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As we have begun a new year, we typically think about resolutions or things we would like to change. A new year means a fresh new start. We can’t always control what goes on in the world around us, but we can make small changes to make ourselves more comfortable. Design trends for 2022 focus on natural materials, multifunctional spaces, comfort, well-being and personal expression. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected many parts of our everyday lives. So, it comes as no surprise that it affects some upcoming design trends. With some still working from home, the need for creativity, ...

University is not for everyone, and that’s fine

As a high school student, deciding what comes next after graduation can be challenging. The natural choice is college for some, but it’s not always the best choice. College enrollment numbers from spring 2021 showed a decline of 3 percent from a year earlier, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. It’s the largest spring semester enrollment decrease since 2011. More often, students are opting to learn technical or skilled trades, transition directly into the workforce or join the military. Others who want more time to consider which career path best suits ...

Kids, parents need holiday break for mental health

As an elementary school counselor, I believe the holiday break couldn’t come at a better time. We have finished one of the most challenging semesters, thanks to all the issues related to COVID-19. Since the pandemic began in early 2020, school counselors have noted students feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, relieved, worried, anxious and now thrilled for a break from the routine of a typical school day and night. These young students are excellent observers of their world, but they aren’t always the best at interpreting their world. Especially with young children — and sometimes ...

What a ‘drug czar’ can do to end crisis

The United States has a new “drug czar.” Last month, Dr. Rahul Gupta was sworn in as the director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, following his Senate confirmation in October. His installation comes amid soaring drug-related deaths across the country — a number that surpassed the dark milestone of 100,000 deaths in the previous calendar year, according to provisional data released Nov. 17 by the Centers for Disease Control, driven almost entirely by increasing prevalence of illicit fentanyl and its analogs. Even more alarming: data showing illicit ...

To secure its future, YSU must cut costs

Much has been reported in recent days regarding Youngstown State University’s enrollment, academic offerings and budget. Here, we will provide context to help clarify actions that are being taken and why they are necessary for YSU’s long-term sustainability as an institution of opportunity that inspires individuals, enhances futures and enriches lives. Let’s start in 2018, when the Higher Learning Commission, or HCL, awarded YSU a full 10-year re-accreditation. While HLC offered much praise, it also required a comprehensive review of all academic programs to ensure efficiency, ...

Vax-2-School intended to step up student vaccinations

For more than 10 months, the COVID-19 vaccines have been available to Ohioans, and many of us have eagerly rolled up our sleeves for them. Older Ohioans, who are especially at risk of death from the virus, have been the most motivated to get the shot. In fact, more than 88 percent of Ohioans ages 70 to 74 have been vaccinated. Conversely, many younger people have yet to receive the vaccine, with only 48 percent of 20- to 29-year-olds vaccinated — leaving more than half at risk of contracting COVID-19 at a time when the extremely infectious delta variant is among us and when many ...