One seat up for grabs. PAGE 5
Politics galore. PAGES 9-10
Upcoming concerts. PAGE 8
Meet Ron Mirikitani. PAGE 11
David Brooks performs as Jason acting out a scene with a puppet during the production of “Hand to God” in the
20. See story on p. 6
JACOB POLITTE MANAGING EDITOR
The trickle-down effect of the Trump Administration’s longterm agenda for education may very well affect programs, courses and potential employment that STLCC will offer in the future.
Recently, a resolution was proposed in the Republican controlled Missouri State House of Representatives that calls for no state funding for the 2025-2026 school year to be awarded to institutions that are “focused solely on diversity, equity and inclusion, or similar initiatives.” This language, which can be found in House Bill 2 of the Journal of the House from Feb. 19, echoes the agenda of the current Presidential administration.
With that in mind, Chancellor Jeff Pittman
first addressed the matter in a Feb. 14 update. At that time, he wrote “There has been much talk about diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts at colleges, universities and many companies and agencies. Recently, new laws have been proposed in Missouri, and some federal orders have been issued (though they were taken back for now) that focus on DEI initiatives.”
He continued, “These laws could mean that institutions not following the rules might lose funding. Because of this, we need to examine and respond to any local, state, or federal rules that require changes in our operations. As a precaution, we have formed a College Response Team to review these rules.”
Two weeks later, that seven person team is in place. The team is comprised of Chancellor Pittman, Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs Regina Blackshear, South County Dean and
Director Rob Lee, General Counsel Amy Clendennen, controller Patrick Miller, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications Jennifer Arvin and Director of Labor and Employee Relations Shirley Simmons.
Pittman says that they are prepared to take action to assess and comply with the state’s potential new agenda. On Monday, he issued this updated statement to The Montage:
“The new administration is rapidly making changes that impact higher education in several areas,” Pittman said. “A Legislative College Response Team, co-chaired by Regina Blackshear, associate vice chancellor of student affairs, and Rob Lee, dean and director of STLCC South County, has been formed and is tasked with assessing these changes and ensuring we comply with state and federal regulations. Community colleges nationwide provide educational opportunities for all that
a
on
lead to life-changing transformation and economically vibrant communities.” He continued, “Our mission remains unchanged. We will celebrate what makes us unique, ensure fair access to opportunities, and value and respect differences. As we navigate these changes, we will stay true to STLCC’s values.”
Despite this, rumors have been circulating that some courses may be cut if this bill is formally passed through the Missouri Senate chamber, though these rumors remain unsubstantiated. Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs Andrew Langrehr was contacted late last week regarding these changes, but was unable to speak with The Montage before press time due to time constraints. The college has not commented on the matter. The Montage will continue to monitor the course catalog and report any changes.
The Music Program at Meramec offers courses and ensembles for all students. Classes are available for general education credit and the Associate in Arts degree with a concentration in Music to prepare for transfer into a Bachelor of Music program.
COURSES
MUS 101,102,201,202 Music Theory I,II,III,IV
MUS 103 Music Fundamentals
MUS 113 History of Jazz Music
MUS 114 Music Appreciation
MUS 115 Class Voice I
MUS 121,122,221,222 Class Piano I,II,III,IV
MUS 128 History of Rock and Roll
MUS 130 Beginning Guitar
MUS 138,139,216 Jazz Combos I,II,III
MUS 141,142,241,242 Applied Music (Lessons) I,II,III,IV
MUS 150 Fundamentals of Music Technology
MUS 152 Audio Engineering
MUS 154 Music Recording
MUS 211,212 Music History I,II
Interested in performing in an ensemble?
All Meramec students may participate. No audition is required!
ENSEMBLES – CORE42CREDIT!
Music 131 – Concert Choir*
Music 132 – Orchestra
Music 134 – Symphonic Band
Music 138 – Jazz Combos
All ensembles hold a seat/part assignment hearing during the first rehearsal. *Members of the Concert Choir may audition for the Chamber Singers/Jazz Choir
For more information, contact Music at Meramec Dr. Jerry Myers, Program Coordinator, gmyers34@stlcc.edu, (314) 984-7638
Meetings every Tuesday at 2 PM via Zoom or in Student Center, Room 220A
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To apply, contact Faculty Adviser Shannon Philpott-Sanders at ssanders147@stlcc.edu.
To place an advertisement, contact the advertising manager for rates, sample issues, etc., at 314984-7857 or email ssanders147@ stlcc.edu.
Editorial views expressed or content contained in this publication are not necessarily the views of St. Louis Community College, the Board of Trustees or the administration.
The Montage is a student publication produced four times per semester at St. Louis Community College - Meramec, 11333 Big Bend Blvd., Kirkwood, Mo., 63122.
Editorial policy: All letters should be no longer than 500 words and must include identification as a student or faculty member, phone number and address for verification purposes. Phone numbers and addresses will not be published. All letters are subject to editing for content and length. All letters submitted will be published in print and online.
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helping students fill their needs including food, campus resources and much more. This project was a huge collective effort with students making anywhere from 1 to even 20 mugs. Fielding Poe, a studio technician on campus, spoke for the studio when he said “We love to make cups, and we love to support those in need.”
In addition, an overview of documents and meeting minutes from February’s Board of Trustees meeting shows that the college has appeared to have temporarily suspended Board Policy H.07, pending legal review. This policy, which the college originally adopted in 2020 and later revised in 2023, called for the college to develop a program related to diversity in procurement of supplies, services, and contracting. The program was developed to “encourage and increase participation of Minority-Owned Businesses (MB) and Women-Owned Businesses (WBE) in college contracting and procurement.”
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to The Montage in the coming weeks and months for updates. To view a PDF of House Bill 2, please scan the QR code below.
This screenshot details information about Board Policy H.07, one of two policies that were temporarily suspended by the STLCC Board of Trustees pending a legal review during their Feb. 19 meeting. While it is not confirmed that the policy was suspended as a result of the potential changes that may be enforced by the Missouri Department of Education during the 2025-2026 school year, it’s worth noting that the policy fis the bill of a “D.E.I.” initiative.
Getting credit requirements is a major focus in college, with one of the subjects that tends to loom over the rest being mathematics. The math pathway is vast and somewhat overwhelming, seemingly without a solid starting point for new students, but depending on the major of the student, they might find certain ones more useful.
“You only need to go to get pre-calculus or the 160 if you are going into STEM so I highly recommend that,” Professor Aletta Speegle said. “If students have majors in these categories [Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Criminal Justice] that they take either the 180 statistics or [Liberal Arts, Fine Arts, Humanities] the 161 quantitative reasoning.”
These classes also have support versions. The classes are five credit hours, however only three of the hours count towards the degree. The extra time is in place to help students get through the class while understanding the subject. These subjects are still not for everyone however, so it’s important to understand some struggles before going in.
“I teach those foundational forces, I’ve seen a lot of folks come in who genuinely have no idea what they walked into,” Professor Nancy Molik said. “The students that have had IEPs or have disabilities, talk to the Access Office, and get that stuff squared away ASAP, because I have a disability, and it’s really important to make sure that as early as possible in the semester that they can get, like the extended time and all those things that you need in order to not get stuck by the end of the first month.”
While those struggles are there, preparedness goes a long way. If students are sufficiently prepared, the math pathways have a lot to offer when looking at post-college career opportunities. Such as nursing, business, and engineering.
“You can go into science, technology, engineering. Most of the students that we have here at Meramec, if they take calculus, they’re usually going into engineering. We have a few go into computer science,” Speegle said. “But also if through nursing, it depends on some nursing programs, you just need the Intermediate Algebra. Usually for business, you also need the more robust algebra part of the STEM pathway.”
Hopefully Meramec’s mathematics pathway is a course of study students feel comfortable with. There are a lot of on campus resources that can help anyone that feels as though they’re falling behind.
“Definitely use the tutoring center. It’s such a great resource,” second year student Mae Ryan said, “Don’t put it off until the next test. You’ll be in there and in the test and forget how to do something. I know it happens to me. It’s just better to know more things.”
Women’s History Month Movie: “Hidden Figures” Mar. 27 @ 2:00 PM Lecture Hall Room 102
To help celebrate Women’s History Month, Meramec’s Campus Life department will be streaming the 2016 film “Hidden Figures” on Thursday, Mar. 27.
The film, starring acclaimed actresses Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monáe (along with many others) focuses on the real-life story of three African-American women who worked for NASA during the “Space Race” and the challenges they faced.
It will be streamed from Lecture Hall Room 102, which can accommodate a larger crowd if needed.
As of press time, no other Women’s History Month events have been formally announced for the Meramec campus, although the Forest Park and Florrisant Valley campuses have several announced events planned.
JACOB POLITTE MANAGING EDITOR
ELMEDIN KARAMOVIC STAFF WRITER
For the second time in two years, the time has come for the STLCC Board of Trustees (BOT) to be shaken up once more.
In next month’s election set to take place on April 8, one seat on the BOT is up for grabs, and will be taken by either David Addison or Holly Talir.
The winner of the election will represent the sole seat (out of seven seats) allocated to Subdistrict 3, which the college considers to encompass various neighborhoods, including the southern and southwest portions of St. Louis City.
It also includes the areas in which the school districts of Maplewood, Mehlville, Richmond Heights, Kirkwood, Hancock Place, Affton, Bayless, Brentwood and Webster Groves.are all located.
The seat, which has been held by Anne Adams Marshall since April of 2019, will go to a newcomer to the board; AdamsMarshall told The Montage on Monday that she is not seeking another six-year term.
This screenshot from the streaming of the Feb. 19 meeting shows the Board of Trustees (BOT) discussing funding during the public comments portion of the session. Each meeting is streamed live on the BOT’s YouTube channel. The BOT typically meets in person once a month for its public sessions, but sometimes other kinds of sessions take place, especially during the summer months. The Chancellor is also present in some form during each meeting, and gives a monthly report to the Board.
“[It was] my choice,” she said. “I’ve loved my time on the Board. STLCC is a fantastic institution.” She added, “It was an honor to serve the students.”
David Addison graduated from the University of Newcastle upon Tyne in the United Kingdom before getting his MBA degree at Washington University in St. Louis. Addison is currently the Managing Director and Head of Life and Annuities. Addison was previously the Senior Vice President and Head of Development at Global Financial Solutions. Before running for the Subdistrict 3 seat, Addison was on the Webster Groves School District’s Board of Education where he was elected and re-elected numerous times to serve in various roles, including director, board secretary, board vice president, and board president.
Two more seats are set to be up for grabs next April, with the current terms of Board Chair Kevin Martin and longtime STLCC employee and board
While largely unseen by the student body and faculty and staff, the BOT plays a vital role in determining the budget and resources that each campus is allocated. In addition to other responsibilities that include approving business contracts with vendors and construction compaines, they also play a vital role by evaluating the Chancellor’s performance annually.
member Mary Luebke set to expire then. The terms of longtime board member Craig Larson and the only state-appointed member Rodney Gee both expire in 2028; no terms are set to expire in 2027.
To learn more about Addison and Talir, read more below.
Holly Talir graduated from Mizzou for Art History and from Washington University in St. Louis for Non-Profit/Public/Organizational Management. Before running for the Subdistrict 3 seat, Talir was a grant coordinator for Washington University before becoming a substitute at the Kirkwood School District, then becoming a Parent Educator there. Talir has also volunteered for multiple organizations such as God’s Green Acre Association, where she served as a board member. She has also volunteered for the Boy Scouts of America, Warriors Against Melanoma, and the Missouri Botanical Garden.
GRETA MCGLAWN STAFF
The Meramec Theater performance of “Hand to God” on Feb. 21, 22 and 23, was a result of weeks of rehearsal, snow days and setbacks that led to the reward of a “hilariously unhinged” production, according to TJ Shay, stage manager. The production of Robert Askins’s “Hand to God” was delayed with the Feb. 20 snow day, but the performances continued with the community’s support.
Director Rick Wilmore, who is in his 40th year at STLCC, said he wanted viewers to leave hopeful and to have an experience more impactful than just a clear, happy ending. “Even through the play’s vulgar humor, the messages were clear with help from the impressive acting,” he said.
“Hand to God” examines grief and community through the lens of a middle school child, Jason, (David Brooks) and a heartbroken mother, Margery, (Daphne Kelley) who have both been struggling after the passing of the father. The only thing keeping them sane is the puppet club at their church.
Two other kids in the club, Jessica (Jordyn Maserang) and Tim (Brandon Noel OrtizAvila), and the Pastor (Adam Wells) requested they put on a performance for the church on Sunday. With the deadline fast approaching, the puppet club starts to fall apart. The stress of the performance is the last straw that pushes Margery and Jason to break.
With the help of the puppets, they wrestle with their emotions in a witty, yet serious 2nd act. Even with a sentient puppet, the show navigates complex feelings with a sense of childish familiarity that makes it easy to comprehend- even after the laughter stops.
Abby Pastorello, Chloe Ortiz-Avila, and Lena Westerbeck who usually just do costumes for STLCC-Meramec productions, stepped up to help with on stage set
changes and prop upkeep and assemblyas well as their usual duties. Food-based special effect squibs also led to laundry duty after each night’s performance. The original Sound Op, Alex Palme, was unable to make it so Teressa Millering, the previous Light Op, stepped in to do sound and Donny Dischert became the new light boy.
For the cast and crew, the community and people make the experience a rewarding one.
HIBA OBEED STAFF
illiam Chu, an educational assistant for the Center for Visual Technology (CVT) Lab in the art department, brings a harmonious blend of animation and hands-on craftsmanship to the creative space. With a background in visual media, including a Bachelor of Arts degree in animation and filmmaking, Chu helps students navigate and explore the lab’s cutting-edge technology—including 3D-printers, laser cutters, and high-end design software— to bring their unique creations to life. His own work crosses multiple mediums, from metal sculpture and woodwork to 3D-printed pieces, embodying his philosophy of pushing creative boundaries.
What kind of equipment is used?
This lab is basically a state-of-the-art computer lab where creativity meets cutting-edge technology. What we have in our lab is a laser cutter, where you can etch, engrave and cut various materials, like wood, acrylic and leather. It’s perfect for custom design, intricate patterns and professional-quality prototypes. We also have a 3D-printer that you can create detailed models and functional prototypes with. Our large-format printers are perfect for producing posters, banners, blueprints and much more. It gives vibrant high quality prints in various sizes. We have a vinyl cutter that can create custom decals, signage and intricate designs in vinyl. Which is perfect for this department- for creative and professional projects. We also have high-end Macintosh computers with the latest software.
What’s your favorite tool or machine?
For my personal and professional development I think it’s the SLA printers, which are 3D-printers, because I do 3D-modeling for animation. I created the Bonsai trees that were featured in the art show last year using Maya and then printed them using the 3D-printer.
How do you think the technologies here in the CVT lab have evolved in recent years?
When the CVT first developed in 2000 all we had were high-end computers for printers, making posters, doing animation and video editing. Then we got to incorporate new technology. When 3D-printing and laser cutters became popular, we were able to introduce them into the curriculum. Now students can design, and cut intricate details and patterns. You can even scan objects, such as a chair or a person. Last year I scanned my coworker, and then turned the scan into a small action figure using the 3D-printer. Is there a piece of your art that you feel best represents your creative journey?
My creativity varies from woodworking to metal to glass work—it’s hard to say what I’m particularly fond of or which was my favorite. Everything excites me. I started my studies in photography— black and white photography. Then I broke away from that and I ventured into sculpting with metal.
My creative process for sculpting in metal begins with scavenging for scrap metal, where I see more than discarded materials—I see raw potential waiting to be transformed. Each piece carries a story in its shape, texture, and wear, guiding my imagination. Sometimes,
I recognize the suggestion of a figure, an abstract form, or an unexpected fusion of elements that spark inspiration. Once the vision takes shape in my mind, I bring it to life through welding, cutting, bending, and grinding, molding the metal into its new form. Each step balances precision and spontaneity, allowing the material’s character to shine while shaping it into something entirely new.
My artistic process of making a butcher block cutting board begins with selecting the finest hardwoods— cherry, maple, and other complementary wood—I choose each piece of wood for its grain pattern and color contrast to create a striking visual effect or enhance durability. Carefully cutting, planing, and arranging the pieces, you consider how each segment will interact when laminated together, achieving a seamless and visually appealing flow. I inspect each board, rejecting pieces with knots, cracks, or irregularities that could compromise the board’s strength and aesthetic appeal. Precision is key in the glue-up process, where each strip is bonded and clamped to create a solid, lasting structure.
After curing, I refine the surface through a meticulous sanding process, bringing out the natural beauty of the wood and ensuring a silky-smooth touch. The final steps—rounding edges, applying a food-safe finish, and buffing to perfection—transform the piece into a functional work of art, where craftsmanship meets everyday utility. The final product is not merely a cutting board; it’s a handcrafted masterpiece, combining durability, elegance, and a deep connection to the natural materials that brought it to life. My cultural background inspired me to craft 3D-printed bonsai trees, which symbolize harmony with nature, resilience, patience, balance, and the beauty of imperfection.
In Chinese culture, Bonsai represents peace, longevity, mindfulness, and spiritual reflection. To bring this
vision to life, I utilize the CVT’s high-tech equipment and advanced software. Using Autodesk Maya, I begin by creating a virtual clay mold, then stretch, add, divide, bend, and shape it into form. Once the 3D-model is complete, I send it to a resin 3D-printer to be transformed into a physical object. What’s one art project you’ve worked on that challenged you the most?
The angel wings sculpture, because they’re long and massive—I didn’t have an assistant so I had to figure out how to mount and weld the pieces myself while bending them into the right shape. Since the structure was so bulky, I had to create stands to hold the pieces while I welded. It was a challenge, but I was really happy with how it turned out.
Has working with students in the lab ever inspired your own art/creative work?
It’s almost like the other way around, because the students are coming in fresh— they’re really confused and they’re really nervous. I had to inspire them to bring out their creativity. But sometimes there’s always one person that stands out, and is super ambitious and that inspires me in return. I can help mold their creativity and I can show what the CVT lab offers for them.
If you could pursue and create any art project, with any medium, without any limitations, what would it be?
I’d love to incorporate everything—animation, sculpture, 3D printing, laser cutting—into making my own film. I would use 3D printers to create models, laser cutters to build scenery and every piece of equipment available to bring my vision to life.
RYAN WINZEN NEWS EDITOR
In the upcoming months, the Meramec Music Department will host two main concerts - the Spring Instrumental concert was performed on March 2 at 3 p.m., and the Major Works Concert is scheduled for May 4 at 3 p.m. Both events are free and in the Meramec Theater.
The Spring Instrumental concert featured both the orchestra and symphonic band. Orchestra members performed such pieces as “Hungarian March” by Berlioz, “Brook Green Suite” by Gustav Holst and selections from “Wicked.”
Director of instrumental studies, Grant said a clear theme will evolve from the performances of the symphonic band.
“All of them have some connection to the St. Louis area. The pieces include ‘Hands Across The Sea’ by John Philip Sousa, ‘Shenandoah’ by Frank Tichelo, ‘Symphony for Band’ by Vincent Persichetti, ‘The Entertainer’ by Scott Joplin and ‘Comet’ by local composer Matt McKeever,” said Unnerstall.
Unnerstall said he has a his history with having similar themes among concert pieces.
“It lets the audience anchor down to something. Even when I was teaching middle school we did a night at the movies, having music from Jurassic Park and Star Wars,” he said. “I did my PhD in Kansas City, so we did a similar thing, just with Kansas City related pieces.”
New to STLCC-Meramec this academic year, Unnerstall said the band is a
collaboration of students and community members.
“Currently, we have 50 musicians in the band. It is not necessarily just for music students. Even if you’re going into art, English, or played an instrument in high school, the band is open to join,” said Unnerstall.
The Major Works Concert will feature the concert choir, concert orchestra and symphonic band performing Mozart’s “Coronation Mass.” This will be the first combined concert since before the pandemic.
Professor and music program coordinator Jerry Myers said he is excited about the upcoming performances.
“For me, it’s the excitement of performing in front of a live audience and to see
all the hard work our students and community members have put in,” said Myers.
The combination of different ensembles is also an exciting event, according to Myers.
“For the May concert, that feature piece was chosen as a way to feature many of our musicians, both student and community,” he said. “We have a couple of extra rehearsals so we get used to working together with the same piece.”
Getting involved is also easy for Meramec students, said Myers.
“Register for any of the ensemble classes. There are classes for band, choir, orchestra, and even jazz combos. They are core 42 courses available for students and community members through continuing education,” he said.
OLIVIA STACK STAFF
Getting motivation to go to the gym can be difficult. However, looking stylish doesn’t have to be. From typical athleisure brands such as Nike and Adidas to new emerging brands such as ALO, you’ll be able to be fit and fashionable.
Nike Pro Leggings have gained popularity in the past few years. They are becoming a classic option for the gym. The webbing in the material whisks away sweat and moisture. So whether you’re either running a few miles on the treadmill or getting a few lunges in, these leggings provide great benefits.
Another brand making a comeback this year is Adidas. After their athletic line peaked in 2018, they are releasing new pieces. These pieces feature their iconic stripe logo with a variety of neutral colors. This is a great option for those who like the classics and want to relive that era of fashion. This line consists of sports bras, fitted leggings, tank tops,
sweatshirts and so much more.
During the spike of COVID-19, OnCloud Nova Running Shoes boosted in sales. These shoes offered great support and cushioning for serious runners.
According to Best Daily Trainer, these shoes ranked number one for best trainer shoes in 2025. This year, they released new athleisure wear in addition to their popular shoes. This line is associated with celebrities such as the Hadid’s and the Jenner family. In addition to moisture-wicking sports bras, leggings, and sweatshirts, they also offer a court sports dress. This is a perfect line for those who want to look classy and elegant while exercising.
In addition to certain brands, you can also have a certain aesthetic to match the vibe of your workout. For example, “ballet core” is regaining popularity after surging in 2022. Ballet core is essentially combining ballet style with modern athleisure wear. An example of this is Gym Shark’s athletic line in 2023 featuring cami tanks, ruched training bras, and bodysuits.
Alot can be said about the relatively large whopping that Democrats received in last year’s November elections. Donald Trump, against all odds and all of the charges against him, pulled a Grover Cleveland. He seized control of the Presidency once more, winning both the popular and electoral votes. Republicans seized a narrow majority in the Senate while retaining their narrow majority in the House of Representatives. That Congressional majority will hold for at least the next two years.
Crying about it now all these months later feels a bit like whining. But it’s still worth saying. Almost every day watching cable news feels like chaos, and that’s not nothing.
The American people voted for this. They actively voted for extremism, hate, misogyny and bigotry to rule the day, and I can’t really articulate how much I think they’ll come to regret that decision. I don’t think, despite my confidence that logic and reason would prevail, that I was surprised this time that he won. The last 8 years have prepared me and many others for this possibility. This isn’t like 2016. Trump was never an underdog this time, and he already had an advantage going in (and I’m not talking about gerrymandering). His victory was always a possibility. Trump/Pence 2016 was a surprise, but Trump/Vance 2024 was a choice.
But how did America get this so wrong? Was it really the price of eggs and gasoline? Many will say that’s the case. But the truth, whether they’ll ever admit it or not, the reasons Trump won are much, much darker.
The media
I recently wrote a column about how traditional media had failed the country, and I stand by that column, even if I think some of that non-traditional media actively cost Kamala Harris the election. While it’s easy to understand why, their normalization of Trump’s behavior absolutely played a role in the public’s perception of him.
It’s also alarming that Elon Musk literally bought the most widely-used social media platform and has basically turned it into a right-wing hate machine.
Without a doubt, these factors played a major role in helping to normalize a demagogue. And the normalization looks to continue, with multiple billionaires like Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos and TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew now “bending the
knee” and allowing misinformation and censorship (in Bezos’ case) to rule the day.
The truth of the matter is that most of the more popular traditional and non-traditional media sources in this country are controlled by Republicans, or by those that don’t have the integrity or courage to speak out against misinformation. Going forward, that may be the biggest challenge in combating the administration’s more controversial policies.
Democrats play by the rules, Republicans don’t
Democrats, despite all their relative morality and playing within the rules, have failed to accurately read the room, and effectively stuck their fingers in their ears, pretending that everything was fine and people were thrilled with the direction of the country. As a result, they failed to win back the House of Representatives, they lost the Senate and obviously, they lost the Presidency. In hindsight, Democrats should have made a better effort to actually reach out and represent the interests of their less-crazy constituents. But even that may not have worked.
That being said, a Trump presidency still is by far the worst-case scenario for America, at least until the 120th United States Congress begins in January 2027. It’s entirely possible that Republicans will lose the House and/or the Senate at that point, which might be the only check on his power until he leaves office in January 2029 (maybe). It’s a scenario that Trump’s current Chief of Staff Susie Wiles is on the record as anticipating, and it’s why they’re “flooding the zone” as much as they can with their agenda.
JACOB POLITTE MANAGING EDITOR
His methods don’t matter to them, as long as those methods help them to retain and expand their power.
The truth of the matter is this: Trump projects an air of strength, warranted or not. He is perceived to be a disrupter, and that’s not an entirely off base perception. While a Democratic challenger may not be as crass or as corrupt as Trump, the next Democratic leader absolutely needs to be the same kind of disrupter in terms of action and possibly even attitude.
Much like most politics in general, the Democrats have an age issue. While it doesn’t appear to affect Republicans or their support all that much (considering that we just elected a 78-year old as to be our President), it’s absolutely demoralizing to see it happen with the Democrats. A new generation needs to step up to lead, but they won’t get there without forcefully taking it from the old generation. And that’s not as easy as it sounds.
Ignoring history, and attempting to rewrite it
An argument has been made that Trump is “like Hitler” and there has been some notable push-back on it. The thing though about it is that, yes, electing Trump in 2024 was the equivalent of electing Hitler in 1939.
The similarities in their rise and their actions are just too similar. I’m not just talking about the racist rally in Madison Square Garden, and not just about the fact that they’re both convicted felons who were voted back in to power.
Threatening citizens and critics and journalists. Threatening to seize lands like Greenland, or talking about forcing Canada to join the union. Attempting to overturn, nullify and terminate the Constitution. Attempting to circumvent Congressional oversight and the courts, with the full support of his Vice President JD Vance. Having Elon Musk and a bunch of racist, terminally online followers slash the budgets and attempt to eliminate entire departments and functions of government with no real understanding of why that’s bad. Calling himself a king.
All of that and more is literally happening
“The American people voted for this.”
But Democrats in leadership positions have made very little effort to fight Trump’s agenda and his more outlandish actions. Hakeem Jefferies has been a disappointment. People like Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez who do have that energy are routinely blocked from advancing into leadership positions. Chuck Schumer and Gerry Connolly, two of the most prominent Democrat leaders, lack the energy needed to do so. Connolly, in particular, just seems befuddled that Republicans haven’t turned on Trump yet. Why would they do that? The Republicans greatest successes of the century, and possibly since the Reagan administration, have occurred under the Trump regime.
been disqualified from the nomination process. In no way is he anywhere near qualified to run the Department of Defense just because Trump liked watching him on Fox News every Saturday morning. Yet, he was confirmed anyway.
While he withdrew the nomination, Trump also originally wanted actual, proven pedophile Matt Gaetz as Attorney General? Give me a break.
Pam Bondi may not be a pedophile, but isn’t much better from an ethical standpoint required to oversee the country’s justice system. Yet, she was confirmed anyway.
Kash Patel, the QAnon conspiracy theorist with a detailed enemies list, now is the head of the FBI. That’s terrifying. So is RFK Jr. leading the Department of Health and Human Services, and Tulsi Gabbard leading the Department of National Intelligence despite her relationship with problematic entities.
Linda McMahon being confirmed as Secretary of Education is disgraceful. The former wrestling executive is much more problematic than most people realize, and that’s not even factoring in her disgraced, perverted husband being one of Trump’s best friends.
Trump’s mental state
right now. Anyone who says otherwise is simply denying reality and ignoring history. These are exactly the kind of things that Hitler did leading up to the Holocaust. It’s quite literally right in front of you. Minimizing that behavior and intent is dangerous.
Another worrying sign is that total loyalists are being installed in cabinet and agency positions. Almost none of his picks are qualified, and several of them have been credibly accused of participating in and/ or covering up sexual assault and abuse.
Pete Hegseth’s contentious Senate confirmation hearing highlighted his very real shortcomings, including his drinking problem and the very credible sexual assault accusations against him, and his only real response to that was “I’m not a perfect person.” That’s not a denial, and almost anyone else would have
On top of everything previously talked about here, the fact of the matter is: Donald Trump is old. Very old. When he leaves office, he’ll be one year older than Joe Biden is right now. And despite all the (justifiable) concern about Biden’s age and cognitive abilities, pretending like Trump is an upgrade is being actively ignorant. He’s not, and if anything, he’s much more influenceable than Biden or any of his predecessors ever were. That is not a good thing when global standing in the world is at stake. Look at the recent events where he’s unequivocally thrown support behind Russia and claimed that Ukraine started the war. It’s blatantly untrue, but of course he’d say that… he’s friendly with Putin. But make no mistake about it: it’s not Putin that’s on the leash.
We’re in for a rough next four years. Some of us just don’t realize it yet. Some of us refuse to believe that, having their head in the clouds and ignoring the very active threat to democracy that Trump poses. Some of us refuse to believe that’s not hyperbole. It’s not hyperbole. The system needs to change, but fire-boming democracy and dismantling government institutions is not the answer. It just flat out isn’t. You can’t just burn it all down and rebuild it. America doesn’t have the infrastructure for that. The truth is that I have no idea what’s going to happen over the next four years, and no real plan to combat it. But I do know that it’s not going to be pretty, and that it will take literal decades to recover from.
JACK JURSNICH
OPINIONS EDITOR
The recent spending cuts to USAID have made a lot of Democrats mad. Senators and protestors were at the capitol the other day protesting against Trump’s decision to shut down the agency, and while they had a lot to say about people losing jobs and foreign aid being lost, they didn’t comment on why these cuts were made.
A list of cuts was published on the White House website. Here are a few examples: $1.5 million to “advance DEI in Serbia’s workplaces”; $2 million for sex changes in Guatemala; $6 million to fund tourism in Egypt; Hundreds of millions to “support heroin production in Afghanistan”; $2.5 million for electric cars in Vietnam. The list goes on and on.
Although I find it strange that none of these protesters and congress members want to comment on these cuts, I find their justification for other foreign aid to be beyond naive. According to NPR, one
USAID employee was concerned that “it’s only a matter of time before Ebola breaks out of Uganda because USAID is not there.” Why is it America’s job to control Ebola in Uganda? Why can’t Uganda get it under control themselves?
I’m not saying that we should do away with all foreign aid, and neither is Trump according to Marco Rubio and Ro Khanna, but why are we taking over the duties of other countries while we have a debt to pay. Wouldn’t it make sense to get our own country under control first before lending a hand to others? Moreso, if we are to help another country, shouldn’t it be to get them on their own feet instead of being a leech to the US?
compensation or get it themselves, not piggyback off American tax dollars.
But I’m still not done with these protestors. Many of them are upset with Elon Musk being in charge of allocating federal funding, chanting things like “Nobody Elected Elon.” Sure, they may not have elected Elon, but it seems over half the country made a mandate for this kind of change. On that point, did
“Our country could be the most prosperous in the world, with the abundance to help others, but it will never happen if we continue to prioritize others over America first.”
The decision to shut down USAID isn’t because we don’t want to help other countries, it’s because these countries are taking advantage of us, and all that money can be used to pay off our debt instead of funding terrorist groups and sex changes. If these countries want these things, then they either offer
anyone elect the people managing these funds? Did anyone vote for sex changes in Guatemala? Or electric cars in Vietnam?
Yeah, I thought not, so what the hell are these Democrats talking about?
These senators and congress members
do their best MLK impression to try to emotionally blackmail people into thinking that these funds actually went to something important. They yap about federal employees losing jobs, but unfortunately, that’s what happens when there’s debt to be paid. Congressman Maxwell Frost said that “Americans deserve transparency” but it’s funny, if Americans didn’t vote for Trump – along with Elon Musk – then I bet no one would have seen these funds in the first place. So it strikes me as either ignorant or willfully naive for all these senators and protestors to act like Karens and get worked up over something that never benefited them. They can be upset by any withdrawal in foreign aid, but what they just don’t seem to understand is that all that aid could’ve gone to help them. The people have a right to decide where their tax dollars go, so why is our government quietly making that decision for us? Our country could be the most prosperous in the world, with the abundance to help others, but it will never happen if we continue to prioritize others over America first.
IAN SCHRAUTH STAFF WRITER
Kim Jong Un is the current supreme leader and dictator of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, also known as North Korea. For years, the country has been hidden by its leaders, Kim Il Sung, Kim Jung Il, and as of 2011, Kim Jung Un. However, this possibly could change sometime in the future to include Kim Jong Un’s younger sister, Kim Yo Jung. Most of the world learned about her existence when Kim Jung Il passed away in 2011 from a photo of her crying with her older brother. When Kim Jong Un took power, he promoted her to head the ”Propaganda and Agitation department”, which is responsible for keeping the North Korean population in check, and keeping them completely loyal to her brother.
Even though her title ranks below anyone else in the North Korean Regime, the fact that she is in the right bloodline gives her an advantage over everyone else, and will possibly be the first female Supreme Leader of North Korea. We know this because of some hints in North Korean media. The media in this part of the world is very calculated, according to Su-jin Chun, an author and journalist at JoongAng Ilbo. Chun also said that “Sometimes we see Kim Yo Jong standing next to her brother, Kim Jong Un, and she’s, like, totally carefree, and nobody, except for Kim Yo Jong can be that carefree standing next to Kim Jong Un”. A more recent example comes from a 2019 propaganda photo on Mt. Paektu, a area where the Korean people and culture originated, according to Korean Mythology. Each North Korean
leader has been photographed on this mountain in history. In this specific photo, Kim Yo Jung is right next to him on a white horse with a star emblem that represents the Mt. Paektu dynasty. According to Chun, not everyone can ride that specific horse with that specific emblem.
But if Kim Jong un were to pass away, would his sister make drastic changes for the good of North Korea? I don’t think so.
Firstly, I believe this because she was good at running the current scheme, that Kim Jong Un promoted her to a Member of North Korea’s top decision making body. She is also rumored to be promoted to First Secretary of the Party, which is basically Kim Jong Un’s righthand-man (or right-hand-woman in this
case). I do not think that she would want to give up that power.
The second reason why I believe this is because in 2020, she started issuing many statements in her own name directed at South Korea’s leader. These statements include calling their leaders “puppets” and calling them their “unchaining enemy”. She then ordered the destruction of an office building built specifically for North and South Korea relations, calling it “useless.”
Kim Yo Jong is not just the most powerful woman in the North Korean regime, but she is the most powerful person who is not a supreme leader. All of this information leads me to believe that when Kim Jong Un passes away, she will not only be the next supreme leader, but she will make things a living hell.
JACOB POLITTE MANAGING EDITOR
As The Montage celebrates its 60th anniversary this school year, it’s notable that archived digital copies that can be viewed by readers on The Montage’s “Issuu” page only date back to 2010. The rest are not lost to time, however. Print copies, both loose and binded, still exist. They date all the way back to the very first issue in 1964 and can be accessed in the Library.
As we approach the next volume of issues, The Montage would like to take you back in time to some of our past issues throughout the coming school year. This month, we’re taking a look back at former staffer Dalila Kahvedzic’s profile of someone who was once a longtime Meramec presence.
Ron Mirikitani was a tenured instructor and wrestling coach at Meramec, and in 2015, Montage Art & Life Editor Dalila Kahvedzic profiled him extensively in that year’s March 12 issue.
Mirikitani, who was born in an internment camp during World War II, explained how the challenges he faced led him to pursue a career teaching personal defense.
“It was never popular to be Japanese back then so I had different confrontations and my father just started teaching me how to protect myself,” Mirikitani said. “I saw a lot of injustices there.”
Some of those injustices included Mirkitani’s parents’ farm being seized, as well as the forced closure of his
grandparents barber shop.
“It was not a good situation back then,” he said.
Mirkitani said that those kinds of experiences remained with him as he began his career teaching at Meramec four decades prior, and informed the kind of instructor he’d become.
At the time of the interview, he taught karate, personal defense and judo at Meramec.
“I enjoy all three of these classes,” Mirikitani told Kahvedzic. “Judo is a lot of grabbing and throwing there and Karate is a lot of kicking and punching and blocking; they’re all interesting.”
Mirikitani has not taught at STLCC since 2018. However, he is currently listed as an assistant varsity wrestling coach for the Webster Groves School District.
Meramec has not had a wrestling team since 2011, when it was eliminated due to budget cuts.
To read this story, as well as the full March 12, 2015 issue, scan the QR code below:
BEATRICE JOHNSON STAFF
STLCC offers several competitive sports across their campuses, all of which compete under the name of the Archers, with teams made up of players from all campuses.
The STLCC Archers hold tryouts for their variety of teams throughout the year, for student athletes with experience on the field.
All STLCC campuses host different kinds of sports, though all STLCC students are eligible to try out for any team. Meramec hosts the volleyball, softball, baseball, and women’s basketball teams.
STLCC is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) as well as the Midwest Community College Athletic Conference (MCCAC).
The Archers are composed of experienced student athletes, some of whom are recruited from high schools both within the country and internationally.
“We highly encourage students to have some sort of experience coming in, because we bring in students with that experience,” said Athletic Director Sharon
Marquardt.
There are certain expectations that student athletes are expected to be able to meet.
At STLCC, they are required to be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours, attend three hours of study hall, and attend practices, says Marquardt.
“We refer to being a student athlete as a full time job,” she said.
Students who are interested should reach out to the team they would like to try out for by completing their recruitment questionnaire.
Students who complete this questionnaire will be contacted by the coach with the team’s need for players and if applicable, dates for tryouts, says Marquardt.
The questionnaire can be found on the archersathletics.com website, or by scanning the QR code below:
