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Operation in Caracas sparks global outrage and questions of legality Editor In Chief: Mia Maksimovic Managing Editors: Jackson Crawley, Carissa Smith Social Media Editors: Jordan Huser (EIC), Trenity Gray Web Editors: Belle Quarterman, Sha’mya Smith Section Editors (A&E): Jordan Freeman, Kelvin Marrero, Trevor O’Donoghue Section Editors (Features): Shaunice Price, Isabella Snellgrove Section Editors (Opinions): Esther Odediran, Zavier Richardson Section Editors (Sports): Samuel Corbitt, Brandon Johnson

Air Tight Air Conditioning Benita Cherry Rebecca Desmarais Paul & Tina Donner Dominique Forrest Tiffany Gray Sheri Harris Clarence Hodge Angela Huser Antoinette Jackson Meshondra Johnson Ella King Lashes by Carlie Mia Maksimovic Veronica & Axel Monzon Perez Israel Quarterman Naw Nring Jeff O’Dywer Lindsay Skinner Lou Ann Skinner Taiyo Matcha Café Phyliss Nicole Taylor, MD Michelle Tibbits

According to the Pentagon, the mission used advanced military technology and was carried out with “precision and limited risk.” Trump later addressed the nation in a televised statement, claiming Venezuela had “stolen American oil” and posed a threat to U.S. interests. He said the United States would temporarily “run” Venezuela to restore order and protect resources.

“This is about protecting what’s ours,” Trump said during the announcement.

His reasoning has elicited numerous reactions — and criticism — from foreign policy experts and legal In a decision that took the world by surprise, U.S. analysts.

Many of them quote that the action violates military forces captured Venezuelan President Nicolás the long-standing international precedent. CBS News Maduro in a “covert strike” authorized by President reported that the operDonald Trump in January 2026. ation was tied to bigger disputes over oil assets, though critics warn it sets a dangerous precedent for unilateral intervention.

SurinameCentral, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sgt Anthony L. Ortiz, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The operation took place in Caracas, immediately sparking a wave of debate over international law, executive power, and Venezuela’s future leadership.

Venezuelan officials referred to the strike as an act of aggression, and protests have erupted across Latin America as citizens demand Maduro’s release and denounce U.S. involvement.

More information is expected to be uncovered as officials continue to respond to the incident.

US Military, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

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2 | MARCH 2026

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FEATURES pendence and growing into adulthood. Although doubts are present, Frazier maintains a positive attitude towards her future.

Navigating uncertainty, independence, and the first steps into adulthood

By Trinity Hodge and Jada Stevens As graduation approaches, most seniors find themselves feeling excited and nervous about what’s to come. Life after high school looks different in the eyes of every student.

For most people, it’s about learning how to adapt rather than following a concrete plan because, as we know, life tends to throw unexpected curveballs. The pressure to have your life plan figured out can feel overwhelming.

"Overall, I'm ready for what's next," she stated. After high school, Frazier plans to continue her education and work towards a career that aligns with her passion and purpose. She also shared that her motivation for this is the idea of building a meaningful future and walking in her purpose while also pushing herself to grow through this chapter of her life.

Senior Mackenzie Frazier believes the shift after graduation is challenging because of how quickly the expectations change.

Moving from a structured environment to one where students must make their own choices can feel overwhelming at first. For Frazier, the future gives her feelings of excitement but a little uncertainty.

Participants learn about global communities through a variety of activities.

By Mico Jimenez & Abigail Norris

Most seniors feel the pressure to have their entire futures planned out, even while trying to still discover who they are and what they want to be. This pressure is also increased by never-ending questions and comparisons. “I think most seniors feel the need to have every step of their future figured out because society makes it seem as though we’re on a time crunch,” Porter-Dubois explained. “We already have these thoughts ourselves internally, but on top of that, constantly being asked what college we’re going to, what career we want, and what our plans are, even though we’re still young and figuring these things out."

allows students to explore their personal interests, gain experience in the real world, and develop new skillsets before committing to a career or college program. Investing time in volunteering can help students gain an idea of what their purpose is while allowing them to serve their communities and build valuable life skills. This period also builds confidence in students because it gives them experience and shows them what they're capable of achieving on their own.

Life after high school isn't necessarily about having everything figured out. It's about learning how to adapt and making the most out of every situation you're in. Whether students choose to take the path of college, a gap year, the military, or something else, everyone's new chapter is about growth and independence. Although the future may have uncertainties, the sky is the limit!

Porter-Dubois also pointed out the effect of social media and how it portrays young adults as perfect and as if they have everything together. This can lead to teens feeling behind and lowering their confidence. Despite the stress that’s attached to senior year, Porter-Dubois says there is still a level of excitement about this next phase in new experiences, connections, and discovering more about herself.

"The transition out of high school can be challenging because students suddenly have more independence and responsibility," Frazier said.

"I feel excited about starting a new chapter, but there's some nervousness because everything's changing so quickly.” She explained that the transition is a step towards inde-

For senior Vonshana Porter-Dubois, her biggest worry is making the “right” decisions in a short amount of time. “I’m most concerned about making perfect decisions after graduating,” she said. "As graduation approaches, important decisions are also coming like career paths, school choice, and majors."

For some students, taking a gap year or volunteering can provide clarity about the next steps and what they should look like.

According to Career Prep School, a gap year MACKENZIE FRAZIER / PHOTO PROVIDED

for their performances. Some students will represent places like Spain by doing a certain dance like flamenco, while others will sing cultural songs like AP Junior Jan Henin, leading to a large showcase of diversity.

“My favorite stuff about the international fair is getting to see different cultures and how the students represent where they’re from, and the foods and games, the dances, and stuff like that are very nice to see,” senior Mirah Flores said.

Imagine a day dedicated to showcasing the diverse cultures that are represented every day Booths consist of educational information all across our campus. This is the goal of the about each country and have games, food, and International Fair held on campus on February amazing interactive activities that draw in the 25, coordinated by the world languages teachers. attendees.

The International Fair allows students to ex“The booth that I did last year was the Philipplore other cultures through student performances, flag parades, fashion shows, and different booths representing countries. The fair also allows students to bring their family and friends to celebrate and participate in the event.

VONSHANA PORTER-DUBOIS / EAGLE TALON

pines, and it consisted of various interactive activities such as sipa, lato lato, and saying simple Tagalog phrases before getting food,” senior Miagrace Jimenez said. “I’m excited to run the booth because I get to share my culture with other students. It’s bittersweet because it is my senior year.”

trying not to have their feet caught in the collision of the sticks.

One of the most popular performances of the international fair is Tinikling, which is represented by Paxon’s tinikling group known as the “Pinoy Eagles.”

The International Fair educates the school community on different places and cultures from all around the world through various activities that the students have planned, making it an especially personal learning experience. Participants have an opportunity to learn more about the people they see every day.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the tinikling performance and seeing how they are doing after taking this year off from the group, and look at the foods and just see everything one more time for my senior year,” Flores stated.

“For the past 2 years, I did tinikling for the international fair,” Flores said. “I bonded with a lot of people, got to be one with my culture by doing Filipino dances and making memories and “It’s a great time to go with your friends and just having fun.” family to see what Paxon holds outside of acaLast year, tons of people gathered around to demics and stuff, and more than that, we are see the Pinoy Eagles’ performance. The tinikling representing our culture, our identity, our love performance shows students dancing and jump- for each other, and supporting each other,” Floing around huge bamboo sticks as they collide, res stated.

“The food is amazing, the variety is awesome, all of the families coming out to the event are really special, but I mostly love the student performances,” reading teacher Sheri Porubski said.

Students come together and sign up to do special performances to represent other cultures and to amaze guests who attend the multicultural event, showcasing their hard work and dedication.

“I’m looking forward to all of the performances this year because they are just all so wonderful because of the hard work the students are putting into these performances, their passion and time, it all inspires me,” Spanish teacher Elena Wigelsworth said. “I am excited to see the fruits of their labor.”

Students will often stay after school to prepare

MARCH 2026

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FEATURES

Imagine you were washing the dishes and heard a piercing screech from outside your house. Then imagine the next day you have an excruciating headache.

The next day, you can’t walk properly.

And the next day, you can’t interpret events unfolding right in front of you.

Throbbing pain, frozen limbs, and a dazed mind— Diplomat Kate Husband experienced all these symptoms for many years due to being a victim of Havana syndrome. Havana syndrome is a brain injury that causes severe headaches and cognitive symptoms. Kate is only one of thousands of people who suffer from Havana syndrome even now.

cluding children. The symptoms also always manifest as audio and vestibular (sensory and balance) phenomena, some of which have long-term, debilitating severity.

C.Stadler/Bwag, Public Domain, via Wikimedia Commons

There are a few theorized causes of Havana syndrome, like exposure to In 2016, various DOS (Department of neurotoxins, drugs, stress, or a case of State) employees at the U.S embassy in group hysteria. However, the leading Havana, Cuba, began to experience explanation is a mechanical device that many cognitive disruptions ranging is capable of “shooting” one of two from vertigo and blurry vision to cognikinds of directed energy pulses. tive dysfunction and hearing loss. This The first possibility is microwaves. incident was the beginning of a long, mysterious trail of cases known official- Microwaves are electromagnetic energy waves that work to heat things like froly as “anomalous health incidents” (AHI) but is commonly referred zen burgers through agitating the H2O (water) molecules’ polarity, causing to as Havana syndrome. them to spin billions of times per second and build up thermal energy. With this in mind, it’s not hard to believe that these waves can cause extreme damage, considering our brains are about 75% water and consequently make for a very vulnerable pink burger to these waves.

graines, nosebleeds, and recurrent vertigo. A few victims have even reported hearing a loud, piercing, but localized sound (meaning only the victim could hear it) at night and claimed that it seemed to be coming from a certain direction, like a window.

But that’s completely dependent on the victims’ personal accounts, and an obscure mystery like Havana syndrome surely doesn’t have much real, credible evidence to support its existence besides a few similar claims among some random government workers, right?

Interestingly enough, victims of Havana syndrome were also found to have undergone real, measurable changes in the makeup of their brains, where their white matter amounts had been physically altered according to the results of a neuroimaging test done through a study published in 2019.

The neuroimaging results in this study revealed that Havana syndrome victims had significantly smaller

It’s also important to mention that this was passed off as being caused by stress and group psychology, despite the fact that neither stress nor group psychology is capable of significantly impacting brain matter volume like this, and they certainly can’t cause these symptoms either.

But even with these contradictions, the claim that it had been only stress causing these problems has been echoed through media like Britannica and downplayed by agencies like the National Intelligence Council, which contributes to alienating the topic and the victims who already struggle to get proper care and face very real, recurring issues from Havana syndrome to this day.

But who could be doing this to these people? Is it some attack intended to hinder the efficiency of important American agencies? Is it a series of illegal and immoral experiments meant to test some secret psychological weapon?

Well, the idea of this being of foreign source is very unlikely according to numerous national intelligence agencies, and it’s hard to disagree.

After all, the negligence surrounding the research and handling of the Havana syndrome situation is a bit fishy, especially considering America’s past frontal, occipital, and parietal lobe with arguably immoral testing on huwhite matter volumes compared to the mans, like the Stateville penitentiary control group and a 16% decrease in malaria tests and the Guatemalan syphfunctional connectivity between audito- ilis tests, which harmed many people, Another contender for the cause of Havana syndrome is directed ultrasonic ry subnetworks, alongside a 10% deeven America’s own citizens. Somecrease in visuospatial subnetwork func- times, the hidden political powers that energy pulse waves, since this type of Jongleur100, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons energy can inhibit proper neuron func- tionality than normal. In fact, the be have been more deceptive than we brain’s entire white matter volume of can imagine, and with such under covHavana syndrome didn’t begin in Ha- tion through disrupting electrical and the victim group was discovered to be erage and sloppiness surrounding what vana, ironically enough. It was only re- chemical brain activity between certain neural pathways. However, it’s also im- 27.39 cm3 less than that of the control could turn out to be a near undetectacently discovered that the Pentagon ble, long-range, brain-altering weapon, had investigated a similar case that oc- portant to mention that ultrasonic en- group.

So, what does this mean? ergy can sometimes struggle to penecan we really say that Havana syndrome curred in 2014 in Frankfurt, Germany, trate the skull without the right intensiwon’t be revealed to be another MK but this was overlooked and left unreWhite matter is responsible for the ty.

Ultra? ported for a time. Since then, anomatransmission of information and conlous health incidents have been appearThe effects of Havana syndrome are nects different brain regions. This deWe citizens, don’t know. And by the ing left and right in Australia, China, debilitating and, oddly enough, mirror crease in white matter means that time we do, that piercing ring, whether Colombia, Georgia, India, Poland, Rus- the conditions found in people with whatever the cause of Havana synit be foreign or domestic, may already sia, and Vietnam. brain damage or concussions. A few drome is, it can directly affect your be coming from your window.

Two common patterns among these instances are that nearly all the victims are either government agents, active duty, former federal employees, or family members of these individuals, in-

4 | MARCH 2026

immediate side effects include a sudden onset of pain and pressure in the head, insomnia, brain fog, balance issues, and confusion, while the longer-lasting effects consist of symptoms like mi-

brain tissue and interrupt your brain’s ability to interpret information by damaging the communication pathways between your neurons.

EAGLE TALON

FEATURES escalated very quickly. At around 9 a.m., the 37-year-old was shot and killed. Security footage of the incident and eyewitness videos released show the I.C.E. “agents appearing to fire at least 10 shots in a span of five seconds,” as documented in a New York Times Article.

I.C.E.’s recent actions have sparked national outrage and local fear, raising questions about the agency’s tactics and the impact on communities across the country How I.C.E. Took Shape The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or I.C.E, is an agency that focuses on border security, immigration violations, and the removal of non-citizens. However, to many people who reside in the United States, their definition of I.C.E. is much different.

Many people describe them as officers who cause injustice and violently detain citizens, even when some are innocent.

escalated quickly, and many had questioned why such a young child was detained in the first place. This incident raised concerns nationwide about whether the I.C.E. agents on the scene had followed proper procedures and protocols and whether the level of force used during the incident was necessary. This situation would spread across social media and news outlets nationwide, becoming a major example cited by the public when discussing concerns about I.C.E.’s enforcement practices. Many people pointed to the case as evidence of broader issues in how the depart-

On March 1 of 2003, the “U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement”, better known as I.C.E., was formed as a part of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, which reorganized the federal government after the terrorist attacks of 9/11.

Their purpose was to stop illegal trade, smuggling, and trafficking, as well as to reinforce the immigration laws of the U.S. They were designed to handle both immigration enforcement issues and customs investigations under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). But unfortunately, this contrasts with the recent experiences of those in the communities affected by I.C.E.

usicegov, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

ment handles detentions.

Freezing Points: Two Lives Lost and a Disturbing Pattern

On January 7, 2026, 37-year-old mother and U.S. citizen Renee Good was shot and killed A Cold Front of Controversy during an I.C.E. operation while she was actRecently, I.C.E. has been getting a lot of new ing as a legal observer in her area. Local offiattention due to its recent controversial taccials later stated that Good had been monitortics and methods of detaining suspects. This ing the operation as part of a community legal attention has grown due to several recent observer until the situation escalated. The incidents involving I.C.E. detaining suspects, federal authorities on the scene described the where the public feels they used unnecessary shooting as “defensive”, but city and state violence and carried out arrests that were not leaders felt differently. They stated that they justified. were denied access to key evidence and, therefore, they were unable to conduct a full For example, one incident that has drawn significant public attention is the case involv- investigation. Good’s death sparked immediate protests across the city of Minneapolis, ing Liam Ramos, which raised questions about how I.C.E. agents conducted the arrest with many residents arguing that the use of and the level of force that was used, as well as lethal force was extremely unnecessary and the lack of a legitimate reason for detainment. avoidable. Sadly, this would not be the only Liam Ramos, a 5-year-old child, was detained life taken by I.C.E. that month.

by I.C.E. agents along with his father, Adrian Later that same month another I.C.E. operaAlexander Conejo Arias, who was also detion led to the death of a citizen. That event tained on January 20, 2026. According to rewas the fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alex ports, the agents stopped the vehicle carrying Jeffery Pretti. According to the reports, Pretti Ramos and his father during an enforcement was approached by I.C.E. agents early in the operation. Witnesses stated that the situation morning of January 24, and the encounter

MARCH 2026

mony. “We’re not savages, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens – we’re humans,” Bad Bunny said, a line that would quickly spread across social media. Their comments echoed a much larger cultural conversation about the agency’s tactics, enlarging the issue far beyond the Despite occurring weeks apart, the deaths of streets of Minneapolis and into the hearts and Renee Good & Alex Pretti share another simi- minds of everyone in the nation. larity. Both individuals were described as non But beyond the national spotlight, the inci-violent and were not reported to have posed dents have struck a much more personal any immediate threat to the I.C.E. officers chord for young people in the community. that warranted gunfire. In both cases, the For students like freshman Jeffrey Day, the federal officials labeled the shootings as acts incidents feel both unsettling and deeply of defense, while local leaders raised concerns personal. “Watching I.C.E. agents confront about the accuracy of those accounts and the residents in neighborhoods I grew up around lack of clarity surrounding what happened.

The use of excessive lethal force against people with no known violent history fueled the emotions of the public and intensified questions about how I.C.E. conducts its operations.

Community members have also pointed to reports that some I.C.E. agents had left Ace of Spades "death cards" in the homes or cars of those detained by I.C.E. These cards have a long and unsettling history. During the Viusicegov, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons etnam War, some U.S soldiers would take an Ace of Spades card and leave it on the body of makes this issue feel way too close to home,” dead Vietnamese soldiers as a form of psycho- Day said. He explained that the recent enlogical warfare, similar to a calling card to counters have made many teens in the area intimidate others. The cards reported in remore cautious about where they go and how cent I.C.E. operations follow the same format they move around the city, with I.C.E. agents but now include an I.C.E. logo and the adnow being active in Jacksonville. He added dress of a detention facility. The appearance that the growing tension has created an atof these cards has begun to raise concerns mosphere of fear that “nobody should have to about the message being implied and what it get used to,” a sentiment echoed by other suggests about the culture within certain teens who have watched these incidents. enforcement teams.

Sophomore N’kea Leonard-Somersall shared The Icy Lens a similar reaction, saying the recent incidents have made her question the fairness of I.C.E.’s In response to the recent incidents, I.C.E. officials have emphasized that their agents act approach. “Even though some people aren't from here originally, they should at least have within the federal guidelines and follow established procedures in every operation. The a few months to get their paperwork,” Leonard-Somersall said. ”Going door to door is agency has begun to push back against critiwho cism, stating that these situations can be un- unfair, and as someone The Gulf Ofisn’t from AmeriAmerica She added that the predictable and require officers to make rapid ca, I find it disrespectful.” decisions to protect their own safety as well as situation feels especially frightening because the public. “I.C.E. officers risk their lives every many of her friends are immigrants. “This is terrifying because I have a lot of friends who day to keep our communities safe. When aren’t fully American, which makes it both individuals choose to interfere, they are not scary and unfair. They can pull up to my helping anyone; they are endangering lives school and take anyone who’s an immigrant and undermining public safety,” an I.C.E. spokesperson said in a statement to DC News — including me and several of my friends.”

Now. I.C.E. added that they will continue to What Lies Beneath the Ice carry out their mission to enforce the federal As investigations continue and public presimmigration laws as they are ordered to. sure grows, the impact of these incidents is When the Stage Meets the Streets being felt far beyond the scenes of each confrontation. Families, students, workers, and The recent incidents have drawn massive national attention, including multiple speech- longtime residents all say the recent events es at this year's Grammy Awards. While going have changed the way they view safety in their own neighborhoods. For many, the deon stage to accept their awards, performers such as Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, Kehlani, Isra- bate over I.C.E.’s tactics is no longer a distant political issue, but a daily reality shaping how el Houghton, and SZA all address the recent entire communities move, speak, and live. controversy and actions I.C.E. has taken, as Whether change comes from federal policy or well as some wearing “I.C.E. OUT” pins. For public demand, people across Jacksonville say the audience, Bad Bunny’s speech had the they will be watching closely. largest impact of the night, delivering one of the most widely shared moments of the cere-

eagletalonpaper.com | 5

SPORTS incentives will push competitors to be to see four different cams on screen at more aggressive inside the octagon. once," said Senior Triston Rodgers.

This past weekend, the UFC held its The new deal has also changed how second event on Paramount+, Volk vs. fans consume the sport on a weekly Lopes 2, which left many fans question- basis. With all UFC content now cening the matchup. Some fans believed tralized on Paramount+, viewers no

By Damion Wilson Lopes should not have received a title longer need multiple subscriptions to The New era of the UFC is here. On shot since the two had already fought follow fight nights, major cards, and August 11, 2025, company TKO Group in April, and many expected the same exclusive content. Paramount executives reported that early data shows Holdings and Paramount announced a longer average watch times compared 7-year, $7.7 billion media rights deal, to events under ESPN, with fans staymaking Paramount+ the exclusive U.S. ing tuned in from the prelims through home for all UFC events beginning in the main event. The improved produc2026. The first event under the new tion, including alternate camera angles agreement, UFC 324: Gaethje vs. Pimband live fighter statistics, has helped lett, aired on Paramount+ on January attract younger viewers and more casu24, 2026, and was considered a massive al fans. success. The overall event averaged forty nine million viewers and drove Andrius Petrucenia, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons From the fighters’ perspective, the approximately one million new subupdated bonus structure is already scribers to the streaming platform. outcome. That prediction came true, as making an impact. Several undercard For the first time ever, UFC CEO Da- Alexander Volkanovski went on to win fighters have spoken about how the na White also announced new fighter in a dominant performance. The fight guaranteed $25,000 finish bonus gives bonuses that have already changed the further cemented Volkanovski’s legacy, them more motivation to push the landscape of the sport. Fighters who with many considering him one of the pace rather than fight safely for a decifinish their opponent by knockout or greatest featherweights to ever step sion. For fighters on lower contracts, one finish can double or even triple submission now receive a $25,000 bo- into the octagon. their pay for the night. As the UFC connus, which is huge for smaller fighters "I thought Volk fought a good fight who are on a considerably small con- and was very powerful and good in the tinues its first full year under the Paratract. Fight of the Night bonuses now octagon," stated Junior Chadrick Hicks. mount deal, fans and analysts are watching closely to see if higher bonusaward both fighters $100,000 each, "Paramount has been really good so es, bigger viewership numbers, and while Performance of the Night bonusfar, especially with the new multiimproved production truly mark the es can range from $50,000 to $100,000. camera angle feature making it possible beginning of a new era in UFC history.

Many fans and fighters believe these

reporter J.P. Shadrick, Coen became only the seventh coach in league history to win at least 13 games in his first year as a head coach.

NFL Coach of the Year is a prestigious award sought after by all coaches. Do the Jags bring it home this year?

confidence, and consistency all season.

Quarterback Trevor Lawrence delivered the best year of his career, breaking the franchise record for total Despite those results, national atten- touchdowns with 38, including 29 tion has shifted toward coaches in larg- passing and nine rushing. Lawrence er markets or teams with longer playoff also emerged as an MVP and Comeback Player of the Year candidate, a histories. This has caused Coen’s impact to be overlooked, even though the reflection of both his growth and the numbers show a clear case for Coach of system built around him.

Hutcher at English Wikipedia., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

®Paramount Global, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs Tourpia DAMION WILSON/ EAGLE TALON

win team into a 13-win division champion in one season is rare. Doing it while redefining a franchise makes it even more meaningful.

Whether or not voters acknowledge it, the Jaguars already have their answer. Liam Coen changed the direction of the team, and seasons like this are exactly why the award exists.

the Year. Shadrick argued that Coen’s The Jaguars did not rely on star powrun is historic, noting that no first-year er alone. They improved situational head coach has ever taken a team with football, limited mistakes, and closed The Jacksonville Jaguars closed the regular season with a statement. A 41–7 four or fewer wins and turned it into a games with authority. Those changes point directly to coaching. Preparation, win over the Tennessee Titans sealed a 12-plus win team before. in-game adjustments, and player deWhat makes Coen’s season even 13–4 record, an AFC South title, and one of the most dramatic turnarounds more compelling as a Coach of the Year velopment were evident throughout the season, especially during key in recent NFL history. That turnaround candidate isn’t just the wins. It’s how the Jaguars achieved them. In his first divisional matchups. isn’t just impressive. It’s rare in NFL

By Logan Kelly & Sariyah Douglas

year as head coach, Coen reshaped the Shadrick added that if Coen is team’s identity, using an approach passed over for the award, it will only grounded in culture, resiliency, and strengthen the team’s mindset. Jackaccountability. Jaguars chief football sonville has embraced its role as a strategy officer Tony Khan said the big- smaller market franchise playing with Coen inherited a team that finished gest impact Coen had was transform- something to prove. Each moment of ing the Jaguars’ culture from one national doubt has fueled a deeper 4–13 the season before his arrival. In weighed down by past struggles to one focus on postseason goals, where one year, Jacksonville became a playoff focused on winning and sustained recognition matters far less than reteam, a division champion, and a legitgrowth. sults. imate contender in the playoffs. That Beyond wins and losses, Coen reCoach of the Year is meant to honor type of turnaround rarely happens in shaped the identity of the franchise. impact, change, and results. Liam Cothe NFL, especially in a coach’s first Jacksonville played with discipline, en delivered all three. Turning a fourseason. According to Jaguars senior history. Yet despite this success, head coach Liam Coen has yet to receive widespread recognition, leaving the Jaguars head coach on the outside looking in.

LIAM COEN ACTION FIGURE. CREATED BY STAFF VIA OPENAI

6 | MARCH 2026

EAGLE TALON

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT nated this year because they have more popular names than others.

artist Bad Bunny won Album of the Year for his album “DeBÍ TiRAR MáS FOToS”, the first time in “Some aren’t relevant to being memorable, and history that a Spanish-language album won the don’t pay attention to the quality of work,” Crock- coveted award. Not only did he win big at the awards show, but rapper Kendrick Lamar also er said. won a total of 5 Grammy awards, putting him at a During this year's live stream of the Grammys, a total of 27 career wins. This makes him the most variety of artists were lined up for performances, Grammy-winning rapper in history, surpassing a from girl group KATSEYE to more well-known record previously held by Jay-Z. artists like Tyler, the Creator. A lot of the performances had an impact on the crowd and audiences, especially Tyler’s. It was something new that people hadn’t seen, leaving people intrigued and interested in seeing more from Tyler.

The Grammys reach full potential to appreciate the artists who made the music happen.

Leonora Joseph and Marcus Wallace The Grammy Awards have been one of the most popular award shows in history. Every year since May 4, 1959, they feature newer artists, popular songs, and award the most critically acclaimed artists and albums. With music being a very influential part of society as of late, many people tune in from home to watch their favorite artists receive the award.

“Tyler, the Creator closed the show with a literal bang: he mimicked a dynamite explosion and flung himself to the Grammys floor, panting and covered in smoke after giving his latest Grammys performance his all,” assistant editor Maya Georgi said in an article for Rolling Stone.

Many artists have risen to fame through the process of awards shows, especially when it comes to the Grammys. They give old and new artists more exposure and recognition. Many different demographics of fans who hear about or watch the awards love seeing the artists they know.

Guns N’ Roses paid tribute to late English singer/ songwriter Ozzy Osbourne.

“After it ended, Kelly was seen wiping away tears as the family soaked in the scene,” senior writer Chris Gardener stated in an article for the Hollywood Reporter. “Shaboozey left his seat to quickly dart over to Kelly and offer condolences and a hug.”

Comecoquito, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Crocker also agreed that Kendrick did a good job and was deserving of an award.

“Out of the list of people, he stood out the most,” Crocker said. “He’s very impactful, and his album was a hit.”

A lot of these artists leave an influence on the audience, especially when mentioning their fans by honoring them for their support. The artists always pour out their hearts, thanking their fans for sticking with them for the ride, and improvement will always be recognized by their supporters. Although it can take a mental toll, many artists do it from the bottom of their hearts for their fans.

Along with the awards, the Recording Academy also paid tribute to artists who have passed away.

Lauryn Hill led a group of star-studded artists honoring the late Roberta Flack and D’Angelo.

Reba McEntire also performed at the Grammys for the first time, honoring other late artists and music producers. And Post Malone and Slash of

After winning a Grammy for her song “Messy”, Lola Young agreed that it’s a lot to handle and how it feels in the real world. “I’m very proud of this song,” Young said. “I feel it speaks on just like being a messy human being and not being enough, you know, for the world. And that’s how a lot of us feel all the time.”

“I wanted these artists to win because I listen to their music genres the most, especially Kendrick’s,” Gaboyau said.

Although the awards feature a lot of artists they love, many people also wish they saw the artists at the award show that they admire but aren’t as popular in the music industry.

“It’s nothing crazy,” sophomore Haendel Gaboyau said. “I just wish there were more artists that I listen to on the nominations list, like NBA Youngboy and Plaqueboymax.”

Other people, such as psychology teacher Hadiya Crocker, think that some artists are just nomi-

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With the impactful performances, important awards were also given out on Sunday, February 1, at this year’s Grammys. Artists such as Kendrick Lamar, SZA, Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, and more won notable awards. For instance, Puerto Rican

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music, amazing performances, and a chance for fans to connect with their favorite stars in person. Tickets are expected to sell quickly, so fans are encouraged to purchase them early to avoid missing out.

Amira Johnson & Tanisha Shillingford

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MARCH 2026

This year, some of the biggest names in the music industry are coming to perform live concerts, and fans couldn’t be more excited. Popular artists like BTS, Bruno Mars, and Conan Gray will be touring through Florida, bringing their incredible talent and unforgettable shows to the Sunshine State.

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cannot wait to see Bruno,” Baker said. “I am going with my mom, and I love all his songs.”

For students and music enthusiasts, these concerts offer more than just entertainment; they are a chance to experience live music culture and witness some of the best performers in the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, these shows are sure to create lasting memories.

If you're getting ready to snag tickets for your favorite concerts, you might Conan Gray is a singer-songwriter want to do it before it's too late. So, get known for his emotional and relatable ready, Florida! The stage is set for an music. He first gained popularity by re- unforgettable musical journey with BTS, BTS, the global K-pop sensation, has leasing hits like “Heather” and “Maniac.” Bruno Mars, and Conan Gray coming captured the hearts of millions with their powerful performances, meaning- His style blends indie pop with heartfelt your way soon. ful lyrics, and impressive choreography. lyrics. Gray’s music often explores Their concerts are known for being high themes of love, identity, and growing up, making him a voice for many teens -energy and full of surprises, making and young adults today. Junior Rylie them a must-see for fans of all ages.

Lynch is excited to go to the Conan Gray Bruno Mars, a multi-talented singer, concert. “Conan Gray is one of my favorsongwriter, and performer, is famous for ite artists,” Lynch said. “I am going with his soulful voice, catchy tunes, and dymy friend Julia Stein and my mom.” namic stage presence. His shows often include a mix of funk, pop, and R&B that These artists are set to perform in several cities in Florida. The concerts promgets everyone dancing. Senior Brooke ise to be exciting events filled with great Baker is excited to see Bruno Mars. “I Samsung Saudi Arabia, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia

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SENIOR SAIGE HIGGINS NAMED NATIONAL MERIT FINALIST

GIRLS WEIGHTLIFTING WINS DISTRICT CHAMPIONSHIP IN BOTH OLYMPIC AND TRADITIONAL CATEGORIES

SENIOR CHRISTIAN RICKS NAMED 1010XL SCHOLARATHLETE OF THE WEEK

JUNIOR SARIYAH JACKSON REPRESENTS PAXON AT THE GIRLS WEIGHTLIFTING STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

JUNIOR JEANIA JOSEPH NAMED MISS PAXON 2026

JUNIOR JAMESON GRANT LED A HOMECOMING SOCK & SHOE DRIVE THROUGH THE CHILDREN’S HOME SOCIETY

EAGLE TALON