The Connector - February 6, 2018

UMass Lowell faculty opens new restaurant in Lowell   â–ş Page 3

THE UMASS LOWELL

Serving the Student Body Since 1976

February 6, 2018

2018 should be big season for men’s lacrosse

In This Issue

Hannah Manning

Hamilton wins council seat in Methuen

Connector Editor

â–ş Page 3

Kappa Delta Phi breaks stigma

â–ş Page 5

Blake Griffin traded to Pistons

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Final River Hawk Scores Team

Score

Overall Record

Women’s Basketball vs. Maine

L 69-51

Men’s Basketball at Maine

W 88-64 9-13

Men’s Lacrosse vs. Brown

TBD

Men’s Hockey at BC

L 5-2

3-19

0-0 15-12-0

‘Winchester?’ More like lose-chester Owen Johnson Connector Editor

Is there some sort of irony that “Winchester,� a movie about one of the most interesting houses to ever exist, is one of the least interesting movies to ever exist?

On the urging of the board of the Winchester Repeating Arms Company, psychiatrist Eric Price (Jason Clarke) is sent to the home of Sarah Winchester (Helen Mirren), the company’s main shareholder and widow of the owner, to determine her mental state.

Upon his arrival at the house, supernatural events begin to befall Price and the other occupants of the house.

What becomes apparent to anyone who has seen a good amount of horror movies is that “Winchester� seems to know that something is scary, but not why something is scary.

The movie knows that ghosts and demons frighten people, but it does not realize that keeping the ghosts and demons hidden makes the audience’s minds run wild with their own imaginations of what they look like. “Winchester� reveals its ghosts 15 minutes into the movie, resulting in it being impossible for the audience to have a fear of the unknown because they have been exposed to what they should be frightened of.

To add to that, there are also a number of visuals or ideas that feel reminiscent or like

If all goes according to plan, the 2018 season will be a seminal one for the UMass Lowell men’s lacrosse team. While the team’s transition to Division I play has been rocky, with them winning their first America East game only last season, head coach Ed Stephenson believes this will be a key season for the River Hawks going forward.

Beyond their 4-12 record last season, StephenCourtesy of UMass Lowell Athletics son points out that several of those games had Second-year captain Will Puduski says that he looks forward to the 2018 season. been close, with either them when we pulled our members that include de- Stephenson expressed team having an equal op- goalie,� said Stephenson. fenseman Will Puduski, pride with his core of portunity to take it. Ste- “We want to turn those attack/midfielder Sean talented and responsible phenson said he sees little games into wins with the Tyrell and midfielder seniors, not only on the difference in ability to experience we have com- Cory Highfield. Puduski, field, but in the classTyrell and Highfield also room. win a game among each ing back.�

UMass Lowell men’s serve as three of UMaAmerica East school. “[UMass Lowell men’s “We lost five games that lacrosse enters this sea- ss Lowell’s four captains lacrosse] has always been were within a goal late son as its first with a re- alongside senior attack/ â–ş See “Lacrosse,â€? page 7 in the game, a couple of cruited senior class, with midfielder Jon Phillips.

Popusoi wins pole vault, Darsney third in long jump UMass Lowell Athletics

BOSTON, Mass. – River Hawk senior Vladimir Popusoi (Greenfield, Mass.) won the pole vault, Saturday, to highlight a solid showing by River Hawk track and field teams at the BU Bruce Lehane Scarlet and White Invitational at the Track and Tennis center in Boston. “This weekend was about seeing some different competition; a really high level of competition from

different parts of the country,� said UMass Lowell Head Coach Gary Gardner. “It’s a great opportunity and you hope it pays dividends down the road.�

The event attracted teams from across the country and especially from the southern states. “It makes it fun for the athletes to see this sort of competition,� according to Gardner.

It is also another step in the process building toward the end of the season and various

â–ş See “Winchester,â€? page 4

Sections

News.............................3 Campus Life..................6 A&E.............................. 4 Sports........................... 8

Vladimir Popusoi has been dominant in the pole vault during his time here.

championship meets. “Nothing is ever linear unfortunately,� said Gardner. “You have ups and downs. In the last two weekends we’ve set four school records. That’s a pretty good stretch; a pretty good eight days. We’re pleased, some people that had been struggled like Vlad and Kerstin really bounced back and had big weekends for us.�

No records were set Saturday, but there were strong performances and there were bounce back performances.

Popusoi won the pole vault clearing the bar at a season’s best 16-feet 4 3/4-inches. That was fiveinches higher than any competitor cleared and it came on his first attempt at the height. “He’d been struggling a bit and now hopefully he has his confidence and will keep moving forward,â€? according to Gardner. “If you have your confidence things are alot easier. He had really good attempts at all heights today.â€? â–ş See “XCTF,â€? page 6

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February 6, 2018

OPINIONS & EDITORIALS Trump and the Mueller investigation Owen Johnson Connector Editor

On February 2, 2018, the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act Abuses at the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, also known as the Nunes Memo, was released. According to Representative Devin Nunes, the memo details a timeline of abusive and unlawful surveillance activity and relying on political bias to start an investigation into Russia’s possible collusion with the Trump campaign. After its release, as per usual, President Trump took to Twitter to claim that the memo vindicated him in the Russia probe, while ranking democrat of the House Intelligence Community Adam Schiff and republican Senator John McCain both rebuked the memo.

Despite overwhelming criticism of the memo, and with many on different sides of the political aisle saying that memo does nothing to prove abuse by the intelligence community, nor does it discredit the Mueller probe, Trump insists that it does just that. This raises the question of why Trump is so desperate to discredit Robert Mueller and the probe into possible Russian inter-

ference in the 2016 election.

The Mueller investigation has proven that there is reason for it. Former member of Trump’s foreign policy advisory panel, George Papadopoulos , was arrested in July of 2017 and was reportedly cooperating with Mueller in October of the same year. Also in October, former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort and his associate Rick Gates on multiple charges, including conspiracy against the United States. In early December of 2017, Trump’s former National Security Advisor Mike Flynn had reportedly made a plea bargain with Mueller in the ongoing Russia probe. It is an irrefutable fact that members of Trump’s campaign were breaking the law.

That fact alone should make Trump want the probe to continue. Trump has consistently made it clear that law and order is important to him. If people who were members of his presidential campaign, or who are currently serving in his administration, are guilty of criminal activity, it would stand to reason that Trump would want those people revealed.

It would also stand to reason that, if it’s like Trump has stated on multiple

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occasions that there was no Russian collusion, he should be happy about the probe. He has stated that he is positive that he will be proven innocent by the probe, which one would think means that Trump has faith in Mueller’s capabilities as an investigator to avoid bias. So, if Trump is innocent like he says, and he supposedly has faith in Mueller, then why try to discredit him at every turn of the investigation?

If it’s like Trump says, then the Mueller investigation will bring about the end of what Trump has deemed a witch hunt, proving to his political opposition that there was no criminal activity between him and the Russians during the election. The ongoing theory of Russian interference to help Trump has been one of, if not the, main hurdles to his presidency, and no one would like that to end more than he.

With all of that laid out, Trump should be the one screaming from the rooftops for the probe to continue. It would prove his innocence and would improve his self-proclaimed image of being pro law and order by showing that even his political allies were not above the law in his eyes. Instead, he has shown the exact opposite reaction than he should.

Granted, an innocent man being investigated for a crime he did not commit would make anyone annoyed or even angry, but they would not try to undermine the investigation at every obstacle. There have been multiple reports of Trump considering the possibility of trying to fire Mueller, and there was talk that he was floating around the possibility of a pardon in Mike Flynn’s direction.

Trump’s own proclamations state that he is innocent, but his behavior does not suggest that. His behavior suggests that he has something to fear

from Mueller, if he is trying to buy those who were close to him’s silence with a potential presidential pardon, or trying to fire the man investigating him, which is how he first got in trouble with the firing of former FBI Director James Comey in May of 2017.

The facts are this: Trump is under investigation for obstruction of justice based on firing James Comey, who was investigating his campaign for potential ties to Russia. Four members of Trump’s campaign and administration have been indicted, and some of those have agreed to deals with Mueller, including Papadopolous, Flynn and Steve Bannon. Trump’s behavior goes against what a self-proclaimed innocent man would do, such as attempting to get rid of the person investigating him or and trying to discredit not just Mueller, but his own intelligence community, his most constant target being the FBI. To quote a Tweet from White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders from November 3, 2016, “When you’re attacking FBI agents because you’re under criminal investigation, you’re losing.�

If Trump is truly innocent, he needs to allow Mueller to continue his probe and figure out the full reach of criminal activity that was committed by members of Trump’s campaign and administration. If he is guilty, for his own sake he needs to do the same, otherwise he will go down sooner.

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February 6, 2018

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NEWS

Crepes and the City welcomes all Kelly Skelton Connector Editor

A new restaurant has arrived in Downtown Lowell with a unique concept and healthy options.

Crepes and the City, opened in November, offers a diverse menu of crepes and breakfast oriented delights. Located on 144 Merrimack Street, the shop’s location is convenient for students from UMass Lowell as well as Lowell High and Middlesex Community College.

Co-owners Hichame Asrary and Ferney Lopez are no strangers to Lowell. After immigrating from Morocco, Asrary obtained his bachelor’s degree in chemical energy engineering and obtained his master’s degree in energy engineering. Asrary is also working on his MBA. On the other hand, Lopez brings to the table a fine arts degree with a concentration in graphic design education and hails from Colombia.

The duo now works in the Public Relations department at UMass Lowell. Asrary is a Quality Assurance technical trainer and Lopez is senior web designer. As full time employees of the university, the co-founders manage their team on lunch breaks and work at the shop on Saturdays.

Asrary’s coworkers were aware of his background in the culinary arts and asked him to bring something in to taste at the office. Asrary brought in his crepes and the rest was history. Lopez, Asrary’s colleague, immediately recognized the opportunity and the two teamed up to create Crepes and the City with their passion for food and love of Lowell.

Crepes and the City’s menu offers traditional

crepes featuring Nutella, fresh fruit and whipped cream. However, their specialty menu features the idea of the “traveling crepe.” With this idea, the restaurant offers a crepe flavor from a different culture each week. For example, this week’s selection is from India: the Tandoori Chicken.

As visitors will notice, the owners are passionate toward paying homage to the city of Lowell. The restaurant’s walls are decorated with photos of the city in the early 1900’s as well as pictures from the present day. Described perfectly on their website, Crepes and the City says, “It has been our privilege to be in Lowell during an extraordinary period of

transformation, a dynamic revitalization of the city that keeps going with each new success”.

Before the opening of their storefront, Asrary and Lopez traveled to Mill No. 5 in Lowell and SoWa in Boston to gain recognition. The pop-up shops were such a hit that they knew a physical storefront was needed.

The restaurant has aspirations to expand their hours of operation and become more accessible through delivery, online ordering and catering.

Crepes and the City offers a 15 percent discount student discount. They are open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m.

Courtesy of Crepes and The City Facebook

Crepes and the City is a new restaurant that opened in Downtown Lowell.

UML’s Hamilton is Smashin’ Every Expectation Poli-Sci student takes his shot and wins Methuen council seat Katharine Webster UMass Lowell Press Relations

Ryan Hamilton is learning political science on campus – and on the job.

Last fall, the sophomore won an atlarge seat on the Methuen City Council. This month, he was sworn in as possibly the youngest councilor in the city’s history. He is 20 years old.

Hamilton ran on a platform of improving infrastructure and being accessible to all of the city’s 50,000 residents.

“I have a bright and shining vision for the future of my city,” he says.

“That vision starts off with being held accountable and transparent in showing the citizens of Methuen where their money is going, especially in repairing infrastructure.”

Hamilton says he was always interested in government, but decided to go into politics after taking an advanced placement U.S. Government class during his senior year at Methuen High School. His interest only solidified after he started taking political science classes at the university.

“It was a great time to be following politics because of the 2016 presidential election,” he says. “So I got

hooked on it. Plus, I like the whole aspect of public service and community service.”

His extended family got behind his campaign, with many of them putting their lives on hold during the final push from Labor Day through Election Day on Nov. 7. Although none of them had ever sought public office, many had been involved in local political campaigns, and one of his uncles served as his campaign manager.

For the fall semester, Hamilton arranged to take all his classes before 11 a.m. so he could go home to Methuen and campaign in the afternoons. His old friends from high school and new friends on campus helped out, too.

“My friends and family thought it was time to give the Methuen political establishment a run for its money,” he says. “My friends held signs on the weekends and went door-to-door.”

Hamilton says he got lots of encouragement from his professors in the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, especially Patricia Talty, who teaches classes on Congress and the legal system, and Asst.

Dean Francis Talty, whose specialty is public policy. They shared some of their observations about political cam-

paigns in Lowell. And after Hamilton won, Patricia Talty brought a cake to class to celebrate.

Hamilton has also enjoyed classes on political psychology, communication and international relations with Assoc. Profs. Morgan Marietta and Joshua Dyck and Visiting Prof. Noel Twagiramungu. Some of the classroom lessons have helped him in practical ways, but he also appreciates the opportunity to step back from the dayto-day of local politics and see the big picture.

“I like the separation. Being able to talk freely on campus is great. We have an exchange of ideas and then we leave it in the classroom, and in the end we’re all friends,” he says.

Hamilton says he became focused on Methuen’s infrastructure needs after taking a tour of the sewer maintenance division of the Public Works Department. He realized the city’s aging sewer system wasn’t getting enough attention, he says.

“It’s something you just don’t see until it’s broken,” he says.

He also wants to help the city develop a GPS-driven app that shows, in real time, the locations of all the city’s school buses. He got the idea from

UMass Lowell’s Roadster Routes app, which shows the routes and locations of campus shuttle buses.

“My goal is to prevent kids from having to stand out in the cold for long periods of time and to alert parents when a bus breaks down,” he says.

Most of all, he wants to encourage all of Methuen’s citizens to participate in the political process and work together for the city’s improvement. He says that at Methuen High School, which is very ethnically diverse, all the kids got along. He’d like to carry that spirit into City Hall.

“In a country that’s a political, social and racial tinderbox, Methuen was a great place to grow up and experience such inclusion,” he says.

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February 6, 2018

CAMPUS LIFE

A sisterhood that fights the stigma Ann Kurian Connector Contributor

With chapters spanning across the east coast, the members of Kappa Delta Phi National Affiliated Sorority (N.A.S.) breaks down the stigma surrounding Greek Life and brings a new perspective on what it means to be apart of a sorority here at UMass Lowell. Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S (also known as KY) makes up one of the four sororities on campus and one of 10 Greek Council organizations at UMass Lowell.

The recent years have brought the negative stigma surrounding sororities to the forefront of college and university life. With horror stories of hazing incidents and binge drinking accidents, sororities are too often viewed as party-first organizations. The women of Kappa could not be

“We are sisters who stand for philanthropy, academics, fundraising and sisterhood.” farther from that fallacy. The sorority paints a picture of strong women in leadership who strive for the utmost success on and off campus. .Incorporated in 1977, Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S.’s purpose is to promote academic achievement, to encourage community involvement through philanthropy and to cultivate the everlasting bonds of sisterhood. The Kappas embody the values of leadership, generosity, charity and integrity.

Their mission as a sorority is to encourage higher educational ideals, to promote a spirit of citizenship, individual character and fellowship, and to oppose discrimination, on the basis of race, color or creed, in order to strengthen and preserve the bonds of sisterhood.

Courtesy of UMass Lowell Engage

Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S. is one of only four sororities on the campus of UMass Lowell.

A few sisters shared their thoughts on how being a sister of Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S. and why they wears the letters: “When I transferred to UMass Lowell I didn’t know anyone and really wanted to become an active member on campus. I stumbled upon Greek Life and after attending KY’s events; I knew that the sisters were genuine, kind and amazing people and I was immediately attracted to an organization that emphasizes philanthropy and academic success. I am so thankful I put myself out there because I found my best friends for life,” said Lauren LeBlanc, a senior majoring in political science with a minor in criminal justice.

“The sorority paints a picture of strong women in leadership who strive for the utmost success on and off campus.”

“I joined Kappa because I found a community of girls who I could relate to. They instantly felt like people I have known my whole life and have now become my family. We are sisters who stand

Courtesy of Ann Kurian

The members of Kappa Delta Phi N.A.S. are focused on eliminating the current stigma of sororities.

“We strive on giving back and making our world a happier and kinder place.” for philanthropy, academics, fundraising and sisterhood. This year we are raising money for the Alzheimer’s Association to raise awareness and funds for preventing Alzheimer’s and dementia through education and advocacy. Some of our other philanthropy events are focused on volunteering to Boston Children’s Hospital Cancer unit donating cards and arts supplies, homeless shelters in Lowell, the Boys and Girl Club Inc., the Great Strides cystic fibrosis foundation, and St. Jude’s Hospital. We strive on giving back and making our world a happier and kinder place,” said Tatiana Mammolette, a junior majoring in psychology with a minor in criminal justice.

Interested in meeting new people with similar goals and values? Enjoy volunteering and making a difference in your community? Get to know the sisters of Kappa Delta Phi (N.A.S.). If interested in being part of the sorority, please contact the sorority’s recruitment chair, Tatiana Mammolette at Tatiana_Mammolette@student.uml.edu.

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February 6, 2018

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT ‘Winchester’ is boo-ring ►Continued from front page homages to other horror movies, such as M. Night Shyamalan’s “The Sixth Sense” or Tobe Hooper’s “Poltergeist,” though they are reminiscent in look or idea only, not in execution. It seems like the most thought put in to copying these homages was someone saying, “Hey, this is a horror movie, and these popular horror movies did this. Let’s also do that.”

With zero understanding of how to make something scary, the movie is quite dull. To add to that dullness, the movie is incredibly boring.

For starters, there is no investment to be had in anything on screen. The characters are all uninteresting and one-dimensional, if the characters even rise to that level. Clarke and Mirren’s characters have one defining character trait each: Mirren feels guilty and Clarke is skeptical (even though the reasons given for his skepticism just make his character look like an oblivious moron), and any attempt to flesh them out is a spectacular failure due to poor execution. There are the side characters of Winchester’s niece (Sarah Snook) and great nephew Henry (Finn Scicluna-O’Prey) who only exist so that something of importance can happen in the movie, and whose characters are so non-existent that they could be replaced by rocks with the characters’ names painted

on and the same effect could be had.

Then there is the lack of imagination that plays into the film being an absolute bore. The Winchester Mansion is a labyrinth of random rooms, doors and staircases, some of which lead nowhere.

There is even dialogue in the movie where WinCourtesy of Lionsgate

“Winchester” was directed by twins Peter and Michael Spierig.

chester’s niece tells Price that the house can be difficult to navigate. The movie has a unique location and countless settings to utilize for creative scenes and scares. “Winchester” does none of this. Its fail-

ure to utilize its location makes the movie a generic haunted house movie, and it begs the question why even make it about the Winchester Mystery House at all if the filmmakers are not going to be creative with their creative setting?

The telltale sign of the movie’s failure, however, is not its lack of scares or its palpable dullness that makes the hour and 40 minute movie feel like 2 1/2 hours, but by the performances given by Mirren and Clarke. Mirren has been nominated four times for an Academy Award and won once, and Clarke has been making a name for himself the past half-decade, appearing in dramas like “Zero Dark Thirty” and blockbusters like “Dawn of the Planet of the Apes,” and it could not be more apparent how little either of them care. Mirren looks bored in almost every scene she is in, and Clarke is not giving it his best. When two talented and reputable actors are not taking the movie seriously, it is obvious there is something wrong.

This movie is a true atrocity. It could easily be in the running for one of the worst horror movies ever made, one of the worst movies ever made and one of the most boring movies ever made.

Final Grade: F

‘Monster Hunter’ is back and better than ever Vernon Gibbs Connector Staff

“Monster Hunter: World” is a game that is rich with detail and challenge in equal measure. Released worldwide on Jan. 26, “World” is the ninth installment in its series that has reached the west. “World” takes the pre-established concept of the “Monster Hunter” series and enhances it in every known way. The player takes up arms as a hunter, journeying to the expansive New World and bearing witness to nature’s glory while trying to not get killed by it.

“World,” while making strides, is also loyal to the traditional “Monster Hunter” formula. An action role-playing game (RPG) at its core, the hunter must challenge the insurmountable threats of the local wildlife. Progression is not tied to any level system, instead being shown through getting better equipment and the player’s own skill. With 14 separate weapon types to choose from, the player will never feel uncomfortable with whatever playstyle they use. They can play aggressive with the dual blades, wait for an opening with the lance, attack from afar with the bow and use many other playstyles over the course of a single hunt. The differences between each weapon can make or break an experience, and such a situation is handled wonderfully with this system.

But one cannot be a “Monster Hunter” without a monster to hunt.

“World” features 20 all-new monsters, varying in both difficulty and characteristics. Whether the player is on a jolly slaughter of the local Jagras, or running in terror from the fire-breathing Ajanath, they each provide a

different kind of hunt for the player.

“World” focuses heavily on improving the hunting experience, turning the barren arenas of previous games into a fleshed out environment. Environmental hazards now play a role in every hunt, both threatening the

fire-breathing dragon, Rathalos, could become the player’s next weapon, imbued with the same fiery power. Those very scales could also become a pair of gloves, carrying with it the rugged defense of its predecessor. Every kill on the hunter’s list marks an opportu-

Courtesy of Capcom

“World” is the first “Monster Hunter” game to be released simultaneously in Japan, Europe and the U.S.

player’s safety and offering a plan of attack against a nearby monster. The hunter can use the hazards as traps, pit the monsters against each other or even just throw rocks at it. This newfound mechanic breaths fresh air back into “Monster Hunter,” providing a new and interesting hunt for both the veteran and greenhorn.

When the monster eventually falls, its hide torn and broken, the hunter is rewarded with the materials of the very beast they took down. It is here that the long-term appeal of “Monster Hunter” begins, where the player wonders what they could do when they take their loot and turn it into something new. The scales of the

nity for change, and to take their spoils on the next hunt. “Monster Hunter” is known for its long runtime, and this system is the reason why.

With “World’s” leap from Nintendo’s handhelds to Sony’s Playstation 4, it is able to astound the player with its visuals. With this upgrade came a shift in art style, taking full advantage of its new platform with more detailed designs. It is not realistic, but “Monster Hunter” was never meant to be that. The more stylized elements accent this game’s aesthetic nicely, and achieve the breathtaking graphics without losing its charm. “World’s” soundtrack is slightly weaker and less pronounced than the games before it,

but it also serves in emphasizing the beauty of its world over its bombastic fights. If one is a stickler for appearance, then “World” is the choice to pick.

Despite all the good things “World” has brought to the series, there are still some minor grievances that hold it back from a perfect score. Monsters are more prone to fleeing than in previous titles, and this combined with the larger map sizes can lead to a hunt becoming a wild goose chase.

“World” takes steps in making the series more accessible for newcomers, and has ironed out certain mechanics that only adds to a greenhorn’s confusion. But with every mechanic smoothed out, there are two more that “World” added. Information overload is a very real problem when first entering the “Monster Hunter” series, and “World” failed to make a noticeable impact in lowering the bar for entry.

This struggle to understand the game can be a major turn-off for a player, and may lead to them dropping the game altogether.

“Monster Hunter” has been a hit series in Japan, but had struggled with gaining a western audience. Ultimately, “World” was made with the intent to fix this problem, and to grow its community as a whole. To that end, “World” has become the biggest selling title in the series, and is sure to be the reason for more “Monster Hunter” games to come. Should one pick this game up, the story can be completed in 50-60 hours.

Final score: A

February 6, 2018

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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

‘The Chi’ attempts to defy racial stereotypes Emily Toomey Conector Staff

Showtime’s breakthrough series “The Chi” is working to defy the typical stereotypes associated with Chicago’s South Side neighborhood and show a more humane side instead.

The riveting cast allows the show to standout and hold its ground. The show is filmed from an insider’s perspective rather than an outsider’s, which allows it to feel that much rawer and bonafide.

The main plot throughout the series is to show the different lives of residents in the South Side community and how violence has impacted them.

The young characters are struggling to get by and stay out of trouble while the older characters just sit back and watch. They are intertwined with a sense of redemption as they all work toward making a better life for themselves.

In order to make the show seem even more realistic, the creator chose to focus on multiple characters. The key theme of time and consequence are prevalent in all the characters’ lives. The aspect of multiple characters makes it easier for the viewer to connect with them, but only makes it that much harder to follow the complexity of the show. Having no protagonists only focuses on the fact that everybody is created equal. A greater sense of community is present without a protagonist. The viewer can only wonder if all the characters will inter-

twine and become connected by the end, or if their stories have more in common than one would think.

One of the most inspiring characters, Brandon (Jason Mitchell), has completely changed the way the view-

Having so many young characters throughout the show only helps it to succeed more. The young characters have a sense of impulsivity that is hard to find with the older characters.

Some of the best scenes throughout

Courtesy of Showtime Networks

“The Chi” has been renewed for a second season.

er sees a violent neighborhood. Brandon has the most potential out of any character as he inspires to open his own restaurant with his girlfriend.

Brandon defies all the typical stereotypes associated with inner cities, and allows the plot to have a promising future. In a way, Brandon allows the plot to have a good versus bad guy vibe, doing so only takes away from the overall message of the show and does nearly the opposite. The show wants to focus on the humane side of the residents, but only focuses on one character when doing so.

come from the younger characters as they are both extremely specific and sometimes emotional. Violence experienced in the younger characters’ lives on the show feels more realistic.

Their fate is far more important in those moments because they still have their entire lives ahead of them. Are the young characters created to appeal to a younger audience, or simply to highlight the consequences of certain actions?

The show’s main weakness is the lack of a protagonist and the focus on too many characters equally. The

show is hard to follow at times, but the characters make it worthwhile for the viewer to keep watching. Each character is faced with a struggle they are trying to overcome that ultimately keeps the viewer on the edge of their seat. Will the characters make the right decision, or will they be stuck facing the consequences of a bad one?

What is unfortunate is that the creator, Lena Waithe, wants to break the typical stereotypes associated with minority inner city neighborhoods, but does not completely succeed. Some of the characters, however, only feed into their stereotypes. The lingo they use is still very expected, and the use of the N-word only takes away from the show’s authenticity. How can the show succeed at defying stereotypes if it still keeps the lingo and attitudes associated with them?

Overall, “The Chi” succeeds at creating an action-packed plot filled with a unique perspective of the lives of those in South Side. The show, while not racially diverse, does still succeed at showing diversity among the South Side. The show feels raw and authentic. The stories are much like those of the real people living there and the characters still feel incredibly relatable despite the fact that many viewers have experienced completely different lives than theirs.

Final Grade: B

‘Culture 2’: Migos’ new album is lengthy but exciting Matt Kaiser Connetor Staff

Last year, the Migos trio changed the music industry with their debut album “Culture,” and their first number one single “Bad and Boujee.” This year, their new album “Culture 2” is not making the same splash that their previous music was able to accomplish. In the past year since “Culture” was released, countless artist have tried to imitate the sound that made these Atlanta rappers huge stars.

Unfortunately for the genre of rap as a whole, this resulted in lots and lots of trap songs that sound relatively the same. This is one of the reasons that “Culture 2” is not being received as well as expected, because their sound is no longer original and the formula is no longer fresh. With that being said, “Culture 2” is not a bad album by any means.

There are lots of standout songs that have interesting beats and great verses, but the real problem here is there are far too many songs, 24 in fact. The album as a whole is one hour and 45 minutes, which is honestly way too long. The outcome of this is lots of forgettable songs, and lots of sounds that seem indistinguishable.

The production on the album is influenced by many different people, from Metro Boomin and Murda Beatz to Zaytoven and Buddah Bless. Kanye West himself is even credited with “additional producing” on the track “BBO.” There are lots of new sounds on this album as well, from the saxophone on “Too Playa” to the up-tempo guitar on “Narcos.”

“Walk It Talk It” is another standout song, with the verse from Drake being nothing ground-break-

ing, but still good nonetheless. Offset and Takeoff both have excellent verses on this track, and their fast flow goes quite well with the background. Unfortunately, the chorus is extremely repetitive almost to the point of being annoying, and consists Courtesy of Quality Control Music

There are 11 musicians and band credited as performers on “Culture 2.”

of Quavo saying, “Walk it like I talk it,” over and over again.

“White Sand” is one of the more colorful songs of the album with features from Travis Scott, Ty Dolla Sign and Big Sean. This collection of artists provides a diverse and varied sound throughout the song, and it is a shame that Travis Scott was not

on more of the album because his voice and vocals accompany the Migos sound quite well.

Two songs that deserve extra praise are “Too Playa” and “Narcos.” “Too Playa” features 2 Chainz, who has an outstanding repertoire of providing great guest verses for a whole host of artists. The saxophone in the beat delivers an original sound, giving the song an interesting vibe. Quavo’s hook on the song is catchy as well, and his voice goes well with the overall atmosphere. “Narcos” is one of the best songs of the album, and the beat on it is excellent, featuring a Latin sounding guitar with accompanying drums. Takeoff has an especially fun verse here, and his fast flow and lyrics are delivered well.

One of the singles released before the album, “Stir Fry,” is one of the best Migos songs to date. It is a rather different sound than typical Migos, with a happy, up-beat instrumental and very catchy chorus. The music video was recently released, filmed in an Asian restaurant with the Migos comically acting as ninjas in a movie-style kung fu scene.

As a whole, the album is filled with interesting and forgettable tracks alike. Had the album been cut nearly in half, it would have been received much better and contained less unmemorable filler songs.

However, with 24 songs total, there is definitely a lot of music to like here. With the Migos also recently teasing new songs with Kanye West, there is no shortage of Quavo, Takeoff and Offset for fans to enjoy.

Final Grade: B+

UM ASS L OWELL C ONNECTOR

Page 7

February 6, 2018

SPORTS Track and Field impresses at BU meet ► Continued from front page

Popusoi’s vault tops the America East Performance List for the event.

Teammate sophomore Heath King (Newton, Mass.) finished fourth in the pole vault clearing the bar at 14-feet, 11-inches on his final try. The vault also puts King fourth among America East competitors this season.

Senior Kerstin Darsney (Rowley, Mass.) finished third in the long jump, second among collegiate athletes, with a leap of 18-feet, 8 1/2-inches.

“It’s great to see because she (high) jumped so well yesterday and came back today with a good long jump,” said Gardner. “That was one of the things that this weekend was about; competing on back-to-back days just as you have to at the conference meet.

Competing well over two days in a row bodes well for what lies ahead.”

There were other strong performances as well. Junior Sean Munnel-

ly (Litchfield, N.H.) turned in a strong time in the 800-meters. He clocked at one-minute, 50.62-seconds. It is the fastest time recorded by an America East runner this season, but at this meet it was good for 13th place, ninth among college athletes.

Senior Katherine Equi (North Andover, Mass.) turned in a time of 2:12.66 in the 800-meters. It was good for tenth place. It put Equi sixth among conference runners.

“It was a great performance,” said Gardner about Equi who ran away from the rest of the field in her section of the event. “She ran really really well.”

Senior Alli Wood (Chelmsford, Mass.) finished third in the 1,000-meters. She turned in a time of 2:50.94.

The time is the second fastest by an America East competitor this season.

Courtesy of UMass Lowell Athletics

Senior Kerstin Darsney finished third in the long jump at Boston University.

‘Slow process’ gears to rev up for 2018 men’s lacrosse season ► Continued from front page

number one or two in each of our first three years academically in the conference. We’ve set this year, with our first senior class, to be number one and never relinquish that. That’s what I had done when I was at Binghamton and certainly that’s been our goal here,” said Stephenson.

Stephenson and his coaching staff work hard to make sure that winning games does not jeopardize their players’ academic and personal success.

In establishing a positive culture at UMass Lowell, Stephenson said that he and the other coaches limit practice time during the week and the amount of road games that they play in order to make sure that the players can focus on school.

On the field, Stephenson said he praised his senior athletes for their willingness to take charge of practices and embrace their leadership role on the team. He also said he thinks back on how much the seniors have changed since their freshman year and is struck by the difference in how they hold themselves and participate on the team.

“I really just sat back the first day of practice and smiled,” said Stephenson. “These guys are doing a great job leading.”

Puduski, a second-year captain, is ready for him and his fellow captains to guide a more polished group of lacrosse players through this season. He says that one of his goals for himself is to become a better leader beyond improving his own game statistically.

“I’m hoping to be able to lead us through those close games that we lost last year,” said Puduski. “I think that’s our biggest area for improvement.”

The team starts with a month-long span of games on the road and will play their first home game on March 3 when they take on Monmouth at Cushing Field. This does not particularly bother Puduski.

He points out that while it is difficult to play on the road, if the team can win there, it should be that much easier to win at home, as well.

Stephenson was similarly untouched by it, saying that his priority in scheduling was to have an even split of road and home games. He got his wish, as

Courtesy of UMass Lowell Athletics

Head coach Ed Stephenson thinks that the 2018 season will be a turning point for the River Hawks.

UMass Lowell will play at home eight times during the 15-game season. The important bit of the season will be the latter part of the season, when the River Hawks enter conference play.

Perhaps a key surprise factor will be the sizable freshman class debuting this season. Stephenson said that with such a big roster, each player is vying hard for a spot on the starting squad. But he says that he noticed that the freshmen are especially competitive and may likely play several minutes out on the field “very early on.”

Stephenson points to midfielder Dominic Giachello, attacks Harrison Morrill and Jake Lining, and defenders Jack Hinken and Tyler Ward as freshmen to look out for this season.

Puduski and his fellow captains have been focusing on helping those freshmen adjust to the Division I game. “I think what’s most important is our leaders of the team can take the guys who might have not been in those close games before, and kind of take them under their wing,” said Puduski.

But like his head coach, Puduski said he is very

impressed with the newest addition to the UMass Lowell squad.

“They’ve really stepped right up to the plate and haven’t really hesitated to show off their skills and grit down on some ground balls,” said Puduski.

Beyond introducing the crop of freshmen this season, both Stephenson and Puduski say they hope to excite UMass Lowell students and lacrosse fans around New England.

Puduski is focusing on capitalizing on the support of the growing number of fans at home games and looks forward to later in this season’s schedule to give them something to keep coming back to Cushing Field.

“Getting those wins at home are huge for the fan base,” Puduski said.

“We’ve seen our fan base growing each year and I think the level of competitiveness this year is exciting. I invite everybody and anybody that is a lacrosse fan, or even if they’re not, to come out and watch [UMass Lowell],” said Stephenson.

UM ASS L OWELL C ONNECTOR

Page 8

February 6, 2018

SPORTS Blake Griffin traded to Detroit Matt Kaiser Connector Staff

On Monday, Jan. 29, the Los Angeles Clippers declared a trade with the Detroit Pistons that sent their five-time all-star power forward Blake Griffin, as well as center Willie Reed and forward Brice Johnson, to Michigan. In return, the Pistons sent guard Avery Bradley, center Boban Marjanovic, forward Tobias Harris and two draft picks to LA. Griffin was drafted by the Clippers in 2009 as the first overall pick, however in his final pre-season game he injured his knee and missed the entire season. The next year, as a rookie, he shattered various Clippers’ records and also became the first rookie to play in the all-star game since Yao Ming in 2003.

Much of Griffin’s career has suffered from injuries, but he is still known for his commanding athleticism and emphatic dunks.

The Clippers as a franchise have been plagued by injuries for many seasons; this season in particular forward Danilo Gallinari and guards Pat Beverly and Austin Rivers have missed much of the season. In the past, Griffin’s injuries have frustrated the team and made playoffs much more difficult for them.

After taking time to digest the recent events, Griffin tweeted, “I am so proud to have been part of the success of the Clippers organization. LA has been my home since I started in the league and I will be forever grateful to the city for embracing and supporting me… Now I’m ready for the next chapter, getting to work and helping the Detroit Pistons make a run in the Eastern Conference.”

Another interesting piece of this trade is Avery Bradley who made his home in Boston in the past few seasons. He was one of the last Celtics players to play in the “Big Three” era alongside Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett. Last year he was nominated to the NBA All-Defensive First Team,

and he is widely praised for his hustle and athletic defense.

Bradley has continued to improve on the offensive end throughout his career as well, and it is interesting to speculate how he will perform with the Clippers. Clippers head coach Doc Rivers has also had the pleasure of coaching Bradley before, as Rivers was head coach of the Celtics for many years. This trade seems to favor Detroit at the moment, but Bradley’s elite defense cannot be underestimated.

The other two players sent from Detroit, Harris and Marjanovic, have shown that they are close friends, posting various funny videos of them together on Instagram and Twitter. It is good to see that they get to continue their careers together, and hopefully their friendship will help the overall team chemistry in Detroit.

The Piston’s current all-star center Andre Drummond has expressed his excitement for Griffin joining his team. He remarked in a postgame interview that, “It’s a new chapter, we’ve got three new guys coming in, so it’s something to really look forward to. Obviously, Blake is a hell of a player, a great passer as well too, so I’m looking forward to building this new empire with him.”

This trade shocked the NBA sports world, and it is the biggest mid-season trade that the league has seen so far this season. So, as the Clippers package and trade players for assets, perhaps they are preparing for an even bigger trade to make moves this season. Detroit, however, is preparing to create an elite team for the playoffs, and it will be interesting to see who the long-term “winners” of this trade will be.

U P C OM I N G

River Hawk Games Tuesday, Feb. 6

7 p.m.

MICE vs. AIC

Thursday, Feb. 8

7 p.m.

MBB at Stony Brook

Thursday, Feb. 8

7 p.m.S

WBB vs. Stony Brook

Friday, Feb. 9

7 p.m.

MICE at BC

Saturday, Feb. 10

1 p.m.

MLAX at Quinnipiac

Saturday, Feb. 10

All day

XCTF at BU

For more sports information and full game schedules visit goriverhawks.com

Courtesy of Clutch Points

Griffin was notified of his trade from the L.A. Clippers to the Detroit Pistons over Twitter.

River Hawks top Maine, 88-64, in Wednesday night clash UMass Lowell Athletics

BANGOR, Maine – All five River Hawk starters scored in double figures, as the UMass Lowell men’s basketball team (9-13, 3-6 AE) topped Maine (5-19, 2-7 AE), 88-64, on Wednesday evening.

Redshirt-senior Jahad Thomas (Williamsport, Pa.) recorded his second consecutive double-double with 19 points and 12 rebounds to pace the River Hawks. Junior Ryan Jones (Rio Rancho, N.M.) added 18 points, while senior Matt Harris (Erie, Pa.) finished with 16. Redshirt-junior Josh Gantz (Grove City, Ohio) and sophomore Rinardo Perry (Washington, D.C.) rounded out the double-digit scorers with 12 and 11 points, respectively. As a team, UMass Lowell shot 54.1 percent (33-61) from the field.

“I thought this was as good of a game we’ve played since I’ve been here,” said Head Coach Pat Duquette. “It’s tough to get road wins, but to be in control from start to finish is even harder. We handled our lead really well this time. We were disciplined and we kept playing the right way.”

The teams alternated baskets and were tied on three occasions in the opening minutes until Gantz sparked an 18-4 run that included a trio of threes and was capped off by an and-1 from Thomas to put the River Hawks ahead, 12-10 with 12:50 remaining in the first half.

The Black Bears worked back to within eight, but layups from Thomas and freshman Obadiah Noel (Frederick, Md.), and a rare, four-point play from Harris gave the visitors a 32-16 lead at 9:43. Maine cut the difference to singledigits three more times in the period, two of which came inside the final four minutes, although the River Hawks would tally six of the last seven points to take a 49-35 edge into the break.

Gantz grabbed an offensive rebound and notched his squad’s first bucket coming out of halftime. The River Hawks maintained at least a 10-point margin before scoring 13 in a row to open up their advantage to 65-42 with 14:41 left to go.

UMass Lowell’s largest lead of the night came at 76-47 following baskets from Thomas and Gantz. Maine gained some momentum in the waning

minutes, outscoring the River Hawks down the stretch, 17-12, but it was not enough to overcome the visitors’ offensive output.

Aaron Calixte led the Black Bears with a game-high 20 points, while Andrew Fleming logged 12.

Wednesday’s contest marked the 11th meeting between UMass Lowell and Maine in the sport of men’s basketball. The River Hawks now lead the all-time series, 8-3. The squad starts February with a pair of road games beginning at Stony Brook on Thursday, February 8. Tipoff for that matchup is slated for 7 p.m.

Courtesy of UMass Lowell Athletics

Sophomore guard Rinardo Perry played 27 minutes against Maine on Wednesday and finished with 11 points as the fourth double-digit scorer on the River Hawks.