Fall 2016: November 11th Issue 6
Letter from the Editor in Chief
Aloha Mai Kākou,
New-York Tribune editor Horace Greeley once said that “journalism will kill you, but it will keep you alive while you’re at it.” For sure, the media has long been treated as a double-edged sword. In the hands of the truth-tellers, it can be a symbol for justice. For those in the press with ulterior motives and selfish or malicious agendas, however, it can be wielded as a dangerous bludgeon against the innocent.
Considering Horace Greeley is also remembered for waging an unsuccessful bid for president in 1872, it’s only fitting that his name be mentioned in this current election cycle, as the media continues to play an integral role in the political process. Here at Ke Kalahea, we take that responsibility very seriously.
In determining what issues or ideas are swaying the conversation at UH Hilo, several of our writers sought out various student opinions on their hopes for the future, after all the ballots have been cast.
For those who are still confused as to what’s going on with the presidential election, I offer a crash course of sorts with my “What to Expect” article. Also, for those of you who can’t stand politics and all the pointless bickering it’s caused, our Assistant Editor-in-Chief and I have got you covered. Trust me, we both can’t wait for this year to be over with already.
Nevertheless, politics still matters, especially at the local level. Our writer Valentina had the unique opportunity to attend a forum at UH Hilo where candidates for county and state office shared their views on challenges affecting the Big Island. Valentina also got the chance to interview a particular candidate, Eileen O’Hara, who currently teaches at UH Hilo.
Addressing other campus affairs, we begin to uncover the story behind why faculty members at UH Hilo are charged more for Student Life Center access than students.
News Editor Aspen Mauch, meanwhile, brings us the second part of her series on budget cuts at UH Hilo, also focusing on SLC.
For our next issue, which debuts the week of Thanksgiving, Ke Kalahea will be covering topics related to holiday plans – including travel ideas, parties, and more. If you’d like to contribute, feel free to let us know! (Please contact bosp@hawaii.edu)
With only two more issues left for the semester, Ke Kalahea looks forward to bringing you – our readers – the same kinds of stories you expect from your student-run news publication. Dare I say, of course, we also strive to exceed your expectations!
Mahalo Nui,
Brian Wild Editor-in-Chief