Senate tied 6-6, vice president breaks vote to pass resolution
Rebekah Weaver ARGONAUT
At the Feb. 12 ASUI Senate meeting, ASUI voted 7-6 to pass a resolution congratulating President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance on the presidential election.
The resolution was authored by a student and sponsored by Senator Izaak Krohn, who said, “It is important for us as a student government to recognize and congratulate the new leaders of our country, especially when these leaders are working
for the bettering of the country and the livelihoods of students.”
Krohn claimed support for the resolution on the grounds of the Trump administration “creating seven million jobs” and Trump’s work in deregulation, specifically citing the Department of Government Efficiency. Krohn also claimed that there is “massive benefit in shutting down the federal Department of Education” by reducing government overreach and restoring educational power to local government systems.
Senator Arielle Hebison proposed that this resolution was a good opportunity to show the true bipartisanship of ASUI and that the resolution would “make ASUI look more well-rounded as a whole.”
“When we speak tonight, we’re speaking for the students we represent, not just ourselves,” Hebison said.
However, Senator Lance Butikofer remained in strong opposition to passing the resolution.
“I don’t believe this resolution is the vehicle to bipartisanship,” Butikofer said. “I believe it is the vehicle to polarization.”
Butikofer argued against the clause in the resolution that claims Trump was part of a “peaceful transfer of power,” calling it a rewrite of history.
“Passing this resolution would be an attempt to defy history and distort the reality of Trump’s actions,” he said.
Butikofer motioned to postpone the resolution indefinitely, which would eliminate all further discussion of the resolution and remove it from the Senate agenda. This motion was dismissed 7-5.
The roll call vote to pass the resolution resulted in a tie. Vice President Emma Johnston placed a tiebreaking vote, ultimately approving it.
ASUI also voted to approve a resolution criticizing the Idaho Legislature’s efforts to ban gay marriage.
Vision 2050 hosts final plan review
Community-driven 25-year plan will improve three campus zones
Julia Kolman ARGONAUT
Feb. 4 marked the culmination of nearly a full year of work on Vision 2050, the long-range campus development plan spearheaded by architecture planning firm SmithGroup. On Tuesday, the firm’s representative, Neal Kessler, laid out a final project summary and plan review before touching on the next steps to make Vision 2050 a reality.
Vision 2050 centers on connectivity throughout campus, building on the current foundation to establish a vibrant, fluid college community. Spanning over the next 25 years, it will take steps to make sure our campus remains strong and thriving for generations of UI students.
“It’s been really fantastic to have so many people involved,” Kessler said, regarding the project’s current standing. “[There are] so many voices that really care about the University of Idaho.”
Kessler discussed hopes to establish three distinct “zones” across campus, tentatively named Legacy Crossing, Campus Core and Athletics and Events.
Legacy Crossing would focus on the connection between downtown Moscow and the UI campus by expanding the Hello Walk through campus. The zone would center around what is now Paradise Creek, creating a walkable seam between the two. This district would establish mixed-use developments and include a medical education district, expanding on the Huckabay WWAMI building.
The Campus Core district is, true to its name, the central part of campus. These renovations would focus on prioritizing pedestrians, shutting down sixth Street to vehicle use, and focusing on campus walkability.
Finally, Athletics and Events would encapsulate the area surrounding the Kibbie Dome, refining the athletic sector.
From here, the project is now looking at the next steps to bring all of these ideas to fruition.
Throughout the next few months, documents will be finalized, cementing Vision 2050.
When asked for a statement regarding what this all means for current university students, Kessler said, “[It’s a] super exciting time for them. They’ve had a real voice in this process, really big voice in what the future of their campus holds.”
He emphasized that while these renovations won’t be utilized by current students, they’ll be present when they send their kids here.
State wants to enact DEI laws
Idaho Legislature proposes bill to remove university DEI requirements
Paige Wilton ARGONAUT
Idaho lawmakers are looking to double down on the Idaho State Board of Education’s recent decision to ban diversity, equity and inclusion services in higher education with a new bill.
This legislation would prohibit DEI courses from being required for any degree, unless they are for a degree path that is primarily focused on racial, ethnic or gender studies. It would not ban DEI discussions altogether, though it would put restrictions on the topics.
The one to suggest this was Republican Senator Ben Toews of Coeur d’Alene. He presented the draft on Jan. 9 and has since received mixed reactions towards it. In his Statement of Purpose, Toews describes what he wants the bill to affect.
“It prohibits DEI-based discrimination in admission and hiring, DEI-related employee incentives, DEI offices and officer positions, diversity training and bias reporting systems. Students also may not be forced to enroll in a course designed and implemented with DEI principles unless their chosen course of study is based on these concepts.”
Toews did not respond to The Argonaut for comment, but his ideas and opinions can be seen in the meeting videos posted by the Idaho Legislature.
Opposing the idea is lone Democrat Melissa Wintrow, the state Senate Minority Leader and the only one to vote no on the proposition.
Though Wintrow has many fears about this bill coming to fruition, her most pressing issue is the First Amendment breach it would cause.
“[Toews] is saying you can’t require people to learn certain things but you can require them to learn others, and that’s a First Amendment violation,” Wintrow said to The Argonaut. “The government has picked concepts, ideas and theories that they say you may not do training on. And that’s a violation.”
While the bill has not been passed yet, Wintrow is confident that it will.
In the Jan. 9 Idaho Legislature meeting, Toews reaffirms that free speech on the topics will still be allowed as well as conversations, but required courses on that content will not. He claims it will not be an infringement on rights.
“It’s important that we are not restricting any form of speech in this legislation. The goal is to make sure that all speech is allowed. That’s based on state and federal law,” Toews said. Toews is cited having shared a story about the experience of a conservative student in his daughter’s university class. The student spoke of feeling uncomfortable and unwelcome in a course because of her own political beliefs. Wintrow was disappointed by both the story and its use in context. She expressed how, as Senate Minority Leader, she feels uncomfortable in legislation daily.
“College education—any education—is about cognitive dissonance. It’s about discomfort, so we can learn.”
Reagan Jones | Argonaut See page 3 for full story on new ASUI monument
John Keegan | Argonaut PSU forward Isaiah Johnson goes up for a layup over two UI players
Health Center reopens
Renovated facility to offer vaccines, medical services
Joshua Reisenfeld ARGONAUT
The University of Idaho Student Health Center reopened in 2025 following a semester-long closure.
Having closed due to remodeling, the renovations upgraded the building’s original floor plan from 1923, improving accessibility and hospitality.
The center was previously operated as a branch of Gritman Medical Center. The organization is now under the Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana and Idaho School of Medicine partnership.
The change in organizational structure allows for an experience targeted towards the students, including the decoration. Art and Architecture students will paint a Vandal-themed mural over the summer, one of many additions meant to “Vandalize the place,” as Operations Manager Anita Packwood put it.
Under this new system, it will be easier for medical students to earn their clinical hours through shadowing appointments or practicing under supervision. Patient permission is needed for either to occur.
New medical equipment was also purchased, including a digital scale and blood pressure monitor. Vision 2050, UI’s long term development track, seeks to have all student health services in a single building. With the anticipation of moving to a new building, the health center purchased movable medical equipment.
Two primary healthcare providers are on staff, including Dr. Charla Willis, who works as a part-time provider and a part-time WWAMI professor, and Sheila Price, a full-time nurse practitioner. There is an ongoing search for a third.
The Student Health Center offers primary care, walk-ins, preventive care and minor procedures.
Packwood recommends students visit for common colds, medical checks, physical exams or stitches. The health center’s other features include medical counseling, reproductive health services and STD testing.
Starting in the fall 2025 semester, common vaccines will be offered. The center will also host the vaccine clinic event run by Vandal Health Education, previously held at the Student Recreation Center.
It is a student’s choice to visit the health center or another facility. Packwood still invites students to “come and see us; we’re here to help.”
For extreme ailments such as fevers above 103
degrees Fahrenheit or broken bones, students should visit a hospital with an emergency department such as Gritman Medical Center.
Appointments can be made over the phone, in person or on the clinic patient portal. The center accepts most in-network insurance, leaving students responsible for only the copay. Packwood has seen a range between $25 and $70. For those using the Student Health Insurance Program, the copay is $25.
The Vandal Health Clinic is located at 831 Ash St in Moscow. Be sure to use the west entrance facing the Life Sciences South building.
Rec Center expansions in the works
Plan, also known as Vision 2050, these additions are in an effort to bring new life to campus.
The LRCDP, which is projected to be completed by 2050, will include a renewal of the SRC, a new Vandal Health Center and the Guy Wicks field complex.
On Tuesday, Feb. 4, a meeting was held to discuss new architectural plans for the Student Recreation Center. Part of the Long-Range Campus Development
Trevor Fulton, the Executive Director for Recreation and Wellbeing, said that he and his team are looking forward to the possibilities this plan brings.
Though this project will not be set to break ground for years, he explains that student input is valuable now.
“We did a targeted, wide-range reach-out to students and said, ‘You’ve been involved in this previously, here’s an opportunity to provide feedback based on what we’ve already heard,’” Fulton said.
The plan, Fulton explained, would be a multi-step effort to better campus health in a number of ways.
He hopes that in this LRCDP, health services like the Vandal Health Clinic and Counseling and Mental Health Center will begin to center around the SRC.
“I think there’s a potential to co-locate different programs down in this general region, and that’s kind of the making of this holistic health and wellbeing area on campus that’s directly servicing students,” Fulton said. “Instead of all these programs being scattered, how do we centralize it, have it close to university student housing, and have it readily accessible and functionally a little bit better for students to use.”
Alhough it’s a plan with a 25-year range of execution, Fulton estimates that the SRC expansion will begin in the next three to five years.
Planned to be on the west and south sides of the building, the new addition would potentially include common requests from students, such as additional court, weight floor and open fitness space.
As more collaboration happens between UI and the architect group, more information regarding the plan will be shared. While it’s not yet in the design stage, Fulton is very excited about the benefits the plan will bring to student life on campus.
Fulton encourages students to take a look at the LRCDP project, as he says student input is valuable.
“Ultimately, we can’t do any of this without the help of students,” Fulton said.
John Keegan | Argonaut
The front help desk of the newly revamped Student Health Center
Joe Vandal sculpting sparks engagement
ASUI President shares that final product is set for fruition by spring 2026
Paige Wilton ARGONAUT
Last week, sculptor Gareth Curtiss successfully created a model of a Joe Vandal statue, one that will honor the work of ASUI. The week was filled with interactive moments revolving around art and the Vandal community.
The model, a smaller version of what’s to come, was created as students, faculty and passers-by got to watch and engage.
ASUI President Martha Smith said that the realized statue will be built by Curtiss over the next year. It is projected to be done by spring of 2026.
Smith said that student feedback, an aspect that was critical from the start, is what made this such a success.
“The Vandal Spirit is shown through the feedback from the student body and the enthusiasm we’ve received throughout the process,” Smith said. “It’s been really neat to watch alumni and current students be excited and engaged through this.”
Day-to-day student engagement in the process demonstrated this. A unique opportunity, many people found great excitement in the art that was being made right before their eyes.
Ari Morris, a second-year architecture student who witnessed the sculpture being crafted, agreed that the choice to conduct the work live and factor student involvement into the project brought a unique level of interaction.
“I think the live sculpting was a great way to engage the student population and involve them in
the process of making something permanent on the campus,” said Morris. “By holding it in the ISUB, it not only draws interest from those passing through, but also creates involvement from people who may have had no clue what it was about.”
As a way to spark connection, Curtiss gave demonstrations and speeches throughout his days on campus, which could be seen by anyone walking past.
Curtiss, a Montana native with decades of sculpting experience, was chosen to do the project out of a pool of dozens of applicants. For Smith, the selection process and ultimately working with him was the most thrilling part of the project.
“I really enjoyed the artist selection,” Smith said. “We had a ton of applicants and going through them helped me learn a lot about the world of art. I’ve also loved watching the project come to fruition after hours of brainstorming and deliberation.”
Reagan Jones | Argonaut
Sculptor Gareth Curtiss in the midst of bringing Joe Vandal to life
Reagan Jones | Argonaut The completed statue model
Movies to watch for Valentine’s Day
If you love romance movies, here are some options you can watch
Layla Phillis
ARGONAUT
Valentine’s Day is coming up soon, which means it’s the season for romance movies! Here are a few recommendations in this genre that you can watch with your significant other, your date or by yourself.
“We Live in Time”
Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield collaborate as the leads in “We Live in Time,” a newer romance movie that came out in October 2024. A recently divorced man and a restaurant chef meet under unexpected circumstances and quickly fall in love. The two grapple with challenges that are thrown in their path as they build a life together in this heart-gripping film. You will find yourself rooting for their time to never end.
“The Princess Bride”
If you love fantasy and romance, “The Princess Bride” is a classic mustwatch. This older film from the 1980s is about two lovers, a farm boy and a princess, who get separated and must find each other again. Despite kidnapping, near-death and heartbreak, Westley and Buttercup are determined to reunite and run away to live their happily ever after.
“Brokeback Mountain”
This western movie from 2005 is about the doomed love between two cowboys, played by Jake Gyllenhaal and Heath Ledger. They begin as strang-
ers who work as sheepherders on the same farm, eventually developing a close friendship that proves to be something more. Tethered to each other’s wives and home lives, they fight to keep their secret affair going in the face of guilt and homophobia.
“The Notebook”
Steering away from tragic endings is the popular movie “The Notebook,” starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. This story of young love follows Allie and Noah, who come from two different social classes but fall for each other anyway. In the midst of their relationship, Allie’s parents disapprove of Noah’s poorer status and the family moves back to their hometown. Noah’s ensuing years are spent yearning, hoping she will come back to him.
“Amélie”
If you are interested in foreign films, the French romance movie “Amélie” is worth a watch. A shy and imaginative waitress who lives in the heart of Paris finds a passion for making those around her happy. She discovers Nino, a man with an odd photo collaging hobby, and becomes smitten. Realizing that she’s fallen in love, she leads him on a game of cat and mouse through the city while battling her inner fear of revealing who she is.
“A Portrait of a Lady on Fire”
This beautiful romantic drama tells the story of an artist and her muse in 18th-century France. Marianne, a painter, is commissioned to paint a wedding portrait of Héloïse without her knowledge. The portrait is meant
Date night spots for Valentine’s Day
Take your significant other somewhere special to celebrate the holiday Sierra Rode
ARGONAUT
Valentine’s Day is almost here, so these are some recommendations for places to visit to celebrate the holiday of love.
Maialina Pizzeria Napoletana
If you’re in the mood for some Italian cuisine or Neapolitan pizza, Maialina is the place for you. All their food is made from scratch to create stellar meals. Their pesto pizza is a popular choice. The ambiance is perfect for a romantic evening with your date. The price range is about $20-30 per meal.
Gambino’s
Another option for Italian food could be Gambino’s. It has a more casual atmosphere, but it’s still great for a classy date. They’re known for thin and stuffed crust pies, craft beers and homemade gelato. Their best-selling item is their real New Oreleans french bread. They will have specialty cocktails and wine pairing menus for Valentine’s Day. The price range is about $20-30 per meal.
La Casa Lopez
Looking for a lively mealtime? La Casa Lopez has a wonderful atmosphere and an overall joyful feel to it from the music, beautiful art and friendly staff. Serving Mexican food for almost 30 years, they’ll happily make your date a fun time. Their carne asada dish is a fan favorite. The price is about $20 a meal.
Moscow Alehouse
For a more casual date setting, Moscow Alehouse might be the best choice. Burgers and fries paired with a craft brew are one of their many specialties. Their signature huckleberry bacon burger is their most popular dish. They are offering a free personal cheesecake with the purchase of a menu item on
to be sent to a nobleman, who will decide if Héloïse is good enough to marry him. Posing as her companion, Marianne observes her throughout the day, and paints by candlelight at night. Their friendship slowly grows into an intimate and romantic bond, each sacrificing parts of their lives for each other to spend more time together before Héloïse is married off.
“Entergalactic”
Written by none other than Kid Cudi, “Entergalactic” is an animated romantic comedy created as a visual companion to his musical album of the same name.
Released in 2022, this movie is about a young artist moving into his dream Manhattan apartment and falling for his neighbor. He struggles with finding a balance between his personal life, career and love in the bustling city as he works his way up to success.
Valentine’s Day. The price is about $15 per meal.
John’s Alley Tavern
Another laid-back date spot is John’s Alley Tavern. Featuring live music and a unique setting, this bar is a great place to relax and enjoy time with your special someone. They’re hosting a Punk Palouse Fest Bloody Valentine fundraiser and serving specialty shots to celebrate the holiday.
Neat Whiskey Bar
If you and your date like to go out for drinks, Neat Whiskey Bar is a great spot. Serving various cocktails, this bar has a speakeasy setup and makes for a great place to spend the evening with your partner. The price range is about $10-20 per item.
Nectar Restaurant and Wine
If you’re looking for a fancier place for drinks and a meal, this is the spot to go. With a clean and classy setting, it’s perfect for having a good meal and enjoying conversation with your date. The filet mignon is their most popular dish. They will have a special menu for Valentine’s Day. The price range is $20-40 per meal.
Bucer’s Coffee House Pub
A more cozy date setting could be Bucer’s Coffee House Pub. This place doubles as a café and a bar and serves house-roasted coffee, baked goods, beer and wine. There is also weekly live music to enjoy. Their baked goods are a big hit among customers. The price range is about $10-20 per meal.
Panhandle Cone & Coffee
For a casual place to go with your date, Panhandle Cone & Coffee is the place for you! They offer a wide variety of ice cream, including seasonal or dairy-free selections. The salted caramel brown butter cookie ice cream is a must-have. They will have Valentine’s Day specials until Feb. 16. The price range is about $2-6 per item.
“Meet Joe Black” Brad Pitt and Claire Forlani star in this 1998 romantic film about death, sacrifice and love. Death, disguised as a man named Joe Black, comes to Earth to find and claim the life of Bill, a multimillionaire. However, tired of his eternal responsibilities, Death strikes a deal. If Bill acts as his guide around the mortal world, he will spare
Decadent Chocolate Mousse Brownies
A delightfully rich and sweet treat for Valentine’s Day Megan Kingsley ARGONAUT Crumbs
These chocolate mousse brownies are the perfect combination of familiar and fancy. The base layer is a rich, homemade brownie that will put any store-bought mix to shame. Then, it’s topped with a fluffy, chocolate mousse. The end result? One of the best desserts you’ve ever tasted.
Ingredients for the Brownies:
- 4 eggs
- 2 c. sugar
- 8 oz. butter, melted
-1 ¼ c. cocoa powder
-1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1/3 c. flour
- 1/2 tsp. salt
Ingredients for the Mousse:
- 10 oz. chocolate (can be melting chips, bar, etc.)
- 2 ½ c. heavy whipping cream
- 2 ¼ tsp. unflavored gelatin
- 2 tbsp. water
Instructions for the Brownies:
1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.
2. Line a 13x9-inch pan with parchment paper. It’s best to leave extra on the sides for easy removal later. Spray with baking spray to prevent sticking.
3. Beat eggs until fluffy. Add sugar and combine, then add remaining ingredients.
4. Pour mixture into pan. I find it best to
even out the surface with a rubber spatula. 5. Bake for 20-35 minutes. Once done, set aside to cool, but keep the brownies in the pan.
Instructions for the Chocolate
Mousse:
Melt the chocolate. This can be done by microwaving in 30-second intervals and stirring, or by melting in a heatproof bowl over a simmering pot of water. Set aside once melted.
Mix gelatin and water. Set aside for 10 minutes.
Bring 1/2 cup heavy cream to a boil. Add gelatin mixture and stir to combine. Once cream and gelatin are combined, add half of the mixture to the melted chocolate and combine. Once thoroughly mixed, add the other half.
In a bowl, mix the other 2 cups of heavy cream until soft peaks form. This is when the cream starts to stand up but still falls over on itself. This is best to do with a hand or stand mixer, as it will take some time.
Once the chocolate mixture has cooled, combine with whipped cream and create your chocolate mousse!
Once the brownies have cooled, pour mousse on top and spread evenly. Let sit overnight to allow the mousse to fully set.
Enjoy!
Optional: Once the brownies have cooled overnight, you can cut them into fun shapes with cookie cutters.
Brooklynn Jolley | Argonaut Romance, rom-coms and other Valentine’s Day-related movies on Netflix
Megan Kingsley
The Regional Theatre of the Palouse presents “TOOTSIE”
An exploration of real issues and ideas through a comedic lens
Macy Gilbert ARGONAUT
Feb. 13-23, the Broadway Tony Award winning musical “TOOTSIE” will be presented by the Regional Theatre of the Palouse. Tickets are available online or in-person for matinees at 1:30 p.m. and evening shows at 7:30 p.m. The cost ranges from $30-$35 with group sales and student discounts available.
“TOOTSIE” is ranked as one of the best comedies of all time on American Film Institute’s list of “100 Years... 100 Laughs.” It won two Tony Awards for Best Book of a Musical and Best Performance by a Leading Actor in a Musical.
The show follows the story of an actor named Michael Dorsey with a “reputation for volatility” as he attempts to disguise himself as actress Dorothy Michaels to obtain a role in a Broadway musical. However, his path to success is halted by a thrilling love story with his co-star, Julie. The musical performance’s “hilarious dialogue” and the reflected effort of all involved are sure to please the crowd.
The show’s director, John Rich, said, “While packed with a lot of laughs, the story has a lot of heart and an important message on walking in another’s shoes, even when they’re stilettos.”
Experienced actors Andres Felipe
“Henry’s
The Carpenters serve more than a good meal
Sophia Robertson ARGONAUT
Connection, family and community are what bring people together. These are also the ingredients brought together to create Henry’s Lumpia, the authentic Filipino food truck found in downtown Moscow.
Originating in Lewiston, the familyowned business expanded into the Moscow farmer’s market in the spring of 2024, eventually finding their home on wheels to finish out the year.
Henry’s Lumpia is open Wednesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. as well as Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., located on 625 S. Jackson Street.
They serve delicious lumpia, of course, but also many other dishes such as pancit, various barbeque skewers, adobo and rice.
The owner, Melissa Carpenter,
and Becky Saunders are stepping into the roles of Dorsey and Rita Marshall, while Julie will be played by Daphne Gunn. These thespians are from all over the country and have been brought together by this performance.
“Blending national talent fosters a creative playground, a true actors paradise and helps set not only the bar but local participants’ sights higher as to what we can achieve together,” Rich said.
“[While] the premise of this piece is not new, it touches all people by depicting how the human spirit inspires and endures,” Saunders said. The passion of all involved in the project is clear, demonstrated by their excitement and endorsement.
The Regional Theatre of the Palouse is committed to keeping the arts alive and entertaining a crowd while relaying messages with depth. Lead actor Felipe said, “One of the last safe spaces for free speech and thinking is the theater. TOOTSIE presents a storyline that balances real, timeless issues relevant today and comedy.”
Felipe hopes that his role as Dorsey will give him “the chance to entertain the audience and hopefully leave them thinking about their roles in society.”
Felipe’s sentiment reflects the goal of the venue as their mission is to foster creativity, provide effort in all they do and inject the arts with livelihood.
“Telling someone’s story is an exceptionally rewarding experience, but especially so when it’s as fun, free and
Lumpia” opens in Moscow
runs the business with the help of her husband. Originally from the Philippines, Carpenter explains what it means to serve authentic Filipino food here in Moscow.
“It’s so personal, like you get to share a bit of yourself,” she said. “People who had experience with the [Filipino] culture and wanted to experience it again could do it through a little plate of food. It’s so heartwarming.”
Henry’s Lumpia allows her to start conversations, share her culture and provide a space of familiarity with the people of Moscow.
Carpenter said, “For those who don’t know about Filipino cuisine, I hope that it will open the door for them to learn more and explore it…It’s a good bridge to use food for those kinds of conversations.”
While chopping ingredients and manning the grill are a huge part of their booming new business, it’s more than just serving great food.
She said, “We try to remember our
customers. It’s not just somebody who buys something from you; they’re buying an experience. And so, you make sure that the Filipino hospitality shines through in each little interaction.”
Although she spends plenty of time cooking now, it wasn’t always the case. As a child growing up in the Philippines, Carpenter was never interested in recipes or cookbooks. Her dad was a great cook, leaving her with no need to learn. It wasn’t until she was a young adult living away from home that cooking really clicked.
“I first learned to cook because I wanted to budget and eat healthy. I learned to cook the meals that I really remember liking as a child and that’s where it all started,” she said.
She took the time and dedicated herself to learning each recipe correctly, providing others with the opportunity to enjoy authentic Filipino cuisine.
“It’s just that, what if I’m too tired to cook?” Carpenter said. “Sometimes I want to go out and eat something that’s
familiar to me.”
She realized that when cooking her own meals, she had the ability to make her favorite dishes without the shortcuts. As Henry’s Lumpia expands, this mindset has stayed the same.
Henry’s Lumpia would not be complete without its family-centric roots, and this goes down to the establishment’s own name. The Carpenters explain how their eldest son, Henry, became the namesake for their restaurant on wheels.
At three years old, Henry finished half of a plate of lumpia on his own while the adults were turned around. He was lovingly giving lumpia the name of “Loompy-Loomps” while accidentally giving his parents the name of their new family business.
Moscow’s latest food truck proves that connection is central to the community atmosphere and that Carpenter’s favorite way to connect is through a fresh plate of lumpia.
ASUI will host the Winter Social
An evening full of fun activities and new memories
Brooklynn Jolley ARGONAUT
ASUI is set to host their annual event, the Winter Social, on Feb. 19 from 6-8 p.m. in the ISUB.
Entry to the event is completely free and open to all students.
There will be plenty of fun activities, free food and over $400 worth of giveaways and raffles.
They plan to make this year’s Winter Social bigger and better than ever before with a lot of fun surprises planned for attendees.
This is a staple event hosted by ASUI and can be a fun night to create some new memories with your friends.
Getting out of your house and socializing can be difficult when the weather gets cold, so this event is a good opportunity to put yourself out there and make new friends!
fabulous as TOOTSIE,” Gunn said.
If you’re looking for a local theatrical experience or a night of laughter, this comedic play checks all the boxes.
John Rich | Courtesy
Andres Felipe as Michael Dorsey in “TOOTSIE”
Ashley Kramer | Argonaut
Melissa Carpenter, the owner of Henry’s Lumpia
Beyond the buzzer: Olivia Ne1son
Missouri to Moscow
Jayden Barfuss ARGONAUT
Dribbling at the top of the key, graduate guard Olivia Nelson scanned the defense, feeling the weight of her journey from the quiet courts of Central Missouri to the bright lights of Idaho. She made a quick cut to the right, crossed over and drove toward the basket.
She rose into the air with a burst of speed, the ball leaving her hand in a perfect arc. The net snapped cleanly as the ball fell through, and ICCU Arena erupted. For Nelson, it wasn’t just the points that mattered. It was the story that had brought her here and the undeniable feeling that, despite the odds, she had found her place on this stage.
“It’s a surreal feeling every time I hear the band going, hear the fans that know your name, it’s awesome,” Nelson said.
Nelson’s journey began on the courts of Kansas City, Missouri, where she, from the age of 5 years old, played basketball and fell in love with it, besides growing up and trying other sports such as softball, soccer and cross country.
Nelson, who chose basketball as her sport of choice, attended Liberty High School and began to make a name for herself. Nelson’s hard work and time in the gym paid off, as she excelled and led the Lady Blue Jays to two District Championships and finished in fourth place in the State Tournament in 2017-18. Nelson was named a First Team All-Conference performer four straight years ago, won conference MVP as a senior, and accomplished scoring 1,000 points. Nelson left Liberty looking for the next step in her journey.
Her next stop was an hour down the road at Central Missouri Univer sity, where she played for the Jennies. During her four-year outstanding career for the Jennies, Nelson played almost 4,000 minutes, posted 1,573 points and was key to the Jennies
success for four seasons.
Nelson decided to transfer to the University of Idaho for both academics and basketball. Even though she had to undergo a coaching change, she remained committed to the Vandals.
“I ended up having to transfer for my fifth year because they didn’t have my master’s [chemistry] program. If they did, I probably would have stayed,” Nelson said.
“So I entered the portal for my fifth year and then ended up finding Devon and Carrie Eighmey.” They reached out, and I knew them from my old school because we played against each other and then committed here.
Eighmey, who was a huge part of Nelson, left Idaho a few weeks later and left the Vandals without a coach until assistant coach Arthur Moreira got promoted to head coach.
Moreira’s big influence in
small-town feeling of Moscow,” Nelson said. Jen always jokes that our favorite place to go is The Breakfast Club. We go every Saturday, and it brings us all together.”
On the court for the Vandals, Nelson’s journey wasn’t always smooth. Nelson hit some bumps in her first couple of games for the black and gold. With her transition from DII to DI, she had to face BYU and Washington State in her first two games, and she struggled and had to adjust.
A transition from Divison II to Divison I is never easy, and for Nelson, the size of the players was her biggest transition to Division I.
“One of the biggest adjustments coming from the Division II to the Big Sky is that the teams are much longer and taller,” Nelson said. “The point guards are 5’9” 5’ 10”, which is very different than my
Moreira has seen Nelson’s hard work and determination show out on the court since her first couple of games.
“When you come from the Division II level and already competing against bigger, faster, stronger athletes, it takes a while to adjust,” Moreira said.
“We’re seeing her getting more comfortable. I feel like it took her a little bit to adjust, but now you can see it,” Moreria said. “How she’s been playing is probably the best basketball she’s played in her entire career.”
On the court, Nelson thrives, and off the court, she is the same story. She continues to work towards her master’s in chemistry while also building her relationships off the court.
“Off the court, [I am] is always busy; besides basketball, I’m constantly trying to get schoolwork done. I think school takes a big priority,” Nelson said. “Then I love hanging out with my friends whenever we have the the team, having the team come over to watch the bachelor play games, and Nelson who will graduate from UIget a job in forensic science and close
With her five years nearing the end
ICCU Arena and puts on that uniform
every shot and every roar of the crowd playing at this level, who faced count-
Every cheer, every chant, reminds tion that brought her here. As the final chapter of her Vandal career approachleaves behind that will inspire others
Idaho proving critics wrong one win at a time
“When we started the season, we had that mentality, okay, we picked eighth in the conference. Head Coach Arthur Moreira said. “We have something to prove; nobody knows us, nobody believed in us, besides us.”
In the early days of the season, the Idaho Women’s basketball team sat at the bottom of a mountain no one believed they could climb. The polls had spoken. The Vandals were picked eighth in the preseason poll. The players for the Vandals knew something the world didn’t, and they weren’t here to be predictable. They weren’t here to follow a script, they were here to write their own.
The Vandals welcomed 11 new players, nine transfers and two freshmen, with only three players from the previous season returning. This influx of new talent presented a challenge-to unite as one team and demonstrate the world the true potential of the Vandals.
Of those transfers, all five starters have started all 23 games for the
Vandals, including Schweizer, who transferred from the University of San Francisco, and sophomore guard Hope Hassmann, a California State Fullerton transfer.
Graduate forward Jennifer Aadland, who came from Augustana University. Graduate guard Olivia Nelson from Central Missouri and junior guard Anja Bukvic, who came from Louisiana Tech University.
With the team new to each other, they went on a team retreat that included some movies, pickleball, and a lot of competition, with the focus of coming together as a team.
“It was super fun,” graduate forward Rosie Schweizer said. “It got very competitive. It was a fun weekend, and with the coaches and players, that was fun, getting to know each other really well.”
As school began, the bond and chemistry continued to grow as their season approached. All that chemistry was put to the test when the team ran onto the court of the ICCU Arena for the first time, taking on Lewis and Clark State College. In that game, Idaho showed flashes of potential, giving the Vandal fans hope that this team could be special with the new players, coach and style of play that the Vandals were eager to showcase.
Idaho finished non-conference 8-3 and rode that wave of momentum when they traveled to Montana. The Vandals
The Vandals’ confidence and chemistry grew even more on and off the court, which has been a key to their success.
“It’s been good, that chemistry, building it block by block,” Schweizer said. “That’s what makes us such a good team because we want to spend time with each other.”
The Vandals have lost three of their last five and look to regain the fire and edge they lost over the last few games before they head to Boise at the end of the month.
“Do whatever it takes to prepare us to win the conference championship,” Moreira said. “I want to win all six games if you can, but I also want to gain some experience that if we face it in March and even during the postseason, we’re going to be able to overcome it. Whatever we need to do to be playing our best basketball in March is what we got to do.”
As the Vandals look to write the final chapter of a season that still has all its goals within reach, it is six games away from the ultimate prize: the Big Sky Championship.
This team has defied the odds and silenced the doubters, transforming from an overlooked underdog to a squad hungry to lift the trophy and bring it back to Moscow.
split the series, losing to Montana State and defeating Montana in Missoula for the fourth time.
John Keegan | Argonaut
Vandals celebrate a made 3pt shot from the bench against Lewis and Clark State College
Vandal Volleyball coaching staff confirmed
Kriskova officially named as head coach, Kasun stays assistant
Jackson Hamelund ARGONAUT
Romana Redondo Kriskova has officially been named head coach for the Idaho Vandals Volleyball team. Kriskova led the team this season as the interim head coach, with the team ending the season with a 1-26, 0-16 record.
She took over for former Head Coach Chris Gonzalez who she was an assistant coach to in the 2023-24 season. Gonzalez resigned from his position in May of 2024 after he was investigated when allegations came out about him abusing players and staff.
Kriskova was honored to take over the leadership role for the team.
“Obviously, I’m very grateful for the opportunity and eager to start this new chapter,” she said.
Although technically this will be her second season as the head coach, she considers this upcoming year to be the first for her and she’s very excited to take charge of the team and be responsible for all the new recruits that will be joining the team for the upcoming season.
“They are going to help us to create a culture we are trying to build here, so definitely excited about the new chapter,” Kriskova said.
So far, Kriskova does not necessarily have a goal for where she hopes the team will finish.
“Our first main focus is the gym culture, the work ethic, the competitiveness and the discipline,” Kriskova said. “All of these things that add up then at some point will lead us to better results.”
Her current focus is creating the gym culture as she has both returning players and players new to the program. She wants to create an “established base” and keep building from there.
The Vandals will see six girls return next year, all of whom are international players. Natalia Wielgus, Chiara Gennari, Madu Fontes, Ada Isik, Ceren Sert and Zuzanna Wieczorek will all be coming back next season. University of Idaho also currently has three new players on the roster, all from inside the U.S. However, there will be more to come as Kriskova adds more recruits during the summer and continues to build for the future.
Kriskova talked about team chemistry and how every team is different. She stated that when recruiting, they look at players’ personalities as well as their skills.
“We’re not only looking at them as players or students,” Kriskova said. “We are looking at them as people and all the characters they are bringing, trying to align with the culture we are trying to build here.”
She is ready for the new adventure to begin and to move on from the past as the team undergoes rebuilding.
“The characters we have in the gym, the personalities we have, are going to be huge for the program,” Kriskova said. “The new blood, new players, will make it easier for us to move on and create this new culture.”
She complimented the returning players who are welcoming the new recruits and the new players who are already doing a great job as well.
She is looking forward to getting things started with the new team. The team plans to compete in some spring games as well as summer camps. They also plan to connect with the community by volunteering. The players keeping up the great work they are doing in school is also something she believes is important.
“We are trying to focus on all different aspects so that we can progress not only on the court, but in all areas that will help us to build a program and bring people to come watch our games in the Memorial Gym,” Kriskova said.
UI is also keeping Ben Kasun as the assistant coach for the upcoming season. This will be his second season in the role. He called the official hiring of Kriskova the right and natural move and something he had been expecting.
Kasun also commended Kriskova on the great work of, “leading the team into this new era of Idaho volleyball.”
“We can officially move forward with things,” Kasun said. “We can really make some stronger and better moves now that we’re a little bit more solidified.”
Kriskova and Kasun led the team together for the first time last season, and although the result of a 1-26 regular season is not great, Kasun said, “The growth and improvement that we’ve made, establishing our culture, work ethic, these important things; we’re really seeing them translate now into our spring season. We know what we did this past fall is the right way to be moving about things and is setting us
up for a good future.”
Kasun is excited to begin his second season with the Vandals.
“It’s nice to have a little more time to get ready for the season. I’m really excited to see how our new players are going to work into the team and the chemistry and higher ceiling that we’re going to have for this team,” Kasun said.
Kasun believes this team will be a much quicker and more athletic team.
“I think the players that we’re bringing in may not be the tallest players, but they’re fast, they’re strong and they’re good volleyball players,” Kasun said. “So, I think we’re going to play to those strengths and be a pretty fast and fun team to watch.”
Big Sky events will continue to stream on ESPN+ for at least the next five years. Kriskova also hopes students in Moscow head to the Memorial Gym on campus to support the volleyball team next fall.
Ford Jr. announces signing of 33 new players
Depleted Vandals look to youth to replenish roster
Jack DeWitt
ARGONAUT
Idaho finished 10-4 on the season in November after a crushing loss to the then undefeated Montana St. Bobcats. The future looked ambiguous for fans, students and players, after Head Coach Jason Eck and skilled players left the program.
However, after some decisive hirings, signings and recruiting, Vandal football continues to show the fans that they are not rebuilding, but instead evolving.
On Feb. 5, Head Coach Thomas Ford
Jr. announced the signing of 33 new players to the program. Twenty-three of the players are high school recruits, seven are 4-year transfers and three are junior transfers.
Ford Jr. emphasized revamping the Idaho defense, signing 11 defensive lineman, six defensive backs and four linebackers. The offense only gained 12 total new players including five offensive linemen, three receivers, two running backs and two tight ends.
Most of the mid-year transfers and one freshman player are already on campus working out with the team. The Vandal’s spring practice begins on March 24 and will run until April 25—the day of which Idaho will play its annual Black vs. Gold spring game.
SPRING ROUNDUP
Mens Basketball vs. Sacramento State
Womens Volleyball vs. Sacramento State
Mens Tennis vs. Creighton University
Womens Tennis vs. Creighton University
Swimming vs. UTRGV
Track Riverfront Invitational
Jesuye Doherty - Conference Best Long Jump - 7.60m
Harrison Deshazer
Shepard Fish
Austin Flaherty
Jack Giannini
JoJo Matautia
Brody Michael
Sawyer Hewett
Mason Krahn
Caden Siegner
Nate Williams
Lonyatta Alexander Jr.
Will Cornelson
Oliver Fisher
Maurice Heims
Tim Jackson
Donovan Parham
Khaled Rawls
Martin Rhyne
Kai Richardson
Zahkari Spears
Howard Stedford
Ma’ake Apo
Brody Borrevik
Mason Culmer
Cameron Glenn
Ryan Holmes
Tsiyown Lowery
Nolan McWilliams
Wyatt Mickleberry
LeRonn Nelson
Taeshaun Reese
Jayden Rice-Claiborne
Caleb Ricks
SIGNEES
Washougal, WA / Washougal HS
Meridian, ID / Capital HS
Boise, ID / Borah HS
Eagle, ID / Eagle High School
Renton, WA / Eastside Catholic
Queen Creek, AZ / American Leadership Academy
Juliaetta, ID / Kendrick HS
Nampa, ID / Skyview HS Star, ID / Owyhee
Eagle, ID / Eagle HS
Auburn, WA / Montana State
Cedar Park, TX / Tyler JC
Sherwood, OR / Boise State
Hamburg, Germany / WSU
Van Nuys, CA / College of the Canyon
Lakeland, FL / Mississippi Valley State Walls, MS / NE Mississippi CC
Fort Lauderdale, FL / Western HS
Puyallup, WA / Oregon State
Los Angeles, CA / UCONN
Orlando, FL / Pace University
Orem, UT / Orem HS
Eugene, OR / Sheldon HS
Chandler, AZ / Basha HS
Springfield, OR / Sheldon HS
West Linn, OR / West Linn HS
Maple Valley, WA / Tahoma HS
Auburn, WA / Roosevelt HS
Bothell, WA / Bothell HS
Sacramento, CA / Destiny Christian Academy
Meridian, ID / Meridian HS
Tacoma, WA / Curtis HS
Gonzales, LA / St. Amant HS
Vandal Athletics | Courtesy
Romana Redondo Kriskova talking with player mid-game
“The
blueprint is set”
Thomas Ford Jr. and players look forward to future
Liam Bradford ARGONAUT
For better or for worse, the dynamic in the landscape of collegiate athletics has changed dramatically in the past four years. With the NCAA allowing its players the opportunity to make money through their own name, image and likeness (NIL), college athletes are constantly looking for better opportunities.
The common consensus among college athletes is that they deserve to be paid for the hard work and effort they put in on a daily basis. Vandals’ offensive lineman Nate Azzopardi is one such player who feels that athletes deserve a portion of the money that they make for their schools and for the NCAA. Azzopardi, however, also feels that “chemistry and relationships matter.”
With players often looking for chances to increase their income, it is difficult being a Division I FCS program, especially in football, where the NIL opportunities in Power 5 conferences are abundant.
Under Head Coach Jason Eck, Idaho made the FCS playoffs in all three of his seasons at the helm. However, this success inevitably led to several departures of key
personnel from the 2024 team when Eck signed with New Mexico and took seven players with him.
With a head coaching vacancy, the Vandals quickly named former Running Backs Coach Thomas Ford Jr. as the 37th head coach in school history. Ford is a prestigious recruiter who helped land a handful of current players during his time on the staff in 2022 and 2023.
Ford attributes his recruiting skills to his honesty and transparency with recruits and their families. He does not sugarcoat anything; he simply tells it as it is, and players seem to appreciate that. Ford’s straightforward attitude has made a lasting impact on his players.
“He was always real with me, and I appreciated that,” Azzopardi said. “I respect Coach Ford a lot, and he’s shown belief in me from the jump, even when others didn’t.”
Ford is well aware of the challenges of recruiting in today’s college football landscape, and he stresses the importance of role players staying put and developing team chemistry.
“I am under the guise of ‘If you’re not going to go make six figures to play at an FBS school, then you should stay here and help us win a championship.’
This is somewhere where we can win and be a part of something bigger than ourselves,” Ford said. “If our guys have a great experience here in Moscow, it gives them less reason to want to leave.”
The 2024 Vandals won 10 games, including a home playoff win, and were consistently one of the top teams in the Big Sky Conference. As expected in the NIL era, after such a successful season, the Vandals
anticipated having to replace a handful of its top players.
“You’ve got to probably plan to lose around 10 guys each year, but that’s a testament to the development we have here in our program,” Ford said. “We have a ton of kids on this roster that could totally play at FBS schools.”
This year’s list of key departures includes gamechangers like Jordan Dwyer, Mark Hamper, Keyshawn James-Newby, Jaxton Eck, Deshaun Buchanan, Zach Johnson, Ayden Knapik, Dallas Afalava, Diezel Wilkinson and others. All of these players transferred to FBS programs, with Dwyer, Hamper, Johnson, Knapik and Afalava all joining Power 5 programs, while most of the other transfers followed Eck to Albuquerque.
While Ford understands that the team faces an uphill battle this offseason, he is enthusiastically looking forward to the future of this program. He has coached at all levels of college football and embraces the high level of competition in the Big Sky. The ultimate goal for the Vandals is to win the Big Sky for the first time since 1992, something Ford is confident his team can do.
“The last 10 years have really shaped my outlook on what it takes to be a successful head coach,” Ford said.
“The number one thing that I have learned is to delegate. Hire really good people and let them do their jobs.”
His prior coaching experience has put Ford in a lot of rebuilding situations, and he has made it clear that Idaho is not rebuilding. He is confident in the system, especially after keeping Matt Linehan, whose familiarity with the offense will be critical to how smooth of a transition this offseason ends up being.
“I know this place has everything you could possibly ask for to be successful at the FCS level,” Ford said.
“The way to do it is having a process-oriented mentality. There are a lot of battles to be won before we ever actually step on the field.”
Ford has a special appreciation for Vandal football and the P1FCU Kibbie Dome. He says the magic of the dome and the impact it has on the fanbase, which he claims is the best in the FCS, made it easy for Ford to return to Moscow.
“The Kibbie Dome is the coolest place I’ve ever played in,” Ford said. “There is just something special about the dome. Maybe it’s the floating goalposts, maybe it is the lack of wind and perfect conditions, but when that dome is packed, and the Vandal Nation is rocking, I mean, there are not a lot of places more special than the Kibbie Dome.”
“I think what Idaho football has meant specifically to the Palouse is just a place of belonging,”
Ford said. “Regardless of the outcome of the game, the Vandals are going to play really hard, and it is going to be a lot of fun to watch. It is a brand of entertainment that is just different than anything else in the area.”
Ford is the first African American head coach in the programs history, a significant milestone for the school and the football community.
Ford acknowledges the importance of representation, and he hopes to inspire younger people with similar coaching aspirations.
“Whether I was black, brown, green or orange, I was the right person.
set” for Idaho Football
Obviously, it is a bit overwhelming when you look at the perspective of it, the gravity of it, but I think for me, I am just so blessed to be able to wear that hat. There could be 10 Black coaches to come after me, but I was the first, so the significance is not lost on me at all.”
Ford’s message to Vandal fans? The blueprint is set. A team coached by Ford is going to play physical, hard and smart. A catchphrase coined by Eck that Ford has adopted is, “We can’t let the Vandals beat the Vandals.”
With so many new faces, a veteran presence is an extremely key step towards success for Idaho. It all starts in the trenches with the offensive line, which is led by three-time captain Azzopardi, who Ford says, “embodies what it means to be a Vandal.”
Azzopardi plays a crucial role in mentoring a young group of linemen, a role that he claims would not be his if it had not been for Eck’s impact on him.
“He honestly changed my life,” Azzopardi said. “I would not be where I am today as a leader and football player without him. He and Coach Ford are different, but I view them both as great motivators who know how to lead men and instill a championship mentality in them.”
Following Idaho’s FCS quarterfinal loss to Montana State, Azzopardi was unsure about his future. He entered the transfer portal and debated retiring from football. The incoming senior lineman says his heart is in Moscow, and his appreciation for loyalty led Azzopardi to return to his role as a captain of the Vandals offense.
To Azzopardi, the bottom line is not losing players to the portal but rather the lack of postseason success the Vandals have had in recent years.
“We know what we’ve been doing isn’t good enough,” Azzopardi said. “I do not have a Big Sky ring on my finger, and I have not played in a national championship. We have to elevate to another level if we want to go even further, and that is a price that the guys in this locker room are willing to pay.”
Another offensive weapon that will be crucial to Idaho’s success in 2025 is running back Elisha Cummings. He ran for over 500 yards on 5.3 yards per carry in 2024 and put together strong showings against some of the toughest teams on the schedule.
Cummings emphasizes the importance of sticking together with a core group of guys who share a common goal. Ford said Cummings is like a son to him and anticipates a breakout season from the fourth year running back out of Waco, Texas.
“For a team to stay
consistent, it is so valuable for everyone to stick together and accomplish something with the people you started with,” Cummings said.
Cummings mulled the notion of transferring multiple times throughout his Idaho tenure, including this offseason when he remained in the portal until Ford’s hiring.
“I didn’t really want to start anywhere new for my last year,” Cummings said. “I felt it was only right to end this thing with the ones I came in with.”
Cummings described Ford as a father figure and a great coach. He even contemplated following Ford to Oregon State after his first coaching stint in Moscow. He ultimately decided to stay in Moscow, and everything has now come full circle for Ford and Cummings.
“The changes on the coaching staff will bring a lot of different energy to this team because the culture is there, and I think Coach Ford and the rest of the offensive staff have an excellent plan to get us going on that side of the ball,” Cummings said. “Idaho is really elevating this offseason to try and get ready. I believe with all my heart if we can run the ball, we can beat anybody.”
Idaho’s starting quarterback in 2024, Jack Layne, was among a handful of Vandals to follow Eck to New Mexico. Layne described Idaho as a great place with special people. His time as a Vandal was meaningful to him, and it was challenging for him to close the book on this chapter of his career.
Layne said New Mexico is a great fit for him because he believes in Eck’s vision, and he looks forward to playing FBS teams consistently. He also looks forward to being reunited with some of his former teammates on Eck’s squad down in Albuquerque.
“Coach Eck was one of a few coaches to take a chance on me out of high school. His leadership, drive and passion for his players is contagious,” Layne said. “UNM football is pretty much the NFL team in town. It is cool to have a major city fully supporting a college team.”
Layne said he loved the culture of Idaho football and the relationships he developed during his time in Moscow.
“The Vandals are in great hands. The returning guys bring back great leadership and experience,” Layne said. “The young guys are hungry and love to work. It is an exciting time to be a Vandal, trust me.”
The player who had the biggest impact on Idaho’s
offensive success in 2024, Dwyer, received a variety of offers from top-tier Division I schools and elected to transfer to Texas Christian University.
TCU stood out to Dwyer because of their prolific passing offense and the receivers who made up most of their production in 2024 have since left. He felt a connection to the wide receivers coach, as well as the starting signal-caller, Josh Hoover. Dwyer feels he is rounding out one of the best passing offenses in the nation and that it was the perfect move for him.
Dwyer said that under Ford and with Linehan as the offensive coordinator, the future of Vandal football is bright and emphasizes that the reason for his departure is primarily due to his ultimate goal of playing in the NFL.
“I have played a lot of meaningful football and learned a lot of things from the talented receivers that came before me. I accomplished great things here, but the coaches I came in with leaving was really hard for me. Really, everything I knew at Idaho had walked out the door.”
In the past two years, the Vandals’ offense has benefited from a variety of star power in the receiving room. In 2023, it was Hayden Hatten and Jermaine Jackson who produced at an all-conference level, and in 2024, it was Dwyer and Hamper.
After losing Dwyer and Hamper, watch for Emmerson Cortez-Menjivar to make an impact in the receiving game for the Vandals in 2025.
“I love and appreciate all the fans that pack the dome and support us week in and week out,”
Azzopardi said.
“I remember what those crowds looked like my first two years here, and I do not want to ever go back to that. Idaho is a program that needs to be winning and successful. This fan base and community deserves it.”
Valentine’s Day has lost its integrity
The holiday has changed from its original meaning
Chris Sprague
ARGONAUT
Valentine’s Day has a long and rich history stemming from ancient times, beginning as a nudist festival, then transforming into a Christian memorial. Today, it has become the consumerist holiday we all know.
The holiday has been conglomerated across several cultures and time periods.
Back in the days of Ancient Rome, the Romans celebrated a festival called Lupercalia. The Pagan festival took place Feb. 13-15 and celebrated love, sexuality and fertility. Part of the celebration involved running naked around Rome and sacrificing a goat. The festivities became more chaste over time and, as Christianity took its dominant spot in Roman culture, it became assimilated into Christian tradition.
The legend of St. Valentine is commonly considered to have started the holiday. It is said that Valentine was executed by the Roman emperor Claudius II after officiating Christian marriages.
Part of the legend explains that during Valentine’s imprisonment, he tutored a girl named Julia. Before Valentine’s execution, he sent a letter to Julia, signed, “From your Valentine.” This is where we get the idea of giving people valentines.
There were numerous other Valentine martyrs over the years. The Catholic Church recognized three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus. While Lupercalia survived the initial rise of Christendom, it was eventually outlawed by Pope Gelasius at the end of the 5th century. Gelasius replaced it with a
holiday on Feb. 14 called St. Valentine’s Day to honor all the martyred Valentines. This is how we got the holiday’s date, but it was not associated with love until later.
As St. Valentine’s Day moved toward modernity, values of love and partnership were added into Valentine’s Day canon.
People would exchange greetings for the holiday throughout the Middle Ages, starting to exchange homemade gifts and tokens of affection in the 18th century. By the 1840s, valentines started to be massproduced.
Valentine’s Day is an example of how Christian syncretism has changed festivals
Valentine’s Day should celebrate friendship
Prioritize more than romance
Hilary Valdez
ARGONAUT
Valentine’s Day is approaching fast. As reservations are booked and flowers are bought, several heated debates about the holiday are also ramping up. Many people absolutely adore Valentine’s Day and others believe it to be overrated, some even outright hating it.
Many argue that the holiday is based on unnecessary consumerism or that people shouldn’t need one specific day to show love for their partner.
On the other hand, others may feel bitter as they watch couples celebrate the holiday, making them feel lonely and left out. One of the only things most people agree on is the fact that the holiday is meant to celebrate romantic relationships — despite the many other types of
relationships that can play major roles in someone’s life. One of these relationships, which can have as much or even more impact on someone, is friendship.
It’s common for people to deem friendships as less important than romantic relationships. It’s socially acceptable that a romantic partner should take priority over your friends, even if your friends have been around longer. It is also expected that you put more time, effort and affection into romantic relationships, but it is generally seen as strange to do so with friends.
The media portrays romantic relationships as one of the most important parts of people’s lives and stories, while platonic ones are often in the background.
Not to mention, our culture tends to view romantic relationships as a lot more consistent and committed, especially because marriage is associated with romance.We don’t share these same views when it comes to friendships, at least not to the same extent.
However, there is no reason that people cannot
hold platonic and romantic relationships in equal regard. They are both relationships that can be incredibly important in people’s lives and they take time and effort to maintain and need similar things to stay healthy.
Many studies have also found that friendships help our physical health. Some suggest that having healthy friendships can be the best thing for mortality just behind giving up smoking. They are also shown to lower the risk of anxiety and depression as they provide both parties with emotional support, excitement and connection.
Valentine’s Day can be a wonderful time to dedicate love and appreciation to the people that matter in your life. That can still be a romantic partner for many, but as you move forward with your plans, take into consideration what you can do for and with your friends.
Whether you plan a dinner, take them out, make a gift or simply tell them that you love them, showing affection for your friends on Valentine’s Day can help strengthen your friendships and help everybody feel less isolated from each other.
of antiquity into the modern versions we know. Valentine’s Day has undergone drastic change throughout the two millennia it has existed.
From a nudist festival celebrated in the streets of Rome to a Christian celebration of executed martyrs, to an early modern celebration of love and partnership and the modern consumerist celebration of idealized love, these changes mirror the cultural shifts Western society has gone through.
Personally, I am excited to see how Valentine’s Day changes in the next couple decades as anti-consumerism is on
an upward trend in recent years.
Recently, there has been a lot of pushbacks against the holiday because of how corporate it has become. I agree with this—no one should have to spend hundreds of dollars on cheap chocolate and flowers.
The day should go back to its roots as a celebration of love, not a celebration of how much money corporations can squeeze from couples.
As these anti-consumerist attitudes grow in popular culture, I expect there to be a change in the way society celebrates this multi-faceted holiday.
Consumerism
has ruined Valentine’s Day It’s all about spending
Lexie Yates ARGONAUT
From Stanley cups to ever-changing fashion trends to random kitchen gadgets that you do not need, it is obvious that overconsumption has become a problem in our daily lives.
What happens when we take a holiday meant to celebrate love and turn it into a spending requirement? Why do we need to show a credit card statement to prove how much we appreciate one another?
Overconsumption runs wild during Valentine’s Day as stores stock up on candy, cheap cards, trinkets and themed jewelry and decor. However, Valentine’s Day should not be about buying the most
expensive gift—it should be about making your loved ones feel special.
We can even see that companies will sky rocket prices related to the holiday. A prime example of this phenomenon is roses, particularly red roses, the traditional lovers’ flower. One Manhattan florist sold a dozen red roses in a vase at $135 for each arrangement, according to a 2023 NPR article. The owners say they go through about 20,000 roses for this single day.
Another nightmare story is branded Valentine’s Day merchandise, such as Stanley. If you visit their website, you will find a simple pink Stanley that will cost you $45, not including taxes or shipping. To be clear, this is a simple 40-oz Stanley. The only unique thing about it is its color, “Winter Berry Shimmer.” While some
may think that this is an awesome deal and rush to buy it, we also need to remember that these $45 water containers have created a mass fear of lead contamination. Our society is so hyper-fixated on popularity that the moment a celebrity is holding some random product, we must have it too.
In the end, Valentine’s Day is a great holiday to celebrate with your loved ones, as well as wanting to give an oppurtunity for them to smile. It should not come with a financial ball-and-chain. Companies will continue to gouge prices until they’ve made your wallet an empty one. You should not feel the need to have every limited-edition item that comes out. If it wasn’t a trend, would you even want it?
Spend your money wisely this holiday season. There are other ways to show how much you love them.
Kramer
themed bears
Ashley Kramer | Argonaut Valentine’s Day candy at Walmart
Animation is remembering its potential
“League of Legends” inspired show “Arcane” is bringing artistry back
Julia Kolman ARGONAUT
Animation is an opportunity to bend the rules. When a film or show is animated, the artists can make their characters flow, stretch and move with unnatural grace and generally capture movement that’s impossible in liveaction cinema. But for a worrying few years, it felt like animation was getting stale.
Every new Disney princess has the same saucer-sized eyes and quirky mannerisms, and characters all have the same silhouettes. Anna and Elsa in “Frozen” are prime examples because they share the same base with different hair and makeup.
However, the state of 3D animation over the last couple of years has begun to inspire optimism. Ever since “SpiderMan: Into the Spider-Verse” was released in 2018, I was suddenly excited about the medium again. The film’s inspired blend of 2D and 3D elements brought the comic-book energy of “Spider-Man” to life.
Characters have Ben-Day shading— the pointillism technique you often see in older comics where clusters of dots create shadows and color—on their faces. Harsh 2D lines were drawn around their noses or eyes so that they looked like comic books come to life. It was something new.
The film wasn’t just animated to appeal to kids or to look flashy and fun, but because animation lent itself perfectly to the roots of the “SpiderMan” franchise: an illustrated comic. Rather than casting a live-action actor who looked like Miles Morales, they pulled him directly from the page to the screen, creating a fresh and interesting take on the modern superhero movie.
This encouraging turn in animation continued into 2021 when Netflix
released the first season of the animated series “Arcane.” “Arcane” is a spin on the 2009 multiplayer arena video game “League of Legends.”
The show was created to flesh out the in-game characters and add a gritty, deeper layer to the world that longtime players had come to know, and to introduce it to new viewers for the first time.
Spearheaded by French animation studio Fortiche, the series employed a mix of 3D and 2D elements, much
brushstrokes and characters have painted freckles and moles.
The combination of these distinct 2D elements adds dimension and character to every model, creating incredibly distinctive silhouettes and designs.
Where Spider-Verse employed Ben-Day shading and harsh to resemble its comic-book roots, Arcane opted to diverge from its source material, adding texture to the characters and world that can’t be seen in League of Legends’ animation,
like Spider-Verse, to create a visually stunning world and characters. 3D animation relies on what are essentially digitally sculpted models of characters and props. These models, called “rigs,” are then posed like action figures, frame by frame, to create movement on the screen.
To add texture and personality to these rigs, Fortiche’s animators would digitally paint on top of the 3D models like a doll, adding unique smudgy, streaky details to their characters’ faces. Shadows and highlights have visible
which is generally very smooth and blemish-free.
The second season of “Arcane” was released in November 2024, boasted a budget of $250 million for its nineepisode run and featured some of the most visually stunning sequences ever seen on screen. Simply put, the animation feels fun again. The colors, perspectives and movement of the show are palpable and unique to an animated format. You couldn’t make a live-action “Arcane” because the animation is fundamental to its identity
and style.
The physics of the show, the weight of the objects and the people on screen are simultaneously grounded yet completely fantastical. An excellent fight sequence in Act One of the second season demonstrates this beautifully where series protagonist Vi is fighting her antagonist Jinx. The pair fly through the air to achieve these incredible slow-motion shots of the two leaping towards each other, largely unburdened by gravity. Yet when they fall or take a hit, they fall hard, skid across the ground and crumple when struck. There’s such a grounded realism and weight to it that it immediately pulls the audience back to Earth.
This type of sequence can only be convincingly conveyed in animation. CG-ing a live action actor so that they can make unrealistic jumps and movements always looks inherently disjointed and wrong because, as humans, we can naturally recognize inhuman physics when applied to a real person. We can tell that it wouldn’t work in the real world, so it’s incredibly difficult to be taken seriously.
However, an animated character like Vi or Jinx can pull off a beautiful flow of action that’s simultaneously unrealistic and extremely realistic because they are animated. Their exaggerated movements are a key part of their character. Their animation is a core part of who they are. They can’t exist in a live-action setting because their format is fundamental to their core.
To see this point in action, “Arcane” seasons one and two are available to stream on Netflix. The series continues to demonstrate the hopeful new direction animation is going and the artistic aspect of animation is finally getting the attention it deserves again. The animation industry is being reminded of the unique advantages it has to live-action works and it is capitalizing. To learn more about the animation used in the show, you can check out the docuseries “Arcane: Bridging the Rift” on YouTube.
Mass deportation will have devastating effects
Donald Trump starts his deportation program despite many concerns
Hilary Valdez ARGONAUT
The deportation of thousands of undocumented immigrants is continuing under President Donald Trump’s executive order to launch “the largest deportation program in American history.” ICE raids started in Chicago and are now making their way across major U.S. cities.
Despite Trump and many other politicians claiming that mass deportation is for the well-being of the U.S., it will lead to many economic, social and civil rights issues.
Since the beginning of his second term in office, Trump has taken many actions that progress his deportation plan. He has opened previously protected places, like schools, churches and hospitals, to ICE officers, as well as announcing plans to send 30,000 undocumented immigrants to Guantanamo Bay.
While Guantanamo Bay is located in Cuba, it has been leased to the U.S. indefinitely due to a 1934 treaty. It has been previously used for the detention of high-risk criminals and terrorists. At its peak, it held around 680 prisoners, meaning the facilities are likely nowhere near the ability to hold the thousands of people Trump wants to send there.
Not to mention, many of the prisoners from the facility have reported inhumane conditions, violations of human rights and even torture. Although the U.S. has denied these claims, multiple have been proven and there have been reports of widespread hunger strikes by the prisoners.
Due to this, many activists have claimed that Trump’s plan with
Guantanamo Bay would be considered a concentration camp by definition and will likely pose incredible harm to the people sent there.
Even without the risk of Guantanamo Bay, ICE detention centers have been committing inhumane acts toward detainees for a long time now. It is common for reports of abuse and unsustainable conditions to pop up from ICE detention centers all over the country.
There have also been multiple cases of ICE questioning and arresting people without adequate reasoning. Some of the more recent instances include Native Americans, seemingly due to their shared physical traits with Latinos. Now, many communities are fearful of racial profiling and have been urged to carry documentation everywhere they go.
When ICE conducts raids, they leave a massive impact on the families affected. Many undocumented immigrants live in households with mixed legal statuses and a large number of them have children who are legal via birthright citizenship. When people in the household are deported, it separates families and can leave children without parents. Mixed legal status households could also see a massive drop in their income if their loved ones are deported, throwing many people into poverty.
Due to the targeting of undocumented immigrants, specifically from the southern border, people have begun to believe that all are dangerous and violent criminals. On the contrary, local and federal crime statistics show that undocumented people tend to commit less crime than other U.S. citizens.
Trump has been a huge player in this fearmongering and spreading of disinformation. In one of his notorious speeches back in 2015, he was
quoted saying in relation to Mexican undocumented immigrants: “They’re bringing drugs, they’re bringing crime. They’re rapists.”
Most undocumented immigrants participate in the U.S. labor force. It is estimated that 8 million undocumented
mass deportation. It is estimated that approximately $88 billion is sp ent annually to fund mass deportation efforts in the U.S.
Undocumented immigrants also have been estimated to pay around $100 billion in taxes every year,
immigrants are employed, especially in agriculture, construction and hospitality. These jobs tend to have low pay with intense labor and can be harmful to the body. If the immigrants who work these jobs were to be deported, there is not much likelihood that the roles could be replaced, especially since natural-born citizens are less likely to work in these positions.
Destabilizing the job market will by no means be the only cost of
according to the Institute of Taxation and Economic Policy, and they fuel the economy by being consumers. Many are entrepreneurs and own restaurants and shops. Without these people, local and federal economies could be thrown completely off balance.
As Trump continues to move forward with this deportation plan, it becomes increasingly important that we acknowledge all the effects this will have on the U.S. and the people within it.
Malia Barry | Courtesy
Painting of Jinx by University of Montana student Malia Barry
John Keegan Argonaut One of many signs held at the Moscow People’s March in East City Park
President discusses student fees
Pitman Center and the P1FCU Kibbie Dome running. Fees also support the Career Center, Vandal Entertainment, service breaks and more.
good as is or if it needs edits before passing it on to the Idaho State Board of Education.
It’s a long, important process that helps us steer the direction UI is taking financially and from a programming perspective. If you have questions about the specifics or would like to know more about the process, feel free to reach out.
Outside of those two things, our Director of Safety, Health and Wellness, Emily Roberts, has been working in conjunction with GPSA to put up safety signs near the Lionel Hampton School of Music and Alpha Kappa Lambda. I routinely have to dodge traffic there and I am sure many of you do as well, so we are excited to be working on this project.
Additionally, we are working on space allocations in the ISUB. If your organization is interested in having an official space, please check out the application on Engage. Our Director of Student Spaces, Udit Sipani, has been hard at work navigating the ISUB Board and we are excited for that process to begin.
Finally, we’ve had some good debates on the Senate floor in the last couple of weeks. Be sure to check out The Argonaut’s regular coverage of our meetings or show up to a Senate meeting on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the Clearwater/Whitewater Room. We love hearing from students.
As always, this is just a snippet of what ASUI is working on. Feel free to reach out if you have questions, concerns or just want to chat. Until next time, Go Vandals!
Martha Smith ASUI PRESIDENT
What’s up, Vandals! I hope everyone’s spring semester is progressing well.
ASUI has been preparing for our Winter Social for most of January and into February. It will be held on Feb. 19 from 6-8 p.m. in the ISUB. We’ll have free nachos for the first 500 people, a mechanical bull and several door prizes like a flat screen TV, an electric scooter and more.
You’ll also have the chance to check out clubs, resources and opportunities that the University of Idaho has to offer. It will be a fun night and a labor of love from ASUI, so be sure to come out!
Outside of the Winter Social, our student fee committee is wrapping up. As some of you may know, each of us pay student fees for amenities outside of academic tuition.
This helps keep facilities like the ISUB, Bruce
The fees also pay for ASUI’s budget, which we use to create programming for students such as the Winter Social. In the student fee hearing, members of ASUI, the Graduate and Professional Student Association and the Student Bar Association decide if certain student fees should be implemented or raised.
This year, we had a handful of presentations on the budget. I will be writing my letter to President Scott Green on our recommendations this week.
After Green reviews these, he then decides if it is
John Keegan | Argonaut
ASUI President Martha Smith addresses the Feb. 5 meeting
John Keegan | Argonaut
members of ASUI speaking at the meeting
THE MONTGOMERY GI BILL SELECT RESERVE EDCUATION BENEFIT
• Full-time enrollment: $481.00 for each full month
• 3/4-time enrollment: $360.00 for each full month
• 1/2-time enrollment: $240.00 for each full month
• Less than 1/2-time enrollment: $120.25 for each full month
• • TUITION ASSISTANCE
• $8,000 State Assistance per year.
• $4,500 Federal Assistance per year.
•
• ENLISTMENT BONUS
• $20,00 for qualified MOS
• In-State Tution for Enlisting
• HEALTH INSURANCE
• $51.95 Individual
• $256.87 Family
Students and employers meet at Career Fair in P1FCU Kibbie Dome
Résumés, business cards and handshakes were exchanged
John Keegan
ARGONAUT
On Wednesday, the P1FCU Kibbie Dome was packed with students and recruiters looking to fill internship and full-time job positions. Students entered from the campus side of the dome, put on a nametag with their name and major and entered the recruitment bustle. Dozens of booths wound through the field level of the stadium, pitching their positions.
John Keegan | Argonaut
An anatomical skeleton model, holding a thermometer in its mouth, stands in front of the UI WWAMI Medical Education booth
John Keegan Argonaut Joey Hewitt signs up for a UI email list
Ashley Kramer | Argonaut
Students converse with recruiters at Career Fair
Ashley Kramer | Argonaut
The UI Extension booth representatives pose for the camera
John Keegan | Argonaut A student points out some company swag at a booth
John Keegan | Argonaut
firefighter helmet and axe sit at an Idaho Forestry booth
John Keegan | Argonaut Recruiter booths bustle with student activity
