it both privately and publicly, have admitted that Trump had made a seAlexander and Lisa Murkowski, who were seen doesn’t take a genius to realize that doing what rious mistake in withholding the military aid. Quoted by Salon, Senaas crucial swing votes on the issue, announced Trump did was highly illegal and wholly un- tor Murkowski, who voted against calling witnesses, said that Trump’s that they would be voting against the resolupresidential. In the wake of the allegations, behavior was “shameful and wrong,” and Senator Alexander, who is tion to call witnesses. Consequently, The New Republicans swiftly came out of the woodwork retiring from the Senate but still voted not to call witnesses, said in York Times reported that the 51 votes opposing to repeat Trump’s mantra of “no quid pro quo,” an interview, "I think he shouldn't have done it. I think it was wrong.” the resolution outnumbered the 49 votes supand that the phone call between the two lead- After voting not to convict the president on the impeachment charges, porting it, meaning that no witnesses would ers was perfectly ordinary. But when more and Senator Collins stated that the phone call with Zelensky was “impropbe called, assuring a speedy acquittal for the more evidence began to emerge that there was er and demonstrated very poor judgment,” as reported by NBC News. president. It was a decision that was split almost But in a comment that raised eyebrows, Collins also said that a “quid pro quo,” Republicans changed their entirely down party lines, with just two Repubdefense to, “So what if there was a quid pro she believed that the president had learned his lesson and would be licans, Susan Collins and Mitt Romney, voting quo?” Then, the prevailing argument became more cautious in the future. “The president has been impeached. to call witnesses. that even if it was wrong for Trump to withhold That's a pretty big lesson,” she proclaimed. To that, I say, when pigs It was a disappointing blow to Demomoney in exchange for political favors, it didn’t fly. The idea that Trump is finally going to see the light now in 2020 crats, who had made an impassioned case that rise to the level of an impeachable offense. Fur- even though he has never apologized for or expressed remorse for anyTrump withheld hundreds of millions of dollars ther still, some Republicans began to argue that thing he has done in his life so far, is laughable. And it appears that he in military aid for Ukraine in exchange for digeven if it was an impeachable offense, Trump has already proven Collins wrong, saying in a statement from NPR, ging up dirt on his potential election opponent still should not be removed from office because “We went through hell, unfairly. I did nothing wrong.” That same day, Joe Biden, obstructed congressional investigait is not in the best interest of the country or be- Trump waltzed into the East tion into the matter by blocking witcause it is an election year. But if committing an Room of the White House nesses from testifying, and that this inimpeachable offense does not warrant removal and held up a copy of The deed constituted an impeachable offense Photo Courtesy of @nytimes Instagram from office, what does?

Washington Post displaying under the “high crimes and misdemeanIt’s clear that Republicans will not hold the headline, “Trump Acors” clause. As quoted by Newsweek, in lead prosecutor Representative Adam Schiff ’s closing argument, he Trump accountable for anything he does, and they would probably be quitted.” He did this as the implored Republicans: “Truth matters to you. Right matters to you. up in arms if a Democrat did something even 1/10th as wrong. This, song “Hail to the Chief ” played You are decent. He is not who you are.” But given that 67 of the 100 to- more than anything else, comes down to fear. In other words, Republi- in the background. tal senators would be needed to convict Trump and remove him from cans shield Trump from being held to the same standards as any other office, according to the New York Times, and that doing so would be a citizens would because they fear him. They fear him because they have nearly impossible feat given the senate’s current makeup, does it even seen what happens to those in their party who call Trump out on his matter that no witnesses will be called? After all, the result--Trump’s wrongdoings or dare to criticize him in any way - getting harassed on acquittal--would likely be the same either way. But just as impeaching by Trump himself on Twitter and eventually getting forced out of ofTrump for his wrongdoings sends a powerful message, even if it does fice altogether, whether due to resignation or simply getting not lead to a conviction, so too would calling witnesses to the trial even voted out. Highly emblematic of this is the warning that Republicans reportedly received from the White House if Trump would be acquitted regardless.

Republicans have stopped at nothing to come up with defenses that said “vote against the president and your head will be on a pike,” as quoted by NBC News.

Pictured: President Donald J. Trump for the phone call to Ukraine, sometimes contradicting Photo Courtesy of @realdonaldtrump Instagram

Letter to the Editor

Black History Month Should Celebrate Impacts of African Americans

By Catherine Santangelo Opinion Editor Creative Commons/ Wikimedia Commons

Dear Editor, In the progressive sphere, negative stereotypes are commonly thrown around to describe conservative activists or conservatives in general. One of the worse terms, “extremist,” may constitute a violation of your ethical standards.

This term “extremist” was recently used to characterize a conservative activist's beliefs. “Extremist” is used in discourse to justify ostracization, legal action, and even violence against people. It is synonymous with fanatic, radical or zealot, and carries the implication that one intends to advocate for or resort to extreme action. Why is this unethical rhetoric apparently allowed by The Mirror? I have seen pieces that use this type of unethical language, usually about conservatives, continually pop up over the years.

Writers being mostly progressive is not a problem. Free speech is protected here. I know that. However, when I contacted the opinion editor about what standards the opinion pieces in the Opinion section are held to, I was told that there is an ethical code that you follow. Students may hold free speech rights, but now I understand that The Mirror edits the pieces to remove anything “inappropriate” as well. That was the term used to describe the policy. I was only referred to the formal policy after pressing further.

If applying negative stereotypes and derogatory labels to conservative figures is not “inappropriate” then why do you have the ethical standard against “negative stereotyping?” Many issues over the years have contained these types of low rhetorical attacks on decent people and beliefs, usually conservatives. When common pro-life or pro-second amendment beliefs are casually characterized as extremism, hasn’t the threshold for “inappropriate” been passed?

Black History Month is a celebration that is observed throughout the entire month of February when important African American people and events are remembered and celebrated. During the 2020 Grammy Awards show on Jan. 26, Google aired a commercial in celebration of Black History Month called “The Most Searched: A Celebration of Black History Makers.” In this commercial, “the most searched” is written across the screen and as the advertisement progresses, the saying is filled in with different topics that people have searched for the most. In the background of the text, video clips are playing of the people or things that have been the most searched.

What is special about this commercial is that all of the most searched for items that it includes involve a significant African American figure or event. For example, the ad shows the text that says “the most searched gymnast” with a video clip of Simone Biles, and “the most searched movement” with clips of the Civil Rights Movement playing in the background. Despite the emotional and empowering message that Google’s commercial displays about how much of an impact African American people and events have had on our world in the realms of

Matthew Breton Fairfield University Student Creative Commons/Wikimedia Commons, Wikipedia

art, sports, history and so many more, this commercial has been received in a less positive light because of the tragic history and continued obstacles that African American people face in this country alone.

I object to these less positive views because Google’s commercial was not aired for the purpose of reflecting back on the hardships that African American people have dealt with and are still currently dealing with. Instead, it’s purpose is to reflect on the amazing things that this group of people have done and the truly meaningful impact that they have had on our world. They are not the most searched on Google in their respective categories for nothing.

In a CNN opinion article, the author Richard J. Reddick sheds light on how this commercial, though giving him a sense of “pride,” also led him to realize that he could “recount examples of how many of these same heroes were pressured into silence” when advocating for equality and other issues. His realization is unfortunately true, and with him being an African American man, it is understandable that he has these views. However, he is choosing to look at this commercial in a more negative light as opposed to letting it be a celebration of African American culture during Black History Month.

It is clear that racism and racial inequality do still exist today in many forms, which is a terrible thing that I hate to have to admit about our society, but thankfully it is nowhere near as horrific as it was back in the times of slavery and into Jim Crow laws and segregation. We have come a long way since then, but we still have a long way to go in terms of creating true equality among all people. Google’s commercial is a step in the right direction because it celebrates the lives and history of a group of people who have suffered long enough just because of the color of their skin.

I choose to view the commercial as a positive thing with a beautiful message because we will get nowhere as a society if we keep living in the negativity of the past.

Instead, we must find solutions to our problems and look towards a brighter future where we can all live in unity and appreciate each other for the wonderful things that we bring into the world. We are all human and we all have things that are worth celebrating. Google’s commercial capitalizes on this idea by recognizing the most searched African American figures and events. Google’s commercial concludes by saying, “To the history makers and those they inspire...Search on.” We should take this advice to search on and find the answers to a future that we can celebrate.

The Vine

arts, entertainment, features Editor Gracianne Eldrenkamp gracianne.eldrenkamp@student.fairfield.edu

The Oscars are On their Way Out

CreativeCommons/Needpix.com CreativeCommons/Pixabay

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 12, 2020

The Oscars Take One Step Forward, Two Steps Back

By Gracianne Eldrenkamp Vine Editor

laugh about the anonymity and apparent “irrelevance” of film industry people that are integral to the filmmaking process. Especially since certain awards, including the cinematography award, were almost taken off air last year, the joke felt insensitive to the underdogs of filmmaking.

Overall, I don’t think the Academy is learning its lesson. They have a particular idea of what an “Oscar winner” is, and the film industry is moving to a place where that is no longer acceptable. They also don’t show respect for people in the film industry that don’t have notable fame. The Academy Awards are supposed to reflect the film industry, and if they don’t change their mindset soon, they will lose that respect.

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The Academy Awards, like many award shows, have been under criticism the last few years because of its lack of diversity in nominees and winners. While there has been some improvement, there has also been a good amount of stagnation. The 92nd Academy Awards, which happened Sunday, Feb. 9, are no exception to that rule. Although it seems like they have made a lot of progress this year, there are major areas where progress isn’t visible at all.

The biggest stride for the Academy Awards was changing the “Best Foreign Language Film” category to “Best International Feature.” Instead of othering the films in the category with the term “foreign,” it insinuates a future where international films are celebrated just as much as American films. This change was further impacted by the winner of Best Picture, “Parasite,” a Korean language film about class struggle.

Although I loved a lot of the winners this year, the nominations as a whole felt lacking in diversity. Women were notably absent from the major categories, despite the growing number of female directors creating award-worthy films including Greta Gerwig for “Little Women” and Lulu Wang for “The Farewell.”

“Hair Love,” a heartwarming story about a father trying to do his daughter’s hair for the first time, won for “Best Animated Short.” It not only features black characters in the film, but the writer and director, Matthew Cherry, is black as well. However, there was only one black nominee in the major categories, which was Cynthia Erivo for best actress. With the past years of Oscar nominations being a bit more diverse, the 92nd Academy Awards felt more white than ever.

I think the newest concern of mine regarding the Oscars is its treatment of lesser known awards. Three different presentations of awards seemed to disregard the impact of those roles in filmmaking. Rebel Wilson and James Corden presented the award for visual effects dressed in their characters’ costumes from “Cats.” They joked about the failure of visual effects and the importance of good visual effects, but it seemed like a strange choice. Instead of blaming the production as a whole, or even mentioning the subpar writing and directing in “Cats,” they used visual effects artists as a scapegoat to be the butt of a joke in the presentation of their own award. Even the Visual Effects Society saw the potential issues with the segment and voiced their concerns.

The “Best Visual Effects” winner was “1917,” which used the same Visual Effects house as “Cats,” Moving Picture Company.

Similarly, Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Will Ferrell presented the awards for cinematography and editing, acting as though they had no idea what those roles did. Although the two were undeniably funny, it felt a bit disheartening to see such big, influential actors Bong Joon Ho won "Best Picture" for "Parasite."

A Filmmakers' focus on Cuban Society

By Molly Lamendola Assistant Vine Editor

media in the way we do and a lot cheaper.

This might seem like a bulletproof endeavor and you as someone who might be paying $5/month just for a student Hulu and Spotify subscription might be jealous of this. But this system comes from a country that still has a lot of flaws.

The other two filmmakers on the panel show us these flaws closer. Yaima Pardo’s film points out that though the Paquete has filled some media gaps in Cuba, this doesn’t fix the flaws in the system.

As the lack of reliable internet connection has created a society where Cuba’s most highly educated, college students, don’t know what Facebook is or at least 80-90 percent of them don’t. Using interviews and dynamic flashing images, Pardo is able to portray the work that still needs to be done in Cuba.

Yet out of all the panelists, it was Javier Labrador Deulofeu who spoke most clearly to the issues Cuba is still having with media censorship, as his film “Santa & Andrés” was actually banned in Cuba for one particular scene. This scene shows a revolutionary writer’s house get searched and destroyed by the government, and though the government finds none of his writing hidden, they still proceed to throw eggs at him as the gentleman cries. Yeah, not a great look for the government and understandable why they wanted this film hidden from the larger Cuban society.

Yet, though banned on Cuban screens, the film still found its way onto the Paquete for audiences to see, as it's hard, or nearly impossible for the government to monitor every film that finds its way onto the Paquete. This allows a select amount of Cubans to view the government in its correct light, censorship be damned.

While studying a particular piece of art, an art historian has to acquire a holistic education on not only the physical aspects of the piece but what was going on in the artist’s world during its creation.

This is of particular importance with politically motivated pieces, and in “Archives of Consciousness: 6 Cuban Artists,” which opened on Jan. 24 in the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts.

Curated by the Fairfield University Art Museum, these curators understand the importance of seeing all aspects of a culture to fully understand its art. Thus, there is a whole array of Cuban-related content and presentations this semester for those interested in having a multi-faceted understanding of the art, and the world the artists were living and working in. To understand Cuba’s relationship to media and how they receive news and content, the panel "Cuba Today: Internet Access, the Paquete, and the New Filmmakers" was held on Feb. 7.

At least to me, Cuba is never at the forefront of my mind. If put under some pressure all I’d rattle off about Cuba is somewhere along the lines of, “They’re a country frozen in time and thus have some pretty cool old cars. Oh,and I guess the whole Missile Crisis thing.” Not a total portrait of a nation that has its own culture, traditions and national identity. Opening the panel, Michelle Farrell, PhD, of the Fairfield University Modern Languages Department, warned us of this view. She said that Cuba is not a box that is just opened whenever US policies allow it. While we see Cuba as isolated and frozen in time, it’s a nation that’s constantly changing and evolving in the confinement of the space they have.

This is especially aided by the almost democratic acquisition of media. In the United States, as you might know, the media is a capitalist enterprise. If you want to watch “Game of Thrones,” you have to pay $14.99/month for HBO. If you’re more interested in “Bojack Horseman,” then that’s a $9/month Netflix charge. Or maybe you’re not a television person and just want to read the New York Times by the fireplace like an elegant lady, that’s $15.99/month, plus whatever the cost of the wine you’re drinking. When you begin to add it all up media and knowledge are pricey in the states!

Yet, Cubans have figured out a system where you could get one terabyte of content for just around two dollars, also known as the Paquete, which artist Julia Weist on the panel focused her work on.

I know you might be asking, “Great, but what’s a terabyte?” I get it, I’m known as the tech wizard in my household and it’s only because my response to anything breaking is, “Just turn it on and off ” and that hasn’t failed me yet. Basically, after some light research, a terabyte is about 1,000 gigabytes. But, again, what in the world does that mean? Think of it like this: a movie, like a big hefty and long feature film is about three gigabytes. Meaning, that on this one flash drive, a Cuban could buy about 300 or so movies.

As Weist shows us, the Paquete is not just movies. For two dollars you receive an entire array of different media content. Do you want magazines? Bam! Do you want some music videos? Bam! Do you want some pirated HBO shows? Bam! The Paquete has it all. Due to the lack of piracy laws in Cuba and the lack of a reliable internet connection, this is nearly the only way Cubans can interact with the Students watch documentary on Paquete in Cuba.

Molly Lamendola/The Mirror

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'Birds of Prey' Provides Passionless Characters

By Tyler Zikias Film Columnitst “Birds of Prey (and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn)” follows Harley Quinn (Margot Robbie) in the aftermath of the events of “Suicide Squad.” Her and The Joker have broken up and now, without his protection, the kingpins of Gotham crime see it as an opportunity to kill Harley with no interference, including Roman Sionis (Ewan McGregor). Meanwhile, Harley meets other anti-heroines Black Canary (Jurnee Smollett-Bell), Renee Montoya (Rosie Perez), Huntress (Mary Elizabeth Winstead) and Cassandra Cain (Ella Jay Basco) who all have their own vendettas against Sionis to become the “Birds of Prey.” With the film being a direct sequel to the disastrous, “Suicide Squad,” I had some reservations in regard to my expectations for “Birds of Prey.” I at least expected the film to be a little more fun with better action, especially with Margot Robbie returning as Harley and “John Wick” director Chad Stahelski choreographing some of the action sequences. While I can’t say that I loved “Birds of Prey” due to its severe lack of character development and unnecessarily messy narrative, I can say that it is a lot of fun with a big heart and strong performances.

Without a doubt the strongest aspect of the film is Margot Robbie as Harley. If the Academy wasn’t completely against comic book movies that weren’t dark and gritty, Robbie should probably be nominated for an Oscar next year. Her performance, while insane and hilarious, has a considerable amount of damage tucked behind her smile that provides a lot of background to the torture The Joker has put her through. Ewan McGregor also is having so much fun playing Roman Sionis, or Black Mask. It’s such a boisterous take on a character whose comic book inspiration is methodical and calculated, that McGregor’s performance works rather well on its own.

The action sequences in “Birds of Prey” are the real selling point for the film as a whole. Generally, comic book movies don’t have much to offer when it comes to well-choreographed, well-shot, and well-edited fight scenes. “Birds of Prey” excels in its high octane and diverse variety in its action sequences. There are two sequences that standout as some of the best action sequences I’ve seen in a while. There is one scene early in the movie that takes place in a police evidence room that felt straight out of a “John Wick” movie

in the best way possible. They’re all incredibly visceral without becoming hard to follow.

My major problem with “Birds of Prey” is how little the film chooses to characterize anyone outside of Harley in favor of a plot-driven narrative. Sure, the cast does a fine job with the material they are given, but I never cared for anyone outside of Harley. A lot of the characters are introduced through flashbacks told

by Harley, which rarely ever lands effectively in this movie. Huntress’s story isn’t even told until the third act, which makes her feel even more pointless in regard to the film as a whole.

The narrative is not driven by character choices, but by a diamond that Black Mask wants.

It isn’t a macguffin of interest to the audience which makes the film feel inorganic in the way it plays out. With the non-chronological way that the film is structured, the story and characters suffer by being underdeveloped and hard to follow at times.

“Birds of Prey” is fine. It has some good things and some bad things. It’s a movie you can watch for 2 hours and have a good time, as much as it’s a movie you will most likely forget about in a few days. Technically, it is well made with strong shot composition and well choreographed fight sequences. However, the film could have benefitted with a more cohesive narrative driven by character choices rather than a diamond that the bad guy wants.

The film is on the fringe of being a recommendation from me. If you love comic book movies, I would say that it’s worth a watch, but if you haven’t been a fan of the direction that DC Comics movies have been going recently, I would recommend skipping this one.

Grade: C+

The Mirror Abroad: Sightseeing with Sarah

By Sarah Beverly Abroad Columnist

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I like to say that I have three separate lives: one in my childhood home of Stonington, Connecticut, one at Fairfield University and one in Florence, Italy.

At home, my routine consists of waking up late and heading to work in food service. I recognize all of the locals and get along with my coworkers who are more or less the same rotation of college students working for minimum wage.

At Fairfield, if it’s a Monday or Thursday, I might set an alarm for my 8 a.m. Mass Media class in the same sweatshirt and leggings that I wore to sleep, grab a coffee and head to the Daniel and Grace Tully Dining Commons.

In Florence, I am one of nearly 400,000 inhabitants. Besides the occasional glance from Florentines to affirm that I am in fact American, I can maintain anonymity. A ten minute walk to class is a breeze and I wouldn’t be caught dead on the streets wearing leggings.

Before coming to Florence, my perception of the city looked like a blurry walk down cobblestone streets and the Statue of David in the square. Come to find out, this is not the case. For one, the Statue of David is housed in a museum that I have yet to see. But also, Florence is made up of streets and sidewalks and modern storefronts much like an American city.

What you see on Instagram can be a glorified version of the person or place that is featured. It is astonishing how a place like Florence with its picture-perfect Renaissance architecture and gelato on a cone can feel like home.

There is something special about the act of mundane tasks such as walking to the local grocery store with a bag in hand, or grabbing a textbook from the Paperback Exchange. The grocery stores are a real gem. They look like an average convenience store from the outside, easy to overlook. But once you walk inside, it is a never-ending maze of fresh produce and Italian brands. The shelves are stocked with enough bread, pasta and EVOO to fill an entire Stop and Shop.

If you are looking to improve your Italian, go to the grocery stores. It’s a true guessing game without the help of Google Translate. I realize that I am coming off as an ignorant American study abroad student who can only pronounce “Ciao” and “Grazie,” but that is just the fact of the matter.

To my surprise, it has been difficult to speak any language besides English. Every person that I encounter, including store clerks and professors, speak English before I can let out a “Buongiorno.” I guess that I will have to maintain my streak on Duolingo if I want to get to know the local people.

Despite the language barrier, I have picked up on Italian culture. I have opted to make some traditional Italian meals such as bruschetta and pesto pasta al dente. I also find myself eating dinner around 8 p.m., far past the Tully rush.

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Broaden Your Knowledge with Nonfiction Novels

By Sheila McCombs Chief Copy Editor I have made it very clear in this paper that I love books. There is nothing that makes me happier than two things: reading a good book and recommending books to others. I know that my taste in books, characterized by the phrase “I’ll read anything with words,” may be too broad for some people. So, in this article I am focusing on one genre: nonfiction. One of my new year's resolutions is to learn new things and everytime I read a nonfiction book I always leave it feeling like I have been educated in some way. Hopefully, you can find a nonfiction book in this article that fits your taste!

Sapiens, A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harai Ok, so the title of this book is a little intimidating but give me a chance here. This book has been an international bestseller with book jacket quotes from Bill Gates and Barack Obama, at the very least you will look smart carrying it around. But really, this book works through the way that humans evolved from neanderthals until now, using history, biology and anthropology. The way this book is told isn’t pretenious like some books about science can feel, and it still doesn’t dumb down the information so much that it makes the reader feel stupid. This book works through the answers to questions like: why do humans seem to disobey the laws of natural selection, which I have never even thought of! So, give it a try, you may learn something!

Yes She Can by Molly Dillon and Co.

CreativeCommons/Flickr

It is a fact that we live in pretty dark political times. You can find books all over the place that analyse the political problems that America is facing as a country that are as cynical as you can get.

However, I think that sometimes in dark times it's good to look for something that can inspire us to work harder and be better. That is where this book, “Yes She Can,” comes in. The subtitle of this book is “10 Stories of Hope and Change from Young Female Staffers of the Obama White House,” and nothing that I can say will describe the book better than that. This book is told in a series of short stories, where each chapter is written by a different author. The women who have submitted stories to this book show the joy of public service and the effect it can have for the good of others. Even though this book came out a few years ago, I think its message is as relevant as it was when it was released.

Hotbox by Matt and Ted Lee I love books about cooking and restaurants and went through a period this summer where that was the only thing that I was reading. This book was a product of that time and one of the best of the bunch. “Hotbox” takes the reader inside the world of catering, described as “The Food World’s Riskiest Business” on the front cover. The book gets its title from the speed rack/Streno contraption that makes for the primary cooking device for catering in places without an oven. This is a facet of the food world that remains mostly unknown to people outside of the business, and it is filled with crazy ups and downs. The book talks about the perils of this high risk and high reward style of cooking while adding in amazing stories about catering in some of the most sought after venues in Manhattan including a wedding in The New York Public Library. This book has enough action that even if you don’t love learning about food or the restaurant business, you will find something to love in this book!

Naturally Tan by Tan France If you have never watched or at least heard about the cultural phenomon that is the Netflix reboot of “Queer Eye” in the last two years since it premired, go Google it and then rethink your life choices up until this point. This show has taken the world by storm and has catapulted the main cast of the show, “The Fab Five,” to a huge level of stardom. This book is a memoir by the fashion expert, Tan France, about his life before the show, how he was chosen and what his life looks like now. It is a coming of age story about his experience growing up as a gay South-Asian man in a small town in England and it also follows his professional story before landing his role on “Queer Eye.” With anecdotes of fashion advice and the love story of France and his-now husband, the book is warm and personable unlike any other celebrity biography that I have read in a while. This book is the perfect memoir for people who don’t love celebrity style memoirs and who want a mix of fun and serious.

Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb This book is definitely one of the most talked about books of 2019. It was a New York Times bestseller and has become a large topic of critical acclaim across the country. It follows the real-life story of the author, who is a clinical psychologist. It follows multiple plot lines from her patients, her journey to becoming a therapist and her own relationship with therapy. The catalyst to this book is her return to therapy after a terrible break-up rocks her mental health. This book is a real examination of the way that therapy can help affect mental health and what makes therapy productive. I loved this book because of how real the stories were and how it demonstrates the effects of therapy on people with a wide range of needs and problems. This book also humanizes therapists and shows how no one is exempt from sometimes needing to talk to someone. I can’t recommend it enough!

So, I hope you find a book to love in this list and that your 2020 is full of books!

Outstanding Oscars Outfits

By Christina Engelke Contributing Writer

but sometimes they do, like Portman, who chose to showcase the names of female directors who were snubbed by this year’s nominations via embroidery along the trim of her cape. She paired the black Dior cape with a black and gold Dior Haute Couture embroidered gown. While her Cartier rings and earrings were inarguably gorgeous, it was her voice and female empowerment which served as her strongest accessory of the evening.

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This past Sunday’s 92nd annual Academy Awards concluded the 2020 awards’ season in a big way. The Academy Awards, or Oscars, are known for epitomizing all the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and movie-stardom. The grand finale of the year’s most exciting moments in celebrity achievement and fashion is met each year with high hopes and standards. Before history was made on the stage of the iconic Dolby Theatre in L.A., the stars took the red carpet by storm with sensational style choices. On and off the stage, there were wins and losses all around in terms of fashion. From capes to crystals, there is lots to unpack from all of this year’s best dressed Oscar attendees.

Janelle Monáe stunned and sparkled in a custom hand-embellished crystal gown by Ralph Lauren. Before opening the show with a killer musical performance, the musician and actress walked the carpet, dropping jaws along the way. According to the designer’s recent Instagram post, “The look combined lacquered silk lamé tulle with three sizes of faceted crystals, more than 168,000 in total, requiring 600 hours to embroider each by hand.” The time and dedication shined through in every sparkle of every crystal. Perhaps the most intriguing element of the stunning silhouette is the attached draped hood. The way in which it frames her striking red lip is gorgeous, and the key hole cut out back makes it even more exciting. Monáe is undoubtedly my personal choice for best dressed.

However, there were more than Monáe who turned heads on the carpet. Kaitlyn Dever was an eyecatching lady-in-red in a floor-length silk gown adorned with two-toned fuschia glass beads and 14,400 Swarovski crystals. Not only was the Louis Vuitton look breathtakingly beautiful and detailed, but it was also completely sustainable.

In partnership with Red Carpet Green Dress, the up and coming young actress proudly proclaimed to the press her support for sustainable fashion. Along with Dever, Cynthia Erivo stunned in an Atelier Versace ball gown with a fitted embroidered and netted bodice with a full skirt. The lead actress nominee rocked a center slit revealing a pair of platform Stuart Weitzmen heels and was dripping in Piaget and Maria Tash jewels.

Finally, my favorite and honestly most unexpected trend of the Oscars was the capes that took the carpet by storm. While I caught glimpses of quite a variety of capes from the Academy Awards and after parties, my favorites to rock the look were undoubtedly Brie Larson and Natalie Portman. Larson shined in an embroidered Celine by Hedi Slimane gown accompanied by simple yet stunPhoto Courtesy of @natalieportman Instagram ning Bulgari rings and earrings. The pink gown included a plunging neckline Natalie Portman (left) and Janelle Monae (right) pose for pictures at the Oscars Red Carpet. and a high slit as well as the floor length cape. They say not all heroes wear capes,

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THE MIRROR | Week of February 12, 2020

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AnimalCrossingToComeBack Inkwell Spotlight

By Michael Riggi Contributing Writer

In just a little over a month, “Animal Crossing: New Horizons,” the latest entry in Nintendo’s extremely charming and characteristic video game series, is set to sail over to the Nintendo Switch console. Despite the game launching on March 20, longtime fans of the “Animal Crossing” franchise are beginning to worry about the state of the game due to lack of information about new content while advertisements proficiently build up hype for the game.

Originally announced in a Nintendo Direct presentation in September 2018 and planned to launch the following year, “New Horizons” was delayed until early 2020 to give the development team more time to work on the newest outing. While minor snippets of gameplay released within recent weeks seem to showcase some noticeably enhanced graphics, Nintendo has not announced any new major gameplay features since June of last year at E3 2019.

Although some fans of the series enjoy going into new entries completely “blind,” many members of the Nintendo community are beginning to criticize the company for failing to release new information about the game since it is dropping in less than a month. Compared to other Nintendo Switch titles like “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” and “Super Mario Maker 2,” which garnered a considerable amount of advertisement months before their releases, most “Animal Crossing” fans feel like they are being left behind in the dust.

While the company has slowly started to tease minor snippets of information the past few weeks in the forms of new high-resolution character models and a new tropical-themed “Animal Crossing” Nintendo Switch console, “New Horizons” is a game still shrouded in mystery. Having waited nearly eight years since the last main series entry (“Animal Crossing: New Leaf ”) and over eleven years for a new home console entry (“Animal Crossing: City Folk”), fans are becoming restless for new “Animal Crossing” content.

A lot of new information about the game has also come in the form of leaks rather than through officials at Nintendo themselves. Many fans were displeased to hear from a leaker that “New Horizons” will not

support cloud saves and will only allow players to create one island per console (despite multiple user accounts). The leak (based on information from a German download card) also confirmed that players cannot move save data between different Nintendo Switch consoles.

The deadly coronavirus has also posed potential troubles for the new game in Japan as it has caused delays for the production of many Nintendo Switch console units and related hardware. With the disease continuing to affect thousands of people in China and other areas around the world, the video game industry is likely to face many setbacks in the near future.

Despite frustration from fans and the more serious threat of the coronavirus, players around the world are eagerly awaiting to play “New Horizons” in late March. Fans unanimously seem to agree that what has been shown of “New Horizons” so far is cute, charming and lives up to the “Animal Crossing” name. Within the final weeks leading up to the release of the game, players are patiently waiting for new gameplay trailers and are hopeful that the final product will

Waiting Games

By Margaret Moore Contributing Writer at the Inkwell

Wait And see How the story Unfolds.

For writers May have ideas, But we all know that The plot twists itself And dictates where it’s meant to go.

Wait and see How the memoir Materializes.

For the pieces of life Are already Provided, But The order in which they are told Turns out to be A detail That the memoir And its flow Has decided.

Wait and see how The poem Unfolds.

The greatest of poets Realize that the lines Invite themselves Into the mind, Leaving instructions for their rhythms and rhymes.

Wait and see How life Will unfold.

CreativeCommons/Pixabay

For we may have plans, But each day writes a new tale And leaves us to discover Moments of gold.

CreativeCommons/Pixabay

An Album You'll Really Love for Valentine's

By Julia Monteleone Managing Editor I’m not gonna lie. I loved the “To All The Boys I Loved Before” book series by Jenny Han well before Netflix blessed us by making it come to life. Peter Kavinsky was, and still is, a dream to me. The sequel is coming to Netflix TODAY just in time for Valentines.

However, this is not about the lovely Lana Condor or the appearance of Jordan Fisher to rival the one and only Noah Centineo. This is about more important factors that come with films: the soundtrack. When it came down to writing this article it was almost a no-brainer when seeing the recent releases on Spotify.

I can’t begin to talk about this movie soundtrack without applauding the first film’s soundtrack. Most notably off the soundtrack is “I Like Me Better When I’m With You” by Lauv, which became a hit after the first film was released. The whole movie has a sort of hopeless romantic feel, though many feel it lays on the cheese.

The music matches this young love feel, employing an off-brand pop sound that is for sure still pop, but has a bit of something different to it. This is true for both soundtracks. For one thing, most artists on both albums are not household names, which I loved because it introduced me to some great new bands.

I am not going to talk about every single song off this feel good album for this feel good movie, but I will talk about my favorites and give a shameless plug for the release of the movie.

The second album opens with “I Can’t Believe” by Cyn, who also had a song on the first album.

It’s a total feel good opener, and one can practically see Lara Jean and Peter Kavinsky in their adorable albeit awkward interactions. With its catchy and upbeat sound, it is a great way to start off.

Following this is “Age of Consent” by Cayetana, which felt to me reminiscent of the first movie’s use of the iconic song “Everybody Wants to Rule the World” by Tears For Fears. It has a wonderful ‘80s feel that makes you want to dance.

Illenium also has a song on the album titled, “Crashing” ft. Bahari. For some of you House/EDM fans, Illenium has produced some popular songs like “Good Things Fall Apart” with Jon Bellion. This song has more of a pop feel than Illenium’s usual sound, but it still has that House sort of base drop in there.

I also have to give a shout out to Sofi Tukker for her song on this album. “Purple Hat” is nothing short of Tukker’s odd yet satisfying sound. It is perhaps the most different song on the album, and I am going to make the following prediction about where in the film it is going to be used: you know those typical scenes of high school parties in movies? It is going to be used there. There is simply no doubt in my mind (listen to it and you will know exactly what I am saying).

My final favorite is “Better by Myself ” by Hey Violet. It is one of those songs that makes you start to tap your feet involuntarily. It is also such a great breakup anthem, if you are in need of that during this incoming Valentine’s Day. In conclusion, if you are looking for an album of feel good songs that makes you feel like you yourself could have your very own Peter Kavinksy or Lara Jean, then look no further.

THE MIRROR |Week of February 12, 2019

Coffee Break

Page 12

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

Quick Gifts For Your Cutie This Valentine’s Day The Coffee Break Team decided release an affordable, last-minute list of great gifts to purchase for your friends and loved ones. The Team understands the struggle that is college and we hope this list is helpful: • Red Roses-the most cliche but classic way to please anyone.

• Book of coupons for free hugs • Dinner and a card • Socks with your loved ones face on them • Gift cards-the most underrated gift • The cheapest bottle of wine you can find (the cheaper the better) • A replica of the set “The Fantastic Mr. Fox”

CreativeCommons/PublicDominion

Breaking News: Turkey Takes Over Stag Bus Danielle Sondegroth Contributing Writing

For the past month, an unusual commuter has emerged. One turkey has been trying to ride the stag bus. Unfortunately, he hasn’t been successful thus far and has only achieved the satisfaction of scaring students away from the bus doors.

Every single day, without fail, the same turkey walks from the middle of the circle to the bus-stop in hopes of one day being able to ride the bus with all of the other students. Every hour, he emerges, seemingly out of nowhere, and begins to stalk the bus, sometimes even walking in front of it as the bus is driving away or running beside or after it in an effort to catch up. This isn’t limited to him walking around the bus. According to our reporters, the turkey has even tried to hop or fly up the stairs but has been unsuccessful in his efforts so far.

Nobody knows why the turkey wants to ride the bus each day. Students that would normally have no problem climbing up the bus stairs and riding into town have been wary of the one lone turkey who only wants a chance to be a fellow Stag.

The drivers have done everything they could to drive off this strange bird, including rapidly opening and shutting the doors to scare him or honking at him aggressively.

The turkey has simply responded by standing or laying down right in front of the bus as it’s about to pull out of the station and gobbling and croaking loudly in answer. There is no telling whether or not the turkey will ever be allowed to ride the bus.

Creative Commons/Flikr

Sports

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

Page 13

THE MIRROR | Week of February 12, 2020

This Week in Sports: What You Missed

In Case You Missed It: Thursday, February 6th -Women's Basketball won against Niagara, 77-65 Friday, February 7th -Men's Basketball lost to Siena, 65-49 Saturday, February 8th -Women's Lacrosse lost to Holy Cross,

Photo Contributed by Sports Information Desk

The Major League Lacrosse's newest franchise, the Connecticut Hammerheads, will call Conway Field at Rafferty Stadium on Fairfield University's campus their home field. The last Major League Lacrosse team to play in Connecticut was the Bridgeport Barrage from 2001-2003, however they relocated to Philadelphia, Penn.

Just one Major League Lacrosse game has ever been played at Rafferty Stadium. This was when the Denver Outlaws and the New York Lizards faced off for the 2016 MLL semifinals.

The Hammerheads are slated to host five home games for the 2020 season, and the season opener is scheduled to be on Saturday, May 30.

10-8 -Men's Tennis won against UConn, 6-1 Sunday, February 9th -Men's Basketball lost to Iona, 78-54

Upcoming This Week: Wednesday, February 12th -Women's Lacrosse at UConn,

Photo Contributed by Sports Information Desk

Sophomore infielder Justin Guerrera recieved All-MAAC recognition following a stellar 2019 season with the Stags.

The Fairfield University baseball team have been picked second in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Preseason Poll, voted by the leagues 11 head coaches. Three of these coaches voted the Stags as their first-place pick, and Fairfield landed one place behind Quinnipiac University, who were crowned the MAAC Champions during the spring of 2019.

In addition, Fairfield's roster is made up of two honorees of All-MAAC recognition, namely senior outfielder Dan Ryan and sophomore infielder Justin Guerrera.

Last season, the Stags made it to the MAAC Championship series after winning a record-breaking 35 games. Ultimately, they lost to Quinnipiac, however their remarkable season leads fans to wonder what they have in store for this spring.

The Stags are scheduled to start the 2020 season in Greensboro, NC against the University of North Carolina at Greensboro on Friday, Feb. 21 at 2:00 p.m..

3:00 p.m.

-Men's and Women's Swim & Dive, 2020 MAAC Championships Day 1 6:00 p.m.

Friday, February 21st -Softball vs Purdue, 12:00 p.m.

-Baseball at UNC, 2:00 p.m.

In this week's issue...

- Men's Basketball Bashed by Iona Gaels (Pg. 14)

- Women's Basketball Knocks Off Niagara (Pg. 15)

- Holy Cross Lax Heats Up at Stags' Home-Opener (Pg.15)

- Appreciation for Fairfield Cheer Shouldn't be Sidelined (Pg. 16)

Sports

Page 14

THE MIRROR | Week of February 12, 2020

Men's Basketball Bashed by Iona Gaels

Photo Courtesy of Sports Information Desk

Graduate student Vincent Eze amassed 14 points during Sunday's contest against Iona College, trailing two points behind junior guard Taj Benning who led the Stags with 16 points.

By Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor The Fairfield University men’s basketball team fell to fellow Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference team Iona College on Sunday, Feb. 9 by a score of 78-54. This weekend’s game would be the final one played at Webster Bank Arena, looking ahead to the team’s final four home games which are all scheduled to be under the roof of Alumni Hall. Fairfield’s overall record is now 9-14, while their conference record worsened to 5-7. Iona’s overall record currently sits at 7-12, and their conference record now matches that of Fairfield’s at 5-7.

Going into the contest against Iona, Fairfield was in the MAAC first for overall scoring defense, allowing only 63.3 points per game, and also the top team in the conference for scoring defense in MAAC games, yielding 62.2 points per game. Since, they have dropped overall to 64.0 points per game overall, and 69.9 points per game in MAAC games.

Junior Taj Benning led his team in scoring with 16 points, while graduate student Vincent Eze contributed 14. Eze also set the tempo for his team in rebounds, with seven to the game.

Less than 30 seconds into the game, Eze put two points up for Fairfield. Then, Landon Taliaferro ‘20 snatched the rebound off of a missed shot by Iona, and sunk a three-pointer. The five-point lead

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

Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor

Lexi Thimble Editor-in-Chief

Should students go to theFUSA Presidential Debate on February 18th? Why?

Roses or Chocolates?

Sure, I think as students it's probKatherine Klima ably good to see what the people Executive Editor we're electing to be in office believe in.

Yes. It is good for students to stay

Julia Monteleone actively involved in the decisions Managing Editor that are being made on campus.

Your 2019-2020 4x5 Columnists:

Julia Lanzillotta, Lexi Thimble, Katherine Klima and Julia Monteleone Mookie Betts is officially a Los Angeles Dodger... thoughts?

If you could study abroad anywhere in the world, where would it be?

Who is your (early) Stanley Cup winner prediction?

As a Yankee fan, I think it's great!

I love seeing players move from franchise to franchise, and I think talk of this happening has gone on for far too long. It's about time something happened.

PARIS! Get with it, Fairfield.

In a fantasy, the New York Rangers, but realistically, I can see the Washington Capitals getting far based on how they're doing as of right now.

Both? Both. Both is good.

As a very uninformed Sox fan, I don't have an opinion but I also feel betrayed at the same time?

Don't know how I managed that one.

I studied in London and I literally haven't shut up about it since spring 2018 so I'd go back in a heartbeat. If I had to go somewhere else though I'd love more time in Ireland or even Austria.

Bs all the way babyyyy!!!!! Don't even know if they have a shot but I believe in them!!!!

Both, man!!!

Whomst?

I studied in Galway, Ireland last year and I would kill to do that again. But if I could choose another place, Scotland. I want to hang with my main girl, Nessie.

I don't know anything sports so...if New York is in the running, them?

If someone got me roses I would surely burst into tears.

Lanz stop posing questions I know nothing about!

I agree with Lanz!! I would love to spend a semester in France.

I am always going to say the Rangers but that is more or less a pipe dream.

It's our responsibility as students Roses *hint, hint* on this campus to have a say in decisions that will ultimately impact us. We should be informed before cast our vote.

Yes definitely, you should decide who you want to see leading you for the next year. Besides, you have no right to complain if you know nothing about the candidates, so go get informed!

would be the largest lead that Fairfield would have all game. Iona caught up quickly, and with three minutes and twenty seconds on the board, Tajuan Agee tied the score at five, which marked the beginning of a momentum that Iona would ride on the entire game. A foul by Niksa Nikolic with 43 seconds left in the first warranted two free throws by Chris Maidoh ‘23, who took advantage of the opportunity and netted both. Maidoh’s scoring efforts would be the last of the period, and after the first half, Iona only held a seven point advantage over the Stags, keeping them at an unsafe distance. Halftime commenced with the score in Iona’s favor, 38-31.

During the beginning of the second half, the Stags were able to keep Iona’s edge within reason, managing their shortcomings to be within a ten-point negative for about 12 minutes. The slack to be made up was doable for Fairfield until Iona went on a 17-3 run over seven minutes, increasing Iona’s lead to 18 points. Iona’s scored 12 points off of Fairfield’s turnovers in the second half, and is indicative of the home-team’s struggle.

Fairfield will have the home-court advantage for four of their next six games, but before the fourgame homestand they must first take on Marist College (6-15, 5-7 MAAC) and St. Peter’s University (11-11, 8-5 MAAC) at their respective facilities. The Stags are currently in ninth place of the 11 teams in the conference. The next game is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 14 at 7:00 p.m. in Poughkeepsie, NY against the Marist Red Foxes.

Sports

THE MIRROR | Week of February 12, 2020

Page 15

Women's Basketball Knocks Off Niagara

By Haley Norton Contributing Writer The Fairfield University women’s basketball team (8-2) played Niagara University (5-7) on Thursday, Feb. 6 at Niagara, and it was another great win for the Stags. Fairfield remains the third seed in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, while Niagara is the seventh. This is Fairfield’s first time playing Niagara during the 2019-2020 campaign, and both teams have just come off of playing Marist College, the second seed in the MAAC. While Fairfield was still high off of their 52-48 win against Marist, Niagara had just lost to the Red Foxes, 94-67. The Stags were running this game since it began, and they won with a final score of 77-65.

Starters included Sam Kramer ‘20, Katie Armstrong ‘20, Callie Cavanaugh ‘21, Lou Lopez-Senechal ‘22 and Rachel Hakes ‘22. These are Coach Frager’s typical starters, and we very rarely see the premier lineup change. Niagara won the tip-off but the game stopped after just two seconds to deal with a shot clock issue. When it started back up again, Niagara quickly scored and immediately started pressing. Cavanaugh got things going for the Stags and put 2 points on the board. Fairfield has been playing a few different defenses, changing between zone defense when they score and man-to-man when they miss. Kramer had a great steal, the first of three for Fairfield during the game. Armstrong hit her first three pointer; she later his three more and went 100% for three-pointers. She eventually totaled 24 points for the Stags, leading the team for the night. Lopez-Senechal also hit a three-pointer right after Armstrong; she later hit four more. Lopez-Senechal is in the top 15 shooters in the MAAC. Kendra Landy, graduate student, came into the game and was immediately hit with a lot of pressure by Niagara while bringing the ball up the court. Lopez-Senechal had a killer block down low, her only one of the game, Armstrong was the only other player with a block. The first quarter ended with a score of 25-14, with Fairfield in the lead.

Cavanaugh again was the first to score for the Stags. She ended up totaling 10 points this game. A charge was called on Niagara after a player elbowed Lopez-Senechal. On two back-to-back occasions, Fairfield couldn’t complete a pass. Niagara ended up totaling seven steals throughout the game. Hakes hit a jumper with only one second left on the shot clock. At this point in the game, Fairfield was shooting around 60%. Landy had a fantastic save to keep the ball in play- she toed the line before she passed to Kramer, who kicked it out to LopezSenechal. Landy attempted another three-pointer, missed, but Armstrong was right there with the rebound. Armstrong then took the ball to the basket for another two points, once again with, only one second left on the shot clock. Fairfield ended the game with a whopping 36 rebounds, while Niagara only had 24. Eden Nibbelink ’21 saw the court and hit a three-pointer right off the bat. Halftime commenced with Fairfield ahead, 42-22.

Niagara came out hot this quarter. They evidently had a new energy to them and were able to rattle the Stags. This quarter is when they got most of those seven steals, and their shots finally started hitting. They ended up scoring 26 points this quarter alone, chipping away at that 20 point lead which Fairfield held over them. Fairfield tried to match the energy by pressing Niagara, but Niagara was tougher. At one point they had three players on Landy, and they were able to steal the ball and take it straight to the hoop. By the end of the third, Fairfield was still in the lead 55-48.

Photo Courtesy of Sports Information Desk

Lou Lopez-Senechal '22 racked up 23 points against Niagara, leading the Stags to victory.

The fourth quarter started off poorly for the Stags, as Niagara had yet another steal to kick things off. Without hesitation, the Stags started scoring again and their confidence level came back up. Lopez-Senechal and Armstrong were big players this quarter, staying strong with their three-pointers and free throws. Hakes and Kramer carried out a great breakaway play towards the end of the game. One of Kramer’s seven total assists put her past 250 career assists. The game came to a close with a final score of 77-65.

On Saturday, Feb. 8, the Stags’ two-game hot-streak was broken by the Canisius College Griffins (3-18, 2-10 MAAC) after a disappointing 70-63 loss decided late in the second quarter when the Griffins claimed a lead which would belong to them for the rest of the game. The Stags will take the court in West Long Branch, NJ against Monmouth University (6-16, 3-10 MAAC) on Thursday, Feb. 13.

Holy Cross Lax Heats Up at Stags' Home-Opener

By Julia Lanzillotta Sports Editor

24 respectively. Reynolds held down Fairfield’s defensive end and even dished out an assist, demonstrating her adaptability on the field. Her performance garnered her the title of the MAAC Defensive Player of the Week.

The narrow loss was not an ideal way to start the season, however the reigning back-to-back MAAC Champions show much promise for the future. They are slated to compete against the University of Connecticut Huskies in Storrs, Conn. on Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 3:00 p.m.. Looking ahead, the first conference game for the Stags is scheduled for Wednesday, March 25 at home against Quinnipiac University. Fairfield will face conference play with a reputation to uphold, as they finished off an undefeated run during the 2019 season for the MAAC portion of the slate, which led them to the National Collegiate Athletic Association postseason tournament.

On Saturday, Feb. 8 the Fairfield University women’s lacrosse team hosted the College of the Holy Cross on Conway Field at Rafferty Stadium to kick off the 2020 campaign. Unfortunately, the home-opener was disappointing for Fairfield fans when the Stags were unable to ward off the Crusaders’ efforts, and they fell short with a final score of 10-8.

In the 2020 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Preseason Coach’s Poll, the Stags procured some major recognition by the league’s nine head coaches. They earned two first-place votes, and 70 total points, tying them with Monmouth University for the top spot. Nods were given by the conference to two Stags, specifically Kelly Horning ‘21 and co-captain Maggie Reynolds ‘21, when they were named to the Preseason All-MAAC Team.

Early in the first half, Holy Cross established their strong presence with immense pressure on Fairfield. They beat Fairfield to the scoreboard, when Kara McDuffee and Jolie Creo registered two consecutive goals over a span of 19 seconds. Graduate student Monika Sivilli and Jillian Winwood ‘21 answered back for Fairfield when each of them found the back of the net shortly after to match the competition with two points. Holy Cross repeated that same echoed scoring pattern and again Sivilli and Winwood jumped in to squash the two-goal deficit. Once more, the Crusaders tried to have the last say but the home team answered back, and was able to keep the score knotted at five by the end of the period.

Although during the first thirty minutes Fairfield was able to keep up with Holy Cross’ quick pace, they quickly fell behind in the latter half.

McDuffee struck gold again on a free position shot drawn from a foul on Maggie Fort ‘23 with 28 minutes and 35 seconds left of regulation time.

For the last time, Fairfield kept the deficit within one when Diana DeVita ‘21 completed a pass from Winwood and pocketed her first goal of the afternoon.

From that point on, they lost control and Holy Cross surged on a 4-1 run, leaving Fairfield in the dust.

Despite the neck-and-neck nature of the competition, all five leads established throughout the match were credited to the Crusaders. Fairfield’s obstacles stemmed from their failure to demonstrate the upper hand.

Credit from the eight points accumulated by Fairfield went to five different Stags. Sivilli, Winwood and DeVita put up two points a-piece while Madeline Dent ‘22 and Meaghan Graham ‘20 were credited for one each.

Although this weekend did not result in an outcome that Fairfield hoped for, Photo Courtesy of Sports Information Desk they led the MAAC in scoring defense, caused turnovers and ground balls with 10, 16 and Maggie Reynolds '21 was tabbed Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Week.

@MirrorSports Fairfield Mirror Sports

Week of February 12, 2020

fairfieldmirror.com

SPORTS 16

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

Appreciation for Fairfield Cheer Shouldn't be Sidelined

Photo Contributed by head coach Taylor Wilkes

The Fairfield University cheerleading team appear as a team to perform at basketball games, university programs, independent competitions and community events.

By Sheila McCombs Chief Copy Editor Watching a Fairfield University cheerleading practice is not for the faint of heart.

There are girls flying through the air (and sometimes falling), and doing other crazy feats of athleticism. But it is also pretty magical. When spectators are sitting watching the halftime show at a basketball game, it is easy to forget about how much hard work goes into choreographing and executing the routine.

To the layperson, cheer doesn’t seem to be that much different from any other team on campus. They spend about 12 to 15 hours a week doing things related to cheer, whether that be at practice, at games or doing something within the community. This can vary from week to week, depending on the amount of games that they have to perform at, or if they have a competition to prepare for. The team cheers at every home basketball game, as well as a few select away games throughout the season. This is what takes up the majority of their time, and is also what they are most known for around campus. They cheer on the sidelines and do a halftime performance each game. The team also cheers at Red Sea Madness, the basketball season’s annual pep rally which precedes each season-opener.

Now, the cheer team is not only there for basketball games to stand on the sidelines and perform at halftime. While that is a large part of what they do, they also have a whole different aspect of commitment within their program. This would be participation in competitions.

“What we do at competitions is a lot more intense. We don’t have anyone there we are specifically cheering for… it’s a much more competitive environment,” said co-captain Julia Abbatello ‘21.

The team travels across the East Coast to compete against other collegiate teams.

This shift to being a competitive team has been a change implemented over the last few years, as the program took a break from competing for a few years. Now, the team is shifting into a new period of working toward growing their competitive repertoire. This involves even more practice and work, and adds another layer to what the team already does.

Head Coach Taylor Wilkes said, “What you see at games is not it...These girls are working tirelessly to develop their skills and perform at college level competitions.” The routine that they put forward in competitions is a longer version of the performances that they give at the basketball games.

“We only have two and a half minutes to leave everything we have on the mat,” said Meghan Sweeney ‘23.

The program is continuing to work to compete against a broader range of teams and move into more elite competitions. Wilkes said, “Their goal is to compete at the National Collegiate Athletic Association next year, which is the pinnacle of college cheerleading.”

When asked about what made Fairfield Cheer so special, both the coach and the team gave a very similar answer: the amount of teamwork that cheerleading requires.

“One of the hardest parts [of cheer] is the fact that it is such a team sport. Everyone has to be 100 percent in for every practice, every game and every run through or else it wont

work,” said Taylor Lewis ‘22.

The team is divided into stunt groups, who work as one cohesive unit in order to pull off the feats the girls show at both competitions and at When the girls get put makes it so all of the to the routine.

“We don’t pull from, and it to form within stunt Everyone has an important is one of the things that sets it something that adds to the amount needed.

The girls also talked about taken away from cheerleading. “I as a woman to be part of a team like so loved and supported when I am Marytherese Ryan ‘22. They talked and cohesion that the team has echoed by their coach. “This team comadrie and everyone is always It warms my heart,” said Wilkes.

This program is unique compared to the other teams on campus based on the wide array of things that they do from games to competitions. Cheer is just as athletically intense and competitive as the other sport teams at Fairfield, just in its own way.

together all season of gymnastics that basketball games. into stunt groups, it girls become essential have a huge bench to takes months for synergy groups,” added Wilkes. role on the team and that apart from other sports, and of teamwork and cooperation the life lessons that they have think it is really empowering cheerleading. I always feel around all these girls,” said about the amount of support together, something that was in particular has so much rooting for everyone else…

Photo Contributed by head coach Taylor Wilkes

The team uses a culmination of gymnastics stunts and dance to create their routines.