“The Pulse of the Student Body” The SpectatorThe Stuyvesant High School Newspaper

Volume 111 No. 16 June 1, 2021 stuyspec.com OPINIONS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT “Remember Tulsa” “Alfie Templeman Ignites the Imagination” Marking 100 years since the Tulsa Race Massacre, Opinions writer A&E writer Frances Schwarz reviews the brand new record from in- Isabel Ching details the history behind the event and the long-lasting die-pop artist Alfie Templeman, a genre blending project that serves impact it has on race relations today. as concrete proof of a rising star.

see page 13 see page 21 2021 ENDORSEMENTS Sasha Socolow/ The Spectator Sasha Socolow/ The

Junior Caucus, Daniel Jung and Andrey Sokolov Eliza Oppenheimer/ The Spectator Eliza Oppenheimer/ The Sasha Socolow/ TheSasha Socolow/ Spectator

Senior Caucus, Cynthia Tan and Elio Torres Sophomore Caucus, Amanda Cisse and Margaret Mikhalevsky

Congratulations to the 2021-2022 Caucus Leaders. Read pages 4-5 to learn more about each. NEWSBEAT Stuyvesant Continues Weissman Hosts Students who have received NX grades on their report Discussion with cards this year will likely at- Building Renovations tend summer school. Mayoral Candidate Regents examinations this Amid Remote Instruction year are optional, with stu- By CHRISTOPHER P.E. Brian Moran said in an e-mail dents automatically opted SULLIVAN, EUGENE YOO, interview. Kathryn Garcia (‘88) out of them. JINA KOH, and NADA The replacements were HAMEED prompted after the two-to-four By JENNY LIU and NYC public schools will be Additional Reporting by escalator malfunctioned while stu- MOMOCA MAIRAJ fully reopening for in-per- Pulindu Weerasekara dents were on it, causing several son learning this Septem- injuries. Since then, the escalators Social studies teacher Linda ber with no remote option While the Stuyvesant building have gone under construction, cre- Weissman hosted a discussion for students. was nearly devoid of people for the ating an inconvenience in traveling with New York City mayoral past year, its plans for renovations through the building. “In the two candidate and Stuyvesant alumna Seniors Brian Zhang and did not come to a halt. Stuyvesant years since the accident, students Kathryn Garcia (‘88) via Zoom on Lamia Haque are recipi- has completed replacing 12 of its have been without escalators, for May 19. Senior Ann Zhang facili- ents of the 2021 New York 13 escalators and is currently work- the most part, making traveling be- tated the discussion, touching on Times College Scholar- ing on the construction of a new tween classes exponentially more topics such as Garcia’s Stuyvesant ship. robotics lab. difficult,” Moran said. background and policy reform. After hearing concerns, former During the event, Garcia talk- Seniors Arpita Saha, Mas- Escalators Principal Eric Contreras pushed to ed about how her experience as sismo Pensabene, Lisa Though the building’s escala- replace all escalators. “Mr. [Eric] commissioner for the NYC Sani- Chen, and Md Hoque are tors had previously gone through Contreras had been an advocate tation Department, which is re- all recipients of the ACE renovations pre-pandemic, the for a full replacement of the esca- sponsible for garbage collection, lack of students in the building lators for some time and was able

Scholarship. recycling collection, street clean- Courtesy of Kathryn Garcia Press Team has proved advantageous to the to help get the project started,” he ing, and snow removal, inspires Some of her mayoral initia- Robotics team StuyPulse project’s completion. “The pan- said. “The project has been funded many of her climate change-relat- won the demic has actually helped with the and managed by the School Con- tives would include converting FRC 694 Design- ed policies. She also worked at the Rikers Island, NYC’s main jail er’s Award in the Game De- completion of this project, as the struction Authority and did not Department of Environmental sign Challenge and the company (Kone) has been able come from the school budget.” complex, into a renewable energy Re- Protection and launched NYC’s zone, implementing a Green New gional Chairman’s Award to continue work throughout and first electronic waste recycling in the 2021 FIRST Robot- with less interference from school program, a styrofoam ban, and ics Competition. events and activities,” Assistant continued on page 6 the nation’s largest food scraps re- continued on page 2 Principal of Security/Health and cycling program. Page 2 The Spectator• June 1, 2021 News Spanish Cinema/Great Films Elective Returns to Stuyvesant By ISABELLA JIA, MAGGIE tive that featured films. “We need “Throughout the year, the stu- SANSONE, and SAKURA to do a variety of different ap- dents worked on making their YAMANAKA proaches to teaching, and I think own original films. I particularly that film and anything in the arts enjoyed working with my class- After being cut from the 2020- [is] very important, not only to mates, from writing the script to Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons and NASA 21 school year due to budget cuts, [teach] but to [learn] too. For me, recording to editing,” he said in an the Spanish Cinema/Great Films the film doesn’t serve only as an e-mail interview. “Though it was a WORLDBEAT elective will be returning for the elective, but something more seri- challenging process, collaborating 2021-22 school year. The elec- ous,” she said. with other students in the class to The films shown in this elective put together this year-long project tive, taught by Spanish teacher Moderna will apply for FDA authorization after trials proved to Anna Montserrat, offers students cover many subjects regarding his- was incredibly rewarding.” the opportunity to watch Spanish torical events of Spanish-speaking For Zhao, taking Spanish be effective in 12 to 17-year-olds. films and immerse themselves in countries. “I divide the class into Cinema/Great Films helped him the Spanish language and culture. different topics. For example, one appreciate films more and under- The course mainly features of the topics is an introduction of stand their significance. “Because films from Spain and Latin Amer- the history of the Spaniards. An- of this elective, I can now talk President Joe Biden ordered his team to investigate the origins ica from various time periods. other topic is about social-political and write about films in a more of COVID-19 in light of the re-emergence in the lab leak the- “The course is an overview of parties and conflicts in Spain and nuanced way. I also developed an ory. some of the most important films Latin America,” Montserrat said. appreciation for film as an artistic from the Spanish-speaking cin- “We have other topics including medium, and now I often look to ema, representing both Spain and immigration, personal problems, film when I’d like to learn more Latin America. I’m going to be or personal conflicts for people about the culture or history of a Belarus intercepted a commercial plane to seize a prominent covering from the very beginning who decide to immigrate into any region,” he said. opposition journalist, sparking outrage internationally. of cinematic history to the present country.” Similarly, Tasfia Bashar (’18) day,” Montserrat said. Montserrat emphasized that noted that the class challenged her This elective was originally ideas discussed in the class can ap- to think differently about films created five years ago for stu- ply to current events. “This is go- and the process of making them. The European Union reopened its borders to fully vaccinated dents who finished the AP Span- ing to benefit them because they “For one thing, it made me reflect visitors from countries considered coronavirus safe. ish course but wanted to continue watch movies that touch on topics a lot on the ways in which history studying the language in their next including immigration, social jus- impacts the media and the depic- year. “We thought that Stuyvesant tice, politics, and social relations,” tion of culture on screen. It devel- needed a fourth year of elective she said. “Through a movie [...] ops your analytical skills by allow- An Israel-Hamas cease-fire began on May 20 after 11 days of understanding a language and how ing you to see how different parts because a lot of students finish the fighting with more than 240 deaths. Spanish AP and they want to con- a country works makes you a bet- of filmmaking are crucial to the tinue taking and studying Span- ter student, person, and scholar.” creation of the final piece,” she ish,” Montserrat said. This year, The class includes projects said in an e-mail interview. those who have taken Spanish III and discussions that align with the She also noted the relevance New York Attorney General Letitia James joined the criminal will be eligible to take the elective. films watched. Some notable films of Spanish Cinema/Great Films Montserrat decided to make watched are “La Nana,” “Chico beyond high school. “Two of fraud investigation against the Trump Organization. the elective on Spanish films due y Rita,” “Mujeres al Borde de un the movies I watched during the to her passion for movies. “I love Ataque de Nervios,” and “Los class—“Women on the Verge of Que Se Quedan.” “In class, we a Nervous Breakdown” and “Pan’s movies, and I watch a lot of them Amy Cooper, who the on a birdwatch- because it makes me understand watch the films, have group dis- Labyrinth”—have come up either called police Black man better my culture, my country, and cussions, and read literature re- in conversation or in my classes at ing, sued her former employer for being terminated. the world, along with people and lated to the topics and films. We college,” Bashar said. “Also, even relationships,” she said. “What’s also have different projects. The if the workload doesn’t seem that a family and its definition in the class is mostly projects, presenta- intense, the type of discussions United States? Maybe the defini- tions, group discussions, and some you’ll be having in the class are ac- The Supreme Court will review the Mississippi Abortion tion of family in Mexico, in Spain tests about the movie topic, noth- tually college level.” Law, which could potentially overturn the verdict made by Roe and other countries are different. ing out of the ordinary,” Montser- Though Spanish Cinema/ v. Wade case. Maybe through a movie, we can rat said. Great Films was not offered this compare different families and Barnett Zhao (’18) enjoyed year, Stuyvesant graduates who stereotypes.” these projects, especially one took the elective recommend students who are interested. It’s Spanish, and learn about Latin Spanish teacher Pasqua Roccio where students had the oppor- that current students take it. “I a great way to deepen your ap- American history and politics,” noted the importance of an elec- tunity to create their own films. highly recommend this elective to preciation of film, practice your Zhao said. Weissman Hosts Discussion with Mayoral Candidate Kathryn Garcia (‘88) the city government works. Hav- wasn’t really campaigning for that mom, and we just wanted to get provided insights to her charac- continued from page 1 ing worked in it for so long [...] policy,” junior Cadence Li said. the bigger scope of the mayoral ter. “She felt kind of casual, more she has already done things with Some also expressed surprise candidates, and we wanted to see like your teacher than a politician Deal for public housing, and in- the waste management that was at the direction of her policies who all the options were and who running for mayor of New York,” troducing green roofs for every positive,” social studies teacher and would have liked further elab- seemed good and who didn’t, so Li said. “Looking back on it, that school. Dr. Zachary Berman said. oration. “I remember being kind I just thought it would be a good kind of speaks more of her char- Attendees were aware of her Regarding education, she of surprised that she wanted a lot- thing to go to for more informa- acter than her policies. She doesn’t experience in public service and plans to end middle school test tery program [...] especially since tion,” sophomore Lavender Reyn- rely on pure speaking skills, and responded favorably to the fea- screenings permanently and take she’s a product of the Gifted & olds said. she has experience and plans for sibility and direction of her poli- away the Gifted and Talented Talented program since she came The discussion allowed at- her policies moving forward.” cies. “I was impressed by her Hanna added, “Garcia was experience running the Depart- pretty down-to-earth. This was ment of Environmental Protec- what struck me most. The con- tion and Sanitation Department trast with some of the better in the Bloomberg and De Blasio “Garcia is a good example for Stuyvesant students, and known candidates (Adams, Yang, administrations. She impressed Wiley) was pretty pronounced [...] me with her discussion about in particular young women. It made an impression on They all sound like they’re selling reorienting the city towards re- something. She sounded more like newable energy, building green me when she said that ‘Our city is nearly 400 years old, a manager, which I guess is what infrastructure, and protecting the she is.” coastline,” social studies teacher and we’ve never had a female mayor,’” —David Hanna, If elected, many believe that Robert Sandler said in an e-mail Garcia could be a role model. interview. “Garcia also knows social studies teacher “Garcia is a good example for how the vast city bureaucracy Stuyvesant students, and in par- works—she was interim chair ticular young women. It made an of NYCHA—she’s a real New impression on me when she said Yorker and she’s a pragmatist.” program. However, she does not to Stuyvesant,” Li said. “I thought tendees to learn more about that ‘Our city is nearly 400 years Garcia’s transportation poli- plan on abolishing the SHSAT, a that she would [...] maybe be hesi- Garcia and her policies. “I didn’t old, and we’ve never had a female cies, which aligned with her cli- major point of contention among tant to abolish it. I would’ve ap- know much about Garcia before mayor,’” Hanna said. mate change policies, struck a school administrators and public preciated it if someone asked her the talk except that she was the Ultimately, attendees left the chord for other attendees. Some officials. “Kathryn Garcia did say to go more in depth about how a sanitation commissioner, a Stuy discussion with a positive out- of her policies include expanding that Stuyvesant was one of the lottery program would necessarily alum, and that the [New York] look on Garcia. “After the talk, the bike lane network by 250 miles most stressful experiences she had function better than some sort of Times and [the New York] Daily I felt like she definitely felt like a and electrifying 10,000 school ever been in, and that sort of pre- revamping of the K-8 program.” News had endorsed her. If I saw very solid candidate. She felt very buses. “I’m really into transpor- pared you for the real world, but I Overall, the discussion pre- her on the street, I don’t think I’d educated and well informed and I tation policy [...] and I think she do understand that it’s an unpop- sented an opportunity to learn recognize her,” social studies Da- thought that her policies lined up knows the ins and outs on how ular opinion to preserve the spe- more about the mayoral race and vid Hanna said. with what I would want in a can- cialized high school system, so she local politics. “[I] went with my Moreover, Garcia’s discussion didate,” Reynolds said. The Spectator• June 1, 2021 Page 3 Advertisement

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FALL, SPRING, AND SUMMER PROGRAMS Register for Classes at www.KwellerPrep.com O ce: 1 (800) 631-1757 Email: [email protected] Page 4 The Spectator• June 1, 2021 Endorsements: Senior Caucus SENIOR CAUCUS: CYNTHIA TAN AND ELIO TORRES By KENISHA MAHAJAN and RECORD: Having served the past two years together as president MAYA NELSON and vice president, Tan and Torres have an incomparable amount of experience under their belt. However, while they performed adequately After serving as Junior Caucus in-person, there has been a growing disconnect between the caucus and president and vice president over the students over the remote year due to a lack of transparency and com- past year, Cynthia Tan and Elio Tor- munication with the student body, leaving many unaware of the events res are back for their final election, and resources they have worked on. running uncontested for Senior Cau- cus. Aiming to make senior year fun CAMPAIGN: The two have an amicable dynamic. They emphasize the and stress-free, their ticket is centered importance of communication and trust, and their personal connection around addressing student concerns as friends only strengthens their professional relationship. The Tan-Tor- regarding the college admissions res ticket also prioritizes organization, efficiency, and direct communica- process, planning for senior events, tion within their caucus. advocating for additional electives, and tackling students’ mental health TheSasha Socolow/ Spectator PLATFORM: The Tan-Torres ticket plans to focus on college readi- concerns. With experience, prepara- available in a college calendar pro- health. While Tan and Torres cite ness and senior events, along with an emphasis on alternatives and tion, and an amicable dynamic, it is vided to students. poor mental health as a large prob- backup plans, many of which take into account COVID-19 regulations likely that their ideas will become a Where the Tan-Torres platform lem at Stuyvesant, their plans to rem- and administrative limitations. Their extensive experience in event plan- reality. shines is in their plans for senior- edy the issue seem fairly standard. With the hectic college applica- ning enables them to expand on existing senior traditions while starting specific events. In addition to senior The two are currently working with some of their own. Their college preparedness initiatives are a linear tion process in senior year, Tan and prom, senior sunrise, and graduation, representatives from other special- Torres plan on implementing a vari- progression of their policies from this past year but lack specificity to Tan and Torres plan to have a home- ized high schools on a mental health the senior college application process. ety of events and resources to make coming dance in the fall in order to manual that dissects mental illnesses the season more seamless. Priorities and provides tips on improving men- bolster school spirit. Additionally, ognize their unique position to ad- comes to senior events, but they lack of theirs are making sure all of these tal health. They also plan on hosting they hope to hold a summer kickoff vocate for the students’ wants and concrete solutions that address stu- resources are digestible and working mediation and yoga events for stu- in the coming months due to the lack needs, which includes bridging the dents’ mental health and the return in conjunction with the college of- dents to destress and relax. While this of a junior prom this year. The two parent-student gap by advocating for to in-person. Even so, with their ex- fice to centralize college resources proposal seems helpful, a plethora of plan to host smaller initiatives,like a the student voice to parents and the perience as caucus leaders over the and host informative events. These similar resources are already available “Nostalgia Day” for seniors involv- administration and fighting for more last three years and their strong ties opportunities will include college es- to students. Additionally, students ing childhood shows and snacks or lenient policies toward students to with administrators in school and ex- say workshops, senior advice events, have reported a lack of communica- a photo booth near the senior bar to facilitate the return to in-person ternal organizations, the Tan-Torres a How-To-College series, and schol- tion from the caucus, leaving many foster a sense of community. learning. Senior Caucus has both the plans for arship resources. All of these materi- unaware of the resources that exist, However, the Tan-Torres ticket Overall, Tan and Torres prom- and the capabilities to execute their als, along with application deadlines, furthering their ineffectiveness. lacks a comprehensive plan to ad- ise an enjoyable senior year when it plans for the coming school year. open houses, and more, will be easily dress students’ struggles with mental However, Tan and Torres rec- Endorsements: Junior Caucus JUNIOR CAUCUS: DANIEL JUNG AND ANDREY SOKOLOV By MATT MELUCCI and SAM RECORD: Together, the Jung-Sokolov ticket has concrete experience LEVINE in student government. The pair ran for Freshman Caucus back in 2019, and while their ticket did not win, Jung became president of Sophomore Running uncontested for Ju- Caucus the next year after running. Jung and next year’s SU Vice Presi- nior Caucus co-presidents this year, dent Ryan Lee appointed Sokolov as their Chief of Staff in the process. Daniel Jung and Andrey Sokolov Their long-term experience as a duo should facilitate their plans in Junior have promised to improve school Caucus as they have worked with each other for the past year and learned life for “junies” (a play on the term the ropes of student government. “freshies”) as they return to school in the fall. The platform emphasizes CAMPAIGN: Jung and Sokolov have set up an Instagram account that the importance of alleviating the has gathered plenty of followers, with engagement on each post. On it, stress of junior year, as well as that there is a platform document and a “JUNIES Suggestion Form” through of a return to in-person learning. which juniors can make comments and suggestions for the two to imple- One of Jung and Sokolov’s main ment next year. The pair has solid chemistry as Jung and Sokolov clearly policy ideas centers around increased TheSasha Socolow/ Spectator work well together. They are both in agreement in regard to their plans college readiness events, including ate some of the stress that they have school but haven’t yet developed suf- and ideas and are working to achieve the same end of reducing stress for ACT and SAT practice sessions, as alluded to in junior year—a notable ficient originality to make their event the junior student body next year. well as their favorite idea, “So You achievement if successfully imple- proposals substantial. Want To Major In,” a continuation mented. Overall, the Jung-Sokolov ticket PLATFORM: The Jung-Sokolov platform revolves around keep- of the “So You Want To Be A…” As for returning to school in the is fairly strong and a more-than-vi- ing juniors updated and alleviating the stress of junior year. Their plan series implemented this year. While fall, Jung and Sokolov lack specific able pair to become Junior Caucus includes increased social media presence to better connect with students, similar ideas have been proposed ideas on creating a smooth transi- co-presidents. Jung’s experience as as well as holding online events to address junior year struggles. However, and executed before, these ideas are tion back into the school building. Sophomore Caucus president has many of their ideas have been either done or attempted before, such as substantial and achievable and will However, they intend on using social taught him the lay of the land, mak- the umbrella borrowing program, but they do show an ability to get their be beneficial to the student body. media, such as Instagram, Snapchat, ing him well-prepared to hold the Ju- proposals done. Jung and Sokolov also expressed an and TikTok, to spread various im- nior Caucus position, and Sokolov’s interest in developing closer ties to portant messages, which may help experience as Chief of Staff has dynamic, their experience working as good sign of things to come for Jung the college office, which, while po- juniors. Jung and Sokolov also men- exposed him to the inner workings a duo will also surely benefit them, a and Sokolov this year. tentially difficult, could help allevi- tion ideas for events upon a return to of a caucus. Clear from their strong Endorsements: Sophomore Caucus WILSON LIN AND ETHAN KHOSH By KELLY YIP, SONYA SASSON, and GERARD LIN RECORD: The pair has limited experience in student government. Lin had led club activi- ties in middle school while Khosh does not have any notable leadership experience. Wilson Lin and Ethan Khosh are a new pair in the world of student CAMPAIGN: Lin and Khosh have an active Facebook page and an Instagram account government. Built on their three te- where they share details about their platform. However, Lin and Khosh seem to lack sig- nets of trust, teamwork, and trans- nificant chemistry, though it is important to note that the interview was over Zoom. parency, the Lin-Khosh platform aims to forge a seamless connection PLATFORM: With their tenets of trust, teamwork, and transparency, the Lin-Khosh between the student body and the ticket emphasizes the importance of feedback and cohesion to unite the student body. administration, believing that the However, their student-oriented policies of academic help and periodic check-ins seem to current caucus needs a “fresh face.” be redundant with existing organizations in place. As Lin is a remote learner and Khosh Eliza Oppenheimer/ The Spectator is blended, they believe that they can their building and “hall monitors,” From game and movie nights to icy. Additionally, many of their event plan. Leading the Sophomore Caucus implement the best of both worlds where upperclassmen will serve as bake sales and holiday specials, Lin ideas have already been implemented demands experience—something the under their leadership. “guides” to help students navigate and Khosh presented a variety of by previous caucuses. Though well- team does not have much of. Lin and Lin and Khosh plan to unite through the school. Regarding the plausible ideas that would help the intentioned, their ideas lack practical- Khosh also lacked chemistry during the student body by prioritizing in- “hall monitors” proposal, it is unlike- student body bond and have fun. ity that may hinder their ability to lead their interview, sometimes present- person meetings and streaming them ly that upperclassmen would willingly They also took into consideration with ambition. A lack of originality ing conflicting solutions to certain over Zoom for those remote while stand in the hallways as ready guides the mental health issues among the that is evident in some other policies problems, such as how they plan to hosting remote ones as well. The for lost students, especially when un- student body through their “Mind- is most apparent in their proposed familiarize remote students with the team recognizes that much of the derclassmen can ask upperclassmen ful Moments” idea, where students academic help and periodic check-ins Stuyvesant building. Though their freshman body has never physically that happen to walk by anyway. Lin would be given designated times to idea, which are redundant with the platform is cohesive and detailed, stepped into the Stuyvesant build- recognized this and suggested cre- destress through methods like medi- existing AIS and ARISTA tutoring The Spectator ultimately does not ing, thus creating a disconnect. To ating maps instead, but this idea is tation, stress balls, and screaming. and guidance check-ins, respectively. endorse this ticket as another ticket address this, they propose holding still in its beginning stages and lacks However, it remains unclear as to Assuming office at this tumul- would be better suited to lead the events to familiarize students with fleshed-out planning. how they would implement this pol- tuous time will require more than a sophomore body. The Spectator• June 1, 2021 Page 5 Endorsements: Sophomore Caucus SOPHOMORE CAUCUS: AMANDA CISSE AND MARGARET MIKHALEVSKY By CLARA SHAPIRO and JARED MOSER RECORD: The Cisse-Mikhalevsky duo has more than sufficient expe- rience to serve the student body. Cisse is the current Chief of Staff for Cisse and Mikhalevsky’s four- Freshman Caucus and is a co-leader of the Youth Branch for mayoral pillar platform is exactly what rising candidate Dianne Morales. Mikhalevsky serves as the co-vice president sophomores need to make the transi- of Spectrum, Stuyvesant’s club for LGBTQ+ students, and held a lead- tion from fully remote to in-person ership position in middle school working on the yearbook committee. learning. Perhaps the largest aspect of their campaign is an extensive CAMPAIGN: Cisse, Mikhalevsky, and their campaign managers are a academic plan that will help the cur- close-knit group of friends who are enthusiastic about serving the stu- rent freshmen adjust to in-person dent body. The team has put together a website that outlines the central school next year. One proposed idea tenets and plans of their platform. Beyond the concrete pillars of their was to continue the practice of using platform, Cisse and Mikhalevsky have the advantage of a strong friend- Google Classroom to organize and ship outside of their work for the Student Union. Cisse and Mikha- archive lessons and work, making it levsky speak as a united, cohesive voice––the reply of one always leaves easier for students as well as teachers room for the other to add on. to stay up to date. Come AP season,

Cisse and Mikhalevsky will organize Eliza Oppenheimer/ The Spectator PLATFORM: The Cisse-Mikhalevsky duo has compiled a strong and week-by-week study schedules and year was Google Hangouts. Cisse movements. They will also work with comprehensive platform. The ticket is grounded on four “bases”––ad- caucus-organized practice tests. and Mikhalevksy also proposed some the English department to increase vocacy, growth, teamwork, and community. For each of these bases, Cisse and Mikhalevsky have also more standard-issue bonding ideas the diversity of authors represented Cisse and Mikhalevsky have specific and ambitious plans, particularly come prepared to confront the social such as a themed sophomore dance in required readings. The pair intends regarding how to transition the rising sophomore class smoothly from challenges of the transition from on- and a picnic day. to support both RISE and Stuy Prep, online to in-person. line to in-person school. This is rele- Another major aspect of Cisse which are organizations that help stu- vant particularly for a freshman class and Mikhalevsky’s platform is inclu- dents from underrepresented back- ficult year. Cisse’s position this past respective leadership experience is that has never been in the building. sion. Even though they have spent grounds prepare for the SHSAT and year as Chief of Staff guarantees a that they are friends, and will enjoy In the fall, Mikhalevsky and Cisse little time inside the building, Cisse admission to Stuyvesant. leader who is already deeply famil- a friendly and collaborative partner- hope to create a map of the build- and Mikhalevsky have already had These plans are ambitious and iar and committed to Stuyvesant’s ship. ing to aid freshmen and sophomores firsthand experience with microag- feasible. Cisse’s and Mikhalevsky’s student government; Mikhalevsky’s As Cisse and Mikhalevsky’s plat- in locating spots around the 10-story gressions at Stuyvesant. To promote extensive prior experience, as well as experience leading Stuy Spectrum form is just what the freshmen need structure. The map will also highlight awareness, Cisse and Mikhalevsky their collaborative dynamic, makes grants her experience both in lead- to stay afloat amid the challenges of major sophomore “hangout spots,” plan to bring in guest speakers to them optimal candidates for carrying ership and in coordinating. Equally their sophomore year, The Spectator a helpful feature for a grade whose speak on the current social justice out a difficult job in a particularly dif- important to Cisse and Mikhalevsky’s endorses this ticket. closest thing to a “hangout” this past WILLIAM TANG AND ESHAAL UBAID RECORD: William Tang and Eshaal Ubaid have both garnered significant student government experience. The pair founded Be A Leader, a leadership club aimed at helping their fellow students gain leadership skills and increase their self-confidence. At Stuyvesant, Tang and Ubaid were both on the Events Committee of Freshman Caucus.

Sasha Socolow / The Spectator Sasha Socolow / The CAMPAIGN: Tang and Ubaid have a good rapport and complement each other both professionally and personally. They are both well-spoken, elaborating on each other’s points with few pauses or breaks. Their confidence in their abilities is evident and present themselves as very capable leaders.

PLATFORM: The policies in their platform draw inspiration from their previous student government experience and deviate significantly from that of other caucuses. As previous members of the Events Committee of Freshman Caucus, they hope to use their knowledge of the inner mechanics of a caucus to implement cabinet reformation. This indicates a larger trend of their platform, in which they focus ambitiously on structural, administrative changes rather than community events, which was the focus of many caucuses this year. Julia Lee / The Spectator Julia By JENNY LIU and cord to send updates and other rel- movement Fridays for Future. Their A standout point in their policies the problem in student government: FRANCESCA NEMATI evant information, and an advice vision for the eco-friendly initiative is their focus on internal, structural general unresponsiveness and apathy column as part of a periodical news- involves ongoing collaboration with change such as cabinet reformation. among the student population. They The three pillars of the Tang- letter. All are well-intentioned and re- the Environmental Club. While inter- They hope to shed more light on the plan on enacting systemic change in Ubaid ticket are adaptability, inclusiv- alistic. They will still focus on online esting, this lacks details in their plat- individual members and departments how caucuses are structured in order ity, and innovation. They are cogni- interaction, as they believe it provides form. Ubaid is serving as the assistant to improve public perception, using to target the problem directly. This zant of the importance of the former the foundation for in-person engage- art director for SophFrosh SING! them directly as forms of commu- means reaching out to the sopho- two, as their class—one that has yet ment. Further elaboration on in-per- 2021 and helped design the logo for nication to interact with the rest of more body through different plat- to step foot into the school building son engagement would have helped their ticket. They believe merchan- the sophomore body. Internally, they forms, including everyone in updates, collectively—transitions to in-person their platform, though. dise will encourage engagement and hope to create a sense of community and working within the boundaries learning in the upcoming school year. Innovation was displayed through school spirit. They hope to collabo- and accountability through work par- of what can realistically be done. Major initiatives to supplement the multiple initiatives such as promoting rate with the Internal Affairs Depart- ties and record-keeping (think min- They know the limitations they will transition include a Contact Masterl- eco-friendly culture and merchandise, ment, the Student Union as a whole, utes but made public). undoubtedly encounter, but they are ist for easier communication among both of which draw on Tang and and art teachers to help promote this. All of this demonstrates a will- also creative problem solvers and can the sophomore body, utilizing other Ubaid’s passions, respectively. Tang While not entirely necessary, this is a ingness to be transparent and tackle meet their goals without overextend- social media platforms such as Dis- is part of the global climate strike feasible and supportive policy. what they believe to be the root of ing their limitations. UNIQUE ZHANG AND ALEKSEY OLKHOVENKO By MOMOCA MAIRAJ and RUIWEN TANG RECORD: Having served as co-presidents of Freshman Caucus, the pair worked closely with the other caucuses, the Student Union (SU), The Zhang-Olkhovenko ticket the administration, and even other high schools. They hosted several runs on a platform with five pil- events during their tenure, such as a highly attended talent show, though lars—growth, unity, initiative, dedi- their study hall sessions were less successful. Due to the challenge of cation, and empathy—emphasizing remote learning, their willingness to accept feedback and create possible the importance of supporting the improvements in this year’s platform is commendable. incoming sophomores during their first year in-person. Despite the CAMPAIGN: Zhang and Olkhovenko have a strong dynamic, given pair’s experience and chemistry, the their friendship since middle school and close collaboration as Freshman ticket exhibits a lack of original ideas Caucus co-presidents. The ticket has a well-organized social media pres- and some unnecessary proposals. ence with a sizable following that introduces their team and summarizes One of their priorities is the their policies. LifeStuyle, which is an elaborate map and guide of the Stuyvesant build- PLATFORM: Both Zhang and Olkhovenko demonstrate capability in ing and surrounding areas. It entails bringing their ideas to fruition and continuity from their time in Fresh- a bird’s eye view of Stuyvesant of man Caucus, with a focus on transitioning sophomores to in-person features of the building, as well as a learning and advocating for mental health. However, some proposals are newsletter-style document with non- unoriginal, unnecessary, or may struggle to gain traction among sopho- Courtesy of Unique Zhang and Aleksey Olkhovenko mores. academic knowledge for students, the path to their classes after the movie/game nights. While many such as the best restaurants near the first few weeks. Additionally, the pair of these ideas are feasible, they lack building. This is their strongest idea, members, alumni, and Principal Yu, is unclear how this club distinguishes proposes the Homeroom Buddies originality as they have been hosted which could increase communica- itself. as such a guide could benefit sopho- initiative, where SU members would by past caucuses. They also plan to mores in their first year in person. tion among Stuyvesant. Overall, Zhang and Olkhovenko join homeroom meetings to teach expand the talent show hosted this In light of the mental health have a strong background of experi- Zhang and Olkhovenko also pro- students about the SU. However, it is year—Stuyvesant’s Got Talent—to posed the Hallway Helpers initiative discussion this year, Zhang and ence and established relationships as questionable how necessary or help- an in-person format. While their vir- Olkhovenko also wish to introduce co-presidents, with exuding enthusi- to support rising sophomores, with ful this SU-centric policy would be tual study sessions were unsuccess- upperclassmen volunteers—either a new club called StuyTherapy for asm and excellent chemistry to carry for sophomores. ful this year due to low turnout, they students to participate in destressing out their proposed policies. Unfor- SU members or willing students— In addition to aiding sopho- plan to improve on their sessions stationed to direct lost students in activities, such as ranting and ripping tunately, their lack of new ideas and mores, the Zhang-Olkhovenko by planning them further ahead of up paper. However, there are several ideas that would expend more effort between classes. Though this idea ticket hopes to host events, such time with ARISTA and the SU. The may help some on the first days of clubs that already focus on mental on part of the SU than would reap as the Snowball—a winter dance pair also proposed starting a podcast health at Stuyvesant, such as Project benefits for the Stuyvesant commu- school, it is unnecessary in the long- in the school gym—meme day and featuring cabinet meeting recaps, SU term as students typically memorize Love and the Wellness Council, so it nity. Page 6 The Spectator• June 1, 2021 News Stuyvesant Continues Building Renovations Amid Remote Instruction es faster.” immediately should you see or hear design needed to be modified,” able to run in the new lab, expos- continued from page 1 Zhen expressed similar enthu- something wrong.” Scott said. “Because of the pan- ing all of the students who take the siasm. “I can’t express how excited demic, the contractors could not classes to [state-of-art] equipment.” The new escalators are planned I am for September,” he said. “I Robotics Lab get into the school building to start Students on the robotics team to be fully functioning for the up- look forward to being able to get The new Robotics lab was de- construction until September of express enthusiasm for the ad- coming school year. “The 13 esca- to class quicker and not having to signed and developed by Stuyves- 2020.” ditional space and new technol- lators are being replaced and [the blame the escalators for my late- ant teachers and external engineers. The lab will be furnished with ogy to aid in their work. “It’ll be company is] currently working on ness.” “I worked with [technology teach- an array of new equipment. “The super helpful to have a space for the final set of escalators, with an Teachers are hopeful that the er] Mr. [Joseph] Blay, our Robotics lab will have a metal printer, a fi- robotics again. When we were still estimated completion date of June new renovations will mitigate in person, we had to share the in- 2021,” Moran said. trouble for students as they move novation lab with both Sci[ence] Stuyvesant’s old escalators of- through the building. “I’m really Olympiad and the FTC teams, or ten broke down throughout the excited for the renovations and utilize the ceramics lab. The space school day, especially during the once all escalators work, students that was available to us drastically few minutes students had to travel will comfortably move around the decreased,” junior Michelle Zhang between their classes. “I’ve had a school at [a] much faster pace and said in an e-mail interview. “The tough relationship with Stuy’s esca- not worry about being late to their new lab would also provide us with lators as they almost never worked next class,” music teacher Liliya space for a lot of our new machines when I needed them to, and as a re- Shamazov said in an e-mail inter- [...] Most importantly, we’re getting view. an enormous amount of space to sult, I would have to rush through Spectator Sasha Socolow / The several flights of stairs,” junior Jun- Many also acknowledge the work in, which I’m really looking hao Zhen said. ease that students will have with forward to.” This was especially inconve- the new escalators. “The renovated nient due to the number of floors escalators will make it easier, faster, In addition to these renova- in the Stuyvesant building. “I had and safer for both teachers and stu- tions, Stuyvesant is planning for to do more walking up and down dents to move around the building, more projects in the future. “We the stairs [because of the escala- which will ultimately lead to more have discussed the idea of building tors]; my second semester of fresh- productive school/work days and a new recording studio in Room man year I had to go from the 10th cause less stress in between class 154, a new photocopy room in to the third to the ninth to the first periods,” social studies teacher Room 253, a new environmental [floor] which was really annoying,” Svetlana Firdman said in an e-mail Coach, (and Mr. Kunicki, another ber printer, and an FDM printer lab in Rooms 336 and 338, a new sophomore Maya Brosnick said in interview. coach who works with the team) to along with several other pieces of weight room in Room 580, and an e-mail interview. To keep the escalators in good develop a design concept for the fabrication equipment,” Scott said. a nano lab with a [cleanroom] in Teachers faced this hindrance condition and ensure students’ Robotics Lab, and then the EME “The students will be able to print Room 909 along with the idea of as well. “Our school is very tall and safety, students are expected to fol- Group (Architectural Consulting objects in stainless steel, titanium, creating an observation desk with going more than three stories be- low the standard rules in riding the Engineers who work with the Di- copper, carbon-fiber, and pc-abs new classroom space on the balco- tween classrooms is a lot. On top escalators. “Never sit or face [back- vision of School Facilities) devel- (to name a few).” ny outside the cafeteria on the 5th of this, the lower stairwells can ward] while riding the escalator, oped the design plans for the lab,” Many see potential in the use of floor,” Scott said. get very congested,” social studies never place bags or loose clothing Assistant Principal of Chemistry & the new lab, especially for the ro- These new additions are hoped teacher David Hanna said in an e- on or near the steps or on the rail- Physics Thomas Scott said in an e- botics team. “Once the renovation to be an aspect of Stuyvesant to mail interview. ings, never stand in the middle of mail interview. is done, it will be immensely helpful look forward to in the upcoming In facing fewer of these issues the step, never slide on the railing, Initially, the lab was intended to for students and staff. The students school year. “This should be an in the upcoming school year, stu- or jump off the escalator, never be complete by the start of 2020, who are on the robotics teams will exciting September for students dents are positive about its replace- [overcrowd] the escalator,” Moran but the date was postponed due to have a new space to work in that for many reasons but having state ment. “I’m very excited. I didn’t said. “Maintain your distance to the technicalities. “The original plan will finally be big enough to house of the art escalators which actually really expect them to get done for person in front and behind, never was to finish the Robotics Lab by us and everything that we do,” Blay work should make traveling from years,” Brosnik said. “Hopefully it attempt to travel up a down escala- January of 2020, but the project said in an e-mail interview. “In ad- class to class much easier for stu- will allow [students] to get to class- tor, and inform the administration was delayed because the HVAC dition, the robotics classes will be dents,” Moran said. NYCDOE Declares Remote Instructional Days During Snow Days By DERRICK LIN, JOSHUA or synchronous),” Principal Seung from one of the breaks,” sopho- said. “And also that our teachers on our regular Stuyvesant schedule WONG, MOZEN KALEFA, and Yu said. “We’re examining what more Anjini Katari said. “It does have lessons and curriculum that with 41-minute periods and four REBECCA BAO next school year will look like and make me kind of sad, though, can be accomplished whether we minutes passing, that schedule how we take some of the benefits because now you have to go to are at school or not.” doesn’t lend itself to Zoom classes With the release of the 2021- of remote learning into consider- school no matter what. It [used to Furthermore, others had [...] It’s a little bit harder to transi- 2022 school year calendar on May ation.” be] something to look forward to, a hoped to avoid remote learning in tion while being in the building.” 4, the New York City Department In the past, snow days were possibility of a snow day.” the upcoming school year. “I don’t Students and teachers alike of Education (DOE) announced seen as memorable days off from Others also questioned the think anyone wants to do remote may also continue to face the cur- that instruction will resume re- school for students. “Usually there feasibility of switching to remote learning anymore. The fact that rent issues present with remote motely on snow days and Election would be a lot of snow right in learning, given the spontaneity of I still have to have Zoom on my instruction, such as technological Day instead of a day off. front of our house because no- snow days. “Snow days are espe- computer, even after the pandemic problems. “If we go back to the Administrators believe that body put salt there and I didn’t cially rough for families facing fi- is over, it just seems so stupid,” 41-minute period classes [and] the past year of remote learning have to shovel it either because it’s nancial hardship; no heating, plus Mazumder said. to transfer that directly into a re- influenced the DOE’s decision to an apartment building,” freshman parents worrying about work in- The news mote day, you’re just not going to continue education on snow days. Arshia Mazumder said. “So a lot of conveniences, make it very difficult has get through what you wanted to,” “Prior to remote learning, there the time we’d do the typical snow for poor kids to focus on syn- Huhn said. “There’s going to be was no way we were equipped to angels, snowmen, [and] sometimes chronized classes,” Yasna students who are lagging, who just ‘go remote’ in bad weather,” we’d go to the nearby park and go said. are coming into the Zoom Director of Family Engagement sledding.” Sophomore Wenjia class late.” Dina Ingram said in an e-mail in- Others also saw snow days as Lu agreed, adding the In addition to teaching, terview. “This policy enables all an opportunity to spend more time unpredictability of Ingram also acknowledged employees to be working instead with their families. “I normally a sudden transition that remote learning would of getting a paid day off for in- don’t get to spend much time with from in-person learn- present further challenges clement weather. It’s a good busi- my family because they both work ing to remote. “Snow days for teachers. “Homeown- ness decision for the DOE in that long hours in service jobs, so I saw don’t happen more than ers are still responsible for respect, obviously. It’s also ‘good’ snow days as good bonding time a few days per year, clearing snow from walkways instructionally because students do as well as an opportunity to catch so why not just let and digging out their car,” she not miss classes—they take them up on work,” sophomore Sanjana the students take said. “Some like me, have el- at home.” Yasna said in an e-mail interview. the day off?” she derly parents we would want English teacher Heather Huhn Snow days also served as a pe- said in an e-mail to assist before dark at their believed that classes during snow riod of rest from the rush of the interview. “Not homes, or before they would days were to compensate for the school schedule for teachers alike. to mention re- try to do so themselves and loss of learning time due to the “I would often spend them catch- mote learning risk injury; so this new poli- pandemic. “The DOE wants to ing up on work,” Huhn said. “So would probably cy prevents it or pushes it to make sure that the students are maybe sleeping in a little bit and be ineffective late in the day/evening.” learning at every given opportunity then catching up on papers I need- [anyway], since The new circumstances and and at every given moment and es- ed to grade, or making sure that my we would be raised policies being put in place have pecially because it’s perceived that lessons were okay for the next day, having in-per- numer- made both students and teachers so much learning was lost over moving forward. I really viewed son education ous con- alike develop a new sense of ap- this pandemic,” she said. “It sent them as a breath of fresh air or an by then and suddenly Emily Lu / The Spectator cerns from teach- preciation toward past snow days. the message to the DOE that it’s exhale.” transitioning to online class ers, who may face “It kind of made me appreci- possible, so therefore we [would] While many students under- just for a day would be hectic.” logistical challenges in a limited ate snow days more,” Katari said. necessarily take days when at home stand that issuing remote learning Adaptability may pose a chal- amount of time. “Teachers won’t “Remembering that time where and use them productively.” on school days allows for more lenge to a sudden switch to remote necessarily have a Zoom link set we had snow days, where we were As of now, the administration educational time, they are disap- learning. “The only issues we have up if they are teaching every day in able to take a day off and enjoy the is uncertain of the scheduling dur- pointed by the change. “It makes at Stuyvesant to face are ensuring class, so trying to scramble and get snow just because we couldn’t use ing remote snow days, “Snow days sense from an administrative point that students always have internet all that set up for just one day will the roads. I definitely have a higher are now expected to be instruc- of view because [...] if you had a and computer access to go remote be a bit of a pain,” math teacher regard for them, [because] before I tional in some form (asynchronous snow day, you would take a day off at will (as well as teachers),” Ingram Brian Sterr said. “If we are back took them for granted.” The Spectator• June 1, 2021 Page 7 News

Innocence Project Exonoree Huwe Burton Speaks to Stuyvesant

By SAMIA ISLAM, JANNA suspect; the three prosecuting de- Detectives on the case inter- said in an e-mail interview. [...] about ten years from now [...] WANG, and ZIYING JIAN tectives used coercive interroga- viewed Green and found him in Others expressed anger to- means that some of the potential Additional reporting by tion to force a false confession possession of Keziah Burton’s ward the lack of legitimate justice clients or people you’ll do cases Rajhasree Paul from Burton. Burton’s teacher car, but disregarded the evidence throughout Burton’s case. “I was on, right now, as we speak, are informed authorities that he was until they had apprehended Bur- angered by the fact that they ac- five to six years old [...] As you get Innocence Project exoneree in school at the time of the crime ton, even allegedly corroborating cused a young boy [of] murder- older, [...] some of [these five, six- Huwe Burton virtually visited the and the case’s alternate suspect with Green to falsify statements ing his mother even though they year-olds] are going to be defen- Stuyvesant community on May 7 held an extensive criminal history. regarding how Green came into knew that was not the case. I was dants, rightfully or wrongfully so.” to tell his truth. His story, char- However, it was too late when the possession of the car. “When [the angered that the guys [the detec- Burton encourages attendees acterized by betrayal, loss, and detective realized. After a con- detectives] realized it was [Green] tives] were still working, instead to vote and become more politi- regret, opened up a conversation fession, Burton was tried as an with the car, they were like, ‘Wait of being punished. I was angered cally active to combat the perpetu- regarding the anti-Blackness and adult and sentenced to 15 years in a minute. [...] This really makes us by basically everything about that ation of such injustices. “I really corruption still prevalent within case,” senior Althea Barrett said. believe in policing having a frame- the US criminal justice system. Lieberman further elaborates work of people knowing you can’t This event was coordinated by bi- on the misgivings this can reflect come into communities and do ology teacher Dr. Jeffrey Horen- on our entire justice system. “To what you want when you want it, stein, who reached out through the younger people: be aware of and how you want it without hav- the Innocence Project, a nonprof- it. Just one wrongful innocent ing to explain,” he said. “What it legal organization that works to conviction is a stain on society. It’s you can do is continue to keep exonerate wrongful convictions a whole breakdown that contrib- pressure on your politicians [...] like Burton’s through DNA test- utes to a loss of respect for insti- The district attorney is an elected tutions,” he said. position, but a lot of the time, we

ing and criminal justice reform Innocence Project The of Courtesy advocacy. Drawing on his 25 years of don’t know anything about district In addition to biology, Dr. Ho- practicing law, Lieberman also attorneys until they say, ‘This is renstein teaches Forensic Science, warns students to not antagonize the new district attorney.’” a science elective that covers crime prosecutors solely based on this Attendees took this sentiment investigation and legal processes case. “There is a misconception to heart. “Huwe [Burton] brought with a focus on principles and ap- around many people that prosecu- up an interesting point about how plications of biology, chemistry, tors are the bad guys. I think that’s change starts young. It is really and physics in a laboratory setting. very false and wrong,” Lieberman important for the young to know Dr. Horenstein reached out in said. their rights [...] and continue ask- hopes of arranging a speaker ses- Attendees also expressed ing questions [...] If people had sion with an exoneree after finding hopes for the prosecution to be pressed the detectives [of Huwe the organization’s work with DNA prison before he was released on look like fools, if we interviewed accountable. “We can [...] maybe e- Burton’s case], the truth might testing and analysis relevant to his parole in 2009. A decade later, his the actual murderer and said that mail the head of the Bronx [New have surfaced years ago,” junior class’s laboratory exercises, such case was exonerated by the Inno- he had no involvement, [instead] York Police Department] and Fatima Bagom said in an e-mail as DNA fingerprinting or blood cence Project. locking up a 16-year-old child who bring the case to his attention,” interview. analysis. He hoped that Burton’s Re-investigation into Bur- had no criminal history and didn’t junior Ellen Pehlivanian said in an Some students have expressed story would be an insightful op- ton’s case revealed that the pros- do this,” Burton said. e-mail interview. “Hopefully the interest in becoming involved portunity for Stuyvesant students ecutors who elicited Burton’s Liew Lieberman, a former detectives and any other people with the Innocence Project. “They to learn about the justice system. false confession had a history of Assistant District Attorney in involved in Mr. Burton’s wrongful have a program where students “When [the Innocence Project] employing psychologically coer- Brooklyn who was present during conviction pay for their actions can apply to be e-mail buddies suggested Huwe Burton, I was cive techniques. Burton discussed the event, found the tactics em- and Mr. Burton gets the closure with people behind bars. The way initially hesitant because he was the abusive techniques used in his ployed by the detectives shocking he deserves.” Huwe Burton finally got out was not exonerated with DNA evi- own questioning, such as isolating but highlighted that detectives’ be- While many expressed frustra- by getting his story out there. The dence. We are, after all, a Forensic Burton from his father, threaten- havior was appropriate at the time. tion for injustices within Burton’s difference between his story and Science class,” he said in an e-mail ing him with additional criminal “It may sound bad, but detectives case, others also commented on others is that there was someone interview. “But I felt differently charges, and pressuring Burton to were allowed to do that. They’re their admiration for Burton’s ad- to listen. As students we can not when I learned that his case was confess with promises of leniency. allowed to say things that aren’t vocacy. “The most common re- only gain compassion, but also the first example of someone to “[The detectives] knew [I] knew true in order to gain a confession, sponses from my students were lend them an ear,” an anonymous be cleared based solely on a sci- nothing about law [...] In my naive but I believe that law has been their admiration for Mr. Burton junior said in an e-mail interview. entific analysis of the methods 16-year-old mind, I’m thinking, ‘I changed,” he said. for his courage and his lack of bit- As injustices continue to ap- used to produce false confessions. know I didn’t commit this crime, Many attendees felt that this terness,” Dr. Horenstein said in an pear in our justice system, Bur- What better way is there to under- but [confessing] seemed to be the lack of accountability by law en- e-mail interview. ton’s story stresses the importance stand the consequences of a fail- only way I was going to get out of forcement reflects poorly on the Burton stresses that while of continuing to support organi- ing criminal justice system than to this room.’ I felt as if I couldn’t United States justice system, re- these injustices were tumultuous zations like the Innocence Project hear from someone like Mr. Bur- leave,” Burton said during the vealing disparities in how our to his life and that he hopes for and question the legality within ton?” event. systems enforce justice. “It’s so the prosecution to take account- our judicial system. “You really At the age of 16, Burton was Burton openly shared details horrific that the adults would ability, it’s also important to note have to drive home the point that wrongfully convicted for the mur- regarding the misconduct that condemn an innocent boy just to that his case is not uncommon. your elected officials have to be in der of his mother, Keziah Bur- occurred in the case and spoke avoid the consequences of their “This happened to me when I was line with change and reform, and ton, in January 1989. A neighbor’s on how Emmanuel Green, the own mistakes. It’s sad that even 16. There are 16, 17, 18-year-olds you guys have to continue to ask false accusations led authorities neighbor who accused him of today the police aren’t always en- being brought into the prison sys- questions. What happened to me to pursue him as the case’s prime the crime, is now believed to be forcing justice over their personal tem. [...] Assuming some of you happened in ’89 because no one the perpetrator of said crime. opinions,” freshman Emma Kwan [the attendees] are going into law had any questions,” Burton said. Gunder Hosts Virtual Game Night By NADA HAMEED, ELAINE ideas and we collaborated on ideas thing that might be easy to learn Sophomore Shreya Roy, a stu- drawbacks, those who participated HUANG, and MADISON KIM via e-mail and [language teacher if anybody wanted to join in [...] dent in Gunder’s French II class, thought positively of the event, es- Manuel] Ramirez also had [...] I [also] didn’t really know how to moderated the chat throughout pecially with teacher involvement. Language teacher Dylan some good ideas,” Gunder said. stream the audio of [Valorant’s] the livestream. “I heard about the “I found it quite entertaining. [...] Gunder hosted a virtual Game “So I kinda used a combination two teams at the same time [or] event after Mr. Gunder e-mailed It was exciting, and something new Night on May 12 with students of their ideas and what I thought the video,” he said. “It [would have his classes asking for a moderator. for me. I’m sure most students and faculty coming together to might be feasible to accomplish, been] really complicated to figure I, addicted to Twitch, took the of- can’t say they’ve ever watched or play popular games like Among and that’s how we came up with out so I figured for the first event fer,” she said in an e-mail interview. played video games with their Us. The event was two hours long it.” of this kind, just keep it simple.” “I overlooked the chat and made teacher before,” freshman Talin and was streamed live on Twitch The game selection was con- Spectators watched the game sure everyone was staying school- Schlachet said in an e-mail inter- for spectators to watch. The Game ducted through a student poll that live through Twitch, a video live- appropriate, even if it’s Twitch.” view. “What’s not to like about an Night was an opportunity for had been sent out earlier in the streaming service selected for its To accommodate for all par- event where you can do some of members of the Stuyvesant com- week. The top contenders were widespread use and gaming char- ticipants, Gunder faced a challenge your favorite leisure activities all munity to come together for lei- Valorant, a first-person shooter acteristics. “I wanted to choose of making the technology easily while getting to know some of sure while staying in the comfort game, and Among Us, a multiplay- something that everyone was fa- approachable to all. “There’s a lot your fellow students, and while be- of their own homes. er survival game. Gunder had ini- miliar with,” Gunder said. “I want- of teachers that don’t know this ing able to see what your teacher is Gunder, who teaches French tially decided to include both out ed to use [it] because it has some world of gaming. It’s like a mys- really like outside of school?” II and Spanish II, was inspired to of popular demand. “Valorant was fun chat features and fun things tery to them,” he said. “You need Many hope to participate again. host such an event by the teach- actually the top result. There [were] for gaming-specific things that I to buy the games, oftentimes, you “Watching Among Us made me er-student sports events that he also a ton of people in the ‘other’ could use in the future.” need to use different platforms really yearn to play, so maybe next attended as a child. “Teachers section that had put Among Us. To participate, students signed [...] I know some of the students time I’ll attend as a player rather [played] against students in [...] Based on a combination of what up through a Google Form and are recommending using Discord, than a viewer,” Roy said. “My fa- volleyball and then basketball,” people wanted to see and also what were randomly split into two [but] using Discord then requires vorite moment has to be when Mr. he said. “I was like, oh, we can do was feasible and realistic to do at groups for two rounds of the that people download Discord. Gunder, as an imposter ghost, flew something similar with gaming.” the time, I decided to do Among game. “The way that I selected the There are multiple opportunities across the map randomly closing Gunder cooperated with and Us and Valorant,” he said. students was based on the people for things to mess up.” doors. The other imposter and two received input from other staff to However, Gunder ultimately who signed up [...] I divided it into There were also technical issues players were in Electrical when Mr. host this event. “I had to talk with decided to only play Among Us two and I did [the selection] via during the live streaming and play- Gunder closed the doors on one [Director of Family Engagement to accommodate members of the random name generator,” Gunder ing itself. “The stream was some- of the players about to leave, ba- Dina] Ingram, and I also talked staff and for more simplicity in live said. Rather than a tournament- times laggy, the stream echoed, the sically sabotaging a potential kill. with [Assistant Principal of World streaming. “I had to get rid of Val- styled game, there were different Zoom had security issues in which He didn’t notice, but I could feel Languages Francesca] McAuliffe. orant because I think it was going team wins each round, with either people weren’t allowed to join,” the other imposter’s frustration And I kinda asked them for their to be too difficult for the teachers the imposter or the crewmates freshman Ivan Li said. through the screen.” to learn, so I wanted to pick some- coming out victorious. Despite some of the technical Page 8 The Spectator• June 1, 2021 News

Stuyvesant’s Response to Slavers of NY Campaign By ISABELLA JIA, MAGGIE matter is provided, including the cial capital of the world, was built research on Peter Stuyvesant fo- which then pushed me to do fur- SANSONE, and SAKURA number of people they enslaved. by people enslaved by Europeans cused mainly on his intolerance of ther research. I found the account YAMANAKA These stickers are placed on light and North Americans. The past other religions and antisemitism. mentioned in the article through Additional reporting by Nikki poles and street signs, where pe- violence and current inequality in However, knowing that he was an that research and then shared the Chen destrians can see and learn about this country are the same thread. enslaver added to her perspective information with my classes.” the history behind these names. We hope for collective justice and of him. “Learning the fact that he Sandler also acknowledges “The goal of Slavers of NY So far, stickers have been a reconciliation process.” was an enslaver definitely made that the time period in which Pe- is to expose and educate New me see him in an even more nega- ter Stuyvesant lived is important in Yorkers of the legacy of racism tive light,” Zhang said in an e-mail understanding his actions. “[Peter] and slavery of New York City. We interview. Stuyvesant must be placed in [the] want to offer a history that does A recent New York Times ar- historical context of 17th century not neglect the cruelty and atroc- ticle about Slavers of New York Atlantic Slave trade in the Carib- ity of the founding of the United included a section that mentions bean and South America, as well States of America,” co-founder that the New York City Depart- as the tobacco slave economies of Slavers of NY Ada Reso said ment of Education plans to up- of Virginia and Maryland. With in an e-mail interview. date its website to include more all his faults, he shaped early New The Slavers of New York is information on Peter Stuyvesant York,” Sandler said.

a sticker campaign and educa- Spectator Sasha Socolow / The in response to the campaign. This Moore suggested creating a tion initiative that uses stickers to information has yet to be released. section inside the school dedi- shed light on the history of street The Stuyvesant administration cated to the history of Stuyvesant names, subway stations, neighbor- also has yet to respond to the High School, which could include hoods, and other locations in New campaign. information not just about Peter York City that are named after en- Zhang is still hopeful that Stuyvesant but also the changes slavers to expose the history of the administration will address that the school has undergone slavery in NYC. Stuyvesant’s history. “I do think since its creation. “It’s not just One of the figures highlighted it would be great if Stuyves- about Peter Stuyvesant, but also in their initiative is Peter Stuyves- ant [...] could clarify what legacy about the fact that this school ant, who led the Dutch colony the school is trying to preserve was not a specialized high school of New Amsterdam in the mid- placed predominantly in Brook- A point of contention is through the name ‘Stuyvesant’ and when it first started, but it was a 1600s. Many places around the city lyn, but the organization plans to whether Stuyvesant High School’s recognize the history of the figure trade school for boys in 1901,” bear his name, including Bedford- expand throughout all five bor- name should be changed, based on it is named after,” Zhang said. Moore said. Stuyvesant, Stuyvesant Town, and oughs. To increase awareness, Sla- Peter Stuyvesant’s status as an en- Other teachers such as social Stuzin encourages their stu- Stuyvesant High School. Stuyves- vers of New York has a Twitter slaver. Social studies teacher Mor- studies teacher Robert Sandler dents to speak up about such ant High School’s original building and Instagram account dedicated decai Moore believes that chang- make an effort to highlight Pe- issues. “I believe firmly in the was initially located roughly south to spreading more historical infor- ing the name of the school is not ter Stuyvesant in their classes. “I power of the students. Students of the land that Peter Stuyvesant mation and data to educate people necessary. “Names can involve teach about [Peter] Stuyvesant’s in my class know I urge them to owned, called the Bouwerie, hence about the history of slavery in multiple meanings and connota- bigotry [and] the centrality of organize, use their voices, and why it is named after him. New York. “We also hope to build tions. Over the last 120 years since slavery in colonial New York in harness their collective power to The campaign was started by an interactive map, website, and 1901, [Stuyvesant has] developed my elective NYC History course. fight to make change,” they said. Reso and Elsa Eli Waithe, who maybe an app that allows almost a very different meaning, so there- I lead my class on a walking tour “Schools exist to serve students. were both inspired by The New anyone to experience the city as a fore, I don’t think that the school of downtown Manhattan that ex- Sometimes, we lose sight of that. York Times’s 1619 Project, a living history museum,” Reso said. should drop the name Stuyvesant plores historic landmarks from My students know I stand behind long-form journalism project de- Through these efforts, the or change it to another historical early New York,” Sandler said in them in their fight for power in veloped by Pulitzer Prize-winning campaign hopes that people can figure’s name,” Moore said. an e-mail interview. their education,” they said. journalist Nikole Hannah-Jones learn about the past and grow In Moore’s AP United States Similarly, English teacher Lau- Ultimately, Slavers of NY to highlight the consequences of through education. “We hope History class, students are as- ren Stuzin has discussed Peter hopes to inspire others and en- slavery and the contributions of to inspire other movements to signed a project called a Statues Stuyvesant and his history with courages everyone, including stu- Black Americans in American his- decolonize space and place. We and Monuments Scrapbook, a their classes. “I first found out that dents, to participate in this move- tory. hope that the people of each project in which they research [Peter Stuyvesant] was disabled ment. “We encourage you all to They created stickers imitating street, neighborhood, borough, public monuments and their his- and began to think about the po- continue to dream of and act [to- the style of a NYC street sign with and city in the state of New York tories. This work has encouraged tential ableism of the Stuyvesant ward] the future you want to see,” the names of past enslavers as cur- remember how this country was many students to become more mascot (the Peglegs) and asked Reso said. “We suggest a student- rent street names. Underneath this built. The history of slavery in the aware of issues surrounding the my students what they thought,” led committee or movement to text, additional information about United States is world history,” actions of prominent people in Stuzin said in an e-mail interview. confront the school’s name and the featured people’s roles in this Reso said. “The wall for which history. “They informed me that he was history. You have the power to Wall Street was named, the finan- For junior Jingyu Zhang, her also a harmful person and a slaver, change the world.” Stuyvesant Students in the Heart of NYC Politics By JENNY LIU and KAREN ZHANG

With the 2021 city primaries coming up on June 22, New York City is narrowing its candidates for mayor, comptroller, borough presidents, and City Council members. The Spectator released a survey on May 26 to the student body asking who they support for NYC mayor. Of the 62 responses, 33.9 percent said they would vote for Dianne Morales, 29 percent for Kathryn Garcia, 19.4 percent for Andrew Yang, 12.9 percent for Eric Adams, 3.2 percent for Maya Wiley, and 1.6 percent for Ray McGuire. While most Stuyvesant students are not of voting age yet, some are getting involved in campaigns nonetheless. Here is how Stuyvesant students are getting involved in local politics.

Eric Tang John Grossman

Volunteering for current District 4 City councilmem- “I’ve always been passionate about politics, ever since I was ber Keith Powers’s campaign for re-election, who is run- 12,” senior John Grossman said. “I’ve always been someone ning unopposed, freshman Eric Tang has been campaign- who is attuned to help and I knew once I got closer to voting ing to help elect Powers’ allies for city council. age and above voting age, that I would want to be even more On Stuyvesant’s debate team, Tang decided to join a politically involved.” campaign to gain firsthand experience in politics. “On de- Having always been captivated by politics, Grossman is now bate, you’re exposed to all of this politics and economics,” involved as a Neighborhood Council Captain for Mark Levine’s he said. “And I thought [joining the campaign] would be a campaign for Manhattan Borough President. Levine is a current great chance to get more immersed in it and also interact City Council Member representing District 7 of Upper Man- with people from the city.” hattan. Grossman is in charge of coordinating events in Dis- Phone banking for two to four hours a week, Tang trict 74, which encompasses the lower east side of Manhattan especially enjoys conversing with constituents on issues in neighborhoods such as Stuyvesant Town/Peter Cooper Vil- they are concerned about, such as housing policies. “Small lage, Murray Hill, and the East Village, coordinating a team of things like traffic, definitely COVID, increase in violence, interns, and running a weekly phone bank and standing canvass. all of that, and learning about what’s going on in the city While working on the campaign, Grossman gained new- and trying to help people out by letting them vote—that’s found experiences, such as petitioning, which he initially ex- one of the best things that you can do,” he said. pected to dislike. “Something that I thought I would hate but However, he also recognizes the low voter turnout rate ended up loving was petitioning [...] It was really rough. The first for local elections and, thus, the importance of canvassing day, it was so cold,” he said. “But then I kept going and I really as many votes. “Every time you get to contact a voter, they got into it because I found that [...] they’re usually excited to [...] learn about the campaign and since this is such a small see a young person work in politics [...] It’s also a chance to talk municipal level election, each vote matters a lot,” he said. about the candidate and I thought that I saw more of the city “Just getting maybe five to 10 people to vote for whoever than I’ve seen in a long time while doing that.” we’re phone banking for in that time span over the course While this is Grossman’s first formal campaign, he has none- of a couple of months is going to garner so many votes.” theless gained a plethora of experience that he believes he can Unable to vote himself, Tang sees campaigning as one carry beyond the political scene. “I’ve just learned more about of the few ways he can get involved to help the commu- how to interact with people. I’ve gained so much experience nity. “It’s a great stepping stone to learn about bigger po- that I could translate into other jobs, in just working on a cam- litical issues because a lot of things you see in national paign,” he said. “I know that at Stuy [...] we’re a super math and politics, for example, lobbying, you’ll see it at a small level science school. I really just want to encourage people to step

at city scale, and it’s much easier to understand [and] is outside of that and realize that things can have a lot of value.” Courtesy of Grossman John going to help your understanding with national politics.” Grossman, on the right. The Spectator• June 1, 2021 Page 9 News

Amanda Cisse

Freshman Amanda Cisse first became involved in mayoral candidate Dianne Morales’s campaign as a leader in the Listening and Outreach Branch but has since become of the co-leads of the Youth Branch, a division that works on projects directed at educating the youth about Morales’s campaign. Current projects include writing collaborative articles for Morales’s youth blog, hosting high school webi- nars about voter registration, and running events called Moralethons. “[The Moralethon] is basically a zoom event where a couple of students from the Youth Branch invite other youth to come and teach them a skill or have a talk,” Cisse said. “We’ve had a few of these before. One of them was centered on the topic [of] how to talk to your parents about Dianne [Morales].” Cisse’s involvement has allowed her to be cognizant of the boldness of Morales’s campaign and a subse- quent appreciation of it. “On the issue of defunding the police, she very outrightly uses the word ‘defund,’” Cisse said. “I found out that a lot of the candidates like [Scott] Stringer and [Maya] Wiley both want to defund the police but refuse to use that wording or stray away from very bold statements, and I like that Dianne doesn’t do that.” In addition to leading and contributing to the work of the Youth Branch, Cisse participates in phone bank- ing sessions. Through these sessions, she’s also developed an awareness of how Morales’s progressiveness is a double-edged sword. “[People’ll] just hang up when they hear ‘Hi I’m a volunteer for Dianne Morales, a pro- gressive candidate,” Cisse said. “They’ll just hear the word ‘progressive’ and be like ‘no.’ A lot of her plans are very liberal, and I think a lot of people think it’s not feasible in a city like New York which is very capitalized.” Despite these experiences, Cisse remains hopeful of Morales’s position, as she thinks Morales’s lived expe- riences as a single mom and schoolteacher can help her reach different communities. “I like that she’s been a schoolteacher and a single mom instead of being [in] a really high-up position where she’s a bit detached from the people she’s trying to help,” Cisse said. Courtesy of Amanda Cisse

Caroline Ji

Senior Caroline Ji is a We Power NYC Ambassador, a program committed to increasing youth en- gagement in local elections. This program was first started by NYC Votes, the public engagement arm of the NYC Campaign Finance Board, a nonpartisan, independent city agency that runs the mayoral elections. Ji and other ambassadors have worked on several projects such as hosting podcasts, interviewing reports, and helping set up mayoral forums. They also create content for their social media such as in- fographics and short videos. The ambassadors’ work, which starts in February, leads up to the general election on November 2. “Coming from a background where my parents literally grew up in a communist regime [...] I un- derstand that voting is not something that a lot of people valued just because it was never ingrained in their background,” Ji said. “ Being a first gen[eration] student coming from [that] background [...] puts me in a very unique position to bridge that gap.” Through this program, Ji gained insight into the intentionality of political campaigns, something she had never thought of before. “Personally, I thought [getting into local politics was a very easy thing. [But] one thing we do as ambassadors is, whenever we do social media work, we have to post at the same exact time on the same exact day because that’s how you best the algorithms on social media,” Ji said. “Even learning that lesson itself definitely shaped the way I think about how local politicians formulate their campaigns because it’s so meticulous.” Not only does the work Ji contributes as an ambassador help educate the youth, but it has also helped educate herself and her local communities. “Had I not done this program, I would have just been like, ‘ranked-choice voting? Don’t care about it. Don’t need to learn about it,’ and [...] when I got to actually vote, the chances of me making mistakes are so much higher,” she said. “The other day for my English minutes gift, I did a little presentation on ranked-choice voting and I thought that that was

Courtesy of Caroline Ji of Courtesy just such a great manifestation of how I’m literally passing on this information.” Ji realizes the tangible change she can create in her local communities. “Even if I can get my family to vote like that’s already a big win. I’ve been pestering a lot of my friends to register to vote,” she said. “It’s one thing we really stress as ambassadors is the power of exponential dissemination. It takes one person to reach out to five, and those five reach out to another five, and that’s how you see very tangible results. I think that’s just been a very gratifying aspect of this whole thing.”

Hannah Scheuer

“I’m generally a politically active person and it’s something I hold dear to my heart,” junior Hannah Scheuer said. “I heard about Dianne [Morales] last May but [initially] didn’t think anything of it.” However, Scheuer has since become interested in Morales’s campaign after encountering a powerful quote on her website. “She has this one line on her website that’s like, ‘The people closest to the problem are closest to the solution.’ That line really just stuck out to me in terms of the ways I try to get involved in my commu- nity and [...] electing someone who really believes in that central idea felt really powerful,” she said. Since early March, Scheuer’s volunteered at and led phone banking sessions and canvassed at local parks for Morales’s campaign. Scheuer, who’s interested in linguistics and is the co-president of the Stuyvesant Linguistics Club, has also found a deep appreciation for the language diversity present in the campaign and community-organizing spaces. “I’m really interested in language and linguistics and [the volunteers] have a Slack channel called ‘Lan- guage Justice,’ and I really like the way that’s phrased. It’s just community volunteers who speak two or more languages who volunteer to translate things.” Like Cisse, Scheuer has also developed an appreciation for Morales’s campaign after participating in it. “It’s so, so, so grassroots. [Look at] Shaun Donovan getting a million dollars from his father [...] Ray McGuire and Eric Adams and [Andrew] Yang all [...] have so much more funding and accepting [...] influence from large stakeholders outside of the city,” she said. “So it’s just this deep appreciation for all the people who keep [Mo- rales’s] campaign going.”

With the recent unionization efforts in Morales’s campaign that have led several staff members and employees to leave, Scheuer has decided to stop volunteering. Scheuer wants to support the union and believes the remaining campaign lacks transparency. Courtesy of Hannah Scheuer

Anisa Palevic

For almost five months, junior Anisa Palevic has been phone banking constituents and canvassing voters on the streets to help elect city council member Mark Levine for Manhattan Borough President. In addition to voter outreach, Palevic is also involved in the policy team, where she researches issues and poli- cies, such as zoning and education, and sees how a Manhattan Borough President can address them. “We had this really cool thing that we did on our social media account where we would post every single policy idea that the team had to get people excited seeing all the new ideas that we were putting forth,” she said. Being involved in a campaign has provided Palevic with greater insight and understanding of the role of local Courtesy of Anisa Palevic of Courtesy politicians in NYC. “A lot of people will just go for presidential and gubernatorial elections and that’s it,” she said. “But your local politicians do a lot of important things and they are the ones that impact your community at the most basic level.” For Palevic, she believes in the importance of becoming immersed in local politics young to better understand the way policies shape the city. “Getting involved in local politics will help you actually understand the policies that you’re told you should believe or you should not believe in. When you’re actually working for politicians you can see the scope and you can see why these certain things don’t get passed,” she said. “It’s so important to hammer in the importance of local elections so that the little changes that affect you the most are what you’re able to control best.” Palevic, on the right Page 10 The Spectator • June 1, 2021 Features Mother, Mother, In My Home By FRANCES SCHWARZ had a picnic,” she described. “It mom!” she wrote in an e-mail very grateful for that because find that their opinions clash and SHIVANI was also drizzling so we had a interview. she will advocate for me with- over issues like feminism and MANIMARAN picnic in the drizzle. And it was An organized mom is of- out fear,” they said. “She will LGBTQ+ rights. They are of- also cold [...] She did appreci- ten also a resilient mom, who call up the school and yell at ten warned by their mother not Mother, mother, in my ate the sentiment, and she en- inspires her children to be the them to help me in some way. to wear tops with low neck- home. I hope you know I love joyed it. It was just very nice all same way. Katari’s mother, for [...] She’s taught me to stand up lines in fear of sexualization by you so. around.” example, had next to nothing for myself and absolutely have strangers. “I don’t care, because Caught up in the daily strug- Though Mother’s Day has when she immigrated to the no filter.” They have come to I’m a child and I’m like, first of gles of remote learning, it’s easy already passed this year, many U.S. from India at 20 and got to share many interests with their all, you should not be sexualiz- for students to forget how hard students still recognize the im- where she is today through hard mother, the most notable of ing me if I don’t want you to,” mothers have been working pact their mothers have had work. “She’s done a lot and which being their mutual love Zheng said. “That makes per- to be caring and supportive to on them. “My mom is really she’s gone through a lot, but for good food. “It’s funny be- fect sense to me, but [...] some- their children, especially dur- awesome,” Katari said. She de- the place that she’s in today […] cause my mom [and I] are very times our perceived realities ing the pandemic. Mother’s Day scribed her mom as wholesome, She’s in a good place,” Katari similar, so when we have good don’t match up.” may have already passed this funny, affectionate, and much said. “I definitely admire her for food, we enter a state of pure Shin also tends to grapple year, but every day is a good more organized than herself. all of the work that she’s done bliss,” Friedman described. with his mother’s differing day to remember and cherish “She’s the one who forced me and that she continues to put in, “But we’ve also come out opinions. “We fought about the the love and support of our to sit down and do my Kumon especially for me and my sister.” screaming out of restaurants vaccine because we had differ- mothers. homework, which, kudos to her Ochoa is similarly inspired with bad food, just being angry ent opinions about it,” he said. Sophomore Eugenia Ochoa because I was a bad child when by her mom, who encourages for the rest of the day.” “Other times, though, we’re celebrated Mother’s Day with it came to Kumon […] No one her to make art despite hav- In Katari’s case, her sense pretty friendly together and we both her mother and grand- likes Kumon.” ing a rough time as a writer. “I of morals and respect for oth- talk a lot. It fluctuates, but I mother this year. “My Grandma Many students also learned admire her a lot because I feel ers is credited to her mother. “I wish it didn’t fluctuate and we was here, so we celebrated with their organizational habits from like she’s very resilient. A lot of definitely see the world in a dif- just stayed on good terms the her. I cooked for my grandma, whole time.” my aunt, and my mom—some Despite a rough patch or pastries,” she said. two, students feel like they have Likewise, sophomore James plenty to be grateful to their Shin kept Mother’s Day simple. mother for. “[Her] existence. “Every Mother’s Day, I make I don’t know, loving me. Just gifts and try giving them to my being my mom and being like mom. I can’t give them any- ‘Yeah! I’ll foster an emotion- thing on Amazon or anything ally damaged teenager who because they’ll know what the will probably give me a whole gift is. I just spend the night lotta trouble,’ and still deciding before making them a little ori- to go through with it because gami,” he said. she [EXPLETIVE] loves me,” Others celebrated with a Zheng said. formal touch. Sophomore Alice The bottom line is that even Zheng went all out for Mother’s when times are hard, the un- Day, which also happened to be conditional love of mothers is their mom’s birthday this year. unbeatable. “My mom puts up “We gave Mom a spa day, sort with me, which means she puts of […] And then we went to up with a lot,” Katari said. “And eat somewhere fancy. It was Spectator Singh / The Aryana I’m very, very, very appreciative. French. That was nice. And And I love her a lot for that.” then I gave her a painting,” they Mazumder wishes her said. This painting, which is cur- mother more time for herself rently hanging in their mother’s in the future. “A lot of the time classroom, took the longest out she sacrifices her free time just of any other they’ve made. to care for us. I hope once me However, not all Mother’s and my siblings [are] a little old- Days were smooth sailing, as their mothers. Zheng, for ex- stuff has happened to her, but ferent way from her stories and er, she can spend time on her sophomore Ruby Friedman ex- ample, has taken to making cal- she’s still cheery and smiley and compared also to the way I live,” passions.” plained. “It was an interesting endars and lists, just like their she’s always encouraging me Katari said. Her mother’s South In light of all that our moth- day,” they said. “We went to din- mother. “She’s the one who’s and my dad.” Asian culture and customs have ers do and sacrifice for us, Ka- ner and we had a nice sushi din- on top of everything, as most Friedman is also apprecia- also played a large role in her tari hopes to remind everyone ner. We got home and my mom moms are. She plans every- tive of their mother’s strong childhood in the States.“It’s the to let our mothers know how was cutting something and she thing, she’s got all the calendars, nature. “She can speak in pub- silly things, like you can’t wash appreciative we are. “Just say cut her finger.” The mayhem the times, she reminds us what lic. She’s a very strong, indepen- your hair on Thursdays, appar- ‘thank you’ or ‘I love you’ to did not end there, though. “And to do,” they said. dent woman-slash-girlboss,” ently. Thursdays you’re not sup- your mother. Because while we then I fainted in the hallway be- Freshman Arshia Mazum- they said. “I admire her confi- posed to do anything,” she de- feel it, not everyone always real- cause there was a lot of blood der’s mother is also very put dence and speaking abilities and scribed. “I’m like, why? ‘That’s izes that we feel that way.” [...] It was just chaos.” together. Whenever Mazumder her resilience.” just how it works.’” So, what are you waiting for? Sophomore Anjini Katari’s loses something, her mother al- Friedman has also learned It’s not always sunshine and Go give that loving and hard- day also had a few bumps along ways manages to find it within to be fierce and firm through rainbows between mothers and working woman a big hug! the road. “We drove upstate to five minutes. “I think I take her their mother’s tendency to their children, though. Zheng one of the state parks and we too much for granted. Thanks, speak her mind to anyone. “I’m and their mother sometimes Prabhu, Here’s to You! By ISABEL CHING prepared to weather the storm. and every year at Stuyvesant has at Stuyvesant and has been fa- ter understand the perspective and JENNIFER JI Prabhu’s past students, who reminded me why I love work- cilitating instructional sessions and lens of an administrator be- have experienced her kindness ing with young people,” she with the department chairs in fore determining what needs to After over a year of re- in biology, feel that she is per- explained in an email interview. our efforts to deliver consistent change,” she said. mote instruction that exposed fectly suited for her new posi- Outside of the classroom, Prab- and coherent instruction.” The beginning of the next a number of mental health tion. “Ms. Prabhu creates such hu coaches the boys’ swim team, In Prabhu’s own words, school year in September and and learning issues within the a welcoming environment in her an activity she finds meaningful “I’ve been providing support the return to the Stuyvesant school community, the Stuyves- class and is the perfect teacher and rewarding. “It reminds me to colleagues for many years so building are also on Prabhu’s ant administration has created for helping freshmen transition how hard our students work I have a good foundation and mind. She hopes to ease the a position to address our mod- in high school, especially dur- at everything they do and that sense of some of the needs in transition to in-person instruc- ern learning environment. On ing remote learning,” said junior teenagers need to laugh, build our school community.” tion, especially since next year’s Monday, April 26th, Principal Samira Esha, a former freshman relationships, and find a support For Prabhu, the appeal of freshman and sophomore Seung Yu appointed biology biology student of Ms. Prahbu. system,” she explained. “School the new position lies in its im- classes have yet to experience teacher Marianne Prabhu as In- Sophomore Ameer Alnasser is much more than an academic pact. “Teachers, students, and Stuyvesant in-person. “Return- terim Acting Assistant Principal is another one of Ms. Prabhu’s program.” families have been through a ing back to the physical building for Teacher Support & Devel- past students. He explained his The position itself, Interim difficult year,” she wrote. “We will be difficult for many, and I opment and Data Systems Lead. experience: “Throughout my Acting Assistant Principal, di- all need support more than ever want to make sure I am there Yu outlined the position in his moderately short time with her rectly aligns with Prabhu’s expe- as we take what we have learned to help teachers, students, and announcement of it: “This role as my teacher, I can safely say I rience. As part of the Stuyves- from the pandemic and rethink families feel as comfortable as will focus on the support and enjoyed every minute of it [...] ant administration, Prabhu has how we approach teaching and possible as we transition,” she development of teachers, par- She is so kind and considerate worked closely with her fellow learning for the future.” To this explained. ticularly in the areas of instruc- and handed us candy on a fre- teachers, organizing profes- end, Prabhu has already begun While Prabhu’s position is tion, pedagogy, and student quent basis. For an introduction sional development sessions reaching out to teachers, stu- not guaranteed—the IAAP po- performance data use [and will] into Stuyvesant, she is for sure and helping over 30 of her col- dents, and parents in order to sition was formally posted on lead and facilitate our efforts in one of the better teachers to leagues complete probation. gain a more comprehensive un- May 3rd so all interested candi- preparation for our instruction- get,” he wrote in an email inter- Principal Yu elaborated on derstanding of what is and isn’t dates can apply—it seems she is al approach for the next school view. Prabhu’s extensive experience working in the remote setting. adjusting to the job and actively year.” The feeling is mutual— in his announcement as well, For her, knowledge informs working to improve the learn- Yet even in the midst of Prabhu loves teaching just as stating, “[Prabhu] has served action. “My immediate goal is ing experience for all Stuyvesant such an unprecedented learning much as her students love her. as a Peer Collaborative Teacher to listen and learn as much as students. So here’s to you, Ms. environment, it seems Prabhu is “I’ve been a teacher since 2007 leader for the past five years possible. I think I need to bet- Prabhu! The Spectator • June 1, 2021 Page 11 Features Thoughts on Shots By ISABEL CHING junior Cameron Kluger said. dose, I’ve been feeling fine,” she families.” the pandemic,” Kluger said. and JENNIFER JI “I went to the Upper East Side said. Above all, students are mo- Hammer echoed this sentiment, and it took less than 30 minutes, The Pfizer dose hit ju- tivated to get vaccines, knowing expressing his support for peo- For over a year, our lives including the time to book the nior Andy Lin differently than it will lead to a path of normal- ple’s personal freedom: “I don’t have been shadowed by the second appointment.” Khoury, he explained: “On cy—the last stage of the COV- think that vaccines should be COVID-19 pandemic, plagu- Seniors Jesse Hammer and both shots, I felt a slight sting ID-19 pandemic. “This year has mandated. My attachment to ing a year and a half of our Lamia Haque both received the for about a day. After the sec- been awful, and I miss pre-CO- personal liberties is too strong.” high school journey. But after Johnson & Johnson vaccine, ond shot, though, I felt that I VID times,” Khoury expressed. However, Hammer expressed months of clinical trials and which is unique in its single- had the chills for about a day, “Vaccines should be mandated, concern about the health of scientific experiments, it ap- dose requirement. Both had but it was manageable without since there are no downsides the student body and general pears the virus has finally met similar experiences with the any medicine, as I just bundled to getting vaccinated [...] vac- public as a whole. “It would be its match: vaccination. COV- after effects of their vaccina- up a bit.” cines are the first step towards acceptable to require a vaccine ID-19 vaccines were approved tion. “By about 6:00 p.m., I was Despite getting different normalcy. They also just made for society’s functions that have in late 2020 and rolled out in suffering intensely—I was deal- vaccines and different side- an announcement that people substantial risk of spreading early 2021 for people with criti- ing with fatigue, nausea, fever,” effects, most students believed can go outside without masks if COVID. In this way, one could cal health conditions and those Hammer explained in an e-mail that vaccines should help to they have been vaccinated, and avoid mandating the vaccine over 60. By April 7, students interview. Fortunately, Hammer determine who will be allowed I think we’ll see that trend con- while still ensuring that general over 16 could officially be vacci- was back on his feet the very back in school. “Vaccinations tinue through the summer.” society remains vaccinated and nated, and by May 12, that range next day and only felt a mild need to play a role in who can Haque agreed: “I cannot most or all of those who are was extended to people over 12. soreness in his arm. return to school. It may be pos- wait for a return to normalcy. not vaccinated remain separate With a tough year behind us, the Haque experienced similar sible to have some unvaccinated One and a half years of my high from those they might infect,” introduction of vaccines seems symptoms. “I had a low fever, people at a school if the per- school career have gone away he said. to be the last ride of the wave. chills, and felt a little sluggish centage of people there who because of this virus and I want As we approach the new Here is what Stuyvesant stu- for a day, ‘’ she said. The next are vaccinated is at or above to have real experiences again.” school year, those eligible for dents had to say about it. day, however, she felt fine. herd immunity levels,” Hammer Others take a different ap- the vaccine are encouraged to Though booking appoint- Junior Andrea Khoury had explained. “However, until it’s proach when considering our sign up. In the words of Kluger, ments was difficult directly after a more positive experience. possible to determine what herd return to school. “While I think “[We] could use a more coop- the introduction of the vac- Khoury received both doses of immunity levels are for a school that vaccines should not be erative spirit as a society, and cine, most Stuyvesant students the Pfizer vaccine and did not environment, people who have mandated, if the vast majority trusting our doctors and the found the vaccination process feel any side effects at all. “After not been vaccinated should not of us are getting vaccinated and people around us to prevent the to be quick and efficient. “The the first dose, I didn’t feel any- be allowed to go to school, for encouraging others to follow spread is important.” vaccination itself was great,” thing. So far, after my second their own sakes and for their suit, we’ll be able to move past Looking Back on the Holy Month of Ramadan By MAHIR HOSSAIN not sleep until 4:00 to 5:00 a.m. an anonymous freshman said. every night. During Eid, which marks the After a long day at school, Others had little change in end of Ramadan, many masjids work, or home, the whole ex- their productivity as a result of did not have mass praying times tended family gathers around a the holiday. “Fasting has not during the day, but socially dis- table to say their prayers before really impacted my productiv- tanced small to medium-sized eating. On the table is an as- ity in the classroom because prayers. sortment of food for the chil- classes are in the morning, and Typically, Ramadan would dren and much spicier dishes even before Ramadan, I would be celebrated with extended for the adults and those who not eat in the morning. I was al- families, which could not hap- can handle it. The most popu- ready used to sleeping late and pen due to COVID-19 restric- lar ones include peeajoo (fried I am not a very deep sleeper so tions. There were still positive lentils), beguni (battered and waking up for Sehri was not a aspects to Ramadan this year, fried eggplant), an assortment problem for me,” freshman M. however, despite it being cel- of fruits, dates to break the fast, M. Abrar Hasnat said. This may ebrated within close quarters. and last but not least, pakora be the case for many students The biggest plus was the limit (fried vegetable “patties”). The who have become numb to on travel that would have been eating goes on for 30 minutes, Stuyvesant’s workloads leading in effect, compared to if stu- as the elderly and the children them into the late-night hours, dents went to school. “There’s eat slower, and afterward, the making the need to wake up for no travel and it’s getting warm- group goes to the mosque to early morning prayers helpful er. So, bus, train, even walking pray Maghrib, the prayer right rather than harmful. in school, all those steps are after the sun sets. With the threat of COV- very tiring. So since it’s at home, This past month, however, ID-19 still looming, however, it is easier to conserve energy those who celebrated the holy many students and their fami- and do school from bed,” Akter month of Ramadan fasted at lies continued exercising cau- said. home due to COVID-19 re- tion around congregating with Others are thankful that Ra- strictions, having to complete family. “I just eat with my [im- madan is gaining more recogni- their assignments and classes mediate] family. I haven’t really tion as a holiday, as it is often without food or water until the seen anyone from outside of underrepresented in compari-

sun had set. the household or eaten with son to other holidays such as Spectator Semoi Khan / The Some students, such as ju- them since Ramadan started, Christmas and Thanksgiving. nior Kaniz Akter, report having which is different from the “I’ve noticed that this year, very little energy for the dura- norm,” freshman Eshaal Ubaid more people have been inform- tion of the month. “[Rama- said. ing each other about Ramadan, dan] made me less productive However, there is hope because I think more people are because you either have to stay for places of worship. “Many spending time on social media up late or wake up early, and I mosques have opened up al- and more people are spreading don’t get enough sleep often, so ready and follow social distanc- awareness about it. I’ve noticed holiday somehow.” Ubaid said. a time to celebrate outside of it ma[de] me really tired, and I ing guidelines. If you go to a more people asking me about With more people on social me- close quarters, and a much don’t start my work until I break mosque, you will need a mask, it this year than previous years dia and dwindling coronavirus more curious audience to learn my fast,” she said. Akter’s sleep and people are made to pray and it’s been rather nice because restrictions, it seems that many about Ramadan in general. schedule meant that she would far apart from one another,” it seems to be this lesser-known Muslims can look forward to Dead Art

Shreyasi Saha / The Spectator Kelly Yip / The Spectator Page 12 The Spectator • June 1, 2021 Editorials

ARTS & The Spectator NYC Mayoral Endorsement The Spectator ENTERTAINMENT EDITORS The Stuyvesant High The pandemic in New has served as Commissioner ing speaks to her larger philos- School Newspaper Suah Chung York City is almost over. The of the Sanitation Department, ophy: she finds fixes that work Kenisha Mahajan majority of adult New York- rising at dawn to guarantee not just now, but also later. “The Pulse Gavin McGinley ers are fully vaccinated and clean water through city taps Other candidates might of the Dexter Wells free to return to business as and streets free of trash. Be- have more audacious plans, Student usual. School will be in person yond daily city maintenance, but plans are worthless next September, restaurants Garcia knows how to resur- without competent follow- Body” PHOTOGRAPHY are back, and sporting events rect New York after major city through. Garcia understands EDITORS are nearing full capacity. How- catastrophes. Garcia served what can and cannot be done EDITORS IN CHIEF Francesca Nemati ever, the city itself has a long as incident commander dur- in a city with limited resources Morris Raskin* Sasha Socolow road to recovery. As NYC ing Hurricane Sandy in 2013, and how to realistically ac- Karen Zhang* faces fiscal, housing, transpor- establishing 42 pumping sta- complish ambitious progres- ART DIRECTORS tation, population, education, tions and a water waste treat- sive goals. Despite the dis- Afra Mahmud** crime, and policing crises, the ment plant in only three days. agreements New Yorkers have NEWS EDITORS Jenny Liu* Adrianna Peng next mayor is responsible for Garcia confronted a citywide about our government, they Sophie Poget getting the city back on its crisis once again during the can all agree on one thing: we Momoca Mairaj feet. The Democratic prima- pandemic when she respond- need a better one. And of all ry on June 22 will decide the ed to a city-wide hunger cri- of the 13 candidates, Kathryn FEATURES EDITORS LAYOUT EDITORS outcome of one of the most sis by creating an emergency Garcia has proved time and Angela Cai Ezra Lee pivotal mayoral elections in food program that has now time again that she has the te- Christina Pan Amy Lin recent history. As the primary delivered over 200 million nacity, competence, and vision Clara Shapiro* Susie McKnight will be ranked-choice, The meals to those in need. Her to truly better this city. Spectator Editorial Board has leadership in sanitation and COPY EDITORS decided to provide a second- city maintenance embodies OPINIONS EDITORS Eric Adams Maya Nelson Nora Miller ary endorsement. the administrative skills nec- Eric Adams, while the least Tashfia Noor** essary for running the largest progressive of the Democrat- Aaron Visser* Kathryn Garcia city in the nation. ic candidates, deserves con- Shreyasi Saha Every mayoral candidate Additionally, Garcia’s plans sideration in the race. Adams SCIENCE EDITORS Ruiwen Tang has a vision for the future of address not only how to get is highly qualified, serving as Gerard Lin Raymond Yang** New York. Each one is not the city back to its former a NYPD captain, a legislator Sonya Sasson** content to just return to the strength, but how to make it in the New York State Senate, BUSINESS MANAGERS pre-pandemic normal and even stronger. New York City and the first Black Brooklyn SPORTS EDITORS Jared Moser** understand that the status will face many problems in the Borough President. He em- Krish Gupta Tina Nguyen quo needs massive improve- coming years––the continued phasizes law and order while Sam Levine ment. While candidates vary effects of climate change, a understanding the need for slightly on policy, they all seek housing crisis, and countless systemic change within the Matt Melucci WEB EDITORS a more affordable, prosper- other challenges––but Garcia police department. Adams David Chen** ous, and equitable city. Thus, is prepared to confront these promises to keep the city safe HUMOR EDITORS Alyssa Choi the critical question becomes issues. Garcia will move the in the face of the recent spike Logan Ruzzier** Andrey Sokolov which candidate can actually city to a fully renewable en- in crime rates and make sys- Kelly Yip* execute his or her vision, fol- ergy economy, green every tematic changes to root out in- * Managing Board FACULTY ADVISER low through on promises, run single school roof, and double equalities that even he himself Kerry Garfinkel a massive bureaucracy, and the number of green jobs in has experienced. Additionally, ** Editors-in-Training navigate our tense political cli- the city. Garcia’s approach to he understands the need for mate to make tough calls. Of housing is equally compre- education reform. Instead of Please address all letters to: We reserve the right to edit letters 345 Chambers Street for clarity and length. the 13 Democratic candidates, hensive. Her program will ad- keeping the SHSAT exam, New York, NY 10282 © 2018 The Spectator (212) 312-4800 ext. 2601 All rights reserved by the creators. Kathryn Garcia is the clear dress the housing crisis by ac- he is proposing a new model [email protected] answer. celerating the construction of for the NYC school system A Stuyvesant alumna (‘88) new housing units, which will that includes expanding the dition to the SHSAT. He is propel them into the city’s and lifelong New Yorker, help give the homeless perma- number of specialized high calling for an education sys- elite high schools, with test Garcia has a plethora of expe- nent places to live rather than schools across the city that tem that starts preparing stu- preparatory services provided rience working as a civil ser- week-long shelters. Garcia’s would consider students on dents for success as early as el- to any student who cannot af- vant. For the past 14 years, she long-term approach to hous- their academic profiles in ad- ementary school and will help ford them. Snow Days Aren’t Negotiable By CHARLOTTE of the school year, a day of re- any schooling or connected the unfortunate general shift mental to students’ mental and PETERSON mote learning cannot do what with their schools in the past toward continuously working physical health and represents a day of in-person instruction year. These students have no and maximizing our “produc- the cultural shift toward valuing For the upcoming school can. Teachers are not given reason to attend an isolated tivity.” The amount of work work over everything else. year, the New York City De- enough time to prepare for day of remote learning and will students have received has in- Ultimately, eliminating snow partment of Education (DOE) these unpredictable snow days, likely miss out on the online in- creased from previous genera- days is downright upsetting for announced on May 4 that it thus furthering the inadequacy struction other students will be tions, with younger age groups children. Something that was would be instituting remote of remote learning. Care and receiving. Other students may in 1997 receiving an average a joyful staple of so many of learning in place of snow days. deliberation are required to lack the proper equipment for of more than twice as much our childhood winters may not Citing the “success of remote plan lessons; this time is not a day of virtual learning. While homework as they did 16 years be experienced by the future learning” as the reason, the given to teachers when they are schools and the DOE gave out prior. Another study found that generations. While the DOE DOE declared that public required, out of the blue, to tablets and laptops this year for by 2015, children had three has not made it clear whether school children will not experi- switch to a different platform online instruction, it is difficult times too much homework or not the policy is permanent, ence the unexpected days off to for a day. to organize the distribution of with no correlation between it has not mentioned what is in play in the snow. This decision is detrimental to the well-being of students as it negatively im- pacts their mental health and education. Snow days allow kids to en- joy a fun, stress-free day out- Children should not be side. When looking back on their days in school, people cooped up, staring at a should remember playing out- doors on the snowiest days of the year instead of spend- screen for hours, as it is ing time on Zoom. A day off to frolic in the snow provides hardly a necessary adap- a motivation to play outside, seeing as only 35 percent of tation for a single missed school-aged children receive the recommended amount school day. of physical activity. Children should not be cooped up, star- ing at a screen for hours, as it is hardly a necessary adaptation for a single missed school day. Children are also likely to be distracted by the enticing win- Mandy Li / The Spectator ter weather, making focusing in Students have also reported devices on such short notice, the amount of work given and store for future years. The exis- class even more difficult than not being able to learn well and underprivileged students learning benefits. Seeing as chil- tence of this change in policy before. virtually, with many failing to will likely involuntarily miss dren are already overworked alone is worrying and indicative Though this decree means show up to remote classes and class. and overburdened, getting rid of this shift in valuing work that there will be fewer addi- lectures. A staggering 2,260 Discarding snow days for of snow days, one of our few over recreational time. tional makeup days at the end students in NYC have not done virtual learning also exemplifies unexpected breaks, is detri- The Spectator • June 1, 2021 Page 13 Opinions Andrew Yang: A Hero for Asians? By ALEX CHO and nizations, and do everything in Yang’s argument is reminis- nothing but a lack of a distinct Americans. JUSTIN HUANG our power to accelerate the end cent of Booker T. Washington’s Asian identity and a deeply in- Praised for providing Asian of this crisis. We should show advocacy of the idea that Af- grained belief in Asian inferior- people with the representation Among New York City’s without a shadow of a doubt rican Americans should make ity. they have so desperately need- thousands of Asian American that we are Americans who will themselves more respectful and Yang was adored by the ed, Yang’s words are impactful businesses, next to the racks of do our part for our country in pull themselves by the boot- Asian American community be- in the community. Though he glistening roast pork or crates this time of need.” straps, as opposed to blaming cause he was a major represen- acknowledged that his claim of fresh fruit and vegetables While Asian Americans others. By doing so, Washington tative in politics. However, his that Asians needed to show crowding the stores’ windows, should help others, the under- hoped that African Americans low exposure and chances of their patriotism “fell short,” it there is usually a navy blue lying tone and message in this could appeal by showing that winning kept observers from raises concerns about his ability “Yang for New York” sign. piece are loud and clear: show they could be useful members noticing his tone-deaf com- to combat anti-Asian discrimi- Andrew Yang, famous for his your patriotism and support of society and earn their rights. ments. Yang consistently ap- nation. Yang’s choice to release happy demeanor and heterodox so that people will not be rac- If African Americans had fol- pealed to the model minority the op-ed thinking that it was views during his 2020 presiden- ist to you. Yang expresses that lowed Washington and chosen myth in his pursuit of the Oval acceptable in the first place tial campaign, now has a serious the Asian American community to bear the discrimination they Office by joking, “I am Asian, leads us to believe that he may chance at becoming NYC’s first should volunteer and donate to faced, they would not support so I know a lot of doctors” not have what it takes to lead Asian American mayor. His coronavirus relief foundations someone as audacious as Mar- or “The opposite of Donald NYC. name recognition and support to “show without a shadow tin Luther King Jr. or Malcolm Trump is an Asian man who Yang is not the hero of the from the Asian American com- of a doubt that we are Ameri- X, both of whom fiercely advo- likes math.” While the jokes Asian American community. munity have lifted him to the cans.” He implies that donating cated against inequality. may seem harmless, he is forti- Though he may have appeared top of many polls. But while and expressing patriotism are Similarly, if Asian Ameri- fying stereotypes that are harm- to be the perfect candidate, his the Asian community loves the price to pay for acceptance cans had assimilated in the face ful to Asian people and other past comments have made it Yang for the representation and the avoidance of racism. of the adversities in the past, minority groups by forcing clear that he perpetuates Asian he brings, they ignore his anti- Yang, the “champion” of Asian we would not have the strong Asian people to work harder to stereotypes, whether inadver- Asian policies and comments. Americans, implies that we cultural identity we have today. meet the expectations set for tently or not, and contributes In a year-old op-ed for The should assimilate and become The Chinese Exclusion Act, the them while discouraging the to the issue of discrimination Washington Post addressing “more American,” which is na- 1992 Los Angeles riots in Ko- minorities who are compared among racial minorities. Instead the spike in anti-Asian racism, ive. No amount of red, white, reatown, and other struggles to these stereotypes. Having of automatically choosing Yang he wrote, “We need to step and blue garments will alter us Asian Americans have faced someone with as strong of a based on ethnicity, Asian Amer- up, help our neighbors, donate in the eyes of racists. It will not were not overcome by adopting voice as Yang say these remarks icans should research what oth- gear, vote, wear red, white, and stop the racial and hateful slurs American personas and culture. jokingly does nothing but wors- er mayoral candidates bring to blue, volunteer, fund aid orga- and the violence. Giving in would have yielded en preconceptions of Asian the table. Remember Tulsa By ISABEL CHING 1905, the sector blossomed on the sidewalk with machine ly receiving. In Tulsa, bipartisan going investment in other sec- into a district with one of the guns, and prevented firefighters efforts have resulted in “racial tors. Without government as- Exactly a century ago, a highest concentrations of Black from saving Black Wall Street. reconciliation efforts,” and a sistance, rebuilding often meant Black teenage shoe shiner businesses in the country. As a Soon, martial law was declared, multimillion-dollar museum the sacrifice of opportunities named Dick Rowland stepped result, the city itself became a and the National Guard was and cultural center to remem- like the investment in educa- into an office building near the mecca synonymous with Black brought in. They only worsened ber the massacre will open this tion, health, property, and busi- center of Tulsa, Oklahoma on prosperity, a shining beacon the situation as the police and spring to commemorate the ness, all factors which contrib- May 30, 1921. A few minutes of hope for a community long National Guard arrested Black event’s 100th anniversary. The uted to an overall decrease in after Rowland entered, the in conflict with the traditional residents instead of white riot- massacre has also found the wealth accumulation. building’s white elevator op- American psyche. ers, and some members of the national spotlight. The popu- Excavations, new muse- erator, 17-year-old Sarah Page, The primary reason for Tul- National Guard even joined in lar streaming platform HBO ums, and television shows are screamed for help. Terrified of sa’s economic success was the the rioting and violence them- released “Watchmen” in 2019, not enough to compensate being accused of assault and Great Migration. Spurred on selves. By the end of the mas- which provided a vivid and of- for an ugly past that continues rape, Rowland fled the scene. by the allure of job openings, sacre, more than 1,200 homes ten harrowing depiction of the to have a tangible impact on The next day, local police ar- urban residential districts, and were destroyed, 35 blocks were events that occurred between Black Tulsa today. Justice for rested and jailed Rowland in boarding houses, Black Ameri- burned, and as many as 300 May 31, 1921, and now. Inter- the atrocities of the past must the Tulsa County Courthouse. cans seized the opportunity people lay dead. An innocent estingly, the series does not re- finally be served through- eco Soon, the story of the escalator nomic reparations for Black encounter pervaded the public Tulsa and the introduction of consciousness as newspapers the Tulsa Race Massacre into like The Tulsa Tribune manipu- mainstream American culture. lated age-old fears of Black men We owe it to Black Tulsa to rec- “corrupting” white women. An ognize the psychological harm armed white mob assembled at done to the Black community Tulsa’s courthouse and began and the detrimental effects the shooting into the Black crowd, massacre had on Tulsa’s econ-

setting off a chain of events Spectator Ivy Jiang / The omy. Atoning for the past will known today as the Tulsa Race provide Black Tulsa with badly Massacre. Though nobody will needed economic aid and recast ever know what truly unfolded the traditional depiction of the in the elevator that fateful day, massacre by acknowledging the the horror that erupted over the gross injustice. next two days destroyed Tulsa’s Understanding American flourishing Black community presented by wartime prosper- elevator meeting, where it is flect the events of modern-day history remains more impor- and left a permanent stain on ity to escape the persistent and commonly suggested that Row- Tulsa; instead, it presents an tant than ever. Today, in a time the city’s character—a mark violent racism of the South and land was trying to catch Page alternate history in which resi- of fraught racial tensions and that continues to dictate Tulsa start life anew. Though Black as she stumbled, had exploded dents affected by the massacre continued violence toward race relations today. Americans hoped that a move into one of the nation’s deadli- have received reparations. Black Americans, best exempli- At the time of the massacre, to the North might mitigate est and ugliest race massacres. However, in our reality, local fied by the murders of unarmed Tulsa was an anomaly in a coun- racial tensions, their migration Today, the events of Tulsa leaders have refused to com- Black men like George Floyd try increasingly characterized by instead proved to be an explo- remain relatively unknown— pensate the victims financially and Daunte Wright, reckon- white supremacist movements sive force. In St. Louis, Illinois, Stuyvesant’s own history text- while the Black community in ing with our history will color like the Ku Klux Klan and anti- a mob of whites attacked Af- books contain no mention of Tulsa suffers a disproportion- our perception of the present. Black violence. Just the summer rican Americans and killed at the massacre, and the event is ately high poverty rate. Accord- In Tulsa, a white police officer before, racist mobs had mur- least 100 residents in 1917. In not typically taught in American ing to the Tulsa Race Massacre named Betty Shelby fatally shot dered Black veterans returning Chicago, white gangs hunted history courses. Perhaps more Commission, created by the an unarmed Black man named home from “making the world Black Americans in the street striking, however, is the massa- Oklahoma state legislature to Terence Crutcher in 2016 as he safe for democracy,” a series of and burned their homes. Local cre’s legacy in Tulsa itself. Us- study the massacre and provide lowered his hands and reached events euphemistically dubbed authorities held Black people ing eyewitness accounts to pin- recommendations on moving into his vehicle. After being the Red Summer of 1919. Tulsa responsible for the violence, point mass burial sites of the forward, the Black community charged with first degree man- was different. The city’s Black and President Wilson refused massacre’s victims, two areas deserves reparations. Following slaughter, Shelby was acquit- residents built a prosperous requests for federal interven- with anomalies in the soil were the massacre, Black Tulsa faced ted in August of 2017, which community free from the harsh- tion and investigations. located in 2019. The excavation significant opposition while at- caused outrage among the Black er racial realities of life in the The story was the same in began in July of last year. While tempting to rebuild, especially community. While the circum- Jim Crow South. The thriving Tulsa. Encouraged by the de- archaeologists did not find bod- since the new government was stances of the Crutcher shoot- Greenwood District boasted a cisions of the Oklahoma Su- ies, they did unearth a bullet, controlled by the very people ing and the Tulsa Race Massa- population of nearly 10 thou- preme Court, which continued two pairs of shoes, and a buried who had destroyed their com- cre are distinct, the two are the sand residents, and the neigh- to uphold restrictions on voting road. In the future, excavations munity. Just as the end of the results of the same racism that borhood was complete with access to Black Americans by of Oaklawn Cemetery and “40 acres and a mule” policy dominates Tulsa today. In the movie theaters, hotels, pharma- approving grandfather clauses “The Canes,” an area near the during Reconstruction set the words of Tulsa resident and the cies, and hair salons. The com- and poll taxes, and eager to Arkansas River, are planned. precedent for present-day dis- sister of Terence Crutcher, Dr. munity’s self-sufficient business end an era of Black prosper- Culturally, the Tulsa Race parities in generational wealth Tiffany Crutcher, “To be Black district, “Black Wall Street,” ity, white mobs burned the Massacre has received new- within and outside the Black and to be Tulsan is to have your reflected Black Tulsa’s success. Greenwood District to the found attention as well—a community, the rebuilding of history erased.” Let’s change Founded by prominent Black ground. The mob looted busi- testament to the long-overdue a once burgeoning Black Tulsa that narrative once and for all. landowner Ottowa Gurley in nesses, shot Black people dead awareness the massacre is final- came at the steep price of for- Page 14 The Spectator • June 1, 2021 Opinions Reviving Political Discourse By ASHLEY LIN Justice Scalia was a staunch while on the bench, they nev- The decline in political Act, the Lowering Drugs Costs conservative known for his er criticized each other’s per- discourse can be partially at- Now Act, and the Protecting I grew up believing that po- criticism of judicial activism. sonal character or intellect and tributed to former President Americans with Preexisting litical discourse involving two Justice Ginsburg, however, was shared mutual respect. Trump’s rhetoric and tone Conditions Act, awaited debate conflicting viewpoints meant more liberal and advocated for Ronald Reagan and Tip when he spoke to those who instead. personal attacks would be pres- women’s sexual and reproduc- O’Neill had a similar relation- disagreed with him. They were Additionally, the lack of civ- ent. This idea can mostly be at- tive rights. Despite their oppos- ship despite their ideological distinct from those of previ- il discourse has reflected badly tributed to the first presidential ing views, Scalia and Ginsburg differences; Reagan wanted to ous presidents and created a on Washington, D.C. Nearly 80 debate I ever watched between had an unwavering friendship implement tax cuts, increase shift from respectful argumen- percent of Americans are con- Donald Trump and Hillary that was built off of their dif- military spending, and deregu- tation to hostile name-calling cerned about the lack of civil- Clinton in 2016. Rather than ferences rather than their simi- late the economy. As speaker and threats of retribution. He ity in politics and believe it will hearing the candidate’s differ- larities. Ginsburg once wrote in of the House, O’Neill did ev- denied that Senator McCain lead to violence. This general ent policy proposals, I heard a statement she released after erything in his power to pre- was a war hero and called him consensus that transcends par- only insults and hostile bicker- Scalia’s death that they were vent Reagan’s vision from a “loser,” called Senator Mitt ty lines is rare and shows that ing. Romney “a stone cold loser” it is an issue. Americans are Once again, I was watch- for speaking out against him, scared that the lack of true and ing the presidential debate in and told Representative Ilhan respectful political discourse 2020 when a similar instance Omar and other members of will result in negative conse- occurred. All I heard were per- the Squad, a group of progres- quences. sonal attacks where phrases like sive members of Congress, to To resolve this problem, “clown” were thrown around. return to “the totally broken politicians must start engag- Both of these debates were not and crime-infested places from ing in difficult but necessary true political discourse. which they came.” His presi- conversations about policy and This hostile attitude is not dency, more specifically his legislation that do not involve limited to the debate setting. insulting rhetoric, accelerated personal attacks and the de- In congressional and Senate the decline in true political dis- monization of each other. Ad- hearings, there is often endless course in Washington, D.C. ditionally, they must put their bickering, name-calling, and The lack of true political dis- country’s and constituents’ best bullying. The Republican and course is the reason why there interests over their party’s. Democratic Parties both have is legislative gridlock, which is Justice Scalia once said, members who are blatantly in- when legislation is passed at a “I attack ideas. I don’t attack tolerant and rude toward those slow rate, in both Congress and people.” This precedent is

on the other side. For example, Emily Young-Squire Spectator / The the Senate. When politicians what politicians need to fol- Representative Ted Yoho, a Re- refuse to engage in civilized low today. They must learn publican from Florida, called discussion and compromise, it from Justices Ginsburg and Representative Alexandria Oc- is difficult to enact impactful Scalia, Reagan and O’Neill, asio-Cortez, a Democrat from change and legislation. For ex- Obama and McCain, and the New York, a vulgar expletive ample, the House introduced, many other examples of poli- and made other insults such voted on, and passed about 400 ticians who set aside their dif- as “disgusting,” “dangerous,” bills in 2020, but 80 percent of fering beliefs to work together and “crazy” on the steps of those bills did not pass in the toward benefiting the Ameri- the Capitol in June of 2020. Senate because Majority Lead- can people. Though they do Though politicians do get leg- “different in [their] interpre- taking place. However, they er Mitch McConnell prevented not need to be the closest of islation passed, the whole pro- tation of written texts, [but] politely interacted with each them from even being debated friends, politicians must focus cess could be much more effec- one in [their] reverence for the other and had lunches together. on. As a piece of legislation’s on exchanging and listening to tive without a slew of personal Constitution and the institution Additionally, John McCain and final enactment depends on ideas, not attacking each other, attacks and hostility. [they] serve.” Despite their dis- Barack Obama, who both ran both Congress and the Senate’s to create tangible change. True Political discourse requires agreement on issues from the for president in 2008, spoke approval, the Senate could not and proper civic discourse in- cooperation, respect, and even constitutionality of abortion to positively and respectfully debate these bills when McCo- volves listening, respectfully friendship among those with judicial activism, they still had a about each other. McCain even nnell declared them “dead on responding to each other, and opposing political views. For- strong friendship because they asked Obama to deliver his eu- arrival.” Because of uncom- sometimes compromising; it mer Associate Justices Antonin were able to disagree with each logy in 2018. These respectful promising politicians, laws that does not involve viewing civil- Scalia and Ruth Bader Ginsburg other respectfully. Though they relationships between politi- would have helped a majority ity and respect as a liability and were polar opposites when it often criticized each other’s cians, however, are not seen to- of Americans, such as the Bi- weakness. came to judicial philosophy. ideas and sparred immensely day as often as they once were. partisan Background Checks A Global Response to the COVID-19 Crisis in India By PETER GOSWAMI tals in both India and Nepal thousand people. Setting up a While many foreign gov- countries have the resources are refusing all but critical pa- rural hospital in India with 25 ernments have sent supplies to provide vaccines to India. Dead bodies wash up on the tients. Cases in other countries hospital beds and medical staff to India, they must ensure the The United States has enough shores of the Ganges for other bordering India have surged, costs about $20 thousand. The aid is distributed properly. The vaccines to fully vaccinate 750 grieving families to discover. and the countries dependent crisis in rural areas is furthered United States has sent raw ma- million people, almost three People cannot burn their dead on vaccines from India cannot by how the Indian government terials for vaccines, oxygen, and times the adult population of as crematories fail to deal with receive vaccines. The effects of has restricted non-governmen- testing kits to India, but chief the United States. This number the upkeep of corpses. India the crisis in India on neighbor- tal organizations (NGOs) and ministers in several states have includes 300 million doses of reports over 4,000 deaths from ing countries, coupled with the the power of state govern- complained that they have not the AstraZeneca vaccine, which COVID-19 every day, though dangers posed by the higher risk ments. yet received anything. Foreign has not been used in the United the actual count is much higher. of transmission of the B.1.617 Prime Minister Narendra governments can pressure the States yet but could be given to The pandemic decimates rural variant, foreshadow a global Modi’s government instituted Indian government to allow India. Similar surpluses of CO- areas because of the lack of surge in cases that cannot be an amendment in September state governments to directly VID-19 vaccines exist in other access to testing, hospitals, or prevented without international of 2020 that limits the amount request aid. If these restric- Western countries. The United medical care. Many search for cooperation. On top of these of international funding NGOs tions are lifted, foreign leaders States supports waiving the empty oxygen cylinders, hoping concerns, there has also been a can rely on, requiring all chari- can converse directly with state vaccine patents until the leaders to find a way to get them filled serious undercounting of cases ties to get affidavits and notary leaders in India to map the ar- of the World Trade Organiza- up while others turn toward the and deaths in India. stamps and open bank accounts eas that are most affected in tion come to a consensus to do black market. The crisis in India Independent journalists and with the government-owned each state and to coordinate so. Therefore, we must apply continues as the government newspapers in India have relied State Bank of India. The al- providing more supplies to pressure to waive the intellec- fails to provide sufficient aid on counts from crematoriums most three million nonprofits specifically those areas. Inter- tual property rights so that all and vaccines in a country where and hospitals to get the actual in India compensate for a gov- national governments need to countries can afford to vacci- only three percent of people count for cases and deaths. The ernment that spends only 1.2 urge the Indian government to nate their people, including In- are fully vaccinated. World gov- serious undercounting is evi- percent of its gross domestic lift restrictions against NGOs dia. Doing so makes it possible ernments must assist India to denced by how the count from product on healthcare. These so that NGOs can operate to for India to create the vaccines help end this crisis. mortuaries and crematoriums is are the same NGOs that work combat the public health crisis, on its own from raw materi- Failure to do so could lead 10 times higher than the official to get treatment to rural areas especially in rural areas. More als instead of relying on doses to a resurgence of the COV- count in the state of Gujarat. and distribute supplies to ar- importantly, foreign govern- from other countries. ID-19 pandemic on the global On top of giving crucial aid eas that are facing scarcities. ments need to prioritize getting International cooperation is scale, even after many countries to India, foreign governments While Modi’s government has oxygen and testing supplies dis- necessary to fully end this pan- have curbed the spread. The need to urge Indian govern- attacked NGOs, restrictions tributed properly over the dis- demic, starting with combating World Health Organization la- ments and officials to release put in place stop state govern- tribution of vaccines, because it the crisis in India. World gov- beled the Indian variant of the accurate data on the number ments from directly requesting is necessary for India to be able ernments need to not only pro- coronavirus, B.1.617, a “variant of COVID-19 cases so people aid from foreign governments to diagnose and treat its pa- vide aid to India through oxygen of concern” and a global health can truly understand the sever- by forcing them to go through tients before it can create a vac- cylinders, testing, and vaccines, risk, stating that it is more con- ity of the crisis. Minimal access the central government. This cination plan. Even so, foreign but also make the effort to en- tagious and possibly more resis- to testing and treatment in rural problem is compounded by the governments do have the re- sure that this aid reaches the tant to the vaccine than other areas has led to further con- central government not provid- sources to help vaccinate India. people who can benefit from variants. The variant has already cerns about how accurate the ing enough information about The vaccine shortage in In- it most. International govern- spread to 43 other countries, data really is. aid distribution to state govern- dia has led to concerns that the ments have a moral imperative and countries near India have In rural India, there is only ments, which in turn stops cru- country might take 3.5 years to to help the struggling in India. started to suffer. Oxygen cyl- an average of five hospital beds cial supplies from reaching the reach herd immunity. However, inders are scarce, and hospi- and 8.6 physicians for every 10 people who need them most. the United States and other The Spectator • June 1, 2021 Page 15 Opinions The Gifted, the Talented, and the Mayoral Race By AMANDA CISSE York City schools are Black is subjective; the current G&T olds will grow up to take other exam, and it gives people more or Hispanic, but less than 10 program tests students on three exams like the SHSAT or the time to develop as students and With the June 2021 may- percent of G&T students are set-in-stone areas, but individ- Independent School Entrance people. Adding more schools oral primaries coming up, it is Black. Of the students who ual schools will have their own Exam and see the same results. or expanding the number of becoming increasingly impor- reach or surpass the cutoff unique standards, thus creating Other candidates like Scott schools in specific areas is also tant to discuss the effects of score, only four percent come disparities among schools on Stringer aim to broaden G&T a possible solution because it mayoral policies on current and from the city’s top eight poor- makes the program more acces- future high schoolers. So far, est districts. These disparities sible for all communities. These candidates have taken strong are not because these students solutions are less ideological stances on the SHSAT, police are any less gifted, but rather and more focused on enriching in schools, and screened admis- because of deeper structural the program. If these reforms sions from all application sys- issues. Schools in low-income are successful, then students in tems to reform the New York neighborhoods, many of which these programs will still grow educational system. As Stuyves- are predominantly Black and up to take similar tests, but ant students, we know these Hispanic, are less likely to in- with fewer disparities. A more issues well and are affected by form students of the exam diverse and accessible program them daily. However, many and provide less support and means that there will be more problems with the NYC educa- preparation for it. Additionally, low-income and minority stu- tion system stem from further it tests students who have only dents attending better high back than one might think: the been in the education system schools and colleges. Successful Gifted and Talented (G&T) for about a year, which is hardly reformation of this program program. enough time to develop aca- and the education system in The program starts at the demically. This lack of support general will make great strides age of four or five, when -stu is more prevalent in schools in equality and access for all. dents take a series of tests, with less funding because they The best solution is to ad- and depending on their per- can neither prepare their stu- dress the core of the problem. formance, they may receive an dents as well as those in richer Jasmine Wang Spectator / The All students have different op- offer from the collection of neighborhoods, nor offer the portunities, rates of poverty, 103 specific programs around same opportunities. neighborhoods, values, and the city targeted toward high- Candidates like Maya Wiley, backgrounds. Achieving com- achieving students. These tests Dianne Morales, Ray McGuire, munity equity and then equal- measure students’ verbal, quan- and others have released plans ity is the way to confront this titative, and nonverbal skills, all to reform the G&T program. on a more structural level. This of which are meant to predict Wiley, for example, plans to process might look like adding future academic success. eliminate G&T and instead al- what is considered gifted. Dif- programs by adding more funding to the education system Even so, this exam does low individual schools to create ferent schools also have differ- schools to the program and to improve the enrichment of not do a great job at determin- their own programs for their ent funding and resources to beginning testing later on. Ray all schools. It might be expand- ing who is gifted or talented. “gifted” students. This propos- put into creating their own pro- McGuire wants to expand the ing G&T programs to make Administering exams that can al, however, may be worse than grams. Additionally, eliminating G&T program in Black and them more accessible. It might change someone’s life trajec- our current program because the program also “hides away” Hispanic communities, create be focusing on public service tory at the age of four is not individual schools will have too the disparities found in G&T testing opportunities for both facilities and support programs a way to find NYC’s brightest much free reign in determining schools instead of tackling them first graders and younger - stu in underserved areas. It’s about students. Rather, it creates a di- who is gifted. Eliminating the fully. Eliminating the G&T pro- dents, and make the assessment changing the way people think vide between those who have G&T program on a city scale gram does not change the fact more holistic. Opening up test- and the way we measure “gift- access to the right resources and implementing it on an indi- that some schools have more ing windows for multiple ages is edness” or “excellence.” Maybe and information to take the test vidual level is not a solution to resources than others. The dis- a better solution as it gives peo- then, we can find New York’s and those who do not. About the problem, but rather only a parities will continue to be pres- ple a greater chance of finding brightest in a truly meritocratic 70 percent of students in New cavalier misdirection. “Gifted” ent when these same four-year- out about and preparing for the way. Yes, It Is Hot in Here By GULAM I would pull back my hijab a how I feel. Yet before I could words to reply. I understood Am I being oppressed? I chose MONAWARAH little to show the tiniest bit of even say a word, my teacher that people want to help hi- to bear the brunt of endless hair without actually taking it swooped in and said, “I don’t jabis like me, but the constant questions, comments, and I began wearing a hijab at off. I would brush the loose like where this conversation is comments got on my nerves. fears. But on that university eight years old. My family and ends of my scarf away to show going. Either you talk about Anytime I wanted to have a trip, I realized that no matter I were in our car on our way just a little bit of skin. I would something else, or you don’t meaningful conversation with how hard I try, some people to the supermarket when my beg my mother to wrap my hi- talk to her at all.” My heart my peers about why I wear the just cannot be convinced I am dad announced that I needed jab as Congresswoman Ilhan shattered, and my friends did hijab, someone would swoop proud of my culture. to start wearing one. It felt Omar does sometimes, where not look me in the eye for the in to “protect” me. It made me From then on, I felt less like a strange time to make only the back of the head is rest of the trip. feel conscious of what people conscious about my hijab and such a decision, but nonethe- covered. However, my experiences would ask me. I never wanted started to reflect on what it less, I was excited. A week meant to me. My hijab is ex- later, I went to school in my actly what it is designed to be: first hijab: it was the color of a symbol of my religion, faith, pearls and had small rhine- and morals. A lot of my peers stones around the forehead believe that modesty automati- and back—the hijabi starter cally equals oppression, but pack. My young, naive mind it does not. A lot of hijabis dreamed of compliments and would agree that modesty is smiles, but instead, I received simply a personality trait, just nonchalance and a lot of con- as much kindness or generos- cern. It broke my heart when It took me a long time to come to terms with ity is. I am modest, and my hi- my teachers asked if every- jab reflects that about me. thing was all right at home in- my culture and realize the answers to the The same can be said for stead of asking me what I was many Muslim women across wearing. Adults asked me if questions people asked when they saw my the nation. Over 80 percent of my father “did” this to me. But American hijabis say that they I did not understand what they hair covered: Am I okay? wear a hijab as an act of piety, meant, thinking that they were to be identified as a Muslim, or asking about the rhinestones Am I being oppressed? for modesty. Only one percent that fell off. are actually forced to do so by For the remainder of el- a family member. We under- ementary school, some class- stand that people are trying to mates made comments on my help, but insinuating that our hijab, mentioning how much own family members are try- prettier I looked before. Oth- ing to control and harm us can ers made the classic “Is it hot lead to confusion and frustra- in there?” jokes. It was funny tion for Muslim girls. until the comments turned I do not mind that my fa- hurtful, and I became tired of I distinctly remember a in middle school redefined people to worry about me, ther made this decision for me, the jokes. class trip in seventh grade to what the hijab meant to me. but it was wrong of me to put and I do not mind hiding my For years, I spent my life a beautiful, prestigious uni- Friends of mine would pull aside my confidence for their hair. The hijab means so much trying to embrace my hijab versity. My friends and I were me aside privately and ask if I peace of mind. more to me than a fashion while others did not believe I at the front of the loud, chat- truly wanted this. “This what?” Despite my current pride statement. It is representative could be happy with it. Some tering group of kids, and we I would ask. “Well… that. in wearing a hijab, it took me of my religion and my dedica- thought my hijab was an in- began to tease each other. My Don’t you want to show your a long time to come to terms tion, so I will gladly wear it. My sult to feminism and freedom friend asked me why I wear a hair sometimes?” they would with my culture and realize hijab and my religion are not and that I was brainwashed to hijab, and I was eager to tell say. Their faces would fall, and the answers to the questions a symbol of oppression. They believe I did not need saving. him why, since it was the first their hands would fidget, and people asked when they saw are my pride. So, I tried to appease them. time someone cared to ask I could never muster the right my hair covered: Am I okay? Page 16 The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Science The Importance of Global Space Cooperation SCIENCEBEAT Zhurong, China’s first Mars By ARYANA SINGH mize the risks to people and precautions set, there have been to entire nonfunctional space- rover, successfully landed property on Earth of re-entries several historical incidents in- crafts. The US government es- on the red planet on May 14 The China National Space of space objects and maximize volving other countries. Ironi- timates that 200 to 400 objects and is currently searching for Administration (CNSA) transparency regarding those cally, NASA’s first space station, fall into Earth’s atmosphere ice beneath the planet’s sur- launched the Long March-5B operations. It is clear that China Skylab, fell out of orbit in 1979 every year as a result of inci- face. rocket on April 29, carrying the is failing to meet responsible into the Indian Ocean and parts dents, similar to the recent Long Tianhe module, the first piece standards regarding their space of Western Australia. The So- March one. One such example is of their upcoming space sta- debris.” U.S. Defense Secretary viet Union, another major space the destruction of the Fengyun- As climate change causes tion intended to be the Chinese Lloyd Austin also emphasized power, was also responsible for 1C satellite that produced thou- more forest fires, zombie “ counterpart to the International the importance of creating re- dangerous space behavior as sands of pieces of debris, all of fires” that smolder under- Space Station. Several days later, quirements for those who op- fragments of the Salyut 7 space which are still orbiting the plan- ground and re-emerge dur- debris from the rocket measur- erate in space. The recent Long station fell over Argentina in et. These pieces of debris of- ing especially warm summers ing 98 feet, longer than a semi- March-5B incident is proof that 1991. Luckily, most of it burned ten travel at tremendously high may become more common. truck, re-entered Earth’s atmo- there must be safety standards up during its descent. speeds, sometimes even reach- sphere and landed in the Indian and regulations in order to en- It is fortunate that there ing 18,000 miles per hour, seven Ocean. Those in charge of the sure the safety of Earth as a were no severe casualties in times faster than a bullet. This MDMA, the active com- mission had hoped that the de- whole. these previous incidents. Unfor- makes even small debris hazard- pound in ecstasy, may be on bris would fully burn up upon Currently, one of the few tunately, laws are typically made ous to manned and unmanned its way to being an FDA- entering Earth’s atmosphere guidelines set by the United Na- after a tragedy compels change. spacecraft. In fact, the Interna- approved drug as Phase or land in an ocean. Even with tions (UN) regarding the behav- Coming up with rules to ensure tional Space Station (ISS) had 3 clinical trials have shown oceans covering about 71 per- ior of countries in space is the safety will prove to be a chal- to perform 26 maneuvers using that the drug, combined cent of our planet, the risk of Outer Space Treaty. A key prin- lenge, but such a task is essential small boosters in its 20-year his- with intensive talk therapy, debris falling on inhabited land ciple of it is that, “States shall to prevent damage to property tory to avoid space debris. Cur- can offer significant relief and causing property damage be liable for damage caused by and people foremost. An im- rently, NASA has implemented from post-traumatic stress or even casualties was still too their space objects.” If China’s portant first step is to require a process to limit the produc- disorder. high. Long March-5B rocket landed space companies and agencies tion of more debris, but only on Unlike other countries, on another nation’s territory, to come up with a reentry plan a national and not a global scale. China mysteriously sent its en- the Chinese government would when necessary and also verify More regulations regarding re- tire rocket into orbit instead of have had to pay reparations for its precision. Creating and fund- entry would also help ease the minimal risk. They must ensure letting it predictably fall back the damage caused. However, ing global programs that will space debris crisis. that danger to civilians around to Earth immediately after dis- this treaty is part of a reactive do so is vital. Once these basic Nations across the globe the world is nothing higher than charging its payload. The Na- approach, addressing disaster rules are put into place, detailed must come together to ensure zero. It is better to spend time tional Aeronautics and Space after its occurrence rather than regulations should follow. the safety of future space travel and money now pushing for Administration (NASA) then preventing it. In the UN’s more Another crucial issue is and exploration. Space agencies proactive space safety laws than censured China for its irrespon- general Space Law, a majority space junk, the 170 million piec- cannot allow an uncontrolled it is to continue a reactive policy sible actions. NASA Admin- of the regulations are similar in es of man-made debris orbiting reentry of any space vehicle that risks countries paying the istrator Sen. Bill Nelson said, nature. around Earth that range from into Earth’s atmosphere to save price of carelessness with lost “Spacefaring nations must mini- With no proper global safety less than one millimeter wide money and run a seemingly lives and humiliation.

Cement Leaves More Than a Gray Mark By ANDY CHEN bound to jeopardize the Paris ing, and cooling are responsible ment used to create concrete. could reverse carbon emissions Agreement’s targets for climate for less than 10 percent. There- Not only that, CO2NCRETE during the creation of cement. Cement is the most com- change. fore, many researchers are look- may directly reduce carbon While many innovative solu- monly used man-made mate- The first step in reducing ing for ways to reduce the emis- emissions produced in power tions are arising to combat car- rial. From forming sidewalks emissions in the cement in- sions from clinker production plants and factories through bon emissions in the cement in- and roads to impressive build- dustry is understanding how or even from the entire manu- carbon upcycling. dustry, there are still challenges. ings, this material is an essential manufacturing cement creates facturing process itself. Other researchers are try- The carbon industry lacks the component of modern con- emissions. The manufacturing To do so, a research team ing to take advantage of the incentive to change and adopt struction. In fact, the Sydney process begins by grinding and from the University of Califor- fact that concrete, a building these new technologies. Tra- Opera House, the Lotus Tem- crushing raw materials such as nia, Los Angeles, is developing a material with cement as a com- ditional Portland cement is a ple in Delhi, and the grandiose limestone and clay. The crushed product called “CO2NCRETE” ponent, has the ability to soak reliable and safe building mate- Pantheon in Rome were all ar- materials are then blended with to combat carbon emissions up carbon dioxide. Though the rial, while many of the newer chitectural feats made possible ash or iron ore and mixed in a from the cement manufacturing absorption of carbon dioxide substances are less thoroughly by cement. However, cement researched. Because of this, the has left much more than a gray introduction of newer materials mark on infrastructures around for the construction of impor- the world; it has left a significant tant infrastructures is subject to carbon footprint as well. much concern about safety and According to Chatham reliability. Additionally, using House, over four billion metric these new materials requires ap- tons of cement are produced proval from regulatory groups, globally every year, amounting which is difficult to get. With to approximately eight percent the growing global population, of annual global CO2 emis- demands for affordable homes sions. This makes the cement are increasing, which will in- industry the second-largest car- crease the consumption of ce- bon emitter, after the steel and ment and result in more carbon iron industry. Some estimates emissions. even predict that as the global However, all is not lost. population grows and demands Despite the cement sector’s re- increase, cement production luctance to change, the rising may rise by 23 percent by 2050. concern for climate change has The Paris Agreement, a global helped raise acceptance of ce- treaty of 197 members ratified ment alternatives. CEMEX is a in 2016, lays down the ground- leading figure in carbon reduc- work to combat climate change. tion in the cement industry and The treaty aims to lower global has supported the development greenhouse gas emissions back Anna Ast / The Spectator of climate-friendly infrastruc- to healthy levels by limiting kiln at extremely high tempera- process. CO2NCRETE uses a is slow, occurring over decades, ture around the world. Linke- global warming to two degrees tures. The resulting ingredients process known as “carbon up- it is possible that a significant dIn is another company that

Celsius, at most. To reach the undergo calcination, a process cycling” to convert CO2 from amount of carbon emissions is developing a carbon-neutral temperature goal set by the that extracts calcium oxide and industrial activities in factories released during calcination can technology to reduce emissions Paris Agreement, by 2030, the carbon dioxide and produces and power plants into carbon- be absorbed. A Nature Geosci- from cement. One can be a part cement industry will need to a clinker, a sphere-like solid. neutral cement. There is no pro- ence paper in 2016 revealed that of this movement by raising reduce its yearly carbon emis- When the clinker is cooled, it cessing required, meaning the concrete has absorbed 43 per- awareness about climate change sions by 16 percent. Conse- is ground and mixed with ma- CO2 conversion to this product cent of the original emissions and its effect on the world. Fun- quently, cement production has terials like gypsum and lime- can occur right at the site of released during the creation of draising for and supporting CE- become an increasing concern stone to produce cement. The industrial activities. As a result, cement globally. Researchers are MEX, LinkedIn, or other large for scientists and cement pro- calcination step accounts for a this more eco-friendly cement developing methods to improve organizations fighting against ducers alike, since the current shocking 90 percent of emis- could potentially replace Port- and speed up this process of ab- climate change can change the state of the cement industry is sions, while transporting, grind- land cement, the traditional ce- sorption. In the future, concrete world for the better. The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Page 17 Science

Looking to Nature to Solve our Problems By SUBAAH SYED flying machine on the anatomy efficient manner. tures are examples of how hu- apply what we learn about ani- of birds. In the present day, we As technology and our un- mans have built upon animals’ mals in practical uses. However, As surprising as it may also see biomimicry in architec- derstanding of the world around evolved properties and incor- this involves testing animals, like sound, Japan’s bullet train was ture, such as the Lotus Temple us become more advanced, new porated them into products hu- rats, hamsters, and even apes, not developed by human power in India and the Beijing Nation- problems arise, and scientists mans can use. with certain potentially harm- alone. The aerodynamic struc- al Stadium in China. must tackle more complex and One success story of us- ful drugs and chemicals. Other ture of the train, which al- Even during the COVID-19 technical issues. In these cir- ing physico-chemical properties times, animals are poached for lows for speeds over 200 miles pandemic, observing nature cumstances, empiricism, the from nature is Sharklet Technol- medicinal benefits that can be per hour, was inspired by the played a key role in develop- reliance solely on laboratory ex- ogies, a manufacturing company false, especially for traditional pointed beak of the kingfisher. ing eco-friendly and effec- tive periments, can only go so far. To that used shark scales as a ref- and alternative medicine. These This train is just one of many equipment, most solve these issues, opti- erence to create a revolutionary applications are a stark contrast examples of how nature is a notably when mizing time manage- fabric with special properties. to the environmentally friendly valuable asset to the develop- there was a ment, resources, The tooth-like shark scale den- methodology of biomimicry. By ment of modern technology. nationwide and money is crit- ticles are evolved not only to de- using biomimicry, we take the Moving into the 21st century, shortage of ical, which is crease drag but also to be resis- admirable characteristics of the scientists have been looking to- diagnostic where na- tant to biofouling, the buildup natural systems around us and ward a system that has existed nasal swabs. ture comes of bacteria and microorganisms. apply them to our lives through even before human civilization. To solve the into play. This attribute paved the way for technology, architecture, and There is hope for the future if shortage, sci- Observing the creation of the Sharklet, a other areas. Unlike animal ex- we acknowledge and emulate entists looked to- the interac- plastic sheet that mimics the perimentation or poaching, bio- the model that has existed for ward the unique tions between or- pattern of shark scale denticles mimicry does not harm living billions of years: nature. features of cat ganisms and their and impedes bacterial growth, organisms. Rather, it admires Biomimicry is the scientific tongues to produce niches in an envi- all without antibiotics or addi- them from afar and implements approach to putting nature’s more efficient and func- ronment serves as an tional chemicals. Sharklet is now their unique properties as a lessons into practice, mainly to tional swabs. Richard No- exemplar for design. used in hospitals for antibacte- blueprint for new designs. solve complex human problems. vak, an engineer at Har- Shirley Tan Spectator / The Nature-inspired design goes rial resistance materials, such Understanding and using Though the idea of incorporat- vard University, noted the beyond aesthetic purposes and as gowns and shields. Its abil- nature’s processes in design, ing concepts from nature for our papillae on cat tongues, structural similarities. It delves ity to reduce touch transfer by construction, and biomedical benefit has existed since ancient which they use not only into the mechanical and physi- 99 percent encourages people applications is not only environ- times, the term “biomimicry” is to trap fluids, but also co-chemical features of natural to use Sharklet technology for mentally friendly but also helps only a couple of decades old. to bring back the flu- systems. The current physico- doorknobs, elevator buttons, more people become aware of Throughout history, biomim- ids, usually when chemical features of natural sys- and other high touch surfaces. nature’s intelligence. By realiz- icry has been a significant part grooming. Using tems are a result of millions of This ultimately may be integral ing the value of nature and its of revolutionary discoveries and this fact to their years of evolution and natural in preventing the next virus out- role in developing our future, inventions. advantage, Novak and his selection. The game of survival break. we gain a deeper appreciation The first powered aircraft, team created a swab that had of the fittest leads organisms Though there are other ways for the natural world and a sense built in 1903 by Wilbur and Or- characteristics similar to those to develop more complex fea- in which people use nature for of responsibility in protecting ville Wright, was based on ob- of a cat’s tongue: it could col- tures and better adapt to their their benefit, they are mostly ecosystems and organisms. In- serving birds in flight. Centuries lect the mucus of an individual’s surroundings. Qualities such as harmful to the environment, and stead of exploiting it, we should before, in 1488, Leonardo da nose and release it into the test night vision and additional lay- the benefits are one-sided. Ani- start looking toward nature for Vinci based his designs for the tube, all in an inexpensive and ers of fur in colder tempera- mal testing is one area where we answers. Beyond Bitcoin: The Big Gamble By SATHIRTHA MONDAL system that would eliminate the to lose. turer, both founded in the early continues to rise, it could soon intermediary role banks have in As Bitcoin set records with 1900s. become the fifth-largest carbon Chances are that you’ve transactions. The system would its recent peaks, other crypto- Recently, cryptocurrencies dioxide emitter worldwide. heard of crypto, the latest in- function without trust and al- currencies gained popularity as have taken a hit after news dis- As a result of the increas- vestment fad. Crypto, short low transactions without going well. A novel cryptocurrency seminated that “mining” for ing environmental impacts, for cryptocurrency, is a decen- through a financial institution. named Internet Computer in- cryptocurrency, like Bitcoin, companies like Tesla, which has tralized digital currency that is Nonetheless, with Nakato- creased its market value to over is immensely harmful to the invested billions of dollars in secured using cryptography, a moto’s disappearance and the cryptocurrency, have suspend- computerized encrypted code. cryptocurrency’s initial volatile ed their use of it. Tesla’s CEO Since the beginning of the value, its new system only drew also announced the company’s year, the market value of cryp- skepticism. As its price surged pursuit of alternative crypto- tocurrencies has soared nearly over time, Bitcoin shifted from currencies that use less than 150 percent from $1 trillion to replacing the financial system to one percent of the energy that over $2.48 trillion. Investing in being absorbed by it, becom- Bitcoin consumes. These back- crypto has become a craze that ing merely another investment tracks have taken their toll on has taken mainstream media by vehicle. Incidentally, the Inter- the world’s largest cryptocur- storm, luring many to invest in nal Revenue Service recently rencies. $365.85 billion were various “coins” like Bitcoin and declared that cryptocurrencies, wiped from the market for Bit- Ethereum to potentially expand such as Bitcoin, are property, coin and its price plummeted 17 their wealth. Many have not meaning that gains and transac- percent. Following the Tesla ac- hesitated to jump on the hype tions in those cryptocurrencies tion, Dogecoin and Ethereum train, believing it to be the fu- can now be taxed. also plunged 34 percent and ture of money. However, Bitcoin’s ascent 12 percent, respectively. The Crypto’s run-up has prompt- has not been without cost, performances highlighted the ed a great deal of “if only” causing many experts and ana- sensitivity of cryptocurrencies, thinking. If you bought $1,000 lysts to be bearish on the cryp- obliterating the confidence they worth of Bitcoin, the world’s tocurrency’s fate. One of the had recently bolstered in inves- largest cryptocurrency, a decade greatest and most common tors. prior, the investment would risks of the investment is the Cryptocurrency is believed amount to over $287 million sharp crashes that may follow to be the future of currency, today. Since its launch in 2009, drastic surges in price. Addi- with fellow tech-optimists call- Bitcoin has crossed $63,000 at tionally, its definition as a digital Ying Chen / The Spectator ing on others to embrace decen- its peak and is currently val- asset means that it is not kept $45 billion just a day after its environment. To mine crypto- tralized and “trust-less” money. ued at $50,700. In the past year in a physical wallet; rather, it is debut. Dogecoin, a cryptocur- currency, a miner must solve Especially for beginners enticed alone, this individual cryptocur- stored in a digital wallet, which rency based on a 2013 meme, complex math problems, which by the surges but blind to the rency spiked nearly 400 percent. can be web-based or hardware- surged nearly 14,000 percent requires immense electrical and plummets, crypto has become Bitcoin, however, or any based. This makes it prone to this year alone, with spikes cred- computational power. In fact, another investing fad to make other cryptocurrency, was not online hacking or technological ited to tweets by Elon Musk, Bitcoin mining uses more elec- or break a fortune. Though its created to become a part of the failure that can erase a wallet of the self-proclaimed “Dogefa- tricity annually than the entire roller-coaster volatility garnered current global financial system; Bitcoins with no recourse. Since ther.” Musk even accepted the population of Argentina does. significant skepticism after an- it was meant to replace it. Laid Bitcoin is not regulated by the meme-inspired cryptocurrency A single Bitcoin transaction other inevitable crash, many be- out in a whitepaper under the government, it can also easily as payment for Teslas. The rise consumes 1200 kilowatt-hours lieve in cryptocurrency and con- pseudonymous Satoshi Naka- be a vehicle for fraud, including in cryptocurrency’s traction has of power, more than the aver- tinue to fuel its burgeoning. The moto, Bitcoin was created in re- scams that have soared in num- also paved the way for the ab- age American household uses takeover has been hindered by sponse to the financial crisis of ber by nearly 1,000 percent in surd upsurge of the market val- in a month. The rising price its absorption into the current 2008, a worldwide disaster that the past few months. It is also ue of exchanges. Coinbase, an of Bitcoin has attracted more financial system and reports of led to economic decline and limited in its applications due to exchange platform for crypto- miners, contributing to a co- its detrimental effects on the nearly brought down the global vendors’ unwillingness to take currency founded in 2012, has lossal surge in carbon emis- environment. Regardless, cryp- financial system. A significant these risks. Appropriately, ex- amassed a market value surpass- sions of 40 million tons in the tocurrencies’ bullish runs have cause was the global depen- perts suggest erring on the side ing those of veteran giants like past two years, surpassing the proven one thing: it is a hype dence on banks. Nakamoto pro- of caution and investing only as BP, an oil company, and Gen- carbon emissions by American train running at full speed with posed a decentralized payment much money as one can afford eral Motors, an auto manufac- Airlines. If the price of Bitcoin no intention of stopping. Page 18 The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Science

Is Cultured Meat Ready for the Market?

By MAHIR HOSSAIN 1961, meaning that resources for a burger patty. This process for the meat’s environmental degree project, he converted used in meat production like of creating in-vitro meat re- upsides. In-vitro meat is severely chicken feathers into an edible Many of us have probably water and hay will continue be- quires both time and precision, underfunded, making mass pro- product using a chemical pro- read “The Omnivore’s Dilem- ing used up at staggering rates with processes like oxygen dif- duction difficult. cess to heat and cool the feath- ma” in English class to under- unless alternative meats that use fusion across cell membranes in Additionally, animals other ers with chemicals that broke stand the roots of the foods fewer resources are introduced. vitro requiring complex machin- than cows can have their meat keratin’s bonds and formed a on our dinner plate. Outside of Additionally, cattle ery. Additionally, meat created cultured. For example, cultured protein-rich meat substitute class readings, however, we rare- farming is harmful not only in-vitro has difficulty matching fish meat can counteract - over once it came out of the freezer. ly think about what goes into to the environment but also the nu- tritional fishing, a problem that leads to He used keratinase, an enzyme our meat. Our brains only focus to itself. Large amounts smaller harvests and food capable of breaking the bonds on eating the burger in front of of cow manure security issues, in keratin, to make the feather us, not the antibiotics slipped produced and prevent digestible, and another process into the cow or the machinery by Con- countries called acid hydrolysis to further that flips cows upside-down centrated that de- cleave keratin molecules. This, while they helplessly scream. Animal pend along with water, allows the The human population has Feed- o n “meat” to be solidified into its grown exponentially over the ing Op- fishing desired shape. Making this meat last few centuries and contin- erations from substitute is not the only project ues to grow rapidly. Human- (CAFOs) suf- Kittibanthorn has undertaken: ity may soon have to consider can con- fering he also managed to make carb- whether we have enough re- taminate wa- severe free pasta and wraps and protein sources to support all humans ter, poison cows, economic con- bar biscuits from feathers—new and whether climate change or and lead to intestinal sequences. In-vitro fish takes on nutrition in the form of poor agricultural techniques will damage and cholera in humans. Rachel Chuong / The Spectator meat can be used similarly to in- food substitutes. mark our own Earth’s demise. The environment and our pop- value of natural burgers, with vitro cow meat, taking the form We currently are not ready Some countries have reached a ulation are at stake, but there is micronutrients like zinc and of fillets and fish sticks rather to start placing meat created in- demographic transition stage, a solution. copper needing to be artificially than burgers. Like its cow coun- vitro onto our shelves because where the consumption and de- Scientists have created added. Despite these down- terpart, the process of creating of its high price, low efficiency, mand for meat have drastically cultured meat, which is meat sides, the relatively little emis- in-vitro fish meat lacks efficien- and demand for great precision. increased. Demographic transi- grown from cells in a laboratory. sions resulting from creating in- cy, with one lab cultivating only However, the small projects tion is broken down into four The process of creating in-vitro vitro meat still allow it to be an 10 fillets in two months. In that that involve creating sustainable parts, the first of which has high meat takes a cow’s muscle fibers attractive experimental process case, fillets would have to be meat serve as proof of concepts numbers of deaths and births. and incubates them in blood that scientists are willing to con- made at least a year beforehand that can be improved on in the As the death rate drops, the that is designed to mimic the tribute time and money for. in order to truly make marketing future. Should scientists be able population slowly edges toward conditions in a cow’s body. That However, the patty itself in-vitro fish meat effective. to thoroughly replicate all the exponential growth—the phase muscle fiber is broken down into has an enormous price tag. The Soruwat Kittibanthorn, a bits and pieces of a burger patty many countries are entering individual fat and muscle cells first lab-grown burger patty cost design student, devised an al- in the lab, we all might be able to right now. Meat production in and continues to duplicate until around $300,000, a price that no ternative method of “culturing” forget the guilt of harming our Asia has increased 15-fold since enough muscle tissue is formed consumer is willing to pay, even meat. As part of his master’s own planet.

Fukushima: Japan Approves to Release Radioactive Wastewater into the Pacific Ocean

By DONGNI (HELLEN) and explosions at the site. Sys- radiation remains relatively low, a long speculated plan to release biomagnified, at successive tro- LUO tems at the nuclear plant de- the long-term effects of radia- more than a million metric tons phic levels. This is because the tected the earthquake and auto- tion are unknown. The Japanese of contaminated water into the treatment process involves put- Whether we are studying matically shut down the nuclear government confirmed the first Pacific Ocean two years from ting the water through a com- low-carbon electricity genera- reactors, while emergency diesel acknowledged death caused by now. It claims to have no envi- plex chain of filters known as tion in an environmental science generators turned on to keep lung cancer from prolonged ra- ronmental impact since it will be the Advanced Liquid Process- class or participating in discus- coolant pumping around the diation exposure in 2018, where greatly diluted and processed to ing System (ALPS). Though this sions around climate change, cores. The large tsunami, the employee who died was in remove its radioactive elements system can capture 62 kinds of the use of nuclear power tends however, knocked out the charge of measuring the radia- to keep the water far above safe- radionuclides, it is not able to fil- to be at the center of contro- nuclear plant’s protective tion of the first reactor after its ty standards. However, about 70 ter out tritium, which is known versy. In some cases, nuclear seawalls, flooding the diesel meltdown. percent of the water has exceed- to be harmless at trace amounts power is considered one of generators and circuits of Since the accident, the ac- ed permitted discharge limits for since it emits one of the lowest the cleanest and most sustain- three operating reactors’ cumulating radioactive water contamination. It is said that the radiation doses of any radionu- able energy sources to generate emergency core cooling has been pumped nonstop plan cannot be postponed any clide. Besides tritium, however, electricity, primarily because it systems inside the plant. through the three reactors further, as the storage tanks will several more dangerous isotopes does not emit carbon dioxide Shortly after, the buildup to cool the melted fuel and likely run out of capacity next with longer radiative lifetimes— while operating. Though build- of hydrogen gas pro- prevent debris from over- year and it is an unavoidable including ruthenium, cobalt, ing these power sources involves duced by the exposed heating again or causing step to make the environment strontium, and plutonium— trace amounts of carbon diox- nuclear rods blew further damage. The surrounding the plant safe for may sometimes slip through the ide emissions, such emissions off three of the contaminated water residents to live in. Meanwhile, ALPS treatment and can incor- are minuscule in comparison reactor build- has then been col- the area filled with these tanks porate into the marine ecosys- to those released by fossil fuel ings’ roots lected and stored in must be cleared before building tem. plants. However, because of lim- and released more than 1,000 new facilities to remove other The safety concerns and ited supplies of their fuel, ura- radioactive large steel tanks remaining wastes. long-term effects of the dis- nium, and the potential disposal materials crammed onto Environmental groups and charge are still a matter of de- of highly radioactive wastes into into the the Fukushima neighboring countries, however, bate. Some argue that there are the environment, the future of Pacific campus, along are opposed to this plan. Chi- alternative approaches to this nuclear power remains uncer- Ocean with other nese scientists have described controversial problem, such as tain on a larger scale. In fact, and the leftover ma- the proposal as irresponsible dumping the water into con- several accidents involving ex- atmo- terials such and called for Japan to reexam- crete pits and expanding capac- plosions and partial or complete sphere. as radioac- ine the issue. South Korea has ity to store the water on land or meltdowns of nuclear plants T h e tive sludge expressed deep concerns that underground. Others still insist have occurred over the past few overheat- and debris. the water release plan could sig- that discharging to the sea is decades, resulting in prolonged ing of Tokyo Elec- nificantly affect the safety of its the only realistic solution left. environmental effects due to these three tric Power country’s population. An envi- Despite these controversies, pollution and an increased risk reactors ful- Co. (TEPCO) ronmental group called Green- the Fukushima disaster has in- of exposure to radiation. ly melted the estimates that peace has also raised attention to creased public fear throughout A well-known nuclear ac- cores, resulting it will take at least this large-scale opposition from the world over the reliability of cident took place at the Fuku- in a nuclear melt- three to four decades a majority of residents living in nuclear power. Overall, the hu- shima Daiichi Power Plant on down. Nada Hameed / The Spectator to completely dispose Fukushima and broader Japan. man population still has a long March 11, 2011, when an im- There were no reported im- of the radioactive water from Japanese fishing industries way to go in developing more mense offshore earthquake of mediate deaths during the nucle- the wrecked power plant, re- and marine scientists have also sustainable energy generation 9.0 magnitude caused a devas- ar accident, but over 16 workers trieve undamaged fuel, clean up turned against the decision due methods, as well as understand- tating tsunami across the north- were injured and about 130,000 the remaining resolidified fuel to its potential impact on fisher- ing the lessons learned from the west coast of Japan, destroying people were evacuated as a pre- debris, and decommission the ies. They are worried that certain Fukushima disaster that could coastal habitats while triggering ventative measure. Though sci- reactors. isotopes can be ingested by fish help prevent future nuclear ac- a series of equipment failures entists believe that the risk of Japan has recently approved populations and consumed, or cidents. The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Page 19 Arts and Entertainment Thirty Years of Loveless: The Past, Present, Music Playlist and Future of My Bloody Valentine By LEVI SIMON and and The Velvet Underground. out of harsh feedback squeals. rock, using the tremolo haze MADISON KIM However, when MBV first As the tracks progress, the of shoegaze as a tool to create emerged onto the British post- molten melodies seem to depth for their hooks and riffs, Study Rarely is an artistic punk scene, they didn’t make take a languorous, sultry trip and artists like Candy Claws achievement so widely beloved much of an impression. It wasn’t through the depths of your and Lush combine shoegaze in its niche that even after until the release of their iconic consciousness, riding on the with pop to convey the Playlist generations of experimentation, EP “You Made Me Realise” noisy waves of harmony while exuberance of childhood and it retains relevance. But in 1988 that Valentine would washing out the crevices in your sexuality, respectively. The list By THE ARTS & “Loveless” by the indie band define their own abrasive, rich brain that many other albums try of manifestations that Shields’s ENTERTAINMENT My Bloody Valentine (MBV), is style with one of Shields’ most and fail to reach. This guitar tone ideas have taken even extends to the definition of timeless. This unique developments: the “glide is the focus of “Loveless” and black metal with artists like Alcest DEPARTMENT year marks the 30th anniversary guitar” technique. Glide guitar is takes center stage. The vocals and and Deafheaven, and ambient of My Bloody Valentine’s the heavy use of a tremolo bar drums sit low in the mix, mostly with artists like Loveliescrushing With the impending AP influential masterpiece that still while strumming that results in serving to add mood. The lyrics and Jefre Cantu-Ledesma. exam and finals season resonates with almost every a wavering, round pitch. They are nearly inaudible, save bits and MBV’s most direct spiritual coming up, here’s a rock-based music circle. Its played around with their new pieces of phrases, yet they don’t prodigées are two alt rockers: compilation of lowkey revolutionary guitar techniques, formula for a few years, coming need anything more: the guitar Billy Corgan of The Smashing ethereal soundscapes, and up with some excellent results speaks for itself. While these Pumpkins and Courtney Love of songs to listen to during surging riffs have captured the in the process. Their gritty, lo- layers of sound seem complex at Hole, who have cited Shields as your last minute cram. hearts of millions, and for good fi, punk-inspired debut album first listen, Shields aimed to use their greatest influences. Corgan reason. Kevin Shields was so “Isn’t Anything” (1988) is one of “very simple, minimal effects” even admitted that his song devoted to achieving perfection the best shoegaze albums ever. when composing “Loveless”. “Daydream” is ripped off from that he famously spent nearly Their subsequent EPs, “Glider” It is breathtaking that with just MBV. $500.000 of his label’s money (1990) and “Tremolo” (1991), rudimentary tools, the band The future of My Bloody on the production of the album, compound upon the sharded, members are able to flirt with Valentine is looking bright. Chateau (Feel Alright) tweaking every aspect of the vivid psychedelia that Shields the dimensions of sound–– Though they broke up shortly Djo recording to fit his grand vision would soon master on their masterfully blending, warping, after the release of their most Alternative until he had created the Paragon magnum opus. and contorting each note to classic project and had a two- Project in what would become “Loveless” is the essence of create a composition that layers decade hiatus, they returned with Donna ‘shoegaze.’ But to tell his story shoegaze. The term “shoegaze” the wavy, settling mist of their a solid entry to the shoegaze The Lumineers right, one must go back to the comes from a concert review vocals. canon in 2013 titled “m b v.” Americana / Folk beginning. that referred to the guitarist’s Over the years, shoegazers In March of this year, the band Irish guitarist Kevin Shields tendency to stare at their effect have taken the genre in a plethora announced that they would be formed My Bloody Valentine in pedals while playing as they of sonic directions, such as alt- signing with indie label Domino Ferrari 1985 with fellow guitarist Bilinda concentrated on the composition rock and pop, but no matter how Records, who reissued a selection SwuM & Jinsang Butcher, and soon enough, of their music. Shoegaze albums divergent their sound is from of their records for vinyl, put the Electronic drummer Colm Ó Siosóig and create an opaque wave of sound the blueprint laid by Shields, band’s discography on streaming, bass guitarist Debbie Googe by combining pounding guitar shoegaze bands of all types owe and released merchandise. River Flows in You joined the ranks. Shields, a man riffs with lush, dreamy cascades some of their inspiration to Shields also announced that Yiruma of many influences, admired the of distortion. “Loveless” MBV. Artists like Astrobrite and new records are coming this emphasis on mid and mid-high encapsulates the viscous Pinkshinyultrablast bring sugary year, but with his track record Classical guitar frequencies of artists like cacophony that makes shoegaze and bright vocals and compress of perfectionism, it’s hard to Public Enemy and the Cocteau so unique by dressing up simple the buzzy atmosphere, while take him at his word. Hopefully, Future Kids Twins, as well as the combination ballads and pop songs with The Goslings and Xinlisupreme the record lives up to the legacy Sara Kays of crunchy noise and deadpan colorful guitar tones. Somehow, amplify the noisy smolder until that My Bloody Valentine has Indie-pop melody of acts like The Jesus My Bloody Valentine creates a it roars and crackles. Ride and created––even though that’s a and Mary Chain, Sonic Youth, relaxing, heavenly experience Swirlies lean into alternative near-impossible feat. Crave You Flight Facilities Electronic-pop

Music Choices in Voices Cocaine Pink Sweat$ By ZOE BUFF characterized by dramatic mood express a certain emotion. feel their musicality suppressed shifts and deep, rich tones. The The same goes for musicians. by the instructions of a teacher, R&B / Soul Three weeks ago, when the air musician must stay faithful to the They learn the building blocks in especially when they wish to find in Munich was barely 70 degrees wishes of the composer, but also the very beginning, but once the their own styles. Jesus of Suburbia Fahrenheit, I was standing in a find a way to make a piece his or basics are mastered, they face the Finding a balance is necessary Green Day music room, violin in hand. My her own. Or, in the case of music next step: becoming true artists. for optimizing teacher-student Punk-rock teacher had just demonstrated students, their teachers’. At the start of this journey, the relationships. When the latter has a four-measure phrase from role of a teacher is essential. Even not reached full musical maturity, the second movement of the for students who are inherently substantial guidance is necessary; April Come She Will fifth violin concerto written musical, learning how to phrase is however, as a student reaches full Simon & Garfunkel by Vieuxtemps. Being a dutiful a complex process that requires a musical maturity, a teacher should Folk student, I repeated it note for note, helping hand. If an artist phrases a loosen the reins and allow for the making every effort to reproduce musical sentence inappropriately, student to hone their distinct style. Come Home the exact sound he made, the exact the result can be disastrous for The instructor shows the pupil Anderson .Paak feat. André 3000 movement of his bow, and the the course of the piece. A violinist how the passage should be played, exact speed of his vibrato. But I must learn that not every note but once the direction is given, R&B couldn’t help but wonder whether carries the same importance, the student has the freedom to there was another way to interpret repeated phrases must sound explore alternative interpretations. Heaven Knows I’m Miserable Now the same phrase. like echoes, and phrasing is like a This less restrictive arrangement The Smiths Violinists will hang onto every ribbon that stretches across many ensures the student has been Alternative-rock word their teachers say, closely bars. The intricacies of phrasing exposed to enough musical examine every hand or arm necessitate the guidance of a periods and composers to be movement they see, and listen teacher. able to decide what phrasing is Water Me Down closely to every dynamic change However, students who plan appropriate, while permitting a Vagabon their teachers make. Students learn on pursuing music professionally degree of freedom to establish Alternative from day one that it is important need to develop a specific style, their voice. to listen to their teachers, but what Zoe Buff / The Spectator in addition to mastering the art After receiving many years Buttercup they don’t learn is when it’s time to of phrasing. For instance, famed of classical music training, I can develop their own voices instead For students, this situation is virtuoso Itzhak Perlman is known say with certainty that phrasing Jack Stauber of relying on another’s. akin to writing an essay. Picture for his fingered shifts, and concert is at the core of all instrumental Indie-pop In violin, technique is standard. yourself in an English classroom, violinist Hilary Hahn plays with a playing, and it is a pertinent issue There’s no misinterpreting a shift, a blank sheet of paper in front of distinctive, metallic sound. These for many aspiring musicians. For bedroom community finger position, or bow stroke. you. How do you start? The basics nuances, along with a proficient most, musical maturity comes glass beach A violinist learns the basics in have been etched into your brain: sense of musicality, allow for with time. Students are taught how Alternative the first few years of training. you know how to spell, how to the development of a truly to navigate this vast world, later But once the routine sets in, structure a grammatically correct individual sound; the uniqueness branching out and transforming phrasing––the expression of sentence, and how to punctuate of students’ voices is essential to themselves into artists. Each voice Seven Wonders musical sentences––becomes the phrases. However, most students their playing and defines them as is unique, and that quality is what Fleetwood Mac focus. There are countless ways know there is more to writing instrumentalists. But it is difficult makes music so compelling. So the Pop-rock one can emphasize a note or than these simple building blocks. for music students to cross that next time you sit down to write an build up a crescendo. Different These are merely tools a writer bridge when every aspect of their essay, think about what you want Piano Quartet Op. 67: I. Lento historical periods call for different uses to construct an intricately playing, from the way they hold to express between the lines. Who styles; the Classical Period is detailed masterpiece. Rather, at their instruments to the placement knows? You may discover your Joaquín Turina associated with more brusque its heart, writing is about skillfully of their fingers in the umpteenth voice in a high school English Classical strokes and lighter, clearer sound, manipulating the English language position, is directed by someone classroom. whereas the Romantic Period is to convey a certain message or else. Frustratingly, many students Page 20 The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Arts and Entertainment Low-Rise and Abstract: Fashion Post-Pandemic Fashion Trends By ROXY PERAZZO slightly strange, these tights can and more people are combining what not to wear). The boredom recent example of the current make an otherwise plain outfit the trends of today with authentic experienced by many during the trend cycles. The Hockney Dress Over the past year, it’s become unique. Abstract patterns can be pieces from their original eras. pandemic has also influenced is a relatively simple green knit easy to make questionable fashion seen on all types of clothing with Because of the rarity of clothing homemade fashion as people dress that was extremely popular choices. Being on Zoom has made color being used to celebrate the found in thrift stores, people are picked up hobbies like sewing on social media recently. Not only a t-shirt and crumpled gym shorts return to normal life. Zara’s spring able to be unique while fitting and crocheting. Homemade was the focus of the trend on one from the back of your drawer collection, for example, features into the guidelines of current clothes allow anyone specific dress, but people were so fashion staples. But, as we begin heavily-patterned and brightly trends. Having one-of-a-kind who’s willing to adjust quick to buy it that it fell out of our exit out of the pandemic, colored statement pieces. The clothing has become even trends to their own style just as soon as it came in. fashion has become all the more use of color can also be seen in more of an aspiration, as personal liking. From Though bigger fashion trends important with new trends some of the emerging makeup what is currently popular halter tops to the Harry still exist (knit wear, for example, constantly emerging. Following a trends, with heavy eyeliner, bright is born out of people Styles cardigan, there which the dress falls under), the time where there was nobody to eyeshadow, and face art becoming not wanting to be on has been a rise in availability of certain items has led judge our taste, current fashion more common. Graphic eyeliner trend. unreplicable pieces people to expand their wardrobe trends are putting an emphasis on trends like floating-crease liner The recent push simply because with soon-to-be unwearable items. individuality and allowing people bring attention to the eyes and can for uniqueness likely people finally had As new trends come into style to wear whatever they like. At also be easily altered to anyone’s comes from the time the time to create and old ones go, the pandemic the same time, micro-trends have personal taste. the pandemic gave them. has allowed everyone to find become an even bigger part of the Another trend coming out of everyone to determine Though thrift their place in the fashion world. industry, putting a strain on the the pandemic is nostalgic clothing. what they truly like, without stores and hand-made At the same time, COVID-19 individuality we so desire. While clothing cycles have always external influences and fear clothing have seen a rise has created a world connected by Especially with the summer been a part of the fashion industry of judgment. Nostalgia for in popularity, fast fashion the internet and has led to trends right around the corner, bright (think ‘90s does ‘60s), they are now the past also comes out has as well. With online being more focused-in than ever colors and patterns have been more obvious than ever. People of quarantine, as we were shopping becoming ever before. While the pandemic has making a comeback, following the are nostalgic for the ‘70s, ‘90s, and given time for reflection more popular, commercial given us time to reflect on our more simple aesthetic of the 2010s. especially the early 2000s. Low- on past trends. Social fashion has never been fashion choices, it also opened Before the pandemic, black tights rise and wide-leg jeans, ‘70s hair, media allows us to look easier or cheaper to the door to new problems within were the standard. And though they and maxi dresses have all seen a back upon and revere consume. Because of the fashion industry and among do still pair well with everything, resurgence in the past few months, the fashion of people the availability of cheap consumers. Still, as we come out more and more people are opting due in large part to the increasing like Paris Hilton, who clothing, the recent trend of the pandemic, it’s exciting to see for colorful, patterned tights. The popularity of thrift stores. Not we wouldn’t have Meng / The Spectator Joanna cycles have become more what people have come up with, blue swirled Maison Soksi tights only are we able to dress in trends even thought of as a specific and much faster. both unique and mainstream, while have been all over Pinterest lately, of different eras, especially with fashion influence three years The House of Sunny scrolling through fashion TikTok and though the trend can seem the help of the internet, but more ago (other than as an example of Hockney Dress is likely the most or just while out on the street. Gaming Dwarf Fortress and Its Influence on Gaming By ANDREY SOKOLOV complex simulation in the history as they embark on creating a new smaller-scale projects, one of which videogame fare. At the start of of interactive entertainment. fortress, while also tending to the would eventually become “Dwarf each playthrough, the player’s main Over the past 20 years, “Dwarf Fortress,” the brainchild dwarves’ needs and various external Fortress.” Initially believing the objective is to secure basic resources countless groundbreaking events of Tarn and Zach Adams, has threats. development of the game would such as food, water, and alcohol, have transpired across the gaming rocked the gaming sphere ever since Though the pair had previously take two months, Tarn would either through farming or trading. world. From the decline of single- the beginning of its development tried developing an advanced game continue to develop the game until As the player progresses through player experiences to the rise of in 2002. Officially titled “Slaves to world in “Slaves to Armok,” their he felt that it was truly complete, the in-game years, the gameplay streaming, the industry has found Armok: God of Blood Chapter II,” lack of experience combined with something that he has been unable loop shifts from the juggling of itself transformed under the the initial idea behind the game was intense ambition caused Tarn, to achieve since its initial 2006 basic resources to the defense of influence of time. One thing that to create a procedurally generated the main programmer of the duo, release. has remained constant, however, world in which the player would to take a break from working The objectives of “Dwarf is the passion of two brothers find themselves tasked with taking with Armok. On his own, Tarn Fortress” are essentially just continued on page 21 working together to create the most care of a group of dwarf colonists began the development of various your standard, dwarf-centric Film The Subtle Beauty of Coming-of-Age By ELEANOR LEUNG relationship to their mothers, the allows the audience to take the his girlfriend, Summer, and is trauma and virtually no friends. He plot is uninteresting at best and concept and turn it around in their heartbroken and confused when observes the people around him When it comes to high school the message doesn’t resonate with minds so that they can decide the she suddenly breaks up with him. living their lives while it seems his movies, we’ve seen it all. The them. But for those who do relate, meaning of the film. As viewers, we subconsciously root own is at a standstill. That is, until lens of unattached, middle-aged, “Lady Bird” is raw and sensitive. Perhaps the best coming-of-age for Tom. We sympathize with his Charlie meets a group of friends white men hardly captures the awkwardness and his loving nature, who help him fight against his past. “high school experience” in all its so when Summer dumps him, we What makes this film stand awkward, clumsy nuance. Instead, take Tom’s side. out from the rest is the way the movies like “Sierra Burgess is a By the end of the film, the characters are seen in the eyes of Loser” (2018), “Geek Charming” audience is meant to realize that Charlie. The movie doesn’t draw (2011), and many more hinge Summer may have been, to Tom, caricatures of high school clichés to entirely on the use of the same “the one,” but Tom may not have maintain a storyline, nor does it rely tropes over and over again. The rich been Summer’s. We then wonder, on the same plot devices to keep mean girl gets a redemption arc. “Who is the real villain here? Is audiences interested. Every cast The introverted nerd catches the there a villain?” Tom follows the member fits the character perfectly, eye of the misunderstood school same arc as the audience does and and each character, no matter their bully. The popular athlete is secretly eventually comes to terms with the importance to the plot, is written crumbling under the pressure of fact that Summer never wanted with a complex, genuine personality. always being perfect. It almost anything but a casual fling. “500 Still, coming-of-age films seems as if “the epic highs and Days of Summer” is able to connect shouldn’t entirely eclipse more lows of high school football” are with a wide audience because of the lighthearted movies. There is a the embodiment of every teenage fact that its characters feel real and certain appeal in watching a movie summer movie. Almost. believable. Viewers can see both you know will have a satisfying What makes these movies so Summer and Tom reflected in parts ending. “Mean Girls” (2004) and infuriatingly bland is their purpose. of their own lives, which gives the “Legally Blonde” (2001) are both In an effort to appeal to everyone, film authenticity. undoubtedly iconic in their own they relate to almost no one. The We also see this authenticity right. The coming-of-age genre, beauty of coming-of-age lies in how mirrored in “The Perks of Being a however, is able to capture the it can connect with the individual Wallflower” (2012), a classic amongst subtleties of internal conflict viewer, subverting our preconceived high school dramas. It’s a rarity that and growing up in a way that is notions of what a teenage movie the writer of a book directs the film both refreshing and perceptive. should look like and providing adaptation, but Steven Chbosky’s Being able to relate to Lady Bird’s Kaitlin Ho / The Spectator commentary on the complexity of leadership on this film made all relationship with her mother is youth, all within two hours. Gerwig said that she “didn’t want movies are the ones that mature the difference. In an interview, what makes the film so enjoyable, Greta Gerwig’s “Lady Bird” the character of the mother to fall with the viewer. For example, at Chbosky stressed the importance and seeing Charlie’s isolated view of (2017), for instance, received neatly into a category of either first glance, Marc Webb’s “500 of depth in characterization, saying, high school as opposed to the “nerd enormous criticism for being boring an angel or a monster, which is Days of Summer” (2009) reads like “This movie doesn’t have bad guys becomes popular” trope is more and overrated. The film explores generally what [she thinks] happens a summer rom-com and nothing and divas and attitudes, it doesn’t universally relatable. These films the turbulent relationship between with mother characters in movies.” more. The narrative is told from have that—it has people, like real are able to achieve an emotional mother and daughter, and how Rather than shove overdone the perspective of Tom, a hopeless people, and that’s important.” The connection with the viewer, love is defined in a relationship like plotlines and character archetypes romantic searching for “the one.” whole story is told from the eyes something even the most popular theirs. For viewers without a similar down the viewer’s throat, Gerwig He is completely infatuated with of Charlie, a freshman with past of movies fail to do. The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Page 21 Arts and Entertainment Literature How a Pandava Girl Saved More than Just Her World

By KAEDEN RUPAREL readers learn about the religion currently has more than 900 million consciously chooses to abandon the of an Indian heroine (a rarely seen and its intricate stories and deities followers. Providing comedic relief stereotypical portrayal of an Indian archetype) while also displaying Roshani Chokshi’s novel series in a compelling, yet meaningful akin to that of Rick Riordan’s girl, with her protagonist being a a sense of pride and belonging “Aru Shah” expertly abandons manner. Early on in the novel, mythologically-inspired fiction, struggling student, an expert liar, in the exploration of culture and Indian-American stereotypes, Aru learns that she is a Pandava Chokshi is able to teach readers of and quite mischievous (yet shrewd). heritage. Instead of poking fun at illuminating Indian stories and the sister, a reincarnation of the all races, genders, and ages about the This choice plays out wondrously the oddity that is often associated world of Hinduism alike. Indian Pandava brothers, the most famous vast world of the polytheistic Hindu in her novel, as readers are with Indian culture in the media, stories are often told either in a way and celebrated heroes in Hindu religion. Aru’s journey introduces instantly sold upon meeting Aru. Chokshi presents a character that is purely educational, based mythology. Furthermore, she readers to different Hindu deities as Indian readers can immediately that is an inspiration to Indian- solely on facts, or in a way that learns that she is responsible for well as symbolic topics and places recognize similarities to their own Americans like me, casting her in revolves around an Indian character preventing her world’s impending of Hinduism. However, what is experiences, relating to Aru more the spotlight as a hero. For non- without addressing their culture in doom. Initially, this daunting task particularly unique about Chokshi’s than they relate to a stereotypical Indians, this story is a vivid and any way, stemming from the notion, seems too treacherous for Aru, story is the way in which these Indian character whose future is thrilling way to learn about the “I don’t see color.” In “Aru Shah,” but she soon learns to greet it topics are not simply explained, but predetermined to be the medical world’s third most popular religion. a tumultuous journey of cultural with courage, just as her Pandava rather intricately integrated into the field. And for young Indian-Americans, and ancestral discovery, readers are predecessors had. protagonist’s journey. For young Indian-Americans, it is a call to action. This culture- swept into a captivating story of a Traveling through sites such The true impact of “Aru Shah” this novel represents a doorway illuminating series is Chokshi’s way young Indian girl caught between as the Palace of Illusions and the can be seen through the story’s for their future. As an Indian- of communicating to us that we are the world of her seventh grade Night Bazaar and introducing effect on Indian readers. Aru Shah is American, the few times I’m able the generation to make change for class in Atlanta and the universe of Hindu deities such as Hanuman an incredibly relatable character, as to see my community represented Indian-Americans. At its core, “Aru Indian mythology. and Urvashi, the “Aru Shah”’ she lives through the awkwardness tend to be with the overly smart Shah” is a story of empowerment As Aru discovers more about series brings Indian stories to light, of seventh grade while also kid who is great at math but has that shows young Indians that the herself throughout her journey greeting readers with an educational navigating a complex relationship few friends. The “Aru Shah” series world is there for us to live in, not exploring the realm of Hinduism, plotline about a religion that with her mother. Chokshi tears down that stereotype in favor to be confined by. Gaming Dwarf Fortress and Its Influence on Gaming “Dwarf Fortress,” with titles such the most important game design the brothers decided to port the gaming sphere that in November continued from page 20 as Intellivision’s “Utopia” (1982) principles: intuitiveness. To start game on Steam, fixing issues with 2012, it was included as one of the and Maxis’s “SimCity” (1989) off, “Dwarf Fortress” does not graphics and unintuitive UI in the 14 games acquired by the Museum the fortress from various hazardous attempting to simplify and gamify have graphics that most casual process. of Modern Arts for its history of events. These events include some the concepts of ruling over a players are used to. Instead, the The amount of freedom video-gaming collection. immediate dangers, such as raids, group of people. What separates game uses ASCII characters to “Dwarf Fortress” gives to the Despite its almost 19 years of and more long-term dangers, such “Dwarf Fortress” from older represent everything in the game player largely redefined the sandbox development, Dwarf Fortress is as vampire infiltrations and fortress titles is the fact that the Adams world. Additionally, while DF genre. Tarn’s attention to detail likely ages away from completion. dwarves going berserk for a variety brothers’ determination to ensure gives its players almost unlimited made DF gain a cult following, Tarn estimates it to be around 44 of reasons. While it’s initially easy that all aspects of the game were freedom in terms of what they along with recognition across the percent complete, with features to tackle all the dangers that the as complex as they are in real life. can do, it never teaches the player entire gaming industry. Nowadays such as magic and creation myths yet game throws at the player, in the From the big-picture systems such how to use anything. Just choosing its core ideas of resource gathering to be added. With such a long way end, all fortresses fall. But players as seasons and flow of time to the starting location of the player’s and players directly altering the to go, DF still manages to blow its shouldn’t feel bad if their sanctuary the in-depth systems of combat fortress will likely force new players game world can be seen in almost competition out of the water with crumbles. The community around and economy, “Dwarf Fortress” to visit DF’s external wiki. “Dwarf all genres, from battle royales the number of features it already DF recognizes that no fortress is outshines its competition by the Fortress” is difficult to learn and like “Fortnite” to sandbox games possesses. If you are interested in perfect, which is why the slogan, amount of thought that is put into almost impossible to master because like “Minecraft.” In fact, “Dwarf experiencing the grandfather of all “Losing is fun!” has been adopted every facet of Dwarf dwelling Adams decided to focus more on Fortress” was the game that sandbox games, “Dwarf Fortress” is by the player base as a light-hearted culture. the absolute freedom given to the inspired Markus Persson (Notch) free to download at Bay12Games’s way of letting go when they The downside of the emphasis player, rather than the graphical to start developing the concept that website. Just remember that every eventually fail. on attention to detail is that aspect of the game. Thankfully, would later become the voxel-based fortress fails eventually, and losing Construction management throughout development, Tarn the problem of initial difficulty was masterpiece. “Dwarf Fortress” is fun! simulators existed long before completely overlooked one of addressed by Tarn recently. In 2019, has had so much influence on the

Alfie Templeman Ignites the Imagination With Music “Forever Isn’t Long Enough”

By FRANCES SCHWARZ atmosphere that is compounded by the choir sings “It’s over now” with In the same vein as the title track pluck plays like a fast heartbeat punchy rhythms. increasing urgency in repeat until is the funk-inspired “Hideaway,” as Templeman sings about a past If you’re ever going on a The title track perfectly the song concludes ominously like the album’s mischievous opener love and the naivety of his youth. summer drive and looking to blast introduces the atmospheric yet a cord being pulled. “Shady,” and the dark yet equally Templeman sings, “She said I’m some music through the speakers energetic “To You.” Alfie crazy, baby / She’s just a daydream, of your red convertible, then Alfie Templeman appears surprisingly film scene,” as he realizes that Templeman’s new album “Forever confident in this new musical style the love of his youth might not Isn’t Long Enough” should be your as he plays with genres seamlessly have been as perfect as he once first pick. An electronic wonder throughout the album, delivering thought. On the fence between oozing with acoustic goodness, some top-notch instrumental solos staying heartbroken and moving “Long Enough” seamlessly mixes along the way. on, “Film Scene Daydream” lends pop, rock, and even some funk The slickest and quickest of itself perfectly to the urgent “To and jazz to create 30 minutes these upbeat tracks is “Wait, I You” and then finally to the album’s of auditory heaven. Retro synth Lied,” the album’s catchiest song. closer, “One More Day.” sounds and satisfying basslines This disco-inspired track sticks to a Here, in the album’s final aplenty, this upbeat debut album bass guitar hook and a simple dance moments, its dark side comes promises more to come from the floor beat, expanding its sound in into full view. “One More Day” 18-year-old alternative pop artist the lovesick pre-choruses and post- enchants with dark synth swells, a Templeman. choruses. Heartbroken yet lyrically slow, lo-fi beat, and a vinyl crackle Surrounded by music his whole cheekier than ever, “Wait, I Lied” as Templeman harmonizes with life, Alfie Templeman released shows off Templeman’s charm and female Irish singer April, whose his debut EP, “Like An Animal” willingness to experiment with his voice brings this track to life. A (2018) when he was 15. The EP’s typically more homemade style. necessary departure from the enchanting, guitar-based indie pop Not every song on the album album’s otherwise cheerful sound, sound garnered attention from the pulls off this pop style, however. “One More Day” fully reveals the likes of Universal Music Publishing While “Hideaway” and “Shady” dark underbelly of heartbreak and Group, who signed him in 2019. are good songs overall, the verses toxicity in this album during its Templeman was 15 when he got feel empty and overpowered by mysterious final moments. his upstart and experimented the bass and distracting percussion, “Forever Isn’t Long Enough” appropriately, channeling Dr. Dre ameliorated only by the synth-heavy sparks the imagination with as an influence one second and chorus. This minimalistic style, glittering synth sounds before Nirvana the next. But as a whole, while satisfyingly smooth in “Wait, crashing back to earth with bass- his sound is tagged by its colorful I Lied,” feels loud and confused centric grooves. Exploding with the charm and rock-inspired tones. Annie Lam / The Spectator in the verses of “Hideaway” and enthusiasm and vibrancy of youth, On “Forever Isn’t Long “Shady.” listening to this mini-album in one Enough,” however, Alfie catchy sound of the album. Retro Templeman depends on a lover This isn’t a problem in the go is like taking a shot of inspiration Templeman explores new musical synthesizers, a crunchy bassline, and the happiness that their forever latter half of the album where that ends with a lasting sense of horizons with a more polished great percussion, and even a choir brings in this bright yet bittersweet the romantic atmospheres of contentment. Needless to say, Alfie sound than his usual organic vibe. at one point dance together in an song. Aside from being sonically “Forever Isn’t Long Enough” take Templeman’s cohesive, self-assured The snappy drums and bass- anthemic song about the joy of life pleasing, this song also perfectly over with songs like “Film Scene sound on his most recent project centric grooves of the album are and love. The song also introduces introduces the mildly toxic and Daydream.” Shy synth keys evolve has proven that he is an up-and- accompanied by glimmering, retro his fear of being alone, which potentially fictional young love that into shimmering stars as a punchy coming force to be reckoned with. synthesizers to create a beautiful becomes increasingly apparent as the album revolves around. beat intensifies the track. A melodic Page 22 The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Humor

These articles are works of fiction. All quotes are libel and slander. From a Student: The Threats of Zoom to My Social Etiquette

By JUDY CHEN on this overpopulated concrete some very valid concerns. See, if you were a friend I’ve named “Reddit.” Let me know if jungle landmass. That just means If I ever see you around Stuy, met in one of your classes, I you would like an MLA citation Dear high school educator we might have to see each other at Ferry’s, Whole Foods, or in that would simply text them and let for this. (a.k.a. adult I see for 55 minutes in person soon. I’m (not) looking random corner grocery store I them know that we’re coinci- I couldn’t tell you the real ori- every other day), forward to this after 14 months think no one goes to, I want to un- dentally in the same vicinity, and gin of my concern and it's not like of hermiting, but if our physi- leash my proper student etiquette we’d wave to each other at least I go out enough for this scenario Hey, you! Yes, you, the real cal meeting is an inevitable fate, I to acknowledge your presence. six feet apart. Perhaps, a back and to be a possibility, or that you care person on my screen! I can’t be- would like to express my concern However, this becomes nearly forth “Dude why do I see some- enough or remember me for it to lieve we’ve developed a somewhat for something, Ms., or Mrs., or impossible when I don’t *really* one who looks exactly like you in matter. Regardless, please write cohesive relationship outside of Mr., or Dr., or whatever. know what you look like. It’s even the supermarket rn” “Wait what back to help calm my very rational reluctant breakout room discus- I respectfully fear the powers beyond Zoom’s handy dandy fea- which one” “Wholefoods lol” panic. Thank you for your time, sions. It all started off with a live of the “touch up my appearance” tures. I can’t see you beyond the “Omg I think I see you actually” cooperation, consideration, dedi- digital staring contest in Septem- and “background” features on thing that props up your head and would suffice. And that’s that. cation, commitment, and sacrifice ber, when I refused to unmute un- Zoom. I will admit, sometimes I some of you are five feet tall with Good social etiquette, check. from reading this message. til I was faced with the haunting crank that touch-up slider up to a seven-foot personality! So when But it gets so complicated thought of participation grades. the max, but that is only because I’ve attached a mental image of a when it comes to you. On one Sincerely, It’s May now, and you’ve either I don’t want you to see the rebirth person with NBA athlete height hand, I have as faint of a recol- Your overthinking student received a “thank you” from me of your sleep paralysis demon my to a person of average Joe height, lection of you as I do of what from Zoom :) at the end of class, or an e-mail at sleep-deprived-from-Tiktok per- I’ve basically lied to myself. Thus, happened this entire school year. 1:00 a.m. asking for an extension sona at 10:00 a.m. in the morn- I have two options: stare into the On the other hand, I know of P.S. Nothing because I’ve for a lovely assignment. Oh, how ing. I am not hypocritical and will abyss aimlessly just to say hello af- your existence and you’ve taken wasted enough of your time by the times have changed. not blame you for doing the same ter what feels like an eternity later, note of mine. I even googled, “Is sending you this e-mail. Whoops, So let’s cut to the chase and thing. I’m even writing this entire or just accidentally (?) ignore you it rude to not say hi to a teacher just wasted more. At this point, get to second base. Reality has message just to prove how unhyp- and walk away. And by acciden- in public?” I got mixed respons- can you just tell me if I should say just struck me that we all live ocritical I truly am. But I do have tally, I mean deliberately. es from a very credible source hi or not? Thanks again.

Are You Cake? Mutex, the Pain Reliever By KRISTA PROTEASA “No worries! I was barely I am cake—you know, like those of the Future paying attention to what you hyper-realistic cakes on You- By ARSHIA MAZUMDER brightest bunch in the crowd! As the end of the school year were saying anyway!” Tube.” dawns upon us, the weather gets “I guess that helped, huh? At that moment, Nova started Are you tired of having to And guess what? Mutex does nicer while our mental health Anyway, what’s really been bug- licking their arm. rest after bending down to pick EVEN MORE! In a week, this does not. You’d love to simply ging me is that, lately, I’ve been “Nova, what are you doing?” something off the floor? Do you revolutionary technology stops run around a grassy hill with your feeling a little crumby—” “It’s chocolate! Ooo, it’s also want to play with your grandkids your pain entirely by relaxing friends for hours on end, but “Oh, I totally get what you’re birthday cake! Sprinkles! Oh my without grabbing an ice pack? your muscles and heart to the you’ve signed up for seven AP ex- saying—” gosh, there’s strawberry Are you just waiting for the anti- point of inactivity! After being ams to study for. Your jealousy of “NOVA, shortcake in dote to your back pain? Well, we fired up with the punch of Mu- elementary-school-age children PLEASE my shoul- have the solution for you! Mutex tex, your body puts those cute grows, and you realize you’ve be- LET der? That’s is a drug specifically designed to little nerves to rest. Your brain come a miniature Scrooge. Your M E so cool!” combat back pain. This revo- will be so relaxed it’ll stop send- window (or lack thereof) is your FIN- lutionary drug picks you up on ing signals entirely. It’s a dream only window to freedom while ISH!” “Nova, your feet and sweeps you away to that never ends! you stay toiling in your room. “Sorry! no! Stop old-people utopia. But what if, despite all your wor- Zip zoop, consum- WOMAN: I use Mutex to be ries, none of these things you’re my lips are ing yourself! A young woman comes on free from my back pain and any stressing about were actually real? sealed.” Once you’re screen with bandages every- emotion whatsoever. I’m saying What if you were just cake? Let- “Thank gone, there’s no tuce catch up with two of our fa- you. I haven’t coming back from vorite friends: Ember and Nova. just been feel- that!” They so graciously let me third ing figuratively “But I just want wheel on their conversation. crumby, but I’ve cake!” For I knew from the start that “Hey, Nova.” Ember sulkily literally been feel- It was only a mat- greeted their friend, Nova. ing like crumbs. The ter of seconds before all this vaccine-shmaccine bull “Ember, what’s up?” Nova other day I pinched Nova completely oblit- asked, trying their best to proceed myself and—boom— erated themself, as normal. frosting. I scraped past vanishing into was just a way for the short lib- “Too many tests. I know noth- a little patch of frosting the stars. Em- ing. No thoughts, head empty.” and—boom— ber screamed eral agenda to win over our tall, “Ember, Ember, Ember. You red velvet. I was in horror, then might want to calm down.” so confused. simply got up, mighty, strong Republicans. “YOu mIgHt WaNt To CaLm I thought my bandaged DoWn. Do you honestly think I one brain cell their haven’t tried? No, Nova. I want had finally called choc- you to look me in my stupid face it quits. But then olate- where. goodbye to the aches, groans, and and tell me that again.” I went up to a oozing WOMAN: I don’t feel my my family. I highly recommend it. “Jeez, ok. Sorry I even tried.” little kid for some arm, back pain anymore. Heck, I don’t I promise you won’t be alive to “Sorry, Nova. I’m just so fraz- painfully brutal hon- and acted feel my back at all! It’s wonder- regret it! zled. All I need is for you to listen esty, and even they Justine Kang / The Spectator like nothing ful! After I took Mutex, my head to me.” said it was legitimate happened. started to hurt so bad, I wished Mutex, the pain reliever of “I think you should try yoga.” cake. Nova, I think I’m cake.” Their disappearance hap- I could behead myself, but hey! the future. Ask your doctor about “Nova, I swear to the almighty “Aw, I’m so proud of you! pened extraordinarily ahead of My back is now the least of my it today! beings up in the Universe, I might Thank you for telling me this. I’m schedule, but since Ember still concerns. hurt you. Please stop talking.” so happy that you’re opening up wanted to at least prove some- She groans in pain. Disclaimer: Mutex increases “Oopsies, sorry. I sometimes about your intrusive thoughts.” thing to themselves, they went on risk of Karen syndrome. Call get a little carried away while try- Nova would’ve continued like to take all of their AP exams. All Mutex works by exciting your your doctor if you have an ob- ing to impose on others’ lives. this, but they were interrupted seven of them. Throughout each pain receptors everywhere, so, in session with managers, refuse Maybe it’s because I’m an ENFJ.” for the greater good of saving one, Ember couldn't stop think- comparison, your back is perfect- to wear your mask, and/or tell As a fellow ENFJ, this is time. ing about Nova and how much ly healthy! See these receptors? random people to go back to true. The two continued on with “Nova, I mean this in the nic- fun their last moments in this re- An animation of a bunch of their country. You might also get Nova constantly interrupting est way possible, but are you actu- ality were. Nova quite literally was blue blobs on a cartoon human cancer, but you’re too young and Ember for almost another hour ally alive? Like, if I were to hook the cake they had and obviously body comes on the screen. The healthy for that! Financial aid will and tried to convince Ember that you up to an EEG, would all of ate it too. Good for them. ones on the back have sad faces. not be provided because we like they could cure their own anxi- your brain be active? Is it even The moral of the story to- These back pain feelers are money. No refunds or exchanges, ety. I am truly astounded by this doing brain things?” day, kids, is that this reality is sad. But with Mutex… complete upfront cost, unless ingenuity. Once the pair finally “What?” one where your left arm could The other blue blobs around you would like to pay in install- settled their quarrels, they started “Never mind. The point is, I be a lemon bar and your right them are shocked with lighting. ments with a 50% interest. The speaking like normal people who think I might have made fun of leg could be a blueberry muffin. Blobs start sobbing and crying. upfront cost is $3,487 for this don’t burst into flames every 15 that really unspecific, outdated This world is one of little mean- One of them bangs their head on brand-new technology. seconds. meme too much because I think ing. Don’t eat your phalanges and a nearby bone. “Sorry for yelling at you, my reality is being morphed into eat your vegetables instead. Stay Your back nerves are the Big Pharma endorses this Nova.” one where I am not me; rather, crumby, my friends. message. The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Page 23 Humor Close Friends With Royalty By SANJANA YASNA clearly as illegitimate as poor family might pull him out of his wire a $3000 donation into Mou- special day. I gladly did so, and to Mouwlgi claims to be. However, destitute state. However, Mouwlgi wlgi’s account. both of our surprises, Mouwlgi Hello friend, Mouwlgi wrote with undeniable loved her too much to abandon It was my first time handling had the exact same birthday as I”m sorry to say that i ur- desperation, considering all those her for his own sake, for their credit card details and account me! It was as if we were brought gently need help. I am a Nigerian spelling and grammatical errors love was pure despite the squalor information. It took me a good together by fate. I considered him prince Maskini Kal-El Mouwlgi matching his ailing situation. it brought along. two hours with good Mouwlgi’s family, so I thought it was only from Sub-Saharan Africa and an From this, I was able to expertly I was stunned by his guidance, so Mouwlgi, being the right to tell him my father’s birth- exiled son of a royal family. I suf- deduce that it was unlikely to be honesty. A man so direct and sincere soul he is, offered to do day so that together, we could col- fer from AIDS and am currenltyy a scam. shameless couldn’t have an ul- future money transfers in lieu of laborate on a birthday gift every hospitalised with a life-sustaining Still, I wondered, how did terior motive! I was my labor. Of course, I gave him year. However, Mouwlgi request- machine, as I write this urgently Mouwlgi get shunned by his own moved. My all the necessary information. ed to remain anonymous in the with no revision. I’ve deeply fa- royal family? I emailed goal was Mouwlgi has been my best gift’s accreditation in spite of my tigued as an AIDS complication Mouwlgi inquir- now friend ever since. I regularly encouragement; his humbleness and I don’t gave much time left ing so, and that’s checked up on his family knows no bounds! on me. i need to pay hospital when my sym- every other day. Eventu- I write this article to celebrate bills this weak, which amounts pathy for him ally, he was able to com- Mouwlgi finally garnering the to $3000, money I don’t have be- turned into admira- municate with me every money to take a flight to America cause my family have long turded tion. Ac- day because to him, my in search of better hospitals. The their backs againgst me. cording to companionship was hospital bills in his home country I don’t have nay relatives or Mouwlgi, the best treatment were already paid for, thanks to famlily to turn to, as i can only he was for his chronic me. Before he boarded his flight send a humble plea to a stranger banished AIDS condition. to America, he asked to see my over the inturnet while I can still from his Only, I wor- father’s social security number so fold my head up. The life-sustain- royal family ried he may that he can avoid social security ing machine es costly and using it for falling in love have also scams by knowing how long gen- for so long makes me feel terribel with and mar- developed uine numbers should be. Witty, as if I’m,. suffocating people isn’t rying a dementia isn’t he? my expertise, sp i feel better com- com- because Yet, more importantly, I write municagting with mail. So I can moner. he often this to dispel the myth that all only ask you for a poultry sum of T h e appears to Nigerian princes are scammers. I $3000 via Western Union to pay two of have forgot- donated to a candid man and his my hispital bills Contact me fur- them strug- Reya Miller / The Spectator ten about his struggling family and got a price- theer at [email protected]. gled financially with the absence t o wife when I allude to her. less friendship in return. Hence, of financial support from his af- help this poor man. Therefore, As our friendship progressed I advise you to give the Nigerian I was a bit skeptical at first. fluent family. They lived in pover- with righteousness in mind, un- and Mouwlgi professed to be prince e-mails a chance out of the I’ve heard of the Nigerian Prince ty, struggling to feed their 10 kids. der his instructions, I entered my more financially stable, he re- goodness of your heart, for even scam before, but a defining char- His wife tried to convince him to father’s account information into quested to know my birth date royalty can have hardships. acteristic of them is that they’re call off the marriage so that his the Western Union website to so that he could gift me on my The Fresh Prince of I Hacked the College Board Tyranny AP Spanish Test By ASA MUHAMMAD changes, locker assignments, and By CYRUS CURSETJEE four, and the second digit is two. let closed. The proctor put his unofficial hangout spots. This Following the advice of “The argument with his speaker aside After 18 months of remote enrages them, but they are too The College Board has man- Hitchhiker's Guide to the Gal- and gave me a concerned look. I learning, we will hopefully return naive to realize that these privi- aged to survive lawsuits and ac- axy,” I took a towel from my bag grinned fiendishly. to the school building. Unfortu- leges are earned, so they scoff at cusations over unfair testing and sought the meaning of life When the 40-minute writing nately, only some of us will re- the rewards the upperclassmen conditions and illegal activities. (42). Sure enough, the 42nd word period for the argumentative es- turn. And the ones who won’t? have been bestowed for surviving To this day, it still manages to up- that the proctor read when giving say commenced, I told myself Well, they’re the lucky ones. The multiple years of suffering. Their hold its “nonprofit organization” the instructions for the exam was inspirationally, “You are in The Stuyvesant we’re coming back to petulance invokes the wrath of description. Up until last week, “electronics,” which starts with Spectator. That means you en- won’t be the same as the one we three years of upperclassmen, however, it had yet to face its the letter “E.” The only possible joy writing.” With a newly found left, and here’s why. and in doing so, freshmen learn most formidable opponent: me. correct answer to all 75 drive, I put my pen to the paper. First and foremost, we to respect their position until it is I entered Stuyvesant on Tues- questions of Sections When I woke up from my lost two cycles of upperclassmen their turn to rule. day, May 11, with the sole purpose IA and IB was “E,” 40-minute nap, it was time to to the coronavirus, with the Class The freshmen only acquiesce of achieving a 5 on the AP Span- so I bubbled in begin Section IIB, the speaking of ’22 reigning as seniors. This in the face of overwhelming ad- ish exam without demonstrating portion of the exam. I joined throne is not unearned, but the versity. But next year, there will the slightest bit of knowledge the line of students outside students are unprepared. How be no adversity, for there will concerning the Spanish language. the classroom and began walk- can children who left as mere be three years of freshmen. The My first task was to obtain all the ing toward a computer room sophomores assume their role as class of ’23 will nominally be ju- answers to Sections IA and IB. with headphones that looked chieftains? They cannot. While niors, but they never completed This was simple. When I walked straight out of the ’80s. The their growth has not stagnated their freshman year. ’24 will be through the bridge entrance students had to attempt to and ’22 endured a hellish junior sophomores, but they never on the second floor, the se- speak over each other into year, they did so with the bare experienced the idiosyncrasies curity guard asked me to a bulky mic all at the same minimum. They all experienced of the building and its people. step aside and show her time, a concept that was the suffering intrinsic to junior Some haven’t even attended an the COVID-19 safety form surely designed by a politi- year, but that suffering bore no in-person class. The class of ’25 we were asked to fill out on cian. I sat down next to my fruit. There was no assump- will be true freshmen, free of the bridge, which I did not friend from AP Computer tion of responsibility (that was the gossamer claims to power have. This was not because Science, Ovonel Lenovo, a burden for Google Translate the other two years will attempt. I had accidentally closed the tab who caught me searching the and Symbolab). There were no The pride in each year will fester; on my phone after filling out the my an- file system of the computer in freshmen to question their claims it will make violent bedfellows form while I was on the bridge. Sabrina Chenswers / The Spectatorwith front of me. He interrogated me: to the third-floor atrium. There with envy, and these nuptials will It was a carefully planned, stra- confidence. “What are you doing?” I had to were no seniors to steal their bear the fruit of indignation un- tegic maneuver that would allow Section IIA was the think quickly. “Hacking,” I re- SING! victory and no camara- deserved. me to take a photo of the secu- written free response, plied. We paused for a moment, derie formed in the late hours of Thus, the new Stuyvesant rity guard’s laptop before filling composed of an e-mail and an an awkward silence filling the air SING! preparation. The grade shall consist of three years of out the form a second time. As argumentative essay. I watched between us. “I don’t think you is fractured. Despite their resil- freshman and a struggling ruling I stood on one of the few func- as students around me rushed know what hacking is,” Ovonel ience, they are unfit to rule. class. Accusations of ineptitude tioning escalators, I carefully re- to respond to some fake e-mail responded. I chuckled. I had ’22 would, under nor- will fly, and without an agreed- viewed the footage. prompt in 15 minutes. Fools! I thought Ovonel was intelligent. mal circumstances, ascend to upon hierarchy of students or As I suspected, on the bot- knew how things really worked. I On the computer, I found their rightful place with the sheer a complacent middle class of tom left corner of the laptop wrote the following e-mail: the perfect file to upload to the hubris of senioritis acting as sophomores and juniors, fresh- was a sticker labeled “Lenovo,” Audacity program we were sub- their mandate of heaven, but the man insurrectionists will have which was clearly the Spanish Dear David Coleman, mitting. Inside the Downloads 2021-2022 school year faces an the means to demand the respect word for “Lenov.” If you find folder of the computer was a file unprecedented evil. Worse than they do not deserve. A ruling the absolute value of the differ- Ik ur reading dis, wood be called “rickroll.exe.” I knew that, the pandemic is the three years class, already struggling to gain ence between each correspond- pog if u gave me five. Here is in Spanish, “ll” is pronounced of freshmen returning to the its footing, and a disillusioned ing letter of Lenov and Cyrus magic mushroom: “y,” and the sound of “rickroy” school. Normally, high schools majority courting delusions of (my first name) in the alphabet, while trilling your “R”s was too function with one year of fresh- grandeur will clash, and I fear you get eight, 20, four, six, and Sincerely, perfect, so I uploaded the file men, a group so emblazoned by that the vile, prepubescent, un- three. With conclusive evidence Cyeres Cursteejee (Future and took off my headphones. I their acceptance to Stuyvesant derdeveloped beast that is the that the number 820463 was my Chief Executive Officer of the listened happily to the roar of and journey into high school that freshman population may win test book number, all I had to do College Board) pained children trying to speak they scoff at a hierarchy they do and that their victory will plunge was find the answer key for my over each other into their micro- not understand. The freshmen Stuyvesant into the umbra inevi- booklet. Using my hyper-focused I drew the mushroom from phones. see the perceived evils of up- table in revolutions both physical observational skills, I noticed Super Mario in the space I gave I now await my score on July perclassmen priority for program and political. that the fourth digit of 820463 is myself and slammed my book- 21 at 7:00 a.m. Page 24 The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Humor

The Wacky World of Texting in the Modern Age By OLIVER HOLLMANN mantically inclined (or perhaps, For those goofers among us scriptive text. For those critics, displeasure, as their meanings the opposite), there are a num- who’d like to describe the con- we would like to show the most can be easily misunderstood. The Tone Indicator: A ver- ber of applicable tone indica- text and tone of their jokes, here useful and versatile tone indica- To clear this up, here is a list of satile instrument used by many tors. are some comedically descrip- tors. some misunderstood tone indi- texters alike. They come in many /r: Romantic tive tone indicators. /g: Greeting cators. forms, many of which are useful /x: Sexual Intent /pos: Positive Connotation /g: Goodbye /wtf: Worrying Tearfully, for unsubtly telling people what /p: Platonic /neg: Negative Connotation /g: Guilty Friend you mean in a text. However, /nx: Non-Sexual Intent /amb: Ambiguous Connota- /g: Greedy /bs: Being Silly some of the new additions to /dtnx: Definitely, Totally, tion /g: Grim /fu: Forming Union this toolset have proved to be Non-Sexual Intent /yf: You Figure It Out /g: Good /stfu: Sorry That (I) Formed somewhat… strange. /u: Unless... /srs: Seriously /g: Great (A) Union Let’s start off with some rel- And finally, /th: Threat /g: Tell Michael To Burn /gtfo: Getting Timid For atively normal tone indicators. /ilybinshtsisiodmfijutti: I /thsrs: Seriously, This Is A The Bodies Oscar /j: Joking Like You But I’m Not Sure How Threat Incidentally, the tone indica- /idgaf: I Don’t neGotiate /hj: Half Joking To Say It So Instead Of And of course, tor used in this group must be with tArrorists, Fool /qj: Quarter Joking Describing My Feelings I’ll /bv: Beach Vibes. determined based on the con- /cbj: Could be a Joke? Just Use This Tone Indicator tent of the text. There is one more tone in- /nc: No Clue. These are sure to clear up Skeptics of the tone indi- dicator, one conceptualized by the most complex of relation- cator may point out that many Unfortunately, many addi- those who dare to reach the lim- For those who are more ro- ship troubles. seem useless, scoffing at those tions to the tone indicator rep- its of human communication. Crossword Puzzlewho refuse to write a more de- ertoire have been met with some /jkm: Just Call Me Zooming! Remote Purity Test 1. Cried after class. 2. Cried during class. 3. Snoozed your alarm and was late to class. 1 2 4. Did the gym fitness log. 5. Accidentally unmuted yourself. 6. Left when the teacher put everyone in breakout rooms and came back, seeing just yourself and your teacher. 3 7. Spent an entire class period without going on your phone. 8. Spent an entire class period on another tab. 9. Befriended a freshman this year. 4 10. Submitted something to a Stuy confessions page. 11. Been interviewed by a Spectator writer. 12. Received no responses to your Facebook post. 13. Bumped someone else’s Facebook post. 14. Gone to office hours weekly. 5 6 7 15. E-mailed a teacher because of a missed homework assignment. 8 9 16. Pulled an all-nighter. 17. Bought SAT II books just to find out that the tests 10 were canceled. 18. Been outside or in the Stuy building at least once this 11 year. 19. Eaten during class. 20. Spent an entire breakout room session in silence. If you got <6, you’re not a Stuy student. 12 If you got 6-10, you’re on the fence. You probably be- 13 14 long to Bronx Science.

15 If you got 11-15, you’re a student who has never entered the Stuy building. If you got >16, you are unfortunately a Stuy student.

16 17 Caption Contest

Down: Across: 1. Check to make sure you have no embar- 3. When sharing, “Can everyone see my rassing tabs open before you do this. ___?” Down: 2. Allows you to travel to San Francisco or 4. “Mr.Across: Citron, we can’t hear you. You’re 1. Check to make sureouter you space have in the middleno of your meeting. ___.”3. When sharing, “Can everyone see my ___?” 5. Second in line to the Zoom throne 8. “Okay everyone, we are going to launch embarrassing tabs (__host)open before you do this. a___.”4. “Mr. Citron, we can’t hear you. You’re ___.” 6. You are one of them! 10. Raise Hand, Clap, Go Slower. 2. Allows you to travel7. to“If youSan want Francisco to speak, click onor your ___ 11. A8. place for “Okay turning andeveryone, talking with we are going to launch a Hand feature.” muted classmates and awkward silence. outer space in the middle9. For participants, of your the most meeting. tempting red- 12. A worse version___.” of Zoom that every button on the corner of the screen. P.E. teacher uses. 5. Second in line to the12. “CanZoom you hearthrone me? Is my(__host) ___ working?” 13. You10. can see Raise your teacher Hand, or your Clap, crush Go Slower. 14. The one who asks you to unmute your- on full screen by doing this 6. You are one of them!self when you don’t want to. 15. “This11. meeting A place is being for ___ed. turning By con- and talking withSonya Sassonmuted / The Spectator 17. For hosts, the most tempting red button tinuing to be in the meeting you are con- 7. “If you want to speak,at the clickbottom righton corneryour of ___ the screen. senting tobe classmates_____ed.” and awkward“When silence. you listen to Fireflies by Owl City one too 16. If you accidentally press this button, many times” Hand feature.” Answers on embarrassment12. A liesworse ahead. version of Zoom that every @k._.ristaP.E. https://stuyspec.com/spec-plus/zooming 9. For participants, the most tempting red teacher uses. button on the corner of the screen. 13. You can see your teacher or your crush on 12. “Can you hear me? Is my ___ working?” full screen by doing this 14. The one who asks you to unmute yourself 15. “This meeting is being ___ed. By continuing when you don’t want to. to be in the meeting you are consenting to 17. For hosts, the most tempting red button at be _____ed.” the bottom right corner of the screen. 16. If you accidentally press this button, embarrassment lies ahead.

® Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator  © 2007 - 2021 Education.com The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Page 25 Sports Boxing Canelo Álvarez’s Rise to Glory By NAKIB ABEDIN decision, and Álvarez was forced to rematch scheduled against Golovkin up two weight divisions to super belt left to win before he becomes do some soul-searching after such a later on in the year. However, Álvarez middleweight and becoming one of the unified super middleweight Like many in the sport of significant defeat. Despite winning tested positive for clenbuterol, a the best pound-for-pound fighters in champion. boxing, Canelo Álvarez comes from comfortably, Mayweather recognized banned substance, on a drug test, the world. Right now, Álvarez seems humble beginnings. He was once a early on that Álvarez was a talented something he attributed to eating Álvarez is approaching invincible. Any punch that hits him shy kid, bullied for his red hair and boxer and said, “I take my hat off contaminated meat. He received a becoming the undisputed super looks like it doesn’t faze him, but freckles. At age 13, he turned to to Álvarez. He’s a true champion. A six-month suspension but went on middleweight champion after giving every punch he throws strikes fear boxing as a way to defend himself true champion can take a loss and to fight Golovkin the following year. world champions Callum Smith and in his opponents. The scariest facet against bullies. His training slowly bounce back.” In the second bout, Álvarez and Billy Joe Saunders their first defeats. of his game is that he seems to be began to take over his life, and by Mayweather was correct in his Golovkin went to war, with both Álvarez, once the victim of bullying constantly learning and getting age 15, Álvarez was a professional prediction as Álvarez went on to of them proving that they are elite as a child, looked like the bully in better after every fight. There are boxer. For the first eight years of secure the World Boxing Council fighters. Neither of them backed off these bouts. Despite being six inches few recognizable flaws in Álvarez’s his boxing career, Álvarez seemed middleweight belt. Soon after his at any point during the fight. They shorter, Álvarez chased Smith down ability, and he continuously comes invincible as he took on grown men fight with Mayweather, he booked fought 12 grueling rounds, with both the ring, winning via a unanimous back with something new to show in and seasoned boxers. However, the a match against Gennady Golovkin, showing an intense desire to win. decision. Against Saunders, Álvarez every bout. In one fight, it may be his impressive start to Álvarez’s career his greatest challenge since the The fight was very close, but Álvarez broke Saunders’s eye socket with a patience and composure. In another would end the night that he faced Mayweather bout. The first fight narrowly edged Golovkin to secure a single uppercut. Saunders, who said fight, it may be his head movement Floyd Mayweather Jr., arguably the went poorly for Álvarez as he split decision victory. that he “would rather die on a plane and footwork. Even when he is on greatest boxer of all time. was outboxed and outpunched by The start to Álvarez’s career was crash on the way home than lose,” top of the world, he is constantly In his bout against Mayweather, Golovkin. The vast majority of far from perfect. However, one thing was forced to give up because the getting better. Over the next few Álvarez was completely outclassed boxing fans agree that Golovkin it definitely showed is that he learns injury he sustained in his eye could years, Álvarez will likely be at his peak and outboxed. At one point, comfortably won the fight, but in from his failures and bounces back have been career-threatening. In both and define his legacy. If he continues Mayweather mocked Álvarez in an extremely controversial decision, like a true champion. It was these fights, Álvarez didn’t appear hurt by to mimic his recent performances the middle of the fight after easily the judges ruled the fight as a draw. failures against Mayweather and the punches from his opponents, against more opponents, his legacy dodging a power punch. Mayweather Álvarez escaped without getting Golovkin that drove him to start the but the punches he threw caused may be on par with some of the all- won comfortably via majority another loss on his record and had a second phase of his career, jumping major damage. Álvarez now has one time greats of boxing. NFL Big Blue 2021 Preview: Ride or Die for Danny Dimes By KRISH GUPTA Jackson, and, through the draft, and a later round pick. With it, the Giants took UGA Bulldog Ojulari, This choice wasn’t an amazing pick, WR Kadarius Toney and linebacker Giants took the Florida Gators’ a huge steal. Dave Gettleman’s love but he should be a solid depth The NFL has seen a lot of Azeez Ojulari. Quarterback (QB) electrifying WR Toney. Pro Football for Georgia ‘Dawgs continued, and piece. With the Bears’ third round change since the last whistle blew Daniel “Daniel Dimes” Jones now Focus graded Toney as a 99 on a the Giants got a certified dog in pick they acquired via trade, Joe in Tampa in February. One of has no excuses for a poor year, 100-point scale, ahead of Heisman Ojulari. Ojulari was projected to be Judge selected CB Elerson Smith, the biggest success stories of the making Year Three ride or die for winner DeVonta Smith and tied an overall first-round pick but fell in a defender out of Northern Illinois offseason was, shockingly, the New the quarterback room. with LSU’s Ja’Marr Chase for first. the Big Blue’s lap in the mid-second University. Elerson Smith put on 90 York Giants. Here’s a recap of the Giants’ While questionable at the time, this round due to injury concerns. If pounds of muscle in college, saying The Giants had a massive offseason and a look into 2021: decision was a very exciting pick he can stay healthy, Ojulari will mountains about his work ethic. To roster overhaul in the offseason, NFL Draft and will help give Jones even more be a huge addition to the Giants’ round out the 2021 class, the Giants adding wide receiver (WR) Kenny The Giants traded their 11th weapons as he attempts to have a defensive line. added a depth piece in Arizona Golladay, tight end (TE) Kyle overall pick to the Bears, who took bounce back year. In the third round, the Giants Rudolph, cornerback (CB) Adoree’ Justin Fields, for the 20th overall With the 50th overall pick, the took intriguing CB Aaron Robinson. continued on page 26 NHL The Emergence of the Superstar: Hockey’s New Enforcer By KAEDEN RUPAREL best hockey player right now, has smaller yet skilled players. For by 292 percent. The entrance of a ranked in the top half of the league never, and likely will never, start a example, Martin St. Louis, who big-name superstar, specifically in fighting majors. The New York The fast-paced, intense playing physical altercation in his career. stands at 5’8”, played a slippery Svechnikov, saw the Hurricanes Islanders, a top defensive team style with skill and physicality The reason for this likeliness and quick game, using his small garner more fans than ever and in the league, were ranked last mixed throughout is the focal point lies in the dangers presented by size to his advantage, and remains suddenly rise to third in the league in fighting majors, sporting only of hockey’s appeal. This intensity fighting. The mental and physical an outlier in the league’s history. this past season. This sentiment five all season. If fighting doesn’t gives way to hits, occasionally impacts of fighting can be seen in Many players like St. Louis, small of star players bringing in fans is add anything to a team’s chances resulting in fights, and hockey’s Derek Boogaard’s untimely death yet incredibly skilled, have missed echoed in the Florida Panthers’ of winning, nor to the league’s physical reputation. While fighting resulting from chronic traumatic playing opportunities because Aleksander Barkov, the New York popularity, why is fighting still in was never in the original rulebook encephalopathy (CTE) suffered of safety concerns arising from Rangers’ Artemi Panarin, and the the league? for hockey, it makes sense that it from repeated blows to the head. fighting. Take away fighting from New York Islanders’ Mat Barzal Fighting’s downside is clear made an entrance into the NHL Boogaard’s death shocked the the league, and the freedom of (and previously John Tavares). The in the recent matchup between rather quickly. hockey world and the sports world players expands, followed by more NHL’s major problem lies not in the New York Rangers and the In hockey’s history, fighting alike, but his death was not an highlight-reel goals. Creativity the decrease in fights, but in the lack Washington Capitals. Their first has neither been legal or illegal. unprecedented incident for the grows, and the sport promises of superstar quantity, influenced by meeting saw the Rangers’ Panarin Referees may not catch all penalties, NHL. Many fourth-line fighters more big-name players dominating the continued presence of fighting suffer a season-ending injury so fighting regulations are in place like Boogaard have passed away the league, as seen in the NBA and in the league. In fact, according fighting Capitals’ enforcer Tom if a major hit or injury occurs. from CTEs, and many others have NFL. Today, the NHL’s superstars to The Hockey News, there was Wilson. Wilson never received The current commissioner, Gary suffered from depression as well as are just those, superstars, because an increase in attendance as fights a suspension, and the aftermath Bettman, encourages fighting, severe anger and aggression issues. of their rarity. Andrei Svechnikov’s decreased and vice versa. So, of the game resulted in outrage believing the popularity resulting Probert, known for his fighting Michigan goal, McDavid’s end- Bettman’s belief that fighting leads from hockey fans everywhere. from said fights outweighs the prowess and physical dominance, to-end rushes, and Matthews’s to increased popularity is incorrect. The next game, featuring over major health risks and the hindrance was knocked unconscious from a stunning overtime winners become The cost of Bettman’s ignorance 100 penalty minutes, including six of the game’s development. fight. Garrett Klotz, a minor league more commonplace as fighting had led to star players, or impact fights in the opening 10 minutes, Bettman’s sentiment with this player, had seizures and was forced decreases. The Toronto Maple players, as Kyle Dubas calls them, was not disappointing from an popularity is not unsupported. to undergo surgery to “reconstruct Leafs, for example, currently a top- being left out of the league in favor engagement standpoint, displaying Hockey’s popularity saw a surge his face.” The dangers of fighting five team in the league, were built of enforcers who have much lower Bettman’s notion of “fighting when the sport’s physicality have long been brushed aside on skill, not size or physicality. impacts on the game. increasing popularity.” However, increased. The Broad Street Bullies, for their rarity, but it’s clear that Their general manager, Kyle The momentum added by the popularity stemmed from one the nickname for the Philadelphia fighting has a major impact on a Dubas, is a big believer in drafting fighting was a major contributor of the league’s star players getting Flyers in the early 1980s, began player’s life, both physically and impact players, players with clear to the increased popularity during severely injured, not from the dealing their bruising physicality psychologically. talent, not those who can throw a the Broad Street Bullies’ reign. But actual game, signaling a false sense onto other teams at the time. The dangers of fighting hit or are generally larger. fights don’t contribute to a team’s of hope for hockey fans. The New York Islanders, led by a could be mitigated by the positive Similar to the effect of fights, success. Georgetown University’s Fighting’s negligible impact on physical presence in Denis Potvin, effects of fighting. Only, there are the increase in skilled players study found that a fight-winning a game and the sport as a whole, went on to win four straight cups none. While fights were a major has seen a correlating increase team is more likely to concede the combined with its tragic physical in the early ‘80s. Wayne Gretzky, contributor to hockey’s popularity in the NHL’s popularity. Take next goal. Georgetown’s Xavier implications, illustrate that it’s dubbed the Great One, who is surge in the ‘70s, they no longer the Carolina Hurricanes from Weisenreder’s research found that time for it to go. The hindrance arguably the greatest player in belong in the sport. Over the Raleigh, a city in North Carolina “there is no evidence that winning of superstar emergence and the hockey history, was surrounded past decades, fighting’s frequency not particularly known for its a fight leads to better results in the game’s evolution has given way to by enforcers ready to protect him has nosedived, demonstrating the hockey. The Canes built a team immediate aftermath of the fight.” heavy opposition from the new from the Broad Street Bullies and new emphasis being placed on a centered around their star winger, He also concluded that a fight is generation of players and fans alike. the Bob Proberts of the game. skill-dominated sport, flaunting Svechnikov, which has played off worth 1/80 of a win in a given As the game evolves to become Gretzky, known for his speed and fast, creative players like Auston stunningly for them. The season game (contrast this to a goal being dominated by skilled players of skill, even fought several times Matthews and McDavid. Fighting’s before Svechnikov’s arrival, the worth one-fifth of a win). The lack McDavid’s and Matthews’s caliber, in his career, demonstrating how presence in the sport prevents Canes ranked dead last in season of impact of fights can be seen too the league must also evolve to physical hockey was in the ‘80s and this evolution from continuing as ticket sales. Just after his rookie by examining the NHL’s top five welcome this new and more ‘90s. fights slow down the game’s tempo season finished, the Canes saw their teams from the recent season. Only entertaining version of hockey. Connor McDavid, the world’s and take opportunities away from season ticket memberships increase one top team (the Florida Panthers) Page 26 The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Sports NBA Predicting the NBA Playoffs By PHILLIP PHAN Heat bounced the Bucks in five time in the playoffs since 2012-2013. of the west’s best teams and are and more firepower, the Blazers will games. The Heat has struggled all Led by Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks coming into the playoffs looking best the Nuggets in seven games. In a shortened schedule with season with injuries and COVID-19 have emerged as a young, hungry, for redemption after blowing a 3-1 In the east, the Brooklyn Nets only 62 games, crowdless stadiums, protocol, which may have been and defensive-minded fourth lead to the Nuggets last year. The and Philadelphia 76ers will easily and endless COVID-19 protocols, caused by a short off-season due to seed. They’re the top of the NBA Mavericks have created one of the make it out of the first round. The this NBA season has been anything their finals appearance. The Heat defensively, and they are offensively most efficient offenses in the league, Wizards lack the depth to compete but normal. Nevertheless, 62 failed to make any big acquisitions led by MVP candidates Julius Randle surrounding star Dončić with Tim with these teams, and the only way games have come and gone, and besides Victor Oladipo, but he’s out and Derrick Rose. The Knicks have Hardaway and Kristaps Porziņģis. they can win a series is if Russell the playoffs began on May 18, for the rest of the season with an home court advantage and have After getting off to a slow start, the Westbrook and Bradley Beal play starting with the play-in tournament injury to his right quad. The team has been playing excellent basketball Mavs have established themselves as the best basketball of their careers. between the Boston Celtics and seemingly regressed but has had a since All-Star break. They matchup a contender. However, the Clippers The Celtics are demoralized, and Washington Wizards and the resurgence with the return of Jimmy well against the Hawks, who are led will take this series in six. the injury to Jaylen Brown really sets Indiana Pacers and Charlotte Butler in the second half of the by Trae Young. The Hawks have The Nuggets and the them back from competing with the Hornets, which determined who season. The Bucks made important some playoff experience but have Trailblazers face each other as the elite teams. In the west, the Phoenix the first and second seed will moves in the off-season, acquiring defensive trouble and many nagging third and sixth seed. The Nuggets Suns will likely be facing the Los play. On May 19, in the Western Jrue Holiday, who is an all NBA injuries on players like Kevin have had a career year from Nikola Angeles Lakers, and the Utah Jazz Conference, the Grizzlies took defender, and P.J. Tucker, a solid Huerter, Clint Capela, and Cam Jokić, who is the front runner for will probably face the Golden State on the Spurs and the Lakers faced glue guy. Giannis Antetokounmpo Reddish. Knicks in five. MVP this year. Though his co-star, Warriors. Though they are the the Warriors. Will the defending is having another MVP caliber Over in the west, the fourth Jamal Murray, has been out, the seventh seed, the Lakers have two champs have an early exit? Are the year, and the Bucks are scary with seed Clippers face the fifth seed team has not missed a beat and has of the top five players in the world, Suns legitimate contenders? Will the a core of Antetokounmpo, Holiday, Mavericks. The Clippers faced the shown incredible depth through LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Nets superteam be a failed project? and Khris Middleton. Despite Mavericks last year in a competitive players like Michael Porter Jr. and It’s simple. The Lakers will win the Will there be any historic upsets? the Bucks’ revamped roster, the series, highlighted by a Luka Dončić Aaron Gordon. The Trailblazers series in six games. The Warriors, on We are set for a historical playoffs, Heat is still a bad matchup for the game winner. The Clippers beat have had a rocky season, but they the other hand, are facing the first and NBA fans have every reason to Bucks, and Bam Adebayo will stop the Mavericks in six games. This have the talent to compete with seed Jazz. It’ll be a close series but be excited. Antetokounmpo. The Heat will win year, the Clippers have a new coach anybody. A team with Damian Stephen Curry is having a ridiculous In the east, the first matchup in an all-out, seven-game war. in Tyronn Lue and new additions Lillard, CJ McCollum, and Norman year, averaging 32 points. Curry will is the third seed Bucks vs. the The fourth and fifth seed including Rajon Rondo, Serge Ibaka, Powell could cause trouble for any carry the Warriors to a seven-game sixth seed Heat, a rematch of last matchup is between the Hawks and Nic Batum, and DeMarcus Cousins. team in the playoffs. Backed with series win. year’s second round, when the the Knicks. This is the Knicks’ first The Clippers have remained one Carmelo Anthony off the bench NFL Big Blue 2021 Preview: Ride or Die for Danny Dimes instant WR1 who should become was received very well by fans, as he and an excellent defense, Jones has With the schedule extended to continued from page 25 Dimes’s favorite target. Golladay’s was not too expensive and seemed Golladay, Sterling Shepard, Darius 17 games, the Giants have a clear athleticism is off the charts, and to be a rising star in Tennessee. Slayton, Golden Tate, Rudolph, and path to a 10-7 or 9-8 season, which, running back Gary Brightwell he is especially known for his yards Adoree’ Jackson practiced in Engram to throw to. If he turns given the strength of the NFC East, and selected intriguing defender after catch totals. Nashville across A.J. Brown, so he up, the Giants have a strong case will probably be enough for the title. Rodarius Williams with their last The Giants also picked up TE has great experience as well. He also for being NFC East and NFC title 9-8 is a very conservative prediction, pick. Rudolph. Rudolph is a vertical has playoff appearances and crucial contenders. in which the Giants get swept in Offseason playmaker and was a red zone wins, including a clutch performance In addition, the Giants’ top the Cowboys series and beat only Much to most Giants fans’ stalwart for Kirk Cousins and the two years ago that ended the era of 10 defense only got stronger with weaker teams. A season of 10-7 or surprise, GM Gettleman actually Minnesota Vikings. He joins a the dynasty of Tom Brady and the Adoree’ Jackson and Ojulari now in even 11-6 is very feasible with only had a very successful offseason. crowded tight end room with Evan Patriots and a playoff upset over the fold. With no key losses, the unit one or two upset wins. Overall, The triumph began when the Engram and Kaden Smith, so look MVP Lamar Jackson’s Ravens. will keep Jones and the offense on it isn’t crazy to hope for a playoff Giants got the best WR available for the G-men to try more three 2021 Preview the field for long stretches. The only berth, due to a combination of the on the market, the Lions’ Golladay. tight end schemes like the ones the There’s no two ways about it: it’s question is what Jason Garrett can now stacked team and a relatively Golladay was limited in 2020 by Titans and Ravens experimented make or break for Jones in 2021. He do with the Giants’ offense. With weak schedule. injury, but he balled out in 2019 with last year. is now in Year Three, and the G-men Saquon Barkley also returning to All we need now is for Jones to with Detroit, putting up 1,190 The Giants also acquired Titans’ will move on from him if he doesn’t full strength, the Giants team is very flip the switch. So flip the switch for yards and 11 touchdowns. He is an CB Adoree’ Jackson. This pickup perform. Behind a decent O-Line fearsome. goodness’ sake, Jones. NFL Fastest On the Football Field, Slowest On the Track By TAEE CHI, AIDAN LOOK, race against professional sprinters maintain his acceleration in the long speed. “There is as much strategy event and 20.14 seconds for the and JEFFREY TAN in the USATF Golden Games run and ultimately finished behind running 100 meters as running a 200-meter event (ranking him on May 9. He finished last in his everyone else in his heat. Metcalf ’s marathon,” Noah Lyles, one of the sixth in the United States in 2012). Imagine a 6’4”, 230-pound heat and 15th out of 17 total inability to maintain his top speed world’s fastest sprinters and winner Hill has also won a multitude of behemoth barreling toward you at competitors, recording a subpar was crucial in determining the of the 200-meter event in the track awards, including a gold the speed of an Olympic sprinter. time of 10.36 seconds and proving end result as sprinters need to be 2019 Track World Championships, medal for the 4x100-meter relay That’s what Budda Baker, a that there remains a huge disparity strategic with how they accelerate. said. Lyles’s 100-meter personal event and a bronze medal for the safety for the Arizona Cardinals, between track and football speeds. Most runners hit their maximum record is 9.86 seconds, a massive 200-meter event at the World experienced during a game against Following the race, Metcalf said, speed somewhere between the 0.5 seconds faster than Metcalf ’s Junior Championships in 2012. the Seattle Seahawks last October. recent performance. “Fans have Of course, Hill is a great exception Baker had come off an impressive been egging this [idea] that our among other NFL players due to interception and was close to speeds are comparable [on for a his extensive track background securing six points for his team long time]. They’re not,” Lyles said. and skills. However, he would still when he was chased down and Though Metcalf ultimately require much more training to be tackled at the seven-yard line by failed to qualify for the final able to compete with Olympic number 14 on the Seahawks, DK at the Golden Games, the All- sprinters. Metcalf. In the play, Metcalf hit Pro receiver earned respect for Given Hill’s times, it’s clear that a top speed of over 22 miles per challenging himself against the top a vast majority of NFL players hour, an especially impressive feat talent in the world in another sport. would not be able to compete at the considering the helmet and pads he Metcalf only trained for two or Olympic level. This sentiment has was wearing while running. three months prior to the event and also been expressed by Ato Boldon, Metcalf, the 23-year-old wide did not embarrass himself, which is a former track and field athlete for receiver from Oxford, Mississippi, an already considerable feat. Trinidad and Tobago and a four- is widely regarded as one of the From the current lineup of time Olympic medalist. Boldon also fastest players in the NFL. Despite NFL players, one other player coaches NFL players in preparation his colossal size, he is able to attain stands out besides Metcalf: Tyreek for their 40-yard dashes at the NFL speeds that few others in the league Hill. A wide receiver for the Kansas Scouting Combine and claimed that can match. At the 2020 Combine, City Chiefs, Hill is known to be a Hill’s chances of qualifying for the he recorded an impressive 4.33 speed demon (hence, the nickname Olympics would be a “long shot.”

second 40-yard dash, one of the / The Evangelinos Spectator Nicholas “Cheetah”) and recorded a 40- The possibility of competing at highest speeds in his draft class. To yard dash time of 4.29 seconds the Olympics has intrigued many put this number into perspective, “These are world class athletes. 60 and 80-meter marks, and the at the 2016 NFL Combine. Hill football players, but most will never the average 40-yard dash time for They do this for a living. It’s very athlete who wins is usually the one previously pursued his track talents have the opportunity to do so. a wide receiver like Metcalf is 4.48, different from football speed, from who manages to slow down the in high school, but due to the Being able to compete with world- a huge difference in a sprint often what I just realized.” least rather than the one who can wear and tear he has experienced class athletes in a different sport decided by hundredths of a second. The NFL star’s lack of formal speed up the fastest. The ability to during his five-year NFL career, would require years of focused It’s no secret that Metcalf is an training and experience in the maintain as much speed as possible his performance as a world-class training, which would be impossible elite athlete. But how does he stack 100-meter event was clear from while decelerating to the finish sprinter has diminished. At age to maintain in conjunction with an up against track athletes, who train his technique. At the beginning of line is a difficult one to master, 18, Hill was able to compete with NFL season. It’s probably best for for the specific purpose of attaining the race, Metcalf got a strong start which is why most football players the top sprinters in his age group. NFL players to do what they do the fastest speeds possible? Metcalf and was able to keep pace with his such as Metcalf fall short in sprint He recorded a personal best of best: play the game of football. participated in his first 100-meter competitors. However, he couldn’t events despite possessing raw 10.19 seconds for the 100-meter The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 Page 27 Sports Gymnastics Simone Biles: Already Considered the G.O.A.T, Is She Done Yet? By ALICIA YU When you stack other elite “[younger athletes] have less years tics committee didn’t do enough Biles will shine on the big stage gymnasts against her, Biles is than me, so I feel like they’re a to implement change in the sport. once again in Tokyo. But ques- During the Rio 2016 Olympics, miles ahead. It seems like in every little bit fresher. They can recov- As she said, “I just feel like every- tions still ring in skeptics’ heads: all eyes were on 19-year-old other competition, she performs er quicker.” Despite the age gap thing that happened had to come can she really continue her domi- Simone Biles. It was no surprise a new trick that no one else has against her competition, she seems back to the sport, to be a voice, nance? Can she really be even that the USA was in great shape done before. She has four tricks more than ready. The Olympics to have change happen because better than she was in 2016? She coming into Rio, but Biles took named after her, dubbed “The are less than two months away, but I feel like if there weren’t a re- certainly thinks so: “I had already it to even greater heights. The Biles,” which are the hardest tricks Biles has remained at the top of maining survivor in the sport, reached and passed all my expec- pressure was immense. She that can be done in the sport. her game, training hard in the gym they would have just brushed tations in the sport already […] hadn’t lost in three years at that They include one on the vault (a while making sure she can peak it to the side.” going back to, in 2018 […] and in point, but when it finally came roundoff, back handspring with at the right time. However, Biles’s Additionally, she has 2019, I was kind of like, ‘Okay, I to the competition, she didn’t half turn entry; front stretched impact on the sport goes beyond been adamant about her don’t really have anything to lose disappoint. Flip after flip, Biles somersault with two twists), just her greatness in competition. switch in sponsorship, from at this point. I’ve already stamped landed everything with ease and one on the balance beam (a Biles went on a hiatus from her once lucrative deal with my status on the sport.’” was able to secure the gold in four double-twisting double-tuck salto gymnastics in 2017, Nike to Gap’s Athleta, The fact is, nobody even events: the vault, floor, all-around, backwards dismount), and two taking a break a company that puts comes close to Biles’s consistency and team events, as well as a on the floor (a double layout from constantly a greater focus on or dominance. The elite gymnasts bronze in the balance beam. Now, with a half twist, which only four competing women. This are all in one tier of greatness, but despite being 24 years of age, she people, including Biles, have been and training, change fol- Biles is in a tier of her own, higher is projected to do even better in successful in doing, as well as the traveling and writ- ing lows many than any gymnast to ever play the Tokyo, and statistically, she is even triple-twisting double-tuck salto her autobiography i n other elite fe- sport. Biles is an inspiration to better than she was at 19. Biles has backwards). the meantime. But just male athletes, such all for her values and hard work, made a strong case for herself as Training for Tokyo 2021, Biles the follow- Yume Igarashi / The Spectator as Allyson Felix, in among many of the other traits the greatest gymnast of all time, is not only one of the most expe- ing year, she their switch to com- she possesses. She will finish her having garnered every possible rienced, but also one of the oldest came back. She felt like she had panies that place higher values on career as not just the best gymnast accolade at the highest level in gymnasts on the national team at something to give back, not just women and ethics. This transition ever to come out of the sport, gymnastics and is one of the most 24 years old. If she wins this year’s to the sport itself, but also to the comes as no surprise as Nike has but as one of the best and most influential athletes in the world. Olympics, she may be the oldest community around her. After the been put under fire for not just is- dominant athletes across all sports After 25 world championship American woman to win the all- Larry Nassar scandal, when over sues with women, but for issues ever. medals and four Olympic gold around gold in the Olympics. In 260 victims testified against Nas- with workplace abuse and envi- medals, she is still going. In fact, an interview with TODAY, she sar, the former USA Gymnastics ronmental practices as well, in re- she is arguably becoming even mentioned how she thinks about national team doctor, for sexual cent years. more dominant. her age “all the time,” and that abuse, Biles felt that the Gymnas- Just as fans saw in Rio 2016, NFL How Did Justin Fields Fall in the NFL Draft? By MAX SCHNEIDER interceptions. than the top talent today. and Dwayne Haskins). All three ter concerns due to a supposed While Wilson was As these other players subsequently became busts and “lack of passion and drive.” The The college football world the eventual pick for the Jets rose in the eyes of scouts, Fields have struggled to play to the Undefeated’s Martenzie Johnson watched in wonder as Ohio at number two overall, he was was criticized in several areas, the level they did at Ohio State. This wrote that this ridiculous labeling State dominated the top-seeded not the only one who surpassed first one being his performance result, however, is similar to the is due to Fields’s race. In respond- Clemson Tigers to win the College Fields. The eventual number against good defenses. As Todd performances from Mahomes ing to quotes for league personel Football Playoff Semifinal on three pick was a quarterback McShay, an ESPN draft expert, at Texas Tech, Aaron Rodgers criticizing Fields’s attitude, he said New Year’s Day 2021. In a drafted by the San Francisco said on ESPN’s Get Up, “If you at Cal, and Jackson at Louisville. “According to these anonymous major upset, senior quarterback 49ers, Trey Lance. Lance comes go back and study games against Other than Jackson, Mahomes, personnel, Fields, a Black man, Justin Fields threw seven from FCS powerhouse North Indiana [and] Northwestern and and Rodgers, Louisville has had struggles to ‘process things’ and total touchdowns, completely Dakota State. He spent one then the College Football Playoff five quarterbacks (one combined is both selfish and doesn’t have outplaying generational superstar season as the starting quarterback National Champion- Pro Bowl appearance), the work ethic of a white man. Trevor Lawrence and booking a with the Bison, obliterating his ship Game against Texas Tech has The dog whistle is screeching.” spot in the Championship Game. incredibly weak competition en Alabama, he had two quarter- He then brought up last year’s The Buckeyes ended up losing route to the FCS title. He has only completed backs (zero Pro draft, saying, “Take for instance that game to juggernaut Alabama, played 17 games and had over 25 around 52 Bowls), and Cal the draft profiles of the first four but Fields had solidified himself pass attempts twice. His lack of percent of his has had three white and Black quarterbacks to as the front-runner for the appearances and weak schedule throws with quarterbacks be drafted in 2020. Joe Burrow number two overall pick in the made him a gigantic unknown to five intercep- (two Pro and [Justin] Herbert, both white, 2021 NFL draft. Fast forward scouts, who were hoping that his tions in those Bowls) go had ‘off-the-charts football IQ’ to May, and Fields is the starting outrageous athleticism was a sign games.” to the NFL and could ‘[scan] crisply through QB for the Chicago Bears, who of a good career. These facts since 2000. [a] full slate of progressions selected him at number 11 overall. Mac Jones, on the other are all valid, Yet, these without panic,’ respectively. But You would think Fields must have hand, is a clear-cut prospect. but they omit three quarter- Jordan Love had ‘below-average gotten hurt, had off-the-field Mac Jones played in the SEC, the some key infor- backs, Mahomes, decision-making against zone problems, faced a bad pro day, best conference, for Alabama, mation. The most Rodgers, and looks’ and Jalen Hurts had ‘slow or did something else to hurt his the best team. He used a high glaring error in this Jackson, are the recognition of early-throw op- draft stock, but he didn’t. So, what completion percentage and assessment is his last three league portunities.’” happened to cause the slide? a strong cast of weapons to performance against MVPs and are His assessment of the To start, let’s look at who dominate college football, Clemson mentioned standout players. situation is absolutely correct. replaced him. With the second going undefeated and winning above. He only To judge players The league has a long history of pick in the draft, the New York the National Championship. played one drive in Laurina Xie / The Spectator off their almae matres unfairly evaluating Black players Jets selected Zach Wilson out The concerning part of that the whole second half and still is absurd and has no basis in re- that has not stopped. Criticizing of Brigham Young University accomplishment is how strong put up gaudy numbers against a ality. Fields for his character, when (BYU). Wilson was lauded for the weapons were. Mac Jones Clemson defense that was ranked The last detraction is perhaps compared to Wilson and Mac his strong arm and acrobatic was throwing to DeVonta Smith as the number three defense by the strangest. Fans have slapped Jones, should be a joke, and yet it pro days, rocketing up to the and Jaylen Waddle and handing Football Outsiders, only behind Fields with having “character con- is the reality of today’s NFL. top of people’s draft boards. the ball to Najee Harris. With the Northwestern and Cincinnati cerns” the likes of which aren’t As the number 11 pick, Fields However, picking Wilson was a three of them joined in the first (who is not in a Power Five con- found in good players. This criti- will be paid a projected $18.9 risky prospect. BYU is currently round by offensive tackle Alex ference). Additionally, Fields’s cism is odd, because of the five million yearly. Wilson will receive an independent team, not in any Leatherwood, their offense had weapons lagged significantly be- quarterbacks in the first round, he a projected $35.1 million. I’ll do of the Power Five conferences, the most top-end talent in the hind those of Lawrence and Mac is not even in the top two in char- the math for you. That is a $16.2 which meant he played very weak nation. However, it did not just Jones, the only other first round acter concerns. Wilson has had million difference, $16.2 million competition, only playing two stop there, with ninth overall pick quarterbacks with similarly diffi- people accuse him of being enti- ripped out of the hands of a man games against top 25 teams, one Alabama CB Patrick Surtain II cult schedules. In the 2021 draft, tled, and looks the part, and point who has suffered a punishment of which he lost. Additionally, highlighting their strong defense. Ohio State only had five offensive out his failure to be voted cap- for doing nothing wrong. In a he often used his team’s superior Mac Jones certainly has skill, but players drafted, none of which tain by his college teammates as sport where the average player talent to his advantage, repeatedly it was enhanced by throwing to an were wide receivers. When com- a three-year starter. For reference, has a four year career, these throwing high 50/50 balls NFL caliber team. The question pared to Alabama’s seven offen- all NFL starting quarterbacks are monetary discrepancies have and letting his receivers make that his talent hinges on is how sive players (two receivers) and captains, along with almost all large impacts on the rest of these acrobatic plays. There is concern strong that enhancement was. Clemson’s five (two receivers), college quarterbacks. That repu- young men’s lives. It is time we that NFL defensive backs will The other question is of Mac it is understandable that Fields tation pales in comparison to that stop unfairly evaluating players capitalize on these passes and Jones’s athleticism. With the would struggle against teams with of Mac Jones. As a freshman at like Fields because not only is create turnovers. Wilson also NFL being dominated by athletic several NFL caliber players on Alabama, Mac Jones was arrested it wrong morally, but it is also has clear durability issues, having quarterbacks such as Patrick defense. for a DUI at age 19. As a teenag- hurting the teams who listen to suffered a torn labrum and broken Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Lamar Fields was also criticized for er, Mac Jones wore a “Nobama” these evaluations. wrist in college. These injuries led Jackson, Mac Jones’s play style his going to Ohio State. Ohio costume that showed a blatantly to horrendous statistics in 2019, would stick out. He is very much State has produced three NFL racist depiction of former presi- when he had a measly 2,382 yards, a pocket passer more reminiscent quarterbacks in the last 10 years dent Barack Obama. Yet, Fields with 11 touchdowns and nine of Tom Brady and Dan Marino (Terrelle Pryor, Cardale Jones, is the one labeled with charac- Page 28 The Spectator ● June 1, 2021 THE SPECTATOR SPORTS NBA A Phoenix From the Ashes By JAMES KANG the Phoenix team, Robert Sarver, exceptional playmaking, ball-han- and Langston Galloway shine be- ing for Monty [Williams and] how made one of the worst trades in dling, and scoring skills have once hind the three-point arc. Crowder detail-oriented he is.” Being a fan of the Phoenix franchise history by trading away again acted as the driving force be- has also helped Deandre Ayton Through his leadership and Suns in recent years has been hard, their only star player, Nash, to Los hind the success of his team, hav- step up both offensively and de- experience, Paul has even led the to say the least. Year after year, Angeles for two future first-round ing a 39.5 percent for three-point- fensively. Ayton averages 10.5 re- bench players to have outstanding the Suns were regarded as one of draft picks, two future second- ers and 8.9 assists per game. bounds per game and is scoring at performances. The Phoenix Suns the worst franchises in the NBA, round draft picks, and $3 million. Veteran forward Jae Crowder a 62.6 field goal percentage, which bench was able to outscore the even by their own supporters. But The organization won a total of was also a great addition to the is the best in his career. Los Angeles bench 28-8 in the first all of that is changing this year, as only 199 games and cycled through team. Before his signing with the Overall, these factors have half. Center Frank Kaminsky led the Suns have finally clinched their five new head coaches from 2012 Suns, Crowder was a part of the helped the Suns once again rise the team with 13 points at halftime, first playoff berth in over a decade, to 2019. Moreover, the Suns threw Miami Heat’s surprise run to the through the standings like a phoe- and shooting guard Cameron Payne and fans have something to look away prime opportunities to draft NBA finals last year. Crowder nix from the ashes. On the night scored 15 points off the bench. forward to at last. future All-Star players such as seemed to have an Phoenix secured Eventually, the game concluded The last time the Suns made the Kawhi Leonard, Jimmy Butler, and influence on the a spot in the post- with Phoenix winning 109-101, playoffs was in 2010, when they had Giannis Antetokounmpo, instead three-point season, they finally improving to a 44-18 record and veteran Steve Nash as their point drafting players who would end percent- managed to beat the putting them within firing range for guard and Amar’e Stoudemire as up underwhelming on most fronts. age of his Clippers, who won the top seed in the west. their center. The two led the Suns Worst of all, the Phoenix Suns team, the first two season Though the Suns have clinched to a 54-28 record, allowing them to became a meme in 2017 when which games against the Suns. a spot as the second seed of the clinch the third seed in the Western they set the worst loss in franchise w a s Booker scored 21 points Western Conference, they now face Conference. The Suns then went history and worst loss margin for the and had six rebounds, and their ultimate playoff challenge: on to beat the Portland Trailblazers an opening game in NBA history Paul scored 28 points and the Los Angeles Lakers. Not only 4-2 at the first round of the playoffs, and went on to have the worst had 10 assists. Paul, who was are the Suns playing against the followed by a sweep against the San record in the league. playing in his 16th NBA sea- defending NBA champions, but Antonio Spurs in the Conference However, the Phoenix Suns son, showed that he still was a they have come full circle as they Semifinals. Their final challenge have now entered the dawn of a force to reckon with. He made 10 have a chance to get their revenge was the defending champion Los new era with the addition of Chris Julia Shen / The Spectator shots out of 15 attempts, and half from 10 years ago. Luckily, the Suns Angeles Lakers in the Conference Paul. Paul, who was traded for of those were made in the fourth have beaten the Lakers twice out Finals. Unfortunately, Derek Fisher a few players and a 2022 first- quarter. In the fourth quarter, fans of a three-season series, and they broke Nash’s nose in game three of round pick, is well known for showered Paul with MVP chants, hope to continue their dominance the series, and the Suns eventually significantly improving any praising his contributions to the this season through the playoffs. lost the series 4-2. team that he arrives in (a team. However, Paul wasn’t even “We are not satisfied. We’re not But what Suns fans didn’t expect phenomenon known as the surprised because he already knew settling,” Suns coach Williams said. was how far downhill it would go Chris Paul effect). The 10- case it was his job to elevate this team to “We feel like we’re just scratching from there. Head coach Steve Kerr, time All-Star has already once success. “I know who I am,” Paul the surface.” The future now seems who has now won three titles as the worked with other elite guards in again in Phoenix. While Crowder said. “Coming to this situation, I sun-bright for Phoenix basketball. Warriors head coach, announced previous years and had no trouble doesn’t put up big numbers, his knew who [Devin Booker] was. He his resignation as the Suns’ general becoming a leader for the team, presence on the court has helped told me about some of the guys manager in 2010. The owner of especially for Devin Booker. Paul’s young guards like Mikal Bridges on the team. I knew [about] play- UCL English Domination in the Champions League By MATT MELUCCI and Saint-Germain (PSG), which had to disrupt Chelsea’s defensive well, bringing two different clubs to City. In the recent victory against SHAFIUL HAQUE made it to last year’s Champions structure by keeping possession of the UCL final in consecutive years. Leicester, top Chelsea players League final. Though many were the ball and with well-timed passing Tuchel is known for his effective Kai Havertz and N’Golo Kanté Two teams from the Big Six expecting PSG to reach the finals in the final third. Keep in mind, it is player development and tactics, and sustained injuries, but Tuchel hopes (which consists of Manchester with the likes of superstars Kylian Manchester City’s first time making his track record in the Champions to have them back for their last United, Liverpool, Arsenal, Mbappé and Neymar Jr., it was it to the UCL final in its history, and League makes him an excellent game of the EPL season against Chelsea, Manchester City, and Manchester City that emerged Guardiola should make sure that he coach for the UCL final against Aston Villa on May 23. Tottenham Hotspur) are yet victorious, defeating the French doesn’t overthink his game plans in Manchester City, which has never The 2021 UCL final will be the again the top contenders for the club 4-1 aggregate. Both fans and preparation for match day. City has reached the final before. third all-English final in history Champions League title. English players alike of Manchester City already wrapped up business in the Tuchel has been quite successful, but the second in the past three teams Manchester City FC and celebrated as it was the club’s first Premier League, and the players will particularly in strengthening the years. There has been a clear shift Chelsea FC will vie for the time reaching the UCL final. be sure to give it all in the UCL final backline at Stamford Bridge and in the Champions League as the prestigious trophy in the Estádio do There is a lot of praise toward in hopes of a treble. keeping clean sheets. On attack, he Premier League not only continues Dragão stadium in Porto, Portugal star players Phil Foden and Riyad Chelsea’s record is inferior to has relied on counter attacks to put to dominate European soccer on May 29. Both teams have had Mahrez, who displayed their Manchester City’s in the Champions in goals, which did not work well financially, but is also taking over their fair share of struggles during quality and goal-scoring ability League this year. With only one loss against Arsenal and Leicester City continental tournaments, knocking the COVID-19 pandemic but in these decisive matches. Foden to Porto in the second leg of the in recent games. Doubts began to out the top teams from other managed to impress this season. has had an amazing season so quarter-final, Chelsea holds eight surround Chelsea and Tuchel after nations. The English triumph City ended up losing to Liverpool far, with 14 goals and 10 assists wins and three draws. The squad a 1-0 loss to Arsenal and a 1-0 loss makes sense as top Premier League FC in the 2019-2020 Premier in all competitions. The 20-year- started off in Group E, where it to Leicester in the FA Cup Final. teams have access to more resources League title race after having won old English international has quickly rose to first place, surpassing Despite Chelsea’s two victories over from the television deal revenue two titles in a row. However, City established himself in the starting Sevilla FC, FC Krasnodar, and Manchester City over 21 days, fans advantage over other nations’ clubs, manager Pep Guardiola and his 11 with a creative eye and an Stade Rennais FC. Chelsea breezed and critics alike became skeptical and their physicality and clever players have improved during exquisite left foot. Likewise, Mahrez past Atlético Madrid, the top club over Chelsea’s ability to beat tactics continue to surpass those of this season, winning the Premier has had his best season yet at the from La Liga, in the Round of 16, Manchester City in the UCL final other squads. While Chelsea heads League and the EFL Cup. Chelsea Manchester club, finding his place winning by an aggregate score of based on recent luck. After the FA to the Champions League final as a has also been through tough times back into the squad. The 30-year- 3-0, and proceeded to struggle past Cup final, however, Chelsea proved clear favorite looking for its second under the reign of soccer legend old winger has been crucial for FC Porto 2-1 aggregate score in itself in a second matchup against Champions League win, the 2021 Frank Lampard, who was sacked in City in the knockout ties, scoring the quarter-final. In the semifinal, Leicester City, in which the squad UCL final will be a must-watch January 2021 after a run of defeats. a penalty to win against Dortmund the Blues were next up against the defeated Leicester 2-1, solidifying matchup as Manchester City vies Manager Thomas Tuchel quickly and scoring three times across both only Spanish club remaining in the its prowess and ability to emerge for its first Champions League title took over and by strengthening legs against PSG. Additionally, City competition, Real Madrid, which victorious against Manchester in its club history. Chelsea’s defense, has helped has benefited from outstanding play they beat 3-1 over two legs. Chelsea the club qualify for the FA Cup from attacking midfielders Kevin had made it to the Champions final and move to fourth in the de Bruyne and İlkay Gündoğan, League final for the third time in Premier League. With two brilliant alternating wingbacks João Cancelo the club’s history. managers, many skilled players, and and Kyle Walker, and defensive duo Coincidentally, for all three SPORTSBEAT avid fans, the 2020-2021 UCL final John Stones and Rúben Dias. UCL runs in which Chelsea has is sure to be an unpredictable one. Though City may be at a reached the final, the club sacked Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors failed to qualify for the This season, Manchester disadvantage having lost twice its manager mid-season. This past NBA Playoffs after getting knocked out in the new play-in game by Ja City has remained undefeated in against Chelsea this season, Mahrez season, Chelsea sacked Lampard Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies. the Champions League, with 11 doesn’t believe so. The Algerian and replaced him with Tuchel in wins and one draw. The club was international said, “Chelsea late January. The decision was first in Group C and advanced [doesn’t] have the psychological understandable. Lampard had led At the U.S. Classic, Simone Biles performed a move, the exalted to the knockout stages of the advantage. All games are different. Chelsea to ninth in the Premier Yurchenko double pike, that no woman had ever attempted before in competition with ease, beating FC But the Champions League Final League and was running the club competition. Porto, Olympique de Marseille, is not the same.” In terms of into the ground with the worst and Olympiacos FC. In the the lineup, Guardiola certainly points-per-game record compared tournament phase, City remained has many options and ideas on to any other manager under Roman The Jacksonville Jaguars signed former quarterback and baseball dominant, defeating Borussia formation. It’s common knowledge Abramovich, the owner of Chelsea player Tim Tebow to a tight end position. Mönchengladbach 4-0 aggregate that Guardiola is an experienced FC. Tuchel had previously managed in the Round of 16 and Borussia and world-class manager. In fact, PSG and shot the club into the Dortmund 4-2 aggregate in the back in his FC Barcelona days, he 2020 UCL final against FC Bayern The NHL Playoffs began, with the New York Islanders qualifying quarter-final. In the semifinal, won the Champions League twice Munich. He made manager history and taking a lead over the Pittsburgh Penguins in their Round One the Citizens were up against Paris in 2009 and 2011. He’ll likely look when he led Chelsea to the final as series.