Issue No. 15 | Spring 2024
Staff :
Editors-in-Chief
DAKOTA SCHICK & PRAVEENA JACKSON
Managing Editor
PETER MONDEN
Copy Chief
WILLIAM LITTLE
Sports Editor
DAKOTA SCHICK
Arts & Culture Editor
JOSUE LEIJA
News Editor
NATHAN LOWMAN
Adviser
DARCY DELANEY-NELSON
Reporters
AMAR ARAIN
AMELIA BEATY
YLLEANA BERRYHILL
JACOBEY BROSSIE
MARIAMA DIALLO
HUGO GUTIERREZ
MALIYAH JAMES
MOLLY MONTGOMERY
QUOC NGUYEN
SEAN PENN*
DEANDREA SAMUEL
BAILEE WHORTON
Cartoonists
PETER MONDEN
SHANNON LITTLE
Graphic Design & Page Design Editor
MICHELLE JOHNSON
*writes under a pseudonym
Top Left to Right; Kelcie Petty, Shannon Little, William Little, Dakota Schick, Peter Monden. Bottom Left to Right; Praveena Jackson, Molly Mongomery, Amelia Beaty, Michelle Johnson, Ylleana Berryhill, Mariama Diallo.
:
Letters from the Editors
Praveena Jackson
It was my first week in America. I was a very timid and introverted person, hiding behind my father when I first came to Rose State for a quick tour before the semester started. That day changed my life for the better and for that, I need to thank two people: my Lord, Jesus and Professor Darcy. She took a big risk by giving me an opportunity, and for that, I will be forever grateful to her. I hope to make her proud. As an international student, I was afraid of how I would fit in with the rest of my co-workers, but little did I know at that time, that I had nothing to worry about because everyone treated me equally. I have enjoyed working with them for two semesters now. I disliked reading and writing as a child, but now, since I’ve been creating quite a number of stories, I know that hard work and determination will eventually pay off. It truly never felt like a job, even though it got overwhelming sometimes, because I love what I do now.
Two years may seem short, but the people you meet and connections you make last a lifetime. Rose State Media Group gave me a great opportunity to write stories and show people’s lives throughout Rose. They challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and expand into a variety of topics I have never covered before. I met a variety of new people from all different backgrounds. After a year of writing, editing and starting over from scratch, I worked my way to the top. The 15th Street News and The 6420 have been a huge stepping stone into my mass communications journey. Always remember to do what you enjoy and be okay with getting out of your comfort zone.
Dakota Schick
Provided by Rose State
Higher Education Financial Help
By Dakota Schick
School bills can add up quickly, and for some, assistance in paying for school is a huge relief for them or their families. Housing, tuition and other fees all play a major role in the economics of college and universities across the country.
Larger schools like the University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University are intimidating to some people and can be very intimidating to one’s wallet. A graph found on the Rose State College official website shows that in the 202122 school year these schools cost roughly $9,200 to $9,300 in tuition alone. In 2022, tuition at Rose State cost $4,775.10. This finished in the top three least expensive in the state. Schools Oklahoma State UniversityOklahoma City and Oklahoma City Community College were the only two schools cheaper than Rose.
Since students can struggle to afford a higher education, Rose State College and the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education offer many different scholarship and financial aid opportunities.
The biggest scholarship opportunity provided by Rose State is Ticket to Rose. Funded by Rose State and local citizens, this scholarship is intended for students of Carl Albert, Choctaw, Del City, Midwest City and Star Spencer school districts. Not only are the school district students applicable for Ticket to Rose but home school students are as well.
Starting at a small school like Rose State and other junior colleges can be a stepping stone into the higher education world that does not break the bank.
According to the Rose State website, “Ticket to Rose is also available to private, alternative, virtual and home school graduates whose primary family residence is located within the officially defined borders of the aforementioned school districts.”
Through Ticket to Rose, Rose State gives back to its community by using its receiving students to work in community services and attend community events. Ticket to Rose is used as an all-around community assistance whether its funding for education or community service.
Scholarships are one of the biggest ways students get assistance financially not only at Rose but at schools across the country. Athletic, leadership, military dependent, division specific and college funded scholarships are all available for application by students everywhere. Rose State donors are supporting more than 400 of these scholarships that are offered.
The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education offers the Oklahoma Promise This is a scholarship available for qualified students in Oklahoma. Their goal is to help send Oklahoma kids through college.
According to the Board of Regents website, “Oklahoma’s Promise allows students who meet certain income, academic and conduct requirements to earn a college or technology center tuition scholarship.”
Paying for college does not have to be scary. It may seem like a lot of front but with the help of colleges, scholarships and the Board of Regents assistance in paying for higher education is available for students and their families across Oklahoma.
Class of 2 o 2 4
Let’s take a moment to celebrate the achievements of our graduating class from Rose State. We want to show some appreciation to two outstanding students who are about to embark on their next journey after their time at Rose. They graciously shared their personal experiences and offered invaluable advice for incoming freshmen.
Sariya Danley
Sariya Danley will graduate in Spring 2024 with a major in Fine Arts. Her aspirations lead her to the University of Central Oklahoma, where she plans to continue her academic journey and delve deeper into her passion for the arts.
Experience at Rose State College:
“Junior year, that’s when COVID happened for me, and we did online schooling. It was not good. Online school is just not for me. I feel like Rose State gave me a second chance. I felt like I wanted to go somewhere comfortable and intimate. I wanted to have a nice relationship with my professors. Suzanne Thomas she’s my favorite she’s the most supportive person to me here and Chris Shaneyfelt.”
Advice for incoming freshmen:
Be more open and take advantage of the time that you have left at Rose “I feel like it was just yesterday that I applied here. Then the first day of school came, I was nervous but then I slowly created a little nest here, and now I am leaving for a completely different school. Be sure to take advantage of your time here and, try to be more open, Get to know your professors well and make new friends.”
Ashlyn Sears
Ashlyn Sears is set to graduate in Spring 2024 with a major in Music Theatre. Her sights are set on attending Lipscomb University for her future studies, where she aims to further sharpen her skills and pursue her passion for performing arts.
Experience at Rose State College:
“My love for music theatre began at high school, but Rose has been really great. I didn’t have a great time at high school, so I didn’t expect to like college, which is why I came to Rose instead of going to a four-year. Then, I came to Rose and immediately felt the difference in the people. They don’t judge, and they’re so welcoming and eventually, I made many friends. Later on, I stopped being known as the shy girl because I would talk more.”
Advice for incoming freshmen:
Hard Work
“Work really hard. It’s going to be hard at first, but just work hard and get to know your professors. It will pay off in the long run. Other than that, start acknowledging people, like in the hallway, smile at people you know and wave. That’s how I started making friends, just smiling and waving, the small things.”
Rachel Wyatt
Rachel Wyatt is scheduled to graduate in Spring 2024 with a major in Spanish. Her academic journey will continue at Wichita State University, where she aims to obtain a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish, furthering her proficiency and understanding of the language and culture.
Experience at Rose State College:
“My time at Rose has been pretty good. I’m in a couple of clubs and I enjoy my classes. Plus I’ve made good grades. My goals and dreams are to complete as much school as possible and eventually work as a medical translator.”
Advice for incoming freshmen:
“My advice to future freshmen is to get to know your professors. Office hours should be a part of your calendar, and scheduling time to meet with your professors will really help your grade.”
Story and Photos By Ylleana Berryhill
I often find myself questioning what there is to do in a state like Oklahoma. I feel like there is not much to do or many places to see. But, over time, I realized there are quite a few things to do that go beyond traveling to the nearest shopping center or going to the movies.
Paint Date: Pick up some canvases and paint from the local craft store and paint anything you want. You can even turn this into a picnic amongst friends. My friend and I went to Scissortail Park and it was a lot of fun. This isn’t limited to canvases either, this works with totes and various clothing items.
Go to the zoo: Adult tickets cost $16 and children cost $13. There are various add-ons you can purchase to make your experience more enjoyable. One year, I went with my friend and my brother, and for $4 we fed explorikeets. The birds playfully flocked around us and sat in my hair, waiting to be fed. There are many other add-ons such as visiting Stingray Bay, riding a safari cart tour and visiting their barnyard filled with goats and sheep. Visit www.okczoo.org/ for more information.
There’s always Frontier City. With the variety of rides and places to eat, you’ll almost never get bored. These rides aren’t just limited to roller coasters, there are water rides as well. Ticket prices start at $45 each, however, for $95 each you can buy a Platinum Pass with added benefits such as unlimited access, discounts to food and merchandise and a line skip pass. Adults and older children are not the only ones capable of having fun, there are many rides available for the younger kids as well.
Hang out at your local coffee shop: My favorite cafes are The Underground, Perets Dessert and Coffee Bar. Coffee shops are a great space to get some work done or chat with friends. They are also a really great place to get some friends together and play a fun board game. If you’re into Dungeons and Dragons, places like these are also great for hosting campaigns. Even if you do not have a big enough friend group to do any of these, picking up a good book and reading at one of these cafes is a good idea.
Discover new foods with food trucks. At Guthrie Green 111 Reconciliation Way Tulsa from April 3 to June 26, food trucks at Guthrie Green meet every Wednesday for people to try delicious food from a variety of trucks. There will also be music and games with the food trucks. Visit www.travelok.com for more information.
The Paycom Center hosts a variety of events like basketball games and concerts. You can catch AJR, Zach Bryan, NF, Janet Jackson, Peso Pluma, Olivia Rodrigo, Luke Bryan and Hozier. This year seems to be a very big year for musical performances. Lots of artists tend to skip right over Oklahoma and visit Texas. This happily does not seem like the case. Visit www.paycomcenter. com/events for more information.
The Civic Center will host a variety of popular plays and musicals on tour or performed by Lyric Theatre. Mama Mia, Mary Poppins, Cinderella, Lizzie Borden and MJ
The Musical will be showing at the Civic Center at various times throughout the year. This is especially great for those who enjoy theater beyond attending the movies. It also reduces the cost due to these performances being shown in the area, whereas individuals would have to travel to another state to watch these performances. Ticket prices will vary.
The Myriad Gardens have several events going on throughout the summer. Some examples are free yoga classes, free Zumba classes, workshops, festivals and other events. Some events require registration beforehand and cost varies for each event. On May 11, there is the Oklahoma City Garden Festival that will feature a number of vendors selling plants, jewelry and art. Visit https://myriadgardens.org/calendar/ for more information.
Visit a museum. Factory Obscura: Mix Tape, located at 25 9th St., displays immersive art for individuals to enjoy while giving a platform for artists around the area. The building is not just reserved for art. A number of artists perform here as well. Yoga sessions are also hosted here. A variety of events are held here and ticket prices vary on each event. Visit https://tickets. factoryobscura.com/events for more information.
Waiters of a different world
By Quoc Nguyen
Since moving to Japan at the beginning of the year, I have been constantly amazed by the differences between this Japan and the United States. However, one culture shock that I have difficulty getting used to is the difference between how waiters serve their customers in Japan compared to the United States.
In the United States, the waiters act warm and friendly toward their customers. Each waiter is in charge of a few tables. This allows waiters to build a relationship with their customers. It is common for waiters to greet their customers and have small talk with them. Throughout the customer’s time at the restaurant, the waiters will check on their customers to see if they need another refill on drinks or if there is anything else the waiter can do to improve the customer’s experience.
“We’re just so used to tipping after eating at a restaurant,” said George, an American Expat living in Japan, “It still feels weird when the waiter gives us their all, and we don’t reward their efforts for it.”
At the end of the customer’s time at the restaurant, the customer is expected to tip the waiter for their service as a sign of appreciation. A standard tip can be anywhere from 15 to 20 percent. Though people from outside the United States may find it annoying how often the waiters come to check on the customer instead of leaving the customer alone, it is a sign of hospitality.
In Japan, the waiters act formal and professional toward their customers. They may do great in their services when called upon, but they do not go out of their way to interact with the customers. When a customer walks into a restaurant, they are seated by a staff member and given a drink, normally water or tea. The waiters do not interact with the customers unless the customer needs their service.
“It is more efficient that way,” said Abe a Japanese local, “It does not overload the waiters, and they are able to get more done compared to constantly checking on the customer’s well-being.”
When a customer needs to order, they can get the waiter’s attention by either calling them or pressing a button that notifies them. Once the order is placed and the food is served, that may be the last time the customer sees the waiter until it is time to pay. It is not common to tip waiters in Japan and can be seen as rude.
Photo from Unsplash
The Benefits of Tea
By Mari Diallo
For centuries, tea has been used as a healing supplement. Now, it’s used all around the world as a way to unify people. Though it still has its original use as medicine, those who are sick or have sore throats drink tea to help with those symptoms. Aside from that, tea comes in many different forms and each has its benefits.
White tea is not as common as other teas but still has many beneficial effects. This tea comes from a Camellia sinensis plant that is grown in parts of China and India. This tea is known for its high levels of antioxidants and its effectiveness in fighting various forms of cancer. It also contains high amounts of fluoride, which also is good for your teeth.
Herbal teas are one of the most common and popular types of teas due to their blends of spices, fruits and herbs. These teas do not contain any caffeine which makes it perfect for those who want a refreshing hot drink with no caffeine. Different types of herbal teas have different benefits, such as chamomile tea helps improve sleep and relaxation. Ginger tea helps fight morning sickness, relieves joint pain, and treats chronic indigestion. Rooibos tea helps with blood circulation, boosts good cholesterol and lowers bad cholesterol, as well as keeps your hair and skin healthy.
Green tea comes from China and the leaves of the tea are either pan-fried or roasted to make it. It helps with heart health and lowering cholesterol. It also is an anti-inflammatory that keeps skin glowy and clear. Matcha is also a form of green tea and contains even more antioxidants than regular green tea.
Black tea is the same as green tea, the only difference is that it is dried and fermented, which is why it has a richer and darker flavor. Black tea is also caffeinated but it supports healthy immune function. Aside from internal benefits, it can also be put on minor cuts and bruises to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
There are many more different teas and so many more benefits that could be talked about but these are just a few basics. For more information visit, https://www.pennmedicine.org.
Photo By Mari Diallo
Photo By Mari Diallo
Egg Drop Soup
By Michelle Johnson
I would like to thank my cousin for helping me make my recipe better.
This is the perfect soup to add anything you want to it. This soup might not be for everyone due to its unusual texture. However, this simple recipe will help you create a tasty base that you can add to based on your preferences.
Ingredients;
-4 cups chicken broth (or a soup base of your choice)
-4 eggs
-Garlic or garlic powder
-Pepper -Salt -Ginger -Sesame oil
Since it’s a simple soup, here are a few things I like to add to mine: soy sauce, dried seaweed, chicken, dumplings, tofu, and fried wonton strips if I want some crunch. Veggies are an option too if you want to be healthier than me. Enjoy your soup!
Directions;
-First, bring your broth to a boil.
-Beat the eggs in a separate bowl.
-In the broth add the salt, pepper, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to your liking.
-Once the broth starts to boil, turn off the stove and slowly pour In the beaten eggs to get the egg ribbons.
-The soup is ready to serve.
by Michelle Johnson
Photo
A Classic Malaysian Dessert Sago Pudding
By Praveena Jackson
One of the greatest sweets from Malaysia is Sago Gula Melaka, also referred to as Sago Pudding. Malaysians enjoy the chewy pearl sago’s texture, which is enhanced by the infusion of aromatic coconut milk and sweet gula melaka (palm sugar).
Ingredients for Palm Sugar Syrup;
-200 g palm sugar (gula melaka), chopped
-1/2 cup (125 ml/4.5 oz) water
-3 screwpine leaves (knotted)
Ingredients for Flavored Coconut Milk;
-1 cup (250 ml / 8.5 oz) coconut milk
-3 screwpine leaves (knotted)
-1/4 tsp salt, or to taste
Tools;
-Pot + stove
-Whisk
-Dessert bowl/ Muffin mold
Ingredients for Sago
-1 1/2 cup (200 g / 7 oz) pearl sago
-6 cups (1.5 L / 50 oz) water
Directions
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
COOK SAGO: In a pot, add sago and water. Turn on medium heat.
STIR SAGO: With a whisk, keep stirring so that the sago does not clump. Cook until sago becomes translucent, about 15 minutes.
STRAIN: Pour sago into a strainer and wash off excess starch in running cold water.
POUR INTO BOWLS: Pour into individual small dessert bowls – to avoid having to transfer it to a serving bowl. Then, put it into the fridge to set.
FLAVOUR COCONUT MILK: In a saucepan, pour in coconut milk, screwpine leaves and salt. Boil on low fire until it bubbles. Stir constantly. Set aside to cool.
MAKE SYRUP: In another pot, melt palm sugar and three tablespoons of water on low fire, for about 5 minutes.
SERVE: Serve pudding with drizzles of palm sugar syrup and flavored coconut milk.
Photo from Adobe Stock
Applying Fun Eyeshadow
By Amelia Beaty
One of the ways I learned to express myself was through makeup. During my freshman year of high school, I learned how to apply bright and colorful eyeshadow to take some control of my appearance. My other makeup skills are lacking, but after practicing with bold eyeshadow nearly every day of my sophomore and junior years I’ve become comfortable with applying eyeshadow. These are some of the most important tips I wish I would have known for applying eyeshadow.
Use Primer
When helping someone else apply eyeshadow, primer is one of the most important things missed during their routine. Primer is great for makeup application, but I’ve found success in simply using liquid foundation and my own results turn out the same. Primer helps the pigment stick to your skin and makes your colors brighter and bolder, as well as giving you a smoother application.
Plan out shadows and highlights
I use an average of three different colors for each eyeshadow look and plan out my color placement before starting my makeup application. I start with my lighter colors near the innermost part of the eyelid and the brow bone. If I’m doing a fuller look I use darker colors on the outer edges of my eye. Sometimes I invert this pattern and come out with some very fun results, especially when using a yellow palette. References are especially helpful when planning new eyeshadow looks.
Stay consistent
When using brushes to apply powder, try to stay consistent with your application technique. I was taught to use circular movements to apply the powder which assists with blending, but later found that lightly dabbing it on in various levels of force worked better for me. Whatever your application technique, stay consistent so you can improve your muscle memory and precision later on down the road. Additionally, if you’re using eyeliner, sticking to a style for a few applications will help with your skill in that particular design. After trial and error, I learned a technique for winged eyeliner that has served me well, but I only learned it after I kept consistency with my eyeliner and found easier and more reliable ways to apply it.
Utilize your brushes
The smaller the brush, the more fine details you can apply. I’ve found success in using fluffier brushes for larger areas of light colors and smaller denser brushes for areas of shadows and darker colors. Always remember to clean your brushes between color applications. Not only is this more sanitary on your brush, but it will also keep your pallets clean.
Have fun!
Makeup doesn’t have to be stressful. It is meant to help you feel more confident in your skin. If you finish putting on makeup and feel less confident with yourself than before, it’s better to simply start over or try a different look. Don’t feel comfortable using bold colors? Don’t! Wear what makes you feel the most comfortable and the beauty will follow.
WINTER JAM TOUR SPECTACULAR
By Bailee Whorton
Winter Jam is an annual Christian event that unites a portion of the top Christian artists for an evening of praise and celebration. It’s something beyond just a concert, it’s an encounter where believers meet to lift their voices and worship together. This event offers a special chance to connect with followers of Christ, grow in their faith and find support through inspiring music and messages. Winter Jam serves as a reviving break from the tensions of academic life by permitting students to re-energize religiously and center themselves on their relationship with Christ.
On March 16, the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City became a haven for understudies looking for comfort from the afflictions of academic life as Winter Jam unfolded its embroidery of faith, music and fellowship. For both Christians and non-believers attending college, this occasion provided the chance to connect with Christ, sustain their profound development and find comfort in elevating music and messages.
In the whirlwind of college life, understudies frequently end up exploring through a maze of deadlines, exams and social burdens. Winter Jam arises as a break, offering a safe-haven where people can stop, reflect and restore their profound prosperity in the midst of the disorder of the scholarly community.
“For me, Winter Jam is like hitting the pause button on the chaos of college life,” said Libby Penwell, Oklahoma State University freshman, “It’s an opportunity to step back, breathe, and refocus on what truly matters in my relationship with Christ.”
This occasion, known for its different setup of Christian craftsmen and speakers, fills in as an impetus for profound restoration. From contemporary Christian groups to prepared loving pioneers, every presentation resounds profoundly with the crowd mixing hearts and manifesting a feeling of heavenly association.
Notwithstanding the music, Winter Jam includes a variety of speakers who convey messages of trust, consolation and strengthening. These speakers draw from individual encounters and battles. They also offer bits of knowledge that resound with understudies from various backgrounds. Winter Jam cultivates a feeling of locality among participants, creating a space where people can produce significant associations and find support in their process.
“Going to Winter Jam has associated me with a community of believers who have become like family to me,” said Olivia Porras, Oklahoma City Community College freshman, “It’s encouraging to realize that I’m not alone in my battles and that there are individuals who are willing to walk alongside me on this journey.”
As Winter Jam ends, participants leave with hearts full and spirits elevated, conveying with them the reverberations of motivating songs and empowering messages. The occasion leaves a mark of encouragement on students, and helps understudies recharge before going back to wrestling with the adversities of school life.
Winter Jam rises above strict marks and denominational partitions, filling in as a profound desert spring for all understudies looking for shelter from the tempests of life. Winter Jam gave participants the open door to recharge in a genuine way and extend their association with Christ, no matter their strict foundation. It is a demonstration of the force of music, local area, confidence to move, elevate and join hearts in a common excursion toward otherworldly restoration and development.
The BACHELOR
By Molly Montgomery
“The Bachelor” has been a popular reality show since 2002. With 28 seasons, 28 different Bachelors and 708 female contestants, this show has completely entangled its viewers into the lives of those on the show.
With the latest season coming to an end, many are curious as to who the current Bachelor, Joey Graziadei, will choose.
Joey had his hands full this season, hosting the most women in program history. He started with 32 women on night one, narrowing it down to the final two before the finale on March 25.
This season of “The Bachelor” has been extremely dramatic. Who would expect all sunshine and rainbows when 30 women are vying for the same man?
The long-awaited “Women Tell All” aired March 18. This episode brought back 16 women Joey had sent home throughout his season, seeing each other for the first time since their breakups. This episode was packed with all the juicy drama viewers had been dying to see hashed out. Finding out who actually told Lea to “Shut the f**k up,” Autumn asking Joey
to set her up with a friend, Maria and Sydney (need I say more) and watching who Joey sent home after fantasy suites. This season’s “Women Tell All” was a must watch, especially with the dramatic ending of Joey leaving before the preview for the finale played.
Rose State’s Director of Student Engagement, Paige Stramski, said her favorite drama was between Sydney and Maria.
“Sydney was desperate for drama, creating things that never happened. It was comically terrible,” she said.
“The Bachelor” claimed since the start of season 28 that the ending of Joey’s love story is something that has never happened in the show’s history. This claim has kept viewers on the edge of their seats in anticipation of Joey’s choice and the outcome of it.
“At first, I thought he was going to pick Daisy, but now I feel like it will be Kelsey A.,” said Katy Buxton, a nursing student at Rose State College, before the show’s ending.
With only two women left, Joey introduced Kelsey A. and Daisy to his family and had one last date with each woman in this season’s final episode. The finale was then followed by After the Final Rose, where Joey and his potential fianceé was introduced as a couple for the Kelsey A.
first time in public. After the Final Rose is the live portion of the finale so viewers across the nation could witness the highly-anticipated season ending at the same time.
Both women were in love with Joey when meeting his family and openly expressed their feelings to them. The problem is only one of them would be chosen by Joey. This gut-wrenching decision weighs on all three of them, as they finish out their journeys together.
Each woman had one final date with Joey before he was set to propose to one of them. Daisy and Joey spent time on a spiritual date in Tulum. During their date, Daisy had a moment of fear that made her question if Joey would pick her. This fear continued into the night portion as she told Joey she loved him, and he did not give her any validation.
Kelsey had the final date, getting a spa day with Joey. Both absolutely loved the day which carried them easily into the night portion of the date. Kelsey shared her love for Joey at Fantasy Suites and continued to share this love during their final date. Unlike with Daisy, Joey was able to validate Kelsey’s feelings and their relationship.
Going into the final day, proposal day, Daisy knew it wasn’t her.
Jenn Tran
Daisy shockingly went to see Kelsey before the final rose. This is something that has never happened before as the final two do not normally speak on the last week of the show. Daisy and Kelsey chose to ride to the proposal together. Daisy took Joey’s rejection with grace and encouraged Kelsey before she walked down to her future.
Joey has been known to wear his heart on his sleeve and was crushed after he broke Daisy’s heart, but he knew Kelsey was the one for him.
Joey’s proposal to Kelsey was magical.
After the Final Rose beautifully wrapped up this well-loved season, Joey was named the best bachelor; the women have shown the world what it means to be a “girl’s girl,” and Joey and Kelsey found each other.
The next Bachelorette was announced at the end of the episode. Jenn Tran, who was in Joey’s top five, but was ultimately sent home before hometowns, will be the first Asian-American bachelorette. This was a shocking choice as many expected Daisy or fan favorite Maria to be picked, but Jenn is a well-deserved pick and is history in the making as ABC continues to try to diversify its contestants.
By DeAndrea Samuel
“The Boy and the Heron,” also known as “How Do You Live,” is an Academy Award-winning, 2D animated film from Studio Ghibli and Hayao Miyazaki. The movie is centered around a young boy named Mahito who tragically lost his mother to a hospital fire during a devastating war strike. Years after losing his mother, Mahito and his father moved to the countryside to be closer to his work while living with Mahito’s new pregnant stepmother. While in the country, Mahito encounters interesting new people and one incredibly intrusive bird that makes him rethink everything he knows. This changes his life forever.
This beautiful masterpiece is the final movie to be created by the legendary Japanese cartoonist and Studio Ghibli filmmaker, Hayao Miyazaki. “The Boy and the Heron” is partially based upon the 1937 novel “How Do You Live?” by Japanese author Genzabura Yoshino, but it is also a partial autobiography of Miyazaki’s life. There are many similarities between the main character and Miyazaki as they were both young boys who lost their mothers and were scorned by raging wars, therefore Miyazaki was able to place a lot of himself into this film.
Grief, loss, letting go and the ability to keep going are major themes throughout the movie. Mahito struggles with his mother’s death while being incorporated into a life and a family
that he hardly identifies with. As the movie progresses, he learns to accept that there are things that he can and cannot control, but also things that he does not want to be able to control. This acceptance allows him to make peace with his past and future. Though the movie is certainly fictitious, it’s something that everyone can relate to in some capacity. However, though the undertones of the movie are generally melancholy, oddly enough, the movie was pretty playful, as it was very colorful, and several characters served as comedic relief. Sometimes it seemed a bit weird, but it was always tasteful and generally well done.
“The Boy and the Heron” did a great job of reiterating some of the most recognizable Ghibli motifs, such as the presence of lush nature scenes, adorable blobbish characters, and themes of pure, childlike innocence and curiosity. It’s uncommon to see these themes in modern films, so it’s always a breath of fresh air to see in a Miyazaki film, and “The Boy and the Heron’’ did not disappoint.
I certainly could not write a review without acknowledging Joe Hisaishi, the long-term partner of Miyazaki and notable musical composer of many Studio Ghibli projects, including “The Boy and the Heron.” I was surprised by how tame the soundtrack was. In other movies such as “Howl’s Moving Castle,”
the soundtrack is almost as notable as the movie itself. However, in “Boy and the Heron,” the music served more as a catalyst for different emotions and themes in the movie rather than being a focal point. However, it fits the movie to a Tee. It was very thought-provoking and enabled the beautiful, detailed scenes to shine. In all, I would say that the music was less memorable than other soundtracks that Hisaishi has done, but it was very alluring and stimulating.
Where I feel the story fell flat was the character development. I think the main character, Mahito, was well-rounded. He was an intelligent and somber boy who learned to cope with the problems that life threw at him during his crazy adventure. However, I think most of the other characters felt one-dimensional. The heron primarily served as comedic relief, which was unexpected based on how the character is initially portrayed, but the heron also had a largely unexplored mysterious side. Mahito’s stepmother certainly needed more development. Throughout the movie, her character remained so cryptic that she felt incredibly hard to understand. Maybe that was the point, but it could have been done better. Kiriko, the woman who helped Mahito on his journey, also felt one-dimensional. She was likable, but aside from her hard exterior and compassion for the weak, there wasn’t much more to her character. Honestly, I was pretty shocked that
the characters lacked complexity. Typically, Miyazaki’s characters are deeper, even if they are only seen briefly. I think this aspect made the movie a bit confusing as so many themes and characters were introduced. However, the animation, themes and overall uniqueness of the movie makes the movie worth watching.
As much as I would love for Miyazaki to come out of retirement again and make more movies, I feel like “The Boy and the Heron” was the perfect ending. It’s the cherry on top of the sundae, the bow on the present and the calm after the storm that leaves you with a sense of peace and appreciation for the magnificent 61 years of dedicated artistry that Miyazaki has given to us. However, even with all of these feelings, just like the movie, it’s not really over. His work will continue to inspire people and leave them in awe. “The Boy and the Heron” further solidified his status as a legend and master of his craft.
If it’s your first time considering watching a Studio Ghibli movie, I would recommend that you watch “Ponyo,” “Howl’s Moving Castle” or “Laputa: Castle in the Sky” first. These movies are a bit less jarring, yet they will still give you a better understanding of his creative process and how his mind works. However, if you want to dive into the deep end, or it’s not your first go-around, I think this movie is certainly a must-watch.
Photos from GKids
Do you remember me?
By Jacobey Brossie
Mrs. C: Jacobey, due to your outburst, you must serve recess time.
Me: “I’m not serving recess time.”
It was back in 2013. I was a young third grade student attending Tulakes Elementary School in the Putnam City Public School District. I was a student in Mrs. C’s class.
When I was a kid, I gave Mrs. C small problems, but I wasn’t a bad kid, just a class clown trying to get laughs. I remember having to serve recess several times due to my class foolishness and outbursts. I was the kid who would sneak off the wall and go play, knowing that it was wrong because I would think twice about doing it. But I would still do it because my friends would say “I bet you won’t do it,” and I would say, “I bet you I will,” and then, of course, I would do it.
Mrs. C would take note of everything and contact my mother during her work hours.
“Hi, Mrs. Brossie. I have Jacobey here, he’s continuing to make an outburst,” she would say.
The next day, “Hey, Mrs .Brossie, I have Jacobey with me. He decided to sneak off the wall to go play with his friends during recess.”
I would have to talk to my mom. She would say over the phone, “Why do you continue to have this lady call my phone?”
I would stay quiet and mumble, trying to play sweet victim to convince my mom I’m a good kid in class.
After the phone call, I would throw a tantrum because I couldn’t control how upset I was. I couldn’t play with my friends during recess. I would stomp up the hallway and Mrs. C would say “let’s call Mom back.”
I used to always think Mrs.C was picking on me until I realized Mrs.C was the nicest third grade teacher I could ever ask for.
It’s been more than nine years since I saw or spoke to Mrs. C , hoping one day I would get the opportunity to see or speak with her. The last time I saw Mrs.C it was May 20, 2013.
May 20, 2013
“We are going into our emergency tornado plan,” said Tulakes Elementary Principal Lee Roland.
Most kids panicked and were crying. A couple of my friends and I had days before practiced the tornado drill. We joked during the drill, saying “this is uncomfortable” or “why do we have to do this.”
I now understand why. The ninth deadliest tornado in Oklahoma history struck that day. A little after 1 p.m., I saw Mrs. C crying. I remember seeing other teachers giving her a shoulder to lean on. My friends and I all wanted to give her a hug, but we were instructed to “stay down in a roly poly position with our heads tucked” as staff informed us. I was amazed to see how all the teachers who I thought hated us put their lives in danger to protect us.
I remember seeing Mrs. C cry and heard her say, “They are not answering.” The fear in her eyes. It made me cry. She was such a nice, sweet and strong lady, so to see her cry, I just knew something was not right.
As I watched Mrs. C, I heard another teacher step over to another teacher and say, “her husband and baby are still in the house; she can’t get in touch with them to make sure they are okay.”
My friends and I just looked at each other as they started crying in fear for Mrs.C’s family and the situation we were in.
We were soon able to come out of the tornado plan. It was then Mrs. C was informed her
family was safe and had been in a neighbor’s storm shelter.
However, Mrs. C lost all her belongings that day. Her home was completely destroyed, with only a bookshelf and a Bible remaining.
A little after that day, Mrs.C was gone. I remember having a sub for a long time, I started missing Mrs.C a lot, as did my classmates.
Two of my classmates were Rita Ojene and Renee Lerma. Rita and Renee and other classmates decided we should raise money for Mrs.C. We brainstormed many ideas and finally came up using a penny jar to collect money. Parents within the whole community donated money to Mrs.C.
A kid younger than I brought his entire piggy bank. The little boy was planning to save his money for a new toy but thought that Mrs. C would need it more. The act melted hearts.
We raised money for Mrs.C and her family. She came back to Tulakes to talk to the class, and we surprised her with the money. She broke down and I just remember saying, “thank you, thank you.” Her gratefulness was apparent.
March 6, 2023
I started thinking more and more about Mrs. C, so I decided to reach out through Facebook Messenger on March 6, 2023, nearly 10 years after that event.
I recounted the day, and told her how much she meant to me.
She replied within five minutes, having written, “Jacobey, you have me in tears my friend. You are and always have been a kiddo that I knew had the potential to do amazing things. Your words mean more to me than I could ever express. The acts that you all did after the tornado meant the absolute world to me. The kindest, most thoughtfulgroup of kids that I have had the privilege to teach in my career.”
I even had the opportunity to talk with my third
grade classmates who organized the fundraiser.
“I remember students bringing small jars of change to give and parents donating hygiene necessities as well,” Rita said.
Renee spoke highly of Mrs. C.
“I remember her always being there for her students, and I remember us just wanting to help her as much as we could,” she said. “I might’ve not fully understood what she was going through at that age, but I remember wanting to help her as much as she had for me. It was an experience I’ll never forget. The look on her face was lifechanging, she wasn’t only a teacher but someone that I admire to this day.”
Thank you Mrs. C for being a wonderful third grade teacher.
We’ve seen a recent outbreak in Oklahoma this tornado season. This is a reminder to locate a local shelter (usually grocery stores have storm shelters), and know where to go during severe weather. Rose State also has storm shelters on campus for students. Don’t wait until the lastminute. Have a plan. Communicate that plan with your friends and family in advance.
Prepare for this time of year, tornadoes are strong and frequent at this time of year, so having a game plan and preparing will keep you safe.
Fix Me If You Can Mr. Holmes
Story and Photos By Sean Penn*
“Moriarty The Patriot” is a series published by Shonen Jump and distributed by Viz media in America. I did not think much of it when I saw the thumbnail. It was a group of guys walking in a dark Victorian street.
I asked my brother, and he said it was a knockoff of “Death Note.” I did not pay much attention to it until I finished “Death Note.” I loved “Death Note.” It’s such a well-written and executed crime thriller, and after finishing it I wanted something similar to fill the void. So I chose “Moriarty The Patriot.”
It was not what I was expecting. It had the darkness and the mental twists like “Death Note,” but not what made “Death Note” such an amazing series. Moriarty is so close to perfection. Half the time I love it, but the other half I hate it. And how good it is only makes the flaws even more unforgivable. These complaints have been burning inside me with no way of communicating them other than the general comment of it being “almost perfect.” Be warned, the following will contain spoilers for “Moriarty the Patriot.”
Moriarty and The treatment of Sherlock
For a series about Moriarty, Sherlock is the best part. His introduction made me fall in love with him. I physically cannot express how much I loved his introduction. He is written like your average Sherlock Holmes but with much more. Sherlock is the reason I stuck with the series and the reason I recommended it to my sister. He is also one of the biggest reasons why the series could be better.
In Holmes’ and Moriarty’s game of crime and punishment, the writer has many characters treat Sherlock like he is less intelligent than them. In “Death Note,” all of the characters acknowledged each other’s intelligence but worked to defeat one another.
In “Moriarty the Patriot” they just use “He is three steps ahead!” as the excuse every time Moriarty outsmarts Sherlock. Then
they have Moriarty say something about how he is winning only because he does not mind killing.
The Darkness of the Series
Moriarty the Patriot is unnecessarily dark, and it is completely unwarranted. I understand some series can be dark and still amazing (I read “Tokyo Ghoul” and enjoyed the ending not realizing there was a sequel comic). Most iconic series have the darkness balanced out by the good. Well, this is not the case for Moriarty. If there is a small child featured, expect the kid to be used against you as fuel to power the grief machine.
In a chapter titled “The White Knight,” there was heavy inspiration taken from Christopher Nolan’s “The Dark Knight,” a politician’s entire household is killed, including his wheelchairbound little brother, to trick him into taking revenge on the killer. The politician kills the murderer out of rage, potentially ruining his plans to improve the country. Moriarty
offers him a deal to save the politician’s cause and blame the murders on the Lord of Crime (Moriarty’s alter ego). They blame it all on having the Lord of Crime murder him in broad daylight. This exaggerated darkness is not balanced by anything at all. It is just there to try to make you feel something.
I also hate how the writer is committed to making the reader think Moriarty and his crew are the villains. Moriarty’s group will kill a bunch of hideous people and say, “ Wow, we are so villainous,” when the chapter before the people they killed were hunting kids for sport. Moriarty at worst is an antihero and at best a vigilante. If the writer wants to make him a bad guy then he should make him do bad things and not just execute justice. The duality of having them do good but also wanting them to be evil in name is frustrating.
This series is one that I truly enjoy and hate. The dichotomy is frustrating, perplexing and very off-putting. If it could be hot or cold I would feel nothing about it, but since it has me in a weird limbo of love, I cannot get it out of my mind.
Post-Punk Hidden Gems
By Peter Monden
I listen to a lot of music. Some of my favorite bands are virtually unknown. Recently, I’ve been thinking about bands with great albums that nobody’s heard of. I’m going to list and briefly describe a few “must listen to” albums and mention a few of my favorite tracks from each.
I’ll start with “Permanent Sleep” by Lowlife. This album was released in ‘86. Lowlife is a Scottish post-punk band with a very unique sound. Their music is slow and melancholic, the guitar and instrumentals have a repetitive, somewhat oscillating quality. The band has a slight resemblance to the Cocteau Twins but with a male vocalist. The resemblance isn’t a coincidence as two of Lowlifes members are former members of the Cocteau Twins. They have a distinctly low energy and almost hypnotic sound. My favorite tracks are “A Year Past July,” “Coward’s Way” and “Mother Tongue.” The whole album is great and I recommend it to fans of post punk in particular. Lowlife has just over twenty-thousand monthly listeners on Spotify.
My third pick is “If Two Worlds Kiss” by Pink Turns Blue. This album is what got me into post-punk. Released in 1987, this album flew under the radar of most goth-rock fans. Pink Turns Blue is a German band with a sound that fits in more with contemporary post-punk than the era it originally released in. Pink Turns Blue is characterized by instrumentals that are a little energetic for post-punk and haunting vocal delivery. Some must hear songs from the album include: “Walking on both sides,” “After all” and “Missing you.” The album is probably a little too homogenous but it’s very good. Pink Turns Blue has just above a hundred-thousand monthly listeners on Spotify.
I’ve chosen “Venus” by Invincible as my second-place pick. The album was released in 1999. When I was looking for bands similar to the Chameleons, I found Invincible. The similarity is no coincidence as the bands share frontman Mark Burgess as bassist, vocalist and lyricist. Despite still falling under the goth rock umbrella, Invincible is probably the least sad sounding band on this list. Most of the tracks on Venus have a kind of apathetic, melancholic and wistful sound. I would even describe the instrumentals as almost like shoegaze but slightly more cohesive. My favorite songs from the album are “Think (It’s Going To Happen),” “Kinks” and “Gethsemane.” Venus is a very consistent album, I recommend it to anyone who likes shoegaze or more ethereal post punk. Shockingly, Invincible only has 101 monthly listeners on Spotify at the time I’m writing this.
My pick for the most underrated album is “Amygdala” by Grundeis. Amygdala was released in 2021. Grundeis is a German post-punk band with a robust sound featuring multilayered guitars and excellent vocals. The guitar layers take turns working their way in and out in a way that is particularly captivating and the drums match that energy. The vocals fit the tone perfectly with a semi-apathetic sound that has just enough underlying passion to sell it. There’s a dryly haunting and almost anxious quality that to their sound that I’ve never heard pulled off so effectively, and I listen to a lot of goth bands. I like the album so much that I’ll be reviewing it on its own in more detail, but for now I’ll just list my favorite track: “Never Got Away.” With just over a thousand monthly listeners on spotify, Grundeis is criminally underrated. I would go as far as to call them the most underrated modern post-punk band. I’ll save the rest of my favorite tracks for another time, but it goes without saying I highly recommend Amygdala.
Link to Playlist
Women’s Athletics Are On The Rise
By Dakota Schick
Basketball, volleyball and gymnastics lead the way in the female athletics boom. Across the country, sports are a known topic with many fans considered a ride or die for their team. Names like Michael Jordan, Mike Trout, Lebron James and Tom Brady have been household names for generations. Today, these household names consist of Caitlin Clark, Olivia Dunne and Angel Reese.
In August of 2023, Nebraska volleyball hosted the University of Nebraska Omaha. It was reported by The Daily Cardinal that 92,003 fans broke the world record for a women’s sporting event.
MPR and The Daily Cardinal Reports, “For 2024, women’s sports are predicted to bring in $1.28 billion in revenue according to the Deloitte Sports Business Group, 300 percent higher than the last three years,”
Social media has played a role in the presence of female athletics. In 2021, a video was posted to TikTok and X formally known as Twitter, showing the training facilities around the Women’s NCAA March Madness Tournament. Since this video was blasted all around the internet, the Women’s Tournament has seen much improvement.
This year, the March Madness Tournament received record viewership, with the national championship recording 18.7 million viewers as reported by NPR.
As well as using social media for change, stars like Angel Reese, Haley and Hanna Cavinder, Olivia “Livvy” Dunne and Paige Bueckers are using their Tik Tok platforms to connect with fans on a closer basis.
The future of female sports is bright with the younger generation being influenced by the stars of today who are breaking through the walls of the generations before them.
(Photo from John Mac, wikemedia commons)
Sports gambling in today’s world
By Dakota Schick
When legalized by the Supreme Court in 2018, the sports gambling world saw a spike in participants. This has caused people all over the world to get involved in sports gambling including college students and professional athletes.
Many still wonder what sports gambling is and how it works. According to Forbes.com, it is “the act of risking money on the outcome of a sporting event or any aspect of a sporting
event.” The main goal is to make a profit by winning more money than what was placed on the bet.
Online sports betting has become very popular and simple to do with online websites or apps like DraftKings Sportsbook, which offers $200 instantly in bonus bets money when you download the app and place a $5 bet. With companies constantly giving aways “Free Bets” it makes it easier for people to get involved
Photo from Draft Kings
thinking that they will be able to get away from losing money.
Student gambling is widespread across college campuses around the nation. In a survey done by the National Collegiate Athletic Association in 2023, 67% of students living on campus are bettors. These students tend to bet a high frequency. Forty one percent of these bettors tend to bet on their own school’s team. The NCAA also reported the college population faces problem gambling with 16% of bettors placing at least one risky bet and 6% of bettors reported losing more than $500 within 24 hours.
“Consistent sports gambling will increase their monetary earnings,” is believed by many of the gamblers the NCAA interviewed.
Unlike college students, professional athletes are not allowed to involve themselves in sports gambling. Pete Rose, a professional baseball player who played more than 20 seasons in the MLB and considered to be a Hall of Fame player had his chances at cooperstown banned.
In 1989, Rose faced allegations of betting on baseball as gambling slips appeared belonging to Rose at an Ohio restaurant. In a report by Edward Sutelan at The Sporting News, “Rose lost $450,000 in a three-month span in 1987.”
These allegations would leave many wondering what would happen to Rose after his outstanding career. In 1989, Pete Rose signed an agreement to permanently ban him from baseball. This would go on to remove him from being eligible for ballots to the Hall of Fame, this means that fans are not allowed to vote him into the hall of fame.
More recently, Shohei Ohtani faced allegations of sports gambling and stealing money to repay debts caused by gambling. ESPN and the Los Angeles Times broke the news when they reported what Ohtani’s lawyers discussed.
As quoted on CNN from the Los Angeles Times and ESPN, “Ohtani’s lawyers accused Mizuhara of ‘massive theft’ of millions of dollars and placing bets with a bookmaker who is under federal investigation.”
After this statement was released Ohtani’s translator Mizuhara was fired. The MLB is
still investigating Ohtani’s involvement in these allegations.
On March 25, 2024, CNN posted “Major League Baseball has been gathering information since we learned about the allegations involving Shohei Ohtani and Ippei Mizuhara from the news media,” they also said “Earlier today, our Department of Investigations began their formal process investigating the matter.”
Investigators are still working to find if Ohtani has broken any of the Major League Baseball gambling rules. Players and staff are taught these rules every season during spring training.
If a player or employee gambles on baseball they can be suspended for a year. If someone who gambles on a game they are a part of in any way they can be suspended for life. The commissioner of the MLB can also penalize anyone who goes outside legal sports betting entities and gambles with a bookie.
For these professional athletes, it may ruin their career, but for the average college student or person it can cause serious financial troubles. Bettors must be careful when gambling money.
If you or anyone you know has a gambling issue call 1-800-GAMBLER for help.
Joe Glorioso/All-Pro Reels for Washington Times Sports
Football ’ s Global Powerhouse: The English Premier League
By Praveena Jackson
The English Premier League is a remarkable representation of football bragging rights, rivalries and popularity worldwide. The league provides fans worldwide with an incredible experience, from legendary matchups to historic events.
The Premier League began in 1992 preceded by the First Division of the Football League that was founded in 1888. Today it holds the status of the best football league in the world. Even though the top clubs in England don’t win the biggest European Cups with the same frequency as the top clubs in Spain, the Premier League still contains the toughest competition overall.
Top talent from all around the world competes in the EPL, resulting in fierce rivalries and exciting games. The passion and intensity of the league are best shown by iconic matches between teams like Manchester United and Liverpool.
With a sizable global fan base, the EPL breaks down barriers between different groups by bringing them together through a common love of the game. Viewed from Asia to America, its matches have cultural value and unite people from numerous countries. “This year has been good to watch. It still makes me mad when my team loses and it ruins my day but it’s part of my weekend and week when they play midweek games. I find a way to schedule things in a way that I can watch the games,” said Coach Tommy Riley, Head Women’s Soccer Coach. The English Premier League has done a great job in recent years of encouraging diversity and equality on and off the game. With its efforts to overcome discrimination and raise awareness of mental health issues, the league has emerged as an influential organization in the sports industry. Furthermore, the league’s dedication to equality and opportunity is demonstrated by the participation of players from a variety of backgrounds.
Based on Sport Preview, here are a few fascinating facts about the EPL:
• The league consists of 20 teams (except the three first seasons in which 22 teams were included), which meet each other two times (home and away) per season; 380 games are played in total. The most points by a team in a season, 100 (2.6 per match), were collected by Manchester City in the 2017-18 season.
• The first EPL season kicked off on Saturday, Aug. 15, 1992, with 22 clubs vying for the title.
• Some of the biggest names in soccer have played in the EPL, like David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo, Thierry Henry, Mo Salah and Kevin De Bruyne to name a few.
• The teams in the league have some pretty fierce rivalries, like Manchester United vs. Manchester City, Liverpool vs Everton and Arsenal vs Tottenham.
• The only teams who have been ever-present in the EPL are Arsenal, Chelsea, Everton, Liverpool, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.
• Old Trafford has a capacity of 74,310, making it the largest stadium in the Premier League. The iconic stadium is home to Manchester United, and it is a dream for fans from around the world to visit it.
• Kevin De Bruyne of Manchester City is, to date, the highest-paid player in EPL history, earning a whopping £20,800,000 annually.
The English Premier League’s appeal is undeniable as it keeps becoming more successful and captivating spectators all around the world. Anyone can enjoy the EPL, from intense matches to memorable moments, regardless of whether they have been fans of the sport for a lifetime or are just getting started. With lots of excitement for the next chapter in its legendary history, one thing is certain: for many decades to come, the English Premier League will inspire and bring people together.
Photo from Pixabay
Student Submissions
Kaitlyn Dierksen, General Studies Major
Aspen, CO
E’s con C’s
Like fog, you suddenly appeared
Similarly by physics, i’m the definition of feeling rhapsodic
The oxytocin I obtained was on your hands smeared
But time passes and actions taken by you were eccentric
My comprehension slowed as a contradiction of this from your words of affirmation
Concept of delusion drowns my own being through hope
Ciena Jennings, Fine Arts Major
Dalton Mathews, Fine Arts Major
Peyton Stein, Mechanical Engineering Major
Jaidynn Langston, Biology Major
Jake Whitlock, Art & Graphic Design Major
You are Never Done Being Afraid
Kacie Parker, Liberal Studies Major
Howard
Marissa Stride, English Major
Missing Part of Me
My mind is constant chaos constantly reeling with bad thoughts So much so that I’m not confident that I could fly with Peter Pan I’m broken damaged unfixable happiness is not a part that I was designed with Instead I was given Depression and anxiety they make even seemingly happy times not
I try to fix it try to think happy thoughts but nothing seems to work and I hate that I hate that I feel like a broken clock who can only be happy seldomly I’m so sick of feeling this way hopefully one day I’ll be fixable maybe fly on a happy thought or even tick along on time but until then my happiness was not included ~missing piece
Let me explain ...
This latest entry in the Eating Worms series takes place a few days before Christmas, the more perceptive among you might have noticed it is not Christmas season. The more demanding of you might expect some sort of answer. Fortunately, I have an explanation; I work slowly.
Production of Eating Worms strips has never been organized or consistent. If I recall correctly I released my first thanksgiving strip after the same year’s Christmas strip. Right now I’m in the process of juggling about twenty five mostly finished strips so they can be released in chronological order. None of my comics have been finished on time or in order since February of 2023. The hope is that once I’ve sorted everything out and released it, I can continue in a more organized fashion.
I’ve opted to develop the characters a little bit at a time. Due to these changes adding up, I need a way to catch readers up on what’s been missed. I want the strips which appear in the 15th Street News and 6420 Magazine to maintain a sense of coherence where it matters. My idea for a 2023 Christmas special was a natural fit as it touched on all of the more meaningful changes. Slipping in lines to address other little things was easy and made it a great way to catch up on the characters.
The seasonal theming of the story isn’t really important to the story itself, well it is and it isn’t. I think the story holds up outside of christmastime. I think the themes and continuity are more important than the timing. As usual with my longer strips, I feel like it doesn’t have enough jokes. The story becomes the focus with a strip like this. I never know quite how to feel about my longer storylines as I feel the main purpose of a comic is to be funny. I’m also not especially confident in my ability to create a good story. In fairness I’m not so confident in my ability to write jokes either. At least the drawings are competent. Since I’m so unsure how to feel about it, I guess that leaves readers to determine the merit or lack thereof in what I’ve created. So here you go, Christmas in May!
