The Hofstra Chronicle February 23, 2021

T H E HOFS T R A

HEMPSTEAD, NY VOLUME 86 ISSUE 5

CHRONICLE

TUESDAY February 23, 2021

KEEPING THE HOFSTRA COMMUNITY INFORMED SINCE 1935.

NEWS

WRHU becomes the first student-run station to receive the World Radio Day award

By Madeline Armstrong A S S I S TA N T N E W S E D I T O R

Hofstra University’s radio station, WRHU-FM, became the first student-run radio station to receive the World Radio Day Award from the Academy of Radio Arts and Sciences of America on Jan. 25.

World Radio Day, established by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization), took place on Saturday, Feb. 13, to celebrate and appreciate radio broadcasting.

“It’s a global celebration of the power of radio,” said Andrew Gladding, chief engineer for WRHU. Each year, the Academy of Radio Arts and Sciences of America awards the World Radio Day Award to a radio station that “embodies

Photo Courtesy of RadioWorld.com Radio Hofstra University wins first student-run World Radio Day Award.

A&E

‘To All the Boys 3’: A heartfelt finale

By Eleni Kothesakis A RT S & E N T E RTA I N M E N T EDITOR

Lara Jean Song Covey is back once again to bring out the romantic in all of us. The “To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before” lead returns for the third and final installment of the series, “To All the Boys: Always and Forever.” In their last few months of high school, Lara Jean (Lana Condor) and her boyfriend Peter Kavinsky (Noah Centineo) are eagerly waiting to start the next chapter in their relationship by hopefully attend-

ing Stanford together in the fall.

Everything starts to fall apart for the couple when Lara Jean fails to get into Stanford and instead falls in love with NYU, which is approximately 3,000 miles away from both Peter and her family.

While the second movie in the franchise fell flat in comparison to the first, the third one fully delivered with geeky 80s references, heartfelt family moments and adorable interactions between Lara Jean and Peter that could melt even the coldest of hearts.

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the spirit of radio,” according to Gladding.

According to WRHU Station Manager Catie Egan, criteria for winning the award was based on three different categories this year.

“One was service to the industry. Another was our diverse set of programming,” she said. “It was also our response to the rebirth of radio during the coronavirus.”

Despite the pandemic, WRHU remained a fully functioning radio station while other stations around the world had to cut programming or completely shut down, according to Egan.

“The fact that [the station] was operating with students at the helm when no students were allowed in the building ... was remarkable,” said

Adam Flash/The Hofstra Chronicle

Chief Engineer Andy Gladding got behind the sound board to engineer the World Radio Day broadcast on Feb. 12.

Eli Finkelson, former station manager and current executive producer of “Around the World in 30 Minutes.” “We had sports programming when there were no sports. We had music interviews when artists were not performing.”

WRHU has continued to excel at a professional level, with three Marconi awards under its belt as well as several other awards.

“We are not a college station,” Finkelson said. “We are a fully operating, licensed, 110% working radio station that happens to be on a college campus and run by people that happen to still be in college.”

To celebrate this award, Gladding had the idea for a three-day global broadcast.

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NEWS

Indoor dining resumes in New York City

Photo Courtesy of Queens Business News Restaurants in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island are allowed to resume indoor dining at 25% capacity after a surge in COVID-19 cases caused a two-month ban.

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A2 •FEBRUARY 23, 2021

203 Student Center hofstrachronicle@gmail.com

Editors-in-Chief Melanie Haid Drashti Mehta Managing Editor Visvajit Sriramrajan Business Manager Robert Kinnaird News Editor Annemarie LePard Assistant News Editors Ahjané Forbes Marjorie Rogers Madeline Armstrong A&E Editors Eleni Kothesakis Victoria Bell Assistant A&E Editors Jacob Huller Kat Salmon Sports Editors Anthony Roberts Mike Senatore Assistant Sports Editor Tino Pattigno Will Wiegleman Features Editors Betty Araya Audra Nemirow Assistant Features Editor Micaela Erickson Op-Ed Editors Jessica Zhang Daniel Cody Assistant Op-Ed Editors Yashu Pericherla Aja Ward Copy Chief Odessa Stork Assistant Copy Chiefs Antonia Moffa Julia Razzante Multimedia Editors Robert Kinnaird Adam Flash Talha Siddiqui Assistant Multimedia Editor Jacob Lewis Social Media Team Gab Varano Tori Licata Tino Pattigno Anthony Roberts Editors-at-Large David Lazar Sarah Emily Baum The Chronicle is published on Tuesdays during the academic year by the students of Hofstra University. The Chronicle is located in Room 203 Student Center, 200 Hofstra University, Hempstead, N.Y. 11549. Advertising and subscription rates may be obtained by calling (516) 463-6921.

The Chronicle reserves the right to reject any submission, in accordance with our written policies. All advertising which may be considered fraudulent, misleading, libelous or offensive to the University community, The Chronicle or its advertisers may be refused. The products and opinions expressed within an advertisement are not endorsed by The Chronicle or its staff.

NEWS

WRHU airs three-day broadcast in honor of UNESCO award

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Starting Friday, Feb. 12, and continuing through the weekend, WRHU connected with 13 different international stations across the world to talk about the importance of radio and how it has shifted due to the pandemic.

“I thought it would be really fun ... and educational to take WRHU and turn it into a worldwide network for one day,” Gladding said. According to Gladding, the 2021 World Radio Day award marks WRHU as a world class radio station. He sees this as an opportunity to elevate expectations of the station and to keep aiming higher.

“There is no way that any other college radio station or commercial radio station has

even thought of an event like this,” said Edward Mabeza, program director of music at WRHU. “This is a worldwide broadcasting event, and this is definitely something for the history books.”

Others felt that the event served as a milestone for the achievements of the entire station.

“It is a tribute to what we have done, and a tribute to what we can do,” said Bruce Avery, general manager of WRHU. “We’ve created an arena where people can come and polish new skills,” and then go out and become as good of a broadcaster, as good of a human and as good of a citizen as they can possibly be.”

Adam Flash/ The Hofstra Chronicle Former Personnel Director Natalie Khait anchored a joint broadcast with Bradford City Broadcasting in the United Kingdown for World Radio Day.

The stock market enters a new era with social media at the helm

By Madeline Armstrong A S S I S TA N T N E W S E D I T O R

Members of the Reddit chat room ‘Wall Street Bets’ rallied together a little over a month ago to buy into the struggling GameStop stock in an attempt to save it from the hedge funds that were short-selling it. GameStop has a bleak future, but “it was more of a movement” for the retail investors, according to Pritpaul Minhas, a sophomore finance major at Hofstra University.

“It’s millions of people com-

ing together, combating these market forces and trying to change what’s happening,” said Zachary Duren, a junior finance major and vice president of Alpha Kappa Psi, a professional business fraternity at Hofstra.

“The higher-ups on Wall Street are going to have a new respect for retail investors.”

This type of short squeeze is not significant, but the role Reddit played in this situation is what made it notable, according to Paul Bjorneby, an adjunct finance professor.

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Hofstra hosts discussion on anti-racism

By Julian Rocha

SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

The Hofstra Cultural Center, in partnership with the Maurice A. Deane School of Law and the Hofstra University Center for Civic Engagement, hosted Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, the founding director of Boston University’s Center for Antiracist Research, for an hour-long, virtual question-and-answer conversation on Tuesday, Feb. 16.

Kendi is a regular contributor to both CBS News and The Atlantic and is a three-time New York Times bestselling author.

Students, staff, faculty and other members of the Hofstra community attended the event, which occurred on Zoom. The discussion, focusing on racial equity on college campuses, was co-moderated by Katrina Sims, assistant professor of history and faculty-in-residence, the Division of Student Affairs and Sevion McLean, a senior engineering student and president of the Xi Psi Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.

Kendi’s ideas on anti-racism were met with positive regard by the Hofstra community. Both students and faculty expressed great praise for Kendi and his work. “[The discussion was] very informational, with great insight on how to actively practice anti-racism on a college campus, which is especially important given the political climate,” said Tyler Mroczek, a sophomore journalism major. “He does the same thing in the books that he’s published, and he does a great

job of not only explaining the problems that we have, but also giving applicable solutions for everyday people.”

Sage Wenninghoff, a freshman rhetoric and public advocacy major and a Center for Civic Engagement fellow, expressed a similar sentiment toward Kendi.

“I thought it was overall very enlightening,” she said. “Something that interested me was when [Kendi] was talking about teaching anti-racism in school, which is not something that I am used to experiencing as a student.”

“Anti-racism means that every student, whether that student is white or BIPOC [Black, Indigenous, and People of Color], gains access to equal opportunities in all forms, both on and off campus,” said Ashley Riboul, a sophomore drama major. “It also has a lot to do with pointing out words and actions that are discriminatory and racist, and that those who performed those acts have to actually take accountability.”

During the conversation, Kendi emphasized that an important tenet of becoming an anti-racist institution is hiring diverse faculty, since such individuals often leave a lasting legacy. Inspired by the surge of activism over the past few years, colleges and universities around the country have taken a closer look at how they promote racial equity. Hofstra is no exception, back in 2019, the university hired Cornell Craig as the chief diversity and inclusion officer, a brand-new position at the time.

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Photo courtesy of Hofstra University Relations Dr. Ibram X. Kendi, founder of Boston University’s Center for Antiracist research, discussed how students can actively practice anti-racism on college campuses.

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NEWS

FEBRUARY 23, 2021 • A3

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NEWS

Five boroughs reopen indoors after two month shutdown

By Annemarie LePard

spreading this,” Siaxabanis said.

“Yet they decided to shut us down.”

Siaxabanis argued that if the state left indoor dining at 25% capacity, the numbers would have been better.

“In my opinion, it probably helped fuel the spread of it [COVID-19] because the numbers didn’t go down after they shut us down – [the] numbers shot up,” Siaxabanis said. “People were hanging out in houses ... and at least when people did it in restaurants and bars, they were forced to do it safely.”

According to Luscher, it is necessary to reopen indoor dining, but the restaurant industry

received outpouring support from the community.

NEWS EDITOR “Whether it was raining or Indoor dining resumed in hot [over the summer], it didn’t New York City on Friday, Feb. make a difference,” he said.

12, at 25% capacity following a “People still came out because two-month ban due to a surge in people were so bored, and they COVID-19 cases. couldn’t do anything.”

While the five boroughs were The winter months, however, forced to rely solely on takeout have made it difficult to attract and outdoor dining since the becustomers, especially those of ginning of December 2020, the an older age. “I have an older rest of New York state, includclientele that have been coming ing Long Island, had indoor dinhere since [the diner opened],” ing available at 50% capacity.

Siaxabanis said. “I see them all “It’s been completely unfair,” the time, and they’re just like, said George Siaxabanis, owner ‘George, I don’t know if this of Metro Diner in Queens. “Ten is my last winter’ ... they don’t miles east of here, restaurants know how much time they have were allowed to operate again, left and coming here, it breaks [but] the outup the day.” er-boroughs Not only is weren’t.” indoor dining The ban beneficial for was put into the restaurants effect a little themselves, but more than 10 for the comweeks after munity as well. the boroughs “I just hope could resume we’re not forced indoor dinto shut down ing at 25% again,” Siaxacapacity for banis continued. the first time “I mean for [the since March. elderly]; it’s just The second Photo courtesy of Rachel Luscher so sad.” shutdown left The country Metro Diner in Queens has prepared their restaurant to be ‘COVIDrestaurants is nearly a year friendly’ as customers return indoors. with outdoor into the pandining, takeout and delivery in the five boroughs is “severely demic, and fortunately Siaxaheading into the winter months. damaged.” banis and his business survived “It’s an injustice that Long “25% [capacity] is nothing the shutdowns and he was able Island was able to stay at 50% compared to what restaurants to keep almost all his staff on capacity this entire time,” said used to make or had the popayroll, but with new variants Rachel Luscher, a sophomore tential to before COVID,” she of the coronavirus reaching the journalism major and hostess said. “With all these regulations, United States, there is a fear of at Metro Diner. “I know Long many people don’t even want restaurants shutting down again.

Island’s infection rate was a to bother going to a restaurant “I can’t survive another year lot higher than ours ... and the anymore.” like this,” Siaxabanis said. “I Governor uses the population New York City restaurants just hope that they let us reopen density to justify shutting us are required to contact trace, and we stay at least at 25% down.” check the temperature of every [capacity] – we can’t go through New York restaurants and bars customer and mandate six feet another shutdown.” accounted for 1.4% of the cases of separation between those not from September to December of in the same party. last year. In comparison, private “It’s not a pleasant experiand social gatherings accounted ence,” Luscher said. “[People] for 74% of COVID-19 cases would rather just invite people tracked by the state during those over at their homes.” months, according to Cuomo “It’s very difficult running during his Dec. 11 press confera business when you’re handence. cuffed,” Siaxabanis added. “[The state’s] own testing Metro Diner has been in showed [restaurants] weren’t business for 30 years and has

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Retail investors unite to combat hedge funds CONTINUED FROM A2 “What is unique about this situation is that a lot of the trading activity was generated and fostered via social media,” Bjorneby said.

This event marks a turning point for the stock market, with social media now playing an avid role in influencing trading and investing. Because of this, Bjorneby believes that the hedge funds will be more wary of retail investors and their activity on social media.

“I spoke to a couple of people who work at hedge funds and institutional investors after the GameStop frenzy took place,”

cion that Robinhood was doing this at the behest of the hedge funds,” said Ronald Frank, an adjunct assistant professor of finance at Hofstra.

At the House Financial Services hearing on Thursday, Feb. 18, Vladimir Tenev, CEO of Robinhood, said there was no outward influence from hedge funds or market makers that caused them to freeze the stock.

There is still no definitive conclusion as to if there will be any regulatory response.

In the meantime, many young investors are ditching the platform for other brokerages and trading platforms. “I’ve definitely started looking into other

Photo courtesy of The Guardian

Retail investors unite their forces through Reddit to buy into the struggling Gamestop stock.

Bjorneby said. “And all of them said that they are monitoring social media more closely than they have in the past.”

Cristina DaCosta, a senior finance major and secretary of the Hofstra SheEOs, an undergraduate women in business organization, believes that social media’s involvement with the financial market will work in favor of retail investors.

“It [social media] evens out the playing field,” DaCosta said.

“For the first time, [retail investors] were actually winning.”

However, this war between the hedge funds and the retail investors came to a screeching halt on Thursday, Jan. 28, when GameStop collapsed after Robinhood, a popular commissionfree investing platform geared toward individual investors, had to freeze trades, which ultimately benefitted the hedge fund investors.

“The reason it’s become controversial is because some of the affected parties raised a suspi-

platforms,” Duren said. “Robinhood doesn’t have the backing they need to be a financial institution.”

Minhas left the platform, saying that although Robinhood did what it had to do, it was unethical to put investors in that situation. “It showed how bad of a broker Robinhood actually is if they’re not able to handle something like that.”

Despite the controversy surrounding Robinhood, Frank encourages people to continue to invest.

“It’s terrific for younger people to become involved in the stock market,” he said. “Just make sure you educate yourself about what you’re getting into.”

Minhas agrees, saying that social media is creating more access and information regarding the stock market and younger people should take advantage of that.

“Young people should definitely read up, do their research and start investing.”

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NEWS

FEBRUARY 23, 2021 • A5

Will vaccines be mandated on campus?

Photo courtesy of American Association of Nurse Practitioners Dr. Joanne Willey predicts vaccines will be available for healthy, nonessential working college students by June 2021.

By Hannah Merwin S TA F F W R I T E R

Over 51 million doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been distributed across the United States so far, and that number is going up every day.

As vaccines become more widely available, the question of whether or not Hofstra University will mandate the COVID-19 vaccine for its students remains unknown.

Because the vaccine is not available for everyone yet, if it is eventually required, it will not be any time soon.

“The vaccines that are available have been granted an emergency use authorization, which is different from being FDA approved,” said Dr. Joanne Willey, professor of biomedical science and department chair of science education. “No one can mandate any vaccine, drug or treatment that is granted emergency authorization, so Hofstra cannot mandate it until then. Fortunately, at the

rate the vaccines are being distributed and the amount of data being collected, the vaccine will be FDA approved sooner rather than later.”

Though this is promising information, Willey does not see the approval happening before September, which would mean there can be no vaccination mandate for the Fall 2021 semester. However, she predicts vaccines will be available for healthy, nonessential working college students around June of 2021.

Many Hofstra students are looking forward to being vaccinated as soon as possible, and some have already been vaccinated.

“I was able to be vaccinated because I am a first responder,” said Diana Onorato, a junior exercise science major. “It was a very smooth process, and I was fortunate enough to not have to deal with any side effects.” Others have not had quite the same results from the vaccine, but still report eventually feeling

completely fine.

“The first shot was just like the flu shot,” said Justin Cabot-Miller, a Hofstra graduate who double majored in mathematics and computer science. Cabot-Miller’s 2020 graduation ceremony was canceled due to COVID-19.

“The second shot was worse though; I had a small fever until the next day and had some tremors that started several hours after being vaccinated and lasted a few hours.”

However, Cabot-Miller still recommends being vaccinated as soon as possible. “Remember that science works, there are those [still] alive that remember polio and its gradual decline, thanks in no small part to vaccines. Don’t trust me, trust the science, and trust the fact that the sooner you get vaccinated, the sooner we regain some semblance of normalcy.”

The university currently requires students to show proof of immunity to measles, mumps and rubella. Willey thinks that the COVID-19 vaccine will also eventually end up as a requirement to attend Hofstra.

“It would make no sense not to,” Willey said. “Many airlines, employers and schools will require vaccinations. Some hospitals already do. Because of the seriousness of the situation ... it would make no sense not to

said. “Vaccines are necesmandate the vaccine in high density environments.” sary to get back to the college Some people are wary experience we all wanted.” of the new vaccine and are “Vaccines ought to be concerned with the speed at required on campus,” Cabotwhich the vaccine was proMiller said. “You can’t drive duced, but Willey was able to drunk because you’re unnecessarily putting others at risk, quickly debunk that theory. why should you be allowed “This vaccine began develto be unvaccinated and [put opment after the 2002 Severe others at risk]? It’s not just Acute Respiratory Syndrome about the individual getting (SARS) epidemic began,” vaccinated, but everyone they Willey said. “The genome interact with.” sequences of SARS and Though the vaccine is not COVID-19 are very similar, estimated to be widely availso when COVID-19 hit, the able until June or July, Willey vaccine had already gone urges students to remain through testing for a similar patient and be a “vaccine amvirus, which means it had a bassador,” advocating for the huge head start. The idea that vaccine in the meantime. the vaccine was created too “COVID-19 has forced us quickly is an understandable all to reckon with the fact that misunderstanding.”

Brianna Donnelly, a sopho- sometimes it’s not the brave, more pre-medical student, larger-than-life actions of a believes that mandating the hero that can save us, but the vaccine is necessary for life at collective action,” CabotHofstra to return to normal.

Miller said. “To do something “I think the COVID-19 small, wear a mask and spare vaccine should eventually be a minute to get vaccinated.” required on campus, because we all want things to go back to normal, and the only way that can happen at Hofstra is if we have herd Photo courtesy of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention immunity on campus,” Over 51 million Americans have been vaccinated, and by the end of July, President Joe Biden said the United Donnelly States will have enough coronavirus vaccines for 300 million Americans.

Award-winning scholar pushes for an anti-racist environment CONTINUED FROM A2

“To have somebody in the President’s Cabinet, raising these questions and issues at every stage, is a big step,” said Warren Frisina, dean of the Honors College. “At every meeting, when the Provost [Herman A. Berliner] gets to talk about hiring, he talks about being proactive in the formation of diverse pools. Every depart-

ment that gets to hire is in conversation with our chief diversity and inclusion officer about the way in which they are composing their pools.”

In addition to equitable hiring practices, Kendi believes that educational institutions must also place a focus on creating an antiracist learning environment.

Photo Courtesy of Julian Rocha The discussion on anti-racism was held on Zoom with maximum attendance.

“This involves infusing anti-racism and equity at the forefront,” said Veronica Lippencott, associate director of the Center for Race, Culture and Social Justice and adjunct associate professor of global studies and geography. “BIPOC students need to know that they are in a safe space with their instructor. Faculty should

reflect on changing content and delivery that further marginalizes BIPOC students. We should strive to create spaces of learning where everyone feels safe.”

Lippencott stressed the importance of safety and anti-racism in the learning environment. “It is my hope that faculty who are committed to being anti-racist will be sure to create curricula with anti-racism in mind.”

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the second World War, in efforts much, much better relative to compression, which means to stop the spread of commuthe people at the lower levels of the time and cost of travel has nism, the United States allowed the service industry, much better shrunk. Along with increasing unilateral trading with susceptithan the people who used to be rates of migration and immigrable nations. Having avoided the manufacturing. And what we’ve tion, technology and the media infrastructural damage of World seen with that is a concentration have been influenced by this War II, they considered themof power in where those types of phenomenon, Saff explained, selves an untouchable economic firms are located.” highlighting how interconnected power that could withstand the Often society gets caught up the world has become. competition. However, who got in the idea of blue and red states, “So, when you look at the hurt in this process and who but Saff explained geography left behind or the ‘deplorables,’ has continued to benefit is what and its relation to globalization there’s a genuine sense that they has maintained the outrage of is important. The big cities, often believe their cultural values are middle-class Americans. As located in blue states, are where lost or under constant threat, and income inequality grew in the the businesses thriving because you can argue that that’s fine.

United States between classes, of globalization are located.

[But] then social media feeds the “elites” became the enemy, However, he reiterated the local that and it becomes an echo and the former factory and mill nature of globalization, because chamber and it’s really problemworkers of middle America people are also left behind even atic,” Saff said. elected Trump as their champion. within these big cities, one of the “And that echo chamber is also While emin the media phasizing the and even in diversity and academia with “For every person making a billion dollars in a great sense contradictory nature of peocorporate finance, there are lots of low wage of conformiple’s political ty. Students workers delivering their food and cleaning the often expect ideologies, Saff explained professors offices.” that many feel to teach in a that “there’s particular way one set of and get ofrules for insiders and another set many complexities of globalizafended if they don’t want to. of outsiders, and we can’t break tion theory.

So, people have also become so in, and Trump is our voice.”

“For every person making a comfortable in their own bubbles Trump’s supporters, the billion dollars in corporate fi... [that they] actually are getting “real” Americans in their eyes, nance, there are lots of low wage offended when they’re not being are gradually being left behind workers delivering their food and reinforced or validated,” he in a system that keeps corpocleaning the offices,” Saff said. continued. rate America, Wall Street and Along with economics, culture The intolerance exhibited by Hollywood rich, while the work is fundamental when understand- many at the Capitol riots cannot they’ve relied on for generations ing globalization, and according be reduced to a side effect of moves overseas, gets outsourced to Saff, economics and ideolglobalization. However, Saff or gets replaced by machines. ogy are undoubtedly linked. explains that as our world conSaff feels that not everyone who “The neo-liberal market based tinues to intertwine, there needs was at the Capitol riots was ideology was behind the enabling to be a culture of tolerance for economically strained, but they of the type of still fall victim to the sense of globalization insecurity common in this glothat we’ve had balized world. and that ideolo“If we look at racial polarizagy, which is tion, these things have been there also about free for a long time. I’m not quite markets and sure we can attribute globalizadismantling tion to [its] increase, but I think the welfare [what] globalization has done is state, has been to create a great sense of insecufundamenrity.” Saff, while reiterating that tally, I think, some acts of hatred cannot and detrimental to should not be explained, believes the incomes of taking time to understand this many, many side effect is important. people in the “Globalization has [allowed] United States,” the winners – and the winners Saff said. are the people in finance, mostly Globalizathe people in IT, the people in the tion has also entertainment industry – those enabled time types of professions have done and cost space

disagreement. So much of what people have been fighting for in recent years is the same: peace, justice, equity. However, the conflicting sides prove people define these things differently.

According to the “elephant” graph by Branco Milanovic that describes global income growth, between 1988 and 2008 the absolute poverty rate has gone from 19% to less than 9%, and this is because of globalization.

The wealth being concentrated in a minority population at the expense of the middle class is also caused by globalization.

There was a time when unemployed Americans, though still poor, could seek help from the government. However, today, an American citizen can be working and still be poor. The events at the Capitol, along with hate, were created because there is a population of people who genuinely perceive themselves to be victims. In this complex and perspective driven debate, Saff suggests searching for an explanation for the needs, beliefs and actions of others, even when there cannot be an excuse.

“We can condemn, and we can sympathize, and we can do both at the same time,” Saff said.

“And I think we should condemn racism and xenophobia, but that doesn’t absolve us from trying to understand it. Understanding is not the same as forgiving or accepting or saying it’s good. But if we don’t make some attempt to understand, then there’s no moving forward.”

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By Betty Araya

Did globalization cause the Capitol riots?

FEATURES EDITOR

The U.S. Capitol riots at the start of the year following a rally held by former President Trump discredited a common assessment that economic “anxiety” was the reason for his election.

However, Grant Saff, professor and chair of the global studies and geography department at Hofstra University, believes stress brought on by globalization was the justification used for the events of the last four years, which peaked at the Capitol.

Like the deep-rooted racial intolerance that exploded at this historic act of rebellion, years of perceived disrespect, anger over a “rigged” system and insecurity was what lit the match. To understand the economic and political reasons for the event, Saff began by first explaining what globalization is and how our society has been affected.

“It’s a process of change at multiple scales,” Saff said. “But it’s a process that we normally see as a global process of economic, political and cultural change.” He explained that globalization was enabled by policies and propelled by technology.

“But I think it’s really important when we think about globalization to understand the geographic concept of scale,” Saff continued.

“And that’s the idea that globalization doesn’t just happen globally, but locally. What happens in one place affects another place, and it affects people differently depending on where you are and who you are.”

In this multilateral process, there have been winners and losers. The world is no longer composed of rich countries and poor countries, but rich and poor people, and a majority are at the mercy of a system that was created for reasons no longer relevant.

Globalization, though observable, is a theory-based study; therefore, defining when it began is relative. According to Saff, globalization is the period referred to as “hyper globalization,” which he explained as the time period between the end of the 1960s or early 1970s. This period allowed for “the rise of finance capital” and “the opening up of the global system.” After

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T h i s Ho f s t r a L i f e :

t h e f i l m s t u d e nt

Photo courtesy of @lallorasangre_ on Instagram Film and political science student Dejan Perich Soto posing.

By Micaela Erickson ASSISTANT FEATURES EDITOR

Senior year of college is typically an exciting time for students approaching their entrance into the real world. Long awaited projects and theses are finally coming into fruition, internships are in full swing and people are celebrating both endings and new beginnings. The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has redefined what senior year looks like for many. Students pursuing degrees in the arts have faced particularly difficult challenges. The pandemic has forced them to reimagine projects, shows and even career opportunities as they adapt to the new normal. For many Hofstra film students, this means changing how they approach senior thesis films, an integral part of their college experience. Developing, shooting and fundraising for projects of this caliber during the pandemic has not been the easiest task.

Senior film and political science major Dejan Perich Soto is preparing to shoot his senior film, “La Llorasangre.”

“Right now, we’re in the pre-

production process. We’re beginning the hunt for locations, film permits, all that stuff,” Perich Soto said. “[La Llorasangre] is a drama, and it’s already been cast.

I don’t want to spoil too much about the film, but it’s very inspired by magical realism, which was a challenge in and of itself.”

Perich Soto is an international student from Lima, Peru, and due to travel restrictions, he took classes remotely last semester.

Though he focused a lot of energy on getting his script written during his time at home, Perich Soto found it difficult to keep up his motivation at times.

“Before the pandemic I had planned a very tentative schedule. I wanted to film during President’s week, and that would have implied that everything like locations were already set up,” Perich Soto said. “The fact that I was remote last semester was sort of the first major blow.

It’s hard keeping the motivation up when everyone is in the classroom and you’re Zooming in from your middle school bedroom.”

Perich Soto feels he may have fallen below his own standards

while being remote, but he doesn’t believe he’s fallen behind his peers. As he and other seniors ramp up their preparation for filming, Perich Soto expresses his lingering fear that actually getting to shoot could be too good to be true.

“Though it’s dissipated a little after seeing a couple of people shoot without anything happening, there is always this looming fear that [shooting my film] is not really going to happen.”

Creating a senior film is a part of the college experience that many film majors don’t want to miss out on, and they are willing to adapt to ensure that their projects come full circle. Putting time, effort and faith in a project that could be taken from you in an instant is a stressful thing to gamble on. Filming during a pandemic requires very careful planning, and Perich Soto is going above and beyond to guarantee a smooth shoot.

“COVID has to be incorporated in all of your planning.

For example, in the budget we have a special section for how much we want to invest in PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) and all that good stuff,” Perich Soto said. “In the case of actors, something that I personally have done is cast two understudies for my leads. I know this is a very common thing to do in drama, but it’s not common in film at all. But I decided to do it. I’m basically paying a small fee to two actors to keep that weekend open in case one of my leads tests positive [for COVID-19]. If this happens, the understudy will show up instead.”

“I’ve been working with my director of photography to kind of figure out a way to shoot it so that it looks like a regular party, but it will have way less people.

So just for example, all of the scene is going to be shot from a middle close up to a close up.

This way you only need one or two people in the background,” Perich Soto said. He also noted how any extras needed in scenes would be people already on the production team in order to keep the number of people they interact with while shooting at a minimum. Ideally, a safe shoot is a successful shoot.

As he prepares to finally shoot his film, Perich Soto is documenting his production journey on Instagram @ lallorasangre_ film. With all the obstacles the pandemic has created, it’s exciting to see students still getting the opportunity to create art.

“As he prepares to finally shoot his film, Perich Soto is documenting his production journey on Instagram @lallorasangre_film.”

On top of accounting for PPE in production costs and making the choice to cast understudies, Perich Soto also explained how a party scene would be filmed in congruence with CDC guidelines.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash A cinematographer fimling.

FEATURES

A8 •FEBRUARY 23, 2021

Personal Essay: Escapism in the time of COVID-19

By Audra Nemirow

lack of glamour depresses me.

My thoughts turn to the plush theaters that are out there, It is tempting to start this somewhere, sleeping in the dark. essay with a quarantine cliché.

Do the ghost lights wish for You see, the old complaint, the ghosts to keep them company? one about these “deep solitudes They always did do a bad job and awful cells” (thank you, of warding the evil spirits of Alexander Pope), grates against productions past. I wonder if, in my soul. Instead, I would like their loneliness, the theaters are to begin by utterly ignoring the embracing their phantoms. Perpandemic and talking about the haps my past self is among that weather or the latest gossip, but crowd of theatergoing ghosts.

I cannot ignore Yes, my past self, the glass that my pre-pandemic cuts between self, exists in so the world and “I cannot ignore the glass that cuts between many theaters. me. Whether I see myself at the world and me. Whether it be the glass it be the glass the Film Forum of my window or the glass of my computer of my window in Greenwich screen” or the glass of Village, a firstmy computer year film student screen. illuminated by How to escape from such me from this world, but – what’s the flicker of black and white a dull topic as the pandemic? film. I am also at Lincoln Center this? I see my reflection juxtaThere is no easy answer. I tried in all my finery, weeping at opposed upon a close-up of Greta romanticizing the situation: Is eras about consumptive courteGarbo. I am reminded of where my residence hall not a tower? sans. Then there is little me, this I really am, which is in my dorm Am I not Rapunzel? But this time on the stage. She is a sylph room, in the dark, my hair damp method does not do the trick. The from a recent shower. And the dancing in a long line of ballet dancers. I want to visit her, but to do so I have to go to Queens, and I’ve forgotten the way a long time ago, even before the pandemic hit.

Most importantly, my past selves are not alone. They are surrounded by other ghosts who are applauding and weeping and dancing. Existing in the theater, whether as a spectator or performer, means losing oneself in art while also being part of something. This kind of artistic participation can be a cure for solipsism.

But it is easy to idealize the days when I had a reason to own dresses and study a subway map.

I choose to forget that even those adventures were solitary, that even then there seemed like there was glass between the world and me.

FEATURES EDITOR

real problem is not quarantine itself, it is me. It is the incessant “I” that commences each sentence about a solitary life. It is the relentlessness of my reflection in all the glass barriers.

Art offers one method of escape, even though one’s artistic preferences compose its own hall of mirrors. I lie on my bed, lights out and laptop on my stomach, and I watch films, ballets, operas ... This is intended to transport

THE CHRONICLE

Overheard Z oo m

on

“No one is funny on Zoom.”

“I can’t even overhear on Zoom because I don’t pay attention to begin with”

“I’m not even in this class. I just had to see why there was a group chat called Apocalypse on the campus connect page.”

“I am so ready to be a communist. I am one with Mother Russia.”

“If you find me a lover, I will give you an A+!”

My mind during Zoom: “If he puts us in a breakout room one more time, I’m simply leaving the meeting.”

In a breakout room: “Did you all hear any of what he was saying?

“Imagine you’re sad and your friend says, “Hey! Stop being sad!” That’s not very helpful is it?”

“Wait, so Socrates was just OK with abandoning his kids?”

Photo courtesy of Unsplash A young girl looking out the window.

FEBRUARY 23, 2021 • A9

THE CHRONICLE

FEATURES

BLAC leaders advocating for change

By Madeline Armstrong ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

Last year was a period of upheaval, especially for BIPOC communities. Following the killing of George Floyd by police, people all over the world rose up to fight adversity and stand for justice. In outrage at the lack of response, people everywhere spoke out, demanded change from those in power and took to the streets in protest.

Inspired by this, a new student-run organization, Black Leaders Advocating for Change (BLAC), was formed to make Hofstra University a more inclusive environment for students of color.

“Our purpose is to request from Hofstra different systematic demands,” said Morriah Johnson, a senior psychology major and member of BLAC. “To make Hofstra aware of the ways that Black students on campus need support and how they can give that to us.” Johnson believes that Hofstra is making “strides toward change” in favor of the

By Sabrina Blandon

BIPOC community.

“I think there are definitely more things to work on,” Johnson said, “but Hofstra has grown in many ways and shown that they do care about the BIPOC community.”

BLAC has worked with the university to accomplish an array of initiatives in the short time that they have been established.

As of now, all the demands BLAC has made have been addressed by the university and put into action.

“We did not know how well our demands would be taken by the university or by other students on campus,” Johnson said.

One of these demands was to create a Living Learning Community (LLC) for BIPOC students. These communities are residence halls on campus that are geared toward specific

majors, interests and demographics. “That will be in full function in the fall,” Johnson said, “so Black students will have a space on campus that’s specifically for them.”

BLAC has also worked with the university to set up a lounge in the Student Center for BIPOC students which will be constructed with the new offices set to go up in the new renovation. The

food options.

Furthermore, BLAC is working with Veronica Akinyi Lippencott, director of Hofstra’s Africana Studies Program, to bring more exposure to the Africana program.

“Hopefully that can go from a program to a department, so that students who go to Hofstra have the opportunity to study Africana studies,” Johnson said.

With Black History Month in full swing this February, BLAC has shown their support for the many programs put on by Hofstra and the Black Student Union, another student-run organization that promotes empowerment of the Black community.

“We are just showing up and showing out,” Johnson said, “so that Hofstra sees the need for these programs and that they

“I think there are definitely more things to work on, but Hofstra has grown in many ways and shown that they do care about the BIPOC community.”

Student Health and Counseling Center (SHACC) has just hired a new Black mental health counselor in response to their demands to have a person of color working in the SHACC, and they have also teamed up with campus dining to create more diverse

continue to have them.”

According to Johnson, BLAC continues to meet every other week with Hofstra administration to make sure that students of color on campus feel like their voices matter.

“We’re an educational institution, so we need to be educating each other,” Johnson explained.

“It’s a great time to learn how to combat biases and how to grow as individuals, so that we can all be better in the professional world.” She urges students to use the university’s reporting system to report racial injustice on campus and show up to events coordinated by Black student organizations to hear what students have to say.

“Our demands [are] not just helping students of color, it’s helping all students on campus because we’re looking for an inclusive community,” Johnson said. “When the Black community does thrive, all communities on campus thrive as well.”

Chron Cooks ft. Sabrina Blandon Ingredients:

Instructions:

1 can refried beans (honestly, half a can works if it’s for fewer than five people)

1. Prepare the fillings for the quesadilla. Cut the avocado into cubes, place in a bowl and mash until smooth.

1 avocado 1 pack corn tortillas (flour tortillas can also be used as a substitute) 1 bag sliced cheddar cheese (This can also be interchangeable depending on your cheese preference) Photo courtesy of Sabrina Blandon

While ramen and quesadillas are common meals for college students, sometimes they can get a bit boring. This recipe is the perfect way to upgrade your normal quesadilla by bringing some spices and flavors to such a simple dish.

My family enjoys this dish so much, since it’s a simplified version of my family-favorite nachos.

1 red onion (optional but adds more flavor)

2. Cut the red onion into cubes and add into the bowl with smashed avocado. Season with salt and pepper and mix.

3. Open the can of refried beans and place them into another bowl. Season with sage, coriander and garlic powder. Mix until evenly distributed.

4. Heat a pan with enough oil to fry.

5. Prepare the quesadillas by spreading enough bean mixture to cover the tortilla. Add the avocado mixture on top. Finally, place a slice of cheese on top of the prepped tortilla.

1-2 tbsp. garlic powder (measurements for the spices are not exact, depends on preferences)

6. Repeat the process for the remaining tortillas.

1-2 tbsp. coriander

8. Repeat the frying step for other prepared tortillas (I typically have this with sour cream and some chopped tomatoes to bring some freshness to it).

1-2 tbsp. sage Salt and pepper, to taste

7. Close the prepped tortilla and fry in the oil. Wait for the side to turn golden brown then flip and fry the other side.

Black History Month at Hofstra University Black History Month at Hofstra University is often honored with in-person events, guest speakers and other ways to inform the student body about the important historical events that shape Black experiences to this day. This, of course, is not as easy via Zoom, but events organized by the Hofstra University Museum of Art and the Cultural Center have allowed Black history to be acknowledged.

The Hofstra University Museum of Art contains a permanent collection of pieces from around the world and features the works in a monthly Zoom event known as “Second Fridays,” where they highlight an artist or theme. For Black History Month, they focused on the works and prints of Romare Bearden, a white artist that highlighted African American subjects and worked to uplift Black artists throughout his career. The Museum also has art by Black artists such as Elizabeth Catlett and Lawrence Jacob, as well as work from Africa in its collection that can be found in the virtual gallery.

Courtesy of the Hofstra University Museum of Art

Courtesy of the Hofstra University Museum of Art

These works by Bearden are “Siren’s Song” (left), “The Train” (right), and the background is known as “Homage to Mary Lou (Piano Lessons).”

Courtesy of the Hofstra University Museum of Art

Photo Courtesy of the John Whittington Franklin

Photo Courtesy of the John Whittington Franklin

These pictures come from an event hosted by John Whittington Franklin, a curator for the Smithsonian, where he works to preserve and discuss the events of the Tulsa Race Massacre, a white supremacist attack on what was known at the time as “Black Wall Street,” a successful hub for Black business and commerce. Franklin’s grandfather, Buck Colbert Franklin, survived and documented the events of the Tulsa Massacre, and his firsthand account was preserved and published in the book “My Life and an Era, the Autobiography of Buck Colbert Franklin.” The book was edited and published by John Whittington Franklin and his father.

The picture on the left is of Buck Colbert Franklin (right), Effie Thompson (center) and I. H. Spears (left) working in a temporary law office following the attack on Tulsa. On the right, is a picture of Tulsa after the attack by white supremacists on May 31, 1921. According to Franklin, it took “four or five years to rebuild the community,” and he described its state following the attack as “scorched earth.”

Courtesy of the Hofstra University Museum of Art

Courtesy of the Hofstra University Museum of Art

These works are from the University’s art collection. “Gossip” by Elizabeth Catlett (left), and “Confrontation at the Bridge” by Lawrence Jacob (right), are pieces by Black artists the school has acquired.

Spread by Robert Kinnaird, Adam Flash, Talha Siddiqui and Jacob Lewis

Arts and Entertainment

VOL. 86 ISSUE 5

‘To All the Boys 3’: A final love letter to the series B2 Courtesy of Netflix

B2 •FEBRUARY 23, 2021

A&E

THE CHRONICLE

‘To All the Boys 3’: A final love letter to the series

is seldom seen in movies, which are often expected to be distractions from real life instead of reflections.

This isn’t a movie that reaffirms the Photo courtesy of Glamour idea that high “To All the Boys: Always and Forever” is based off the school love is book of the same name, written by Jenny Han in 2017. forever, like CONTINUED FROM A1 most teen romance movies tend to do. Instead, it emphasizes that What makes “To All the Boys despite being a part of a couple, 3” the most successful of the both Lara Jean and Peter are their three films in the series is its own people who need to grow on candor in how relationships are their own before they can grow affected by distance, especially together. young love like Lara Jean and Another added element that Peter’s. The situations it presents, lends to the success and relatboth regarding relationships and ability of the movie is its positive family problems, are not ones representation. It’s not often that that are far removed from what a romantic comedy has a female people experience daily. All viewers can relate in some capac- lead that isn’t the cookie-cutter image of a romantic lead. Not ity to the emotions that each only are Lara Jean and her family character feels during different parts of the film. That relatability Korean, but their culture is also

embraced in the film. Rather than following the blueprint of a classic rom com, “To All the Boys” takes the time to put Lara Jean’s Korean roots into each of the three films. “To All the Boys 3” opens with the Song-Covey family in Seoul, Korea experiencing and immersing themselves in the culture of their late mother.

At its heart, the “To All the Boys” series is about family above all else. While we see Lara Jean and Peter fall in love, we also see her family grow and adapt to new changes in their lives, whether that be the eldest sister moving away for college or their father finding love again.

We even see the youngest Covey sister, Kitty (Anna Cathcart), falling in love for the first time too.

While Noah Centineo made waves after the release of the first movie, it is clear that the true stars are Lana Condor and Anna Cathcart. Their sibling relationship is nothing short of adorable and touching, and both young actresses shine on their

own. Cathcart, at only 17 years old, can steal any scene she is in with ease. Condor’s acting skills and emotional depth are constant reminders that she effortlessly carried all three movies on her back. It would not be surprising if we see a lot more from both actresses in the near future.

Despite a stellar cast, many movie franchises that have been adapted from books don’t often satisfy viewers and frequently fall flat after the first movie.

While the second movie did not hit all of the right notes, the third film tied up the series in a way that both concluded this chapter of Lara Jean and Peter’s relationship while reaffirming that their story has only just begun. From callbacks of Lara Jean’s hatbox to the song “I Like Me Better” by Lauv, everything came full circle in the end.

“To All the Boys: Always and Forever” was a perfect final love letter to the series that has been capturing hearts since 2014.

Quick Hits

Courtesy of People

“The Bachelor” host, Chris Harrison, will be taking a break for the remainder of the season.

Courtesy of Business Insider

Kim Kardashian West has filed for divorce from Kanye West after six years of marriage.

‘Internet Killed The Rockstar’ — Firsts for ‘MOD SUN’

By Kat Salmon ASSISTANT ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

On Friday, Feb. 12, MOD SUN released his latest record, “Internet Killed The Rockstar.”

It’s his fourth studio album and his second project in 2021, as he co-wrote and co-directed Machine Gun Kelly’s “Downfalls High” movie which was released in January.

Three singles were released: “Karma,” “Bones” and “Flames (feat. Avril Lavigne).” Each single had cinematic music videos, but “Flames” brought a lot of firsts for the artist. It topped Spotify charts and was his first song to be heard and requested on the radio. In a post on his Instagram story, MOD SUN asked fans to call and request the track on Los Angeles’ KROQ, something he never thought he would be asking his fans.

The album consists of 11 songs and can be listened to in only 30 minutes. In a tweet before release day, MOD SUN said to fans, “PLEASE: everyone listen

The seventh track, “Smith” is a to the album front to back ... it’s beautiful tribute to his deceased a story.” The first three tracks are father.

In the chorus, he sings the singles that were released. It “they’ll always be a room in my can be a risky move having the house, for you.”

Anyone who has singles as the first few tracks, but lost someone close to them will MOD SUN is trying to tell his be able to relate to having a place listeners a story and in order for for that person that story to in your life, make sense, even when one must they’re gone. listen to it in The chronological ninth track, order.

“Annoying” is The a modern love fifth track, song about “Prayer,” is realizing the album’s hidden you’re actually gem. It’s a falling in love. reflection of how drugs and The chorus Photo courtesy of Wall of Sound money have The album reached 15.8 million streams goes, “I think led him down on Spotify during its release weekend. I was born, for your eyes the wrong only. Never felt like this before path in life. The song’s bridge and fuck it’s annoying.” It’s a goes on to say, “I gotta grow refreshing take on how realizing up because I didn’t die young. your feelings for someone can be I finally stopped choking every a whole new kind of territory and breath I take. Let my best advice are sometimes really annoying. come from my worst mistake.”

It’s his plea for listeners not The album’s titular and final to follow in his footsteps and track was the perfect way to end the record. In a tweet, MOD realize that sobriety is possible.

SUN said that it “is my favorite song I’ve ever made ... came to me a dream, as cliché as it sounds, it really did. I woke up + captured it.” From the acoustic guitar to MOD SUN killing it on the drums, “Internet Killed The Rockstar” brings MOD SUN’s story to a satisfying conclusion.

Overall, the album is a beautiful record that anyone can listen to no matter their taste in music. Both old and new fans of MOD SUN will enjoy it, as well as anyone who wants to listen to someone reflect on their life experiences. In another tweet he says, “I played the drums on every song on IKTR + that may have been the one thing missing the whole time. My return to drums, which was my first instrument + true love, it made all the difference ... u can feel a whole other extra energy in these songs.”

Listeners can stream “Internet Killed The Rockstar” on all streaming platforms and the album can be purchased on digital platforms as well. MOD SUN also has merch dedicated to album available on his website.

Courtesy of Entertainment Weekly

“Criminal Minds” is reportedly being revived for Paramount+ after ending in February 2020.

Courtesy of Variety

Sasha Calle is set to debut as Supergirl in DC Universe’s upcoming “The Flash” movie.

Courtesy of Netflix

Tim Burton is set to direct “Wednesday,” a Netflix series based on the character from “The Addams Family.”

THE CHRONICLE

A&E

FEBRUARY 23, 2021 • B3

Taylor Swift back in the studio to re-record old songs

By Lauren Ballinger & Allie Millette STAFF WRITERS

This past month, music lovers have been introduced to a brandnew term that has made waves in the music industry and online: “(Taylor’s Version).” This phrase comes from “Love Story (Taylor’s Version),” released by Taylor Swift on Friday, Feb. 12.

Taylor Swift announced on Thursday, Feb. 11 the release of this version of “Love Story,” as well as the eventual release of the whole “Fearless” album rerecorded. That morning, she also tweeted a statement reflecting on the decision to rerecord, and her personal memories connected to the album.

So, what’s the difference between “Love Story” and “Love Story (Taylor’s Version)”? The simple answer is not much. The new recordings of her old songs are supposed to feel like nearly exact replicas, to lessen the value of her older masters. Swift did not adjust any of the original lyrics or arrangements. With any new version of anything, though, there is

Another significant aspect of After Swift left BMR, they an updated feeling to the song. the newest version is the events offered her a deal that if she were The song has a clearer mix, that led to Swift’s re-recording to sign back up with BMR, they with more room between each would give her the rights to one of her older music. Swift doesn’t layered instrument and track, album for every new allowing individual album she turned out. parts of the song to be Swift declined. After clearer to the listener. that, they sold her muThis is clear particularly in the violin and sic catalog to Scooter guitar tracks, which Braun. Scooter Braun are buried deeper in is the chairman of the older “Love Story.”

Ithaca Holdings, and Even the intro guitar, manages artists like which plucks the wellAriana Grande and known upbeat lead, Justin Bieber. sounds less twangy in On her Tumblr, “Love Story (Taylor’s Swift posted that Version)” and therefore Braun buying her feels more intentional masters was her and updated. “worst-case scenario.”

Photo courtesy of NME Besides the slight She mentions various According to Billboard, “Love Story (Taylor’s Version)“ instrumental differtimes in the past that garnered over 10 million streams, over 24,000 downloads and over 350 radio broadcasts in its first week. ences, there are minor Braun’s clients had harassed her online, and changes in Swift’s claims that Scott Borchetta, the vocals as well. Of course, there own the master recordings of the founder of BMR, knew that this is the natural confidence and songs on albums one through exchange would upset her. maturity that has developed in her five (“Taylor Swift,” “Fearless,” Scooter Braun then sold the “Speak Now,” “Red” or “1989”). voice as the result of time. In the rights to a private equity firm new version, all the harmonies For these five albums, she had a named Shamrock Capital for are done by Swift, whereas in the deal with Big Machine Records $300 million without alerting older “Love Story” a deeper voice (BMR). In 2018, she signed with Swift. Shamrock Capital reached can be heard in places where the a new record company, Universal out to Swift to let her know that Music Group. harmonies are mixed in.

they were going to be purchasing her masters. Swift was initially willing to work with Shamrock Capital. However, she learned that Braun would still be profiting off her music and described that aspect of the deal as a “nonstarter.”

This means that in order to be able to sync her music and own her own masters, Swift needs to re-record her music. This brings the story back to the announcement on Feb. 11. Swift also announced that she would be releasing six never-before-heard songs from the vault and putting them on “Fearless (Taylor’s Version).” These are songs that she considered putting on the original “Fearless” album, but eventually decided not to.

Many fans on Twitter and TikTok have speculated that the entire album will be released on April 9, 2021. This is because random capitalized letters in her initial tweet announcing the release of “Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” spelled out “April Ninth.” It will be a very exciting day in music if that is the case.

Netflix’s ‘Malcolm and Marie’ fails to meet expectations

Photo courtesy of LEVEL

Despite buzz surrounding the film, “Malcolm and Marie“ was rated 58% rotten on Rotten Tomatoes.

By Joshua Beltchika SPECIAL TO THE CHRONICLE

The new Netflix original movie “Malcolm and Marie” was released Friday, Feb. 5. The film, written and directed by Sam Levinson, starred John David Washington and Zendaya as the titular characters. An executive producing credit is given to the

latter, while a lot of creative direction and leeway was given to the two.

The trailer makes this movie look amazing, but unfortunately looks can be deceiving. The movie starts on a high note, with an intimate setting and an expository scene that magnificently builds up the tension. The banter is great, the exchanges are elec-

tric. However, shortly after about 30-35 minutes in, the film begins to fall flat. The couple argue back and forth in perpetuity, and even the harsh, triggering words lose their shock value. If one were to stop watching altogether after the first 35 minutes, they would serve to essentially see the entire plot of the film.

After toiling around endlessly, the movie throws in several different topics to galvanize the action, yet this too falls short.

It brings up themes of love, creative inspiration, privilege, abuse, neglect and the critiquing of art. The main problem is that these ideas are never explored or connected fluidly. Instead, the audience is given an endless barrage of words with no real objective. There was a moment where Malcolm goes on a drunk, narcissistic rant for five uninterrupted minutes about movie critics and the Black creators in white Hollywood. This scene

highlights the main issue of the movie; the rant, like most of the dialogue, was pointless. Granted, there is an air of realism in a meaningless rant, however it did not reveal anything more about the character the audience did not already know. It was a stylistic choice that could have been a moment of imaginative prose, effective social commentary or deep emotion, and yet featured none of the above.

The two main characters have their own issues, acting performances notwithstanding.

Malcolm is unnecessarily callous and self-absorbed, as far too many men are in real life, yet this serves no function. On the other hand, Marie isn’t that much better, often coming off as aloof and petty. In the end there is no character to root for, there is not a main lesson to take away and save for a few pivotal moments there is not superlative acting on display.

The highlights of the film mainly rest with the cinematography. The choice to shoot in black-and-white, 35mm film gave greater depth to a film only starring two people and made up for some of the weaker elements.

The camera work and the closeups were also well shot.

The medium of a work of art matters. Depending on the intent and the audience, it may be the best way to try and communicate a message. “Malcolm and Marie” would be best served as a short play rather than an almost twohour film.

One is allowed to make art for art’s sake, but this is not that.

To most who have watched the intent here is clear: a riveting, thought-provoking film designed for awards season. It turned out to be only a little above average, if only for it being shot in blackand-white film and Zendaya’s final monologue.

A&E

B4 •FEBRUARY 23, 2021

THE CHRONICLE

‘Firefly Lane’ gives a refreshingly honest view of life and friendships

The “Firefly Lane” book series is made up of two novels, “Firefly Lane” and “Fly Away.”

By Madeline Armstrong ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

Noteworthy actress Katherine Heigl is producing and starring in Netflix’s newest drama: “Firefly Lane.” This series, released on Wednesday, Feb. 3, dives into the heartaches, joy and complications of friendship. The show jumps between three different time periods: when Tully (Heigl) and

Kate (Sarah Chalke) first met as teenagers in the ‘70s, goes onto when they are figuring out adulthood in their 20s and then, present day when they are dealing with divorce, children and careers.

Based on the book written by Kristin Hannah, this show does an incredible job of creating beauty out of devastating situations. It provides a refreshingly realistic view of the messiness of life and

Photo courtesy of People

relationships.

Although complete opposites, Tully and Kate hit it off right away when they meet. Kate, who is bookish and shy, is drawn to Tully, who is confident and spunky. Tully takes Kate under her wing and a lifelong friendship is formed.

The show focuses on Tully’s very interesting and trying life, starting with her relationship with

her drug-addicted, hippie mother.

From a young age, Tully is forced to take care of herself because her mother is absent. However, she stays as strong and personable as ever, eventually becoming the host of her own talk show. There is a beauty to this type of perseverance shown so effectively in “Firefly Lane.” Tully puts on this front of being exciting and fun, but underneath she is hurt and broken.

There is a scene where Kate tells her love interest, Johnny (Ben Lawson), that Tully is the saddest person she’s ever met, but no one else seems to notice.

The series also follows Kate’s life story. Nerdy and awkward, Kate is in awe of Tully’s confidence and passion. She is the only person there for Tully during her intense and heartbreaking adolescence. However, Kate goes through her own life problems, being the only person who is aware of her mother’s affair.

Then, later in life, she deals with divorce, raising a child and her

own father’s death.

These two characters represent the two opposites of life. There are the people whose lives are obviously a mess. A drug-addicted mother and trauma cannot always be easily hidden. Tully knows she is a mess, and she knows that people can see that. However, she perseveres and overcompensates for this with her personality and success.

On the other hand, Kate’s life seems to be picture perfect, with an ideal family and job. Overall, she seems like she has it all together, but she is falling apart on the inside. Her family is crumbling and she can’t fix it.

This series has one overarching theme: no matter anyone’s upbringing, strengths, weaknesses or appearances, life is messy.

Life will always be messy, but maybe it’s possible to find a way to survive the mess with the right person by your side.

Sia’s ‘Music’ is unique and harmless

By Jacob Huller ASSISTANT ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

Before “Music,” a film directed by singer-songwriter Sia Kate Isobelle Furler, better known simply as “Sia,” was even released, people had already written it off. The controversy around the film appeared reasonable and even noble at first, as the film features an autistic character who is not played by an autistic actor.

But as the controversy raged on, it appeared, at least from my perspective as someone with autism, that the people who were upset with the movie did not actually care about good representation.

Instead, they assumed that because autism was being portrayed by a neurotypical person, or someone without a mental disorder, it was automatically going to be an inaccurate representation. However, if people had simply waited and watched the film from a less prejudicial standpoint, they would have found that it artfully shows autism in a new, creative light, portraying the disorder well.

The film centers around the

titular character Music (Maddie off her debts. Kazu has no idea my love.”

Ziegler), an autistic girl living in how to take care of Music, showThe film is interspersed with Los Angeles with her grandmother ing the difficulty caregivers often colorful, abstract music videos Millie (Mary Kay Place). Music’s face when adjusting to an autistic featuring the characters at key character is a very special addition person’s needs. Luckily, Kazu moments, showing how Music to the portrayal sees the world. of autism in This shows film, as the dishow being order manifests autistic is often very differently artsy, exaggerin girls. There ated and kind are very few of ridiculous. female autistic The bright characters in colors in these films, lending segments are light to a corner a beautiful of the autism metaphor for community that how people seldom sees repwith autism resentation. As tend to be sensomeone who sitive to light. has been in and The complex out of special choreography Photo courtesy of USA Today needs classes, shows how it Some music from the film was created by Labyrinth, member of supergroup I’ve known girls “LSD,” also containing Sia. can sometimes very similar to feel: everyMusic and can speak to the film’s has Music’s neighbor Ebo (Leslie one moving at a different pace as authenticity.

Odom Jr.) who shows her how to Music goes her own way. It would The plot of the film kicks into take care of Music – using real be odd if one failed to mention action when Millie dies, leaving techniques known to help calm the music of “Music,” made up of Music in the care of her half-sister down autistic individuals, like Sia’s songs that add to the story in Kazu (Kate Hudson), a recently applying pressure to their body, or a way not typically seen in musisober drug dealer struggling to pay as Ebo calls it, “crushing her with cal movies.

In short, the plot of “Music” is emotional and compelling, the songs are amazingly catchy and the cinematography, especially in the music video segments, is a sight to behold. It is shocking that the autism community, at least on social media, so wholly rejected the film before even seeing it.

This is a bit hypocritical, considering that there are many other autistic characters played by neurotypical actors who hardly saw any controversy and are praised to this day. This includes Dustin Hoffman in “Rain Man,” Leonardo DiCaprio in “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” Phillip Seymour Hoffman in “Mary and Max” and Danny Pudi in “Community,” to name a few.

There is hardly anything different about Maddie Ziegler’s performance in “Music,” making the controversy seem entirely unfounded – especially since she plays the character so well.

Hopefully, as the controversy fades into the background, more people will take a closer look at Sia’s latest musical venture and judge it on its own merits instead of assuming bad intentions.

OP-ED

A12 •FEBRUARY 23, 2021

THE CHRONICLE

The views and opinions expressed in the Editorial section are those of the authors. They are not an endorsement of the views of The Chronicle or its staff. The Chronicle does not discriminate based on the opinions of the authors.

Deep in the cold, dark powerless heart of Texas

By Yashu Pericherla

The state of Texas evokes images of hot summer days, barbeques on the lawn and couture consisting of tank tops and cowboy boots. And up until a few weeks ago, even in the dead of winter for the rest of the United States, that remained the case. Until the clock struck 12 and Texas saw its first actual snowfall in years. While a light powdered dusting once a year isn’t uncommon for the Lone Star state, fear set in when the snow didn’t stop. The perennially summer state received more than a foot of snow in many of its cities, breaking record snowfalls that hadn’t been seen since before the turn of the millennium. But that isn’t the story here.

This story is born from the horrendous mismanagement of the government of Texas that

led to what was supposed to be an unusually snowy season turning into a life-or-death matter for the state’s citizens.

While fingers are being pointed at Gov. Greg Abbott (R) and Sen. Ted Cruz (R) among other officials – and rightfully so – the major offender is the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). While the rest of the nation relies on national power grids, Texas is independently controlled by ERCOT, which has royally screwed over the state during this historic winter storm.

Instead of deciding to mandate up-to-code equipment standards in preparation for the extreme weather, the Texas government left the decision in the hands of ERCOT, which in turn cut costs and did not make the necessary upgrades. As a result, many people across the state were subject to “rolling black-

outs,” which weren’t executed as electric companies explained, leaving many citizens without power for days on end. Deaths due to freezing temperatures and carbon monoxide poisonings have plagued the state in the last week, hand in hand with boil

“The nation now has its eyes on Texas as it suffers through the deadly winter storm while local leaders turn a blind eye to the struggles of their people.”

water notices for many highlypopulated cities. Roads are frozen over, groceries are being limited and water has also become a scarcity along with electric power. Though, the rise in temperatures forecasted for the

The K-Hive

rest of the month is a hopeful signal that things will return to a degree of normalcy – bar the ongoing pandemic, that is. The nation now has its eyes on Texas as it suffers through the deadly winter storm while local leaders turn a blind eye to the struggles of their people. The aforementioned Gov. Abbott, who has faced the scorn of Texan citizens for his take on the COVID-19 pandemic, is now under fire for his shoddy management of the winter storm. Sen. Cruz is also facing backlash from his recent decision to flee with his family to Cancun, Mexico, during the worst of the storm and the ongoing pandemic. His apologies were underwhelming and stirred even more scorn, as he attempted to pin the blame on his 10- and 12-year-old daughters.

Meanwhile, New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez,

with help from Beto O’Rourke, raised $1 million in aid for the southern state, while the senator and his family are being forced to self-quarantine after returning to the country. The leadership of Texas has failed us as its citizens by prioritizing money over lives. Simply attempting to vote them out proved moot, given the state’s historic reputation of gerrymandering and voter suppression. Let this winter storm be a lesson to the nation.

Texas needs to be freed from a selfish, money-hungry local government and rid itself of its secessionist roots for good.

Yashu Pericherla is a junior English major from Texas. She primarily writes about pop culture and politics.

Comic courtesy of Mark Herron

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THE CHRONICLE

OP-ED

FEBRUARY 23, 2021 • A13

Congress in perspective: The stimulus check

By Daniel Cody

The leftist

The liberal

The conservative

By Leah Chiappino

By Ben Morawek

As winter storms sweep across the eastern seaboard, Americans are anticipating the much-lessthan-expected, meager comfort of a $1,400 “stimulus check.” This sum, as many know, is less than what was originally promised on the campaign trail. Talk of means-testing – a sly maneuver to exempt the allegedly undeserving – surfaced despite backlash after the ridiculously small December payout of $600. While the most recent adjustments account for individuals who earn under $75,000, heads of household who earn $112,500 and joint filers of $150,000 and upward, I find it hard to believe that Biden’s rhetorical flip-flopping and legislative messmaking will prevail. The stimulus checks are based on IRS data from tax year 2019 claims, and to put it lightly, circumstances have changed. Despite varying speculation on the economic impact of the pandemic, around one in 10 American adults can’t pay their bills, and three in 10 saw their income decrease. This is exacerbated among younger generations, with 26% of 18- to 26-year-olds falling behind on their financial obligations. And despite lighter means-testing, $600 additional per-child stimulus payouts and the $400 weekly unemployment expansions, the political abandonment of the $2,000 checks will surely create animosity among Georgia’s recent Democratic voters in the senatorial races, as candidates campaigned on that amount. Altogether, this is the very, very bare minimum, reformed only through heavy criticism by progressive and socialist organizations.

The state of the modern economy, even in its pre-pandemic condition, is not meeting the material needs of the public. Checks are good, but the newly aligned big tech and big capital coalition will automate and export labor, laying the groundwork for companies like Amazon to hijack small towns and take over the industry. Even with reform, means-testing legislation like stimulus checks show the Democrats’ willingness to give in to the GOP’s longstanding sermons of “personal responsibility” while shepherding in the interests of venture capitalists. Talking points involving monetary policy were never what the public wanted, and sacrificing common good for Obama-era Congressional deal-making was what got us here in the first place. This is echoed online with bleak yet humorous commentary – notably, tweets including images and allusions to how the Biden administration “owes” people the promised $2,000 – about President Biden’s stagnation, and users are justified in their gloom-and-doom attitudes.

They are right to be suspicious of the administration’s subtle rollback of its hazy and incoherent progressivism. It’s hard to believe that the man who helped orchestrate the 1994 crime bill will be the nation’s knight in shining armor. Biden does owe them $2,000, not $1,400. The logistics of governance and political appeal are real, but as polling shows, Americans want and need stimulus checks. The Democrats leveraged their power and won Georgia, reclaimed Pennsylvania and others, but their jarring and immediate fallbacks with the pandemic are apparent. Even Trump wanted $2,000 checks.

The upcoming stimulus package is too little too late. A study from the University of Dayton found that there were 50 million Americans facing food insecurity at the end of 2020, up from 35 million the year before. One in six children is at risk of going hungry. The $300 weekly federal unemployment benefits are set to run out in March. No American who has been seriously financially impacted by the pandemic cares about, or wants to hear partisan bickering. Nearly half of Congress has a net worth of over $1 million. It would be incredible to see any one of them live off of what they are giving the American people in COVID-19 relief. The fastest way to grow the economy is to give people money to spend. However, the current relief package is not enough. People need continuous payments until the pandemic is over.

We need those payments to include college students, many of whom face economic insecurity, uncertain futures and a lack of opportunity due to current COVID-19 restrictions. We also need to be careful not to repeat the mistakes of the 2008 Recovery Act. The $840 billion legislation was undoubtedly expensive, but it still resulted in many losing their homes, and job growth was slow. Obama went too small Two sources of the biggest holdups in the stimulus package are Sens. Kristen Sinema (D-AZ) and Joe Manchin (D-WV), as they are concerned about enacting a $15 minimum wage. A congressional budget office study found that increasing the minimum wage to $15 per hour would increase pay for 17 million workers and pull 900,000 Americans out of poverty while getting rid of 1.4 million jobs.

A way to combat the loss of jobs would be to fund small businesses properly and end the bureaucratic nightmare many small business owners face in applying for loans and aid. Instead of having a war within the Democratic Party involving Rep. Ocasio-Cortez attacking Joe Biden for not agreeing to forgive $50,000 in student loan debt, we need to increase the size of the stimulus check in order to level the playing field for those who have already paid back loans.

Maybe swing senators (who have signed on to the $1.9 trillion amount) would be more willing to adopt a policy that is actually popular in their respective home states. What a concept! Those who are struggling do not care about personal politics. They don’t care how liberal Joe Biden is and they don’t care to hear Kamala Harris on their local news station lecturing about sound policy. A large section of those who have fallen victim to the financial hardships caused by the pandemic are people of color, independents and Trump voters. Both parties realize that current economic desperation has been fueled by the declining number of jobs paired with the higher cost of living, the massive student loan debt crisis and the massive healthcare crisis. These problems got Trump elected, and they must be solved if we do not want a plethora of people like Marjorie Taylor Green filling the halls of Congress in 2022 or Trump himself making a comeback in 2024. If that means kowtowing to reasonable conservatives and Joe Manchin, so be it.

President Biden’s plan is founded on the erroneous assumption that “We can’t do too much here.” But the government can do too much; in fact, the Biden plan does so much that it’s counterproductive. First, the size of the stimulus package is disconnected from the underlying economic need. The nonpartisan Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget explains that the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) recently projected “that the nation’s output gap – the difference between actual economic activity and potential output in a normal economy – would be $380 billion for the rest of 2021 ... President Biden’s $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan would likely be enough to close the output gap two to three times over.” Even if their calculations are off, the CBO reports a massive risk of overshooting the output gap, which could lead to a number of possible outcomes including, but not limited to, higher inflation, misallocations in the economy, an economic crash and a rise in deficits.

Formulating public policy on the notion that the government cannot do too much is, therefore, a recipe for disaster. A second problem with Biden’s plan is its wasteful allocation of resources. The administration seeks to “deliver immediate relief to working families bearing the brunt of this crisis by sending $1,400-perperson checks to households across America.” But based on information from previous stimulus packages, researchers at the Harvard-based Opportunity Insights Team “estimate that households earning more than $78,000 will spend only $105 of the $1400 stimulus check they receive – implying that $200 billion of additional government expenditure will lead to only $15 billion of additional spending.” In other words, the proposed stimulus checks will be so inefficient at stimulating the economy because they’ll be sent to families that don’t need the relief.

Additionally, the Biden Administration seeks to “provide a $400-per-week unemployment insurance supplement to help hard-hit workers ... through September 2021.” But as American Enterprise Institute economist Michael R. Strain points out, “[w]ith a $400 federal supplement, around 60% of unemployed workers would receive more income from their unemployment benefits than they would from working.” If adopted, this plan “would slow the recovery and keep the unemployment rate higher for longer than would be the case with conventional unemployment benefits.” A final flaw in Biden’s plan is the call “to raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour.” The CBO reported implementing this proposal “would increase the cost to employers of producing goods and services.” Consequently, prices would increase, supply and demand would decrease, and employers “would tend to reduce their employment of workers at all wage levels.” This is patently counterproductive to the goal of building back the American economy.

There are good components of the President’s plan, such as expanding vaccine distribution and reopening schools. But these, along with a more targeted stimulus check program, can be accomplished by the more moderate $618 billion plan that a coalition of 10 Republican senators proposed earlier this month.

Daniel Cody is a sophomore journalism major from Dallas, Texas, and Carlisle, Pennsylvania.

Leah Chiappino is a junior studying political science and journalism from Smithtown, New York.

Benjamin Morawek is a junior political science major.

His Twitter handle is @BenMorawek.

A14 •FEBRUARY 23, 2021

OP-ED

THE CHRONICLE

TikTok is slowing cultural progression

By Jacob Lewis The rage of joining TikTok has permeated my personal friend circle, and friends ask me to join the app on a daily basis. I always ask them the same question: Why? Why is it so imperative that I “get on TikTok?” In response, I’ve received everything from the ostensibly logical, “You’d love it as a film major – it’s all about video editing!” to the less thoughtout but probably more truthful, “I don’t know, some of the posts are funny.” However, the response I’ve heard the most is that “they’re all made by people our age.” TikTok presents itself as a social media site where teenagers and young adults can find kindred spirits, where anyone can go viral if they’re creative enough. Their slogan, “It Starts on TikTok,” evokes the images of grassroots movements and humble beginnings.

It’s not about production value; it’s about real people telling real stories – or so they say.

Although the widespread claim is that there is a side of TikTok for every niche, all of

the sides look remarkably similar. Everywhere you look there are conventionally attractive blond and brunette people dancing provocative choreography, life hacks that lack enough selfawareness to border on parody and overly contrived pranks that require any and all disbelief to be suspended in order to find them amusing. From a marketing perspective, it’s brilliant.

TikTok has gathered the types of posts which have previously fared well on their competitors’ platforms and repackaged them as new content. The reason these types of video are so successful is because they are easily made, which encourages viewers of all backgrounds and abilities to replicate them. Because anyone can create them, each user feels they have the same opportunity to be seen and heard as anyone else.

Unfortunately, this feeling is not reality. A little less than a year ago now, internal documents from ByteDance – the makers of TikTok – were leaked and revealed that moderators were instructed to hide videos that feature people with an “abnormal body shape,” “ugly

facial looks” or a “shabby and dilapidated” background.

In non-corporate words, TikTok suppresses videos from anyone who does not fit the mold of what society deems attractive – i.e. anyone who does not adhere to Eurocentric beauty standards. What is the result of this, other than a field day for class-action lawyers? Boring and repetitive content.

“Instead of passively consuming this content that gets pushed onto our ‘For You Page,’ we need to seek out the kinds of TikToks that we believe are truly creative; the sponsors will follow.”

Now, this isn’t to say that there aren’t creative people on the platform. However, creators sacrifice their craft in order to prioritize their image – specifically an attractive, affluent one – to stay relevant on the app.

In order to elevate their status, influencers are encouraged to work with others who have

similar images so they’re more easily marketable. Successful TikTok creators are by and large conventionally attractive, white teenagers who manage to straddle the seemingly thin line between being an average teen and a celebrity who produces videos and music that do more to promote corporate sponsor interests than to showcase their talent. In essence, TikTok has brought back the era of the boyband, stagnating pop culture as a result. Instead of watching and engaging with independent creators who make valuable and thought-provoking entertainment, we are watching over-produced content that desperately tries to hide that it wasn’t shot on a whim with a three-generation old iPhone.

The reason corporations are on TikTok and regularly partner with influencers is that they too see the platform’s ability to promote easily consumable, tailored content that garners immediate feedback.

Instead of passively consuming this content that gets pushed onto our “For You Page,” we need to seek out the kinds of

TikToks that we believe are truly creative; the sponsors will follow. The truth is that TikTok has the potential to be so much more, but that potential isn’t being used.

Jacob Lewis is a freshman film studies and production major from Scarborough, Maine. His social media handle is @ jacoblewismedia.

Column: Hofstra’s Wall Street Bets

By Jack Silva The pandemic has dramatically altered the way we live our lives. By now, people all across the world have gotten used to being at home with a lot of extra time on their hands. New hobbies have emerged, as many sit around trying to find exhilaration and an escape from reality.

The stock market has been my go-to escape for a little exhilaration, as it has offered many lucrative opportunities to make a quick buck since last March. With all major U.S. indices having completely recovered and roared to new all-time highs off the lows of last March, there really isn’t a reason to believe that the stock market will ever collapse to

zero, unless you believe that an asteroid is going to hit Earth sometime in the near future.

Long-term investing is therefore the greatest way to save for the future and retirement.

However, I am here to cater to my peers at Hofstra who are hungry for volatility and can put off saving for retirement for a few more years.

Volatility is king in the world of hedge funds for all those who wish to make a significant amount of money over a short period of time, as it implies significant movement over that short period of time.

Using call options is a much cheaper way to make your desired gains rather than buying shares of a company. The catch is, you don’t actually own shares unless you exercise

the option. Also, if the price of the underlying stock doesn’t reach the predetermined call price plus the premium paid up front at the time of expiration, then your option is worthless.

Furthermore, when comparing a less expensive option to a more expensive option, the more expensive one entails less risk because the underlying stock price doesn’t have to go up as much by the time expiration comes knocking.

If you want to make a lot of money quickly and want to give yourself the best chance when trading call options, it is wise to first analyze events that drive market action such as company earnings, releases of economic data and government policy to make informed decisions.

With most of the basics of options trading out of the way, let’s get to what’s trending and why. Recently, new variants of COVID-19 that are more deadly and contagious have begun to appear, so I expect vaccine and PPE stocks to return to the spotlight when our country experiences another surge in cases. Furthermore, the work(out) at home trend is likely here to stay for the foreseeable future with these additional variants, so it will make sense when Peloton and Zoom undergo at least one more remarkable run like the one they both had during the summer of 2020.

Companies that will impact our lives in the near future should be the target of call options traders because a high

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demand for their products will eventually correlate with a rise in their stock prices.

“There is always a bull market somewhere,” says famous investor Jim Cramer, and like him, I will continue to help you find it in the next edition of Hofstra’s version of Wall Street Bets.

Jack Silva is a first-year graduate student from Katy, Texas, studying finance.

SPORTS

THE CHRONICLE

FEBRUARY 23, 2021 •A15

Parrella’s historic day propells Pride past UConn

By Jesse Lindell S TA F F W R I T E R

The Hofstra Pride women’s lacrosse team defeated the University of Connecticut Huskies 17-11 in their home opener on Saturday, Feb. 20.

Alyssa Parrella added another record to her illustrious career, as the third goal of her sevengoal performance made her the Colonial Athletic Association’s (CAA) all-time leading scorer with 222 goals, breaking the 19-year-old record previously held by Stacey Morlang of Loyola University Maryland.

“I couldn’t be more proud and

happy for Alyssa to have that record,” said Pride head coach Shannon Smith. “It’s not easy to do, especially in the CAA.” “Obviously, it’s a very honoring and humbling experience,” Parrella said.

“After a game, I look to move forward and see how I can improve in the next game.”

Six of Parrella’s seven goals came in the first half, including four coming less than 13 minutes in. Hofstra started up 4-0 in the first eight and a half minutes. A goal by Arianna Esposito later on in the half gave Hofstra an 8-3 lead with just under six and a half minutes remaining in the first.

The Huskies scored four straight goals in the final minutes of the first half to cut the deficit to one. Parrella’s sixth goal with 21 seconds remaining put the Pride up 9-7 going into halftime.

“They got three fast break goals on us, so we would definitely like to have those back,” Smith said. “We made our adjustment.”

Although the Huskies had some momentum after halftime when Lia LaPrise’s goal cut the Pride’s lead to 9-8, Hofstra answered by scoring five straight goals. LaPrise tallied a hat trick for the Huskies, as did Sydney Watson.

With the Pride up 14-8 and 20:49 remaining, a big blow was dealt to the Huskies’ comeback chances when Watson was disqualified after receiving her second yellow card.

Alexa Mattera led the Pride’s offense in the second half with three goals. Grace Langella and Esposito both scored their second goals of the afternoon in the second half. Katie Whelan added a score, and freshman midfielder Kerry Walser put in the first goal of her collegiate career.

“We’re excited to have this many goal scorers on our stat sheet,” Smith said.

Hofstra was given many opportunities with the ball thanks to Mattera and Darcie Smith. The Pride outscored the Huskies 20-10 on the draw

control. Smith had 10 and Mattera added eight.

Goalkeeper Jess Smith allowed 11 goals and had nine saves. Huskies goalkeeper Landyn White was pulled after allowing 13 goals and recording only five saves in over 37 minutes. White was replaced

in goal by Annie Carroll, who allowed four balls past her and stopped three in relief.

The Pride’s next game is on the road against Army West Point on Saturday, Feb. 27, at 3 p.m.

Hofstra Athletics Alexa Mattera had three goals in Saturday’s game against UConn.

A quick roar

A16 • FEBRUARY 23, 2021

SPORTS

THE CHRONICLE

Hofstra baseball splits opening doubleheader at Seton Hall

By Eddie Gardner S P O RT S S O C I A L M E D I A E D I T O R

The Hofstra baseball team kicked off the 2021 season by splitting a double header against Seton Hall University on Sunday, Feb. 21, at Owen T. Athletic field in East Orange, New Jersey.

The Pride suffered a tough 3-2 walk-off loss to the Pirates in game one, but rallied late in game two to defeat them by the same score.

Senior starting pitcher Jack Jett took the mound in the first game of the double-header, and fired 5 1/3 innings of one-run ball. His offense quickly got on the board in the first inning, scoring two runs off a wild pitch from Seton Hall pitcher Brennan O’Neill and a sacrifice fly from Brian Goulard.

Despite the quick offensive start by the Pride, those were the only two runs they scored in the opener. Seton Hall pitchers O’Neill and Joe Cinnella shut down Hofstra’s bats the rest of the way, escaping from multiple jams along the way.

In the fourth inning, Hofstra catcher Kevin Bruggeman was hit by a pitch and advanced to third after a stolen base and a ground out by Austin Gauthier.

However, sophomore infielder Santino Rosso struck out to end the inning, stranding Bruggeman 90 feet from home plate.

Hofstra threatened in the sixth but came up empty once again.

The Pride put runners on first and third with zero outs, but three consecutive ground outs ended their golden opportunity.

With the Pride ahead 2-1 in the bottom half of the seventh, their defense committed several errors that allowed Seton Hall to come away with the walk-off victory. Transfer pitcher John Mikolaicyk entered the game for the Pride to close it out and struck out the first batter he faced.

After the first out, things began to go South for the Pride.

Mikolaicyk recorded a second strikeout the next batter, but

a passed ball allowed for Jace Baqui to reach first base. Hofstra third baseman Ryan Morash made a bad throw to first base on a ground ball from Jerry Huntzinger, allowing him to reach base and Baqui to advance to second.

On the very next pitch, second baseman Rosso booted a ground ball hit by Tyler Shedler-McAvoy, scoring Baqui and tying the game. Mikolaicyk recorded the second out by getting Matt Toke to fly out to center field, with Huntzinger tagging to third in the process.

Seton Hall won the game the next batter after Mikolaicyk threw his second wild pitch of the inning, giving Hofstra players and fans deja vu from last season.

The Pride rebounded in game two, however, coming away with a 3-2 victory thanks to a clutch late home run from Rob Weissheier.

Jimmy Joyce got the start in the second game and continued what Jack Jett did, completing five innings of just two-run ball. After six innings, the Pride trailed by a score of 2-1, struggling to get many runs across for a second straight game.

In the top of the seventh in-

Hofstra Athletics Rob Weissheier hit the go-ahead home run in game two vs Seton Hall.

ning, the Hofstra bats returned to their 2020 form, where they led the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) in batting, and rallied to take a 3-2 lead. Gauthier led off the inning with a single to right field and advanced on a sacrifice bunt the next play. After the that, Seton Hall recorded the second out of the inning and looked like they were about to shut down yet another Hofstra scoring chance.

Senior first baseman Weis-

sheier delivered in the clutch and smacked a go ahead two-run home run over the left-center field fence for his first bomb of the season. From there, Ryan Rue closed out the game with 1-2-3 innings in the eighth and ninth, capping off a four-inning shutout relief appearance.

The Pride will be back in action on Friday, Feb. 26, at 11 a.m. for a road double header against La Salle University.

SPORTS

THE CHRONICLE

FEBRUARY 23, 2021 •A17

Martinovic powers volleyball to sweep over Stony Brook

By Tyler Martineau S TA F F W R I T E R

The Hofstra volleyball team took down Stony Brook University on Sunday, Feb. 21, in three straight sets to end the weekend 2-0. The Pride was led by senior Ana Martinovic with 11 kills, while junior Maddie Appleton tallied 27 assists.

Hofstra’s dominance started early in the first set thanks to outside hitter Zyare AbdulRahim, who contributed three points to the Pride’s five-to-one run to claim a 15-13 lead. The lead swelled to as many as eight

points before Bianca Bucciarelli ended the set with her second of six kills in her debut with the blue and gold.

“I think this is going to be the strength of our team this year. We don’t have one player that is always going to be the go-to player,” said Hofstra Head Coach Emily Mansur. “We have a lot of them, and they are going to help each other.”

The Pride’s solid play on the court was complimented

by Stony Brook’s 21 attacking errors, which tripled Hofstra’s.

The Pride’s style of play helped to capitalize on the mistakes on the other side of the net.

“Stony Brook has a very aggressive team ... and one of the big things for us was trying to stay aggressive but be more mindful of the swings we took,” Mansur said.

Hofstra made quick adjustments in the three sets to reduce their own mistakes and capture their second sweep in as many matches. Martinovic’s change in

performance was the most drastic as she entered the third set with five kills and three errors.

“She was able to turn her game up in the third ... she got five or six kills in the third set without any errors, so I think this was the biggest thing to see her not having a great match to all of a sudden to be able to turn her game around,” Mansur said.

The Pride ended the third set 25-11 to win the match and Long Island.

“We respect Stony Brook, and we know it is always going to be a good match. We both want to protect the island and want to be the best of the island,” Mansur said.

For Appleton, she showed she can step in as the main setter despite taking a few points off after rolling her ankle in the second set.

“Maddie has been very cool to see her developing as a setter.

She started the match a little but tight but then played a nice match on the setting position,”

Evan Bernstein / The Hofstra Chronicle Hofstra has now won eight straight matches against Stony Brook.

Mansur said. Appleton added a kill and two aces to her 27-assist total in the center of the court.

Hofstra takes their two wins to South Orange, New Jersey next week when they take on the

Seton Hall University Pirates on Friday, Feb. 26.

Lucy Porter’s two goals lifts Hofstra in Long Island rivalry

By Mike Senatore S P O RT S E D I T O R

After 457 days without a match, the Hofstra women’s soccer team finally took the field on Sunday, Feb. 21, kicking off the 2021 season and the team’s pursuit of a fourth-straight Colonial Athletic Association championship, starting with a win over the Stony Brook University Seawolves by a score of 4-3 at the Hofstra Soccer Stadium.

The latest edition of the Long Island Rivalry resulted in the Pride’s first win of the season.

Lucy Porter led the way with two goals, both of which came within 10 minutes of each other to give Hofstra a 4-2 lead 18

minutes into the second half.

Her first goal came off of assists from Sabrina Bryan and Amanda Ebbesson, while her second goal just 7:32 later was set up by Lucy Shepherd following a well-placed corner from Bryan.

Miri Taylor earned the honor of scoring the Pride’s first goal of the season, tying up the game 1-1 just before halftime, capitalizing on a lead pass from freshman Louise Hayden who tallied an assist in her first game with the Pride.

Bryan rounded out Hofstra’s goal-scorers, tying the game up at 2-2 when she took a Stony Brook defender 1-on-1 on the left side of the box. Bryan created space and got around the defender to set up a clean shot at the goal, and she placed her shot just out of the reach of Seawolves’ goalkeeper Emerson Richmond Burke.

“It was good and exciting for the team to get the chance to play, and I just thought, overall, beating Stony Brook is always a positive,” said Hofstra head

coach Simon Riddiough.

Hofstra maintained a formidable attack throughout the match, taking nine shots on goal and 16 shots total. The offensive load was spread among the Pride’s premier scorers, with Porter, Shepherd and Bryan taking four shots each, along with three shots by Taylor and one from Krista Agostinello.

Hofstra goalkeeper Skylar Kuzmich let three balls past her while corralling one shot from the Seawolves, while Stony Brook’s Richmond Burke had a much heftier load, making five saves on the Pride’s nine shots on goal.

“Are there places where we can improve? Most definitely,” Riddiough said. “Defending set pieces, we need to get better at.

[Having] a little more aggression to attack the ball, we need to get better at.”

The Seawolves, helmed by head coach Tobias Bischof who spent eight years on the Pride’s coaching staff, struck first when Chelsie DePonte sent a lead pass ahead of the Pride’s back

four, setting up Alyssa Francese for the first goal of the match 15 minutes in. DePonte regained the Seawolves’ lead 4:52 after halftime when she sent in Kimmy Chavkin’s free kick.

After the Pride responded with three goals in 9:25, the Seawolves trailed by two until Mari Brenden converted on a penalty kick with just under 10 minutes to play. Despite taking a corner kick at the 85:27 mark, the Seawolves were unable to create any more scoring op-

portunities following Brenden’s goal.

“It’s good for momentum,” Riddiough said, “it’s good to take off where we left off, and hopefully we can maintain this moving forward for [Fairleigh Dickinson University] on Thursday.”

After the season-opening win, the Pride will look to build upon their success on Thursday, Feb. 25, when they host Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Adam Flash / The Hofstra Chronicle Lucy Porter scored two goals in Sunday’s game against Stony Brook.

A18 • FEBRUARY 23, 2021

SPORTS

THE CHRONICLE

Two Hofstra basketball legends team up to coach NBA G-League team

By Tino Pattigno A S S I S TA N T S P O RT S E D I T O R

Hofstra men’s basketball Hall of Famers Jay Hernandez and Norman Richardson played together on the Pride from 1998 to 2001, and during that time, the team compiled a stellar 72-22 record. In his career, Hernandez scored 162 3-pointers, ranking tenth in program history, while Richardson ranks eleventh all-time in points scored for the Pride.

Under the guidance of former Pride head coach Jay Wright, combined with the talents of teammates such as Speedy Claxton and Roberto Gittens, the Pride won back-to-back Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) championships and had consecutive National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) tournament appearances for the first time since 1976-1977.

Today, the former teammates find themselves on the same team once again: this time as coaches in the NBA G-League for the Charlotte Hornetsaffiliated Greensboro Swarm.

Hernandez, who has been on the Charlotte Hornets coaching staff since 2018 serving as an assistant coach and the director of player development, has taken the reins as head coach of the Swarm, with Richardson as an assistant coach.

“I wasn’t too surprised when I got the call to become the head coach of the Greensboro Swarm for their season at the G-League bubble in Orlando,’’ Hernandez said. “Being a head coach is something that I have been wanting to do during my time coaching in the NBA. When the opportunity arose and the Hornets decided to opt into playing in the bubble, it really showed how much they valued player and coaching development, giving me the chance to remain with the team while coaching for the next six-plus weeks.”

For Hernandez, this will be his first time coaching in the G-League. Richardson, on the other hand, has had plenty of experience in that area. Richardson had been a member of the Fort Wayne Mad Ants coaching staff since 2017.

“There is not much of a difference when it comes to the NBA and the NBA G-League,” Richardson said. “As this league has grown, we have seen more teams become invested in player development and in the program as a whole. From a talent standpoint, there is a gap there but everyone in this league is working towards their opportunity to play in the NBA.” Hernandez hopes to develop a consistency with his team quickly, as the season in the bubble will be shorter than a

Hofstra Athletics Norman Richardson played with the Indiana Pacers and Chicago Bulls during the 2001-02 NBA season.

typical year, allowing less time for adjustments.

“You can expect a really uptempo style from our team this season,” Hernandez said. “A team that mirrors the Hornets right now in the sense of passing the ball and being unselfish, [as well as] playing together and making each other look good.

We are about winning games, but [also] doing it in the right way.”

The former coach of both

Hofstra Athletics Jay Hernandez coached with the Orlando Magic from 2014 to 2018, when he was hired by the Hornets.

Richardson and Hernandez, Jay Wright, took over the Hofstra Pride in 1994. With Wright at the helm, things took a turn for the better as the Pride made the postseason in three consecutive seasons from 1999 to 2001.

Wright was one of the first people to reach out to both Hernandez and Richardson when he heard the news that they will now be coaching together.

“We both have stayed in contact with [Wright] and try to pick his brain about the game,” Hernandez said. “In this situation you either want to coach or you don’t, so for Norm and I, we didn’t necessarily seek out anyone’s opinion, but we definitely seek out Coach Wright’s guidance in so many ways. He was in tears thinking about us in the coaching profession, after all of these years being together again. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

When it comes to the Hofstra men’s basketball team this season, they are looking to do what hasn’t been done since Richardson and Hernandez were playing on the same court together in 2001. After COVID-19 prevented the Pride from taking their place on the NCAA tournament bracket last year, the quest to return to March Madness is still alive, as the Pride currently has a 12-9

record and is No. 4 in the CAA’s standings.

“Our coaches used to say, ‘We won last year but we are a different group this year,’ despite having the same players,’’ Hernandez said. “It comes down to getting the most out of one another and taking things personally in practice; that way when you’re in the game it is a lot easier, iron sharpens iron.”

Richardson knows from experience how rewarding it can be to defend the CAA championship and to go back to the NCAA tournament two years in a row.

“It’s very rewarding to defend that title; everyone is hunting to take you down in your conference,’’ Richardson said. “You need to stay consistent every game. When we were defending our title, we had to stay focused on the task at hand and be ready each and every time we went out there. Winning back-to-back CAA titles is one of the best memories I have for my time at Hofstra.”

SPORTS

THE CHRONICLE

FEBRUARY 23, 2021 •A19

Farrelly coaching players both on and off the court

By David Lazar E D I T O R - AT- L A R G E

Hofstra acting men’s basketball head coach Mike Farrelly proposed to his wife by putting a ring in a cereal box. He scored seven career points at Saint Joseph’s University as a walkon. He can cook a killer grilled cheese for his two sons, M.J. and Ryan.

Farrelly is a unique man, but to his players, he is just there to help.

“Whatever these guys need is what I provide,” Farrelly said.

“I figure that out and I do it. I try to make my players comfortable. I want them to approach me, hang out in my office and have conversations outside of basketball.”

This includes some unconventional tactics. Farrelly’s motivational tools include slamming the floor, joining his bench in chants and even hugging players mid-game.

“I have to be who they need me to be,” Farrelly said. “We have gotten to the point where the team needs me to be more energetic. I will pound on the floor if we need a big defensive stop. I try to motivate and have that energy so they can feed off it.”

Perhaps the best example of this took place during Saturday’s 73-71 loss to Drexel University. Tareq Coburn struggled

early, but three minutes into the second half, he grabbed a series of offensive rebounds, prompting Farrelly to summon Coburn for a warm embrace.

“The hug? I don’t know man,” Farrelly said. “That was just a spur of the moment thing. I was so proud of him. He did exactly what we needed him to do. That was a pretty cool moment.”

It worked. Seconds later, Coburn drilled a three-pointer and the Pride was back in the game after a slow start.

“I told him, ‘How does it feel that there are nine guys on the court and they could not do anything? You did whatever you wanted,’” Farrelly said. “That is an amazing thing.”

Farrelly cites a famous Warren Bennis quote – “leadership is the capacity to translate a vision into reality” – when describing his role. Farrelly is the conductor, guiding his crew to success.

“We put these guys in positions to be successful,” Farrelly said.

“As a coach and a leader, you have to get the players to be who you want them to be.”

In his eight seasons at Hofstra, Farrelly has coached many great teams. However, none dealt with a global pandemic that changed daily life.

Gone are the days of large gatherings, parties or even playing video games in the dorms.

COVID-19 has impacted so many and that does not exclude

the Pride.

“We lost the NCAA Tournament last year,” Farrelly said.

“We do not want that to happen again.”

The men’s basketball team normally conducts summer workouts for six or seven weeks and team workouts in September and October. They did not play five-on-five scrimmage until Oct. 16, 2020, a month before their first game.

“Getting to play basketball is amazing,” Farrelly said. “We appreciate every opportunity. The NCAA required that we play 13 games to play in the Tournament and we were scared we would not hit that number.”

A cast of many contributes to overcoming this challenge.

Rachel Peel-Macandrew has worked at Hofstra since 2003 and guides Farrelly’s athletes on and off the court. “[PeelMacandrew] helps the guys get comfortable from an academic perspective,” Farrelly said. “She is the G.O.A.T and is as good as they come.”

The men’s basketball team earned a combined 3.27 GPA and sent 10 players to the Colonial Athletic Association Commissioner’s Academic Honor Roll. Peel-Macandrew is a big reason why. “It is the most unusual year of college ever,” Farrelly said. “When it is just school and basketball all the time, it can get hard. She helps

Anthony Roberts

Hofstra Athletics Mike Farrelly has been on the Hofstra coaching staff since 2013.

guide the players.”

In the weight-room, Jimmy “Weights” Prendergast has led the Pride for over a decade. At every home game, he cheers the team on from the bleachers. “[Prendergast] is awesome,” Farrelly said. “He pours his heart and soul into the program.”

If someone makes a big play, Prendergast’s screams will echo through the empty David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex and beyond. “He does such an unbelievable job,” Farrelly said. “He motivates the players and has become a leader for our program.”

On the court, there are many under-the-radar players that make the team what it is. 1,366 days separated the final game of Kvonn Cramer’s high school career and his Pride debut, but two major knee surgeries and a redshirt season could not bring him down.

“This is becoming [Cramer’s] program,” Farrelly said. The Wilmington, Del. native is averaging 9.2 points per game on 60 percent shooting and has entered the starting lineup. The sky’s the limit.

“He has these tools, gifts and energy,” Farrelly said. “How can he add to that and how much work will he put into it?

What level does he want to reach? He has a very exciting future.”

And don’t forget the spark

plug.

“Kevin Schutte is our unsung hero,” Farrelly said. “He has had some really big plays. He can be the heart and soul of our defense. He always brings the energy and plays hard.”

The junior marketing major is frequently the one leading chants and contributing key defensive stops, but he is a leader in the classroom as well.

“We target really good kids,” Farrelly said. “We want guys that will represent our program on and off the court the right way … I always say, ‘Know your role, embrace your role and perfect your role.’”

Coaching is more than just winning. For Farrelly, it is about guiding, inspiring and nurturing.

“We want to win basketball games and we need to win basketball games,” Farrelly said.

“But the relationships make it so much more meaningful.”

THE HOFSTRA CHRONICLE

Sports

February 23, 2021

The Colonial Queen Alyssa Parrella became the all-time CAA goal scoring leader during a seven-goal performace against UConn.

Jacob Lewis/The Hofstra Chronicle