Album Review: Enhypen Romance-Untold

The Hudsonian Newspaper

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

Romance Untold by ENHYPEN is a gripping examination of love, introspection, and the range of human emotions, all encased in an evocative pop, R&B, and alternative soundscape. The group’s record, which follows the worldwide success of their earlier releases, feels both mature and creative, advancing their craft while preserving the emotional depth and narrative that have come to define their sound. The production of the album, which features dark synths, smooth beats, and dramatic vocal performances, demonstrates ENHYPEN’s flexibility by blending genres seamlessly. A calm,
synth-driven ambiance greets you from the first track, setting the mood for the emotional trip that follows. The members’ vocals can shine through the tight, precise, yet flowing beats with out overpowering the listener. With its layered harmonies and opulent instrumentals, songs like “Lost in the Moment” evoke a calm, reflective mood, while “Parallel Heart” bursts into a more energetic, electro-pop chorus that manages to maintain a sense of sorrow. Lyrically, ENHYPEN’s earlier themes of identity, desire, and longing are both continued and expanded upon in Romance Untold. The word itself alludes to untold tales—emotions and experiences that have not yet been thoroughly examined. Unrequited love, the pursuit of purpose, and the bittersweet moments that characterize adolescence are among the issues that the album addresses. While “Through the Stars” is a hopeful, almost cinematic call for connection despite distance, songs like “Echoes of You” convey the eerie impression of a love lost in time. The lyrics achieve a sophisticated yet approachable balance by being moving
without coming across as unduly theatrical. Each member of ENHYPEN contributes a distinct quality to the group’s vocal performance, which keeps developing. The album’s more atmospheric passages gain depth from Sunghoon’s silky voice and Jungwon’s emotive delivery. The voices of Sunghoon and Heeseung blend in perfectly with both gentle ballads and upbeat songs, while Jay and NI-KI provide
powerful vocals and a wide spectrum of emotions. The group’s harmonies are especially striking, showcasing their development as a cohesive whole. The members have a strong rapport with one
another, and each is given plenty of opportunity to play to their strengths while also blending in with the overall sound. Romance Untold demonstrates ENHYPEN’s artistic development and evolution as a band. It improves and broadens the ideas and sounds that have struck a chord with fans, even though it doesn’t create anything completely original. The album embraces both the melancholy and the thrill of youthful love and personal development, feeling like a logical evolution. Romance Untold is a moving meditation on the intricacies of love and the stories we construct around it, featuring memorable songs, outstanding vocal performances, and evocative production. This is a strong album that will appeal to ENHYPEN’s current fan base and provide strong evidence for their status as one of K-pop’s most vibrant and exciting acts.

Opinion Review: Tetris Deserves More Attention

The Hudsonian Newspaper

Kelly Nguyen || Issue 10 || December 3rd, 2024

Tetris is an iconic puzzle game created by Alexey Pajitnov in 1984, having solidified its place in gaming history through its interesting premise. While it is often overshadowed by more complex or visually stunning games of today, Tetris deserves far more recognition for its profound influence and
enduring appeal. At its core, Tetris is a game about spatial reasoning and quick thinking. Beneath the surface, it’s quite simple: falling shapes (tetramine’s) must be rotated and re-arranged to complete rows. Whether you’re playing casually or working towards a high score, Tetris engages the mind.
It forces players to remember shapes, work on their reaction time, and even logical planning. Funnily enough, Tetris is an example of a game that evolves without losing its essential identity. The game has been re-imagined countless times from the original Game Boy version to mobile games and even VR! Each iteration brings something new to the table, but the essence of the game remains the same. Tetris also offers surprising psycho logical benefits. Studies have shown that playing Tetris can improve cognitive skills like spatial awareness and even reduce stress. Its repetitive, meditative quality offers a brief escape from the complexity of modern life, making it both entertaining and therapeutic. In conclusion, Tetris deserves more love because it’s a game that has stood the test of time by focusing on what truly matters: accessible, engaging gameplay. It’s simple yet deeply satisfying, culturally influential, and endlessly repayable. For these reasons, Tetris will always be more than just a game—it’s a legacy that continues to impact the world of gaming.

Farm Groups urge Trump to prevent deportation of Key Workers

The Hudsonian Newspaper

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

Farm groups across the U.S. are calling on the Trump administration to spare their workers from deportation, warning that sending them home could disrupt the country’s food supply. These workers, many of whom are undocumented, are a vital part of the farming industry, making up a significant portion of the agricultural workforce. If the government follows through with deportations, farm
groups say it could create a serious labor shortage and lead to higher food prices for consumers.
Agriculture has long relied on immigrant workers, especially those from Mexico, to help plant, harvest, and process crops. The National Farmers Union (NFU), which represents thousands of family farmers, has spoken out about the situation. Rob Larew, the president of NFU, says that these workers are crucial to keeping farms running, stating, “Our agricultural system depends on these workers. Without them, we’d see serious disruptions in food production and increased prices for consumers.”
The main concern is a possible end to the Temporary Protected Status (TPS), a program that lets workers from certain countries stay in the U.S. temporarily if their home countries are facing war or natural disasters. Many farm workers currently benefit from TPS, and if the program is discontinued, it could affect thousands of people working in agriculture. The Trump administration has
shown interest in ending TPS for several countries, and farm groups are worried about the consequences. Chuck Conner, president of the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives,
says losing these workers would be disastrous for the agriculture industry. “We risk losing our ability to feed America,” he said. “There’s simply no other group of workers who can replace them.” Farm groups are asking for a solution that would allow workers to stay, at least for the time being. They’re not
looking for permanent amnesty, but rather a temporary fix to prevent a mass exodus of workers that would hit the farming industry hard. Bob Stallman, a farmer and advocate for agriculture, points out that these workers have been trained and have built lives in the U.S. over the years. “It doesn’t make sense to remove them when we’re already struggling to find enough workers,” he says. There’s also concern about the broader economic effects. Some experts worry that losing a large portion
of the farm labor force would make fresh produce more expensive and
harder to find in stores. While the Trump administration has pushed for stricter immigration policies, many in agriculture are calling for more flexibility, especially when it comes to workers who are already part of the system. The debate over immigration and farm labor is likely to continue, as
the Trump administration weighs its options. On one side, some argue for stronger border security and stricter immigration laws. On the other, farm groups say that without the workers already in place, the country could face serious consequences, from labor shortages to rising food costs. The outcome of this issue could have a lasting impact on U.S. agriculture, and many are hoping that the administration will listen to the concerns of farmers before making any final decisions.

Donald Trump’s Cabinet Picks

The Hudsonian Newspaper

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

As President-elect Donald Trump announces his picks for key Cabinet positions, the nominations have quickly sparked debate and concern, particularly given the controversial figures selected to serve in high-profile roles. The incoming administration’s choices are drawing criticism from progressive voices, who see many of Trump’s picks as a continuation of his previous administration’s trend of favoring wealthy elites, media personalities, and individuals with questionable pasts. On Tuesday, Trump revealed several eye-catching selections, including Dr. Mehmet Oz, a celebrity physician and
TV personality, nominated to lead the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Alongside Oz, billionaire financier Howard Lutnick was selected for commerce secretary, and Linda McMahon, the former WWE executive, and longtime Trump ally, was tapped to head the Department of Education. While Trump has long advocated for bringing in outside business and media figures, these appointments have drawn heavy scrutiny. Dr. Oz, known more for his TV shows than his medical credentials, will now oversee one of the nation’s most critical health agencies. Critics argue that Oz’s lack of government experience and controversial stances on health, such as promoting suspicious alternative treatments, make him unqualified to manage Medicare and Medicaid at a time when millions rely on these programs for healthcare. Lutnick, a billionaire whose company Cantor Fitzgerald has a history of financial scandals, is slated to manage the U.S. economy in the role of commerce secretary. His appointment raises serious questions about whether Trump’s administration will continue prioritizing the interests of the wealthiest Americans over working people, especially as Lutnick’s wealth is largely tied to the finance sector, an industry often criticized for exploiting the economic system to its benefit. Trump’s focus on financial elites and corporate interests seems to be setting the stage for a Cabinet more concerned with protecting the wealthy than addressing the needs of the general population. McMahon’s appointment to head the Department of Education is another
source of contention. While McMahon has spent decades in the business world, overseeing the WWE empire, her limited background in education raises alarm for critics. Trump’s push to give states more control over education has already sparked concern that it could lead to the defunding and dismantling of public education. As someone with no real educational experience, McMahon’s selection is seen by many as a sign that Trump may double down on policies that prioritize privatization and undermine public schools, further exacerbating inequality. Another controversial pick that has raised eyebrows is Trump’s nomination of Rep. Matt Gaetz for Attorney General. Gaetz, already under investigation by the FBI for his alleged involvement in sex trafficking, continues to be a polarizing figure. The public release of hacked documents that included serious allegations against Gaetz only added to concerns about his suitability for a role that demands the highest standards of integrity. Despite these revelations, Trump has shown no signs of reconsidering Gaetz’s nomination,
raising questions about his commitment to accountability and justice. Other nominees, such as Fox News host Pete Hegseth for Secretary of Defense, and former presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard for Director of National Intelligence, are similarly attracting scrutiny. Hegseth’s ties to conservative media and his involvement in inflammatory political rhetoric have led many to question whether he is fit to lead the nation in defense, while Gabbard’s controversial views on foreign policy have raised red flags for those concerned about the direction of U.S. intelligence and military operations. Perhaps most concerning is Trump’s nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vocal critic of vaccines, to head the Department of Health and Human Services. Kennedy’s anti-vaccine stance is a serious public health
risk, especially after such a life-altering global pandemic. His selection underscores the broader question of whether the Trump administration will continue to prioritize fringe, right-wing viewpoints over scientific evidence and public health. As these nominees head toward Senate confirmation, many progressive lawmakers and activists are already calling for intense scrutiny of each candidate. With several of these picks facing public scandals or controversies, there are growing concerns that the incoming administration may be more focused on rewarding political allies and business interests than on governing in the best interest of the American people. The pushback is likely to intensify as the Cabinet nominees move through the confirmation process. Senate Democrats, who hold a narrow majority, will need to carefully consider whether they can support these individuals given their
controversial pasts and positions. Some moderates may be forced to weigh the political fallout of supporting figures who are widely seen as unqualified or harmful to public welfare. As Trump prepares to take office for a second term, it’s clear that his approach to Cabinet appointments will prioritize loyalty and conservative credentials over experience, expertise, or ethical considerations. For many Americans, these nominations signal a troubling continuation of the administration’s disregard for qualifications and transparency in favor of rewarding political allies and corporate backers.

Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s Relationship

The Hudsonian Newspaper

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

President-elect Donald Trump has tapped billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk to lead the newly created Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), solidifying a growing alliance between two of the most influential figures in politics and technology. This partnership, marked by public endorsements and mutual admiration, has already begun to reshape political and technological discourse in the U.S. Musk, known for his leadership roles at Tesla, SpaceX, and social media platform X, endorsed Trump during the 2024 campaign after an assassination attempt on the former president in July. Musk’s public backing came as a surprise to some, given his previously critical stance on Trump. Musk even tweeted in 2021 that Trump should “hang up his hat & sail into the sunset.”
However, his endorsement marked a turning point, with Musk becoming one of Trump’s most vocal supporters. “President Trump is the only one who can save democracy,” Musk declared at a rally in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, in October. Musk’s influence went beyond words. Reportedly he invested at least $175 million into Trump’s campaign, aiding Republican efforts in swing states like Pennsylvania. Musk also played a direct role in the campaign, organizing town halls and fielding voter questions. His support has not gone unnoticed by Trump, who praised Musk as a “star” during campaign speeches and celebrated his contributions to technology and innovation. Trump’s admiration culminated in Musk’s appointment to DOGE, a new federal agency aimed at improving government efficiency and reducing waste. “This department will send shock waves through the system,” Musk said in a statement. Musk’s involvement in Trump’s administration raises questions about potential conflicts of interest, given his companies’ extensive ties to the federal government. SpaceX and Tesla have both benefited from billions of dollars in government contracts and subsidies. At the same time, Tesla is under federal investigation for the safety of its self-driving technology. Eric Lipton, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, highlighted this duality, saying, “He is simultaneously being targeted by the federal government and being paid billions of dollars by the federal government.” Despite the scrutiny, Musk has become a central figure in Trump’s inner circle,
even participating in phone calls with foreign leaders like Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
His role signals a shift in the relationship between business leaders and political power, blending financial influence with policymaking. Not everyone believes the alliance will last. Adam Clark Estes, senior technology correspondent at Vox, expressed skepticism about the sustainability of their partnership. “I don’t think those two personalities can stay friends for too long,” Estes said. “Even
if he lasts the next two months, I think he’ll leave a tremendous impression on the Trump administration.”

Photo Credits (below): Justin
Merriman / Bloomberg via
Getty Images file

Did Taylor Swift and the Eras Tour impact the economy?

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

When will Capital Region Ski Resorts Open?

The Hudsonian Newspaper

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.

Cornell Custodian Charged with Second Degree Murder

The Hudsonian Newspaper

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.

U.S. Gives “Green Light” for Ukraine to use U.S. Long Ranged Missiles

The Hudsonian Newspaper

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.

Menendez Brothers might be set free?

The Hudsonian Newspaper

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