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The Falconer

The Falconer

The Falconer

Joy Ma

Joy Ma, Asst. Editor-in-Chief, Long-form

Did you know that frogs were the first land animals with vocal cords? TPHS’ biggest frog fanatic, Joy Ma, embodies the calm, adaptive and curious nature of her favorite amphibians as she steps into her role as Assistant Editor-in-Chief for her third year on the Falconer. Born and raised in Hong Kong and fluent in three languages, Ma brings a global perspective and a unique voice to the team. Chiefly the epitome of wanderlust, Ma has traveled to over 12 countries, her favorite travel spot being Toledo, Spain, where she was captivated by the intricate damasquinados. For her senior year at TPHS, Ma is eager to elevate the paper’s storytelling and continue to foster a dynamic, inclusive newsroom environment. Outside the newsroom, Ma is an avid reader with a particular fondness for Mary Oliver, Ocean Vuong and Fyodor Dostoevsky (The Brothers Karamazov is the greatest book of all time — do not even attempt to fight her on this). When she’s not buried nose-deep in a book or working on the newspaper, you’ll likely find her spending humorously large amounts of hours on Pinterest searching for future home inspiration or unique outfit combinations. Looking to the future, Ma is excited to continue her journey of growth and exploration and cannot wait to make lifelong memories with her favorite “Falconerds.”

All content by Joy Ma
President-elect Donald Trump is currently appointing members for his presidential Cabinet. Since the start of the presidential system, Cabinet positions were appointed by the president and later awaited approval by the Senate.

Donald Trump’s presidential Cabinet

Joy Ma, Assistant-Editor-in-Chief, Long-form November 22, 2024

Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 presidential election paved the way for a significant restructuring of federal leadership as his administration begins the process of filling over 4,000 political appointee...

Enjoying food is honoring tastes, tales and traditions. Our society, focused on dieting and calorie-intake has diminished food's cultural value.

More than a meal

Joy Ma, Assistant-Editor-in-Chief, Long-form November 21, 2024

In an era characterized  by calorie-tracking apps, protein shakes and painstakingly scheduled meal plans, food is often reduced to little more than a mathematical equation. This viewpoint is most ingrained...

In Stephanie Pearson's Personal Financial Literacy class, students acquire financial knowledge for practical applications. California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2927 into law in June.

Personal finance course graduation requirement

Joy Ma, Assistant-Editor-in-Chief, Long-form November 18, 2024

California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed Assembly Bill 2927 into law in June, making it the 26th state to require a personal finance course for high school graduation, starting with the 2030-31 graduating...

Americans operate in confusion from daylight savings time as they commute to school and work and perform their duties for the day. Since its creation, DST has caused a range of issues for all.

[Photo] Daylight savings time: Blessing or curse

April Kato, News Editor November 4, 2024

Americans operate in confusion from daylight savings time as they commute to school and work and perform their duties for the day. Since its creation, DST has caused a range of issues for all.

PALs' Outreach Committee is the organizer of the water bottle drive. The drive is held until Oct. 29 and students can drop off items for donation in room nine to the Los Angeles homeless community. Left to Right: Aubrie Dingman (10), Sara Messenger (10), Faith Schaffer (12), Shyla Mighdoll (12), Gianna Henderson (10) and Ryann Holohan (10). Photo courtesy of Shyla Mighdoll.

PALs water bottle drive

Joy Ma, Assistant-Editor-in-Chief, Long-form October 14, 2024

The school’s Peer Assistance Leaders are organizing a water bottle drive to help the homeless community in Los Angeles, Calif. as a way to give back to the community. Held from Sept. 30 to Oct. 29 in...

In recent years, the effects of climate change have become increasingly apparent with changing weather, increased natural disasters and the loss of species. Ecocide arose as a critical ethical and legal issue.

Ecocide: Criminalizing environmental damage

Joy Ma, Assistant-Editor-in-Chief, Long-form October 10, 2024

As the world grapples with the surging climate crisis, the concept of ecocide — the “unlawful” acts committed “with knowledge that there is a substantial likelihood of severe and either widespread...

Staff writer Cass Love argues it is  time for administrators to create change in the lives and well-being of high school students. How could this happen?

[Photo] Press snooze – permanently

Cass Love, Staff Writer September 9, 2024

Staff writer Cass Love argues it is time for administrators to create change in the lives and well-being of high school students. How could this happen?

A teen male dresses in stereotypical 'male manipulator' fashion. Those around him wondered about his next scheme. Art courtesy of Elyse Kim

Loving The Smiths does not make you a ‘male manipulator’

Joy Ma, Assistant Editor-in-Chief, Longform September 6, 2024

Imagine: You are at a dimly lit house show, the air dense with the aroma of incense and the low hum of an old amplifier. A silhouette appears out of the darkness, wearing a graphic tee and baggy jeans,...

With elections coming up this November, the Falconer summarizes key issues for each candidate.

Infographic: Presidential election comparison

Joy Ma, Assistant Editor-in-Chief, Longform August 28, 2024
With elections coming up this November, the Falconer summarizes key issues for each candidate.
Joy Ma leans on her trusty frog companion, Ricky. He has been by her side throughout her high school journey.

Personal Perspective: Joy Ma

Joy Ma, Assistant-Editor-in-Chief, Long-form August 27, 2024

Growing up, I have always thought of myself as less human and more frog. I’ve always felt a deep connection to them — creatures that, in many ways, embody the qualities I admire and strive to cultivate...

This year, the school implements a new cell phone policy. What would this policy contribute to the classroom and student well-being? Art courtesy of Elyse Kim (12).

Pro/Con: TPHS cellphone ban

Joy Ma and Gabrielle Gonzales August 21, 2024

Pro - by Gabrielle Gonzales TPHS announced an updated Student Cell Phone Policy for the 2024-25 school year, preventing cellphone usage during instructional time in an effort to “support the academic...

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