Hey Patriots, 

As the semester picks up, so does flu season. So I want to remind everyone that self-care and health comes first. As I read this first sentence out to the room, Jack, the assistant opinion editor rolled his eyes at me and said, “Yeah, do a face mask to fight the flu.” 

As cool as that sounds, I’d also recommend a flu shot, which is free at any CVS. 

Despite the sporadic reports on the coronavirus sweeping the globe, and briefly, Mason, there has been some good news this week as well. Virginia has finally ratified the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). This means that there are now enough states that have ratified the bill, and it could become federal law very soon.

On top of that news, I’m super excited to share the great content our staff put together for you guys this week.

Mason’s presidential search is well underway, and our News section provided you guys an update this week.

Our Culture section is bringing us one final story by Izz LaMagdeleine, the former assistant culture editor. Izz is planning on transferring to another university, and I am sad to see them go. They have been an excellent reporter, editor and friend over the years, and I can’t wait to see their journalism career take off. 

Nayomi Santos is our new assistant culture editor, and I have nothing but high hopes for her future at the paper and the creativity and ideas she has already brought to the section. 

One new item the Culture section has brought is a column called “The Bookshelf,” where Mason students can review all their favorite novels. 

In our Sports section, a Mason student paid homage to the late basketball player Kobe Bryant, and it’s more than worth the read. 

One writer in our Opinion section compared themes for previous film adaptations of “Little Women,” and explained the importance of the film in today’s society. 

As always, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, feel free to reach out to us at masonfourthestate@gmail.com. 

Sincerely, 

Dana Nickel

Co Editor-in-Chief