Fairfield Mirror 10-10-12

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The Reflection of Fairfield

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By Laura O’Reilly Managing Editor

At the age of 2, Amanda McKean ’13 was diagnosed with leukemia. It was the day after Christmas. “My parents didn’t know what was wrong with me – I was having intense stomach aches and extremely high fevers,� she said. “After many tests, doctors determined that it was leukemia.�

After crushing leukemia at such an early age, McKean created Cancer Crusher, a nonprofit foundation in 2008. As a survivor, she wanted to raise awareness and funding for pediatric cancer patients and their families.

This Saturday, Oct. 13, Fairfield University students will throw on their cowboy hats and boots for a night of square dancing to support the fight against pediatric cancer. “Every time I go back [for checkups], I observe teenagers around my age who were missing out on applying to college, playing sports, going to prom ... it made me realize that this

age group is underrepresented when it comes to cancer,� McKean said. She believes that many people only think of children or the elderly as being affected by cancer, not the young adults.

According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, each year in the United States about 3,000 children and young adults are diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the type with which McKean was diagnosed.

At the age when most children are dressing up their dolls or playing in the backyard, McKean was losing all of her hair from chemotherapy treatments.

She was treated at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center

by Dr. Norma Wollner who McKean calls, “the most incredible woman I have ever met.�

Wollner helped create the pediatric cancer floor at the Center and has since retired.

McKean still stays in touch with the doctor who changed her life through the countless surgeries and spinal taps.

In high school, McKean launched the Cancer Crusher Foundation with numerous ini-

Contributed Photo

McKean (fourth from the left) and friends enjoyed a night of dancing at last year’s Cancer Crusher Hoedown. tiatives including organizational alliances, special programs and innovative fundraising events.

The foundation’s mission is, “to crush pediatric cancer by em-

powering our community to collectively conquer this devastating disease, afflicting children from infancy to 25 years.�

When it came time to look

at colleges, she chose Fairfield because of the “tremendous student involvement.�

DANCE | PAGE 2

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By Danica Ceballos News Editor

Cuscuz. Empadas. Mousse de CafĂŠ.

Though these dishes may sound completely foreign to some Fairfield students, they are part of an everyday diet for Brazilian chef Bruno Rios, who is coming to Fairfield to give students an opportunity to taste a bit of his culture.

This Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, Sodexo will be hosting a special program in the main Dining Hall called Global Chef. At the U-shaped servery, students will be able to try multiple South American items at different meal times.

Wednesday evening will include a dessert sampling. Thursday evening will include both dinner and dessert dishes, and Friday will include lunch and dessert items. By offering a variety of meal times, the programmers hope that students can attend one of the meals to see what Global Chef has to offer.

Due to the success of Sodexo at Fairfield, the company hand-selected the University to host the program. “As a Sodexo

account, Fairfield University has certain goals that it actually meets and surpasses,â€? explained Matt Olschan, retail marketing manager of Fairfield Dining Services. “Therefore, we stand out to get ‘x’ amount of programming ‌ kind of like a sample school. We

showcase things often.�

Through this program, chefs travel around the world to provide authentic food from their country to different schools and organizations. Because the foods presented are standard for the home country of the chef, host

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schools must order ingredients outside of their regimented routine to allow the chefs to prepare their dishes the way they would at home. “[Rios] customizes his own menu to what he feels represents his profile best, so not only is he making

stuff he is familiar with, I think he is making stuff he feels best represents him as a chef,� said Olschan. Rios is currently working his way down the east coast through Global Chef, beginning at schools in Massachusetts and eventually ending in Florida While this program is different than most of the promotions that Sodexo offers, it is part of a larger calendar of events that Fairfield’s Sodexo branch provides for students. For example, last month showcased Indian food and a Hispanic cultural celebration for Hispanic heritage month. In the upcoming weeks, students will notice that Sodexo is presenting fall promotions, including a Halloween theme.

Incorporating multi-cultural food is part of the larger goal of Fairfield to create a more diverse campus. Olschan commented, “I think as a partnership with Sodexo and Fairfield what this program brings to the table is just something that goes to show that all students are represented.�

Upperclassmen had mixed reviews because they do not necessarily go to Barone on a

GLOBAL CHEF | PAGE 2

The Fairfield Mirror

News

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

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By Crystal Rodriguez Staff Writer

Can $1,500 dollars change the world?

According to David Downie, director of environmental studies and associate politics professor, the answer is no. However, he says, “Ideas do.”

Downie is referring to the announcement of three $1500 grants being offered to students by the Campus Sustainability Committee.

The grants for the 2012-2013 academic year will be awarded to Fairfield students that submit proposals, and that “have a positive impact on environmental and sustainability issues affecting the Fairfield University campus,” wrote Jen Klug, associate professor of biology, in an email sent to students mid-September.

The grants serve as “seed money for students to initiate and carry out good ideas,” said Downie. Projects like the campus garden and the beehive have flourished with seed money from the biology department. The committee hopes that this will be the case for these new projects.

While students are given the opportunity to make a difference, will they take advantage of

the opportunity?

Some may argue, our campus culture is indifferent to the environment or even cynical about making any real change. Junior Jesus Nuñez, a member of Leaders for Environmental Action at Fairfield and a Fairfield garden intern, has a strong opinion about the culture here.

“Recycling is awful. We have a bad rate for recycling. There are also really bad amounts of food waste,” said Nuñez. Although in Barone one can hear complaints about the terrible food, students still insist on bringing overloaded plates to their table. This cultural habit is what needs to change, according to Nuñez.

Junior Arturo Jaras-Watts, a student representative on the committee, thinks that, “behaviors can move in a more sustainable direc-

tion.” This would include cutting down on the food waste, opting for reusable water bottles and turning off the lights.

Engaging in sustainability is more than simply being passionate about the environment. Even if students are not concerned with climate change, there are economic, ethical and political aspects to sustainability; thus, making the grants an interdisciplinary project for the entire school.

Because sustainability is a diverse issue with a variety of implica-

Wednesday Dessert: Pizza de Banana e Mussarela (Pizza with Banana, Mozzarella, Condensed Milk, & Cinnamon) Contributed Photo by Matt Olschan

Global Chef Bruno Rios will be preparing Brazilian food in Barone cafeteria.

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daily basis. “Since I’m a senior, I don’t have a meal plan, but if I did, I would go because I think it’s exciting that they have cultural food like that,” said Gabi Tozzi, ’13.

Junor Reece Breault disagreed, saying, “I don’t really go

ing recycling, and turning off the lights will pay for itself in the course of a year,” said Downie.

For James Fitzpatrick, he was not only motivated fiscally to get involved with the committee but personally. Fitzpatrick has been at Fairfield University since 1966 and through out the years he has seen environmental movements begin with inspiring professors and enthusiastic students. He hopes he can continue their passion for years to come.

With financial and administrative support, a student impact is possible. And the committee members believe in the strong possibility of local change. “I hope locally Fairfield University becomes known as an environmental powerhouse. Fairfield University is in a geographic position to be a really environmental school,” said Nuñez.

Whatever comes of these grants students can remember, “Many of the best ideas start small,” said Downie.

The Grant submissions must be submitted to the Campus Sustainability Committee, Box A in the Barone Campus Center by Oct. 15.

Finalist will be announced Oct. 30.

Crystal Rodriguez/The Mirror

Some choices include...

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

tions, the committee hopes to attract a variety of students to propose their ideas. “This isn’t just for people who are a part of LEAF. I hope this opportunity speaks to students in every corner of campus, connecting sustainability to their future vocation,” said Watts.

But even with the financial support and student initiative, can an impact be made without administrative support? Administration receives many ideas at a time and has to prioritize the demands of the students. However, so far the committee feels administration has been receptive to sustainability issues.

One of the reasons for this receptiveness is the win-win situation created by sustainable initiatives. Changes toward sustainability save resources and money.

“Overtime these ideas will pay for themselves. Increas-

Page 2

to Barone so it doesn’t really make a difference to me.”

Most students, though, are excited about Rios coming to Fairfield. “I definitely would look forward to it, because it’s a chef from a different country. I think it would be interesting to get a taste of how he prepares their food,” commented Joseph Patalano ’15.

The Mirror

Thursday Dinner: Empada (Small Pie) Regular & Vegetarian

Friday Lunch: Pão de Queijo (Cheese Bread) Dessert: Mousse de Café (Coffee Mousse)

Martin O’Sullivan, Editor-in-Chief Loan Le, Executive Editor Laura O’Reilly, Managing Editor

Incorporated 1977

Affiliated with: ASSOCIATED COLLEGIATE PRESS

Business Department

Email: advertising@fairfieldmirror.com Sarah Marcoux, CFO Brian Cleary, CFO Margaret Smith, Assistant CFO

%BODF UP DSVTI DBODFS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 She was able to create a Cancer Crush club on campus. Today, the club has over 100 members and continues to grow.

Last year, the first annual Cancer Crusher Hoedown raised over $5,000 for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, specifically for their work with pediatric cancer. Over 130 people attended to learn how to square dance.

Pat Cannon, the event’s square dance caller, walked the group through every step last year. McKean said, “I didn’t know the first thing about square dancing and by the end of the night she had everyone on the dance floor ‘do-si-do’-ing!”

Cannon will be calling the square dance again this Saturday night in the Oak Room from 8-10 pm.

The club hopes to surpass its fundraising efforts from last year.

Tickets go on sale this Tuesday at the Info Desk, but will also be available for purchase at the door. All tickets are $10. This is

Editors

Danica Ceballos, News Elizabeth Koubek, Opinion Jennifer Calhoun, Sports Thomas Shea, Assistant Sports Nicholas DiFazio, Photography Luigi DiMeglio, Chief Copy Editor

The Vine

Kelsey Guerin, Editor Olivia Snoddy, Assistant Editor

Contact Information Mail Fairfield University 1073 North Benson Road, Box AA, Fairfield, CT 06824

Email info@fairfieldmirror.com

an FYE event.

This year the money raised will benefit Memorial SloanKettering Cancer Center, specifically for their pediatric cancer

“I observe teenagers around my age who were missing out. ... It made me realize that this age group is underrepresented when it comes to cancer.”

- Amanda McKean ‘13 patients.

If interested in joining the Cancer Crusher Club, there is a meeting Oct. 10 in Bannow room 131 at 7:30 pm. Meetings are held every other Wednesday.

Cartoonist Lisa Tkach

Online

Brian Arpie, Web Manager

Adviser

Dr. Tommy Xie

The Mirror strives to report accurately in all its stories.

If you encounter any errors, please contact Editor-in-Chief Martin O’Sullivan

News

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

Page 3

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By Emma DiGiovine Assistant News Editor

Looking for a designer dress to wear out to a special event this weekend that’s under 100 dollars? Ladies, look no further than Renttherunway.com, the premier digital designer dress rental destination where dresses can be rented for less than half of their original price.

Rent the Runway is a membership-based website that allows you to simply sign in, browse for the type of dress that you are looking for and have it shipped to you free of charge. The dresses range from formal to casual, and even include wedding dresses and accessories to bring your designer outfit together.

Founded in November of 2009 by two Harvard Business School graduates, the site now offers over 25,000 dresses from over 165 designer brands, such as Vera Wang, Nicole Miller, and Calvin Klein.

And now affiliated with Rent the Runway is Fairfield University.

Offering on campus internships, this is the first year that Fairfield is promoting the company and giving students opportunities to work with Rent the Runway. Currently, five girls work for the company and are exceedingly excited about the work that they have done so far.

“I work in the public rela-

By Zack Albert Contributing Writer

Contributed Photos

Expectations were high going into the first Presidential Debate on domestic policy on October 3rd. Supporters of Barack Obama hoped that the debate would help the President open an even greater lead over challenger Mitt Rom-

tions department. It’s really cool to work in fashion and still have the business side of it. What we learn is stuff that we can take with us to further any career,” said Maggie Hickey ‘15.

Hickey has been using the site herself since 2010. When she saw the opportunity to work with the company, she was excited to see what was in store. Hickey

“With Renttherunway.com, it’s half the price. The dresses come in two days and you can pick your size and everything.”

- Maggie Hickey ’15 loves Rent the Runway and thinks that it is something that every college girl should know about.

“It’s really good because I’m in college and I don’t always have the money to buy really expensive dresses all the time,” said Hickey.

“With Renttherunway.com, it’s half the price. The dresses come in two days and you can pick your size and everything,” Rent The Runway also offers a five-dollar insurance fee, just in case something is spilt on the

ney, while New Jersey Governor Chris Christie predicted that the forum would result in the race being “turned upside down” in Romney’s favor.

After the debate, Brendan Spearing ’14 seemed to agree with Governor Christie. He said, “I think Romney won the debate, but I think that’s because Barack got flustered and thrown off his game when Romney said that he wasn’t going to change the tax rate for high income individuals.

That’s a very different stance from what he’s said in the past.”

Regardless of the reason, the general consensus is that Mitt Romney bested the President. According to a CNN/ORC International poll taken following the debate, 67 percent of debate watchers thought that Romney won the debate, while only 25 percent said Obama performed best.

CNN polling director Keating Holland noted, “No presidential candidate has topped 60 percent in that question since it was first asked in 1984.”

dress or rip it by accident. Shipping is free, and for return the dress is simply slipped into an envelope that they provide.

Sophomore Melissa Muroski is another representative for the company. She has been sending out messages to alert students about the company and, so far, has had numerous positive responses. The representatives had their first trunk show on Tuesday before the President’s Ball on Sept. 28.

The show was held in the mezzanine, where 30 dresses were available for Fairfield girls to try on and rent. Some dresses, originally priced at $2,000, were for rent at prices as low as $30.

The girls were able to secure fifteen rentals. “I thought it was fun to get all girls of different grades up in the mezzanine,” said Muroski. “It was like a girls’ night out in the middle of the day.”

Some brands available at the trunk show included Nicole Miller, Tibi, Halsten Heritage, Pencey, Calvin Klein, and Herve Leger. Free giveaways were also available and music resonated throughout the BCC as everyone tried on and picked out their designer dresses.

The Rent the Runway interns are looking to promote the company as best they can and strongly encourage students to join their team to work on helping students utilize the site here on campus.

Contributed Photo

Representatives, Hickey and Muroski, don their rented dresses.

They have established a Facebook group called “Rent the Runway at Fairfield University” and also have a twitter named “RTR Fairfield.”

Interns also get college credit working for Rent the Runway, so there are personal as well as academic benefits involved as well.

Rent the Runway’s motto is

“No commitments, no regrets,” and the girls say that this is exactly what the company promises its renters.

“I think it’s a good motto for the college girl,” said Hickey. “It really is a great deal too.”

The company’s services can be accessed at Renttherunway. com.

This Week’s Edition: #Z UIF /VNCFST

Another telling statistic is the fact that 35 percent of those polled said the debate made them more likely to vote for Mitt Romney, compared to only 18 percent who said they were more likely to reelect Barack Obama as a result of his debate performance.

However, while the CNN poll seems to indicate growing support for Mitt Romney, it is important to remember that the numbers only reflect the opinion of those who watched the debate, a sample size of approximately 67.2 million viewers.

Howie Rosas ’14 wonders if this pool of viewers reflects a more national opinion of the presidential candidates.

He said, “The polls clearly show that Mitt Romney won the debate, but it will be interesting to see if his popularity increases among those who didn’t see the debate. If it has, then that’s a very good sign for his campaign.”

So, did Romney’s debate performance translate into more general support for his candidacy?

According to Gallup Daily tracking, in the week prior to the debate Obama led Romney by between 4 and 6 percentage points in terms of registered voters who would vote for him if the election were held today. Following the debate, Obama’s lead was n a r-

rowed to only 3 percentage points, with the President leading 49 percent to Romney’s 46 percent.

These numbers seem to bode well for Mitt Romney, but many wonder if he will continue to increase his popularity with voters. John Lobo ’14 is unsure, but remarked, “If Romney can win the next two debates, or at least continue to perform well, then the race may be closer than most believed. It will all come down to the next few weeks, though. A lot can still happen before election day.”

6QDPNJOH %FCBUFT Oct. 11th at 9 p.m.

VP Debate on Foreign and Domestic Policy

Oct. 16th at 9 p.m.

Presidential Debate, Town Meeting Format

Oct. 22nd at 9 p.m.

Presidential Debate on Foreign Policy

News

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

$SJNF #FBU "SDIJWF 'BMM Tuesday, 9/6

to the discovery of narcotics.

2:35 a.m. - Four students were discovered near the baseball field in an area from which an odor of Marijuana was emanating. One student, who had an outstanding warrant for an off-campus drug offense was arrested by Fairfield Police.

The non-student was arrested on the following charges: Alcohol possession as a minor, marijuana possession, possession of a controlled substance within 1,500 feet of a daycare and school, and failure to keep prescription pills in their proper container.

Wednesday, 9/7

10:56 p.m. - DPS officers observed an unregis3:27 p.m. - A parking complaint was made to DPS tered guest urinating on Jogues Hall. The guest’s after a student attempted to reserve himself a host was referred to the Dean of Student’s office. parking space outside 47 Mahan Road. The orange traffic cone he used was confiscated.

Wednesday, 11/2 Tuesday, 9/13

1:48 a.m. - Non-students said to be “surprise visiting,� a female student were asked to leave cam3:43 a.m. - An unwanted guest was given a crimi- pus. DPS soon discovered the unwanted guests nal trespass warning after he and a student at- to be in an argument with a student outside the tempted to enter a townhouse. The student was Barlow Road gate. FPD was called. referred to judicial.

Friday, 11/18 Saturday, 10/8 11:58 p.m. - Approximately 148 people were in 2:38 a.m. - Fairfield Police arrested a student for attendance at a Townhouse party at 11 block. suspected involvement in an off-campus hit- The party was broken up by an anonymous tip and-run incident. to DPS. Friday, 10/21

Saturday, 12/3

7:20 p.m. - A former student and two students 3:38 a.m. - Discharged fireworks in a corridor of were stopped by DPS outside 42 Bellermine Claver Hall led to the evacuation of the building.

Road for alcohol possession. The odor of mari- The student responsible was later identified. juana was apparent and further investigation led

Page 4

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Monday, Oct. 10 Come to the Levee for Karaoke night from 9 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Thursday, Oct. 11 Head over to the BCC Oak 5RRP WR KHDU )DLUÂżHOG University alumnus and author David Fitzpatrick speak about his 17-year battle with self-injury.

The event goes from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m., and also TXDOLÂżHV IRU )<( 0DJLV credits.

Sunday, Oct. 14 ([SHULHQFH 7KH 0HW /LYH LQ +' /Âś(OLVLU GÂś$PRUH VWDUULQJ $QQD 1HWUHENR DQG Matthew Polenzani at the Quick Center from 6 p.m.

XQWLO S P Tuesday, Oct. 16 Come to the Library MultiPHGLD URRP DW S P to hear from a panel of )DFXOW\ 3URIHVVRUV RQ Âł$ 'LVFRXUVH RQ WKH 1DWXUH RI Placeâ&#x20AC;?.

Did you know?

New drug found to slow the effects of Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Eli Lilly and Company announced an experimental drug therapy called solanezumab, which has shown to slow cognitive decline.

Walmart discontinues Kindle tablets and e-readers The countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest retailer is cutting the product in a move with increasing competition against Amazon.com

Young teenage activist gunned down by the Taliban Malala Yousafzai, a young girl living in Pakistan, spoke out about her passion to become a doctor. In addition, she promoted education, directly defying Taliban subjugation. The Taliban sought her out and shot her. Although she survived, she is now in critical condition.

Sandusky sentenced to 30 to 60 years in prison Jerry Sandusky, former Penn State coach, was finally brought to court and sent to jail.

Despite all of the evidence, Sandusky continued to plead innocent.

South Koreans obsessed with new app A new smartphone video game called Anipang is the greatest hit in South Korea.

Similar to Bejeweled, the new sensation is a competitive game that has become a national competition.

CORRECTIONS BOX In the caption of the photo for last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story on the Career Fair, the student was identified as Tony Ponte â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;13. His name is Tommy Ponte.

In last weekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;This Week in Stag Country,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Carly Beyarâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s name was mispelled as Carley Beyar.

See an error? email info@fairfieldmirror.com

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

Opinion

Online

Send your thoughts to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com.

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Page 5

OPINION | 5 Editor: (OL]DEHWK .RXEHN RSLQLRQ@fairfieldmirror.com

EDITORIAL Martin O'Sullivan |Editor-in-Chief Loan Le |Executive Editor Laura O'Reilly |Managing Editor

Remember your voice â&#x20AC;&#x153;The food in Barone sucks!â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The shuttle times are so inconvenient they might as well not have one.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I hate the fact that I got written up for a noise violation before quiet hours.â&#x20AC;?

These are statements students might have said, or talked about with a friend, or overheard anywhere on campus.

Complaining about whatever bothers you is your right as an American. In fact, for any institution to continue bettering itself, this should be encouraged. But complaining among friends can only do so much by itself.

At the beginning of the year, we all saw that the Stag closed at 7 p.m. After a heightened amount of criticism was brought to the attention of certain administrators and staff, the hours have now been moved up to 8 p.m., a more convenient choice for those of us who donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a free minute while the sun is up.

So how did this happen? Students went through the appropriate channels to voice their concerns. In this case, Jim Fitzpatrick, vice president of student affairs, listened.

Mr. Fitzpatrick was also the medium of change in a similar situation. Some students voiced their concerns over a certain planner carried in the oncampus bookstore that contained pro-anorexia slogans. As soon as he was alerted of these concerns by The Mirror, the planners were immediately pulled from the bookstore (for the full story, read â&#x20AC;&#x153;Planner pulled from campus bookstoreâ&#x20AC;? in our September 19 issue).

So what can we learn from these two situations? Since our school website is surprisingly navigable, it is no problem finding who is in charge of the source of your disdain. Pick up the phone and voice your complaints. Tell your friends to do the same. Write about it in an opinion article for The Mirror! With enough light shed on a problem, the school would be ignorant not to fix it. :PV TIPVME BMTP GFFM FRVBMMZ PCMJHBUFE UP WPJDF when you think the University is doing a good job. If you think the food in Barone is awesome on a given day, let the floor manager know. If a Public Safety officer gave you a ride to the Health Center, stop and talk to them next time you see them. Just as complaining to the right person can make something better, complimenting the right person can ensure a continuous great job.

Thumbs-Up / Thumbs-Down r 5IF :PVOH #VTJOFTT Leaders of Fairfield and the Mirror Meeting are both tonight! r 8F IBWF POMZ EBZT PG classes this week. r 8PNFOhT TPDDFS XPO over Canisius 3-1.

r 4XJNNJOH BOE EJWJOH lost to Boston College. r (BT QSJDFT BSF SJTJOH and up to $5.00 a gallon in some areas.

r 4BOEVTLZ XBT TFOtenced to 30-60 years in r Allergies and colds are prison, which is likely the running rampant. rest of his life. r 4BOEVTLZ EJEOhU HFU the longest sentence possible. r %S 3VGGJOJ UIJOLT The Mirror's headlines are silly.

Lisa Tkach/The Mirror

Have an opinion about the presidential elections? Let us know!

Have an opinion about something else ? Send us your thoughts to opinion@fairfieldmirror.com

Importance of the debate is debatable

By Jillian Delaney Contributing Writer

One of the most important parts of being an American is exercising our right to vote. The presidential debates are supposed to aid in informing voters on crucial issues. Key words: supposed to. â&#x20AC;&#x153;How helpful is this?â&#x20AC;? is a question I found myself wondering all throughout last Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s debate. As a first time voter Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very interested and invested in everything surrounding the current election. Since this is the first presidential election for a lot of students, one would think a debate that is aimed to present facts on the issues that matter would be a really useful tool in choosing a candidate. However, I watched the debate last week with a large group of students and I saw something very different.

As I sat among my peers I observed the audience and noticed that there were students who genuinely didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seem to care one way or another, and then there were the students who cheered and yelled almost every time their preferred

candidate spoke - no matter what he was saying - while booing the opposing candidate. This led me to the realization that a large majority of voters have already made up their mind and these debates essentially donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t â&#x20AC;&#x153;matterâ&#x20AC;?.

I say the debates donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter because Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not sure they offer any new information. Campaigning now is extraordinarily different than it was even four years ago. Social media such as Facebook and Twitter has come to the forefront of politics and enable users to receive information or updates multiple times a day. Many people my age get their news primarily from places like Twitter and other social news outlets, and I know that, personally, there seems to be information overload. There is always breaking news about the candidates and then the stream of tweets that follow it. By the time that something like a debate comes around it feels almost like Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard it all before, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s old news before itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even really talked about.

Another reason I say that these debates donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter is because it seems as though the cam-

paigning has been going on for an eternity. Maybe it is because I, personally, am very interested in politics and have been keeping myself up to date, but I feel like I know so much already. I know each oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s platform and goals. The main point being that there really is not one single statement either candidate could make to sway voters who have firmly held on to their beliefs and opinions. Each candidate has already made an impression on voters, whether it be positive or negative, because each one has been in the public eye an extraordinary amount. On the other hand, the vice presidential debate this coming Thursday could make a difference given that neither one has been publicized nearly as much as their running mates.

Based on what I observed by watching the debate on Oct. 3 with a politically diverse group of students, it did not seem to make much of an impact. In a society where young people comprise an influential pool of voters, I do not believe the debate had the intended result of swinging votes.

NOTABLE AND QUOTABLE: "Art isn't just for those who are marginalized.

Art makes people more humane and healthier."

Dr. Judith Primavera,

'BJSĂŞFME TVQQPSUT -(#52 DPNNVOJUZ through art show," on page 8.

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

Opinion

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

Page 6

M

y first political memory is with my grandfather and late grandmother, who both volunteered for a political party in town every election.

8FhSF TJUUJOH JO B DPOEP down the street from an elementary school where people are voting. Someone has just returned from the school with the partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s books, so we know who has voted, and who we have to call to SFNJOE UIFN UP WPUF (SBOEQB BOE (SBOENB HP UP DIFDL UIF OBNFT PGG BOE (SBOEQB BTLT NF if I would like to make a call.

To whom?

My parents, of course.

So while still in elementary school I made my first political call. I left a message on our home answering machine saying that if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want the other guy to win, you better get down to North Mianus School before 9 p.m. tonight.

This column is like that call.

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m telling you if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want that other guy (or girl) to win, you should strongly consider voting this November. :PV IBWF UIF QPXFS UP NBLF a change.

Forty-six million people between the ages of 18 and 29 years old are eligible to vote, according to The Center for Information & 3FTFBSDI PO $JWJD -FBSOJOH BOE Engagement at Tufts University.

In contrast, only 39 million seniors - weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not talking about the Class of 2013 here - are eligible to vote.

That means that you are part of a massive voting block, which means that candidates have to listen to you. They want your vote.

At this point you may be thinking this: Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m only a college student. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a house. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a car. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a real job. I probably donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have kids.

Why should I vote? %P ZPV IBWF B TUVEFOU MPBO or receive federal federal aid?

Chances are you do. Seventy percent of Fairfield students receive some type of financial aid,

according to the Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s admission website.

Financial aid is a major issue this election season, and candidates have differing opinions.

President Obama says that not everybody has parents who can pay their tuition or loan them money. He promotes on his website a program that caps monthly federal student loan repayment at 10% of monthly discretionary income.

3PNOFZ PO UIF PUIFS IBOE said students should not expect the government to forgive their student loan debt. But he promises to create new jobs and lower income taxes so that students can pay back the loans they take out.

Both candidates make valid points. Where do you stand?

Let the candidates know.

Vote this November.

If you are interested in voting, here are the details: In Connecticut, your application for voting must be postmarked or received by a voter SFHJTUSBUJPO BHFODZ CZ UIF UI

In response to Ms. Kaitlin McEwanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opinion BSUJDMF i5IF (SFBUFTU %FQSFTTJPO PG "MM 5JNF from the Oct. 3 issue:

By ByJay JayPolansky Polansky Contributing Contributingwriter Writer

day before an election.

Alternatively, you can register in person by the 7th day before an election.

College students can vote in their college town if they consider it to be their primary home, according to the Fair Elections Legal Network. So if you live in Fairfield and you consider yourself a â&#x20AC;&#x153;bona-fideâ&#x20AC;? resident, you are eligible to vote in Connecticut.

Anyone who wishes to to SFHJTUFS UP WPUF OFFET BO *% BOE some official document that says you live in Connecticut.

Obviously if you register in Connecticut, you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t vote back home as well. But you can vote back home through an absentee ballot. Contact your local registrar for details.

Should you decide to vote for this November, remember the issues. Most politicians will start playing dirty as the election

nears, launching attack ads and leaking negative stories to the press.

When you hear these news reports or see these commercials, remember you are not voting on who has the best lifestyle, or the CFTU IBJS :PV BSF WPUJOH GPS XIP best represents you, your friends and the country as a whole.

I agree, â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scary to say, but XF BSF JO GBDU QBSU PG UIF (SFBUFTU %FQSFTTJPO PG BMM UJNF u #VU Ms. McEwan and I disagree on the U.S.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current state in this crisis and how to fix it.

According to the S&P/CaseShiller nation home price index, the average home prices rebounded in July to the same level that they sat at nine years ago.

The unemployment rate sits at 7.8 percent in the U.S. after reaching 10 percent in the height of the crisis in October 2009, according to a report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released this past Friday, Oct. 5. Ç&#x201D;F %PX +POFT *OEVTUSJBM "Werage closed at its lowest point in the current administration at PO .BSDI 8IFO the market closed this past Friday UIF %PX DMPTFE BU Ç&#x201D;JT scaled average has more than douCMFE JO B MJUUMF PWFS NPOUIT Ç&#x201D;F TBNF JT USVF GPS UIF /"4%"2 $PNposite and the S&P 500 Index.

The real estate market, the financial district and the unemployment rate all show that the U.S. is

making a comeback, differing from the darker opinion of Ms. McEwan. who was sold on the idea that if â&#x20AC;&#x153;we continue to go down this path of destruction, America may never recover.â&#x20AC;?

Ms. McEwan also believes that â&#x20AC;&#x153;there are millions of illegal immigrants ... sitting around and collecting all of our hard-earned money.â&#x20AC;?

I think that is an unfair characterization.

Every undocumented person I know is extremely hardworking and only came to this country out of desperation for a better life. We need comprehensive immigration reform so that these tough, aspiring American citizens can come out of the shadows by helping to rebuild our communities and economy by buying into the system. Throwing all migrants aside like trash is not the answer.

The article also mentioned lowering taxes. According to a Tax Policy Center study of developed nations, the U.S. collected nearly 27 QFSDFOU PG (SPTT %PNFTUJD 1SPEVDU (%1 JO UISPVHI UBYFT XIJMF the international average was 36

percent. The U.S. ranked 30 out of 33 in this study. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think lowering taxes is the way to go either.

I do agree with Ms. McEwan that there is not enough money spent on education, especially comprehensive sex education and personal nutrition, nor is the country doing its best to treat our wounded veterans or invest in the long term for green technology.

As Ms. McEwan eloquently stated, â&#x20AC;&#x153;there are many things UIBU DPVME CF EPOF BOE 4)06-% be done,â&#x20AC;? and Ms. McEwan and I could bicker about those all day.

We agree that there are no more quick fixes and no more easy solutions.

What we canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t dispute is what the facts suggest: something has been working and that strategy can continue to work; we are not currently doomed to fail and â&#x20AC;&#x153;never SFDPWFS GSPN UIF (SFBUFTU %Fpression of all time.â&#x20AC;?

Lisa Tkach/The Mirror

Submitted by: Eric Lynch â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;14

The Vine

{The Vine}

October is

'" /, (GFL@ To kick off the month's events, Fairfield University held its first LGBTQ and Ally Art Show in the Lower Level BCC PAGE 8

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY NICHOLAS DIFAZIO ART BY MICHAEL ZIEFF (TOP LEFT), JOANNE CHOLY (TOP RIGHT, BOTTOM RIGHT) AND TONY FERRAIOLO (BOTTOM LEFT)

The Vine

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

Fairfield supports LGBTQ community through art show

Page 8

LGBTQ Events Out at The Workplace: An LGBT Alumni Group Panel Wednesday, Oct. 17, 7 p.m., BCC 200 Fairfield University alumni talk to students about their experiences of being openly gay in the workplace and gives advice about how to succeed in the workplace while also embracing diversity.

LGBTQ History Month Keynote featuring Jennifer Finney Boylan Thursday, Oct. 25, 7 p.m., Kelley Center Presentation Room Jennifer Finney Boylan, author of “She's Not There: a Life in Two Genders,” and “I'm Looking Through You: Growing Up Haunted,” advocates for transgender civil rights.

The Third Annual Fairfield University LGBTQ Social Thursday, Oct. 25, 8 p.m., Kelley Center Lobby The Alliance student group throws a social mixer for all members of the Fairfield University community immediately following Jennifer Finney Boylan's talk. Refreshments and friendly conversations will be provided.

Crystal Rodriguez/The Mirror

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By Crystal Rodriguez Staff Writer

L

esbian. Gay. Bisexual. Transgender. Questioning. In between these “all-encompassing” words and the convenient acronym are lives and experiences that can never be captured in letters or titles.

No one is just LGBTQ. And Fairfield University’s first LGBTQ and Ally Art show last Thursday illustrated that fact.

The art show kicked off the LGBTQ Month of events this October.

The committee had been working on the event for four months, according to Dunya Majeed ’15, a member of the LGBTQ Month planning committee.

The committee is comprised of faculty, staff and students from all parts of campus. Associate Director of the Career Planning Center Meredith Marquez invited Majeed into the committee.

Majeed opened the event with a warm welcome and thanked all of the contributing artists.

The art varied from sculptures and portraits to more abstract pieces. Students walking through the BCC stopped to enjoy the art and food.

“It's time for a change in the world,” said Majeed as she closed her speech. “Whether change is influenced by an art show or universal marriage equality – I’ll be there.”

When asked what motivated her involvement in the committee,

Majeed responded, “The most important issues of our generation are LGBTQ issues…we need events like these [on campus], or how else are we going to get the word out?”

"I found the art a little bit odd,” said Christopher Buza '16, as he observed the first exhibit by artist and student Jesus Nuñez ’14.

“But I’m interested to see what the community produced,” continued Buza. “It’s definitely good to have a university-sponsored event to celebrate minority groups on campus.”

But the LGBTQ community at Fairfield is still “very underrepresented,” said psychology professor Dr. Judith Primavera. She attended the event in support of friend Joanne Choly and the community.

Harvey Milkshakes Sunday, Oct. 28, 7 p.m., Loyo“But [the representation] is la Commons

so much better than 20 years ago,” continued Primavera. “That being said, things are not up to speed with other campuses that have more diversity – in spite of our efforts.”

Some students are also trying their best to make an effort. “I joined Alliance because I lacked an understanding of LGBTQ issues,” said Ricky Solano ’14, an Alliance executive board member attending the event.

Solano said he attended the event to not only support the community but also to learn more about the community. “When you don’t understand something, you should immerse yourself in it,” said Solano.

LGBTQ | PAGE 9

Alliance shows screening of “Milk,” a film about Harvey Milk, the wellknown gay rights activist and California’s first openly gay elected official. FYE Magis credit offered to first year students and milkshakes will be served.

Gender, Sex & Sexuality Commons (GSSC) LGBTQ History Month Reflection Monday, Oct. 29, 7 p.m., 70 McCormick Lounge The Gender, Sex & Sexuality Commons will host a reflective dinner to review LGBTQ History Month and its impact on campus. Food and light refreshments will be provided.

Fairfield faculty take the stage

All Love: An LGBTQ Film Series BCC 200 All films will be free and open to the general public.

salesmen in Florida and their desire for profit. From the first few seconds of the play to the final scene, the audience observes a group of salesmen who are driven by greed and the desire to dominate their coworkers. They are all materialistic.

The salesmen stoop to any level to ensure their own security and future success.

In the beginning of the play, the workers are being yelled at by their boss who brags about himself and his possessions and told them what they need to do in order to survive in the real estate business.

Every scene was filled with profanity and harsh verbal exchanges between the characters, which gave the audience an idea of what was to come later in the play.

“Weekend” Tuesday, Oct. 16, 7 p.m.

Two people have a one-night stand, but then their relationship unexpectedly grows into one of emotional sacrifice and mutual healing.

By Robert Hagstrom Contributing Writer

L

Nick Lacy

Dean of Dolan School of Business Donald Gibson (left) and Dennis Keenan (right), professor of philosophy, act in "Glengarry Glen Ross," portraying John Williamson and Shelly Levene, respectively.

ast week, a play titled "Glengarry Glen Ross" was held in the Black Box of the Quick Center for the Arts. A work of historical significance and popular movie adaptation starring big time actors including Alec Baldwin, Ed Harris and Jonathan Pryce, the show was nearly sold out.

The entire cast was comprised of Fairfield University faculty. They gave a commanding performance that left mostly everyone in the audience somewhere between stunned and speechless. The original screenplay writer, David Mamet, envisioned a play that would center on the idea of capitalism and individual corruption.

The play is about real estate

GLENGARRY | PAGE 10

“Pariah” Tuesday, Oct. 23, 7 p.m.

A 17-year-old high school senior is African-American and lesbian and struggles to understand how she can both.

“Trans” Tuesday, Oct. 30, 7 p.m.

The film series closes with an awardwinning documentary (2012) that features stories of people confronting the obstacles as transgender individuals.

The Vine

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

Page 9

Rowling's new book is less than enchanting

By Loan Le Executive Editor

I

n February 2012, fans of the fantasy book and movie series "Harry Potter" received news that J.K. Rowling would publish another book. Their enthusiasm was slightly dampened by confusion when Rowling said she had switched over to writing for adults.

“The Casual Vacancy,” released on Sept. 27, is about an idyllic town that significantly changes after the death of well-known councilor Barry Fairbrother. Barry’s death results in a ‘casual vacancy,’ an empty spot on the Pagford council.

Eventually the townspeople must decide on who should replace the deceased. Most importantly, the inheritor of Barry’s seat would determine the fate of the Fields, a housing project that is a blemish on the perfect façade of sleepy Pagford.

The fight for the seat leads to what Little, Brown and Company had described as "the biggest war the town has yet seen.” However, what the novel’s summary boasts is not fulfilled because the plot falls flat.

Each chapter consists of different characters’ coping with Barry’s death and the imminent voting that would change the town. Naturally, one would think more characters would add plenty of colors to the plot. The saying is: "The more, the merrier." Yet, this gets repetitive and monotonous.

Crammed into the first 350 pages are descriptions of the town of Pagford and day-to-day thoughts of too many characters to count. The rest of the 500-paged novel details the characters’ emotional unraveling. Loyalties are reconsidered.

Families break apart. Posts revealing secrets about the running candidates slowly appear on the Pagford council's website and further enrage locals when the user’s name is The_ Ghost_of_Barry_Fairbrother.

Harry Potter fans might resort, out of sheer boredom, to comparing this novel to the beloved series, but the only comparable aspect is a Vernon Dursley doppelganger named Howard Mollison, who is a pot-belly, lecherous councilman with an abhorrence for the Fields. His wife Shirley, a gossiper, most definitely fits the

mold of Vernon's horse-faced wife, Petunia Dursley. Otherwise, Rowling does succeed in separating herself from her bestselling series.

Though the plot falls flat and characters crowd the novel's pages, Rowling deserves praise for her storytelling; she has the sought-after ability to conjure (see what happened there?) a different world. Sadly, this fictional world is just not as interesting as the wizarding world.

When Rowling said this was an adult novel, she was definitely correct. Within the first hundred pages of “The Casual Vacancy,” the story branches into topics of sex, drugs and affairs. One sexually frustrated wife fantasizes about the men in town. The son of the local school's headmaster fornicates with the daughter of a drug-addicted woman from the Fields. Every curse word in the dialogue causes a jolt, a sheer indication that Rowling has, in fact, moved on.

Recently, at the Cheltenham Literature Festival in England, Rowling said she would return to writing a children's book. Perhaps this might be a better choice for Rowling.

Great eats Spotted

Contributed Photo

LGBTQ community and allies display artwork in the Lower Level BCC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

self, don’t cut yourself,” said Ferraiolo.

Solano said he was able to exHe hopes showcasing his art at pand his boundaries and meet in- Fairfield University will let students credible people in the LGBTQ com- know “if they have something on munity because he recognized that their mind, they can say it on a can“there is more to a person than one vas,” said Ferraiolo. quality."

“Expressing feelings and Contributing artist Tony Fer- dreams, all come through in the raiolo agrees with this statement. “I arts,” said Primavera. am artist, a nice guy, a friend,” said Just as Ferraiolo used his exFerraiolo. periences to help transgendered Ferraiolo is also a certified life youth, Primavera used a tremencoach and Transdous loss in her gender Youth Adlife to help artists The most imporvocate in New Harealize their poven. He founded tential. tant issues of our Create Yourself, a Primavera generation are group to support attended the Art transgender teenShowcase with a LGBTQ issues...we agers. Ferraiolo t-shirt that read: need events like hopes when stu"ART IS LIFE." these [on campus], The t-shirt was in dents look at his work they see honor of the Jaior how else are we there is more to me A. Hulley Arts going to get the him than being Foundation. transgendered.

In 2002, Priword out?

He is more than mavera started - Dr. Judith the foundation in “one quality.”

Ferraiolo’s viPrimavera memory of her brant and shockdaughter, Jaime. ing work portrays Primavera lost the struggle of being contained in Jaime to leukemia and wanted to categories of gender. create a foundation that helped othOne of Ferraiolo’s art pieces is ers express themselves through the a bottle of testosterone, and another arts, as Jaime did. is a Ken doll with the words: “You “Art isn’t just for those who are are not a man.” marginalized. Art makes people “I used to self-harm,” said Fer- more humane and healthier,” said raiolo. “[Now] through the art work Primavera.

I released my emotions.”

The art show demonstrated the He founded Create Yourself to desire to help others realize there help teenagers express their emo- is always a “light of hope,” said Mations in a healthy way. “Create your- jeed.

“

Nicholas DiFazio/The Mirror

The Spotted Horse Tavern is located at 26-28 Church Lane, Westport, Conn., and offers both pleasing ambiance and food to its patrons.

By Emily Kert Contributing Writer

F

or anyone in search of an interesting place to have a meal, the Spotted Horse Tavern in Westport is a new business with delicious food complimented by distinguished architecture.

The inside wooden architecture consists of horse paintings and a bar colored black and white. The orange awning, porch, shuttered windows and window panes also give the restaurant a home-like feel, and somewhat resembles the old house in Paris that was covered in vines from the children’s book "Madeline."

The menu is appealing, con-

sisting of a plethora of items such as salads, sandwiches and burgers, cheese, coffees and desserts, as well as an allergy and gluten-free section all served on small plates.

The small portions also leave the customer feeling satisfyingly full without being uncomfortable.

Some of the other unique dishes include lobster macaroni, scallops and small portions of cod dressed with caper reduction over sweet potato puree. The scallops in particular were grilled so that they were crispy but not overdone and laced with a light dressing and capers. The lobster macaroni was decorated with an interesting breaded topping, and the bits of creamy lobster lacked an overly-fishy taste.

The lobster was an interesting way to put a creative twist on the Italian comfort food, and the lemon on the top added an extra zing of flavor to the dish.

The hamburger black butter truffle was another interesting dish that put a creative twist on a popular American food.

Martinis and cocktails are also available for any guests wanting a beverage with their meal. This restaurant also allows the opportunity for guests to dine inside or outside, weather permitting. The tasty, light, interesting dishes served on small plates, the storybook feel and the horse tavern theme are all great reasons to visit this restaurant.

”

The Vine

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

Page 10

Caught in a "Daze" at Fairfield boutique Faculty

perform in "Glengarry" play

By Nicoletta Richardson Assistant News Editor

M

ost Fairfield University students who shop on Post Road know of the same chain stores, such as Victoria Secret, Banana Republic or Life Is Good. But a new and unique boutique has been gaining publicity in town.

Hazel Daze features original brands that make items such as embroidered pillows and curtains, hand-painted glassware and oneof-a-kind jewelry.

Many of Hazel Daze’s products have been made out of recycled items, such as seatbelts that have been turned into handbags, coasters that are made out of paper and bike parts that have been turned into picture frames.

“I believe strongly in recycled things, and that’s the base, like Fair Trade and all kinds of repurpose things,” said storeowner Lib DeNure. “That’s what I love, so I keep trying to find more and more of that.”

The boutique also carries many items from neighboring artists including necklaces and bracelets from three local jewelers, along with photography taken

by DeNure’s own son and his girlfriend.

The idea of the boutique started when DeNure and her son were coming back from the New York International Gift Fair held in New

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

Nicholas DiFazio/The Mirror

More information about Hazel Daze, located at 86 Post Road across Vinny's restaurant, can be found on WKHLU ZHEVLWH www.hazeldaze.com.

York City. Though DeNure originally attended the fair to buy more products for her online store, the idea of the boutique was sparked on the train ride home.

“We would be fantasizing about opening a store because we had bought a lot of textural and colorful things that wouldn’t necessarily present themselves online as well as they do with the touch and feel of actually seeing them,” said DeNure.

On that same train ride, the name of the little store was also created. “Hazel” was DeNure’s grandmother’s name, and “daze” went well when combining the two z’s, according to DeNure.

DeNure continues to seek new ways to get the word out about Hazel Daze in order to get more customers, meet new people and learn something original everyday about the business.

“I love learning new things,

so this is a whole new avenue for me,” said DeNure. “I don’t like being stagnant. And then people you meet, every single conversation has taught me something else or has made me think about something else. So I like talking to the people; that’s my favorite thing.”

DeNure thanks her family, friends and the people who donated their time to the business.

She said that it is “the only way this happened.”

Mumford & Sons’ “Babel” towers the charts

By Celeste Tallarico Contributing Writer

D

ebuting at number one on the Billboard 200 Chart and on the number one spot on iTunes’ U.S. Top 10 Albums Chart, Mumford & Sons’ highly anticipated sophomore album “Babel” does not disappoint.

Mumford & Sons gained popularity in the U.S. with their debut album “Sigh No More” in 2010, which went platinum four times in the U.K. and twice in the U.S. The band has kept true to their folk roots on this album but have turned the volume up by creating a sound far too loud for the small pubs of the U.K. Rather than letting their rising fame get to their heads, Mumford & Sons took their excitement and pumped it into these 12 tracks, 15 if you buy the deluxe edition. Ben Lovett (keys, accordion, drums) said on the scale of their success and coming together to write "Babel:" “When we came to recording this record, we had a choice: to shy away from that [the size of the growing popularity] or to realise that people dig what we’re doing, and make something robust with that energy.” And that they did.

The first track, aptly named “Babel,” starts the album off with a bang. With a strong opening guitar riff and Marcus Mumford’s (lead vocals, guitar, drums) almost urgent voice, listeners would be hard pressed not to feel the band's energy seeping through their speakers.

Contributed Photo

“Broken Crown,” a dark and powerful track, can be interpreted as a falling to temptation. The fire and furry sound carries throughout the entire track and the imagery created through beautifully crafted lyrics like “The pull on my flesh was just too strong” are as powerful as the meaning behind them.

The final refrain shows the religious influence found on much of the album: “So crawl on my belly ‘til the sun goes down/ I’ll never wear your broken crown/ I can take the road and I can fuck it all away/ But in this twilight our choices seal our fate."

With the quiet beginning with

focus on lead vocals and the harmonic chants mirroring the instrumental, “Below My Feet” contains all the elements of a Mumford & Sons song.

With lines like “And I was still but I was under your spell/ When I was told by Jesus all was well/So all must be well,” and the powerful chorus “Keep the earth below my feet/ For all my sweat, my blood runs weak/ Let me learn from where I have been/ Keep my eyes to serve, my hands to learn,” this song resonates something deep within. After taking a closer look at the lyrics, this track is fully charged with religious

influence.

The bonus track “Where Are You Now?” is the stand out track on this album. Upon initial listen it seems as though they did a collaboration with artist Ron Pope, that is how unlike Mumford the voice sounded. This heart wrenching song, with its exaggerated notes and strong chorus, will do more than give you chills. Any human being who has ever experienced heartbreak will be able to relate to this song. “Where Are You Now” is one of those tracks you will play over and over again, it is that good.

With the mix of religious invocations and lovers’ heartbreak, “Babel” has everything a sophomore album needs. Mumford was quoted on their website, “I feel like it's [“Babel”] more exposed, more naked.”

Which makes sense since most of the tracks on “Babel” were recorded live. “When you're in a room with headphones and microphones and no one else, you play it quite differently to how you play it live,” Mumford said. And that is what matters most anyway: how a song translates from the album to concert.

Other notable tracks: r “Remainder” r “Lover’s Eyes” r “The Boxer” (feat. Jerry Douglas and Paul Simon)

The two main characters in the play, John and Shelly, are co-workers and friends. But when Shelly finds himself in a jam and without any leads to sell houses, he turns to John, who at first won’t help him.

After deliberating for a while, John agrees to help him, but at a cost to Shelly. This demonstrates that money and greed are more important than friendship to these salesmen.

Later, the office is robbed and the sales leads are missing. It is later revealed that Shelly is the culprit. It could be interpreted that the pressures of being in the real estate business are too much for Shelly, which prompted his actions.

Junior Hannah Patridge said, “I really enjoyed the play. All the actors did a great job of highlighting what happens when your job starts to change you.” She went on to emphasize “when the corporate world makes you do things you never thought you would do.”

This play outlined how difficult it is to work in a corporate setting such as this. Not only did the play exceed expectations, it taught that good decision making is always the key to being successful in the work place.

The set was simple and altered by the actors as the play continued.

The characters and the circumstances they faced were unforgettable, which truly reflected David Mamet’s mindset of how he envisioned his play in action. It was a great depiction of how greed and power plays a major role in society, and the play gave an interesting perspective of how easily it can overtake and change people’s lives.

After the play ended Thursday night, there was a brief discussion with the audience. Dr. Kevin Cassidy of the politics department expressed his view that the salesmen had to be ruthless in order to survive. He referenced Karl Marx’s idea that capitalism is highly individualistic and connected it to this play.

“I saw this as this critique of capitalism. This is about the fact of what capitalism is,” said Cassidy.

“That’s exactly what the problem is.”

Capitalism has its perks and faults. It serves as a great system for businesses to get started and allows for competition to exist in our society. Unfortunately, it can also bring out negative qualities in people and becomes the foundation for greed and power. This play shows the fine line between the good and bad in capitalism and demonstrates the importance of integrity and selflessness that should exist in the workplace.

iPick, YouListen The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

The Vine

"Zin Zak"

By Luigi DiMeglio Chief Copy Editor

by John LaBarbera Big Band

Page 11

"None Shall Pass"

by Aesop Rock

I listen to “None Shall Pass” when I want to begin feeling on-edge. Hip Hop's fabled grit and grime is calling, and it's appropriately found underground. I am not going to pretend that Aesop Rock is as accessible as the shallow mainstream, but I put “None Shall Pass” here for the reason that the melodic instrumentals and beat make this tune worth giving the extremely cryptic lyrics a try. This rapper has sat on the Boston University Board of Trustees, and you will practically have an English degree by the time you understand every verse. This song is a protest. This song has a fearless rhyme scheme. This song is dark and complex, yet it will appeal to your subconscious as strongly as any other urge to rebel.

Stare into space or kill the lights. Fold your hands on your lap. This is the song for your least-known self: the soul. Jazz is the most powerful language I know, and it uses no words. The genre is easy to pick up with the building structure of “Zin Zak.” Begin with the bass and rhythm. The rest will carry you. The John LaBarbera Big Band can give any scene the magic of New York City with this song.

Anytime you hear a single player float above the band, there is improvisation at work. Everything about that player's style is a message. Can you tell how passionate they are about something? How angry? How cool? And yes, I've worked out to this song.

"Who"

"No Regrets"

by Tujamo & Plastik Funk

by Aesop Rock

Your reward for navigating through my unpopular and contradictory taste in music is this treasure. It was about 2 a.m. in a seemingly blurry Manhattan pizza shop when I first heard this fresh slice of a genre I had begun to lose faith in. “Who” came up on the Shazam read and I was instantly in love. Finally, a House groove that you can sink your teeth into. This song is memorable because the melody is played in low tones and on the floor; the listener automatically feels heavier, unlike most House music. That's probably why this song reminds my roomate of “gorillas having sex.” My response: Shouldn't every party feel a bit primal?

The descent is just about finished. “No Regrets” is the final step into where Hip Hop began. This is a story. It's about a girl's life – beginning to end.

Every line is a simple piece of the tale. The kicker: This song's message is powerful enough to have you rethink your life. “No Regrets” is Aesop's beautiful and friendly reminder that every day can and should be a personal achievement. This should not be your favorite song – it is not mine – but it is my favorite presentation of a very special message.

Photo illustration by Michael Girandola/The Mirror

Online

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

Send your thoughts to info@fairfieldmirror.com.

COFFEE BREAK | 12

IDLUÀHOGPLUURU FRP

Ask Miss Anne Dear Miss Anne, I’m feeling overwhelmed. Actually I’m passed overwhelmed and have gone into panic mode. My professors have scheduled my midterms spread out over two weeks pretty evenly and I feel like I can’t manage them all.

There is so much I want to do besides my work but I know I have to keep up my grades.

How do I manage my time better?

Sincerely, Stressed Student

Send your questions to askmissanne@gmail.com Disclaimer: This is column is for entertainment purposes only. The author is a student, not a therapist, and the column is not intended to take the place of professional advice. The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Mirror and its staff members.

My Dear Stressed Student, It is understandable that you are stressed.

Midterms are synonymous with the fall.

But with the season comes some of the best weather at Fairfield for going downtown with friends, apple picking and hanging out at the beach. It’s still warm enough to go party in a light coat so going out every night to take

Have you sent an email to the office of Residence Life and get the feeling that it just wasn’t read? The inbox of every Area Coordinator is surely bombarded by the September avalanche of vomit, damage and roommate conflict. The solution is to get competitive. Here are some Email subject lines to grab ResLife’s attention.

Comedy Corner

BY LUIGI DIMEGLIO AND LISA TKACH

Anna Wolk ‘13 Columnist Loan Le ‘14 Editor

Editor /RDQ /H ª LQIR#IDLUÀHOGPLUURU FRP

Because we could all use a little advice now and then...

advantage of the great weather seems like a good idea … and then it catches up with you.

Great weather is nice. Great grades are better. But it all depends on your priorities. I love the fall so …

Even though these aren’t your finals they are just as important.

Midterms can get you affiliated with your professor’s testing style as well as gauge how you will do in the class overall. Do well and get it over with.

Easier said than done as a cold front comes in, and we all want to hibernate. But you just have to make yourself write a schedule and stick to it as best as possible.

You should also be concerned with how much time you spend online in comparison to your time spent studying for midterms.

For Face-

book have your friends change your password, MySpace too if you are that cool. Netflix is another problem for us university students trying to get anything done, but it must be avoided during this time. Twitter … that needs to go too. Your followers want to hear about you’re A+, not your failures.

Please don’t think that this is easy. It is about discipline which most students these days have little of. And when they seem to be focused most times it is attributed to Adderall and over caffeinating.

So if you would like to avoid these destructive alternate routes I suggest taking a hard long look at your priorities, make a schedule for yourself and try to remove as many distractions as possible.

Good Luck Kiddo, Miss Anne

WeeklY Chess Puzzle

White to move and mate in two Last week’s answer: 1. Qh6+...Kg8 2. Qxg7# White’s queen is safe on a6 because the white bishop pins the black pawn on g7. After black’s king makes the only legal move to g8, white’s queen delivers mate on g7.

To learn to read chess notation, visit fuchess.org/notation

Sports

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

Page 13

This Week in Sports Watch out for Fairfield Athletics

Senior Stag Spotlight With Men's soccer player Adam Cowen

What To Watch For Wednesday - No games.

Q.What are your favorite movies and why?

Thursday- No games.

A. "The Notebook," "Titanic" and "High School Musical" because I'm so totally in love with Ryan Gosling, Leonardo DiCaprio and Zac Efron. They are so dreamy.

Friday- Men's Soccer at St. Peter's, 3 p.m.

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A. "Boom Boom" by Justice Crew, "Gold Rush" by Ed Sheeran, "The Ketchup Song," "Crazy Frog" by Crazy Frog and "The Full Monty" by The Monty Python.

Saturday- Volleyball at Canisius, 2 p.m.

Q.If you could be any animal, what would you be and why?

Sunday- Women's Soccer at Siena 1 p.m.

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Monday- No games.

Q. If you could be in any reality show what would it be and why?

A. "Storage Wars." Think of the things you could win in that.

Tuesday- No games.

Q. If you could have dinner with anyone dead or alive who would it be?

A. Preferably someone alive ... but Sacha Baron Cohen. He's such a genius.

4 :KDW ZRXOG \RX EULQJ ZLWK \RX LI \RX ZHUH VWUDQGHG RQ D GHVHUWHG LVland?

A. A hot mermaid and a tank for her.

4 ,I WKHUH ZDV D PRYLH DERXW \RXU FROOHJH H[SHULHQFH ZKDW ZRXOG LW EH called and why?

A. "From The Training Field to the Library ... to Project X." It's pretty self explanatory.

We're on Facebook!

Like Fairfield Mirror Sports for pictures from all the on campus games!

By The Numbers 1,696 3 3

Women's soccer's goalkeeper Veronica Saez posted her third shutout of the season with a 2-0 win over Niagara.

Volleyball's Kara Reis currently has 1,696 digs in her Fairfield career, breaking an old Fairfield record on Sunday afternoon.

Freshman swimmer Kelly Mulligan won three individual events in her debut for the Stags, swimming against BC on Saturday.

Quote of the Week â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really great for her. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of those kids who shows up every day at practice, and really works hard, tries to get better.â&#x20AC;?

- Head coach Alija Pittenger about Kara Reis

Sports 3x5 Because they like to talk ... Sports.

Jennifer Calhoun Sports Editor

Michael O'Keeffe The Mate

Thomas Shea Assistant Sports Editor

Your 2012-2013 3x5 Columnists: Jennifer Calhoun, Thomas Shea and Michael O'Keeffe.

First long weekend of the semester. How did you spend your extra day off?

Red Sea Madness is on Friday! Are you excited for the season to start??

El Classico was this past weekend and ended 2-2.

Who proved themselves to be the world's best, Ronaldo or Messi?

There's been incredible support for former 3x5 member John Tessitore's journey for OCD awareness. Thoughts on the support?

Adam Cowen asks: If you had to have an itchy rash anywhere on your body where would it be?

Well, I had an interesting dinner with the best Mirror Staff ever, The Mate, Worldboss, and this week's Stag Spotlight ... No words can really describe that.

I'm very excited! It all starts Friday! Can't wait to get the season underway and get our B section underway. It's going to be a great year for basketball.

This is tough. I've personally always been a fan of Ronaldo over Messi, but I can't deny that Messi is world class. But the Manchester United fan in me says Ronaldo is the best.

John's documentary "Heroes Get Remembered but Legends Never Die" was one of the best films I've seen. Everybody needs to watch this and be informed about OCD and John Kelly.

That is ... the weirdest question I have ever been asked. I can honestly say I have never thought about this. But since I have to ... I guess I'll say my shoulder ... I can't actually feel it anyway!

I spent it relaxing around a bonfire on the beach looking at the stars and making wishes thinking about how insignificant we are in this world.

There are a lot of players seeking redemption for last year's finals loss. Red Sea Madness is a good time to showcase their skills before its back to business on on Nov. 2.

They scored the same amount of goals so there even! But the fact that Messi has scored in every minute of a game for Barca except five is quite incredible.

Great documentary for a great guy and a great cause.

Get on Youtube to watch and learn in support of OCD awareness week!

Listen, mate, 3 x 5 is not the place to vent about your Saturday night escapades.

Go get it checked out at the health center, bro.

Went home, ate my body weight in meatloaf and mashed potatoes, and then hibernated so long I missed my first class Tuesday. I feel like I did Columbus proud.

It's going to be a good show.

I hear Marcus Gilbert is a freak when it comes to dunks, and the Vazquez-Linney tag-team from 3 point land will be deadly.

El Classico?? Is that the Mexican version of a Big Mac? I once scored a goal with Messi on FIFA, so I'm gonna say he won.

Absolutely awesome. I heard he got a shoutout from Boomer Esiason.

Never a better time for a "HUHUH SSSSSS CREEEP PWNNN ELITE" reference. Keep it going John!

This is by far the best question we've been asked all year. I'm not allowed to say where, but anyone curious enough can schedule an appointment to investigate.

Sports

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

This Week In Stag Country

By Jeannine Nocera Staff Writer

Men’s Soccer This weekend, the men’s soccer team traveled to New Rochelle to open the MAAC season against Iona College.

The Stags have been unbeaten in the MAAC for the past year and unfortunately lost this weekend against Iona with a score of 4-2.

After the first score from the Gaels, Daniel Shaw ’14 scored to tie up the game with an assist from George Newton ’16. Iona then scored again with only four minutes remaining, regaining the lead.

In the second half, Iona scored a pair of goals, expanding the lead 4-1 over the Stags.

Sophomore Jake Zuniga scored his first goal of the season 68 minutes into the game, resulting in the final score of 4-2.

The Stags continue their MAAC season with a game against St. Peter’s College this Friday at 3 p.m.

Swimming The Fairfield swimming and diving team opened their season against Boston College on Saturday. The men’s team won the meet with a score of 153-129.

Sophomore Tyler Conley won three individual events: the 50m freestyle, 100m freestyle as well as the 100m fly, starting off the season on an amazing note.

Junior Cody Parker won the 400m freestyle as well as receiving 3rd in the 200m freestyle.

Senior Paul Bimmler came

in 2nd place in both the 100m backstroke as well as then 200m backstroke. Junior Kevin Greener was the runner-up in the 800m freestyle, Chris Weaver’ 15 came in third in the 100m with a personal best and received 3rd place points in the 200m individual medley.

Sophomore Brett Borgognone came in 3rd in the 200m fly with a personal best as well as earning 2nd place points.

Sophomore Joe Dowling placed third on the 3-meter with a personal best. Junior Brien Bates placed 5th on the 1-meter with a personal best as well as Ryan Krebs ’13 finishing 4th on the 3-m and 4th on the 1-m for diving.

The Women’s team came close to the Eagles, but fell short with a score of 152-137.

Freshman Kelly Mulligan had an amazing first meet for the Stags, winning three individual events, the 100m backstroke, the 200m backstroke and the 200 individual medley, as well as earning 2nd place in the 200m medley relay.

Senior Cacky Keating began her last season with two individual victories as well as making her collegiate debut as the lead leg of the 200m medley relay.

The Stags relay team consisted of Suzy Lawlor’14, Keating, Mulligan, and Emily Pedrick’14.

Keating won the 200m fly as well as the 100m fly.

Lawlor won the 100m breaststroke as well as finishing fourth in the 200m breaststroke and coming in 2nd in the 200m individual medley.

Sophomore transfer Ariel Bond won the 400m freestyle as

Page 14

well as winning 2nd place in the 200m freestyle.

For the diving team, Ashlee Steinberger '15 came in 2nd on the 1-m, as well as 3rd on the 3-m. Sophomore Lauren Kemple placed 5th on the 1-m meter as well as 6th on the 3-m.

Cross Country This past weekend, both men and women competed in the New England Championships at Stanley Park in Westfield, Massachusetts.

The men’s team came in 16th out of a total of 37 teams while the women came in 22nd.

Sophomore Connor Kelley, in addition to Howie Rosas’14, Brian Cleary’14 and Kyle Short’13 all had their personal bests in the 8k this weekend, and all came in at under 26 minutes.

Junior John Lobo also had an amazing race in addition to Dylan Fisher’ 13 and Greg Chase ’13.

For the women’s team, Maureen Crimmins’ 15 was the Stag’s first finisher with a personal best for a 5k.

Sophomores Danielle Renzi and Cate Forte ’15 had their personal bests. In addition, Sam Goodnow’13, Hillary Maxson’14 and Maggie MacKenzie’ 15 were the top 6 runners for the Stags.

The Stags run again on October 13 at home to host the Fr. W. Laurence O’Neil Invitational.

The women’s 5k begins at 10:30 a.m. and the men’s 8k begins at 11:15 a.m. The Stags travel to Lake Buena Vista, Fl on Oct. 27 for the MAAC Championships will which air on ESPN3.

Cartoon Courtesy of Lisa Tkach/The Mirror

Lara Lopez-Cano/The Mirror

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Sports

The Mirror | Week of October 10, 2012

Page 15

Stags continue impressive win streak Women's soccer moves to 4-0 in MAAC for first time since 2002

Thomas Shea/The Mirror

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By Steven Vissichelli Contributing Writer

By Jennifer Calhoun Sports Editor

The Fairfield University women’s soccer team captured another win, improving to 4-0-0 in Metro Atlantic Conference (MAAC) play.

They defeated Canisius College 3-1 on Lessing Field Sunday afternoon. The victory keeps the Stags undefeated in conference play and improves their overall record to 7-32. “It feels very good (being 4-0). We were confident coming into the season. We have a very good returning group of players coming back from last year’s team who made it to the semi-finals of the MAAC tournament. And we felt that we were going to take some significant steps,” said Coach Jim O’Brien.

Senior Lauren Reilly scored the only goal of the first half, finding the net after rebounding a shot from Shannon Fay ‘14. Reilly also added the Stags second goal after a perfect pass by Jessica Broadbent ‘15.

However, the 2-0 lead only lasted 59 seconds after Brianna Smith brought one back for Canisius. Sophomore Erin Pettersen gave the Stags breathing room when she scored the third goal for the Stags in the 86th minute.

Sophomore Kathleen Early earned the win in net

making four saves in her 90 minutes of play. Being back on Lessing Field seemed to give an edge to the Stags.

Junior Carly Beyar described playing on Lessing again, saying that it brought so much meaning to the game.

“It felt amazing considering that it’s our home field and this is where we love to play.

Whenever we’re here we like to show everyone how good of a team we are and we like representing our team in front of our family and friends,” said Beyar.

Coach O’Brien echoed the sentiment and described how important it was for the Stags to be back on home turf.

“We felt (the stretch of away games) took its toll a bit. It wasn’t what we had anticipated initially, some last minute changes were made in the schedule, which forced us to lose two home games that we were actually supposed to have,” O’Brien said.

One such game was a 4-1 loss to Fordham that was the last loss before the Stags went on a four game unbeaten streak.

“The Fordham game really opened our eyes and opened the team’s eyes, so it was a bit of a wakeup call,” said O’Brien.

But being back on the home field was exciting for the Stags, and O’Brien and the rest of the coaching staff, had a bit of an added surprise for the girls.

“We had our brand new uniforms that we surprised

the girls with on Friday night.

It was like Christmas, so it was kind of a neat surprise and the new uniforms look really sharp ... So it’s like when the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame come out in their green jerseys ... So I think it was pretty inspirational, and the timing was perfect,” O’Brien added.

While the jerseys were inspirational, it’s truly a remarkable team that is out on the field for the Stags game after game.

“I definitely think the chemistry of the team is higher [than last year]. I think that we move the ball better.

I just think that overall we’re playing more as a team and we’re playing soccer. That’s what we’re here to do," said O'Brien.

However, the Stags have a big challenge on Friday when they face the only other unbeaten team when they travel to Marist.

O’Brien looks forward to the game. He said: “We can’t wait. We have three days of practice to prepare. We’ve had a chance to see them play. We have some scouting reports, so we’re working really hard in preparing for the game.”

The biggest MAAC women’s soccer battle of the year thus far will take place Friday Oct. 12 at Marist College.

O’Brien said: “Two undefeated teams at this juncture … you can’t get any better than that.”

Thomas Shea/The Mirror

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SPORTS | 16

Online New and improved sports blog.

Online only coverage.

Week of October 10, 2012

IDLUĂ&#x20AC;HOGPLUURU FRP

Sports Editor: Jennifer Calhoun ÂŞ VSRUWV#IDLUĂ&#x20AC;HOGPLUURU FRP

Reis breaks The Record Volleyball's Kara Reis sets the record for most career digs

Thomas Shea/The Mirror

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By Thomas Shea Assistant Sports Editor When Kara Reis '13 took to the floor on Sunday, most people in attendance knew that she was going to break the all time digs record. After all, following yet another solid game the day before, in which she registered 22 digs to tie the record, Reis needed just one more dig to have the record all to her own.

No suspense-filled game, climactic Hollywood ending , or Goliathan effort was required. Just one dig was it.

With only three points tallied in the first set, the moment came. Before anyone could react, Reis became the all-time record holder, getting a dig that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look any more special than the first 1,674, but it was just as important to the team as every single one preceding it.

Reis finished Sunday with 1,696 digs for her career, notching yet another 20 dig performance in her illustrious Fairfield career. The senior is also the all-time leader in digs per set, averaging 4.07 throughout her first three years, and has only improved this season. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I never really thought Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d be able to do it, I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make it a goal of mine,â&#x20AC;? said Reis after the game. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My goal was to win the MAAC Championship in my four years, so if that means this happens in the process â&#x20AC;Ś then thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all I care about.â&#x20AC;?

The record solidifies Reisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mark on Fairfield as one of the greatest players in the history of the program - something that her teammates appreciate almost more than Reis herself. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This means a lot because I know how hard sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s worked over the past four years, everyday,â&#x20AC;? said fellow senior and housemate Stephanie Cruz.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;I knew she was going to get it.â&#x20AC;?

Head coach Alija Pittenger, who recruited Reis to come all the way from San Diego to play for Fairfield, was happy to see a player like Reis break the record, attributing her success to the time Kara puts in during practice. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really great for her. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one of those kids who shows up every day at practice, and really works hard, tries to get better,â&#x20AC;? said Pittenger.

What makes the record breaking performance oddly unique is that it may not be the most talked about part of the weekend for the Stags, or even the most talked about event in that particular game. In the second set against Marist, with Fairfield trailing 6-5, the Stags had the serve.

Twenty straight points later, the Stags never gave up the serve and had won the match 25-6.

The person serving that entire timewas none other than Kara Reis.

The 20 consecutive served points for Reis is good for second all-time in NCAA history, just two short of the record. The Stags would go on to trounce Marist, winning in 3 straight sets.

But before all the records, all the achievements, all the wins, all the hours spent in the gym, and even before all the digs, Reis didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t look like she had a shot at being a bench player for many college teams, forget an eventual Hall of Famer.

In her senior year at Poway High School in San Diego, Reis tore her ACL, and missed the season. Most schools that were looking at Reis stopped talking to her, and because she couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t display her talents, it limited her college options. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A lot of schools said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;We have no interest in you. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think you can get better in time,â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;? said Reis.

Ironically, the injury was re-

sponsible for a bond that formed between Reis and Pittenger. Pittenger had had the exact same injury as Reis, which encouraged her to take the chance on Reis. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She told me, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I know you can come back from it, because I came back from it,'â&#x20AC;? Reis said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It gave me a lot of hope and faith, and I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a huge reason why I came to Fairfield.â&#x20AC;?

Coach Pittenger was able to see a little bit of herself in Kara and was willing to take the chance because of the determination and focus â&#x20AC;&#x201D; as well as the goofy playfulness â&#x20AC;&#x201D; that has now made Reis famous among the members of the volleyball team. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think, in general, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not really sure how people are going to come back from an injury like that, but just her personality and how she handles things in general, you knew that she was going to be able to do it,â&#x20AC;? said Pittenger. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Her coaches had really great things to say of her. She was everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite,â&#x20AC;? she added.

Reis is still â&#x20AC;&#x153;everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favor-

ite,â&#x20AC;? and she has seen her role on the team change over the years, depending on who you ask. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I really look to her, she always has everyone organized, making sure that she everyone knows what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re doing,â&#x20AC;? said Nicole Marzik â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;16. â&#x20AC;&#x153;She really is, not in a bad way, the mom of the team, taking care of all of us. She is always the one to step up and take charge.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the last couple of years, sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taken more of a leadership role on the court, where sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talking to people, trying to get people going,â&#x20AC;? said Pittenger.

But that leadership is not the only thing that Reis is known for. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also always been that person you can look to when you need a laugh or smile. She keeps it light on the court, which is great,â&#x20AC;? commented Pittenger. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And this year sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taken it to a whole new level where sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s helping everyone else get better and making the people around her better. " She continued: "Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re always

going to have that player on the court that makes everyone else feel better, and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great that its Kara.â&#x20AC;?

Reis, whose bubbly personality shows both on the court (itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rare to catch her without a smile on her face before each play) and off (upon sitting down for an earlier interview, she promptly spun around in her chair, smiling), now claims one of the top spots in Fairfield volleyball history.

But with the digs record now behind her, Reis can focus in on guiding her team to a MAAC Tournament Championship . â&#x20AC;&#x153;That would mean everything in the world to me,â&#x20AC;? said Reis. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been saying for the past three years â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, but this is it for me. So for me, everything in my entire life has amounted to this one year, this one moment.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;All I know,â&#x20AC;? said Reis, sharing a smile with Cruz, â&#x20AC;&#x153;is that I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have done it without these girls.â&#x20AC;?

Tom Shea/The Mirror

Reis (center) is honored after breaking the record on Sunday.