Happy daylight savings!

This week was a mix between the entertainment industry triumphs and social media layoffs. As the United States economy and business world continues to settle after last week’s bank failures, new business deals are being made, and new legislation is being passed.

Willow Project

On Monday, the Willow Project was signed and passed by the President. The signed Willow Project approved ConocoPhillips’ large oil digging project on public land in Alaska. Initially signed and passed by Trump while in office has once again been passed by President Biden, however, with the stipulation of less oil pads. The passing of the Willow Project has been met with much upset and outrage, many climate activists worry about the potential harmful effects of more oil digging. It is still unclear exactly when ground will break on the new rigs. 

Meta layoffs 

Another 10,000 Meta employees lost their jobs this week. Meta is the parent company of the large social media companies Facebook and Instagram. Recently, founder Mark Zuckerberg announced his goal of a “year of efficacy,” and part of this was paring down the workforce. Last year in November, Meta had its first round of major layoffs, cutting 11,000 jobs. Meta’s choice to cut jobs has resulted in some upset from critics. Both internal and external pressure is questioning Meta’s recent management movements, from workers inside the Meta office many fear of losing their job and company morale sinks. However, Zuckerberg is unfazed by critics, rather believes he is doing what is necessary to keep the company alive. 

Wellesley College Votes for Transgender Admittance 

Transgender women will be allowed at Wellesley College. This week, the all women student body voted on allowing admission for transgender women. Founded in 1870, Wellesley has been an all women’s school since its conception. However, this week with the College’s increased value on student election, the student body showed support for more equality for transgender and non-binary students. Although the student body has spoken, Wellesley President Paula Johnson says the student vote will not effect the current admission process. 

Oscars 

March 12th marked the “biggest night for movies.” The 95th Academy Awards were once again held at the Dolby Theater in LA and hosted by Jimmy Kimmel. The Oscars brought together all of this year’s biggest stars and Hollywood’s biggest names. “Everything Everywhere All At Once” dominated this year’s awards, taking home Best Actress, Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor and Actress. Brandon Fraser won Best Actor for his work in his comeback film, “The Whale.” This year’s Oscars marked another success for the American entertainment industry. 

T-Mobile buys Mint mobile 

This week, actor and former owner of Mint Mobile, Ryan Reynolds, sold the small mobile network company to T-Mobile for $1.35 billion. Reynolds is reportedly coming back with a 300 million dollar payday. The actor bought stake in Mint in 2019, and grew the company largely through his leadership. T-Mobile also has also come out to say Reynolds will continue to stay on as a creative leader in the company. T-Mobile assures that Mint will continue to run on only $15 a month.