February 21, 2020

THE GATEPOST Framingham State’s award-winning independent student newspaper since 1932

Volume 88 • Issue 16

FSUgatepost.com

February 21, 2020

Chris Walsh Center opens at FSU

Thomas Maye / THE GATEPOST

A ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated the grand opening of the Chris Walsh Center at FSU Feb. 13.

News SGA pg. 3 RAMS 101 pg. 5

Graphic by Kathleen Moore

Opinions VEGETARIANISM pg. 6 “GUN GIRL" pg. 7

Arts & Features “FUNERAL” REVIEW pg. 8 GREEN DAY REVIEW pg. 10

Sports

Donald Halsing / THE GATEPOST WOMEN’S BASKETBALL pg. 13 PLAYERS OF THE WEEK pg. 17

By Thomas Maye Opinions Editor Parent advocates, administrators, faculty, and local legislators celebrated the grand opening of The Chris Walsh Center for Educators and Families of MetroWest Feb. 13.

The center was created after a group of parents went to Rep. Chris Walsh in 2015 to voice concerns about the difficulties of navigating the special education system, particularly for gifted students, those with disabilities, or those with unmet needs.

At the unveiling, speakers commended Walsh’s tireless efforts spearheading the project, which col-

leagues said he devoted himself to until his death from cancer in 2018.

Sheryl Goldstein, a parent advocate, said she felt overwhelmed by the complex system for special education students. She said she received significant resistance from administration at her child’s school, and did not know where to turn for help.

Fellow parent advocate Gail Palmer said she had to learn the process of having her child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) implemented “the hard way. “[Many parents] don’t understand some of the basic rights your children have with an IEP,” she said.

An IEP is a legally binding docu-

ment.

“The idea [of this center] is that now, not every parent has to learn the process themselves. … The road won’t be so bumpy.”

A group of parents with similar concerns led by Goldstein and Palmer came together demanding change.

James Cressey, coordinator of the Walsh Center and professor of education at FSU, said Walsh had an active role in the project from the moment these parents put their issues on the table, consistently participating in meetings and striving to educate himself on topics of parental

See WALSH CENTER page 4

Dirty Cleats: The Quest for a Four-Peat

By Liam Gambon Sports Editor

Winning three-straight MASCAC Championships is great, but how about a fourth?

That’s what the Framingham State Softball team is aiming for this year.

“To win the MASCAC again, everyone is going to have to be a leader no matter what age they are or position they play. Everyone on our team has an important role,” sophomore standout Laela Pepin said. “With everyone giving their best effort and fulfilling their role, we definitely could find ourselves winning a MASCAC championship.”

Last season, the Rams won the MASCAC regular season title and made it through the playoffs to the

final day where they played Fitchburg State and Bridgewater State for a shot at the MASCAC championship.

They won each of their first two games of the day and then played against Bridgewater for the title.

The game finished with Framingham forcing the matchup to end in only the fifth inning as they won 8-0 and collected their third trophy in a row.

“Winning the MASCAC three times in a row has been such an exciting experience,” senior captain Kaela Sherman said. “Last year we played three games in one day to win the ship and it was a day I probably won’t ever forget.”

A standout performance from the game came from starting ace Kelsi Gunarathne who tossed a shutout.

This season, however, the Rams will be without Gunarathne as she graduated last year.

So, the question that needs to be asked is, “Who takes the mound now?”

“We have two freshmen, Shannon Ward and Ally Moran, and a sophomore Laela Pepin who did not pitch because of an injury,” Coach Larry Miller said. “They will see a bulk of the innings and I’m excited to see what they are going to do.”

Pepin hit for a .343 average last season and stood out as a freshman due to her speed and skill as a utility player.

Now with the prospect of stepping onto the mound this season, she will

See DIRTY CLEATS page 14

INSIDE: OP/ED 6 • ARTS & FEATURES 8 • SPORTS 13

NEWS

2 | FEBRUARY 21, 2020

Editorial Board

Gatepost Interview

Editor-in-Chief Ashley Wall Associate Editor Cara McCarthy News Editors Donald Halsing Evan Lee Asst. News Editor Leighah Beausoleil Arts & Features Editors Brennan Atkins Robert Johnson Jr. Asst. Arts & Features Editor Jared Graf Entertainment Correspondent Noah Barnes Opinions Editor Thomas Maye Columnist McKenzie Ward Sports Editors Liam Gambon Sara Senesac Asst. Sports Editor Carlos Silva Design Editor Kathleen Moore Asst. Photos Editor Caroline Gordon Copy Editor Lauren Paolini Staff Writers James Barraford Mackenzie Berube Patrick Brady Kaitlin Burch Sean Cabot Kaitlyn Cullen Abigail Petrucci Alain Puma Abigail Saggio Staff Copy Editors Jordan Bacci Dan Fuentes Staff Photographer Amanda Garny Advisor Dr. Desmond McCarthy Asst. Advisor Elizabeth Banks Administrative Assistant Gwenyth Swain 100 State Street McCarthy Center Room 410 Framingham, MA 01701-9101 Phone: (508) 626-4605 Fax: (508) 626-4097 gatepost@framingham.edu

Jennifer Hyde

Assistant director of international education

By Donald Halsing News Editor

scure dream. My goal is to make that a reality.

What is you educational and professional background?

Framingham State is a second home to me. I studied history here and completed a minor in diversity studies. I graduated from here in 2013, and then, from there, I worked part-time in this office - in International Education. Then, I left for a year and worked as an English teacher in Thailand. I taught English for a year there, I returned, and there was a position here full-time, which I applied for and got. I’ve been working here fulltime as the Assistant Director since 2016. While I’ve been working here, I completed my master’s degree in counseling psychology at FSU.

What career accomplishments are you most proud of?

I’ve been working full-time here since 2016, so this July will be four years. This past January I was awarded the Beacon Award on campus, which is “in recognition of noteworthy contributions and outstanding efforts that have assisted in advancing Inclusive Excellence.” By no means do I take full credit for the diversity of students we have studying abroad. Jane Decatur has created a great program list of affordable options. Once I came into this role, and she wasn’t a single-person office anymore, I was really able to promote, publish, and advertise the opportunities, which has really gained a lot of interest and traction in studying abroad. I think that’s a huge accomplishment for our office. We are going above and beyond in assisting our students.

What is your job like?

The office of International Education is responsible for incoming international students, as well as faculty and scholars. In addition, we work with study abroad students - American students who are interested in studying abroad, from semester programs to short-term programs, so maybe going abroad in the summer for a few weeks. My primary responsibility is to advise students on their study abroad opportunities. In addition, we work with the international students and faculty. I process immigration paperwork for international students to come study here and get their visa to come study here.

Do you think FSU students are interested in studying abroad?

I do. I see the interest. I think the biggest barrier our students face is cost and how to financially afford the experience.

What’s great is that students are able to use most of their financial aid to study abroad for a semester. Jane Decatur, my director, has done a fantastic job of creating a program list of really affordable options that are pretty comparable to what FSU tuition, fees, and housing costs. We try to work with programs that are comparable to here. However, for summer programs or short-term programs, you can’t use federal aid. That can be a barrier for students - to pay out of pocket to go away for a few weeks in the summer. I do see the interest, but I think that cost can be a major factor.

What is it like working with international students from abroad?

It’s such a great experience! I think that the international students bring a new perspective to the classroom.

They’ve learned in different countries.

They’ve learned in different ways.

They’ve experienced different cultures than what our students have here. For them to bring that kind of experience into the classroom is really phenomenal. For the past few years, I’ve set up an international buddy program. FSU students are matched with one of our visiting international students so they can help the student adjust to life here at Framingham and in the U.S., make sure they acclimate well, show them around campus, and show them how to get to Boston if they want to go on the weekend. That’s been a really great program because international students are connected with an American student here right away, and have that kind of peer connection, which is great.

What challenges do you face in the study abroad program?

I find that some students don’t know about our office or don’t know about the opportunities available. Outreach has been a really big focus of mine to try and let students know of the opportunities for them. On a side note, our office works really closely with the Alumni and Development offices, so we have set scholarships for students. This past academic year, our office - in collaboration with Academic Affairs and Alumni issued around $40,000 in scholarships. I think our biggest mission is to let students know of the opportunities.

Although there is interest in studying abroad, I think coming from a smaller state/regional school a lot of our students haven’t travelled that much - including myself when I was a student here. I had never left the country until I was a student here and I went abroad to Italy with my roommate. It opened doors for me. For many of our students here, travelling seems kind of an ob-

Do you have any hobbies?

You would probably not be surprised - I travel often. I’ve been to 25 countries, last I counted. I really love to do anything outdoors, whether it’s a simple walk or a hike. I’ve started skiing more this winter, which was great. I do love some good live music - going to any kind of concert. Personally, I was drawn toward this career because of my interest in diving into different cultures.

Whether it’s going to Cambridge and trying a new restaurant of a new ethnic cuisine, or it’s travelling to Europe, Latin America, or Asia, I just love being out of that comfort zone and trying something new.

What advice do you have for FSU students?

I love the Nike phrase “just do it.”

I think this is the time - as a student whatever your interest may be - go for it! Try it! If it’s a class you maybe think isn’t your cup of tea, but it sparks your interest for some reason, go for it. If it is studying abroad, but you don’t think you can make it work financially, still come in and try it out. Utilize and take advantage of everything the campus has to offer. After you graduate, it’s so much harder to travel and to go to talks like we have here on campus. Connect with your faculty and your advisors here.

They’re such a huge resource. I tell students to make those personal connections with advisors and professors now because they can really help in the long run.

CONNECT WITH DONALD HALSING dhalsing@student.framingham.edu

Police Logs Monday, Feb. 17 19:39 Alarm (Fire/Smoke) Dwight Hall, Athletic Center False Alarm

@TheGatepost | FSUgatepost.com

Donald Halsing / THE GATEPOST

Monday, Feb. 17 20:04 Investigation Dwight Hall, Athletic Center Report Taken

Wednesday, Feb. 19 10:08 Follow-Up Investigation Dwight Circle Assignment Complete

Thursday, Feb. 20 10:29 Police Information FSU Police Dept.

Report Taken

NEWS

FEBRUARY 21, 2020 | 3

SGA approves funding for Fashion Club

By Leighah Beausoleil Asst. News Editor SGA allocated a total of $600 in funding to Fashion Club during its Feb. 18 meeting.

Fashion Club presented two funding requests.

The first request of $100 was for tables themed for St. Patrick’s Day, Easter, and Monday Blues that would sell candy, goodie bags, and scrunchies.

Fashion Club President Kevin Follis said, “We planned on promoting through social media, flyers around campus, club meetings, etc.”

SGA Secretary Lexi Kays asked about using “Easter” as a title for one of the tables.

Sara Gallegos, SGA adviser, said the table name would have to be changed because Easter is a religious holiday.

Fashion Club agreed to change the table name from “Easter” to “Spring.”

The funding request was approved.

The second funding request of $500 was for their “Make it Work” event for March 28.

Fashion Club Treasurer Kara Swanson said, “It’s kind of like a Project Runway style. We’ve put it on. It’s an annual event. All students are welcome to go.”

“It basically starts at 8 a.m. and it goes to 8 p.m., and students just create a garment and then they get judged on that,” she said. “Then we have our winners. We are getting donated prizes. We are asking for $500 for fabric and material.”

Ayanna Ferguson, publicist and recruitment coordinator, asked how they would use the money to provide materials for the event.

Follis said the $500 would “proba-

Fashion Club presented their funding requests to SGA Feb. 18 bly get us a couple stacks of yardage of fabric just because we usually give a couple options because sometimes people aren’t loving what they get.

“We usually give three or four start up choices, and we include finishings, which would be buttons, zippers, threads, etc,” he added.

The request was approved.

After the funding requests were complete, SGA officers gave their reports.

Gallegos announced the launch of you.framingham.edu, a website the University purchased in order for students to engage in three ways.

“There is ‘Thrive,’ which really talks about your health and wellness,” Gallegos said. “There’s ‘Seed,’ which kind of gets at your academics, and then there’s ‘Matter,’ which is talking about engagement, involve-

ment, socializing - that type of thing.

“It’s a huge kind of resource bank for everything that we have on campus that talks to those things. There’s also goal-setting features,” she added.

Olivia Beverlie, student trustee, granted senator McKenzie Ward time to give an update on her position as Open Education Resource (OER) ambassador.

“I think we are fourth in the state for OER pledges, which is fantastic,” Ward said.

“I am also looking for students to talk to about OER and their experience with buying textbooks, specifically the financial burden that buying textbooks puts on specific students,” she said.

“If you know any students [or professors] willing to talk to me that

Kathleen Moore / THE GATEPOST From left to right: Senators Emma Sullivan, McKenzie Ward, Destiny Phaire, and Mariah Farris listened and spoke during the meeting Feb. 18.

Weather

Sunday night Feb. 23 Clear, low near 30. SW winds around 5 mph.

Monday night Feb. 24 40% chance of rain.

Mostly cloudy, low near 35. Light SW winds.

Monday Feb. 24 Mostly sunny, high near 50. SW winds around 5 mph.

Tuesday Feb. 25 60% chance of rain.

Mostly cloudy, high near 50. Light SE winds.

Kathleen Moore / THE GATEPOST would be fantastic,” Ward added.

President Matty Bennet announced “Advocacy Day” for March 2.

Bennet explained Advocacy Day is when “students will go to the State House and advocate for more resources for higher education.”

Beverlie said, “They usually have a keynote speaker who is very well versed in the whole subject about why higher ed. Advocacy Day is important.

“They always have it in the Great Hall of Flags,” she added. “It’s a really great opportunity to be in the State House and work on advocating.

“Also, you have the opportunity to go visit your representatives’ offices and talk to them about why you think it’s important,” she added. “It’s a really good way to get our voices heard on a state level.”

This event is open to all students.

For those who are interested, please contact SGA ahead of time. It is an all-day event.

Bennet also announced the independent Alumni House scholarships that are open to all students.

Although the rock remained in the SGA office, the “U-Rock” award was presented to Senator Paola Bilbraut.

[Editor’s note: McKenzie Ward is a Columnist for The Gatepost.

To contact Ward concerning Open Education Resources, email her at mward8@student.framingham. edu.]

CONNECT WITH LEIGHAH BEAUSOLEIL lbeausoleil@student.framingham.edu

Forecast provided by the National Weather Service www.weather.gov Tuesday night Feb. 25 Wednesday night Feb. 26 50% chance of rain.

Mostly cloudy, low near Mostly cloudy, low 35. E winds around 5 near 35. Light E winds. mph.

Wednesday Feb. 26 30% chance of rain.

Partly sunny, high near 45. NE winds around 5 mph.

Thursday Feb. 27 40% chance of rain and snow. Mostly cloudy, high near 40. NE winds around 10 mph.

FRAMINGHAM STATE UNIVERSITY’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SINCE 1932 | FSUGATEPOST.COM

4 | FEBRUARY 21, 2020

Walsh Center

NEWS

Continued from page 1

concerns.

Legislators working alongside Walsh said this passion defined his character throughout his career serving Framingham since he was first elected in 2010 until he died two years ago.

House Speaker Robert DeLeo said, “A group of parents approached him about their concerns in 2015, and less than five years later, the center has become a reality. And I can tell you, from my years in public life, this expedited timeline is very great.”

Walsh had lived “all over the world” with his family in the Navy, but Framingham was the home he cherished, DeLeo added.

“As he fell to his illness, Chris remained steadfastly loyal to his district, keeping abreast of local concerns and fighting for key items,” DeLeo said. “He didn’t want to talk about his illness. He was always talking about his district, and he was always talking about ideas on how to make it better.

“Chris was a gentle soul - he brought to his work a rare combination of grace and diligence,” he said.

“No matter what the challenge was, Chris found beauty.”

Among other legislators involved in the process, DeLeo thanked Senate President Karen Spilka for her work on the Walsh Center project.

She made it to the unveiling right on the heels of passing Senate Bill 2519, which is meant to provide improved access to mental health care across the state.

Rep. Jack Lewis said he “will always remember how, literally days before his passing,” Walsh spoke about how much representing Framingham meant to him.

Rep. Maria Robinson, who was elected to succeed Walsh, said, “Nobody can replace Chris. I am his successor, and I’m trying very hard to fill those shoes by running as fast as I possibly can.”

Walsh’s legacy will live on through the Center’s growing body of resources for the MetroWest families he devoted himself to serving.

The center has already hosted a free webinar lecture on Blackboard Collaborate about behavioral intervention and support, which recieved over 100 viewers.

The center will host an additional webinar titled “Dyslexia Research and Screening Practices” on March 3, featuring Harvard Medical School graduate and Boston Children’s Hospital researcher Dr. Nadine Gaab.

On April 29, Dr. MaryGrace Stewart, president of the Massachusetts Association for Gifted Education (MAGE) - who played a part in founding the center - will host another webinar called “Supporting Twice-Exceptional Learners at School and at Home.

“One of the reasons why the Walsh Center is so crucial is because only 4% of our schools have programs for gifted children, and that’s a lot less than there are gifted kids,” Stewart said.

She added she frequently gets

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Rep. Maria Robinson spoke at the Chris Walsh Center opening ceremony Feb. 13. desperate phone calls from parents whose gifted children became frustrated, acted out, and shut down in school due to their needs not being met by traditional educational models. In fact, she said four families told her their children were suicidal because they couldn’t stand being in

nity organizations and host parent/ guardian support groups - times and locations to be announced - along with professional development sessions and a library of print and digital resources.

The “floating center,” as Cressey called it, will host events at various

“Chris was a gentle soul - he brought to his work a rare combination of grace and diligence ... No matter what the challenge was, Chris found beauty.”

-Robert DeLeo, House Speaker

school.

Families of low socioeconomic status and people of color struggle particularly, without the resources to afford academic enrichment or advanced classes.

“It’s such a great thing, because right now there’s nowhere like this in the state of Massachusetts,” she said, adding the physical space of the Walsh Center will significantly help MAGE support parents and educators through school advocacy, parent coaching, and professional development for teachers.

Though all 200 ticket spots for the webinars have already been taken, Cressey said Blackboard granted a request Feb. 12 for an expanded server that can support up to 500 viewers, which is quickly filling.

Cressey said the Walsh Center hopes to network with local commu-

locations throughout Framingham while the advisory committee works to find a permanent site.

As they adjust, the advisory board is seeking new members to “fill in gaps in expertise,” he said, including an FSU student representative.

Students interested can apply now by emailing chriswalshcenter@ framingham.edu. “We hope to find a student who has experience working or volunteering in schools, especially with experience in early intervention or Pre-K, K-12 special education,” Cressy said, adding the center encourages students from “diverse backgrounds” to join.

The position would be a two-year commitment, with the representative attending two to three meetings per academic year.

Along with internships, the center will also offer a graduate student

Thomas Maye / THE GATEPOST assistant position for 15 hours a week for the 2020-21 academic year.

Assistants will receive two course vouchers and a $2,500 stipend each semester. Interested, experienced applicants can apply by March 2 on the Graduate Assistantship page on the FSU website, located within the Graduate Studies section.

Currently, freshman Leighah Beausoleil and senior Hannah Ricci work as a center assistant and a psychology intern, respectively.

Framingham Mayor Yvonne Spicer, who bonded with Walsh soon after announcing her plans to run for her current position, said she was honored to see his project come to life, adding she was in “deep conversations” with people interested in establishing a trail in Framingham named in his memory.

Spicer said there is currently a shortage of teachers able to meet the special needs of diverse populations, particularly when it comes to special-needs children for whom English is not their first language.

She is hopeful the resources at the Walsh Center will be a valuable tool in increasing educational access for all in years to come.

FSU President F. Javier Cevallos said the founding of the center is a proud moment in the history of the University.

“It is so special for us to have a center dedicated to the needs of children both in special needs, gifted, and problem [students]. We are - and we’re very proud of saying this - the very first public normal school in the country.”

[Editor’s Note: Leighah Beausoleil is Asst. News Editor of The Gatepost.]

CONNECT WITH THOMAS MAYE tmaye1@student.framingham.edu

NEWS

FEBRUARY 21, 2020 | 5

Rams 101 run as a pilot course for first-year students

By Kaitlin Burch Staff Writer Rams 101 is a first-year seminar that ran as a pilot for the second year in a row this past fall for freshman first-year students.

Sarah Mulhall Adelman, history professor, explained unlike Foundations - the existing first-year seminar - Rams 101 focuses on an “interest-

so while you’re going through the material, you’re also integrating the academic skills that would help a student be successful.”

Mulhall Adelman explained students have the choice between taking Foundations or Rams 101 but do not take both because, “it accomplishes many of the similar goals.”

She said the Rams 101 seminar aided freshmen in their academic ca-

“I found most of the starting information useful, especially to somebody who is new to college.”

-Grace Thompson, freshman ing topic or theme.”

The list of topics students could choose from last fall were, “The Case for Cannabis,” “Slavery in Fact, Fiction, and Film,” “What is Love? Case Studies in Western History,” “Debating Commemoration – Monuments, Holidays, and How We Remember the Past,” “Migrations and Connections in a Global Era,” and “Better Living Through Chemistry?”

She said, “The idea is that it is a combination of that chance to do a deep dive in that seminar format, combined with the transition to college.”

Alexander Hartwiger, English professor, said, “The idea is that all in one space, you have a lesson that’ll focus on note taking [for example],

reers - helping with note taking and study skills, as well as introducing them to resources on campus.

Aside from learning about the main topic the course is focused on, Rams 101 “includes efforts to integrate new students into the FSU community by finding opportunities for discussion and engagement with their peers in the course as well as their Rams mentor,” said Mulhall Adelman.

She explained the Rams mentor is similar to a Foundations mentor in the sense a Rams mentor is an older student who can help freshmen students register for classes and get them involved in clubs or organizations on campus.

However, Mulhall Adelman said

Graphic by Kathleen Moore

the Rams mentors help freshmen with more than just the settling into college aspect of the course. They also help with academics.

She said the Rams 101 mentors function as supplemental instructors.

Mulhall Adelman explained supplemental instructors are, “students who have either taken that class or been successful in similar classes.”

The mentors perform the same role, attending the Rams 101 course and also holding out-of-class meeting times for additional help.

Hartwiger said, Rams 101 “allows for a deep dive [into the topic] so if students are interested in particular topics that the Rams are offering, it’s a good chance to get really immersed in it.”

Mulhall Adelman added, unlike Foundations, Rams 101 is held during the same lecture as a class from the student’s schedule and is taught by the professor for that course.

“I would 100% recommend a Rams 101 course to any upcoming freshman. It’s definitely a course that needs to be taken especially when you’re first starting college because it will really help get you prepared for what is to come,” Teabo said.

Other students who took Foundations had very different outlooks on their course.

Freshman Corlene Guenard said she only chose Foundations because it worked best with her schedule. “I don’t think I learned anything from taking it. We just made arts and crafts, learned how to properly email teachers, and we were given lots of essays to write which weren’t useful.

“I definitely think Rams 101 would have been more interesting or useful because it has a topic,” she said.

Freshman Mollie Pimental said, “Honestly - Foundations - I feel like it was a pointless course.

“It did help. I learned about the Career Center and more about the

“Honestly - Foundations - I feel like it was a pointless course.”

-Mollie Pimental, freshman The program is run by Mulhall Adelman and Hartwiger.

Freshman Grace Thompson was pleased with her experience in Rams 101. She said, “I found most of the starting information useful, especially to somebody who is new to college.

“I would [recommend Rams 101 to an incoming freshman] if they are interested in the topic, being offered because it is extra work based on that topic so it is harder than a traditional seminar class,” she said.

Freshman Emily Teabo agreed that her Rams 101 experience was a success. “The Rams 101 course that I took was very helpful.

“It made me understand what I would be doing in school and how much free time I would need to set aside for studying and homework, so I could succeed in my classes,” she said. “Not only did it help me improve my studying habits, but it also helped me manage my time better.

Health Center, but that’s all I got from it really,” she said. “But the grade I got in Foundations was added onto my marketing grade, which was cool because it helped boost my marketing grade.

“I also liked Foundations because I felt like I made friends in there because you got to know the kids in your marketing class a little bit better,” she said.

Freshman Yvonne Barrowman, who also took Foundations, said, “I don’t really think I benefited from anything just because we did a lot of pointless activities. But it was nice knowing I had a different teacher outside of academics that I could go to for help.”

Mulhall Adelman said both Rams 101 and Foundations will be options for next fall’s first-years as well.

CONNECT WITH KAITLIN BURCH kburch@student.framingham.edu

Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs steps down

By Evan Lee News Editor Angela Salas, provost and vice president of academic affairs, has decided to step down from her position at Framingham State University effective immediately.

Her departure, which came after “much thought, reflection, and discussion,” was announced yesterday, Feb. 19, in a campus-wide email sent

by President F. Javier Cevallos.

“It’s vital that any employment

relationship be mutually beneficial, and we have collectively realized this was not in our best interests,” he said in the email.

“I wish Dr. Salas nothing but the best as she moves forward with future career opportunities,” he added.

Salas was named provost and vice president of Academic Affairs for FSU April 25, 2019.

She is no longer on campus and The Gatepost was unable to reach her for comment.

Cevallos said Salas was a “won-

derful addition” to the campus and a “hard worker,” in an interview with The Gatepost. But, “perhaps not the right fit.”

“She decided she wanted to persue other opportunities,” he added.

Cevallos said he will be in touch with updates on how the University will move forward together from this point.

“I will have a plan to share with the campus hopefully next week, if not the week after,” he told The Gatepost in an email.

Cevallos explained he will be emailing the entire campus community with these updates.

At time of publication, The Gatepost is still reaching out for more information.

[Editor’s Note: Ashley Wall, editor-in-chief for The Gatepost, contributed to this article.]

CONNECT WITH EVAN LEE elee5@student.framingham.edu

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6 | FEBRUARY 21, 2020

OP/ED

OP/ED

THE GATEPOST EDITORIAL

Fill your passports, empty your assumptions College is the time to broaden your horizons, experience life outside your hometown, and expose yourself to new cultures.

While these all of these experiences can be fulfilled on campus, a great opportunity to consider is one of the many study abroad programs our University offers.

Through study abroad, students can immerse themselves in entirely new environments and cultures while simultaneously earning course credit at their home institutions.

Chances are, if you talk to other students who have studied in different countries, they’ll say it was the best experience of their life.

But, studying abroad is more than just a four month “vacation” from your university - it truly is the chance of a lifetime.

Depending on the destination you choose, you could be staying with host families and attending college in another part of the world - which grants the space to grow as a student, person and change your cultural mindset.

Additionally, the education you receive abroad places a more diverse perspective on your learning, allowing you to grow as a student more than you otherwise would if you remained in Framingham during the entirety of your college career.

The best part of it all?

It may be more affordable than you think.

Expanding your horizons doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. With careful budgeting, just about anyone can take a trip abroad - and FSU offers a variety of resources to help along the way.

From scholarships to school loans and grants, FSU has the resources to help students afford their dream semester abroad.

FSU offers foreign exchange programs with the same cost as if you lived at Framingham State for a semester - but instead of getting stuck in the elevators in Towers, you could be surfing in Thailand or hiking in Nepal.

There are also outside organizations and programs that provide the ability to travel in groups or with other local students, if you wish to plan your trip individually or with friends who do not attend the same university as you.

The benefits of studying abroad are worth the cost. Traveling provides the freedom to take unique courses, gain career experience, and engage in communities that would otherwise not be accessible near Framingham.

It also provides the opportunity to study a foreign language in the local area. The chance to gain fluency in a foreign language, which is life-changing in its own right, is consistently ranked as a valuable skill by employers.

The chance to interact and meet a vast range of people around the world is unlike any other, and will open your mind to understanding that the world is much bigger than our small Framingham bubble.

Whether it’s studying fashion design in Milan or marine biology in Belize, the possibilities of learning are endless, and can be personalized to your unique needs and interests.

According to the University of California Merced, 96% of students who studied abroad gained increased self-confidence after their trip, 89% “reported that study abroad facilitated a greater tolerance for ambiguity,” and 97% felt more mature.

Living abroad encourages you to step outside your comfort zone in an unfamiliar place.

It makes difficult situations that you leave behind in Massachusetts seem much smaller in the grand scheme of things.

It provides students with the ability to connect with future employers and friends from all over the world.

If you are considering learning abroad, we encourage you to reach out to the Study Abroad department to discuss what resources are available to you.

With nearly 200 students from FSU who participated in the study abroad program last year, there will also be a fellow traveler around to share one in a lifetime experiences with.

Have Letter to the Editor?

Have a question for Gatepost Guidance?

Feel free to email it to: gatepost@framingham.edu Letters should be approximately 500 words.

We look forward to hearing from you! @TheGatepost | FSUgatepost.com

Growing up vegetarian

By Caroline Gordon Staff Writer Seven-year-old me, with curly hair up to my ears and buck teeth, stared down confused at a sizable portion of cod my mom had cooked for me.

“Mom, was this fishey taken out of the ocean?”

“No honey, this is not real fish, it’s fake. Don’t worry, no fishey’s were harmed to make your dinner.”

Biggest lie of my life. How naïve did my mother think I was?

From that day on, at just 7 years of age, I made a decision that would alter my life forever - I decided to go vegetarian.

The act of eating something that once had a heartbeat sent shivers down my spine - and still does.

I dabbled in vegetarianism for years throughout my late childhood, then finally made the full switch to the beneficial diet at the end of middle school.

Throughout my adolescence, I was constantly asked why I was vegetarian.

To me, the answer was simple - eating dead animals was wrong.

Being a budding health nut, I did my research.

I got further interested in vegetarianism because of the health benefits such as: reducing the chance of obesity, lowering the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and lessening the odds of cancer.

The aroma of buffalo and A1 sauce filled my nose at summer barbeques, as my grandfather is a retired butcher and grill master.

The temptation was real.

My mother relentlessly begged me to eat turkey sandwiches for protein.

Friends tried influencing me to eat chicken nuggets at McDonalds after field hockey practice.

Nonetheless, I persevered with my new-found knowledge of the health advantages.

Despite growing up in an Italian family with a butcher patriarch, I stayed true to my beliefs, as I was a stubborn girl with a passion for animals and taking care of my body.

I still am.

Most say being vegetarian is a boring diet with scarce options for protein.

It’s not.

Kidney beans, tofu, tempeh, edamame and chickpeas are excellent sources of protein while being distinct in flavor - spicing up any meal.

Years passed, and what started off as a diet change, became a lifestyle I swear by.

During my life, I have followed a path my heart knows is right, no matter the opinions of others.

Making the choice to abide by vegetarianism taught me how strong willed I am.

Fast forward several years, and I am sitting in the FSU dining commons, with a few girls who would become my closest friends here.

Two are vegetarian and one is vegan.

After observing our lifestyles and spending copious amounts of time with us, two other friends became vegetarian.

Never have I been surrounded by this many friends who share the same values as I. I am proud of myself for believing in a cause that saves numerous animals and keeps my body healthy.

OP/ED

FEBRUARY 21, 2020 | 7

‘Gun Girl’ protestors are only shooting themselves in the foot

By Thomas Maye Opinions Editor

I am not a fan of Kaitlin Bennett.

A conservative social media darling, “Gun Girl” became famous in 2018 for attending her college graduation at Kent State University with an AR-15.

The same university, I might add, where four students were killed in a 1970 police shooting during a protest over U.S. bombings of Cambodia.

A consistent fan of social media feuds and ad-hominem attacks, she’s become a laughingstock for several bizarre videos showing her harassing students at her alma mater with invasive, transphobic questions.

Critics have come to see her love of controversy and hurtful rhetoric, including her insinuations that trans women are perverted, as emblematic of America’s toxic outrage culture particularly among the MAGA-loving crowd Bennett courts.

It’s true bad behavior, like Bennett’s transphobia, deserves to be called out - but not all protests are created equal.

After arriving at Ohio State University last week to film more reaction-provoking videos, she was swarmed by an angry crowd who threw water and toilet paper at her, shouted elementary-school insults about rumors she pooped her pants at a party, and effectively chased her off campus.

Several commenters have argued bullying Bennett is justified, considering she has a history of name-calling and immaturity in her videos and profiles.

Frankly, I’m not very concerned about Bennett’s feelings.

My problem with the bullying mentality is that it simply will not work in reducing the political venom Bennett relies upon to stay relevant.

Responding to fire with fuel encourages the behavior protestors are outraged over, while dissuading people who may want to change the culture of aggression from engaging in our current political conversations.

Bennett’s camp believes they are the sole torches of reason against a world hell-bent on policing morality and suppressing disagreement.

These beliefs won’t be changed by a mob of students running a dissenter off campus while proudly shouting expletives and waving middle fingers on camera.

Supporters of Bennett’s trolling have already made up their minds, well beyond the point of persuasion - and engaging in their childish rhetoric will do nothing but serve as encouragement for further vitriol.

A more moderate observer, mean-

while, isn’t likely to view the horde chanting schoolyard taunts at a woman, invading her personal space, and throwing toilet paper at her as rational.

And undecided, apolitical individuals, worn out by the constant bickering and hissing on the news, will likely stick their heads further in the sand to muffle the screams of the crowd.

The childishness of these protestors simply exacerbates the tribalism they claim to oppose - an attitude indicative of a broader trend of hypocritical, self-defeating toxicity on both sides of the aisle.

Critics should stop engaging with the banshees and pundits, and start working to uphold the values of peace and tolerance they’ve spent so much time fighting for.

If people are tired of the petulant immaturity that has infected our political sphere, why are they actively contributing to it?

As a culture, we already have enough undirected rage to last several lifetimes.

Don’t let the smoke and embers melt your sanity.

In times as fiery as these, we need a cool head now more than ever.

Campus Conversations

If you had the opportunity to study abroad, where would you travel and why?

By Evan Lee and Leighah Beausoleil

“Ghana. Because I would like to live there permanently, but I’d also like to visit first and experience what it’s like before I move.”

-Elinam Kumahia, senior

“Scotland. I’ve always been interested in their culture. I think the way they differentiate themselves from England is interesting.”

-Lucas Lemos, senior

“Puerto Rico. I have family there, so it’d be nice to visit.”

-Chyna Malik, junior

“Ireland. I’ve always wanted to go and I have a strong Irish heritage.”

-Richard McKeen, senior

“Japan. I just think it’s colorful and fun, it’s a unique place to go with creative ideas and tech.”

-Christopher Gibbons, freshman

“Spain. I went to Barcelona and it was lit, so I’d like to go back.”

-Eli Pere, sophomore

Op/Ed submissions reflect the opinions of their authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of The Gatepost or its staff.

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8 | FEBRUARY 21, 2020

ARTS & FEATURES

ARTS & FEATURES

Lil Wayne does not mince punchlines on ‘Funeral’

By Jared Graf Assistant Arts & Features Editor A little more than a year after delivering the long overdue and highly anticipated fifth installment of “Tha Carter” series, Lil Wayne returns in rare form and takes fans to his funeral.

“Funeral” is the 13th studio album from the rap veteran - but his first that sounds like a mixtape front to back.

Elegant piano keys and Weezy’s signature lighter flick give way to relaxed vocals on the album’s self-titled introduction. The beat, along with Wayne’s tone and pitch, progresses into a bombastic, yet cinematic opener for what seems like a promising project.

However, less than five songs in, it’s apparent there’s no clear direction nor concept - just 24 tracks worth of mundane, disjointed metaphors and punchlines that feel regrettably expected from Wayne as of recently.

“Mama Mia” showcases a flow and instrumental that sounds as if it were born in a “Dedication 6” session. It’s not bad, but it’s not good either. The rhymes are mindless and seemingly disposable, leaving the song with limited replay value.

Even with a star-studded cast on “I Do It,” Wayne fails to contribute anything exciting or worthwhile. Lil Baby sounds unenthused, while Big Sean is on damage control - salvaging what he can on the hook.

The Adam Levine assisted “Trust Nobody” is Weezy and the Maroon 5 frontman’s attempt at creating a radio hit to add to their vast catalogue, but the duo falls short. What could have been a single in 2013 sounds out of place on “Funeral,” as Wayne’s meaningless verses add more disarray to an already cluttered project.

Lines such as, “If you out there in the streets and you’ve been looking for me / When you find me, tell me, ‘I said I’ve been looking for me,’” are confusing, nonsensical, and crowd an otherwise decent track.

Aside from some of the dull lyrics, Wayne’s main issue is the production - put simply it’s unappealing. Songs like “Clap for Em,” “T.O.,” and “Bing James” are one-dimensional, outdated, and feel as if they’ve been created a hundred times before.

“Bing James” is backed by a half-hearted verse from Jay Rock and production so obscure and unbearable it makes for more of an ear sore than anything else.

In fact, it’s the first time Jay Rock

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actually sounds … bad.

Wayne is able to redeem himself with his efforts on “Bastard (Satan’s Kid),” which displays some of the most intriguing wordplay on the album. The track’s concept is original and well executed, but the bass-heavy beat just doesn’t work for Weezy.

Yes, Lil Wayne can still rap. He proves that throughout the project on multiple songs without hooks or choruses.

But anyone who watched his Drink Champs interview can attest to the fact Tunechi is extremely - at times painfully - out of touch. He’s reached a point in his career where he needs guidance selecting beats, and that’s perfectly OK. Two of the album’s best songs, “Piano Trap” and “Mahogany,” were unsurprisingly produced by long-time Weezy collaborator Mannie Fresh. The latter features a beat reminiscent of “A Milli” and happens to be the most thrilling song on the album.

Amongst fast-paced wordplay and seemingly endless puns, Wayne exerts a “No Ceilings” type of energy, spitting bars like “you Shady like ‘8 Mile,’” and “I’m a Libra, I weigh it out,” with a cer-

conceivable. Hopefully what seems like a lack of inspiration doesn’t turn into something much worse.

On a lighter note, Weezy sounds

“Not many artists can remain relevant for nearly three decades and continue to have an output like Wayne.”

- Jared Graf

tain bravado that’s absent from most other songs.

“Piano Trap” features an ignorant, hard-hitting hook that doubles as a cry for help - one of the project’s many warning signs muffled by triumphant production and flawless beat changes.

“I pop me a perc and I smoke me some loud / Oh my God, I’m getting personal now,” and “I’m bout to sip on this syrup til I drown / Oh my God, I’m getting thirstier now” are difficult to hear from anyone, especially someone of Wayne’s stature - but he delivers them in such a mesmerizing way, his dark distress signals become easily diluted.

Fans who watched Lil Wayne’s aforementioned Drink Champs interview were talking about his ‘Percocet’ diamond-encrusted pendant and strung out appearance - making the dreadful reality of an actual funeral

Young Money Records or even StreetRunner - for an entire project, he would have the potential to make some of the most timeless, memorable music of what is already a legendary career.

But he doesn’t have to conform nor listen to anyone’s standards, he’s undoubtedly earned every right to do what he wants, the way he wants.

All things considered, the album could have been worse. Not many artists can remain relevant for nearly three decades and continue to have an output like Wayne.

There are certainly moments he shines on the album - but where there’s sun, there’s shade.

comfortable and at ease doing what he loves on the enjoyable, more laidback tracks “Stop Playin With Me” and “Never Mind.”

Wayne even channels his rock side on “Get Outta My Head” as he screams You can’t win them all, alongside the late XXXTENTACION but Weezy sure puts up a on the hook. The experimental track good fight. marks the fourth collaboration between the two artists, and finds Wayne addressing voices in his head while trading lines with the deceased punkMENU rap pioneer.

XXX’s contribution is composed of vocals previously released in 2017, and although it’s not new material, it does blend well with Wayne’s sound.

I think “Funeral” could have been what Wayne envisioned, had it been kept to the best 12 or 15 tracks. If Weezy linked up and stuck with a single producer like Mannie Fresh - CONNECT WITH JARED GRAF jgraf@student.framingham.edu

Grade: C+

ARTS & FEATURES

Kaitlyn’s Kosmetics Hella hydrated

By Kaitlyn Cullen Staff Writer

Although our planet’s death is starting to crescendo thanks to climate change, winter in New England is still as brutal as ever on our skin.

Whether you’re speeding down a snowcapped mountain or trying not to fall over from the gale wind force on the way to class, you always want to make sure you protect your face.

The easiest way to do this is to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate.

Drink lots of water - roughly 10 cups a day for adults, and even more if you’re sick, exercising, or on special medication.

The next best thing you can do for your skin is to wear sunscreen - yes, even on cloudy days and at night.

Sunscreen contains collagen, a structural protein that is the main component of connective tissue, making up 25-to-35% of all protein in mammals. Slap some on after your preferred daily moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration and protection!

Not only is sunscreen good for you, but putting it on before you apply your makeup will also create a protective barrier between your skin and potentially harmful products in makeup, much like primer.

Speaking of, if you want to do your skin a favor, use extra-hydrating products in the winter - powerful moisturizers with SPF, water-based makeup products, and even vitamins if you want to try them out! Just don’t get yourself caught up in a pyramid scheme.

If your skin is naturally oily but you’re still getting dry spots, try moisturizing before bed. After washing your face, use a strong moisturizer to replenish any lost hydration from harsh skin care products.

Chances are, if your face is acting up and uber-oily in the morning, it’s just compensating for a lack of hydration, which can result in extra production of the natural oils in your skin.

Your usual cosmetics may also be part of the issue.

Matte and full-coverage foundations can

clog pores and suffocate your face, causing your skin to act up. Constantly covering up breakouts WILL take a toll on your skin, and most likely irritate it further.

Take a few days to let your face breath before putting anymore makeup on it, and wash and moisturize it regularly. Remember not to over-do it - you’re supposed to be letting your skin relax.

Neutrogena is a brand well-known for its hydrating and clean products. Their products are also fairly affordable and can be found in your usual drug and department stores. Consider switching your brand with the seasons - or use it full-time if you really like it!

If you’re looking for a completely natural remedy, get yourself a plant baby - the aloe vera plant. They’re wicked low-maintenance and have tons of benefits. The gel from inside the leaf is extremely hydrating, whether it be used to soothe sunburns, mix into a face mask, or even blend in a smoothie if you know what you’re doing. There are tons of recipes online with tutorials to best suit your interests!

You don’t need expensive products or a day at the spa to replenish your skin. Just drink lots of water, wear sunscreen, wash your face regularly - and stay away from those tanning beds! Pay close attention to the changes you notice - good and bad - and adjust your skincare routine accordingly. You know your skin better than anyone else!

Following these tips every day will not only save your skin, but it will reduce the chances of getting wrinkles and dark spots later in life.

Hydrating properly every day will also benefit the rest of your body! You’ll see an improvement in your skin, mood, diet, and even more!

Remember kids, hydrate or die-drate.

CONNECT WITH KAITLYN CULLEN kcullen1@student.framingham.edu

FEBRUARY 21, 2020 | 9

Joan Murtaugh continues her legacy at FSU with vintage clothing donation

By Lauren Paolini Copy Editor A common problem amongst us fashionistas is what to do with our old clothes after we’ve finished our spring cleaning.

Class of 1961 alumna Joan Murtaugh found herself with some beautifully preserved vintage clothing that belonged to her and her mother, and generously decided to donate the pieces to FSU’s Fashion Department.

The Dayton Ohio native moved to Framingham when her father was transferred here with his military unit. Murtaugh said the family took a trip to Framingham to visit FSU her senior year of high school since they knew they were moving to the area.

“I had my transcripts with me, and [the registrar] took a look at the transcripts and said ‘Oh sure, we can take you,’ … So I was accepted and started in September,” Murtaugh said.

At the time, FSU only had two departments - home economics and education. Murtaugh knew she wanted to teach, so she enrolled in elementary education.

“I used to take the bus from Shoppers World,” she said. “I’d walk to Rte. 9 and take the bus and get off at the foot of State Street.”

Although her involvement at FSU began in the education department, Murtaugh had sewing skills along with most of her relatives on her mother’s side.

“A highlight for my mother and my aunt would be to go into the garment district in New York and look through remnants, and I was tagging along,” she said.

Murtaugh said although she graduated from FSU, she wasn’t involved with the Alumni Association until around her 50th anniversary at the school.

“I was really interested in fashion because I met someone in the alumni relations on a trip into the Hall of Flags and she was talking about the fashion show and I thought, ‘I’ve never been to the fashion show. I think I’d like to go,’ so it evolved from there,” she said.

Thinking about the next generation of fashion designers at FSU, she said, “I often wondered whether the kids would be interested in developing a fashion line for the University … more than scarves and sweatshirts, but current blouses, jackets - that kind of thing.”

Murtaugh’s advice for FSU students is to keep an open mind and continue to learn.

“When I left Framingham, I felt well prepared to teach, so, I’m sure the students who leave today feel prepared,” she said.

“From what I have seen of students that I have met and just observed, you really are a very serious group.”

Outside of the fashion realm, Murtaugh had volunteered at the history center and library in Framingham. She also loves traveling and has been everywhere from the South Pacific to the Mediterranean. Murtaugh even had the opportunity to take an oceanography class at the University of Hawaii, and always brought back pictures to her classroom to incorporate into lessons.

Once she graduated, Murtaugh began teaching third grade at Jonathan Maynard, which is now the Danforth Art School. She taught in the town of Framingham for 36 years.

Murtaugh’s donated garments are being showcased in the display case on the second floor of Hemenway Hall.

CONNECT WITH LAUREN PAOLINI lpaolini@student.framingham.edu

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10 | FEBRUARY 21, 2020

ARTS & FEATURES

Green Day misses the mark, again

By Cara McCarthy Associate Editor Billie Joe Armstrong, Tré Cool, and Mike Dirnt - better known as Green Day - have been staples in the punk-rock music scene since the early ’90s.

From albums such as “Dookie” to “American Idiot,” Green Day has left their mark on the music industry for life, that much is not up for debate.

However, as iconic as their music was back then, their recent album releases have been - and I mean this in the nicest way possible - total flops.

They released the “¡Uno!,” ‘’¡Dos!,” and “¡Tré!,” trilogy in 2012 - all three albums did poorly as they were released within a span of three months.

“Revolution Radio” was released in 2016, and it wasn’t terrible. It even debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top 200 - but it wasn’t the Green Day everyone knows and loves - and for that, it received a good amount of negative feedback from their older demographics.

And with this latest release Green Day may be reaching the end of its chain wallet.

The album, “Father of all Mother*******,” was released earlier this month in preparation for their world tour this summer.

As someone who has been a fan of

Green Day since she was in diapers, I cannot even begin to explain why this album is so disappointing.

Not only do a majority of the songs sound the same, Armstrong’s voice is autotuned to filth - which makes it hard to listen to without being angry at whoever the engineer was in the studio that day.

One thing Green Day has been known for - as well as what made them so popular in the first place - is being extremely vocal about their opinions of the current political climate. One of their most popular songs, “American Idiot,” was centered around former President George W. Bush. Several other songs on “Revolution Radio,” were criticizing Trump, and this album is no different.

The third track, “Oh Yeah!,” was written in response to the upsurge in school shootings in recent years, with the name of the track originally being “Bulletproof Backpack,” but changed to prevent controversy.

“I got blood on my hands in my pockets / That’s what you get turning bullets into rockets / I am a kid of a bad education / The shooting star of a lowered expectation.” The lyrics acknowledge both the prevalence of school shootings in America, as well as the American education system failing today’s youth.

The lyricism in the album isn’t terrible. I enjoy quite a few of the

songs lyric wise, if it wasn’t for the auto-tune in Armstrong’s voice, synchronized clapping every other song, and the lack of well-thoughtout choruses, I may have felt inclined to give this album a better grade.

One of the semi-good tracks is the title song, “Father of All…” However, once again, Armstrong simply doesn’t sound like himself - and I can’t look past that.

This album is missing so many elements that make Green Day legendary. Tré Cool’s lengthy drum solos, Billie’s crazy lyrics that go on for nine minutes, and the angst that made Green Day legends in the first place.

However, it wouldn’t be fair if I did not take into consideration that Green Day is 35 years old.

No band is going to keep the same momentum and theatrics their entire career - especially a band as old as Green Day. If this was their debut album, perhaps I would be a little more lenient - but I grew up on this music, and I know they have and can do better.

Green Day broke barriers, brought together a community of outcasts and misfits, and changed the music scene forever - while this album isn’t in everyone’s top 5, there are still loyal fans who will be eagerly awaiting the next one - myself included.

Reprise Records

Grade: D “Are we we are, are we we are, the disappointed.”

MENU

CONNECT WITH CARA MCCARTHY cmccarthy8@student.framingham.edu

Pictures of the Past ‘South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut’ hits the spot

By Patrick Brady Staff Writer “South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut” is directed by Trey Parker, who co-wrote the script with Matt Stone.

The characters are primarily voiced

by Parker and Stone, but include additional voices from Mary Kay Bergman, Isaac Hayes, and most notably, George Clooney.

The film is based on the adult animated sitcom, “South Park,” which is well-known for its vulgar and off-beat humor.

While the film does not feature a star-studded cast, it somehow succeeds in bringing the paper mache characters to life due to its fresh and original script and catchy tunes.

The story revolves around four, fourth-grade boys - Kyle, Kenny, Stan, and Eric Cartman - who become foulmouthed after watching an R-rated Canadian movie. Kyle’s mother, upon learning about the reason behind their cursing, decides to create a rebellion group called “Mothers Against Canada,” (M.A.C.) in an attempt to ban the movie. But, their movement quickly generates controversy, and M.A.C. decides to go to war with Canada after

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Canadian soldiers bomb the Baldwin residence.

Around the same time, Kenny dies and goes to hell after lighting one of his farts on fire. As the story progresses, the plot becomes more and more ridiculous as Kenny befriends Satan and his friends back on Earth try to rebel against their mothers. And as the finale finally rolls around, it is very hard to take the plot seriously anymore.

Unsurprisingly, Parker and Stone voiced most of the characters in the film - as they do on the show. But despite their lack of acting experience, they actually brought depth and emotion to the foul-mouthed cartoon characters.

This is partially due to the silly, yet somewhat heartfelt screenplay which they wrote. Although the humor is often juvenile, Parker and Stone give the kids some heart, since they truly care about each other and try to help one another on multiple occasions throughout the film.

While the plot might be random and far-fetched, the characters’ dialogue and reactions to the movie’s major plot points are - for the most part - realistic, which often adds to the hilarity of the scenes.

“Bigger, Longer, and Uncut” is known for being one of the best animated movies ever made - it even made the list on Rolling Stone’s top 40 greatest animated movies of all time.

The film has also been recognized for its musical numbers. In fact, the film could be considered a musical.

And that’s not all - the film was even nominated for an Academy Award, due to its best original song, “Blame Canada.” Unfortunately, it lost to Phil Collins’ “You’ll Be in My Heart.”

Parker wrote most of the songs and produced the soundtrack for the film as well. Parker and Stone later went on to win dozens of awards for their Broadway musical, “The Book of Mormon.”

Despite the R-rating and the large amount of criticism the film got after its release, it is rather tame compared to most movies nowadays. Sure, there is a lot of swearing and some violence, but for the most part, the film doesn’t venture into unknown R-rated territory.

I had absolutely zero expectations on my first viewing, since I heard the show was way too vulgar - even for most adults - but now, I can happily admit the film has turned me into a

die-hard fan.

Despite the frequently crass language and humor, “Bigger, Longer, and Uncut” succeeds as not only a great animated film, but also a phenomenal musical. Although the lyrics are sometimes crude, all the songs are catchy and serve a purpose to further the plot.

“South Park: Bigger, Longer, and Uncut” breaks the standard formula for animated films in the best - and most hilarious - sort of way.

ADMIT ONE

Grade: AThe film dares to go where no animated film has gone before.

ADMIT ONE

CONNECT WITH PATRICK BRADY pbrady@student.framingham.edu

ARTS & FEATURES

FEBRUARY 21, 2020 | 11

‘Sonic the Hedgehog’ is faster than you think

By Brennan Atkins Arts & Features Editor

Sonic in other media, he always has a comeback lined up. The film certainly does have action, it’s a lighthearted “coming of age” story and Shwartz’s acting reflects that.

The comedy in the film isn’t always well written, admittedly, but there are some humorous scenes in which Sonic exhibits his powers, such as him playing baseball by himself - Sonic pitches to Sonic, and then Sonic hits the ball to Sonic in the outfield.

It may sound a bit dumb, but it’s dumb fun and that’s all right with us.

Except for when Sonic “Flosses,” that may be a bit too dumb.

One huge issue with Sonic’s character is the writers add in a narrative of him being lonely. We don’t hate the idea of Sonic feeling a little blue, but it seriously messes up the film’s pace when you go from him having all sorts of fun, to him not feeling like there’s a single person he can connect to.

Jim Carrey’s performance as Doctor Robotnik sees a return to the comedian’s off-the-wall antics that made him a star in the ’90s. While it might not live up to some of his other iconic performances such as in “Ace Ventura: Pet Detective” or “The Mask,” it’s apparent Carrey had quite a fun time with this film.

Half of the film is dedicated to the

By Noah Barnes Entertainment Correspondent The “Sonic” franchise is approaching 30 years of jumping on springs, dodging spikes, and running around at the speed of sound, and people seem to be attached to his character to this very day. Whether it’s due to his iconic design, or his quick-witted, carefree attitude - it’s clear that the “Blue Blur” has a fanbase stronger than ever.

“Sonic the Hedgehog” features Ben Shwartz as the voice of Sonic, James Marsden as Tom, and the beloved Jim Carrey as the infamous Dr. Robotnik.

The film captures many of the elements behind what makes him an entertaining character, but certainly not all of them.

Shwartz, the voice behind Sonic, was an excellent casting choice as he was really able to make Sonic a character of his own. He didn’t try to sound exactly like previous Sonic voice actors such as Jason Griffith, or Martin Burke, but rather made a new voice inspired by the works of the past.

He brings a childlike attitude to his performance, and this really flowed with the tone of the movie. Similar to

villainous Dr. Robotnik, as if Carrey was one of the big selling points to go watch this movie. Much like many of his older roles, he had quite a lot of creative freedom to ad-lib and improvise as he pleased - kids are sure to get a good laugh in at Carrey’s zany performance.

Marsden does his job just fine.

Nothing really to write home about, but he gets the occasional laugh.

Many people were hesitant on the idea of having a CGI hedgehog running around real life San Francisco, but the CGI team turned out to be quite competent when it came to blending the two extremes. It’s not impressive, but we didn’t find ourselves distracted by anything the film puts on screen.

The music was divisive to say the least. At times, the soundtrack included iconic songs from the series, such as “Friends” by Hyper Potion, which is featured in the intro to 2017’s “Sonic Mania,” and it made for a refreshing, exciting introduction to the film.

However, the end credit song may just get the award for “worst music ever associated with Sonic.” “Speed Me Up” by Wiz Khalifa, Ty Dolla $ign, Lil Yachty, and Sueco the Child not only sounds off beat for half the song, but they don’t even sound like they wanted to do it.

ADMIT ONE

Grade: BThe “Blue Blur” brings his best … and mostly succeeds.

ADMIT ONE

CONNECT WITH BRENNAN ATKINS AND NOAH BARNES batkins@student.framingham.edu nbarnes@student.framingham.edu

‘Raging Loop’ - the best game last year that no one played

By Sean Cabot Staff Writer Despite being a major component of the early video game market, textbased games have lost traction. Visual novels, the most niche and densely worded of text-based games, are especially neglected in this regard.

Those who find success such as “Phoenix Wright” are largely exceptions to the rule and are still considered more novelties than serious contenders for any awards.

But I’ve been on a quest lately to play as many “pure” visual novels as possible, and in my quest found “Raging Loop.” And if I was in the position to give out any awards, I’d give it “Best Game of 2019,” without hesitation.

“Raging Loop,” follows Haruaki Fusaishi, a 24-year-old on a road trip to take his mind off of a recent breakup.

After he suffers an accident, he is led to a reclusive village called Yasumizu - and subsequently finds himself killed under strange circumstances after seeing a werewolf-like creature during a strange mist.

Haruaki’s memories then travel back in time, and he takes shelter

from the beast. But he finds on the following morning two other visitors have been killed, and the residents must now partake in a religious practice known as “the Feast.”

The Feast functions like the party game “Mafia” - among the human villagers lay a small number of werewolves, who can kill one person every night. The villagers must then choose a suspect to hang every day until they have killed all the wolves, with various divine roles assigned to the humans to help them in their task.

Skeptical of the supernatural explanations, Haruaki resolves to find the truth of Yasumizu and find out why he is stuck in a seemingly endless loop of events that compel him to enter the village.

Just a warning - “Raging Loop” has pretty much no gameplay to speak of beyond clicking through text and making story decisions. Those choices are also mostly a binary of “bad ending” and “continues the plot.”

If you’re not interested in reading, you probably won’t enjoy this very much - especially once the exposition in the ending stretch kicks in. But if you’re willing to give it a chance, the mystery found within will not disappoint.

“Raging Loop” is capital T tense with an atmosphere so thick a knife just ain’t gonna cut it. This combined with some stellar voice acting creates an incredibly engaging mystery with twists both bizarre and enticing.

The story doesn’t just nail its aesthetics - it also has a nuanced and relevant message. The themes draw upon Japan’s political and religious history to tackle the subject of oppression - criticizing how figures of power manipulate the morality of the disenfranchised.

Another great addition is a postgame feature called “revelation mode.” This mode features new scenes and dialogue that show the thoughts of various characters during the main story, painting many of them in a very different light than the first read-through does.

While it may sound cumbersome to reread most of the game, the mode goes by quickly if previously read dialogue is skipped, and the added content is absolutely worth reading.

Make sure to revisit those hint corners and the extra stories, too.

To top it all off, the characters of “Raging Loop” are just as engaging as its plot. Haruaki, in particular, is a fantastic protagonist. He’s witty with-

out being obnoxious and smart without being unrealistic - all while being a layered character with a fascinating arc. His chemistry with each of the villagers is superb.

Even side characters like an unruly store clerk are incredibly entertaining. If the drama of “Raging Loop” doesn’t engage you, the charming cast almost certainly will.

“Raging Loop” is a marvel of a visual novel, combining an engaging murder mystery with an engrossing emotional undercurrent. You cannot do better than this in terms of murder mysteries.

“Raging Loop” is available for download on PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch.

Grade: A A game worth playing on loop for years to come.

CONNECT WITH SEAN CABOT scabot@student.framingham.edu

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12 | FEBRUARY 21, 2020

ARTS & FEATURES

‘Sky Ladder’ reaches its mark

By James Barraford Staff Writer “Sky Ladder: The Art of Cai Guoqiang” is a lean Netflix documentary clocking in at an hour and 16 minutes.

For anyone interested in the art scene, this is a must see.

After several failed attempts, artist Guo-qiang, is intent on creating a fiery ladder that reaches toward the heavens. Instead of doing it in a major city, like his previous attempts, he is doing it in his hometown of Quanzhou for his 100-year-old grandmother - under the nose of the Communist Party.

Even with the film’s relatively short run time, we get an intimate look at the life and aspirations of Cai Guoqiang. The director, Kevin McDonald, succeeds in giving fair treatment of an artist whose life was formed from the repercussions of the Chinese Communist Revolution.

Throughout the film, we see his primary form of artistry with firework displays merged with other media to create something breathtaking and transient. The depiction of the “Ninth Wave” at the beginning of the film is ethereal. Fireworks ascend and explode, creating flickering dark streaks that culminate in a hellish orange mushroom cloud.

“Head On” shows a pack of wolves, suspended from a ceiling, falling over an invisible ledge to their demise. Will

ACROSS 1. Flock calls 5. Very small, informally 10. First-rate 14. Part of AKA 15. Chile con ___ 16. Sword whose name has two accents 17. Furniture for a reporter?

19. Hit the books 20. First-rate 21. Annual carnival locale 22. Ergo 23. Furniture for a clotheshorse?

28. Superhero movie trailer?

30. Beethoven’s Third 31. Puts forth 34. Email folder 35. Tennis court ruling 38. What many a maze path leads to 40. Downhill stick 42. Antlered beast 43. Track event 45. Unwelcome looks

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humans’ insatiable predation of the environment lead to the same lemming-like fall over the precipice?

The music that accompanies these displays compliments the depth of Guo-qiang’s goal. Electronic soundscapes create haunting, apocalyptic, or celebratory visions.

Guo-qiang’s life is shown fairly and honestly. Unlike other celebrity documentaries, which look more like self-produced advertisements, Guoqiang allows his struggle of individual artistry and the state to be aired.

This film is definitely not an advertisement. Professors, art critics, and former employees of Guo-qiang do not hold back leveling criticism against him.

The former director of Cai Studios, Jennifer Wen Ma, described how his work with the Chinese government often starts with a strong message and eventually devolves into a commercial spectacle with no substance.

Art critics such as Ben Davis acknowledged the shadier side of his dealings with the Communist Party. It cannot be ignored that his work for the opening of the 2008 Beijing Olympics displaced 1.5 million people and tightened already invasive surveillance.

Yet this is precisely what makes the film so engaging. It shows a man, who came from naught, and created his own multi-million-dollar enterprise.

Even with the success and broad social

messages, there is the reality of the system of which he is forced to participate in.

Guo-qiang, despite this issue, is a humble and unassuming man. Whenever he speaks into the camera it is as if you can see his aura glowing through the screen.

Guo-qiang states the intention of his work is to create a bridge between East and West. What he intuits artistically the audience can feel.

The explosions, which often incorporate dyes and state-of-the-art timing systems, intuit the chaos and order of two mega-powers. You can feel the wholeness of intentions, bringing dynamism in order to heal a divide.

I think it is also important for students to watch this film. It is vital, in times of turbulence, not to allow ideology to supersede pragmatism, regardless of the polarity.

My only issue with the film has to do with how quickly it covers Guoqiang’s misstep with Communist government. It could have gone further into the dealings and in some ways felt a little too veneer.

Yet with the conclusion of the film we see Guo-qiang undermining the Communist authority that has given him millions of dollars. With an enormous balloon, the ladder floats into the sky over the city of Quanzhou, as dawn makes its approach.

Whether you are an art connoisseur

46. Twitches 47. Zeros’ counterparts 49. Furniture for a chemist?

54. Lesser of two ___ 55. Rainy mo.

56. Corp. money person 59. Carton sealer 60. Furniture for a spiky-haired singer?

64. Idyllic spot 65. Talk show host 66. Viral cultural element 67. Apartment expense 68. Apple discontinued most models of them 69. Genesis guy DOWN 1. “Munich” star Eric 2. Baldwin of “30 Rock” 3. At this very moment 4. Emergency call 5. Outfit 6. Where the Eiffel Tower and Tower Bridge are 7. Society page word 8. Retirees’ fund org.

9. “___ Are My Sunshine” 10. Mother who won a Nobel Prize 11. Double-clicks on, perhaps 12. Quiet’s partner 13. Passover feast 18. It becomes another garment when its middle letter is changed to “o” 22. Frenzied 24. Stereotypical coder 25. Millennium’s thousand: Abbr.

26. Female deer 27. Curling venues 28. Yield, as property 29. Skating jump 32. Music speeds 33. Sam of 20th-century golf 35.Like some gowns 36. Magazine whose title is a French pronoun 37. Durbeyfield girl

or just looking to spend some down time watching a movie, this film is not only educational - it’s also entertaining and engrossing.

Netflix ADMIT ONE

Grade: A“Sky Ladder” is entertaining and opens the mind.

ADMIT ONE

CONNECT WITH JAMES BARRAFORD

jbarraford@student.framingham.edu

39. He loved Lucy 41. Place to play with noodles 44. Network for film buffs 46. Like early movies 47. Risked, as a wager 49. 2020 Bachelor Weber 50. Sidestep 51. Become less sour, say 52. ___-ski (relaxation time) 53. “My man!”

57. Disaster aid org.

Puzzle solutions are now 58. City near Provo exclusively online.

60. Longtime architect I.M. 61. Ballpark figure 62. Barracks VIP 63. Award for Kacey Musgraves: Abbr.

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 21, 2020 | 13

SPORTS

Women’s basketball clutches outright MASCAC regular season title

By Sara Senesac Sports Editor

The Rams’ women’s basketball team continued their undefeated reign on the MASCAC with back-to-back victories this past week.

They first hosted the Salem State Vikings Feb. 15 with the hopes of securing the top seed for the MASCAC tournament.

Salem held the game halfway through the first quarter, but eventually gave the Rams the space they needed to take a 15-11 lead.

The Vikings pushed back during the second quarter - keeping the Rams’ lead within one - until Framingham took off on a 9-1 run, heading into the third with a score of 40-29.

The Rams started the second half strong and extended the lead by as many as 17 after a pair of threes from senior Mary Kate O’Day and freshman Krysta Padellaro.

Framingham carried their momentum throughout the final two quarters, even extending the lead by a whopping 31 points during the third.

The Rams finished the match with a 92-53 victory over Salem, securing their top seed spot for the MASCAC tournament.

O’Day led the game with 27 points, six rebounds, and three assists.

Freshman Flannery O’Connor added 17 points and 11 rebounds for the match.

FRAMINGHAM STATE SALEM STATE

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Framingham then hosted the Bridgewater State Bears for more conference action Feb. 19.

Prior to the tip-off, the Rams honored their three graduating seniors - O’Day, Emily Velozo, and Julia Sanborn - as they celebrated their Senior Night.

O’Connor dominated the first quarter for the Rams, scoring six of the team’s eight points in the first two minutes of play. By the end of the quarter, she already racked up 13 points.

The Bears attempted to cut the Rams lead down, but Framingham held on and ended the first with a 26-13 lead.

Bridgewater managed to start closing the gap at the beginning of the second, but once again the Rams took off, leading 39-28 by the end of the half.

The Bears managed to cut the lead down to nine in the third quarter.

It was short-lived, though, as Framingham took off on a 15-2 run and extended their lead by as many as 22.

The Rams pushed their lead up to as much as 30 in the final quarter and never looked back.

Framingham finished the game with a score of 85-63 over the Bears, securing their first outright title in program history.

O’Connor led the team in points with 21. She also made 11 rebounds for the match.

O’Day and Velozo followed close behind with 13 points each. Freshman Katty Haidul added 11 points and eight rebounds of her own.

Framingham is now 11-0 in the MASCAC and 19-5 for the season.

The Rams travel to Fitchburg State to close out their regular season against the Falcons Feb. 22.

FRAMINGHAM STATE BRIDGEWATER STATE

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CONNECT WITH SARA SENESAC ssenesac@student.framingham.edu

Donald Halsing / THE GATEPOST Emily Velozo and a Bridgwater State basketball player.

Donald Halsing / THE GATEPOST Flannery O’Connor and a Bridgwater State basketball player.

Donald Halsing / THE GATEPOST Mary Kate O’Day and Bridgwater State basketball players.

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14 | FEBRUARY 21, 2020

SPORTS

Men’s basketball falls to Salem State 88-81

By Carlos Silva Asst. Sports Editor Coming off their first victory in 13 games, the Rams looked to continue their momentum as they took on the Salem State Vikings in a MASCAC game Feb. 12.

The Rams looked focused as the first half was a back and forth fight with the lead changing four times.

Framingham had spurts of strong offense that was matched or even overtaken by the Vikings right away.

The Rams were up 8-7 after a Tyri Hampton three-point shot gave them the lead. Salem State answered back on the next possession with a three-point shot of their own to retain the lead.

Later in the half, the Rams were up again 19-18, but the Vikings went on a quick 8-0 run led by four points from Alex De La Rosa.

The Rams were able to cut the deficit down to four points going into halftime after Jared Gordon-Anderson knocked a pair of free throws in the last minutes of the frame.

Despite strong efforts to take the lead in the second half, the same story from the early part of the game continued.

The Vikings offense was just too consistent for the Rams to stop.

After a three-point play by Hakeem Animashaun, the Vikings went on a 9-0 run and never looked back.

The Vikings were able to protect their lead throughout the last 12 minutes of the half and secured an 88-81 win over the Rams.

Despite the loss, the Rams were able to show the strong potential on their offensive rotation with freshman John Kalton scoring a career-high 25 points and Hampton scoring 24 points as well.

The Rams drop to 1-9 in the MASCAC and 2-21 overall.

SALEM STATE FRAMINGHAM STATE

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CONNECT WITH CARLOS SILVA csilva14@student.framingham.edu

Zaire Peart

Donald Halsing / THE GATEPOST

Keith Hollman

Cameron McCloud-Thomas

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Donald Halsing / THE GATEPOST

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SPORTS

FEBRUARY 21, 2020 | 15

Dirty cleats Continued from page 1

see more chances than before to impress.

“Heading into my sophomore year my mentality is very much similar to last year, except now I’m coming in with more experience. I want to do everything I did last year and more. Having a great freshman year is a start, but all athletes know progression in your skills and achievements is the most important thing,” Pepin said.

She added, “I’ve been counting down the days until our first game, and that feeling when I finally step on the field with the team is really going to be something else. At that moment, the excitement is going to take over and you will probably find me bouncing all around the field.”

With Pepin and others moving into their sophomore year, there are, of course, numerous freshmen that will start at the same road they did.

And with new faces comes adjusting to a new level of play and having to build new relationships with teammates.

“We have a young group overall, but through the first couple of weeks of practice, they look focused and getting ready to play in college at a high level,” Miller said. “We know we are going to have a lot of options which is exciting as a coach.”

“We have 11 freshmen on our team, so it’s been an adjustment,” Sherman said. “But it’s been fun this year so far, and we’re getting so excited to start our season.”

Laela Pepin

Kaela Sherman

Courtesy of fsurams.com

Grace Caughey

Courtesy of fsurams.com

The 2020 season for Framingham will begin on March 15, and the Rams are getting ready for it.

Whether it’s in the gym doing deadlifts, practicing where the basketball and volleyball teams play, or hitting the books to stay on top of academics, they’re doing what they can to be prepared.

“Getting ready for the season has been going pretty well. Like most teams we are limited due to the weather and have to practice in the gym most days, however that hasn’t stopped our grind,” Pepin said.

“Each practice I’ve seen my teammates get better and stronger, and all our hard work is going to show off once the first pitch of the season is thrown.”

All the preparation and practice the team has put into the offseason is building up to a shot at their fourth-straight MASCAC title.

With talented freshmen, seasoned players, and captains Sherman, Kirsten Dick and Mycala Moody, the reigning champs seem set to defend their crown and add another plaque to the Athletic Center’s trophy case.

“We want to compete in everything we do,” Miller said. “I am very confident this group can achieve our goals.”

Rams 2019 MASCAC Championship team

Courtesy of fsurams.com

CONNECT WITH LIAM GAMBON lgambon1@student.framingham.edu

FRAMINGHAM STATE UNIVERSITY’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SINCE 1932 | FSUGATEPOST.COM

SPORTS

16 | FEBRUARY 21, 2020

Ice hockey clings on in the MASCAC

By Sara Senesac Sports Editor The Rams’ ice hockey team played back-to-back MASCAC games last week as the end of their regular season approaches.

Framingham hosted the Worcester State Lancers for a fast-paced match Feb. 13.

The first period went by quietly, with neither team seeing much scoring opportunity.

The second period exploded when both teams were awarded power plays, and each saw their chance to capitalize.

Worcester saw the first goal of the game in the eighth minute, when three Lancers were able to move the puck down the ice and pass off to Mark Revniaga for the kill.

The Rams responded just a few short minutes later when sophomore Zach Bettmeng grabbed a loose puck in front of the Worcester net, tying the score at one.

Less than a minute later, the Lancers scored once more, but Bettmeng wasn’t finished yet.

After a missed pass by the Lancers, Bettmeng chased the puck into Worcester’s zone, sent a hard check to the defender, and sent one in to tie the game at two.

After an exciting second period, the third did not disappoint.

Will Ahearn broke the tie for the Lancers less than a minute into the third to put Worcester up once more.

Framingham responded in the fifth minute, when sophomore Bryan Whelan sent one into the back of the net.

The Lancers took the lead again a short minute later, but the Rams had a quick response of their own ready. Junior Ryan Paul scored to tie the game at four at the six-minute mark.

The Rams took the lead for the first time just two minutes later, when junior Jack Pierson scored off a pass from freshman Matthew Irwin.

Worcester put up a tough effort for the remainder of the game, but the Rams held on through multiple power plays and an empty Lancers’ net to secure their victory. Framingham ended the night with a 5-4 win.

Both teams were tied with 41 shots for the game, but Rams’ goalie Blake Carlson led with 37 saves.

Framingham had four different players score and five different players with assists by the end of the match.

FRAMINGHAM STATE WORCESTER STATE

The Rams celebrate Senior Night

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The Rams then hosted the Fitchburg State Falcons during Senior Night Feb 15.

Prior to the game, Framingham honored three seniors - Greg Harney, Brenden Williams, and Nick McNally - for their final match on home ice.

The Falcons dominated most of the play for the entirety of the contest.

Jordin Holmes scored their first goal just three minutes into the first.

A few moments later, Fitchburg capitalized off a rebound to extend their lead by two.

Pierson managed to come back and cut the lead in half for the Rams, sneaking one in off a pass from sophomore Jake Garman.

At the end of the first, the Falcons were able to work off of two different power plays to grab a 4-1 lead over Framingham heading into the second.

Fitchburg added two additional goals during the second, skating through the Rams to hold a 6-1 lead.

The Falcons scored their seventh and final goal of the game in the third. The Rams fought back but were not able to get another goal in for the remainder of the game.

Fitchburg outshot Framingham 47-27 by the end of the match. Harney still managed an impressive 29 saves in net during his final home game.

This loss brings Framingham to 2-13-1 in the MASCAC, and 3-18-2 overall. They travel to Westfield State for their final regular season game Feb. 22.

FITCHBURG STATE FRAMINGHAM STATE

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CONNECT WITH SARA SENESAC ssenesac@student.framingham.edu

5 4

Courtesy of fsurams.com

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 21, 2020 | 17

Players of the Week 1st Player of the Week: Mary Kate O’Day O’Day dropped 40 points on 57.6% shooting and collected 15 rebounds, eight assists, two steals and two blocks as the Rams went 2-0 for the week. Her best game of the week came against Salem State on Feb. 15, where she contributed a game-high 27 points, six rebounds, three assists, a steal and a block.

Courtesy of fsurams.com

2nd Player of the Week: Tyri Hampton Hampton put together 47 points, 24 rebounds, three assists, seven steals and a block for the week. The highlight of his week came against Bridgewater State on Wednesday, when he hit a half-court buzzer-beater to send the game into overtime.

Courtesy of fsurams.com

3rd Player of the Week: Flannery O’Connor The freshman shined with 38 points on 76.1% shooting to go along with 22 rebounds, two blocks and a steal in the week. Her biggest performance came against Bridgewater where she dumped in 21 points and pulled down 11 rebounds as she outplayed Bridgewater star Destiny Fitzgerald.

Courtesy of fsurams.com

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ADVERTIS E MENTS

18 | FEBRUARY 21, 2020

Communication and Literacy Skills Test (CLST) (students are expected to attend all three sessions) Tuesdays: February 25th, March 3rd, March 10th

6:30-8:30pm May Hall 117 Instructor: Marianne McGowan, CASA tutor and teacher Foundations of Reading: Option One (recommended for students in EDUC 376) Thursday, February 13th 6:30-8:30pm DH 104 Foundations of Reading: Option Two (for students retaking FOR) Thursday, March 12th 6:30-8:30pm DH 104 Foundations of Reading: Option Three (Drop-in session: Open to all) Thursday, April 30th 6:30-8:00pm DH 104 Foundations of Reading: Option Four (For students in EDUC 332 and EDUC 320) Saturday, May 2nd 8:30am-1:00pm DH 104 Instructor for FOR workshops: Dr. Laura Hudock, Education Department General Curriculum: Math (students are expected to attend all four sessions) Tuesdays: March 24th, March 31st, April 7th, April 14th 6:30-8:30 pm HH 405 Instructor: Mark Morabito, CASA Tutor and teacher

Please email Ally Chisholm (achisholm@framingham.edu) with questions.

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Complete a Health Survey and be entered to win!

Check your email on February 24th for a link to complete the survey.

It is confidential and will help us improve student programs.

Questions?

Contact: Joy LaGrutta jlagrutta@framingham.edu 508-626-4693

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FEBRUARY 21, 2020 | 19

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Club Meeting Times Monday English Club, 1:30 pm, MA 112A Nutrition Club, 1:30 pm, 1st Mon, HH 219 Wildlife, 1:30 pm, HA 325 Catholic Student Group, 1:30 pm, EC 101 Gatepost, 6:30 pm, MC 410 Dance Team, 6:30 pm, Aerobics Room 207/208 Green Initiative, 6:45 pm, MC Paul T. Murphy 520 MISS, 7:00 pm, O’Connor CIE Psychology Club, 7:30 pm, Club Room 1, MC 413 Tuesday Math Club, 4:30 pm, HH 401 Pride Alliance, 6:30 pm, Club Room 1, MC 413 Dance Team, 6:30 pm, AF 207 Black Student Union, 7:00 pm, O’Connor CIE SGA, 7:30 pm, MC Alumni Room LUNA, 8:00 pm, OC 220 Wednesday History Club, 1:30 pm, MA 111B Christian Fellowship, 6:30 pm, Ecumenical Center Dance Team, 6:30 pm, AF 208

Wednesday (cont’d) SUAB, 6:30 pm, 2nd and 4th Wed, Club Room 1, MC 413 Marketing Club, 6:30 pm, HH 110 Fashion Club, 7 pm , HH 218 Students of Caribbean Ancestry, 7:30 pm O’Connor CIE Comic Book Club, 7:30 pm, Club Room 1, MC 413 Thursday IGNITE, 1:30 pm, Club Room 1, MC 413 WDJM, 5:30 pm, MC Paul T. Murphy 520 Gatepost, 6:30 pm, MC 410 Dance Team, 6:30 pm, AF 207 Her Campus, 7 pm, Club Room 1, MC 413 African Student Association, 7 pm, North Hall Commons Chess Club, 7 pm, HH 110 African Caribbean Dance Group, 7:30 pm, AF 208 Brother to Brother, 7:30 pm, O’Connor CIE Friday Journal of Critical Thinking, 1:30 pm, MC Paul T. Murphy 520 Gaming Club, 3:00 pm, Club Room 1, MC 413 Dance Team, 6:30 pm, AF 207 Sunday Symphonic Band, 6 pm, DPAC

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20 | FEBRUARY 21, 2020

PHOTOS

The Rams Men’s and Women’s basketball teams played against B r i d g e w at e r State the night of Feb. 19.

Photographs and spread by Donald Halsing/ THE GATEPOST FRAMINGHAM STATE UNIVERSITY’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER SINCE 1932 | FSUGATEPOST.COM