Author: The Hudsonian Newspaper

Adem Jones || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has reshaped the music industry and unprecedentedly boosted the economy. While the music and spectacle are remarkable, the numbers speak louder, with an estimated $2.2 billion in North American ticket sales and a projected $5 billion in consumer spending in the U.S.
alone. These figures position the tour as a defining moment in both entertainment and economic impact. By the time the tour concludes in Vancouver in December 2024, it is expected to break Elton John’s record of $939 million in gross earnings, becoming the highest-grossing tour in history. But the financial impact goes far beyond ticket sales. Local economies have thrived in cities hosting the tour. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker credited Swift with breaking Chicago’s hotel revenue record after her three-night stay. California estimated a $320 million GDP boost in Los Angeles from her six sold-out shows. The Federal Reserve even mentioned Swift in its Beige Book, noting her concerts contributed to Philadelphia’s strongest hotel revenue month since the pandemic. These effects rival the economic impact of hosting the Super Bowl, a comparison reinforced by Dan Fleetwood of QuestionPro Re
search: “If Taylor Swift were an economy, she’d be bigger than 50 countries.” Fans, known as Swifties, are spending big. A national study revealed they spend an average of $1,300 per concert, covering tickets, travel, outfits, and merchandise. Local businesses have seen increased spending, from hotels to restaurants to boutiques selling concert attire. In Glendale, Arizona, the opening night of the tour generated more revenue for local businesses than Super Bowl LVII, held in the same stadium. However, some experts question the long-term benefits. Victor Matheson, an economics professor, explained that much of the money goes directly to Swift and her team, not local economies. He argued, “When you spend money on concert tickets and merchandise, that is money that doesn’t
tick in the local economies. It goes home with the artist.” While restaurants and hotels see short-term boosts, this often replaces spending that would have occurred over a longer period. Despite the debate, Swift’s tour has created cultural and economic ripples. From Minneapolis renaming itself “Swiftie-apolis” to New Jersey’s governor declaring a state sandwich in her honor, her influence is unmatched. Internationally, cities like Tokyo, Edinburgh, and Mexico City have experienced similar boosts, with sold-out hotels and increased spending surrounding her performances. Even businesses outside the concert venues have felt the impact. Swift’s mention of “friendship bracelets” in her song “You’re On Your Own, Kid” has sparked a beading craze, with local shops reporting shortages of beads and sequins. Additionally, fans are clamoring for her physical albums, turning vinyl and CDs into collectibles. Job creation has been another no table effect. Each show requires a vast workforce, from stage crews to hospitality staff. The Wall Street Journal reported a 1,000% increase in demand for hourly workers near Swift’s Gillette Stadium shows. Swift’s timing also played a role. Coming after the COVID-19 pandemic, when personal savings hit record highs and the tourism industry struggled, her tour revived spending habits. Fans proved willing to use their pandemic savings on once-in-a-lifetime experiences, proving that there is a broader consumer trend toward valuing shared cultural moments. Ultimately, Swift’s Eras Tour transcends the typical concert experience. It has sparked debates on economic benefits, showcased the power of fandom, and united millions worldwide. As Victor Matheson concluded, “She is generating and providing happiness, and people are willing to pay any amount for that. There is value in that, too.” Whether or not every dollar spent sticks in local economies, the Eras Tour’s legacy is undeniable. Love her or hate her, Taylor Swift isn’t just performing music, she’s making history

Christian Rasmussen || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024

As the temperatures drop and the winter season draws near, winter sport enthusiasts are eager to get back on the mountains for their skiing season. However, with little snowfall, there are some questions as to when the popular Capital Region resorts will begin to open back up. Most ski resorts are anticipating to reopen their slopes in the first or second week of December, as rumors of snow begin to grow. You can find the specifics for each resort listed below! Reopenings: Royal Mountain Ski Area Anticipated December 8th or 9th. Whiteface Mountain – Open West Mountain – December 7th. Jiminy Peak – Anticipated December 7th Hunter Mountain – Open Windham Mountain – Open Belleayre Mountain – Opened: November 22nd. Gore Mountain – Open Willard Mountain – To be announced
Catamount Mountain – To be announced Maple Ski Ridge – To be announced Some of these ski resorts have opened their doors to their gift shops and some have even already opened some slopes for snowboarders and skiers. A lot of these mountains have begun their snowmaking processes, where they create artificial snow to help the skiers and snowboarders get to the fun quicker than awaiting natural snowfall. Skiing and snowboarding are among the top favorites of winter sports, and fans are hyped-up for the re-opening of Capital Region ski resorts.

Saima Syeda || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024

Ahmed Abed, 43, a Cornell custodian, has been charged with second-degree murder. In a criminal complaint submitted to Ithaca City Court, Ithaca police claimed to have slain Alaa Husein Jeena Abedi early on Monday morning in his residence on South Plain Street. The attack is still being looked at by police. Abed reportedly smashed Abedi’s head with a cinderblock while she was sleeping, then stabbed her to death. Abed is listed as a custodian at the Humphreys Service Building in Cornell’s staff directory. Eleven years ago, his employee profile was made. The Ithaca Police Department named Abed and his suspected conduct in a press release issued on Tuesday. City Judge Seth Peacock remanded him to the Tompkins County Jail without posting bail. In its first press release issued Monday, IPD called the event “not a random act” and urged anybody with knowledge about the case, especially those who choose to remain anonymous, to get in touch. Information can be anonymously and privately sent using the Ithaca Police Department Tip Line form or by calling the police tip line at 607-330-0000.

Christian Rasmussen || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024

President Joe Biden, as of this week, has authorized Ukraine to use long range U.S. made missiles to assist in the conflict against Russia. The decision was made when Moscow deployed 50,000 troops in Kursk, a major city that the United States does not want to see Russia hold without bargaining in ‘peace talks. North Korean troops were deployed to Kursk, which sparked concern by the U.S. Government because their involvement may start a dangerous phase in the war. Scares of World War III are about, as Putin threatens Ukraine with nuclear attacks following this surprising involvement by the U.S. government and military. Ukrainian President Zelensky has responded to this U.S. aid by stating “The missiles will speak for themselves.” Russian President Vladimir Putin had stated previously that if threatened by U.S. missiles, they had the ability to resort to nuclear weapons. This would hypothetically cause the involvement of the United States and NATO, which would eventually lead to what many consider to be World War III. Ukraine, as of November 19, 2024, had fired their first round of six missiles to Russian military facilities. These were shot down by Russian counter offensives, and Putin responded by announcing they would update their nuclear doctrine. As previously stated by President Putin, the authorization of these missiles to be used by Ukrainian forces would be considered an act of war. As for the future of this conflict regarding U.S. involvement and the scare of World War III, many details remain unclear. The fear of a nuclear war is still at large, and there are hopes to see a peaceful end to this conflict during the transition of power in January.

Adem Jones || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024

In one of the most infamous cases of the 1990s, Erik and Lyle Menendez were convicted of brutally murdering their parents, Jose and Mary Louise Menendez, in their Beverly Hills home. The brothers, once seen as cold-blooded killers, have spent over three decades in prison. But now, with a new
wave of evidence and public support, they are one step closer to freedom, awaiting a decision that could rewrite the final chapter of their controversial case. What started as a shocking double murder is now a fight for a second chance at life. The brothers have long maintained that they killed their parents in self-defense after years of sexual and physical abuse. The case has been the subject of intense media scrutiny, and their story gained further attention with the release of a popular Netflix documentary
in 2022. In recent years, the Menendez brothers have been pushing for a new trial or a resentencing, claiming that crucial evidence about their abuse was not adequately considered during their original trial. On November 25, 2024, the brothers’ legal team argued before a judge that they should be freed, citing the impact of new evidence, including claims of long-term abuse that they say were ignored during their original trial. Their attorneys argue that, given the context of the abuse, a life sentence is no longer appropriate. As one of their lawyers, Mark Geragos, told reporters, “We have never had a more compelling case for resentencing.” The Menendez brothers’ first trial ended in a mistrial, and their second trial led to convictions for first-degree murder, with no possibility of parole. At the heart of their defense was the argument that they were not guilty of murder in the traditional sense, but were instead victims of a severe and ongoing trauma that led them to act out of fear for their lives. In recent years, several pieces of evidence have surfaced that were not available to their original legal team. Testimony from a psychiatrist, new court documents, and even a renewed focus on their family history paint a picture of deep abuse. According to the brothers’ legal team, this new evidence should be enough to allow for resentencing, as it could drastically alter how the brothers’ actions are understood under the law. The brothers have faced significant public scrutiny, particularly regarding their lavish lifestyles after their parents’ deaths. However, Erik and Lyle have maintained that they did not act out of greed, but out of a desperate need to escape their parents’ control. Lyle Menendez stated in a 2023 interview that the murders were “the only way we could get away from the abuse.” A major
factor in the on going legal battle is the question of whether the brothers will ever be resentenced. Currently, they are serving life sentences without the possibility of parole, but there are a few paths to
freedom they are exploring. One possibility is through California’s legal system, where judges have been open to reexamining sentences in light of new information. Another potential avenue is through executive clemency, in which the governor could decide to commute their sentences. The Menendez brothers’ case has sparked widespread debate, particularly on social media, where supporters have argued that they deserve a second chance. Celebrities like Kim Kardashian and high-profile figures in the legal community have voiced their support for the brothers’ release, suggesting that the original
trial was unfair and that they should be given another chance to show that they are rehabilitated. Despite this, the prosecution remains adamant that the murders were premeditated and that no amount of abuse could justify the killings. Critics argue that the Menendez brothers, despite their traumatic past, should not be absolved of responsibility for their actions. As legal scholar Laurie Levenson put it, “The evidence may show they were abused, but it doesn’t change the fact that they killed their parents.” As the Menendez brothers await a ruling on their fate, their supporters and detractors continue to debate whether justice has been served. The decision could have far-reaching implications, not just for the Menendez family but for the broader legal understanding of self-defense, abuse, and justice. For now, the brothers’ future remains in limbo, as the court weighs their fate. The case continues to raise important questions about how the justice system handles cases of childhood trauma, and whether the Menendez brothers will ever be allowed the chance to start over.

Photo Credits: California
department of Corrections
rehabilitation/ AP via CNN
Newsource

Christian Rasmussen || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024

Fat Crow Gourmet, a women-owned and sister-owned local business in Troy, New York, just won an award for their amazing Maple Chipotle Sauce. After competing in the Spicy Flave Awards last month, Fat Crow Gourmet took home a bronze medal for their well-renowned Maple Chipotle Sauce. This will be their third medal after winning first place in the International Flavor Awards with their Cherry Amaretto Jam, and third place in the Worldwide Mustard Competition for their Horseradish and Pepper Mustard. Michele Bleichert, the co-owner of Fat Crow Gourmet, started out by running a brewery in Binghamton, New York, with her husband, John Bleichert. After leaving Binghamton, Michele wanted to continue to work in the food business. Michele moved closer to Troy a few years back, where she and her sister, Luanne Rasmussen, had started their company. With only promises of hard work, loads of stress, and not a lot of money, Fat Crow Gourmet was born. Fat Crow Gourmet opened up in the early weeks of December 2021, with a ribbon cutting accompanied by the Troy Mayor, the Rensselaer County Executive, and County Legislator. Fat Crow Gourmet produces mustards, jams, sauces, BBQ rubs, and seasonal products such as house decor. They are located on 362 Congress Street. Fat Crow Gourmet does in store pickup and deliveries, having customers from all over the world getting their jams and sauces shipped overseas. Fat Crow Gourmet is a store that usually receives more foot traffic than anything, with its attractive decor and window-shopping appeal. Come visit Fat Crow Gourmet in Troy, New York!

Christian Rasmussen || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024

Troopers from Buffalo, New York, have arrested Devin Williams, a 42-year-old on Wednesday, November 20th, on charges of third-degree grand larceny. He is currently being held in Schenectady County Jail and is accused of stealing $25,000 from his employer in Schenectady, New York. After investigation, troopers determined that he had used the company credit card to make unauthorized purchases for his enrichment. The unauthorized purchases were allegedly made between October and December of 2022, 2 years before the arrest was made. The complaint was made on March 22, 2023, where the company accused Williams of utilizing the company’s credit card for his own personal purchases. He was located and arrested in his home in Buffalo, where he was transported to SP Princetown for processing and then later transported to the Schenectady County Correctional Facility to wait for arraignment. Troopers did not identify the business in question. Third-degree grand larceny is a felony that can sentence you to between 2 and a third years and years in prison. It is considered to be a class “D” felony, on the lower side of the scale. Grand larceny is the act of stealing money from your business for your own personal gain through unauthorized purchases. Over 25,000 dollars were stolen by Devin Williams, and the items bought with the illegal money are not currently disclosed. Devin Williams is currently awaiting a court decision on his sentencing, but it is to be presumed that he will be sentenced to a few years in prison.

Adem Jones || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024

As The 29th United Nations Climate Change Conference, COP29, enters its second week in Baku, Azerbaijan, attention intensifies on corporate accountability in the climate crisis. Todd Paglia, executive director of stand. Earth, is a leading voice at the conference, pushing for transparency and responsibility from major corporations. His target: Cargill, a global food giant accused of contributing to deforestation and greenwashing its climate efforts. “We’ve uncovered troubling practices tied to Cargill’s operations,” Paglia says, pointing to the company’s efforts to obscure the true extent of its environmental impact. Cargill’s involvement in a controversial project to build a railroad through
the Amazon rainforest, putting Indigenous land at risk, adds to Paglia’s concerns. “This is a company that says one thing and does another,” he adds. Beyond corporate accountability, experts at COP29 are also calling for broader action. Amy Wilentz, a professor at the University of California, Irvine, brought up the difficulty of addressing climate change in regions where environmental issues are often viewed through religious or cultural lenses. “If you don’t call it climate change, if you just call it ‘the problem with the harvest,’ people are more likely to listen,” Wilentz explains. Wilentz also pointed out the political and economic barriers standing in the way of climate progress. “The whole world economy runs on fossil fuels,” she says, stressing that political leaders often avoid confronting climate change to protect their ties to industries like oil and gas. To push for more urgent action, Wilentz suggests direct action, such as the climate protests in England. “Maybe we should respond with actual roadblocks,” she proposes, advocating for civil disobedience to challenge the status Quo. Meanwhile, one of the standout initiatives of COP29 is the Global Cooling Pledge, which was launched last year at COP28 and reaffirmed by over 30 countries and organizations at this year’s conference. The pledge aims to reduce cooling-related emissions and ensure that vulnerable populations have access to life-saving cooling solutions as global temperatures continue to rise. Dr. Amna Bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, highlighted the pledge’s potential to curb emissions by 78 billion tons by 2050. “Cooling is not a luxury but a necessity,” she stressed, with extreme heat becoming an increasing global challenge. Countries like Brazil, Cambodia, and Ghana are already integrating cooling into their national climate plans, and cities are taking steps to improve urban cooling and reduce energy consumption. Despite the momentum surrounding the pledge, critics point to COP29’s location in Baku, citing Azerbaijan’s reliance on oil and gas and its questionable human rights record as problematic. However, Todd Paglia remains hopeful that the conference can still drive meaningful change. “The fight against climate change is far from over,” Paglia says, urging the global community to continue pushing for real, lasting solutions. COP29 may be nearing its end, but the crucial conversations sparked here will help shape the future of climate action.

Photo Credits: ICLEI