Acting Mayor Janey Calls on MBTA to Restore Service; Establishes Pilot Program

Vol. 54 iSSUE 24 www.umassmedia.com the massUMass Boston’s independentmedia student newspaper April 05, 2021 Acting Mayor Janey calls on MBTA to restore service; establishes pilot program

By Abigail Basile Essential bus service and Blue Line News Editor service was cut down by five percent as well. On Monday, March 29, Acting The criticism the MBTA has Mayor of Boston Kim Janey allied garnered comes from the amount of with transportation activists in calling funding they have received, and the on MBTA leaders to reverse the cuts fact that this money has not been they have made to transportation used to restore service following services and to restore full, pre- cuts. According to the state’s pandemic service as quickly as congressional delegation, this more possible. The acting mayor also than $1 billion in federal stimulus announced a pilot program that funding should not simply be stored will give workers hardest hit by the away for use if budget issues arise pandemic easier access to public in the future while cuts are currently transportation. being made. Acting Mayor Janey took “We count on essential workers part in the rally organized by the to get us through this pandemic, and Transit is Essential Coalition, which essential workers count on public took place that Monday outside transportation,” said Acting Mayor the Massachusetts Transportation Janey, according to CBS Boston. Building. The rally took place hours “MBTA service cuts shortchange the before the MBTA and MassDOT needs of Boston’s workers and ignore boards met for the first time after the sacrifices they make each day to claiming that they would restore full keep our city running. Service cuts service to the MBTA with their fiscal make buses and trains more crowded, 2022 budget. and undermine our efforts to stop the “Restoring public transportation spread of COVID-19.” is essential to our recovery, reopening That day, the MBTA then voted and renewal as a city,” said Janey to restore the COVID-19-induced according to NBC Boston. “It will cuts in their service. make Boston more fair and more “We are bringing back service equitable.” as fast as we possibly can on bus Cuts were initially made because and subway [lines] with the goal of ridership of trains, buses, and ferries getting to 100 percent of pre-COVID decreased by a large amount with the service levels,” said MBTA General onset of the pandemic. Manager Steve Poftak according to In January, some ferry services WCVB. were reduced, and weekend service However, bringing back service was cut completely on seven is not merely a matter of funding. commuter rail lines. In mid-March, According to boston.com, the MBTA Red, Green, and Orange Line service doesn’t currently have the amount of was cut down by roughly 20 percent, employees necessary to operate the as was non-essential bus service. buses and trains, and they do not have MBTA train sitting at platform. Photo by Dom Ferreira / Mass Media Staff. Continued on page 3 Derek Chauvin murder trial: State Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz is What you need to know considering a run for MA Governor By Abigail Basile By Sara Zakaria News Editor News Writer

On Monday, March 29, the trial of Derek Chauvin for the murder of George Massachusetts State Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz is considering running for governor against Floyd began. Here is a guide to what you need to know regarding this trial as it incumbent Governor Charlie Baker for the 2022 gubernatorial election. continues to progress. Chang-Diaz said in a statement that Massachusetts “need[s] someone in the corner office Background who feels the same urgency working people do” against the “economic, public health, and racial Derek Chauvin is a white, former Minneapolis police officer whose actions on justice” crises in the state. May 25, 2020, sparked outrage throughout the nation. Sen. Chang-Diaz is the first Latinx woman elected to the Massachusetts State Senate. On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, a black man, was arrested and handcuffed She represents the Second Suffolk District as a Democrat, which includes parts of Dorchester, by Chauvin and three other former officers after allegedly refusing to pay after he Jamaica Plain, Hyde Park, Mattapan, Mission Hill, Roslindale, Roxbury, and the South End. She attempted to use a counterfeit $20 bill at a corner store in Minneapolis. is currently serving her seventh term. Chauvin pressed his knee on Floyd’s neck while he was handcuffed and on the Chang-Diaz is the Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy and the Joint ground for about nine minutes. Floyd told the officers that he could not breathe more Committee on Children, Families, and Persons with Disabilities. She is also a co-chair of the than 20 times during the interaction. Floyd died later that day in police custody. A Massachusetts State Senate’s Racial Justice Working Group. video released of Chauvin with his knee on Floyd’s neck went viral. Before she was elected, Chang-Diaz was a teacher for Lynn Public Schools and Boston On May 29, 2020, Chauvin was arrested and charged with the murder of George Public Schools. She was also the Director of Outreach at the Massachusetts Budget and Policy Floyd. Center and a political adviser at the Barbara Lee Family Foundation.

Continued on page 3 Continued on page 3 www.umassmedia.com News 3 Acting Mayor Janey calls on MBTA to restore service; establishes pilot program

Abigaile Basile Janey also announced the Main passes from March 29 to April 19. workers in Nubian Square, Three https://www.boston.gov/ News Editor Streets Free Public Transit Pilot The MBTA pass will come in the Squares (Jackson, Hyde, and departments/transportation/main- an estimate for when they will have which will aid the workers that form of a CharlieCard preloaded Canary) in Jamaica Plain, Mission streets-free-public-transit-pilot, or new drivers hired and trained. have been hit the hardest by the with $60, and the Bluebikes pass Hill, East Boston, and Fields by texting “free ride” to 866-396- Along with demonstrating her pandemic. will be eligible for two months. Corner. 0122. support for a transparent restoration 1,000 workers will be eligible Those eligible to sign up In order to sign up, those who of MBTA service, Acting Mayor to receive free MBTA and Bluebikes immediately for this program are are eligible can visit Derek Chauvin murder trial: What you need to know Abigail Basile “is considered unusually diverse by News Editor local standards.” The Defense The Charges Eric Nelson of Halberg Chauvin faces three charges Criminal Defense is representing for the murder of George Floyd in Chauvin. Chauvin’s legal fees are this trial. One for second-degree being covered by the Minnesota unintentional murder, one for third- Police and Peace Officers degree murder, and one for second- Association. degree manslaughter. According to CBC, Nelson The charge of second-degree will likely look to the autopsies for murder carries a penalty of up to his defense. He is likely to argue 40 years in prison. Third-degree that Floyd’s death was a result of murder is punishable by up to 25 an underlying health condition years in prison, while second- and drug use, rather than the force degree manslaughter holds a placed on his neck by Chauvin. maximum sentence of 10 years. The Prosecution The third-degree murder The prosecution for any charge was originally dismissed cases regarding Floyd’s death was by Hennepin County District Court appointed by Minnesota Governor Judge Peter Cahill, however, Judge Tim Walz just days after the original Derek Chauvin mugshot next to George Floyd. Illustration by Delaney Hooper / Mass Media Staff. Cahill later reestablished the charge incident. State Attorney General following the Minnesota Court of Keith Ellison was appointed to lead Witnesses included a who was at the scene, Seth Zachary paramedic said: “In lay terms, I Appeals request that he reconsider. the prosecution, however Assistant firefighter, a 911 dispatcher, the Bravinder, told the courtroom that thought he was dead.” The Judge and the Jury Attorney General Matthew Frank— teenager who recorded the video of “when he arrived at the scene, he Despite all of this information, Judge Peter Cahill was head of Minnesota’s criminal Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck could tell from a distance that Floyd the trial is far from over. According appointed in 2007, had his own law division—has dealt with more of that went viral and sparked protests wasn’t breathing,” and that Floyd to NPR, the trial of Derek Chauvin practice, and worked for roughly the case. across the nation, and more. had “flatlined” in the ambulance on for the murder of George Floyd is 10 years in the Hennepin County The Trial On Thursday, April 1, the the way to the hospital, according expected to last about four weeks. Attorney’s Office. The trial began with opening jury heard from Floyd’s former to CNN. Nine of the jurors are women, statements and video footage of girlfriend, Courteney Ross. Ross Another paramedic, Derek while six are men. Nine jurors are Chauvin kneeling on Floyd’s neck. spoke about her relationship with Smith, testified that day as white, and six identify as black or Within the first three days of the Floyd, and the couples’ struggles well. When Smith was asked to multi-racial. This jury includes trial, 11 witnesses of Floyd’s death with opioid addiction. describe Floyd’s condition when alternates, and according to CBC, testified—many very emotionally. Later in the day, a paramedic he approached the scene, the State Senator Sonia Chang-Diaz is considering a run for Massachusetts Governor Sara Zakaria Chang-Diaz has stated that Maura Healey and Somerville Baker himself has not formally Baker’s third term as governor. News Writer the pandemic has shown Baker Mayor Joe Curtatone are possible announced his campaign for re- Chang-Diaz was a major “not to be the great manager that contenders for the governor race. election. If elected, this would be proponent of the Student he convinced Massachusetts he Opportunity Act of 2019, which was.” She said that Gov. Baker is aimed to reform school funding and prolonging the racial gaps of the implement $1.5 billion in resources pandemic by not implementing to Pre-K through 12 schools. She vaccination programs that would also helped create new policing benefit BIPOC communities. oversight and accountability laws Chang-Diaz urged for a vaccine after the death of George Floyd. equity director and a mobile Chang-Diaz has been a vaccine program to close the racial prominent critic of the vaccine disparities in vaccinations. rollout in the state. In February, A recent poll was conducted she compared the process of getting by UMass Amherst and WCVB on a vaccine appointment to a raffle, the race for governor. Out of the as “each incremental advantage 800 residents polled, 17 percent of buys you another ticket into the said they would vote for Chang- drawing.” Diaz in a matchup with Governor White residents have several Baker. The poll also showed a 52 advantages that aid in the process of percent approval rating for Baker, a getting a vaccine appointment, such drop from the 78 percent approval as life expectancy over 75, English rating in August. proficiency, digital literacy, job Other people who have flexibility, and car ownership. announced possible campaigns Chang-Diaz said that the rollout is for governor include Geoff Diehl, a “textbook case study of structural former Republican member of racism” as “Black, Latinx, and the Massachusetts House of lower-income Bay Staters—those Representatives, and Danielle who are the most likely to get Allen, a Harvard professor and infected with coronavirus—are Democratic candidate. Bob Massie, the least likely to have gotten a a Democrat who ran against Baker Photograph of Sonia Chang-Diaz. Courtesy of www.soniachangdiaz.com/ vaccine.” in 2018, said that Attorney General 4 News Sports 5 the Ever Given: The boat that became famous overnight Nadeen El-Ansari Contributing Writer Jonathan Hopkins This past weekend, the internet Sports Editor has blown up all about this boat beacon m that got stuck in the Suez Canal. Well, we’d like to shine a light on that boat that became famous overnight: the Ever Given cargo Catch up with our men m ship. Contact: On March 23, a cargo ship update and women in uniform that goes by the name Ever Given Massmedia.umb got stuck near the entrance of the Suez Canal. This cargo ship is 400 @gmail.com meters long, with a width of 59 We are now about a week away from the start of the spring sports season here at the University of Massachusetts Boston, and there is a lot of meters. It took up around a single excitement and anticipation going around. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, we haven’t been able to watch our spring sports teams compete in over EDITOR-IN-CHIEF lane in the canal, which equates to a year, and we haven’t seen them play a full season in two years. With that in mind, here are some expectations you should have for each of the spring almost 985 feet wide. sports teams here at UMass Boston. Grace Smith Why is this such a big deal? Because this incident incited a Container Ship ‘Ever Given’ stuck in the Suez Canal, Egypt. March 24th, 2021. Photo courtesy of Pierre Markuse on Managing Editor massive traffic jam. More than Wikimedia Commons Kaitlynn Castillo 360 ships, which carried essential in the Suez Canal is still under meme about it. “procrastination,” and the other commodities such as oil and investigation, there are two theories According to an article side of the Suez Canal was also Men’s Baseball durable goods like cars and grain, towards this situation. published by CBS, “The incident ... labeled “procrastination.” The PRODUCTION editor became stuck. This resulted in a The first theory was proposed has inspired a wealth of memes on water within the Canal was labeled In 2019, the UMass Boston men’s baseball team continued their dominant streak after winning their third straight Little East Conference championship Shanarah Bargan delay of shipments. by the owners of the cargo ship, social media.” one’s workflow, and the little in a row. In 2020, UMass Boston was poised to continue that success, but unfortunately the season was cut short, and the best they could do is go 3–1 In an article published by who claimed that the “high winds One meme led to another, yellow bulldozer represented one’s and end the season at that. USA Today, it states, “The AP said in a sandstorm pushed the ship which led to another, which led to ability to work through writing a to This year, it is expected that UMass Boston will continue to dominate within the conference and compete for another conference title. With the COPY EDITORS an analysis by data firm Refinitiv sideways, wedging it into both another, and eventually, the internet do list. showed an additional 300 ships banks of the waterway.” was flooded with memes about the The reason why these memes schedule being chock-full of teams within the conference, the Beacons will have a golden opportunity to remind everyone who runs the LEC this spring. ady harris-fried were en route to the canal over the The second theory comes cargo ship stuck in the Suez Canal became so famous is because of menaka ravikumar next two weeks. Some ships have from the chairman of Egypt’s instead of information about the how relatable they were to the already diverted to the African Suez Canal Authority, who didn’t incident and its progress. public. andrea kline route.” think that the bad weather is what Some of the memes include With all that being said, the In addition to this, the Suez resulted in the ship getting stuck. the famous photo of the cargo ship most recent update regarding the Women’s Softball News EDITOR Canal itself is a shipping link He then continued on to provide his being stuck sideways in the canal, Ever Given is that it is now unstuck. between the Mediterranean Sea and own theory, that it may have been and the little yellow bulldozer According to an article In their last full season in 2019, the UMass Boston women’s softball team had a solid season at 23–20, but unfortunately their season came to a Abigail Basile the Red Sea. This link is known to possible that the ship got stuck due trying to get it unstuck. This photo is published by CBS News, it was carry 10 percent to 12 percent of to “technical or human reasons.” accompanied by different captions announced by the Egyptian close in the LEC tournament. A season ago, the Beacons never even got started as the pandemic had already hit before their first regular season game. SPORTS EDITOR commercial shipping, as well as On to the final question: How like, “My COVID depression & government’s Suez Canal So, what does this mean for 2021? Jonathan Hopkins about 2.5 percent of the world’s oil. did the world react to this news? anxiety,” being written on the Authority that the Ever Given, It is safe to say that there are a lot of unknowns when it comes to the UMass Boston women’s softball team in 2021. However, in 2019 the Beacons The article provides its readers This question also explains why ship, and then “going on a daily “ha[d] been successfully re-floated. went 7–9 against LEC opponents. This season, the Beacons need to show that they can find more success against teams in their own conference, or else with a statement from a German the Ever Given became one of walk” written on top of the yellow This was the result of successful it could wind up being a long season. ARTS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR insurer who said, “Delays could the most famous boats overnight. bulldozer. push and tow maneuvers which led Fiona Broadie cost global trade $6 billion to $10 When people on the internet heard Another famous meme is an to the restoration of 80 percent of billion a week.” about the Suez Canal crisis, they illustration of the image described the vessel’s direction.” Health & Wellness EDITOR This brings us to the next decided to take matters into their above. Yet within the illustration, If you haven’t seen enough of question: How did this happen? own hands, and add light to a very the artist represented the ship as the Ever Given Memes, visit here. Men’s Lacrosse Mikayla Mackay Although the main reason behind serious topic—the first thing that an individual (“me”), one side how this cargo ship got stuck came to one’s mind is to make a of the Suez Canal was labeled In the Beacons’ last full season of lacrosse in 2019, UMass Boston had a less than impressive record, going 5–14. UMass Boston did manage to OPINIONS EDITOR make it to the semifinals in the LEC tournament in 2019, but lost to Plymouth State. In 2020, things were beginning to look up for the Beacons as they Matthew Reiad went unbeaten through their first four games before the pandemic hit. This spring, I now expect the UMass Boston men’s lacrosse team to build off of their 4–0 start in 2020 and put together a winning season. It is hard Iceland volcano erupts to base this season off of how well they were playing in 2020 because they hadn’t played any LEC teams a year ago, and this season, they will only be Photo Editor Genevieve Santilli Shield volcanoes are known playing teams within the LEC. However, the Beacons looked dominant against their competition back in 2020, and I expect them to come out strong Dom Ferreira News Writer for their fluid lava that runs off of them, and many of the largest in 2021. News Writers One of Iceland’s many volcanoes on the planet are shield volcanoes began erupting on March volcanoes. The Hawaiian shield Genna Santilli 19. The eruption caught a swarm volcanoes are among the most of media attention, and attracted famous, with Kilauea and Mauna UMass Boston spring sports teams will undoubtedly have their work cut out for them, as a lot of the teams they will be competing against early on Sara Zakaria crowds of tourists who hiked to Loa being the two most famous this season will have already had a few games under their belt. Preparation will be more important than ever if the Beacons hope to have a strong start watch lava rivers ooze from the ones in the state. this spring. Staying healthy will also be as important as ever because as it gets warmer, COVID-19 tends to spread a bit faster. So here is to a happy, Sports Writers volcano. In the weeks leading up to healthy, and hopefully successful spring sports season here at UMass Boston! The small island country of the volcano’s eruption, there were Josemanuel Cruz Iceland is filled with multiple a multitude of earthquakes in the Jack Sherman volcanoes that litter its entire region; more than 50,000 were landscape. About 130 volcanoes recorded. This is the largest number Arts & Lifestyle Writers in total are on the island, and about of earthquakes that have been 30 active volcanic systems lie recorded since the digital recording Photograph of a Volcano in Iceland from late 2014. Courtesy Bruce McAdam Katrina Sanville beneath the island. It is considered of earthquakes in the region began on Flickr. one of the countries with the most in 1991. Kyle Makkas volcanoes on the planet coming in 27 of the earthquakes recorded bright spot just south of Reykjavik. individuals who were seen in a fourth place, just under Indonesia near the site of the volcano were a Tourists who were willing to video on social media playing Photographers which has 139 volcanoes, and just magnitude of 4.0 or more. make the 2.2 mile hike traveled to volleyball near some lava flows. above Japan which has 112. Icelanders had been see the lava flows that were coming Other tourists have flown drones Delaney Hooper The volcano that began preparing for an eruption for from the volcano. According to over the site to capture images of Maya Martinez erupting in southern Iceland is weeks after experiencing the mass the BBC, scientists were filmed the eruption and lava flows coming the Geldingadalur volcano. It is of earthquakes they received, at the foot of the volcano cooking from the volcano. cONTRIBUTORS located in the southwest region of according to the BBC. sausages on the somewhat cooled Tourism websites have even the country, about 15 to 20 miles According to experts, the lava as they studied it. taken the opportunity to recommend Maria Hickson outside of the country’s capital of eruption is small, controlled and The site of the volcano was the best days to go hiking to see the Reykjavik. does not pose a great threat. More blocked off initially, but on March volcano. Their recommendation Benjamin Giunta According to the Reykjavik than 10.5 million cubic feet of lava 20, people were allowed to visit the is to go on days when the winds Nadeen El-Ansari Tourism website, the Geldingadalur have poured out from the eruption. site. As of Monday, March 22, the are blowing from the south, so it volcano has been dormant and has NASA and NOAA satellites area was closed off again due to pushes toxic volcanic gases to the not erupted in about 800 years. were both able to capture images of high levels of gas pollution coming north. STAFF ADVISOR Geldingadalur, a shield volcano, the eruption from space. The image from the volcano. Charles Henriques is part of the Krysuvik volcanic captured by the satellites shows While scientists were cooking system. the site of the eruption as another sausages, there were some 6 Sports Sports 7 The Bruins really blew the 2015 NHL Draft The Brooklyn Nets keep getting better Jack Sherman Anthony Cirelli, Forward Josemanuel Cruz most likely come off the bench. Sports Writer (198 GP, 49 G, 66 A) Sports Writer However, I doubt they would • (Hundred and thirty-fifth mind considering they accepted What if I told you that one of pick) Kirill Kaprizov, Have you ever heard the minimum deals to join the team. the biggest choke jobs in recent Forward (35 GP, 13 G, 17 saying, “The rich get richer, and Deandre Jordan will likely Boston sports was in the first round A) the poor get poorer?” Well, that still start just because of his of the 2015 NHL draft? Now let’s compare that to the is exactly what happened in the relationship with Kyrie and KD, Just a season after missing the Bruins first round picks: NBA last weekend. Seven-time along with Joe Harris, who at this playoffs in 2014-2015, the Boston • (Thirteenth pick) Jakub all-star LaMarcus Aldridge just point is a better player and fit than Bruins decided to stack up on first Zboril, Defenseman (31 GP, signed to the Brooklyn Nets to a the former all-stars. Regardless, it round picks. After accumulating 0 G, 7 A) minimum deal, officially giving is going to be hard for opposing three first round picks, the Bruins • (Fourteenth pick) Jake the Brooklyn Nets an all-star teams to contain all of the scoring looked focused on the future. Now, DeBrusk, Forward (224 GP, starting five. from the Nets. six years later let’s take a look at 65 G, 62 A) LaMarcus Aldridge was the Is that it? Are the Nets how the Bruins brutally swung and • (Fifteenth pick) Zach cornerstone of the Trailblazers now just going to stroll to the missed on the 2015 draft. Senyshyn, Forward (11 GP, and Spurs once upon a time. championship? With the thirteenth pick in 1 G, 2 A) Obviously, he is not in his prime. While yes, the Nets are my the draft, the Bruins selected As a Bruins fan, these stats The man is 35 and is not having a favorite to win it all, the season defenseman, Jakub Zboril. After six should sadden you. If the Bruins great season. However, this does isn’t a complete wash. The Los years, Zboril finally broke into the front office could have at least not mean he cannot contribute to Angeles Lakers signed Andre NHL as a top six defensemen for picked one of the players listed a championship team. This year, Drummond, giving NBA fans the Bruins. In 31 games this season, above, let alone picked three of he is averaging 14 points and hope of parity. I love this move Zboril has a total of seven points. them, the Bruins would have yet five rebounds. But what is scary for the Lakers: people love to hate Although he is slowly becoming an Zach Senyshyn in 2018. Photo courtesy of Angela Spagna on bruinsdaily.com another Stanley Cup title to their is that he has proven that he can on Drummond, but he is still one everyday player, chances are if the name in 2019. One of the biggest have a big game. He can still be of the best bigs in the league. He Bruins never lost Zdeno Chara and had three goals and four assists, and while posting just three points. • (Seventeenth pick) Kyle flaws the Bruins had when playing lethal from the mid-range and is a rebounding monster, and he Torey Krug in the offseason, Zboril unfortunately, he has been plagued Senyshyn has great size and speed, Connor, Forward (286 GP, the St. Louis Blues in the finals could take advantage of a lot of will get the Lakers tons of extra likely would either be sitting in the with injuries. Despite his struggles, but his overall talent is not where 122 G, 115 A) just two years ago was that they the smaller centers in the league. possessions, rebounding and AHL, or being discussed in trades I do believe that DeBrusk is a it should be for a mid-first round • (Eighteenth pick) Thomas could not muster much five-on-five He fits in well with the Nets’ scoring from the center position. right about now. valuable player, but I think that it pick, especially knowing who was Chabot, Defenseman (239 offense. Adding one or two of the style of play, which is to outscore I wasn’t a big fan of the Lakers Lamarcus Aldridge from 2017. Photo courtesy of Jose Garcia on Flickr. With the fourteenth pick might be best for the Bruins and for still on the draft boards. GP, 33 G, 107 A) players listed above would have absolutely everyone. losing Dwight Howard and JaVale in the draft, the Bruins selected DeBrusk if he were traded come the Now that we have reminded • (Twenty-third pick) Brock helped dramatically in that series. The Brooklyn Nets now have McGee during the off-season. Boston Celtics (you know, as vilified by many. When LeBron a video game. When it was just forward Jake DeBrusk. DeBrusk April 12 deadline. ourselves of who the Bruins Boeser, Forward (234 GP, Unfortunately, Bruins fans are left a combined total of 43 all-star Even though they got Marc Gasol a Celtics fan), I was relieved joined the Miami Heat, people KD and Kyrie (not to mention was probably the only respectable With the 15th pick in the draft, selected in the first round, let’s 91 G, 103 A) wondering what might have been as appearances on their team. With and Montrezl Harrell, they were when I heard Drummond went hated them; when KD joined their depth), it was enough to win pick by the B’s in the first round the Bruins selected forward, Zack take a look at the players the Bruins • (Twenty-fourth pick) Travis the 2015 draft will haunt the Bruins the addition of Blake Griffin and losing what I thought made them to the Lakers. The news about the Golden State Warriors, it all, and then they added James in 2015. However, since his rookie Senyshyn. When drafted, Senyshyn passed up on and how they have Konecny, Forward (328 GP, for years to come. LaMarcus Aldridge, they not special which was a dominant Drummond came a day after the they did the same. This is the Harden, and we thought that was season, DeBrusk’s production has was widely known as the biggest fared so far in their NHL careers. 90 G, 116 A) only have a superstar starting paint presence, and Drummond news about Aldridge, so it felt next team people will blame a lot. Now they hit us with two been on a steady decline to the reach in the entire 2015 draft, and This ought to be fun! • (Thirty-fifth pick) Sebastian lineup, but they have a very deep brings that back. like the Lakers were making a for “why they don’t watch the more former all-stars, and it feels point where now in his fourth NHL it is clear to see why that was. • (Sixteenth pick) Mathew Aho, Forward (345 GP, 136 roster. Despite being former all- As much as I had hoped counterattack at the Nets. NBA anymore.” The way this like overkill. season, he has been nearly invisible Since he was drafted, Senyshyn has Barzal, Forward (271 GP, G, 160 A) stars, Griffin and Aldridge will Drummond would go to the This team is going to be team was constructed feels like when he plays. In 21 games, he has played in a total of 11 NHL games, 72 G, 168 A) • (Seventy-second pick) Danny’s deadline deals: What does it all mean for the Boston Celtics? Can Fernando Tatis Jr. make baseball cool again? Jack Sherman game. Even a trip to the ballpark big-league career and has the in shallow right field. But Tatis’s cover star on this year’s edition Nicholas Gilbertson larger roles on offense, and in turn, the Sports Writer has lost its appeal for a lot of awesome distinction of being the actual on-field exploits cannot be of MLB The Show. He seems Contributing Writer offense has become entirely too predictable people. Attendance peaked at a only player in major’s history to seen as childlike fun. His abilities to be recapturing interest of fans First things first, Celtics fans: Any title and stagnant. Their individual scoring Over the holidays, I was record of almost 80 million fans hit two grand slams in the same could be compared to a created across America who used to love aspirations you have held this year are sadly numbers have both seen an increase, but the watching an NBA game on in 2007, and it’s been falling inning. Fernando Jr. would follow player in a video game: He can hit baseball but drifted away for misguided. The Boston Celtics were never Celtics as a team have posted a measly 23–25 national TV, when a commercial steadily ever since. in his father’s footsteps, being for power, fly around the bases, various reasons. Tatis may not be going to the finals before the deadline, and record. caught my eye. It was an ad for Another big problem is signed as an amateur free agent by fire bullets from short, and covers the “best” player in baseball, at they still are not going to the finals after Ainge’s other deadline move sent center the Gatorade-affiliated energy baseball’s lack of household- the Chicago White Sox out of his a whole swath of territory on the least not yet. But it would be in a couple of moves at the deadline. The Daniel Theis to Chicago in exchange for drink Bolt24. The drink isn’t name stars, at least to the native Dominican Republic. Tatis left side of the infield with almost the sport’s best interest for him to expectation that Celtics general manager, big man Moe Wagner. While the Celtics what caught my eye, but the average fan. The NFL and NBA was then traded by the White Sox no effort. be the face of baseball for years Danny Ainge, was somehow going to turn did not exactly secure great value for Theis, man they had promoting it: a are so popular that even a state to San Diego for veteran starter Speaking of video games, to come. the team into a contender with a series of in- a move had to be made in order to remain Major League Baseball player. It like Wisconsin, far away from James Shields, a move I’m sure Tatis just happens to be the season moves was unfeasible. The roster has under the salary cap after acquiring Fournier. caught my eye because I honestly America’s coastal media hubs, that the Southsiders have since sorely lacked depth, and Eastern Conference Wagner has posted 6.8 points per game, couldn’t tell you the last time can produce household-name come to regret. foes like the Philadelphia 76ers and the while snagging 2.9 rebounds a game this I saw a professional baseball megastars like Green Bay Packers Tatis rocketed through the Brooklyn Nets simply outclass the Celtics in season. Since Wagner is a clear downgrade player trying to sell any kind of quarterback Aaron Rodgers Padres’ farm system, making terms of talent. from Theis, expect center Robert Williams to product on national TV. And the or Milwaukee Bucks forward his big-league debut in 2019. Now that we have established reality for receive a significant increase in minutes as a man trying to sell me that energy Giannis Antetokounmpo, well Since then, he has become one all my fellow “green teamers” (I know it’s result of the trade. James Stewart, of 98.5’s drink (that I had no interest in known to people who have never of baseball’s premier attractions unpleasant, but attainable expectations are “The Sports Hub,” has also linked the Celtics buying) might just be the linchpin even seen them play. How many in a sport that desperately needs necessary), we can look more objectively at to free-agent big man Demarcus Cousins, in baseball’s efforts to regain its people are watching Milwaukee some. Tatis only played 84 games the Celtics’ deadline deals. In no way am I who could fill the newfound void in the toehold in American culture that Brewers games to get a sneak in his rookie season in 2019; the attempting to let the Celtics off of the hook Celtics front court nicely. has been loosening for years: San peek at their superstar outfielder, 2020 season was shortened to here for their putrid play because, clearly, While the moves do not quite put the Diego Padres phenom Fernando Christian Yelich? Probably not 60 games due to the COVID-19 they have not lived up to their roster potential, Celtics into title contention, they certainly Tatis Jr. that many. That’s not to say that’s pandemic. In that time span, Tatis but some of us fans expected too much from add the wing depth and the reliable fourth I don’t need to tell you that Yelich’s fault; baseball does do a has played 143 games, almost a the get-go. scoring option the Celtics need in order to baseball is in pretty bad shape as pretty terrible job of marketing its full regular season. Of the course The first shoe to drop was on the day become competitive down the stretch. The I type this. Ratings for the World stars. But that may be due to the of those games, he has hit .301, of the deadline, with the news that Boston Celtics currently sit in eighth place amongst Series have been consistently fact that many of their stars are with 39 home runs, 98 runs batted had traded for Orlando Magic guard Evan their Eastern Conference foes, and if the on the downswing for the past just, well, boring and dull. Los in, 27 stolen bases, 111 runs Fournier. With a small price tag of two playoffs began tomorrow, they would be several years. Last year’s World Angeles Angels outfielder Mike scored, and a .956 OPS (on-base second round draft picks, the C’s acquired a the last team in. Somehow, the C’s are only Series between the Los Angeles Trout, arguably the best player plus slugging). Those are MVP- dependable and consistent addition to their two games behind the fourth place Charlotte Dodgers and the Tampa Bay since Willie Mays, is just kind of caliber numbers. And he’s just rotation at great value. Fournier is posting Hornets. It is within reason for the green team Rays was the lowest viewed “meh” as a person. He shows up, getting started. career numbers this year, averaging 19.7 to leapfrog over the Atlanta Hawks, New since Nielsen began tracking does his job, and that’s about it. Watching Tatis play is like points a game, while shooting 46 percent York Knicks, Miami Heat, and Charlotte the event. Baseball, which once Same goes for New York Mets going back in time, not just from the field and 38.8 percent from three. Hornets, so long as they get hot down the dominated American culture ace Jacob deGrom, who might be to baseball’s past but his own The acquisition aims to alleviate the stretch. Dependent upon final seeding, the like the unmistakable soundtrack the most dominant starter since childhood in the barrios of San load of burden on young stars Jaylen Brown Celtics can still put together an entertaining to a classic movie, is now but Pedro Martinez, but has about Pedro de Macoris. He’ll slide and Jayson Tatum. Brown and Tatum have playoff run that could go deep into the second a whisper in an increasingly 1/10 of Pedro’s fire and zeal for into first to beat out the throw on had difficulty accumulating wins without the or even a third, but the clock is ticking. crowded sports and media the game. an infield grounder. He’ll try to assistance of bona fide wing scorer Gordon landscape. I would guess most of That brings us to Tatis. The score from first on a seeing-eye Hayward this season. As Hayward inked a my fellow Generation Zers who 22-year-old Padres prodigy is no single up the middle. He might large deal with Charlotte in the offseason, read this paper neither watch, nor stranger to baseball: His father, even tag up and try to score on a Evan Fournier #10 Orlando Magics, Capital One Arena, Fernando Tatis Jr. in 2019. Photo courtesy of Keith Allison on WikiMedia Brown and Tatum were forced to assume Wizards v. Magics. Photo Courtesy of Mogami Kariya on Wikimedia Commons. follow, nor really care about the Fernando Sr., had a decent popup just beyond second base Commons. 8 Health & Wellness Arts & Lifestyle 9 Staying healthy in summer 2021 Top 40 in the U.S., broken down Mikayla Mackay There may be some leniency I can’t even count how many Fiona Broadie are all sung by popular singers. your ears. It’s better than most States, what other factors are Beyond familiarity and lyric Health & Wellness Editor for those who have gotten fully people who would faint outside Arts & Lifestyle Editor Right now, Justin Bieber, Cardi music you’ve ever heard. Then, there? To determine this, we memorability, other popularity vaccinated, but wearing a mask from not drinking enough water The phrase “Top 40” B, and Bruno Mars are in the top the song ends, and another must look again at what the factors seem to be harder to pin The weather’s changing, and socially distancing is still and getting heat stroke. Bringing is usually said with a sneer three. Does this mean that those begins. This time, it’s a song by current most popular songs down. Genre ranges, and there is and Bostonians and tourists alike needed out in public. a water bottle with you wherever nowadays. If you listen to Top three artists or their songs are the your favorite singer, and you have in common. The songs no one genre that monopolizes are coming out to enjoy these As you start or even finish you go this summer is important 40 music, you will be insulted greatest or most beautiful music know it all by heart. This song is “Driver’s License” by Olivia Top 40 music. However, beautiful spring days. Many have planning your summer getaways and can help you stay hydrated! or looked down on by those who produced in the United States your anthem, it’s on your “drive Rodrigo, “Blinding Lights” by rap and pop are obviously been desperately anticipating and outings, make sure to Lastly, make sure to wear listen to less popular music. The right now? Unquestionably, the to work” playlist, and in your The Weeknd, and “Good Days” disproportionately represented. this warmer weather. And a consider yours and others’ SPF when going outside. SPF is idea that being different makes answer is no. So perhaps the mind, you sing it like a star. So by SZA have all been in the Top Next time you play music in lot have been dreaming about healths and safety. very much neglected. People fail you “cool” has not been swayed majority of Americans do not for this song, you thump the car 40 for what feels like forever. the car, I dare you to leave your reaching the summer: Arguably, If you are doing your part, to realize just how much the sun from the public mindset in the listen to music for its beauty, but and loudly sing along, annoying Of course, these three songs are comfort zone. Whether you listen it is a new era for us. Following you should be good for the can damage your skin, especially last fifty years. However, music rather for recognition’s sake. your friend but having so much all performed by popular artists. to Top 40 music or some indie a hard summer back in 2020 upcoming season. Other than over time. It can cause wrinkles, is popular for a reason, right? Picture this: You’re in fun. So which song did you enjoy They also all have memorable band that no one has heard of, as we dealt with the pandemic being cautious, there are some sun spots, discoloration, etc. I To find answers to this question, your friend’s car, jamming out more? The beautiful one, or the lines and choruses. Memorability expanding your range is never and other social and political other basic things that you can would highly recommend finding we must look no farther than the to music like you usually do. one you already knew by heart? (in other words, easily a bad thing. An open mind will uproars, summer 2021 is looking do in order to keep yourself as a moisturizer that also contains most popular songs in the United Your friend plays a song you If the top charts in the United memorized choruses) seems to be open the door to some great positive—just what everybody happy and healthy as possible SPF. One of my favorites is States right now, and break them have never heard before, and States are anything to go by (and a big factor in song popularity. music you would have never has been needing. this summer. CeraVe’s AM facial moisturizing down to the best of our ability. it is strikingly brilliant music. they are), the answer is the latter. If you can memorize a song, you experienced otherwise! Although the pandemic is First, I would recommend lotion. It works wonders and The glaringly noticeable You enjoy it, though you don’t So if familiarity is one big can sing it better, which makes nowhere near over, we have getting as much sleep as your won’t break the bank. Finding thing about the most popular know the words of the beat, for factor in what makes certain the whole experience more made quite a bit of progress. body needs. With hours and a moisturizer with SPF would songs in the U.S. is that they the quality of the music delights songs more popular in the United enjoyable. The vaccines have been—for routines adjusting, you may find kill two birds with one stone for the most part—positively yourself lacking when it comes you. Protecting and moisturizing embraced by the general public, to your slumber. But sleep is so your skin this summer will make with thousands already being important when it comes to our a world of difference, and your vaccinated and more waiting health and moods. Making some skin will thank you for it later! patiently for their opportunity. changes to your night routine All in all, although these These vaccines are could help you fall asleep faster are basic recommendations, they constantly being observed and and quicker, providing you a are important to keep in mind studied as the RNA process of better night’s rest. as the weather gets warmer and the Pfizer vaccine is new to the Furthermore, make sure to you find yourself out more often. vaccination world. However, stay hydrated! This one may With how exciting the season can there are still uncertainties when seem self explanatory. However, be, sometimes these basics can it comes to the effectiveness of a lot of people actually fail to go right over one’s head. If you these vaccines and the duration drink the right amount of water are being mindful of your body, of the immunity. daily for their bodies. When you then this summer should be the With this being said, it is add in soaring temperatures, best one yet! critical for everyone to still it can result in a horrible mix. The inlet gives way to summer with a view of the John F. Kennedy Library. be following CDC guidelines. I used to work at a resort, and Photo by Maya Martinez / Mass Media Staff. Gua sha and its benefits The Spotify “Top 40” playlist lists the top 40 songs in rank of popularity across the nation as of this week. Screenshot by Maya Martinez / Mass Media Staff. Mikayla Mackay a massage tool to improve your or serums to reduce friction and helped me with has been tension these, then gua sha might be a Health & Wellness Editor circulation” (1). It is an ancient to also massage these products in my sinuses and head. If I have good addition to your routine. Stand up comedy: Harder than it looks I always seem to find the Chinese healing technique deeply into your skin and pores. any pressure in my sinuses, I Of course, I am not an expert neatest stuff on social media, that has been passed on by When I had first started like to run my gua sha tool along in gua sha and would recommend Fiona Broadie especially when it comes to generations. incorporating gua sha into my my cheeks and forehead, lifting researching on your own before Arts & Lifestyle Editor a well-known term for it: takes years of bombing to make for a bigger audience. Davidson, and “Growing” by beauty and self-care. My routine To perform gua sha, you will beauty care routine, I fell in love. upward towards the end. I have starting. I was able to learn a “bombing.” This term is used in progress as a stand-up comedian, The pandemic has all but Amy Schumer. Donald Glover has evolved, surprisingly thanks need a crystal tool. It is typically I began using my gua sha tool been able to relieve tension this lot about the deep history of I have long been a fan of multiple variations, including but and only a few comedians eliminated the world of stand- I would recommend if you like to TikTok and the many videos a narrowed tool with two divots every morning and night with way which has truly changed gua sha and tried to learn from stand-up comedy. Some find not limited to: “I totally bombed ever enter the mainstream of up. Though I suppose virtual “gross” humor, Pete Davidson I that people have posted, sharing at the end of it. It fits perfectly one of my favorite serums. At my life. I always struggled with technicians online through blogs it boring and grow restless in last night,” “I bombed the stage,” people’s attention. Some of stand-up is possible, it would would recommend for “snarky, their favorite home remedies and into the palm of your hand and first I was skeptical, however migraines and sinus infections and videos. front of the television, but I “I kept bombing all week.” All of the more popular comedians, not be the same. Stand-up is sarcastic” humor, and Amy tools. I always like to try new the divots are used against your after a few tries, I could tell it so this tool has been amazing to These types of resources are find it fascinating, and here’s these variations indicate the same including Schumer and Notaro, about laughing with strangers, Schumer’s recent special for things and learn more when it jaw and neck. These bumps help was helping drain a lot of tension diminish these. free online and can help you in my secret: I usually don’t even thing: stand-up failure. And yet, have repeatedly stressed how the fear and bravery of the stage, pregnancy jokes and physical comes to taking care of my body. drain fluid as it is pushed and and liquids out of my face, jaw, Like I said before, I was starting gua sha. It is important laugh! Most of the time, when there is no failure in stand-up, important it is to be totally physical humor, dim lights and humor. Of course, there is a And one of my most favorite dragged. and neck. skeptical of how well this would to make sure you are performing I am watching stand-up, I am because failing means learning. obsessed with stand-up—even drinks. I and many others are whole world of comedians additions to my routine as of When you are getting gua It has been around a month work for me, so I am impressed gua sha correctly, as you don’t alone with my laptop, totally In other words, while you fail to addicted—in order to become hoping for its swift return. Until I have not mentioned in this lately has been the use of gua sha done by a technician, they now and my face is rejuvenated. by the results. want to incorrectly tug and pull stone-faced, yet immensely make your audience guffaw, you really good at it. You must go then, there are many stand-up article. I encourage you to find sha. will “scrape your skin with short It is smoother and tighter. Just I would highly recommend at your skin. When it is done enjoying myself. Here’s the thing learn what does not work, which to the stage again and again, specials on Netflix on which your favorite, and then you will What is gua sha? According or long strokes to stimulate from looking at pictures before gua sha to help tighten your skin, correctly, gua sha will greatly about stand-up—it is incredibly brings you one step closer to and grow tough skin that can you can feast your attention. be able to enjoy watching their to Healthline, gua sha is “a microcirculation of the soft and after, I can tell my face isn’t reduce neck pain, and relieve improve your skin and health and difficult. I have read the books understanding what does get the withstand even the most cringe- Honorable mentions include: stand-up develop through the natural, alternative therapy that tissue, which increases blood as puffy as it used to be. tension in your face. If you find can be enjoyed in your beauty and watched the interviews of giggles. worthy of stage-bombings. Then, “Weirdo” by Donald Glover, years. Pass the popcorn! involves scraping your skin with flow” (1). They typically use oils Another thing gua sha has yourself struggling with any of routine. some of the greats, including As we have established, it and only then, will you be ready “Alive From New York” by Pete Amy Schumer, John Mulaney, Chris Rock, Tig Notaro, and even Ellen Degeneres. What I have learned is that one 15-minute stand-up routine can take years to develop. An hour? That’s a lifetime of work. Stand-up comedians must practice often, and for years, before they are “any good.” Of course, some of us are more naturally in tune with comedy than others, but it still takes a sharp learning curve to one day effortlessly send a room full of people into peals of helpless laughter. Not only must stand-up comedians practice often, but they must practice in a harshly unforgiving environment: The stage, in front of (usually drunk and judgemental) people, for five to 15 minute intervals. Totally failing to make an audience laugh is such a common occurrence that there is even Facial massage roller. Photo courtesy of Marco Verch on Flickr. Stand up comedian performing on a stage. Illustration by Delaney Hooper / Mass Media Staff. 10 Arts & Lifestyle Opinion 11 Disney Channel’s downfall: Bop to flop? How to choose a college major: A student’s perspective Katrina Sanville Prospector write: than stellar reviews, and the “That’s So FoxBusiness, Disney’s once stellar Aanchal Kumar studies in university. Biology, Chemistry, or Physics as to take. Take classes from different a passion for creativity, you might Arts Writer “They [Modern Disney Channel Raven” reboot “Raven’s Home” filled the numbers of viewers are rapidly dropping Contributing Writer From my own experience, their major field of study. However, subjects and see which ones you want to consider a major in Fine Ask any person who grew up shows] lack what most shows of our middle ground between this remake and as time goes on, and it’s not appearing to I initially applied to university it’s important to note that social like the most! Ask yourself what Art. watching Disney Channel in the late ‘90s time exceeded in: Quality, values, and the acclaimed “Boy Meets World” reboot get any better. Due to a lack of hit shows Each year, millions of college as a Psychology major, quickly science majors such as Psychology you’re good at. In fact, UMass Boston offers a and early 2000s, and they’ll say that the good storytelling. They gave examples “Girl Meets World,” these new versions in recent years, Disney Channel has lost students across the globe graduate changing my gears to Management are just as likely to get accepted Identify your strengths and BA in Art, which may be of interest channel’s movies and shows have gotten of the values we as kids (and people in of fan-favorites pull in older audiences to close to four million viewers.” with different majors of study. shortly after committing to UMass into medical school. I would weaknesses. It’s probably not a to you. Do you enjoy reading and much worse since they stopped watching. general) should have, while also getting see what had been done with their favorite This isn’t to say that Disney Channel From the STEM field of Biology Boston. Primarily, after meticulous recommend exploring through great idea to pick a major that writing? You may be interested This might be true, but there is always us excited to watch with their unique and characters, or at least to poke fun at what hasn’t made any hit shows in recent years, to the social science Anthropology, research on the job outlook for the courses that are being offered would be hard for you to complete in obtaining a well-rounded the more unsettling option: The people entertaining storylines.” had been done. More recently, and even though. “Andi Mack,” which premiered in universities offer a wide range of Psychology graduates, I found within different subjects or areas of requirements for. Perhaps, avoid liberal arts degree with a focus on who grew up watching shows like “Lizzie 2017 and ended in 2019, made history for majors to choose from. However, myself jumping back and forth study in your university; find what subjects you have low grades in important skills such as critical McGuire” and “Hannah Montana” may featuring the first gay main character in a with such a multitude of options, from Management and Psychology. interests you based on the course as this may result in a struggle to thinking and communication, have simply aged out of the humor and Disney Channel show, as well as showing it can be extraordinarily difficult I realized that Management truly description. Generally, colleges graduate. Do your research. Make rather than studying STEM. It can entertainment factor of Disney Channel. the character’s coming out and pushing to decide which one is the best for represented my intense passion for also offer to advise programs for sure to check out the employment be overwhelming to pick a major Disney Channel reached its peak boundaries in the “perfect Disney Channel your career path. The first thing to problem-solving. However, I chose pre-med and pre-law students. I rates and average income for from all the different options popularity in the early 2000s, between the family” image by centering the first remember is that you can always to pursue a minor in Psychology as would highly encourage you to graduates in your major of interest. that you may have. But there’s years of 2002 and 2007. During this time, season’s plot around the main character change your major. Recent studies my secondary focus of study due to check them out. Consider what Narrow your search down to two or a major for everyone. My best shows like “Kim Possible,” “That’s So discovering the woman she presumed to indicate that roughly fifty percent my interest in understanding human professions you see yourself doing three majors. Think about why you advice to students out there who Raven,” “The Proud Family,” “The Suite be her older sister was actually her birth of the students that apply to college behavior and the mind. Currently, in the future. If you can’t narrow want to major in a specific field. are undecided would be to choose Life of Zack and Cody,” and “Wizards of mother that gave birth to her as a teenager. are “undecided,” or unsure about I’m pursuing a Bachelor of Science down your interests to one major, If you don’t have good reasoning a major you love, regardless of the Waverly Place,” as well as movies such However, besides the few outliers, their future careers. As a result, in Management with a minor in you can absolutely double major for why you chose your major, job outlook or salary. as the “High School Musical” trilogy, Comparison of Disney logos throughout time. Uploaded for commentary. All copyright of Disney. such as “Andi Mack”, and the “Jessie” the majority of students will end Psychology. and expand your opportunities! chances are you might not be fit for References “Cadet Kelly,” and “The Cheetah Girls” spinoff “Bunk’d” (though Bunk’d has lost up changing their major at least More often than not, students Check out the different class it. Consider your hobbies. What is (1) College Board enthralled the preteens and youth of the However, nostalgia can often make more successfully, the “High School nearly all of its original cast and continues once, if not multiple times, as their in the pre-med track tend to choose requirements for majors and see something you enjoy doing? If you (2) Princeton Review time. older generations blind to the flaws in Musical” spin off “High School Musical: to air with a new cast of characters) which interests evolve throughout their biological sciences including which ones you would be willing enjoy painting, drawing, and have (3) StudyBreaks.com For many, this had been regarded as their childhood shows. Though these The Musical: The Series” for Disney+ has been on since 2015, Disney Channel the “best” age of Disney Channel, with the shows may seem funny when looking drew in both old fans of the original has lost its prestige. The shows and stars few years following being included in this back, upon a rewatch, the first episodes trilogy banking on nostalgia, as well new, of today are no longer household names, Golden Age for the early 2000s kids who and seasons can seem stiff and the younger fans. As Rick Bentley for The and kids no longer gravitate towards the Yes, MASSPIRG is partisan grew up on additional shows like “Good actors—many of whom had gotten their Bulletin writes: television after school in order to watch Matthew Reiad tuition bills. Although some of serves as a manual for students $9 waivable fee. MASSPIRG has our right to fully participate in Luck Charlie” and “Austin and Ally,” big break from these Disney shows—were “There’s already enough nostalgic their favorite shows for hours on end. Opinions Editor MASSPIRG’s goals and actions are who seek to aggressively organize a strong presence on campus, and democracy. MASSPIRG is a and movies such as “Teen Beach Movie” still learning how to act on camera. The draw [in reboots] to make sure there will Whether Disney Channel meant a Despite what they’d have you nonpartisan, the basic principles on campus and canvass in support they have professional staff that huge organization with hundreds and the “Descendants” trilogy. These jokes themselves are dated and cheesy be an initial audience for the project. The childhood of shows from the “Golden believe, MASSPIRG is a politically that the organization is based on are of radical—traditionally left- teach students to aggressively of students in support, and when movies and shows seem untouchable (such as the Angry Birds line and Justin key is finding the rhythms to keep the Age” of the channel, or growing up motivated organization with clear partisan by their very nature, and wing—environmental, business- recruit students on campus. Their posed with a referendum question and the standard for all Disney Channel Bieber photo at the end of “Teen Beach young target audience happy.” with the newer shows, the channel partisan intentions. While some of throughout this article, I intend to related and social policies.” (1) organization should be welcomed to defund their organization, they productions, especially in comparison to Movie”) that leave re-watchers cringing But all this being said, the older has impacted millions of children’s their actions may seem nonpartisan, show why. Although MASSPIRG may claim on campus, but should be treated got the support of several prominent the shows that air on the channel today. instead of laughing. As Kirby Harris from generations may be correct in saying childhoods. Though nostalgia can cloud their core philosophy falls directly By no means am I the to be nonpartisan, their progressive like any other partisan organization current and former student leaders Since then, this generation that The Queen’s Journal said: Disney Channel has been losing viewers the reality with fond memories, it’s clear in line with progressive political first person to suggest that policies, such as green energy and such as College Democrats and to sign a complaint asking for this grew up on this “Golden Age” of Disney “In the earlier seasons of ‘Hannah and interest. While some might just be Disney Channel isn’t what it used to be. policies. While any organization MASSPIRG is a blatantly partisan increasing government spending to College Republicans. question to be removed. Put simply, Channel has grown up and moved onto Montana’ and ‘Wizards of Waverly nostalgic and cynical towards the newer No matter the factors at hand, this change has the right to be partisan, organization. In 2019, Andrew J. fix economic issues, fall directly On MASSPIRG’s own any attempt to have the student more mature television and film, but the Place’, the young actors had yet to come content presented to them, the rise in has definitely impacted the childhoods MASSPIRG’s false disguise gives Sciascia, an editor for the UMass in line with progressive political website, they claim that body not vote on this referendum company still remains. To them, the new into their own. The jokes were stale, streaming services and on-demand, of today’s youth. While it is surely a them special treatment from the Lowell Student Newspaper, The policies in this country. “MASSPIRG stands up to powerful question is undemocratic and is not Disney Channel seems unwatchable, relying on bad puns and situational perfectly catered, endless content like stretch to say Disney had completely university’s administration and Connector, wrote an article titled, MASSPIRG is a huge interests whenever they threaten in the best interests of the student crude, and downright tacky at times. humour. The nostalgia factor wasn’t YouTube has pulled younger generations gone downhill since the age of “Lizzie allows them to continue to grow “Op-Ed: MassPIRG is a partisan organization with support from our health, our financial security, or body. Unfortunately, MASSPIRG Even slightly younger kids, who got the enough to keep me from constantly away from the cable box and towards their McGuire” and “Hannah Montana,” Disney their organization. scam, and we should vote to defund across the state. In fact, MASSPIRG our right to fully participate in our has the support and backing of tail-end of this success and spent their cringing.” laptops, iPads, and phones. As a result, Channel hasn’t made a show quite like Although I believe that them.” In his article, he writes, “The actually has an office in downtown democracy.” (2) Ironically enough, plenty of current and former student Disney Channel years watching “Best Nostalgia not only feeds into making traditional television networks have been these hits in a while, and based on their MASSPIRG is partisan, I fully PIRG model finds its roots in a Boston (2). Additionally, according although MASSPIRG claims to leaders, while the student body is Friends Whenever” and “Adventures in the decent seem good, and the good seem impacted by this shift. As Skylon Thomas numbers, a hit like that won’t come any support their presence on our 1971 book written by Ralph Nader to MASSPIRG’s own budget, they stand up to powerful interests, when left to foot their $9 waivable fee. It Babysitting,” agree that there has been great, but making reboots and remakes of and Dane Durrant of The Prospector time soon. campus. However, I take issue and David K Ross entitled ‘Action spend 75 percent on professional a referendum question was posed to seems that in this situation, they are a shift in the recent years. As Skylon the most popular shows. Though the “Kim write: with their special privileges, for a Change: A Student’s Guide staff to help run the organization. An decrease their fee, rather than fight the powerful interests. Thomas and Dane Durrant of The Possible” live action remake saw less “According to Joe Flint of such as working closely with for Public Interest Organizing.’ organization that has professional against it, they chose to attempt to the Undergraduate Student ‘Action for a Change’ covers the staff and an office in one of the remove the question completely Government and having a special creation of the nation’s first PIRGs most expensive real estate locations from the ballot. So much for “Godzilla vs. Kong”: Box office results and what waivable fee on the student in Minnesota and Oregon and in the world does not need your standing up to interests that threaten they might tell us about this summer’s movies Why MASSPIRG should be treated like any other Kyle Makkas public health, more and more universes allow for people to progresses in the coming months, theaters seem to be heading Arts Writer theaters are beginning to reopen. get invested in these characters but if we truly can trust the for a comeback of sorts this If circumstances were just Additionally, with sunny weather in previous movies. People will light we see at the end of the year. Soon, we may all be able student organization a little bit different, it would around the corner, people will be more willing to shell out the tunnel, then soon we can all go to safely see Godzilla breathe Matthew Reiad probably be odd for “Godzilla vs. undoubtedly be crowding into cash to go to a movie if they back to normal. The way things nuclear fire on the big screen. signatures when they do those funds to different universities people. MASSPIRG is partisan other campus organization. Their Opinions Editor Kong” to be anything other than cinemas once more. are genuinely concerned about are looking right now, movie What could be better than that? petition drives. An organization based on need, student population, as seen through my other article aggressive recruitment, as well as an average action movie. It’s just “Godzilla vs. Kong” is what happens before going in. with such a vast student support support for MASSPIRG on that discussing MASSPIRG. Their their connections to student leaders two giant monsters brawling for expected to make more than 20 While by no means as popular as UMass Boston is home to body, as well as external aid campus, etc. status as a partisan organization and the Undergraduate Student two hours—how could anything million dollars this upcoming Marvel’s, this cinematic universe lots of student-led organizations. from the MASSPIRG central By having an external could be a strong reason why Government, give it an unfair and about that be important? weekend. While that number has had enough successful Starting one is super easy, just fill organization, does not need your $9 parent organization, MASSPIRG they can maintain their strong illogical advantage over other However, this summer movie would be considered low under installments to suggest that out a form and get some of your waivable fee and should be treated should be treated like any other status on the campus. However, student-run organizations that may season is a little different than normal circumstances, it is a people want to see the story friends to sign onto it. After the like any other student organization. organization that gets funding from they should just be treated like also do work that claims to benefit usual. Last year’s summer movie considerably large profit during continued. This installment can form gets processed, there you have Many on-campus student an external parental organization. any other organization. There are the student body. MASSPIRG has season was practically non- the pandemic. be considered the culmination of it, a student organization, and you organizations such as political Additionally, the funding that many organizations that have noble a right to exist on campus, but we existent, as the pandemic forced So, King Kong and Godzilla the previous Warner Brothers’ can immediately begin asking for and religious organizations MASSPIRG gets from the waivable causes and fight for economic, must push to ensure that they are theaters to shut down and studios seem to be making just as much monster movies. So, why funding from the Undergraduate receive funding from their fee goes to paying staff and racial and social justice. However, treated equally with other student to postpone their upcoming of an economic impact in the wouldn’t a fan of “Kong: Skull Student Government. However, parent organizations to help with lobbyists. Unlike what MASSPIRG these organizations do not have organizations, because that is the releases. However, this year real world as they probably will Island” or “Godzilla” want to one particular student organization recruitment and to have events. has you believe, their fee does a special fee on the student most equitable for other student may turn out different. With a destructive one on film. It is see it? is different. MASSPIRG has been Other student organizations, such not go to directly help students. It tuition bill. It is about time that organizations on campus. vaccinations ramping up, things impossible to know whether this Last, and most importantly, on our campus for the past several as on-campus clubs without parent goes to hiring lobbyists that spend MASSPIRG is treated like any are looking much brighter for the would’ve been the case a little it’s the kind of movie that’s decades and has a strong and loud organizations, receive funding from their hours talking to politicians industry. over a year ago, but there are a made to be seen on a big screen. presence on campus. MASSPIRG SEOC. According to MASSPIRG’s and pushing for unrealistic policy Amidst all of this, “Godzilla few reasons behind this success. I don’t just want to watch has a very strong presence on official website, “Students pool expectations such as 100 percent vs. Kong” smashes into theaters One, the movie was just made Godzilla push a building onto campus with a very aggressive their resources together statewide renewable energy within this this week. Vaccination rates in to be fun. Having spent over a King Kong, I want to experience recruitment method. They do with other MASSPIRG chapters decade. this country are at an unexpected year indoors, people are dying to it. Any movie about two giant presentations in front of classes and to hire staff, such as advocates, I have no problem with high, possibly encouraging go out and forget their troubles. monsters extensively fighting pass around paper flyers describing lobbyists, and organizers, to work MASSPIRG having a strong many moviegoers to go to the Don’t expect many indie movies is probably best seen on a big their policy initiatives (while paper with students on issues that they presence on campus. I think their theater. While this does not and arthouse films to be among screen—and moviegoers know flyers that aren’t very good for the care about.” (1) By pooling the intentions could be good. However, mean that the health risk of the most profitable films of the that! Sure, they could watch it on environment). They have students funding that they get from the their extremely aggressive COVID-19 has gone away, many year. HBO MAX, but that’s not what walk around campus to collect waivable fee, MASSPIRG has recruitment policies, and their states are lowering restrictions. Second, it’s part of a they want. Promotional poster for the film. Uploaded for commentary and review. signatures for certain petitions, and an external parent organization extremely pushy methods, can Whether or not this is good for cinematic universe. Cinematic We’ll see how the pandemic Courtesy of IMDb. get hundreds of hundreds of student responsible for allocating these be seen as intimidating by many Undocuweek Presents:

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