Category: News

Adem Jones || Issue 13 || February 19, 2025

Valentine’s Day remains a major economic driver, with businesses across multiple industries seeing significant profits during the holiday. In the U.S., consumers are projected to spend over $25 billion on Valentine ’s-related purchases this year, according to the National Retail Federation. This spending includes gifts, dining, travel, and experiences, making it one of the most lucrative holidays for retailers and service providers. Jewelry stores, florists, and confectionery companies see some of the biggest spikes in sales. Jewelry alone is expected to bring in nearly $6 billion, while spending on flowers is projected to reach $2.5 billion. Chocolates and candy remain a staple of the holiday, generating over $3 billion in sales. Restaurants and entertainment venues also benefit from the holiday, with many couples choosing to celebrate with a night out. Data from
the National Restaurant Association shows that Valentine’s Day is one of the busiest dining days of the year, with a large portion of consumers opting for fixed menus and themed dining experiences. Additionally, travel spending has increased as more couples plan romantic get aways, boosting hotel and airline revenue.

Retailers and online marketplaces capitalize on the demand by offering Valentine’s-themed promotions. E-commerce platforms see a surge in sales as consumers purchase gifts ranging from traditional items to personalized experiences. Subscription services, including meal kits, streaming platforms, and flower delivery services, also see an uptick in customers around the holiday. Marketing plays a key role in driving Valentine’s Day sales. Companies
use targeted advertising, limited-time deals, and influencer partnerships to encourage spending. Social media campaigns promoting “Galentine’s Day” and self-love gifts have expanded the market beyond traditional couples, appealing to single consumers and friend groups as well. Despite the high spending, consumer habits continue to evolve. Surveys indicate that
younger generations are prioritizing experiences over material gifts, leading to increased spending on concerts, trips, and spa services. Meanwhile, budget-conscious consumers are taking advantage of discounts and planning celebrations at home to reduce costs. Valentine’s Day continues to be a profitable occasion for businesses across various sectors. With consumer spending trends shifting, companies are adapting their strategies to meet changing demands while maximizing revenue during the holiday.

Jacob Stark || Issue 13 || February 19, 2025

In Sri Lanka, a single monkey is responsible for the entire nation’s loss of power. The monkey broke into a sub-station on the nation’s electrical grid, where it neutralized the island’s power.
According to Energy Minister Kumara Jayakody, “A monkey has come in contact with our grid transformer, causing an imbalance in the system,”. The blackout occurred on Sunday, February 9, 11:00 am local time, when the monkey intruded upon the power station. 22 million residents were left without power, forced to rely on generator power and thermal power stations rationed electricity. The blackout was said to have lasted 7 hours before power was fully restored. While it is not explicitly stated whether or not the monkey survived, it’s reasonable he was terminated by the transformer. Sri Lanka’s energy security is known to be in a state of weakness, with experts consistently warning that its power grid is outdated and prone to disruptions.

“The national power grid is in such a weakened state that frequent island wide power outages may be expected if there is a disturbance even in one of our lines,” stated an unnamed senior
engineer. This isn’t the first time Sri Lanka has experienced nationwide blackouts either. In the summer of 2022, Sri Lanka residents had to endure months of rolling blackouts when the country was plunged into an economic crisis. Fuel stations ran out of petrol and diesel, forcing thermal power stations to ration electricity to 13 hours each day. If a single monkey truly caused an entire nation to lose power, Sri Lanka might be in more trouble with a monkey population of around 2-3 million. Sri Lanka is already facing issues with these monkeys. With people encroaching more and more onto forested areas, monkeys are raiding nearby villages in search of food resulting in the destruction of crops. Perhaps the only way for Sri Lanka to resolve these issues is with a truce with the monkeys, or they may have bigger issues on their hands.

Adem Jones || Issue 12 || February 4, 2025

Federal agencies ran a large-scale nuclear incident training exercise last week across Schenectady, Albany, and Saratoga counties. The drill, which started January 26 and ran through January 31, involved the FBI, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and other agencies working alongside local law enforcement. According to officials and a statement from the FBI directly, this was just a routine exercise, not a response to any actual threat. The goal was to sharpen emergency response tactics in case of a real nuclear event, whether in the U.S. or abroad. The training included deploying the National Technical Nuclear Forensics Ground Collection Task Force, a team responsible for collecting and analyzing nuclear debris samples in nuclear crises. Officials told those in the area to expect to see more military personnel, aircraft, and even people in protective gear, though they stressed that there’s no reason for alarm, even if it might have looked intense. “The public does not need to be alarmed by training-related activity,” the FBI said in a statement. The exercise was focused on key locations like Albany Airport, Stratton Air National Guard Base, and parts of northern Saratoga County. Local law enforcement, including New York State Police and sheriff’s offices from Albany, Saratoga, and Schenectady counties, were also involved. The training wasn’t open to the public or media due to its sensitive nature, but officials said that it’s a necessary part of national security preparedness. These response drills happen every two years, with previous exercises held in different regions of the country. Planned for this particular event started last spring well before recent global tensions surrounding nuclear threats. Officials insist the timing is purely coincidental. While it’s not every day you see a full-scale nuclear indecent drill happening nearby, officials hope the public understands the importance of staying prepared. If nothing else, it’s a reminder that agencies at all levels are training for worst-case scenarios, so the rest of us don’t have to.

Adem Jones || Issue 12 || February 4, 2025

Development deal expires as Albany secures $400M

A proposal to build a soccer stadium, housing, and retail space at Liberty Park in Albany faces competition after the developers’ exclusive agreement expired. This comes as Albany is in line to receive $400 million in state funding for downtown revitalization. In May of 2024, Ed and Lisa Mitzen of Business for Good and developer Jeff Buell introduced a plan to build an 8,000-seat stadium, which would be part of a larger development with housing and shops. The goal was to transform the underused Liberty Park area into a vibrant neighborhood. However, after the agreement expired in November, Capitalize Albany is now opening the project up to new proposals.
Capitalize Albany President Ashley Mohl said the city is excited to work with the state to maximize the potential of the site. “We’re looking forward to seeing what new ideas come forward,” Mohl said.

Mayor Kathy Sheehan has expressed support for the project, saying it could
boost Albany’s economy while preserving its historic character.
Assemblywoman Patricia Fahy also sees the stadium as part of a larger plan to reconnect Albany to its waterfront and revitalize the downtown area. With the property now open to new
proposals, the future of the Liberty Park development remains uncertain. However, if the soccer stadium project
moves forward, it could bring positive change to Albany’s downtown.

Adem Jones || Issue 12 || February 4th, 2025

American Airlines Jet and U.S. Army Helicopter Crash Over Potomac, 67 Dead

Saima Syeda || Issue 12 || February 4, 2025

Laura Mueller is the first female race engineer in Formula 1 and one of the reforms Haas has made to their race operations team. At the US-based squad, German Mueller will collaborate with newcomer
Esteban Ocon as one of two new race engineers. Carine Cridelich, the new head of strategy for Haas, will also be a woman. She was hired from Red Bull’s Racing Bulls squad and will begin work on March 1. As the individual who works most closely with drivers on the setup, operation, and performance of their cars, race engineers play a crucial role. On television broadcasts, their voices can be heard conversing with drivers. Ronan O’Hare, another inside hire and former performance engineer, will be Mueller’s opposite number on the vehicle of Ocon’s teammate, Oliver Bearman, a British rookie. Diversity in Formula One is growing, according to team principal Ayao Komatsu, but he also stated: “It’s not like I picked Laura because she’s female. We simply don’t give a damn; gender and nationality are irrelevant. Work, teamwork, and ability to maximize performance are what count, and Ronan and Laura, in my opinion, are the ideal candidates.” After identifying the race operations team’s shortcomings early last year, Komatsu, who was appointed team principal prior to the 2024 season, stated that he had sought to replace them. Among Haas’s adjustments are the hiring of a new chief
racing engineer and sporting director, two roles that the low-budget team lacked last season. Francesco
Nenci, the new chief race engineer, has F1 experience with Sauber and Toyota and most recently worked with Audi’s Dakar Rally program. The sporting director will be Mark Lowe, who was previously the manager of Haas’ operations team. “I felt the trackside team was one of the weakest areas last year, and the more the car became competitive that exposed it more,” Komatsu stated. “We had the fifth-fastest car the end of the year. However, we should have placed sixth [in the constructors’ championship] based on our execution, but we didn’t. “We left too many points from the trackside operation on the table, which contributed to the problem. I sorely needed a boost. Frenchwoman Cridelich follows other female strategy leaders, such as Red Bull’s main strategy engineer, Hannah
Schmitz. Former Sauber and Aston Martin employees Ruth Buscombe and Bernie Collins have now pursued careers in radio. Haas has a distinct organizational structure because of their collaboration with Ferrari, which reduces their internal activities as much as feasible. Haas designs solely the chassis and aerodynamic surfaces for their car, employs Ferrari’s wind tunnel, and has a design staff in Maranello, Italy, where they purchase almost all of the parts allowed by Ferrari’s regulations. The race team operates out of a small factory in Banbury, Oxfordshire, although their headquarters are in Kannapolis, North Carolina. According to Komatsu, Haas will have enough money this year for the
first time to meet F1’s budget cap. In order to maintain consistency with aerodynamic studies, they would also be sticking with last year’s design rather than utilizing Ferrari’s most recent modified front suspension. Komatsu stated that his goals were “set on consistency” after Haas finished seventh in the previous season, ahead of Racing Bulls, Williams, and Sauber. “In history with Haas across the
years, I don’t think we have been competitive across the seasons in a similar manner,” he stated. He went on to say that his goal was to further enhance a team that, in his opinion, was “punching above its weight” given its restricted resources. “Who only has 300 people or operates out of this kind of building?” Komatsu uttered such words. “We couldn’t possibly be defeating Williams if they were playing to their full potential. I want to reach a point where we can defeat those individuals based just on merit without any mistakes being made.

Adem Jones || Issue 12 || February 4, 2025

The application period for Hudson Valley Community College’s presidential search closed on January 6, 2025, marking progress in the process led by RH Perry & Associates following the dismissal of former president Roger Ramsammy. The presidential search follows Ramsammy’s termination after allegations of misconduct. Ram Sammy, who denies the claims, had a long career in higher education before his dismissal in 2024. Senior consultants Gena Glickman and Kevin Cavanagh are in charge of the recruitment. The ideal candidate must hold a doctorate or terminal degree, have teaching experience, and demonstrate leadership in student success initiatives, workforce development, and community engagement. RH Perry also draws attention to the need for a president who understands the unique challenges of community colleges, can maintain strong relationships with SUNY leadership, and will maintain a strong campus presence. More than 70 candidates have applied, including Rensselaer County Executive Steve McLaughlin, who is also seeking a congressional nomination. McLaughlin’s application is unconventional since he lacks a doctorate or teaching experience. However, he points out his MBA in finance, experience in government, and involvement
in workforce development. His supporters argue that his leadership skills and union negotiation
experience could benefit HVCC, especially if the college moves toward a more job-oriented focus.
HVCC is one of the largest community colleges in the SUNY system and serves over 10,000 students through degree programs, workforce training, and online education. The search committee, composed
of trustees, faculty, and community members, will soon receive the candidate list and select finalists.
The SUNY chancellor will interview the top three candidates before the SUNY Board of Trustees
makes a final decision. The selection process typically takes 10 months to a year, and HVCC, SUNY officials, and RH Perry & Associates are all working hard to find a leader who will guide the school
toward continued success in both academics and workforce development.

Middle: Steve Mclaughlin Photo credits: Lori van Buren/times union

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.