LAHS Talon Newsletter Issue XI

January 11, 2021
Volume XXXVII | Issue XI

Happy New Year and welcome back to The Talon’s newsletter! It’s been quite a while since the last one, but so much has happened over this duration of time, namely the rioting on Capitol Hill. The Talon has curated a list of resources for you to stay updated, including a news story on the riots and an opinion on the idolization of politicians. On a brighter note, this week’s newsletter contains an uplifting letter to athletic trailblazer Sarah Fuller and a scintillating commentary on the existence — or lack thereof — of the Galactic Federation. We have no doubt that 2021 is going to be an interesting year, and we’re glad to have you along for the ride.

Win McNamee, Via Getty Images

A mob of President Donald Trump’s supporters stormed the Capitol building on Wednesday, January 6, halting Congress’s counting of electoral votes around 1 p.m. EST. The rioters, many wearing camouflage gear and carrying Confederate flags, shattered windows and broke into lawmakers’ offices. Vice President Mike Pence and other lawmakers were evacuated as the Capitol building was placed on lockdown.

The Democratic and Republican National Convention buildings were also evacuated after a pipe bomb was found at the RNC. One woman who appeared to be a part of the mob was shot in the neck and has been pronounced dead at an area hospital.

Some representatives took to Twitter to condemn the violence. Trump tweeted to his supporters, asking them to “remain peaceful.” Around 2 p.m. EST, President-elect Joe Biden addressed the rioting in DC from Wilmington, Delaware.

“The scenes of chaos at the Capitol do not reflect a true America,” Biden said. He called upon Trump to “demand an end to this siege.”

Trump responded with a video broadcast from the Rose Garden, telling the rioters they “have to go home now” and “we have to have peace.” However, he maintained his false argument that the election was a fraud.

The Capitol Police, Federal Bureau of Investigation and National Guard are present at the scene and are attempting to clear the premises. Mayor of Washington DC Muriel Bowser ordered a 6 p.m. curfew, which remained in effect until 6 a.m. the next morning.

Read the full article here. If you have opinions about the riots or other current events, consider guest writing for The Talon by contacting us over social media (click the icons at the top or bottom of this newsletter) or filling out this form.

Elli Lahdesmaki

Thrifting has become one of the most recommended and trendiest forms of shopping, as it helps restore our environment and our bank accounts. However, knowing thrift stores are oftentimes the only affordable option for lower-income families, staff writer Emilie Enser often feels guilty picking out items for herself. Click here to read her take on the complex ethics of thrift shopping.

Courtesy Kate O'Neal and Dafna Adler

Senior Kate O’Neal spent her sophomore year surrounded by croissants, cobblestone streets and gorgeous architecture while studying abroad in Toulouse, France. Twenty years earlier, LAHS counselor Dafna Adler also spent part of her school years immersing herself in Parisian culture and history. Click here to read about their transformative experiences and the accessibility of studying abroad.

“[I] know that I can find my way even on days when it’s hardest” ― Nightlight, Illenium

Here's to a good start to the new year: This playlist of light EDM songs is a perfect way to add some color to 2021.

While many influencers’ workout programs can be a great source of inspiration and structure, it can be difficult to tell how effective they really are and decide whose to follow. Click here to read about staff writer Emilie Enser’s experiences with four different workout plans and her thoughts on the surrounding fitness culture.

On Saturday, December 12, the nation watched in wonder as Vanderbilt University’s Sarah Fuller became the first woman to score in a Power Five football game. As she made history, she also created a new future for women and girls everywhere. Click here to read senior writer Allie Bricca’s heartfelt letter to the groundbreaking kicker.

Courtesy Lauren Haragan

When senior Lauren Haragan clocked in for her shift at the grocery store, she didn’t expect to learn that her coworker had tested positive for COVID-19, let alone discover that she had contracted the virus as well. After overcoming viral symptoms and quarantine loneliness, Lauren has a new appreciation for those who abide by COVID-19 safety guidelines and a deep frustration with those who don't. Click here to read about Lauren’s takeaways after surviving the virus.

Like oil and vinegar, politics and gaming typically seem mutually exclusive. However, representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has successfully combined the two with her Twitch streams, gaining adoration from teens nationwide. Like with all politicians, crossing the line between supporting her and idolizing her is where things get problematic. Click here to read staff writer Naomi Ichiriu’s take on the underlying issues with idolizing politicians.

First-contact fiction is no new phenomenon, but claims of a real life alien alliance — the Galactic Federation — certainly are. This story, however, is littered with plot holes, and here's why. Click here to learn more about why the Galactic Federation definitely does not exist.

The transition to thrifting: For better or worse?

Two pros share pros of studying abroad

Seeing In Color

Sports

Popular fitness influencers reviewed: Fab or flop?

Dear Sarah Fuller,

Features

Lauren Haragan: Surviving COVID-19 from behind the mask

Opinions

AOC: Not your streamer best friend