Category: Opinion

Column: White House group chat reveals what we should really focus on

Art by Sam Ottinger.

by Tyler Anthony

Once again the fascistic phenomenon that is the Trump administration has made headlines with its incompetence. On March 24, Jeffery Goldberg — former IDF prison guard and editor-in-chief of The Atlantic — reported that he had been added to a Signal group chat containing members of the Trump Administration. 

The group chat discussed the bombing of the Yemeni supposed terrorist organization “The Ansar Allah,” also known as “The Houthis.” Goldberg assumed it was nothing but a prank until the bombs actually started falling. 

The Atlantic article and other large media corporations responded to this situation by attacking the incompetence of the administration. Yes, it is incredibly ignorant management, but the texts themselves should be subject to scrutiny. 

The media has not responded to the plain-as-day texts that speak of a situation that involved bombing a suspected terrorist’s girlfriend’s entire complex, only the boyish behavior exhibited in their words. None of these media organizations have responded to the casual bombing of civilians. Therefore, none of the media should be trusted.

It should go without saying that the situation in the Middle East is extremely nuanced and should only be approached with an understanding of each of these group’s actions, goals and effects they have on and within the region. 

So, who are these groups?  

The American and Israeli governments, and Hamas and Ansar Allah, who have all exploited the Yemeni and Palestinian people, through ruthless violence and extremist ideology.

The media remains very removed from the Ansar Allah, referring to them by the name of their now dead ideological figurehead, Hussein al-Houthi. We must ask ourselves: Why does the media so simply write off one group as the terrorists? Why do corporate media conglomerates swing radically to the right, but swing only moderately to the left? What changed in our culture to incite this?

Of course these questions are all indicative of wider systemic issues, but the skepticism should still hold when dealing with how we identify groups of people. Why do the masses accept that the Ansar Allah are simply radical terrorists, while our government and its allies are not. 

But how could I say this? Well, let’s define some terms.

The United Nations classifies terrorism as “criminal acts, including against civilians, committed with the intent to cause death or serious bodily injury, or taking of hostages, with the purpose to provoke a state of terror.”

Merriam-Webster defines “radical” as something relating to the root or origin, fundamental, extreme, or favoring extreme change, often used in political or social contexts. 

The Ansar Allah is an insurgent group in Yemen. The attacks they have perpetrated on cargo ships in the Red Sea — often referred to as simply “The Red Sea Crisis” — are from their point of view to stand in solidarity with Palestine and the genocide in Gaza. However, the U.S. government frames them as terrorists. 

The claim from the U.S. government, in Donald Trump’s own words, is that the Ansar Allahs “piracy, violence, and terrorism” had cost “billions” and put lives at risk, that it is Iran who is funding them. Iran denies this, claiming purely ideological support. Notice how the first concern was the money. 

In the text messages within the White House group chat, these infantile men casually gloat and exchange emojis, while talking about the bombing of a suspected terrorist’s girlfriend’s apartment. How could you say this isn’t inflicting terror? So many lives were devastated and taken in an attack on someone who was suspected a radical terrorist and judged as such.

My point isn’t to moralize the Ansar Allah, but to compare what they are being labeled as to the U.S. government. And, yes, I am talking to you, the average U.S. citizen. I do not acknowledge the oppressive actions and propaganda of our government as indicative of my true beliefs of Truth, Liberty and Peace. 

These ideals are not utopian or naive. They are the future, a future we can all start building to. 

by jhshyphen

Column: Cultural grants are essential to building bridges between nations

by Sarah Yves-Baloucoune

When politics starts touching social life, it doesn’t always turn out well.

From his Jan. 20 Inauguration to the writing of this article, Donald Trump has signed 75 executive orders, primarily focusing on government reform, immigration, border security, and more. 

His policies started with the legal recognition of only male and female genders by signing executive orders proclaiming that only birth assigned sex matters. Ever since the beginning, he had the idea and opened a manhunt for immigrants, even citizens if they have no proof of citizenship on them at the moment, but also Native Americans because the tribal IDs don’t count as proofs to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

His actions were questionable, like firing and un-firing nuclear workers, but in this article, let me present to you one of the lesser known but still present realities of people being put at risk due to the cutting of funds. 

 In a society built on money, we will always find a group in need of support. In a world built on international relations, we will always find a country that is overlooked, such as the less rich and popular developing countries like mine, Senegal, but also more famous ones like Argentina.

The funds given by the government were financing non-profit organizations like Child Protective Services, as well as scholarships and grants.

Cultural grant students are students chosen by the host country to share their cultures and impact their local communities in order to create bonds and make friends and families around the world. 

However, exchange students are in great dread. 

The funding cuts have affected the lives of thousands of students in high schools and colleges. The system of grants for students depends on government funds.

“Cultural grant students are students chosen by the host country to share their cultures and impact their local communities in order to create bonds and make friends and families around the world.” 

They create bridges between countries and communities, opening people’s minds to diversity and helping people know and discover the unity of each culture and take the best of each to make life better.

What if these bridges didn’t exist? 

The world would be doomed. In a world like ours, making peace with everyone is the only way to survive. 

What if a country with a lot of resources decided to collaborate with a country that has a lot of knowledge? Two spirits making one strong body is the best way to improve and make life easier. 

The development of the world would have been pretty much slower if the relations between countries weren’t as good as they are now. As an example, people around the world have access to plastic, which was created in Belgium, or petroleum, which is from Saudi Arabia.  

Without these diplomatic exchanges between them all, there would be no long and cheap conservation of products with plastic containers, no fuel for the cars and machines with petroleum, nor a lot of small objects we all have in our lives like scissors, gardening tools and sewing equipment.

But with the new policies, nothing is sure. The kids who were supposed to be connections between two lands and create a friendly bond between the two countries might never come.

As a result, the home country and host country might not work together again and, even worse, stop acknowledging the existence of one another. 

Until today, the future of the grant student programs is unknown, and this may be the last time we will see grant students in the U.S.

by jhshyphen

Column: Fascism slowly seeps into America — What is to be done?

by Tyler Anthony

There is an oligarchical, absurd, and distinctly American phenomenon that has been plaguing this country. U.S. Fascism is the biggest danger to societal freedoms and signifies the fraudulence of “The American Dream.” We must recognize this. This is the road our leaders have walked us down, but by letting go of their guidance we can forge a path to far more individual freedoms and real liberty.    

The U.S. Empire was built on the back of exploitation. The moment the pilgrims began their slaughter of the Native Americans, the spirit of U.S. Fascism was born. The pilgrims needed a class to oppress to contribute to the British Imperial machine.

120 years after that, slaves were brought in from Africa for the first time. 160 years after that the U.S. invaded Mexico. 15 years after that the country was so split on slavery that they warred over it. Hundreds of thousands of people lost their lives because the rich didn’t want to give up their free laborers. The rich couldn’t stop themselves from engaging in the cruelest of human behavior in exchange for the gain of capital. 

The one institution that separated the power of capital from the power of politics was democracy. That separation has become smaller and smaller with every passing year, and now we’ve found ourselves fully submerged in a Fascist Oligarchy. A country that once revolted against the powers of imperialism now stands as the biggest imperial force on the face of the planet. Our ruler is a venture capitalist who conned himself into the presidential role, then was bought out by Elon Musk.

Over $250,000,000 was donated to the Trump campaign. To the average person, that money would completely change the course of their and their families’ lives. To Elon this was just .07% of his wealth. How could you be the single most powerful man in America and still be for the people. The answer? Elon is not. Trump is not. 

Feux-Populist rhetoric has elevated the status of Elon Musk and Donald Trump among Republicans to working class heroes. They have an iron grip on the government and culture and are inching us closer to World War III. This is a scary thought, yes, but it’s time to consider the fact that this may really be the road we’ve gone down. 

In fact, during the creation of this column there have been two major events that have dipped us further into fascism — Trump’s trapping of Zelenskyy and his aggression against Greenland. Inviting Zelenskyy to be disrespected at the White House was anything but a subtle tell of whose side he’s on. Nor is his praise of Russian Oligarchs as “Very nice people.” 

This poses the NATO question. What does Europe do if America leaves NATO? Europe has been very vocal in support of Ukraine. If America secedes from NATO then nothing stands in its way. Trump has been very open in his imperialist rhetoric. His talk of taking Greenland “One way or another “ should strike fear into the hearts of our politicians, but as long as the heavy wealth of the lobbyists lines their pockets, no one will take a stand. 

We can’t rely on politicians; we have to rely on the community. We need to take America back from the ground up.  Put aside our grievances with each other and fight fascism. Politics has become far too much of a popularity competition. It’s time to retake it as the people’s voice. 

Become involved in your community. Write articles for it. Get involved in homeless shelters, even run for office — anything to have some real populist control in this country.

The rapid escalation of Trump’s presidency into a fascist oligarchy has happened at such an incredible rate that we have got to put away social differences to fight this or we will all pay. Except the ones who have the money.

by jhshyphen

Column: Government vs Business: a Look at Elon Musk in Government

by Ifrah Daber

Elon Musk, standing as the current richest person in the world. His wealth amounts to over 300 billion dollars, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index as of February 2025. He found his success in companies like Tesla, SpaceX, xAI, and Xcorp, along with the social media app, formerly known as Twitter. 

Due to this success, his strong shift into politics and especially his outspoken support for President Donald Trump in this most recent election was sudden, especially given his moderate views in the past. He tweeted in 2018. “To be clear, I am not conservative.” He stated that he was independent and voted for Democratic candidates for many years. So when he opened his wallet to give over 250 million dollars to Trump and his allies campaigning last year, it was directly opposed to his past words and opinions.

These new opinions and support, also came with a new position in government, a brand new department, focused on making the governments spending more efficient. Appropriately, they named it The Department of Government Efficiency, DOGE for short. 

Given Musk’s new position in the Department of Government Efficiency, some Americans have seen this as exactly what the government needs to handle the high costs of living and lower their taxes. However, others see this as completely unethical and a blatant disregard for middle-class Americans in favor of the 1%. 

To understand both sides, one has to understand exactly what both sides believe and how Musk’s actions are perceived, along with what exactly he has been doing since his appointment as a special government employee. 

A special government employee is a role in Congress that allows branches of government to bring in employees temporarily for specific roles. They are usually used as consults and can only work for no more than 130 days in a year. 

So what power does that give Musk? Mostly, he is the same as any government employee. He can be given information, including sensitive information, if it is relevant to his job. So he was fully in his right as a special government employee to have access to the Treasury Department payment system, since he’s employed to try to find out how to make the government, specifically the economic side, more efficient. 

Some lawyers are concerned about this role for Musk, especially given the possibility of him breaking the rules and laws of his position. Specifically, critics worry about the Hatch Act, a federal law that was created in 1939 that prohibits any department employees, including special government employees, from engaging in partisan political activity while performing their duties or on federal property. 

On Feb 11, Musk went to the Oval Office wearing a “Make America Great Again” hat, which might have been a violation of the Hatch Act. However, the Office of Special Counsel, which would be the one to enforce the law, has not made an official announcement on Musk’s choice of hat wear.

However, the Government Executive, a news site, has quoted Laura Nagel, an employment lawyer who represents federal employees, to say that she views the use of “political paraphernalia” as a violation of the Hatch Act. So there is a debate on the topic, but nothing official has come of it so far. 

But Musk’s wardrobe aside, most of his supporters care more about what he has promised and not what he chooses to wear. Musk has taken the responsibility and his focus on cutting waste, using the Department of Efficiency as his way to do so. At the first Trump Cabinet meeting, Musk spoke of how the American debt is unsustainable and that America will go broke without some sort of drastic change. 

“That’s the reason I’m here,” Musk stated in regard to the national debt. He said he was confident that he could find 1 trillion in savings. He claimed that his efforts were motivated by saving money for the taxpayers. 

This position is one that many hear and naturally support, especially given the rising cost of living for average Americans. A poll done by J.L. Partners in late February found that around 60% of Americans viewed their tax dollars as wasted by the government, and 67% supported DOGE’s purpose to save their tax money. In addition, a Harvard Caps/ Harris poll found that over 70 percent of Americans support the U.S. Government Agency focused on the efficiency initiatives, and along with 60 percent believe that DOGE is helping cut major government spending. 

However, 58% of voters in Harvard Caps/Harris say that DOGE should not have access to sensitive information on Americans that benefit from government programs, such as names or social security numbers.

DOGE has claimed to make large progress in this; they posted receipts on their website “doge.gov” having a total of 65 billion dollars in savings, but there are discrepancies in the actual amount that has been saved, including mislabeling amounts, claiming they saved 8 billion in ICE contracts when it was 8 million, as well as reportedly listing the same 650 million savings from a contract with USAID multiple times as new savings. Along with other inherent errors, many were called out by media organizations like CBS and Politico. 

Musk has prided himself for being transparent, which is the original reason he created the website. He acknowledged these errors at the Oval Office: “Some of the things I say will be incorrect and that should be corrected.” 

Despite these inconsistencies, he still praises his organization and himself. He spoke at the Conservative Political Action Committee, wielding a gifted chainsaw, claiming it was a metaphor for how he would “take a chainsaw to bureaucracy.”

So, what exactly have DOGE and Musk accomplished?

Starting early, Musk started using tactics that are similar to when he took over Twitter, now “X”. He immediately tried to downsize, to get rid of any employees and programs that were deemed to be a waste, it being “obvious,” he’s quoted as saying. He sent out emails demanding that employees of multiple departments list the tasks they completed, as well in some instances revealing names and titles of people that he wants to cut, making them public targets for the people. Musk and Trump have also tried to freeze Congress-approved funds, an illegal act. 

But what likely is the most controversial is that it’s clear that those who support DOGE want fast change and are willing to deal with the “temporary hardships” that Musk stated would come for ordinary citizens. A perfect example of the “ends justify the means” is that even if there are some mistakes, to many, it is seen as a necessary investment. 

Though there are still many against Musk and DOGE, many of their reasons are through the lens of political ethics and the possible red tape that DOGE has crossed in pursuit of it’s goal. 

 New Mexico representative Melanie Stansbury spoke out directly about how she condemned the actions of DOGE. She said in her opening statements at a Subcommittee meeting, “Donald Trump and Elon Musk are recklessly and illegally dismantling the federal agencies, shuttering federal agencies, firing federal workers, withholding funds vital to safety and well-being of our communities.” 

Other Representatives, such as California representative Robert Garcia, said, “We should not stand by as the richest man on the planet gives himself and his companies huge tax cuts while the American people get absolutely nothing.”  

Many of these ethical concerns are made worse given how much Musk’s companies have received in funding from the government, along with how closely his companies work with the government. Elon Musk has reportedly received at least 38 billion in federal contracts, loans, subsidies, and tax credits, according to data from the Washington Post, including a reported 456 million dollar loan from the Department of Energy. Throughout the years, the amount of money he’s received has grown.

The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, when asked about the possible conflicts of interest, simply said that Musk would determine for himself if there are potential conflicts with his business. With very few checks and balances, many are anxious that Musk could run rampant with no one to stop him.  

This has led to many states suing Musk and President Trump on the basis that the authority he had over DOGE was unconstitutional. 

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes even referred to DOGE as “the whims of a single unelected billionaire.” Mayes argued that the Appointments Clause of the Constitution was violated when Trump created DOGE since the agency was created without congressional approval and gave Musk too much power as a special government employee. 

“He has transformed a minor position that was formerly responsible for managing government websites into a designated agent of chaos without limitation and in violation of separation of powers.”

Currently, 14 states have sued Trump and Musk over what they believe is an abuse of power. The large concern for them is clear: the idea of such a wealthy man in government is unethical, and he is given too many privileges. 

There is also controversy of the programs he’s already cut, from slashing over 80 independent research contracts at the Institute of Education Science, firing FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) workers, the explanation being that the organization was allegedly spending money on housing migrants in hotels. DOGE also fired workers at the National Institute of Health that focused on dementia research. 

The USAID organization, that is focused on providing humanitarian resources around the world, was targeted by DOGE, Musk claiming it to be a criminal organization,  and that funds are used for deadly programs. Though many of USAID’s programs that are frozen greatly impacts millions around the world. This including but not limited to, clinics in Africa for HIV patients, and the “Safe Mobility Offices” in many South America countries, a plave were migrants could apply to be legal citizens.

Though DOGE’s said goal is to get rid of waste and corruption, many who oppose Musk would argue that these programs are anything but waste, that they are vital to those who depend on aid from the United States.

Which side you stand on depends on how you view Musk, how you view his position, and if you believe that he can make ethical decisions given his position. It’s clear that the people need a change, that there is frustration in the cost of living, but is DOGE the answer to that? Or is this hatchet style of cutting funding going to do more harm in the long run for the people?  We the people will just have to wait and see.

by jhshyphen

Column: Loving the single life: Fun ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day solo

by Brian Juarez

Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples — it’s the perfect time to celebrate self-love and independence. While the world may be filled with heart-shaped chocolates and romantic dinners, being single doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun.

This day can be an opportunity to treat yourself, spend time with loved ones, or indulge in activities that make you happy. Whether it’s a solo adventure, a night of relaxation, or a gathering with friends, there are countless ways to make the day special.

So, instead of dreading Feb. 14, here’s  a list to do on Valentine’s Day single:

  • Buy yourself a gift, whether it’s chocolates, flowers, or something you’ve been wanting for a while.
  • Run a bubble bath, do a face mask, and watch your favorite movie with a glass of wine or tea.
  • Go to your favorite restaurant or coffee shop, or take a fun adventure like a museum visit or scenic walk.
  • Binge-Watch a series or movie marathon – Watch rom-coms, thrillers, or anything that makes you happy.
  • Host a Galentine’s or Bro-entine’s Party – Gather your single friends for a fun night with food, drinks, and games.
  • Cook or Bake Something Special – Try out a new recipe or bake some festive treats just for you.
  • Take a break from all the Valentine’s posts and focus on yourself.
  • Read a book, paint, write, play an instrument — do whatever brings you joy.
  • Buy yourself something special because you deserve it!
  • Take a Short Trip or Staycation – Visit a nearby town, book a hotel room, or explore a new place.
  • Write Yourself a Love Letter – List all the things you love about yourself and what makes you amazing.

Being single on Valentine’s Day is just another reason to celebrate yourself. Do whatever makes you feel happy, loved, and fulfilled.

No matter how you choose to spend Valentine’s Day, remember that love isn’t just about romance — it’s about celebrating yourself, your happiness, and the people who make life special.

by jhshyphen

Review: Buca di Beppo provides a taste of Italy with a side of nostalgia

by Emma Parker

Regarding family-style dining, Buca di Beppo is a name that often stands out. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and hearty Italian-American dishes, this restaurant promises a ballad of flavor nostalgia, and communal dining. But does it truly deliver on its reputation? I visited Buca de Beppo, and here’s what I discovered.

Buca di Beppo: A Taste of Italy with a Side of Nostalgia

Buca di Beppo is a restaurant that knows how to make an impression from the moment you walk through the door. With its warm, inviting ambiance and quirky décor that celebrates Italian-American culture, it’s the kind of place that feels like stepping into the home of a big, boisterous Italian family.

Ambiance

The décor is over-the-top, with walls covered in vintage photographs, posters, and eclectic knickknacks. Strings of lights and checkered tablecloths create a fun, nostalgic vibe. The layout features family-style dining rooms and even a “kitchen table” for those who want a behind-the-scenes experience. While the atmosphere is lively and vibrant, it may feel noisy for those seeking an intimate or quiet dinner.

Service

The service is friendly and accommodating, with staff members eager to explain the family-style menu concept. They are attentive without being overbearing, ensuring drinks are refilled and dishes arrive promptly.

Food

Buca di Beppo specializes in Italian-American classics, and their portions are designed for sharing. Here’s a breakdown of some highlights:

• Appetizers: The Fried Mozzarella and Bruschetta are crowd-pleasers. The mozzarella is perfectly crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and paired with a robust marinara sauce.

• Pasta Dishes: Their Spaghetti with Meatballs is a signature dish, and it doesn’t disappoint. The marinara sauce is tangy and fresh, while the meatballs are tender and flavorful. The Fettuccine Alfredo is creamy and indulgent, though it can be a bit heavy for some palates.

• Entrées: The Chicken Parmigiana is a standout, with its crispy breading and generous layer of melted cheese. The Eggplant Parmigiana is also a great vegetarian option, though it leans on the richer side.

• Desserts: The Tiramisu and Chocolate Chip Cannoli are decadent and satisfying, making for a perfect sweet ending.

Family-Style Concept

The family-style dining experience is both a strength and a potential drawback, depending on your party size and preferences. Large groups will love the communal feel, but smaller parties may find it challenging to justify ordering multiple large dishes.

Price

While the portions are large, the pricing can feel a bit steep, especially if you’re dining with a smaller group. However, for the quantity and quality, it’s a reasonable value for those looking to indulge.

Overall Experience

Buca di Beppo is a fantastic choice for celebrations, family gatherings, or casual dinners where you want to enjoy hearty Italian comfort food in a fun, lively setting. While the noise level and portion sizes may not suit every diner, the restaurant’s charm and bold flavors make it a memorable dining experience.

Rating: 4/5

by jhshyphen

Review: Metaphor: ReFantazio is a step above the gaming competition

by Sarah Jacobs

The 2024 Game of the Year Awards was a tough contest. Three of the best games I’ve played in a long time were nominated for the prestigious title, but one stood above the rest: Metaphor: ReFantazio.

Although it didn’t win Game Of The Year 2024, Metaphor: ReFantazio won multiple awards at The Game Awards 2024, including Best Narrative, Best RPG, and Best Art Direction. It is critically acclaimed for its beautiful art style and story.

The king’s assassination is causing anxiety in the kingdom because he is assumed to have no heir. Unbeknownst to the public, the prince was put under a curse many years ago. He is alive, but he has been unconscious since the curse was cast. A good friend of the prince, Will, and his closest confidant, Gallica, are tasked with finding a way to reverse the curse and return the prince to the throne. At the royal funeral, the late king’s magic manifests as a stone island large enough to block out the sun bearing his face. He announces that the people will decide on the next king. Will decides to win the throne in the prince’s place.

Characters and their arcs are handled beautifully by this game’s narrative. The world feels expansive, and it’s easy to get invested in the problems facing this world.

It won Best Art Direction at The Game Awards 2024, and it earned that title. The menus take on a painted style. The art and character designs are visually stunning. The mix of 3D and 2D makes the visuals compelling throughout the entire experience.

The cast is easily one of the most likable. The party includes characters from a variety of fantasy races, and their race and upbringing play an obvious role in how they see and interact with the world.  

The voice acting in this game is one of the most impressive aspects of the game. The English voice cast features largely unknown actors, each of whom excellently brings the characters to life. The variety of accents creates the impression of a vast world.

Metaphor: ReFantazio is a step above its competition in the JRPG genre. Few other games have gripped me in the same way. I highly recommend anyone who is a fan of JRPGs check it out.

by jhshyphen

Column: WJHI teaches real-world skills

by Izzy Wemes

Junior Cassidy Tomlin works on a project in the WJHI studio. She said, “I’ve learned a lot, how to be professional, make eye contact, be a technical director who switches all the cameras, and more.” Tomlin’s favorite part is to do games because they’re intense. One thing she finds hard is keeping up with the news. Photo by Izzy Wemes.

As I walked through the doors of WJHI for the first time, I was struck by the sight of collaboration and hard work that filled the space. It was clear that this was a supportive learning environment, where students were not just classmates, but active partners in each other’s academic journeys. 

I observed how they assisted one another, sharing ideas and insights as they worked together on different projects. This collective spirit showed a strong sense of teamwork and community, making the atmosphere inviting and dynamic.

After settling down for a conversation with WJHI faculty adviser Fred Cowgill, our discussion turned to skills that students in the program acquire, emphasizing the importance of pushing beyond their comfort zones. 

WJHI is dedicated to skill-based learning, which includes interviewing, trusting other environments, and communicating with others. 

What exactly do they learn? According to Cowgill, they master video editing techniques, which are crucial for creating eye-catching commercials. 

Additionally, they dive into the exciting world of sports review, which happens after school for JHS games and not only sharpens their analytical abilities but also opens doors to promising career opportunities in broadcasting for those inspired to make a career in this thriving field. 

Wednesday, Jan. 22 was the Academy Fair for freshmen. I visited the WJHI Radio and Broadcasting booth and learned what happens in different fields in the program.

The various fields include radio, being a director, and putting things up on the TV. They showed what the atmosphere would look like during a game and how they would communicate. Students can also work the cameras.

Students in the program say it’s a great learning environment and the teachers help them understand everything from learning how to do radio and communicate. When it comes to radio and broadcasting, communication is key. 

Students I’ve talked to said they have a lot of fun, have learned many new skills, and are excited to see what the future holds. 

Junior Jaga Pagva said he’s learned a lot of video editing skills. Pagva’s favorite part is just being a part of the program. He likes being in WJHI because everything is coordinated. Pagva said, “There’s a lot of skills people have to master.” Photo by Izzy Wemes.
by jhshyphen

Review: Mall St. Matthews is still a place to go for fun

by Miranda Flores

Bright lights, dozens of different aromas, and chatter all around. From the early 80s to the late 90s, malls were the place to hang out with friends. From grabbing a bite to eat to shopping for clothes and electronics, the mall was the place to go.

With the rise of online shopping and social media, the need for in-person shopping drastically declined, along with the popularity of malls. This raises the question: Are malls still popular?

Saturday is the busiest day for Mall St. Matthews in St. Matthews, Kentucky. With over 150 different stores, it is no wonder so many people want to visit. 

The smell was the first thing that hit me after walking through the automatic sliding doors leading straight to the food court. My boyfriend, two friends, and I arrived around 11:30 a.m., only 30 minutes after the store opened. I was surprised to see that there were already dozens of people there sitting down and enjoying their food. 

Looking around I was drawn in by the free samples the employees were passing out. I only tried two samples before I knew what I wanted to eat. The large portion of sweet and tangy orange chicken and the vegetable lo mein from Chinese Gourmet Express was delicious. It was hot and fresh and it only took about two minutes for my order to be completed, including the time it took for me to be rang up and checked out. The staff was also very nice and the food was cheap. There were many places to sit in the food court and it was spotless. 

After we finished eating we visited numerous stores. The St. Matthews Mall has a wide variety of stores and all kinds of merchandise. They even have places that can fix your watches, jewelry, and even your phone all while you shop. We went to the smaller stores, which surprised me with the amount of stuff they were able to keep inside. 

Each store we went into had clothes and toys all up and down the walls. I had trouble getting things down because they were just out of reach, so I had to have my boyfriend hand me the clothes that I wanted. This was a bit bothersome, but it is something that I have to deal with in most stores. Some of the stores were so small that they felt very cramped and packed in, especially some of the more popular ones. 

Walking through the mall itself it was wide and open with enough room for everyone to spread out and walk around. Surprisingly the lights weren’t blinding and they had a few large skylights instead. The St. Matthews Mall has a lot of interactive areas for all ages such as a large lifesize chess board with moveable pieces built into the floor and the indoor water fountain where people toss coins into. There are even designated areas for children and tots to run around and play. The mall has both stairs and ramps for easier access for families with strollers and wheelchairs.

One main issue that I had was the bathrooms being hard to find and they were extremely smelly. Large signs were hanging from the wall that said “restroom,” but they were hidden behind other shop signs, and the restroom itself was down a very dim and hardly lit hallway. I was scared that I was in an “employee’s only” area, but then I stumbled across the restrooms. When I opened the restroom door an intense odor of urine hit me and it was so bad that I was turned away from the bathroom altogether. 

Luckily there were multiple other restrooms around that were much cleaner without any bad odors. A good thing about the restrooms is that they have a family room along with other full restrooms that also allow for more accessibility.

Around 3 p.m. more people had shown up and it was getting hectic, so we headed back to the food court for one last time. There, an employee from King Gyros, a Greek restaurant, was passing out samples of their lamb. Once again we fell in love with the sample and decided to get it to go. My boyfriend and I chose to get the lamb platter to share, which came with rice and a creamy tzatziki sauce smothered over the top. The to-go box was heavy from the amount of food they packed into it and we left very satisfied.

The overall experience of visiting Mall St. Matthews left me wanting more. I loved the food, the clothes, and the experience, which is why I have no doubt the store is so popular. I am eager to return and visit the other stores I have yet to see and I highly recommend going out and visiting for yourself.

by jhshyphen

Review: LEGO sets can be a fun hobby for collectors

by William Hudgins

LEGO has hit varieties of different age groups. People play with them or have them as collector’s items. Whatever you do with them, they are an amazing item to make your life fun. 

LEGO began in 1934 in the carpentry workshop of Ole Kirk Kristiansen, a skilled carpenter who made wooden toys. Kristiansen prided himself on high quality craftsmanship. He eventually chose the LEGO name for his company, wanting to focus on child development through quality play.

Ever since then, LEGO has become one of the most popular hobbies in the world. It is truly amazing, because you can build or collect what you want to collect. 

LEGO has many different options to choose from based on your interests. The most popular sets include Icons, Ideas, and Star Wars. Star Wars partnered with LEGO back in October 1999, and ever since these sets have been a hit. 

When you see people’s collections, you’ll see many Star Wars sets. There is a reason for this: they are just great sets to keep sealed or on display. They have over a thousand retired or new sets. Some popular ones include the Millennium Falcon, R2-D2, Luke Skywalker’s Landspeeder, and many more. Star War sets are truly such great sets to have; heck, I wish I had some. 

LEGO Ideas launched in 2014, with the first set being called Shinkai 6500 Submarine. To become a LEGO Ideas set it needs 10,000 votes, and then LEGO will look at it to see if they want to make it. These sets are truly great, and most of the sets relate to real TV shows or movies, like the Winnie the Pooh set or The Office. If you are wanting to get into LEGOs, you definitely need to pick up an Ideas set. I highly recommend the Winnie the Pooh set, as it’s incredible to have on display. 

LEGO Icon released in 2010, with only 142 sets available, where most sets came out in 2024. Ideas and Icon sets are more expensive, but they are really worth it. This brand has to be my favorite, because they have many really cool sets, like the Atari 2600, Optimus Prime, Bumblebee, McLaren MP4, and more. If you were to get a set, this is really where you get one; they are just fantastic sets. 

When a LEGO set retires, it’s possible that that set could go for thousands of dollars. LEGO collection is a great way to make money. The set’s lifespan lasts up to three years before it retires. If it’s in good condition, it’s worth more, and if it is open it’s worth less. The most expensive set ever is the San Diego Comic-Con 2013 Spider-Man.

If you are wanting to get into a hobby, choosing LEGO isn’t a bad way to go. 

by jhshyphen

Liverpool FC: A Journey with the Reds

by Quadri Gbadomosi

My favorite club Liverpool FC, known as ‘the Reds,’ has a rich history that spans over 120 years.

Founded in 1892, the club has become a symbol of excellence in the world of football. With passionate support from fans and a commitment to the game, Liverpool has seen numerous triumphs, including multiple league titles and Champions League victories.

This review explores the key elements that define Liverpool FC’s legacy, including its historical successes, recent performances under management, and the unique culture cultivated by its fans.

Historical Background

Liverpool FC has a storied past marked by the likes of Bill Shanky and Bob Paisley, who paved the way for the club’s success. Shankly transformed Liverpool into a dominant force in English football during the 1960s, while Paisley carried on the club’s legacy, securing multiple championships. Fans remember these iconic moments, which established a winning mentality that resonates to this day.

Recent Performances

Under the leadership of Jürgen Klopp, who took over in 2015, Liverpool FC has experienced a golden era. The club won the premier league in the 2019-2020 season after a 30-year wait, along with the UEFA Champions League title in 2019. Klopp’s tactics focused on intense pressing and pressing play, having revitalized the team, making them a force to be reckoned with in natural competitions.

But recently, the discussion around tactics has shifted with the interest in emerging managerial talent, particularly Arne Slot, who has gained a reputation for his innovative strategies while managing Feyenoord. Though not directly at Liverpool, his approach to developing young talent and playing attractive football lends itself to how clubs like Liverpool can evaluate managerial styles in the future.

Fan Culture

One of the most remarkable aspects of Liverpool FC is its vibrant fan culture. The famous anthem “You’ll Never Walk Alone (YNWA)” echoes through Anfield, fostering a deep sense of community, unity and passion among supporters. We the fans not only celebrate victories, but also stand by the team during tough times, creating an atmosphere that is unique to Liverpool.

Conclusion

Through its rich history, a commitment to excellence, and a strong fanbase, Liverpool FC continues to leave a significant mark on the world of football. As the club moves forward. It embraces a legacy that inspires both current players and future generations. The journey with the Reds is not just about the trophies won, but it is about the lasting impact on and off the pitch. 

Liverpool FC remains a platform that promotes unity and inspiration and will continue to remain such as the club progresses.

by jhshyphen