Vol. 54 iSSUE 29 www.umassmedia.com the massUMass Boston’s independentmedia student newspaper May 10, 2021 Vigil and rally held for 16-year old Mikayla Miller as community searches for answers regarding her death By Abigail Basile News Editor

On Thursday, May 6, a vigil was held for 16-year-old Mikayla Miller, a Black, LGBTQIA+ identifying girl from Hopkinton, Massachusetts. The vigil also served as a rally for those who believe not enough investigation has been conducted regarding Miller’s cause of death. Hundreds of supporters showed up to the Hopkinton Town Green, right by the Boston Marathon starting line. Supporters held signs reading “Justice for Mikayla,” and many brought flowers. Mikayla Miller’s mother, Calvina Strothers, gave an emotional speech to the crowd at the rally. She said she and her daughter were “two peas in a pod,” and criticized the lack of transparency from the Middlesex County District Attorney Marian Ryan. “Due to the lack of urgency for some, I’ve had to not only be the grieving mother, but also put pressure on the DA, Marian Ryan, who I did not hear from until twelve days after Mikayla’s death,” said Strothers at the rally. “I don’t want to be a vigilante in this,” continued Strothers. “I don’t want to have to spend all day on the phone getting and passing along evidence in order for justice to be served. What I want is for the criminal justice system to work.” The rally was organized by Monica Cannon-Grant—the founder of Violence in Boston—and former Boston City Councilor Tito Jackson, both of whom spoke at the rally as well. “Imagine she [Mikayla] was white and five Black kids beat her up one night and the next morning she was found dead,” said Jackson, according to CNN. “Now open your eyes, open your eyes, and see the truth that we know—that if Mikayla was a young, white girl, we wouldn’t be here two and a half weeks after.” On April 18, Miller was found dead, hanging from a tree in a wooded area near the apartment Photograph of Mikayla Miller. Photo downloaded from WCVB.

Continued on page 3 Voter bills in Texas and Florida restrict voter rights and accessibility By Sara Zakaria News Writer

Two voting bills introduced or more. Voting booths would be counties with a population of at least would need to share information on in Texas will impose severe barred from opening for 24 hours. one million use a formula for the the voter, specifically why a voter restrictions on voting rights and Drive-thru voting will be distribution of polling places based requires the assistance, regardless procedures if passed, following the prohibited, as early voting would on voter registration. This could of the reason. Partisan poll watchers passage of a similar bill in Florida. have to take place inside a building. decrease the number of polling would be offered protection from The first bill, Senate Bill Drive-thru voting was a tactic places in districts represented by the bill by its outlining of criminal Seven, contains various limits on used by Harris County in the 2020 Democrats, which tend to be areas liability for election workers in voting hours. The bill would set a general election and a 2020 summer with a higher number of voters of their treatment of the poll watchers. 12-hour cap on early voting hours runoff. It became popular in Harris color. The bill would also ban local The House Elections in the last week of early voting, County, with one in 10 early election officials from sending Committee voted to replace Senate inside the window of 6 a.m to 9 voters (who did not vote by mail) applications for mail-in ballots to Bill Seven’s language with that of p.m. Counties with 30,000 or more used drive-thru voting to vote. It voters, regardless if they qualify House Bill Six. The two chambers residents have to operate for at is estimated by some democrats for it. would have to see which bill and least 12 hours in the last week of that more than half of drive-thru The second bill, House Bill which restrictions would be put on a early voting, a change from the voters were Black, Latino, or Asian Six, also includes restrictions on final version and signed into law by Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott current law, which specifies that American. the distribution of mail-in voting Gov. Greg Abbott. Abbott signaled speaks in 2018. Photo courtesy of the population has to be 100,000 The law would mandate that applications. Voter assistants support for the voting legislation. LBJ Library on Flickr.

Continued on page 4 Massachusetts mask and COVID business regulations relaxed By Abigail Basile News Editor

On April 27, Massachusetts Governor Masks are now only required in public, In the Baker administration’s highlighting that the state remains first in the Charlie Baker announced his plans to lift outdoor spaces if social distancing is announcement of the lift, the administration nation for “first vaccine doses and total doses the outdoor mask mandate and laid out a impossible, and “at other times required by explains that the reasons for the outdoor administered per capita, among states with reopening plan for businesses. sector-specific guidance,” according to new mask mandate lift and for other reopenings more than 5 million people.” The announcement came on the same Massachusetts guidelines. is the fact that public health metrics have Despite the lift on the outdoor mask day that the CDC announced that individuals With the elimination of the mandate consistently continued to “trend in a mandate, masks will still be required outside who are vaccinated do not need to wear a also comes the removal of the $300 outdoor positive direction.” These trends are based in two towns in Massachusetts. mask while doing outdoor activities alone, or mask enforcement fine. Still, masks are on the average number of daily reported Brookline and Salem have decided to when in small groups. required in all indoor public spaces, and are COVID cases and hospitalizations. The ignore the lift on the outdoor mask mandate On Friday, April 30, the lift on the recommended for private gatherings between announcement also included commendation and continue on with requiring masks in outdoor mask mandate went into effect. people from different households. for Massachusetts’ work in vaccinations, outdoor spaces. The towns are not expected

Continued on page 4 www.umassmedia.com News 3 Vigil and rally held for 16-year old Mikayla Miller as community searches for answers regarding her death Abigail Basile been engaged in a confrontation “Instead of actually getting after Miller’s death occurred. At autopsy, independent of the DA’s News Editor between her and five other proof, they [the authorities] the Tuesday press conference, office. Ryan claims that there is no teenagers, who were white and Googled the nUMass Bostoner Ryan discussed her office’s use of cover-up occurring regarding the complex in which she lived. Latino. Two of the teenagers of steps from my home to the video footage, witness statements, investigation, and called Miller’s Community members have taken physically attacked her, giving her location where she was found, and E-Z Pass records, and cellphone death an “unspeakable tragedy” to social media to call the death a a bloody lip. used that as their proof on national records to confirm that none of the in her press conference. She lynching followed by a subsequent About two and a half hours television,” said Strothers. “What teenagers involved in the fight with emphasized that the investigation police cover-up. after the fight took place, it was we know is that Mikayla’s phone Miller were with her in the woods was still ongoing. Originally, police told Strothers alleged that data from Miller’s was not activated, and therefore [it later that night. There are currently Miller was a sophomore at that the death was a suicide, and phone indicated that she walked is] nearly impossible to track her no pending charges against the Hopkinton High, where she played the Middlesex County District roughly 1,300 steps—about the exact steps between 9 and 10 p.m., teenagers involved in the fight. basketball and was an honors Attorney’s office dubbed the same distance between Miller’s which was confirmed by me from Miller’s family and other student. She wanted to study death “non-suspicious.” However, residence and the location where Apple.” activists from the community journalism at a historically Black Strothers and many members of the she was found dead the next day. Ryan’s office did not release are calling for an independent college, and her mother had been community question the accuracy However, a statement made by information surrounding Miller’s investigation. Cannon-Grant has planning college visits for the of these initial claims. Strothers in her speech at the rally death publicly until Tuesday, stated that Violence in Boston summer. The night before, Miller had contradicts this claim. May 4—more than two weeks would be conducting its own MASSPIRG’s year of virtual organizing: See what they’ve accomplished

MASSPIRG Students MASSPIRG kicked off the elections. Oftentimes, college heightened during the pandemic from private lenders. Right now, Contributing Writers semester by recruiting hundreds students are voting for the first and the economic crisis in the past they need Congress to take bold, New Voters Project: of students on campus to join time or are living in different places year. There’s a heightened interest bipartisan action to make life- Increasing youth voter turnout their team. Here at UMass Boston, than their permanent address. This in addressing these issues from changing degrees easier and more MASSPIRG saw a big increase they partnered with faculty and is why MASSPIRG prioritizes students and community members, affordable to earn. Learn more in voter turnout overall in the 2020 student groups to educate over educating people about how they and they worked to organize and here. Pell Grants used to cover three elections—breaking a 120 year 3,000students about their lead can get registered and turn out to mobilize people to take action quarters of the cost of an average old record! Young people were a campaign to power MA with 100% vote every major election cycle. by donating money, spreading four-year public tuition, but now it huge part of that, and we know it clean, safe, renewable energy Last semester, they worked to awareness, and working to build a covers less than a third. Doubling has a lot to do with peer-to-peer through announcements in classes mobilize young people to turnout coalition of groups here on campus Pell is an important step to restoring outreach and an increased interest and club meetings which helped to vote for the 2020 election. and in the community that will much of its intended purchasing in politics and issues that matter to them identify and hire80+ interns in Including the over 50,000 direct work towards long-term systemic power. They are working with a our generation. In Massachusetts, just the first three weeks of classes. contacts they made to voters in the changes to eliminate poverty in our diverse coalition of more than 80 we made over 50,000 contacts That team of student leaders days leading up to the election, they community. Some of those partners national groups to push Congress with youth voters through text and volunteers recruited over reached close to 120,000 students include U-ACCESS and Father to double the Pell, and together messages and phone calls alone 120 Beacons to join their virtual with the help of faculty, campus Bill’s and Mainspring. Over the they have a huge opportunity to to help people get registered and kickoff meeting at the beginning of administrators, social media course of the semester, our student make it happen. Congress has a lot cast their ballot safely. Including February — which was the largest influencers, and our volunteers volunteers and interns working of priorities to work through this the over 50,000 direct contacts we turnout in the chapter’s history! by activating emails, making with the Hunger and Homelessness budget season, and they need to made to voters, we reached close Youth Earth Week: A virtual class announcements, campaign raised over $900 through remind them to invest in students to 120,000 students by activating celebration of student activism and presenting in virtual student grassroots fundraising. These by doubling the Pell grant. In emails, making virtual class Since the founding of Earth group meetings. This peer-to-peer funds were donated to Father bills February, students with PIRG announcements, and presenting Day in 1970, students have been outreach certainly paid off because and Mainspring in Boston, and chapters from across the country in virtual student group meetings. celebrating Earth Day in creative they saw record breaking youth U-ACCESS here at UMass Boston. held 75 lobby meetings with their Here at UMass Boston, they ways. This year, the Student PIRGs voter turnout nation-wide, and here Making textbooks more members of congress to share made almost 200 virtual class went big. They not only celebrated in Massachusetts saw an increase in affordable their stories about why getting an announcements to help register the Earth, but also the hard work the young people who turned out to Along with many other affordable education is necessary early 500 students at UMass Boston- that they have been doing to vote. Here in Massachusetts, youth chapters across the state, our for them and asked their legislators making a big impact on voter protect it. From coast to coast, voter turnout increased from47 chapter has been working to to advocate for doubling the Pell turnout on campus! They did this StudentPIRG chapters, clubs, and percent in2016 to 52 percent in tackle the ever-rising costs of grant (and more) in the upcoming by building a Vote Coalition right partners held over 200 events to 2020. This is the highest in nearly textbooks. Here at UMass Boston, federal budget discussions. here at UMass Boston, including raise awareness and take action 50 years, since the passage of the they have focused on making All made possible by the $9 all of the faculty that allowed to protect our planet. Over 1,500 26th Amendment that lowered the progress statewide while keeping MASSPIRG fee them to join their classes over students attended Earth Week voting age from 21 to 18 in 1972. up momentum here on campus, to The problems that MASSPIRG Zoom, the Undergraduate Student events and took over 3,600actions Despite the fact all of this work make steps forward in establishing tackles are large; impacting us Government, College Democrats, to support our campaigns! Here was virtual, they are excited to an OER Program through the locally but are also often national College Republicans, NAACP, in Massachusetts, they held an announce that the work to recruit University Libraries. They have in scope. Our goals are not simply Office of Student Leadership& advocacy week to support the and train students to mobilize their yet to finalize the program but for students to “make their voices Civic Engagement, and the Office 100% Clean Act in Massachusetts. own communities, work! 76% of are moving in the right direction! heard” on these issues, but to win of Off-Campus Housing. Over 40 students attended over 30 the young people who the Student Statewide, they’ve been working concrete reforms that improve Continued public awareness meetings to talk to their legislators PIRGs’ New Voters Project helped to increase funding for programs people’s lives and the world. In order around COVID-19 and push for the bill which would to register leading up to the 2020 and resources that will help more to make real, substantial change, Since March 2020, commit the state to 100% clean election turned out to vote, and professors make the switch to Open they combine student enthusiasm MASSPIRG’s program and electricity by 2035 and 100%clean 70% of the young people contacted Educational Resources instead of with professional staff to run our advocate staff have continued to energy by 2045. In addition to through our peer-to-peer GOTV using more expensive, traditional effective statewide organization. find ways to protect people and lobbying elected officials, their program turned out to vote. But, textbooks. They generated petition And all of this campaign work our communities by advocating for chapters took the chance to democracy never stops! They signatures from students, lobbied is made possible because of the more PPE and COVID-19 tests to connect with their communities are determined to build off the our elected officials, and delivered students here at UMass Boston help flatten the curve. They released and the nature around them. They momentum of the 2020 election, a letter with over 150 student leader who pay their $9 MASSPIRG fee, and distributed a “home safe for the hosted events like a Boston solar and make sure that they continue to signatures. They’re working to pass and who reaffirmed their support holidays” guide to help students event calling on those running for help young people have their voices a bill this session that will allocate of our chapter in the Student and families be as safe as possible Mayor to prioritize climate change, heard in every level of government, $2.5 million to these programs - Government elections a few weeks during the holiday season, and are documentary movie screenings, not just presidential races. and they’ll keep you posted on how ago. Every few years, they provide now pivoting to more awareness game nights, and more! See below Addressing basic needs that effort goes. students with the opportunity to about vaccines. As the vaccines are for some of our chapters and through our Hunger & Protecting Pell Grant weigh in on the collective student becoming more readily available, campus partners celebrating! Homelessness campaign funding decision to continue funding our they will be continuing to spread Democracy never stops: There have always been At the national level, they’ve MASSPIRG chapter. This year, awareness about protecting public Young people turned out to vote people in our community who are worked for decades to protect a vast majority of students who health. at unprecedented levels! in need — whether that means Pell Grant funding and increase voted affirmed that support! Learn Record-breaking Having our voices heard is access to adequate shelter, food, protections for students as more about our chapter’s funding engagement: Building our UMass critical to a healthy democracy, and toiletries, or other medical/health consumers so they avoid becoming here: masspirgstudents.org/umass- Boston Leadership Team! that all starts with voting during related services. This has only been victims of predatory practices boston-fee/ 4 News Sports 5 the Covid-19 cases spike in India Genevieve Santilli the BBC. The government has that there is enough oxygen to meet News Writer not made any comment on the the rise in cases, but transportation Jonathan Hopkins allegations.” is the issue. Experts say something Sports Editor The country of India has India’s Covid-19 cases did should have been done earlier. beacon m descended into their second fall under 20,000 in January and With cases on the rise, shortage wave of Covid-19, with cases February, compared to the 90,000 in in oxygen and supplies, India has rising faster than hospitals can September of last year. With cases also expanded its vaccine eligibility manage. Hospitals in the country down, Prime Minister Narendra to anyone over 18. The country is Catch up with our men m are struggling to get oxygen to Modi opened all public gathering facing a shortage of vaccine doses, Contact: patients, and rollout of the vaccine places. With Modi’s reopening of despite being one of the main update and women in uniform has slowed due to there not being public places, citizens began not manufacturers of the Astrazeneca/ Massmedia.umb enough doses available. following social distancing and Oxford vaccine. According to the BBC, there mask wearing. According to CNBC, “Only @gmail.com were multiple warnings that were India’s second wave has 30 million people have had the It is officially crunch time for the Beacons, as the regular season is now nearing its end. In fact, for the UMass Boston lacrosse team, the Little East raised showing the issues that reached over 20 million infections, complete two doses of a Covid Conference tournament officially begins the day this article is being written (May 6). Both the men and women’s track and field teams also returned to EDITOR-IN-CHIEF would occur during a second wave. with almost 3.5 million people vaccine in India so far, government “Proud to serve the nation” Dr. “In November, a parliamentary being actively treated for Covid-19. data shows. That’s a small number Sohil posts words of courage action in the past week, so it is safe to say that there has been a lot going on for UMass Boston sports this past week. Grace Smith standing committee on health said According to the BBC and NPR, (just over 2 percent) of India’s total accompanying this photo uploaded there was an inadequate supply of India’s healthcare system is in a population of 1.3 billion people— to Twitter. Courtesy Dr. Sohil on Managing Editor oxygen and ‘grossly inadequate’ disastrous state, with hospitals not although around a quarter of that Twitter. government hospital beds. “ being able to care for all the people total are under 15 years old and, as according to GoFundMe, have Kaitlynn Castillo “In February, several experts in the hospitals, not having enough such, are not eligible for a vaccine contributed to relief for India so far. Men’s Baseball told the BBC they feared an supplies, and having a shortage of yet.” Travel from India to the U.S. PRODUCTION editor impending ‘Covid tsunami.’” beds. Different GoFundMe pages has been restricted due to the rise In this past week, the UMass Boston men’s baseball team has caught fire rattling off three wins in a row. With this recent winning streak, the “In early March, an expert Virologist Dr. Shahid Jameel have been created to raise money in cases. Many other countries have Beacons have risen to fourth in the conference and are still in reach of second place. In this upcoming week, the Beacons will have an opportunity to Shanarah Bargan group of scientists, set up by the said to the BBC, “The government to buy and send oxygen to India. banned travel from India including government, warned officials just did not see the second wave According to NBC, a spokesperson the U.K., Germany, Belgium, New show that they can compete with the best in the conference as they will face the top seeded Eastern Connecticut State twice on Saturday, May 8. They COPY EDITORS about a more contagious variant coming and started celebrating too for GoFundMe said, “that since Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, will then complete their regular season on Sunday, May 9, with a double header against Keene State College, who have been one of the worst teams in of coronavirus spreading in the early.” April 17, fundraisers related Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Iran, the conference. Phaedra ferrini country—only for no significant India was unprepared for the to Indian Covid-19 relief have Oman, Kuwait, Indonesia, Malawi, ady harris-fried containment measures to be taken, second wave of cases, and oxygen raised more than $6.5 million.” the Maldives, Tanzania, the one scientist from the group told is in high demand. Officials say 60,000 donors from 106 countries, Netherlands, Thailand, and Italy. andrea kline Women’s Softball News EDITOR Voter bills in Texas and Florida restrict voter The UMass Boston women’s softball team has had a rough go of it so far this season with a record of 2–8, which is good enough for second to last Abigail Basile rights and accessibility place in the conference. The Beacons still have six games remaining on their schedule, but all of those six games will be played in the next three days. So, even though UMass Boston does have an opportunity to turn their season around with a few wins to end the season, they only have three days to SPORTS EDITOR Sara Zakaria Texas like MOVE Texas, Progress is about “voter security” and is groups from handing out items to do so which can be an exhausting task. News Writer Texas, ACLU Texas, and the Texas “tired of the lies and the nest of liars voters at a polling station “with the Jonathan Hopkins Criminal Justice Coalition created a who continue to repeat them.” intent to influence.” Partisan poll Two letters have been sent letter addressed to Abbott, Lt. Gov. A similar bill was recently watchers will also be protected. ARTS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR out by various corporations and Dan Patrick, and House Speaker passed in the House and Senate New voter ID requirements Fiona Broadie business executives opposing voter Dade Phelan, out of concern of chambers in Florida. Florida will be issued for mail-in voting, Men’s Lacrosse restrictions and the passage of the bills’ criminal punishments Governor Ron DeSantis signed the and non-profit and private funds Health & Wellness EDITOR these voting bills. The first letter, that could mainly affect people bill into law on Thursday. The bill will not be allowed to be used to The men’s lacrosse team had a season for the ages, as they finished with a perfect regular season, going 7–0. It seems they were dominant in almost created by HP, Microsoft, Unilever, of color. According to a study of will limit the collection and drop- conduct elections. The bill will also every game they played this season and that showed once again this past week as they beat the American International College by a score of 23–11. Mikayla Mackay Salesforce, Patagonia, Sodexo, election bills conducted by 26 off of ballots. The bill mandates restrict drop boxes, which were and other local companies, does organizations, almost half of all that a person can only possess used by 1.5 million voters in Florida They play their first LEC tournament game tonight (May 6) at 7 p.m. ET against Plymouth State University. UMass Boston last played Plymouth State OPINIONS EDITOR not criticize the two voting bills punishments would affect poll their own ballot, along with one in the 2020 general election. on April 27, and the Beacons imposed their will, beating them by a score of 21–7. Plymouth State will seek revenge, but it would be tough to see a explicitly but states their opposition workers and election officials. belonging to an immediate family Both bills come in the midst of scenario in which UMass Boston loses. For a team who seemingly dominated their competition, I’d be willing to bet that the Beacons will make a deep Matthew Reiad to “any changes that would restrict House Bill 6 would create the most member and two others. This a wave in voting bills created after eligible voters’ access to the ballot.” criminal penalties out of any House restriction will impact low-income the 2020 election. As of March run in the LEC tournament. The second letter, signed by bill, and Senate Bill 7 would add voters and voters of color, as it 24, 361 restrictive voter bills were Photo Editor 100 executives from Houston, the most out of any Senate bill. does not accommodate immigrant introduced in 47 states, according Dom Ferreira explicitly criticizes the two bills and In response to criticisms over family households that usually to the Brennan Center for Justice. accuses them of voter suppression. voter suppression, Lt. Gov. Dan include extended family members. Men and Women’s Track and Field News Writers Criminal justice groups in Patrick said that Senate Bill Seven The Florida bill will ban Genna Santilli In the past week, both the men and women’s track and field teams competed in the 2021 Little East Conference Outdoor Championship meet. The men had a rough go of it, finishing in eighth place out of eight teams. The women’s track and field team finished in sixth out of eight teams. For the Sara Zakaria Massachusetts mask and COVID business men, Jimmy Cannon shone, as he won gold in the 10,000-meter run event. The shining star for the women was freshman thrower Teya Drumm, as she Sports Writers won gold in the discus throw and came in second in shot put at the LEC championship event. Drumm was also named LEC Rookie Field Athlete of the regulations relaxed Week, a tremendous achievement for the freshman. Josemanuel Cruz Jack Sherman Abigail Basile well as parades, will be able to operate at 50 News Editor percent capacity. At this point, bars, breweries, It certainly has been a wacky year here at UMass Boston. But it finally seems that things are getting back to normal, and spring sports seems like Arts & Lifestyle Writers to reevaluate the measure until later this month. distilleries, wineries, and beer gardens will In addition to the outdoor mask mandate be able to follow the same rules restaurants they have been the catalyst for bringing a sense of normalcy back to campus. So, let’s hope everyone stays healthy now so we can all be back in the fall Kyle Makkas lift, the governor’s office also announced three are following: No dance floors, seated service to see our sports teams play in person! major dates on which different businesses will only, and a 90 minute time limit on the dining Katrina Sanville be able to reopen. experience. Beginning on May 10, arenas, stadiums, and Gov. Baker plans to reopen industries that Photographers ballparks will move from allowing 12 percent have not been able to operate since the beginning capacity to 25 percent capacity. Additionally, of the pandemic on Aug. 1. These industries Delaney Hooper amusement parks and water parks will be able include: saunas, steam rooms, and hot-tubs at Maya Martinez to reopen at 50 percent capacity, given that they fitness facilities, dance clubs and nightclubs, ball submit plans for reopening to the Department pits, and indoor water parks. At that point, all cONTRIBUTORS of Public Health (DPH). Road races and other industries will be open at 100 percent capacity outdoor organized athletic events have also and gathering limits will be eliminated as well. Nadeen El-Ansari been given the green light should they submit The announcement highlights that this date their safety plans to the DPH as well. Finally, is subject to change depending on vaccination Nicholas Gilbertson indoor singing will be allowed at restaurants, and public health trends. performance venues, and other businesses. For more information regarding the STAFF ADVISOR Then, on May 29, the number of people reopening process in Massachusetts, visit: who can gather for indoor events will increase https://www.mass.gov/info-details/reopening- Charles Henriques to 200 people, while the number of people who massachusetts A girl takes a walk at the UMass Boston campus with her mask on. Photo by Maya Martinez / Mass can gather for outdoor events will increase to Media Staff. 250 people. Street and agricultural festivals, as 6 Sports Sports 7 Patriots land quarterback of the future in NBA Awards predictions Josemanuel Cruz Julius Randle. This is the Alabama’s Mac Jones Sports Writer easiest award this year. This year Nick Gilbertson 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns, quarterback selected in the first available there at our pick. He’s a upcoming season could surprise Julius Randle is top five in MVP Contributing Writer all while tallying a completion round during Belichick’s reign guy we spent a lot of time with and a number of critics. Conversely, May 16 is the last day of voting and is leading his team to percentage over 70 percent last year in Foxboro, but he is also the felt that that was the best pick at If Newton has trouble nearing the the NBA Season and that means the fourth seed in the east. He Last Thursday, the New for the Crimson Tide. While Jones first quarterback drafted by the the time for us. We look forward to halfway point of the season, then that the NBA Awards are all but is averaging 24 points per game England Patriots landed quarterback had a stellar campaign at Alabama Patriots in the post Tom Brady working with him. You know, he’s the possibility for Jones to start decided. I already wrote an article (+4), but what stands out more is Mac Jones with the 15th overall last season, he surely has his work era. Coach Belichick endorsed a smart kid, he’s been in a system should begin to creep in. about the MVP race so if you his increased playmaking with six pick in the NFL Draft. Jones is an cut out for him in Foxboro. the organization’s pick of Jones similar to ours.” Though we may not know want to hear more about that go assists (+3). He has been a good Alabama product who passed for Jones is not only the first following the draft. “Mac was The new Patriots quarterback when or if, Jones will start for the check it out. playmaker this season for the was seemingly elated with how Patriots this season, it is clear that Coach of the Year: Monty first time in his career. He is also things shook out in the draft. “I’m he is the long-term solution as Williams having the best shooting season just so blessed to be part of a great successor to Tom Brady here in Many people expected that of his career shooting, 46 percent organization,” Jones said. “It’s not New England. Jones has a similar the Phoenix Suns would finally from the field and 42 percent from really where you get picked, it’s play style to Brady in that he is not make the playoffs this season. three (+14 percent). There are what you do with the opportunity. wildly fast, but he is shifty in the Last season, they were undefeated other players who have improved That’s what Coach Saban told me, pocket, often making defenders in the bubble and made major this season like Jerami Grant and so I’m just going to follow that.” miss. He is also an extremely moves in free agency picking up Christian Wood, but they both Jones was widely speculated to be accurate thrower of the ball and Chris Paul. While many people missed a significant number of the third overall selection by the was a good game manger during his expected them to be good, nobody games and have not improved San Francisco 49ers, but when San time in Alabama. expected them to be THIS good. more than Julius Randle. Francisco selected Trey Lance, One can assume that Jones Right now, they are the second Sixth Man of the Year: Jones fell to the number fifteen spot is under a tremendous amount of best team in the entire league. Jordan Clarkson where he was scooped up by New pressure, being the heir-apparent A lot of the credit should go to Jordan Clarkson has been on England. Jones would add, “at the to the greatest football player of all Chris Paul, but Monty Williams fire for a majority of the year, so end of the day, you want to just get time. As humble and down to earth is also responsible for the culture much so that in Utah his nickname the right fit, and I feel like secretly, as Jones may be, the shadow of in Phoenix. This team plays so is the flamethrower. He has been I really wanted to go to the Patriots number 12 looms heavy over One fluidly. They have amazing ball vital to this team, averaging about all along.” Patriot Place. movement that lead to great shots, 18 points off the bench. Clarkson Making the Jones selection In the past, Jones has been and they play great defense. may not be the most efficient even more interesting is the fact vocal about his admiration and Rookie of the Year: shooter, but he is one of the best that a quarterback controversy adoration of Brady. In January of Anthony Edwards tough-shotmakers in the league. is seemingly imminent in New 2019, Jones posted a picture of There are times when Even when he is cold, players England. While Newton was the himself shirtless, where he has Anthony Edwards looks like the have to be scared of him because clear-cut starter heading into draft very little definition, and looks best player on the court. Anthony he could heat up at any time. Utah night, the selection of Jones has rather gawky and goofy. Next to Edwards is not scared of the has a lot of defensive minded cast doubt on whether Newton will this image, in the same tweet, is the moment; he regularly takes over players like Gobert, Royce start the upcoming season. Head famous photograph of Tom Brady quarters and even games while O’Neal and Joe Ingles; Clarkson Coach Bill Belichick made clear in boxer shirts at the draft combine being on the same team as Karl is allowed to shoot as many shots that Cam is the starting quarterback, in 2000. In the picture Brady is Anthony Towns. Recently he as he wants coming off the bench, at least for the time being. “Cam’s looking just goofy and awkward as had a 42-point, six rebound and and the Jazz are better for it. our quarterback. At whatever time Jones in his. seven assist game. He is the third Defensive Player of the Jarret [Stidham] or Mac are ready In his post draft presser, Jones youngest rookie with a 40-point Year: Ben Simmons National Basketball Association Logo. Copyright NBA. Uploaded for commentary. to challenge and compete, then you was asked whether Tom Brady game and is leading all rookies The last guard to win know, we’ll see how that goes,” sparked his fandom in the Patriots. in scoring with 19 points a game. Defensive Player of the Year was position. Ben has the speed and of that is because of his defense. being a Defensive Player of the Belichick said. “Right now, for Jones, refusing to take the bait, Early in the season, Lamelo Ball Gary Payton in 1995. To put that lateral quickness to keep up with MVP: Joel Embiid Year candidate. He is averaging Mac, he just has a lot of learning in smartly responded, “I just love was the runaway Rookie of the into perspective, Gary Payton’s the best guards, as well as the I already wrote about why 29 points per game (third in the front of him.” how he maneuvers through the Year. However, he got injured son is now in the league. While strength and size to hold his own I think Embiid should be MVP league) and 11 rebounds. Most While much of Patriots nation pocket and stuff. For me, it’s just halfway through the season, Ben Simmons is closer in height against the best bigs in the league. in a previous article, but to people have Jokic, but I have would like to see Jones suit up being myself and being my own missing 19 games, and in those 19 to the average center, he still One of the reasons why he is so summarize: Embiid has led his Embiid because of his team’s right away, I caution that it may player. Obviously, he did great games Edwards has been on fire qualifies as a point guard. What highly praised despite his glaring team to the best record in the success and elite defense. be in the best interest of the team, things for New England and I just and taken it from Lamelo. makes him different from past shooting weakness is because of East, and third in the whole fans, and Mac Jones if the Patriots look forward to going in there and Most Improved Player of years’ Defensive Player of the his elite defense. He is already a league. He has done this by being take things slow at first with the working.” the Year: Julius Randle Years is his ability to guard any two time All Star and a big part dominant offensively, as well as new quarterback last first. As Newton was actually afforded a full offseason this year, and the Patriots have upgraded weapons at the tight- Mac Jones. Illustration by Delaney Hooper / Mass Media Staff. end position in Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith, his performance this Three potential first round opponents for the Bruins Jonathan Hopkins and they have fallen from first place in the team in the league, and they have the size to went the full seven games. It is going to be Sports Editor division all the way to fourth. They are the punch any team in the mouth and make them a battle of attrition, and it is going to be a least battle tested when it comes to playoff fold. In recent years, the B’s have struggled dogfight. With just about a week left to go on experience, and it seemed that they aren’t against the Caps; however this season, in the regular season, the East Division is still quite the same team they were just a month seven games, the Bruins have won four, so wide open. The Bruins currently sit in third ago. the Bruins have shown they can hold their place in the division; however, they can land Pittsburgh Penguins own. Still, if I were the Bruins, I would look anywhere between first place and fourth place The Penguins have been the opposite to avoid the Capitals at least in the first round. come playoff time. So even though they have of the Islanders this season, as they have Ultimately, when it comes down to it, clinched a playoff spot, they still have quite a gone from being a team on the fringe of the the Bruins can only really avoid one team if bit to play for with these last few games. playoffs to a top two team in the division. they end up winning in the first round. So, Since the standings are far from With the deadline acquisition of Jeff Carter, the ideal scenario in my opinion would be complete, that means that there are three the Pens are very deep at the center position that the Bruins play either the Islanders or potential playoff opponents the B’s can face when it comes to skill and playoff pedigree. Penguins in the first round and hope that the in the first round. Let’s take a look at those The Penguins are probably the most Caps get knocked out before the Bruins can three opponents and see how they would experienced team when it comes to winning meet them in the second round. Either way, match up against the Bruins. in the playoffs, so they will be a tough out for this playoff run will undoubtedly be a tough New York Islanders the Bruins, but not the toughest out. one. Chances are, they won’t get the cake Probably the most ideal first round Washington Capitals walk they had in the 2019 playoffs when it opponent for the Bruins in my opinion. The The Washington Capitals, in my seemed like the Bruins casually made it to Islanders have had the Bruins number all opinion, are the scariest team in the entire the finals with little resistance. Chances are, season, but recently it seems the Islanders league let alone the East Division. The Caps if the Bruins do make a deep run, it will be have been on a bit of a slide. The Bruins have the perfect mix of size and skill. They similar to the 2011 run where it seemed like Boston Bruins Logo Recreation. Illustration by beat the Islanders in their last two meetings, have the skill and speed to match up with any every series (aside from the Flyers series) Delaney Hooper / Mass Media Staff. 8 Health & Wellness Arts & Lifestyle 9 The illusion of social media “The Circle” Netflix Show: an amazing fishbowl Mikayla MacKay Health & Wellness Editor view of social media Before you read this article, I Fiona Broadie twist: You can enter “The Circle” the social media platform [No on Netflix. But remember: no remain a secret until everyone has encourage you to open the social media app Arts & Lifestyle Editor as anyone: a catfish, or yourself. spoilers here, read on safely]. spoilers!!! The winners must seen it. that you use the most. Scroll for a moment This means that an old man can This sends the concerning and take note of what you see. What type “The Circle” is reality enter “The Circle” as a twenty- message to viewers of the show of posts do you end up liking? What posts television like you have never seen year-old woman, or vice versa. As that social media can change your seem to be the most popular? it before. With two full seasons one can imagine, this creates some real-life just as much as you can It seems like posts showing off now streaming, the show has been hilarious scenarios. For instance, create a fake image. When people something typically do the best online, on and off the top of the most in season one, the audience was get invested in their friendship or whether that be someone’s looks, popular shows on Netflix, and for able to witness a man “catfishing” relationship with someone they someone’s car, or someone’s travels. good reason. In a set-up that eerily as his girlfriend, and flirting have never actually spoken to Before you like something on social mirrors the quarantine period, a with another man through “The (except through text), things can media, do you ever ask yourself how real small number of contestants are Circle.” How bizarre is that? And get dangerous—both mentally a post is? confined to their own apartment it’s all in the name of the game— and literally. Over the past year I have become more in a massive building that seems contestants will do whatever it The ranking of people, the and more aware of the “illusion” that seems to be possessed by the show. takes, including fake-flirting, creation of “Circle Influencers” to have overtaken social media, especially These contestants are isolated fake-friendships, and creating and the “blocking” at the end of in the present day as social media has and can only communicate with complete fabrications of their each episode are also strikingly become an ego booster for most users. one another through a special lives in order to win the prize reminiscent of real life social So many people now edit their photos, social media program created money. media, and the way contestants which was once unheard of when it came to specifically for filming, called Not only is “The Circle” react dramatically and emotionally posting on your page. Apps like Facetune “The Circle.” On the social media hilarious due to funny catfish to being made influencers, being and Lightroom have become ragingly platform, each contestant can combinations, but it is also ranked low/high, or being blocked popular. These types of apps allow you create a limited profile, post status completely genius in creating a is a display of the real effects of to adjust your photo in the ways that you updates, and participate in group- fishbowl view of social media. In fake social media. When you are desire. chats. At the end of each day, the particular, the notable fakeness of just tapping a screen, it can be I personally believe someone should contestants rank each other from social media: How anyone can be hard to remember that your tiny be able to do whatever they want with favorite to least-favorite. The anyone, how anyone can present movements can have large and their photos. However, to me it becomes top of the ranking list become their lives in any way, and how it real consequences. Seriousness a problem when this person is basing their “Circle Influencers” that then get all has a profound effect on our aside, “The Circle” is a brilliantly actions solely on the unrealistic standards the power to “block” whomever collective psyche. Even though funny show, intentionally or of social media, and when it is also to they choose. Whichever player the contestants of the show are unintentionally a satire for the appease others and fit in. Editing your A girl takes a selfie, smiling. Photo by Maya Martinez / Mass Media Staff. can survive all the blockings and well aware of the possibility ages, and will be staying on photos should be something you want to off of the Internet. Most accounts that had families’ content every single day. skewed our beauty standards and it is be ranked highest at the end of of catfishes in the game, they my list of favorites for a long do for your own self and something that posted this photo allegedly got their pages Fans began to wonder if their bodies having a bigger impact on a lot of people’s the game will win one hundred become heavily invested in the time. Catch the full season one Promotional art for “The Circle” show. Copyright Netflix. Uploaded for makes you the most happy. suspended or frozen. were good enough if Khloe was scrambling self esteem and mental health than you thousand dollars. But here’s the relationships they create through and season two, now streaming commentary. It becomes difficult when celebrities Khloe then went onto the Internet to to get rid of a type of photo most of them may want to believe. and influencers promote lifestyles and release a statement saying “This is me and could actually relate to! It is important to keep in mind when beauty standards that are most of the time my body unretouched and unfiltered... People also criticized how the exploring social media and using it for unattainable and not actually real. when someone takes a photo of you that Kardashians and Jenners have created such your own leisure that your page and posts “Behind Her Eyes”: Netflix’s new mind-blowing show If you have been reading tabloids isn’t flattering in bad lighting or doesn’t new and intense beauty standards that they should be content that you personally love this past week, you may have seen the capture your body the way it is after themselves can’t even keep up with or and enjoy. If editing your photos makes Nadeen El-Ansari blown. These are the only three name. the quote mentioned above, it is this show is how easily the “scandal” of Khloe Kardashian’s unedited working so hard to get to this point—and achieve, without the help of editing, good you the most happy, then do that! Don’t Contributing Writer words that I could come up The story follows Louise, a truly strange how different we director would transition from and unfiltered photo that went viral. In the then shares it to the world—you should lightning, makeup, etc. edit your photos to match these celebs and with when coming to watch divorced mother, who decides to appear to one another. It turns one character’s perspective to photo she is wearing a leopard bathing suit have every right to ask for it to not be Of course, the Kardashians are not the influencers. “It’s strange how different we Netflix’s new binge-worthy sci- go out and have a little fun one out that David is not just some the next, without confusing the and showing off her, quite honestly, great shared—regardless of who you are” (1). only culprits here. Social media influencers In reality, social media can be a great all appear to who we really are.” - fi show “Behind Her Eyes”. This night. She ends up meeting and random stranger that Louise met audience. “Granted, one could body! I completely understand where Khloe and models have grown in their popularity. place when you have the right mindset. Sarah Pinborough. show is an adaptation of Sarah eventually falling in love with a overnight, but is, in fact, her argue that the shift in tone comes It seems like Khloe and her team is coming from, however it becomes a Most of the time, they are portraying a Shocked. Confused. Mind- Pinborough’s novel of the same guy named David. However, as boss. To add the cherry on top, a bit out of left field, but therein felt otherwise though. Khloe’s team tricky subject when such impressionable fantasy. he is also married. After a turn of lies the fun of it,” says Brian immediately began trying to get this photo minds are being exposed to her and her Social media has contorted and events, Louise ends up meeting Lowry, a senior writer for CNN. David’s wife, Adele. Instead of As I mentioned earlier, this pulling away from the family, she show mainly revolves around The current pandemic: To be or not to be vaccinated? becomes best friends with Adele, Adele and Louise, therefore it and even becomes intrigued with would only seem fair if both of Mikayla MacKay normalcy. You may have been The Moderna vaccine these variants, however that is vaccines’ efficacy against these the relationship that Adele and their stories, past and present, Health & Wellness Editor missing it, too. If you have and is similar to Pfizer in its being closely monitored. new virus mutations, and just David have, constantly wanting were presented to the viewers. are ready to jump right back, I functionality. It also comes with The CDC constantly posts overall educating yourself on the to know more about them. If you It was really important for both The Covid vaccine is one of highly encourage you to start similar side effects. As for the updates to their website. They are vaccine that you would prefer to guys think that’s crazy, then you of their character developments, the most crucial ways we are going your vaccination journey. efficacy, “[Moderna is] 94.1 great at keeping us informed. I get. are definitely in for a treat! in order for the audience to to combat the spread of the virus The vaccines are continuously percent effective at preventing would highly recommend keeping This six episode series is understand why those women and diminish our cases. Since its being recorded and administered symptomatic infection in people an eye out on the updates of these flooded with betrayal, love, became the women that they are. official rollout on December 14, for any new developments or with no evidence of previous lust, revenge, mental illness, the The only issue I had with this around 250 million vaccinations issues. However, the science is COVID-19 infection” (3). Its supernatural, and the unraveling show, other than the fact that it have been administered, with sound. They have worked hard on efficacy does drop to 86.4 percent secrets of the past. Although it scarred me for life, would have around 107 million now being these vaccines and I don’t believe for users 65 years of age or older might move a bit too slowly for to be the transition of events. fully vaccinated in the US (1). they should be villainized. Just (3). one’s liking in the beginning, I In my opinion, I think that they As for Massachusetts, around like previous vaccinations, this Pfizer is the most common guarantee you that it is worth the waited until the last two episodes 6.6 million doses have been process is normal. And although vaccine out of the three. wait. to reveal everything, so it was a given with 2.7 million now being they are now common and According to Yale Medicine, There are various aspects of lot to take in. Although there may fully vaccinated (2). Our state is accepted, every vaccination has “[Pfizer is] 95 percent [effective] the show that I fell in love with, have been certain clues here and leading in vaccinations, along gone through this process to get in preventing COVID-19 in those the first aspect being the emphasis there throughout the start of the with states like Maine, California, to where it is today. without prior infection” and is on the women in the show. For as show, I think the clues could have Connecticut, and Vermont. These As discussed in one of my “equally effective across a variety long as I can remember, in any been presented in a better manner, are the states that have vaccinated previous articles, Johnson & of different types of people and show that I used to watch there where some things are revealed, at least half of their population or Johnson began to have a few variables, including age, gender, were always two main things: but not to a massive extent. more. cases of blood clotting in women race, ethnicity, and body mass 1.) A hero, 2.) An important Which brings me to my With the outdoor mask users ages 18 to 48 (3). Although index (BMI)—or presence of male figure. This show took that conclusion: What would I rate mandate now letting up and it was only around six cases, it other medical conditions” (3). typical stereotype and broke it this show? Personally, for an Massachusetts just recently was still taken very seriously. As for the virus mutations down. Despite the fact that there individual who’s not interested releasing their upcoming The pause on the J&J that have come up, Pfizer and is a male in the show, and that in the whole genre of thriller Covid-19 phase dates, it seems vaccination has now been lifted. It Moderna are reportedly the his presence may be somewhat and supernatural, I would give it like we are slowly going back to is now being offered, just with the most effective when it comes relevant, the plot of the story a solid 8.5/10. It had the perfect normal. additional warning of a rare but to combating variants B.1.1.7 rarely revolves around him. This combination of romance, sadness, More and more things will possible blood clotting disorder. (which was found in Great show revolves mainly around the anger, and fear rushing through be opening. And more and more Although the J&J vaccination Britain) and B.1.351 (found in two women, Louise and Adele, my body. I would definitely events like concerts and festivals is convenient in the way it only South Africa). There have not and how they are connected to recommend watching this show. will be allowed to run again. A takes one dose, I would personally been enough studies done to Depiction of a coronavirus vaccine vial. Illustration by Delaney Hooper / one another in a very eerie way. Mass Media Staff. Promotional art for “Behind Her Eyes” show. Copyright Netflix. Uploaded for commentary. lot of us have been missing this recommend Moderna or Pfizer. correlate J&J’s efficacy against Another great thing about 10 Arts & Lifestyle Arts & Lifestyle 11 Billie Eilish: “Your Power” review Fan theories: How far is too far? Fiona Broadie a huge snake slowly wraps its Katrina Sanville albums adding up to certain dates, posts—such as three heart emojis, Swift’s fans are not the only nowhere because they knew One Arts & Lifestyle Editor body more and more tightly Arts Writer photos in the collage Swift made three praying hand emojis, or the group to fall victim to the black Direction would top all the charts. around her. The snake itself is for Colbert, or the 500th post on her use of “well, well, well” in a tweet— hole of theories, though. Fans of The twenty one pilots theories In anticipation of her unquestionably a symbol for an For fans who are constantly Instagram being the announcement as well as Swift’s merchandise for musicians like J.Cole, twenty one seemed to be even more in line with upcoming album “Happier Than older man attempting to control looking for new music from their of “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” “Folklore” and “Evermore” coming pilots, One Direction, and Lorde Swift, with fans over-analyzing Ever,” talent Billie Eilish has her using power dynamics. One favorite artists, a dry spell without with the original album being her in a set of three. As Elena Rubin for all have created speculations about numbers provided by the musician. released a track early. Titled must wonder, however, if the music can be devastating. Even for fifth album. As Natalie Morin for Showbiz CheatSheet said: their favorite artists. As Rachel Dowd for Alternative “Your Power,” Billie Eilish’s new singer is actually beginning to be those who just got a release, the Refinery 29 writes: “They [Swift’s fans] found Some theories have more Press writes: song mixes folk elements with strangled towards the end of the clues left by the artist can be just “In it [the collage], she clues in album covers, repeating substance to them than Easter “A lot of listeners took to her signature soft voice to bring song, and how her team managed as appealing—if not more so— includes a photograph of the talk trilogy stories within the songs eggs disguised as “hints” by Swift, Reddit to share their ideas on what light to the topic of abuse-of- to get the snake off of her when than the newest single or album. show host from 1989, a seagull themselves, and even Swift’s such as someone pretending to 178 may signify. Some believe it power dynamics in relationships. shooting ended. However, it is no However, there are always the fans that was featured in the shirt Swift merchandise containing sets of be J.Cole’s media manager and could mean new twenty one pilots Throughout the song, Eilish surprise that Eilish has included who take the theories too far—and wears on the ‘1989’ album art, as threes.” claiming that an album would be music is arriving on Aug. 17, 2021 switches from singing in third- such a wild element in her video, what happens then? well as 8 hearts and 9 stars. One However, nothing came of dropping the night the tweet had (8/17). Meanwhile, others think we person to first-person; this creates for many of her past music videos With social media, it can user was also quick to point out that either of these theories, and when been posted, but others fell right in could hear new music on June 22, the effect that she is talking about have featured similar stunts. be easier than ever for fans of a Swift included a picture of a pizza April 30 rolled around—the day line with Swift and her fanbase. 2021 which is 178 days after the herself and others who have Fans of Eilish remember this, musical artist or band to talk or (emblematic of New York) with Swift’s fans were theorizing— A One Direction fan speculated [“Level of Concern” music] video experienced similar imbalances and so it is no surprise that the form connections on the basis of five pepperonis, as ‘1989’ was the nothing was announced. Though that musicians like Justin Bieber originally ended.” of power in their relationships. “Your Power” music video has their favorite musician. So when singer’s fifth full-length album.” the fans had been let down, these and Taylor Swift were hurrying to The impact this sort of “tin- At the beginning, she sings: “She generated 47 million views in a an artist starts dropping hints about On the other hand, fans in theories seem a bit far-fetched and get music out back in July before foil hat conspiracy theorist” style said you were a hero, you played week. their next work, or leaves what support of the third album in the as though the fans were grasping the band made their return, however of fanbase can have is two-fold. On the part / But you ruined her in a In a similar fashion, the seems like a breadcrumb trail of “Folklore” trilogy looked to sets at straws for content, even though that theory had little substance the one hand, fans get their hopes year, don’t act like it was hard / track itself has gotten nearly clues for their fans towards the next of three. Swift and her team used “Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” had to it beyond the speculation that up for a release that never comes, And you swear you didn’t know 40 million listens on Spotify, work, fans often band together to motifs of three in social media just been released in April. artists were releasing music out of but on the other, if the artist is (Didn’t know) / No wonder why and this is just the beginning. solve the clues as best as they can. planning something, it can foil their you didn’t ask / She was sleeping The full album “Happier Than No clearer of an example of plans before they’re ready for the in your clothes (In your clothes) / Ever” comes out on July 30. On this are the theories from Taylor surprise reveal. But now she’s got to get to class Instagram, Eilish stated that the Swift’s fans surrounding April 30 While there likely isn’t any / How dare you?” These lyrics, Art for the single “Your Power” by Billie Eilish. Copyright Darkroom/Interscope Records. Uploaded for album was her “favorite thing and the release of her next album. A way to stop fans from making these commentary. as well as the later lyric “You (she’d) ever created.” Billie, we few of Swift’s fans began noticing conspiracies or theories about their said you thought she was your with a 22-year-old man (while person lyrics bring a significant one, the folksy feel to the are all looking forward to hearing “Easter eggs” that she was leaving favorite artists and their releases, age / How dare you?,” speak to Eilish was in her teenage years). feeling to the song—as if we instrumentals in the song is a it! Whether this will be a full folk in her posts on social media. Swift fans should be more attentive to power imbalances through age It certainly seems that Eilish is must pay special attention to this surprising new choice for Eilish, album, her usual pop, or a mixture has always been the type of artist to what is actually a clue and what differences. Fans in the YouTube speaking to her own experiences track, because Eilish is saying although it does pair nicely with of different genres remains to be include these hidden details in her is just a far-fetched idea. Though comments of the “Your Power” on this track, especially when something important. the rustic and warm color theme seen. All we know is this: when it work for her eagle-eyed fans to find, artists may like to include Easter music video have speculated that she sings, “I thought that I was Beyond the lyrics, the that the artist seems to have comes to Miss Eilish, expect the and with enough investigating most eggs in their work, not everything the twenty-two seconds of silence special, you made me feel / Like instrumentals and accompanying created for this album. The music unexpected. fans can pick up on these details. they write or do has a hidden at the end of the video allude to it was my fault you were the video to “Your Power” have video features Eilish sitting on The details pointing towards the message, and rather are done on a past relationship of Eilish’s devil, lost your appeal.” The first- several jarring elements. For the side of a mountain, while next album—what started as the accident, or have no other meaning. second re-record and quickly While the thrill of playing detective spiraled into the third album in can be fun, just enjoying the music the “Folklore” trilogy theory—has and the surprise of releases can be Elon Musk is hosting SNL: Is the cast okay with that? been no exception to this as well. as well. Kyle Makkas is,” along with a devil emoji. AMERICANS. That is a moral Fans in support of the “1989 Arts Writer Depending on who you ask, that obscenity.” As Elon Musk is (Taylor’s Version)” release pointed devil emoji may be more than at the top of the list of wealthy out small details during Swift’s If you were the richest person merely playful. Americans, Byrant’s tweet seems performance on Stephan Colbert’s Taylor Swift in 2012. Photo courtesy of Eva Rinaldi on Flickr. in the world, what would you Bowen Yang, an SNL aimed at him. Additionally, Chris show, such as song tracks and do with all of that money? Buy cast member, reacted to the Redd retweeted a Musk tweet an island? Move into a castle? announcement on his Instagram asking for skit ideas, adding, What opportunities would this story. He simply posted an emoji, “First I’d call Em sketches.” status give you? Well, it appears with its eyebrows raised and Later, he said that this was just a that one possible answer to the mouth twisted into a frown. Aidy five-word retweet done from his Opinions question is… host Saturday Night Bryant, another cast member, toilet. Live. retweeted a Bernie Sanders tweet This is certainly not the Elon Musk, who was that said, “The 50 wealthiest entire cast, but it is a very notable reported to be the richest person people in America today own number of people. The producer in the world back in January, more wealth than the bottom half of SNL, Lorne Michaels, stated Becoming vegan has recently been announced as of our people. Let me repeat that, that nobody would be forced to Aanchal Kumar the host of this Saturday’s SNL. because it is almost too absurd take part in Musk’s episode if lead to a reduction in body weight, dinner. Try out new recipes. Contributing Writer When this was revealed, he to believe: the 50 wealthiest they weren’t comfortable doing ultimately leading to a low-calorie Change up your cooking methods. tweeted “Let’s find out just how people in this country own more so. Vegan. An individual who diet. You might want to consider baked live Saturday Night Live really wealth than some 165 MILLION On the other hand, some at does not consume any food or use Being vegan is healthier. meals instead of fried ones; they’re SNL have expressed excitement any products that contain animal Eating fruits and vegetables much healthier and don’t contain over this week’s show. Micheal by-products or are made from helps to lower cholesterol, as a oil. Che said he was excited to meet animals. As of 2021, approximately result decreasing the risk of heart Just remember, it takes time the billionaire and joked on 79 million people in the world disease. A vegan diet consists of for your body to get used to a “The Tonight Show with Jimmy are vegan. Vegans do not eat foods that are plant-based and vegan diet. Be patient. Take it one Fallon” that he hoped that this meat, cheese, or milk. Instead, low in sodium, thereby healthier step at a time. Don’t give up. By host would keep up the tradition vegans tend to go for almond or for people with diabetes and high going vegan, you’re reducing the of giving millions of dollars to soy milk and plant-based burgers. blood pressure. Plant-based foods demand for animal products, in turn cast members. Pete Davidson has It’s important to read food labels contain antioxidants that can reduce creating a lesser need for animals to also said that he looked forward to before buying groceries and other the risk of cancer. Start by taking a suffer in factory farming and to be Musk hosting the show. “I don’t Elon Musk on May 30, 2020. Photo courtesy of Shealah Craighead. food items to make sure they don’t few plant-based meals that you love slaughtered. End animal cruelty. know why people are freaking contain any animal by-products. and adding them to your plate every Animals go through pain and suffer out”, he said on “Late Night with names. When talking about the say that he earned every cent of According to the U.S. News day. These could include avocado every day in slaughterhouses. Seth Meyers.” soon-to-come COVID vaccines his vast fortune, even if Bernie and PETA organization, going salad wraps, burritos, quesadillas, Sadly, many animals are alive and Elon Musk has certainly (this interview, conducted by Sanders doesn’t approve. vegan has many benefits including rice bowls, etc. Try cutting down conscious when being slaughtered, proven himself to be a journalist Kara Swisher on the Regardless of what you reducing your risk of developing the portions of meat and increasing as mentioned by PETA. Each controversial figure in the last New York Times podcast, was think, this week’s episode of cancer, improving heart and your intake of fruits, vegetables, year, more and more people are couple of years. He has made done in September of last year), Saturday Night Live is bound to vascular health, blood sugar and whole grains. Slowly eliminate becoming vegan, as organizations A fresh tossed garden salad provided by the UMass Boston dining commons. anti-union remarks, tweeting that Musk said that he would refuse to be interesting. By the time this control, and reducing body weight meat from one meal each day, until like PETA are working towards Photo by Maya Martinez / Mass Media Staff. employees who formed a union take it. article comes out, it will have and risk of obesity. A vegan diet you get used to it. For example, you spreading awareness about animal for your health, or for animals, vegan. Share your story. would lose their stock options. His defenders would call him already aired. Whether nothing usually consists of a combination might want to try eating a vegan cruelty. The PETA organization you have the power to change the References: When his child was born last year, a genius inventor. Pete Davidson, happens or something major sends of grains, vegetables, fruits, plant breakfast, to begin with. Some continues to inspire people to world, simply by changing what’s [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] he named the baby X Æ A-12. in his aforementioned comments the show crashing into a brick foods, and nuts. Instead of eating ideas for a vegan breakfast are become vegan through their on your plate.” This goes to show California officials then told him on Musk, claimed that he “... wall (metaphorically speaking, of processed foods and red meats, toast, blueberry muffins, pancakes, article “Being Vegan: Healthy that we can change the world one that he could not name the baby makes the Earth better kinda course), the discussion caused by vegans get their protein from smoothies, oatmeal, porridge, etc. and Humane” which includes a step at a time, just by making little X Æ A-12, as it didn’t adhere to and makes cool things and sends the host is well worth having. foods like tofu, beans, and lentils. Next, move towards incorporating powerful statement: “Whether you changes in our everyday routines. their guidelines of permissible people to Mars.” They would also A decrease in saturated fats can plant-based foods in lunch and go vegan for the environment, Take a step towards becoming Opinions 12 USG is not a “bubble” Matthew Reiad Additionally, there are three the article, the president and vice Opinions Editor additional positions, voted by president claim the following: the student body, including Vice The “‘USG Bubble’ is a term The following article President, President, and Student recognized by certain students represents my own opinion and Trustee. USG is a transparent on campus, especially those who does not represent the opinions organization that, in my opinion, are involved as student leaders of any organization I may be a is one the easiest organizations to across campus or part of clubs, member of. join on campus. Although USG is centers, organizations, and even I must preface this by saying really easy to join, with Senators recognized by some folks within that I am currently a senator almost always able to join with no USG.” (2) I find the claim made of the Undergraduate Student barrier to entry such as contested here to be problematic and Government and have served in elections, it is sad to see the incorrect. USG is truly one of the the Senate since the beginning of outgoing administration claim easiest organizations to join on this school year. I do not write this that USG is some kind of bubble. campus, as elections are widely as a personal attack on anyone, According to Merriam publicized and students across rather I write this to disprove Webster, a bubble is defined as, the university are encouraged to incorrect and unsubstantiated “an enclosed or isolated sphere run. Certainly, from the outside claims made by former President of experience or activity in looking in, any organization can Janrey Javier and Vice President which the like-minded members seem like a “bubble,” however Jaely Pereira. Additionally, as of a homogeneous community that is the nature of organizations: the Opinions Editor of The Mass support and reinforce their People congregating based on Media, I did help the President shared opinions.” (1) This mutual interests and hobbies. You and Vice President make edits to term is generally used in a wouldn’t call the video game club their article, however, I remained political context, to describe a a “bubble” because they happen impartial and edited their article “conservative bubble” or a “liberal to stick to themselves. In the same to ensure clarity. bubble,” however, it can be used way, people within organizations Depiction of a city in a bubble.Illustration by Delaney Hooper / Mass Media The University of for a company or organization. In tend to have similar interests and Staff. Massachusetts Boston the context used by the outgoing a certain friend group. Integrating bubble and their election as people USG by writing an article in the Undergraduate Student president and vice president with USG is extremely easy, and from outside the organization school newspaper bashing the Government is the student-led of USG, they claim, without after a year of being a senator, I proves exactly my point. USG is very organization they served. governing body that represents evidence, that the Undergraduate was elected to chair of the budget welcoming and although it may Moving forward, I can assure the interests of the Undergraduate Student Government is a bubble. and finance committee. And, seem cliquey from the outside students, from incoming freshmen Student Body. Next school While their election to lead USG although I joined USG knowing looking in, upon joining USG to the seniors of UMass Boston, year, we will have 21 Senators nearly entirely undermines their very few people, and despite an you will find the most motivated USG welcomes you, we have no representing the student body. entire perspective, it is important online-only mode of meeting, I students who want what is best for reservations and continuously Among the senators, three to unpack exactly the claim they quickly made many friends. the student body. And although work to ensure UMass Boston is are elected within internal made and understand exactly Despite what the former we thank the President and Vice a better place for students of all elections to chair three different their view on the matter. President and Vice President may President for their year of service, races, ethnic backgrounds, sexual committees within USG. In the opening paragraphs of have you believe, USG is not a it is unfortunate to see them leave orientation, and sexual identity. Why capitalists love capitalism

Matthew Reiad still a strong voice in support of labor that they employ. If we ever Capitalism is impossible to fix. However, because of everyone’s Opinions Editor this economic system, despite want to reform this economic While this may seem greed, the food is finished, and Capitalism has a very its apparent social and moral system, we must understand pessimistic, there is sound logic people die of starvation. Despite shaky reputation, particularly complications. However, some a basic principle, the wealthy to the statement I just made. attempts to ration, violence still in the modern age with socialist of the loudest supporters of Americans in our nation will fight The systems in place, political, occurs. Although this movie economies taking over much capitalism are capitalists who with every dollar in their offshore social, and economic, are all is extremely violent, with of Europe. However, there is directly benefit from the cheap bank account to ensure that they controlled by wealthy Americans. scenes depicting murder and are able to continue to get rich off From our social media sites to cannibalism, it is an extremely the backs of working Americans. our banks, to our technology thought provoking social One of the most famous to the required textbooks we commentary. This movie shows capitalists of the modern age have to buy from greedy private that although people understood is billionaire investor Warren education companies that gouge the system was broken and they Buffet. As of the time of this students because the textbooks must ration, they were unable to writing, Buffet has a net worth of are required. All these systems show mercy to the levels below over $100 billion, (1) according are controlled by wealthy, greedy because when they were below, to CNBC. Buffet currently ranks individuals, corporations, or they were not shown any mercy. in the Top 10 richest people on corrupt politicians who take As we look for ways to Earth. In a recent meeting, Buffet money from such entities. We all alleviate the pains capitalism gave his remarks on capitalism. benefit from capitalism, and even has caused, let us ignore the fake He said, “capitalism has worked the lowest middle-class people attempts of socialist politicians incredibly well, especially for benefit from the cheap goods to seem populists. Politicians the capitalists. ... The world can we are able to produce through are corrupt, and even the ones change in very, very dramatic cheap labor that save them from that seem to only take small ways” (2). However, this is not slipping into poverty. Despite donations, still live luxurious the first time Buffet has given this, capitalism is deeply flawed, lives while everyone else positive remarks for capitalism. and those who benefit from the suffers. Capitalism is not perfect, In early 2020, he gave strong system, including ourselves, however, I fear increasing support for the economic system. will find it difficult to remodel government regulations and But he also mentioned that a system that gave us the most creating a socialist economy capitalism doesn’t help those advanced technology directly at may cause inequality just as we struggling in society. He stated our fingertips. have seen in capitalism. It is only in February of 2020, “We ought I will conclude by mentioning through radical social change that to do better by the people that a gory but extremely important we can truly upend and improve get left behind by our capitalist social commentary movie titled the system. Know this, you with system...I don’t think we should “The Platform.” This movie is a your iPhone, Starbucks cup, kill the capitalist system in the social, political, and economic driving your car to school: You process” (3). Despite Buffet’s commentary that condemns contribute to capitalism (not to claims that we should ensure capitalism and man’s greed. In mention global warming). We capitalism works for the weakest short, there are prisoners who live are all the problem. Not just Jeff of society, his huge accumulation in a vertical building, and food is Bezos, or Elon Musk, no, we all of wealth seems to suggest that brought down once a day, floor by contribute to these issues. someone else should help, not floor. At the top, there is plenty Warren Buffet. Illustration by Delaney Hooper / Mass Media Staff. him. of food, enough for everyone.