Happy 60th Birthday to Academy Award Winning, Golden Globe Winning, SAG Award Winning actor Nicolas Cage! ^__^

Native American men were required to register for the draft in World War Two even though in most states they could not vote. 

Ira Hayes was a Pima war hero. He became famous as one of the men in the iconic flag raising at Iwo Jima. Upon return to Arizona, he faced discrimination in the state where he was not allowed to vote. 

Seminole men refused to register for the draft on the grounds that they were still at war with the United States. 

Iroquois men refused to register because they did not consider themselves US citizens. 

Those who enlisted didn’t fare much better. Navajo soldiers found themselves frequently threatened by some of their fellow US Marines “because they looked like Japanese.”

Deltarune Yellow: Stories from Another Place

After playing through Undertale Yellow I thought "What if these characters were in the Deltarune world" so I went ahead and wrote a few short stories based on that idea: https://archiveofourown.org/works/52748578/chapters/133414159

Here's a general gist of what the folks from UTY are like in Deltarune

Clover lives in a town called "Notheast" (it's just Arizona, it's the absolute worst) with Martlet. Adopted at a very young age by her and despite not knowing how to be a mother at first, Martlet has raised him well. He loves old cowboy movies and always wears his iconic hat and bandana.

"North Star" and his "posse" are just normal working folks who reenact old western battles in their free time (really no different than the usual). Clover hangs out with them.

Martlet is a local town official who tries to keep things as orderly as she but really her efforts hinder more than they help, no one has the heart to tell her this though. She adopted Clover when he was 4 and been his cool bird mom ever since.

Ceroba runs a martial arts class and occasionally larps with "North Star". Is still married to Chujin, they have their issues but what couple doesn’t?

Chujin runs an electronics store that he's trying to remodel, it still has the cheezy atmosphere of 80's advertising from back when. Also takes care of a flower garden in the town center, it's a nice reprieve from all the sand. Kanako helps out with the gardening and occasionally mans the store register when Chujin can’t. Used to be a big shot… so they say

Kanako is a friend of Clover's since they were in 1st grade elementary. She wants to be a hero but isn't sure what she wants to do that would be "heroic" enough to help people. She larps with Clover but pretends to be a samurai instead… even though the group thinks it ruins the mood when everyone is shooting (nerf) guns at each other while she batters people with a wooden katana.

Dalv died in a mishap with makeshift explosives, all that was left of his house was a single Balloon… or atleast that’s the exaggerated story of it. Truth was the man accidently lit a match near an open propane tank. The balloon did survive though don’t worry.

There's a mining operation happening west of the town but the locals don't know what their mining for. There’s rumors of hidden treasures and impossible creatures but the Miners wont speak a lick to locals.

Axis only exists as Chujins store Mascot, the cardboard cutout of him is a common target of harassment by kids. Someone punched a hole through it once and nobody knows why.

That doesn't cover everyone but I'll get to those folks when I can gather my thoughts more.

st. louis public radio: “Fashion icon Karlie Kloss emphasizes Missouri's role in national abortion rights fight” by Jason Rosenbaum

Webster Groves native Karlie Kloss took the modeling world by storm in the 2010s before launching a highly successful effort to connect young women with computer coding and, more recently, helping relaunch Life magazine.

On Monday, Kloss discussed another passion: her advocacy for abortion rights in Missouri and around the Midwest.

“I'm one of four daughters. I grew up here in the Midwest. My father is a physician. The idea of reproductive care was never political in my house,” Kloss said. “It's devastating to me the reality of what is happening and how it has become so politicized. Because to me, this is a conversation that belongs between an individual and their physician and an individual and their loved ones. To me, politicians should not be involved.”

Kloss helped gather signatures in Creve Coeur for the Missourians for Constitutional Freedom initiative, a measure that would legalize the procedure up to what’s known as fetal viability. That’s defined in the initiative as when medical professionals determine that a fetus could survive outside of the womb without extraordinary medical intervention.

Before Roe v. Wade was overturned in 2022, Kloss started the Gateway Coalition, which provides financial and logistical assistance to small clinics that provide abortions throughout the Midwest. She said those facilities, particularly the ones in Illinois, have become havens for people in states like Missouri where most abortions are prohibited.

“What I really realized, especially once Roe fell, was about the fragmentation of care across this country, but specifically in the Midwest,” Kloss said. “I wanted to do whatever I could, and initially focused on Illinois of just the infrastructure that exists — the independent clinics, the clinics across Illinois who are really holding up the front line.”

She called the Missourians for Constitutional Freedom initiative “an opportunity to take it to the ballot box and actually have Missourians reinstall protections in our home state.”

“So you don't have to leave Missouri to receive just the vital care that I believe every woman deserves,” Kloss said.

Since rolling out the initiative at the beginning of the year, Missourians for Constitutional Freedom has raised more than $4.5 million in contributions of more than $5,000. That includes a $50,000 donation from Kloss.

She said that the initiative can find support with a wide range of voters — pointing specificallyto polling from SLU/YouGov that showed more than 20% of Republican respondents backed the initiative.

“They see this as a human issue,” Kloss said. “And also, the fact is that the trigger ban that went into effect had no exceptions, which to me is just unacceptable.”

Kloss was referring to how Missouri’s abortion ban that went into effect in June 2022 contained no exceptions for anyone who became pregnant due to rape or incest.

If organizers get roughly 171,000 signatures all over the state, the amendment legalizing abortion could go before voters in either August or November. It’s part of a trend in other states, including Arizona and Florida, of trying to use the initiative petition process to enshrine abortion rights.

Backers have until May 5 to turn in signatures.

Kloss said there’s a reason for people everywhere to care about what’s happening in Missouri and other states with strict abortion bans.

“To me this issue is about dignity,” Kloss said. “It's about respect and an individual's bodily autonomy to decide what is right for them in their life at whatever time they need to be making that choice. And so this ban, I believe, we have a chance to overturn.”

While in town Monday, Kloss participated in a ceremony officially naming a portion of Washington Avenue after her.

Iron Claw Blog

“Iron Claw”, a movie directed by Sean Durkin, takes a look back at the Von Erich wrestling family who were a staple of the 1980’s wrestling scene. The tragic story told in the movie “Iron Claw” goes beyond just the tragedy that the Von Erichs faced but also the psychological issues that the majority of wrestlers at the time faced. The film looks into the psychological toll of the sport's demanding nature and the pressures of maintaining larger-than-life personas. Along with the dietary restrictions that no person should be subject to. Through its unique storytelling and character development, the film sheds light on the often-overlooked struggles of wrestlers.

"Iron Claw" shows the Von Erich brothers Kevin, Kerry, David, and Mike who were raised in a wrestling-centric family by their famous father, Fritz. The film looks at how the wrestling lifestyle dominated their family, leading to tragic consequences. Despite David's role as the family's pillar, his death from acute enteritis in Tokyo deeply affects his brothers but not as much as his father. Mike's suicide three years later, driven by pressure from Fritz and depression over David's death and his abandoned musical aspirations, further devastates the family. Six years after Mike's death, Kerry's suicide, stemming from Fritz's stress and his own depression after a motorcycle accident ended his wrestling career, shatters Kevin, who had spoken to Kerry shortly before he had died. The film portrays the brothers reuniting at their childhood lake after the death of all the brothers. Symbolizing their happier times together, and ends with Kevin, now a father to two boys, emotionally overwhelmed by memories of his brothers as he watches his sons throwing the football together. Through Von Erichs' story, "Iron Claw" explores the power of depression, the importance of mental health awareness, and looking at each brother's individual struggles.

With this eye opening film gaining so much notoriety it caused the question of mental health within the wrestling industry. Since the Von Erichs there have been many tragedies within the industry for example Chris Benoit who killed his wife and son before taking his own life, this was done after a long struggle from depression that had stemmed from wrestling. A Journal from the University of Minnesota Crookston took a look at the landscape of wrestlers current and past with mental issues. “Iconic wrestlers including The Rock, Hulk Hogan, and others have revealed struggles with depression” (Johannesen, 2022). These big names dealing with the issues of depression shine light on the fact that no matter the fame or fortune you hit in the sport depression can affect any and everyone. The article also looked into detail on a study done by Joseph Fargiorgio that interviewed former professional wrestlers for a major research study on wrestling and wellness. “According to a few of the participants, overwhelming amounts of stress in their lives may be the real cause of early death for some wrestlers. Sam, who both wrestles and promotes his own wrestling company, explains that wrestlers balance a variety of types of stress in their lives, including the stress they place on their bodies, the stress of constant travel, and the stress of trying to balance their personal and family lives” (Johannesen, 2022). Another study looked at the pressures of wrestling and how it can make mental health issues that much worse. This one focused more so on the actual sport of wrestling which is where these professionals begin their journey. This article took a look at these collegiate wrestlers and their mental health struggles. It focused mainly on a wrestler by the name of Ryan Millhof who wrestled at Arizona State University. When asked about his mental state as he progressed in his career he said  “When I started getting to a higher level of wrestling (that) is when my depression and anxiety started becoming more noticeable,” Millhof said. “You’re dealing with higher-level emotions, physical aspects, schoolwork, and personal life” (Smith, 2020). This connects to the issues we see in the film “Iron Claw” where the weight of their wrestling, family life and work become too much of a burden on them. The final article looked at a Wabash wrestling team that had been highly successful with national titles and academic achievements. Although with all the success former players complained it was a toxic environment where coaches would disregard mental issues the players would have. A wrestler by the name of Jose was asked why the environment was so toxic for him, he responded with “The lack of attention that I got from the coaches—I started attributing it to me personally, and I started obsessing over it and making it my own self-worth,” José said. “I already had a lot on my plate, and I was breaking down mentally” (Bullock, 2023). Overall, the film “Iron Claw” helped shine light on mental issues within the professional wrestling industry but also the collegiate level of wrestling. The issues we see in current and past days correlate so heavily to what was shown in the film “Iron Claw” which makes the movie's effectiveness that much more impactful. 

In terms of the film's reception from fans and avid movie goers it received a mix of good and bad reviews. Lots of people felt the film captured the story of the Von Erich’s extremely well. But others were longing for a bit more than what the film was offering. A fan blog dived deeper into what they think the film could have done better and they said ​​”None of the deaths feel particularly impactful because we failed to spend a sufficient amount of time with any of the characters prior to the tragedy” (Terry, 2023). This is a fair point for what the film could have done better. Although the film does a good job of feeling for the characters in the film they make every death come abruptly and it begins to feel like they all happened shortly after one another. Which for one is not factually true as each death took place years apart and also does not let us get to know the characters better which makes their death less impactful. With this being sad a consensus comment about the film that everyone seems to love is the acting in this film. Everyone in the film did a great job in all of their roles but most specifically Zac Efron in the role as Kevin was possibly his greatest acting feat of his career. People with Rotten Tomatoes agree with the these sentiments as the top critic consensus review about this film reads “Powerfully acted and profoundly sad, The Iron Claw honors its fact-based story with a dramatization whose compassionate exploration of family ties is just as hard-hitting as its action in the wrestling ring.” The top audience consensus comment was similar saying “The Iron Claw is a powerfully emotional movie with some outstanding acting in support of a very sad real-life story” (Rotten Tomatoes, 2023). Although the film had some backlash the overall reception was extremely high, earning 7.7/10 stars on imdb and receiving a featured review that spoke well about the film and finished with “Wonderful work. This is a must to see in theaters. A small screen will not show the subtle performances” (IMDB, 2023).

As discussed earlier Zac Efron earned high remarks for his reenactment of Kevin Von Erich. His movement from being seen as a one dimensional actor who could not branch out to a more serious role is thrown out the window with this project. Variety did a page on Efron’s stellar performance and his change in image as an actor. “Efron’s performance in “The Iron Claw” stands as proof that some golden boys have the potential to melt themselves down and reshape themselves into something new” (Addario, 2023). Zac Efron has not only reshaped his image but has paved the way for other actors who are looking to do the same. In terms of how Zac felt doing this part it was mixed feelings. On the one hand he loved this serious role and the ability to try something that was up in the air on how it would do in the box office. On the other hand he was worried about one specific critic and what they would think of his acting job. That critic being Kevin Von Erich the only surviving brother of the bunch and the man Zac was acting as in the film. Zac said “it’s something that you try and kind of push back a little bit, you’re trying to just do the work and get it done, but it’s always in the back of your mind, ‘What’s Kevin really going to think of this’” (Chuba, 2023). This must be a massively daunting task to have in the back of your mind a feeling of making someone proud of your work whose story is so sentimental. Especially with the added difficulty from director Sean Durkin’s decision to try and involve Kevin Von Erich in the filmmaking process as little as possible in order to get his raw reaction upon release. Durkin and the cast discussed with Vanity Fair a bit more in depth some of their tactics in making this as realistic and jarring as possible. An example the cast discussed was the brothers would wait to celebrate when they realized he was far enough away. This clearly symbolizes the fear they felt about him hearing them enjoying themselves for once. Durkin even explains they subtly had Mike in the background of some of the scenes away from the brothers in an attempt to show his difference in hobbies and being left out from the wrestling side of the family (Fair, 2023). Overall this film used subtle techniques and tactics to symbolize these mental challenges and loneliness between the characters. Along with the stellar acting of the characters, specifically Zac Efron, it makes for a very effective film that dives into the deep rooted issues of mental health within the sport of wrestling. 

"Iron Claw," directed by Sean Durkin, masterfully portrays the tragic story of the Von Erich wrestling family, diving deep into the psychological and physical toll of the wrestling world in the 1980s. The film highlights the broader mental health issues among wrestlers of that era, shedding light on the pressures of maintaining larger-than-life personas and the sport's demanding nature. Through its unique storytelling and character development, "Iron Claw" looks at the often-overlooked struggles of wrestlers, prompting important conversations about mental health in both professional and collegiate wrestling. 

Work Cited

Johannesen, Danielle. “Mick Foley’s Mankind and the P s Mankind and the Performance of Mental Illness in formance of Mental Illness in Professional Wrestling.” Survive and Thrive: A Journal for Medical Humanities and Narrative as Medicine , vol. 8, no. 2, 2022. Health, Illness and Injury in Professional Wrestling. 

Smith, Lamar. “Pressures of Wrestling Can Exacerbate Mental Health Issues.” Global Sport Matters, 4 Dec. 2020, globalsportmatters.com/health/2019/12/18/pressures-of-wrestling-can-exacerbate-mental-health-issues/. 

’23, Benjamin Bullock. “‘There’s a Fear around Walking Away’: Wrestlers Quit Team after Health and Well-Being Concerns Allegedly Go Ignored.” The Bachelor, 21 Apr. 2023, bachelor.wabash.edu/2023/04/theres-a-fear-around-walking-away-wrestlers-quit-team-after-health-and-well-being-concerns-allegedly-go-ignored/. 

Terry, R.L., and R.L. Terry. “The Iron Claw Film Review.” R.L. Terry ReelView, 12 Dec. 2023, rlterryreelview.com/2023/12/12/ironclaw/. 

“The Iron Claw.” Rotten Tomatoes, www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_iron_claw_2023. Accessed 4 May 2024. 

“The Iron Claw.” IMDb, IMDb.com, 22 Dec. 2023, www.imdb.com/title/tt21064584/. 

Addario, Daniel. “Zac Efron Wrestles with His Legacy: How the ‘high School Musical’ Alum Finally Found His Purpose with ‘Iron Claw.’” Variety, Variety, 14 Dec. 2023, variety.com/2023/film/features/zac-efron-iron-claw-prep-high-school-musical-legacy-1235834297/. 

Chuba, Kirsten. “Zac Efron on ‘Jarring’ Transformation for ‘The Iron Claw’: ‘I Did Not Look Anything like Me.’” The Hollywood Reporter, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 Dec. 2023, www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/zac-efron-jarring-transformation-the-iron-claw-premiere-1235746541/. Fair,

Vanity. “Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White & Harris Dickinson Break down ‘iron Claw’ with Director Sean Durkin.” YouTube, Vanity Fair, 20 Dec. 2023, www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPGdKB3h8bo.

As "Ameriican Requiem" opens with gospel-inspired elegance, the melody will quickly switch into -- what will become -- Cowboy Carter's signature acoustic twang. As the melody turns with synth sparkle, you realize Beyoncé has provided us her new 'pledge of allegiance': "For things to stay the same, they need to change again." Amen!

The gospel -- in terms of scripture, rather than musicality -- captures my attention here. Perhaps I've been listening to too much old-school blues, but Cowboy Carter's biblical references provide through-lines to the heart of Southern Black country and blues music. This isn't to say that this is Beyoncé's first time bringing God into her lyrics; but rather, the spiritual exclamations and jubilations of Cowboy Carter seem more fully realized when married with the sounds of blues' forebearers like Blind Joe Taggart ("God's Gonna Separate the Wheat from the Tares); Sister Rosetta Tharpe ("Precious Lord, Take My Hand"); and Arizona Dranes ("My Soul is a Witness"). These parallels can be drawn through acoustics, through the embellished runs Beyoncé uses to emphasize milestones within her songs' narratives (think of the octave change on "early age" in verse one and the bridge of "16 Carriages").

The prose-like approach to personal narrative throughout the album also serves the connection to late-1800s/early-1900s emerging blues, "negro spirituals," and country songs from Black artists of the era. While Beyoncé has drawn her life experiences plainly into her discography prior to Cowboy Carter, the styling of the album feels particularly attuned to imparting heartfelt, genuine lived experience.

In "Protector," Beyoncé soothes her children (in the song, Rumi's voice is sampled) with promises of protection, projection, and "Liftin' you up, so you will be raised." The content here reminded me, by contrast, of the well-loved blues anthem "(Sometimes I Feel Like A) Motherless Child" covered by icons like Sister Rosetta Tharpe, multi-hyphenate Paul Robeson, and folk-revivalist Odetta. While the singer of "Motherless Child" laments their lonesomeness, their isolation "a long ways from home," Cowboy Carter subverts this relationship and ensures that she will "lead you down that road if you lose your way." This points to another relationship between the album and its possible early blues-inspirations: "For things to stay the same, they need to change again."

Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter seeks to establish a new dialogue between Southern Black parent and child; husband and wife; community and individual. "Texas Hold 'Em" clarifies my point. Here, Beyoncé invites her muse to "lay your cards down," a phrase relevant to cardgames, yes, but one that's also used figuratively to indicate succumbing to vulnerability. In the pre-chorus after verse one she says, "I can't read your mind," indicating that while her partner may be connecting with her physically (on "the floor"), he still needs to "lay [his] cards down" so they can "work [their problems] in the middle," rather than side-stepping and dancing around them.

Her continual request to "pour some sugar on me," while immediately recognizable as a possible allegory of Def Leppard's "Pour Some Sugar On Me," the line reminds me more of "the Empress of Blues" Bessie Smith's "Need a Little Sugar in My Bowl." In the song, Bessie pleads for "some good man to tell my troubles to," -- laying her cards on the table. Interestingly, both Bessie Smith's "Need a Little Sugar," and Def Leppard's "Pour Some Sugar," carry a... frisky, let's say, subtext. I would be remiss to say that "Texas Hold 'Em," is entirely about breaking down emotional barriers between partners, without recognizing there's a lot of physical barriers Beyoncé tangles with as well. However, ultimately "Texas Hold 'Em" helps to elucidate that larger theme of the album: starting hard conversations among partners and families, and reasserting love and forgiveness above all.

The empassioned declarations of love and support -- to daughters, to husbands, to mothers and fathers -- are peppered throughout the album. "Bodyguard," "My Rose," "Alligator Tears," and "II Hands II Heaven," provide Beyoncé the platform to express these wishes singularly; while duets like "II Most Wanted" with Miley Cyrus more explicitly illustrate how important unhindered commitment in partnership is to Beyoncé. And, once again, these themes between romantic/sexual/lifelong partners mirrors much of the content of early blues, particularly (to me) the work of Sippie Wallace: the inspiration of blues/rock artist Bonnie Rait.

For instance, Sippie's biggest hit, "I'm a Mighty Tight Woman," recounts her wishes for a good man who will make her happy, "and I will make him happy too." She describes herself as a "jack of all trades," able to support her "pretty papa" in any wish or struggle -- mirroring some of the promises Beyoncé extends in "Bodyguard," for example. Much of Sippie's discography presents cynical (but wise, perhaps) views on marriage. Her song "Women Be Wise" advises married women, "don't advertise your man," as desperate women will come looking for him: a similar case as Cowboy Carter's "Jolene." Yet, once again, Beyoncé reaffirms her pledge of change by telling Jolene, "I'ma stand by him, he gon' stand by me." She doesn't relent to the "inevitability" of female competition, of unfaithfulness. She reaffirms wholeheartedly the trust in her partnership, and the value they add to one another. This is an evolution on Sippie's narrative, in which "Women Be Wise," ends with her own admission of guilt: "Lord honey, I just might sneek up and try to make him mine." Rather than committing to a partnership, she too moves on to the next.

I would be remiss to publish this review without addressing "Ya Ya." Here, Beyoncé partners with a soulful chorus to opine on American realities: sex, God, and shady insurance companies. The narrative retelling of these moments intercut with a toe-tapping "ya ya ya" chorus brought to mind lawyer, professional football player, activist, singer and actor (that's what I meant by multi-hyphenate) Paul Robeson. His famous rendition of "Joe Hill," details the 1914 murder of union organizer and communist Joe Hill. Parallel to the repetition of "ya-ya" and "la-la" through Cowboy Carter, Robeson returns again and again to Joe Hill's empowering response to questions of his death: "'I never died,' says he." And similar to Beyoncé's questioning of "workin' time and a half for half the pay," so too is "Joe Hill" questioning the working class: if your leader dies, does your cause die? Does your need for change die? No, "they organized." For this, Beyoncé prays "that he don't crash," but similarly, that her hardworking man "gotta keep the faith." Now -- "Ya Ya" is not a call to union organization and worker's empowerment as "Joe Hill," was. But, it's an important touchstone onto my earlier point: that Cowboy Carter is calling not only for changes within partnership and family, but larger communities and perhaps, American society at-large. To recognize the shared struggle, faith, and love of delicious cheesy grits that has always connected working-class Americans -- rather than superficial categories pre-determined by melanation -- despite a bloody "History that can't be erased."

I could unpack many, many more connections between Cowboy Carter and the blues genre, but I'll end on the poignant necessity of "Amen." Here, Beyoncé returns to the hook of "Ameriican Requiem,": Can you see her point? Can you hear her history? "Looker-there, looker there now," she croons in the opening track. "Have mercy on me," she belts at the close. "Amen," brings us visions of the present South; meticulously upkept plantation homes "built with blood and bone," though the homes of the enslaved Americans who built them have "crumbled." Civil War and Colonial-era monuments standing above struggling neighborhoods, beautifying the "lies of stone."

"For things to stay the same, they need to change again." For freedom to remain intact, to remain the foundation of "country," it must evolve to new heights, new communities, new dialogues. To "purify our Father's sins," requires not only a reckoning with the self, but a reckoning with the greater culture. It means not only shamelessly extending love and support to those closest to you, but recognizing the opportunities to spark love with those farthest from -- or most dissimilar to -- you.

Favorite Tracks:

"16 Carriages"

"Alligator Tears"

"Ya Ya"

What I’ve been jamming 1/9-1/15: modern grind, punk veterans, and sluggish metal

Instead of doing 10 songs per week, I’m just going to do however many I can based off my schedule and what’s been occupying my mind. I’ll eventually cross-post these to my website once that’s up and running, but for now, here it is!

NOFX - the Decline: 18 minutes may not be an eyebrow-raising song length for a heavy metal band, but for a hardcore punk band that has had as many ups and downs as the world’s most neck-whipping roller coaster, it’s easy to be skeptical that it won’t outstay its welcome, as many believe NOFX itself has. However, this 1999 single is easily NOFX’s magnum opus, and considering the band have finally announced their impending breakup, it both has and will never be topped in the 25 years since. What keeps this jaded anthem from growing stale and repetitive? Fat Mike’s stellar bass lines, a lack of their typical crude humor, and varied tempos and instrumentation that while never goes anywhere completely unexpected, is interesting enough to keep you on your toes. So long, NOFX, and thanks for the Decline.

Gatecreeper - Emptiness: The second longest song on this list, clocking in at a perfectly reasonable 11 minutes, Emptiness is the best doom metal song I’ve ever heard, and it’s not even from a doom metal band. Gatecreeper, hailing from the arid deserts of Arizona, has a reputation as one of the best modern old school death metal bands, but they weren’t content to have mastery of just one genre under their belt. Their 2021 surprise EP, An Unexpected Reality, starts with seven songs of blisteringly fast metal that isn’t quite death, isn’t quite thrash, and isn’t quite grind, but is undeniably catchy and brutal. But it’s Emptiness, the final track, that blew me away three years ago, and still blows me away today. It’s a slow, crushing track that’s saturated with dread and despair, building ever upwards over thick breakdowns and submerged melodies until finally spilling over to glorious catharsis, then fading back into those dreadful depths. It’s powerful stuff, and would have easily have been my song of the year, if there wasn’t competition from the absolute mad geniuses in Archspire and First Fragment.

Aaron West and The Roaring Twenties - In Lieu of Flowers: This song just dropped Friday, and I can’t get enough of it. It’s their first song in a fair while, and Soupy once again proves he’s the undisputed master of writing painfully earnest, heartfelt songs about healing. While their music is ostensibly about the fictional Aaron West and his road to recovery, there’s no denying the truth that it’s grounded in. I was initially surprised, then immediately blown away by the song’s fusion of emo and americana. It’s a triumphant return for one of the scene’s most iconic side projects, and I can’t wait for the rest of the album, especially since the entire thing was recorded with a 16-piece band according to the post they made announcing it. While their music is sonically different from The Wonder Years, veering more into folk rock territory than the mature pop punk they’re famous for, it’s absolutely required listening for fans.

Moonlight Sorcery - To Withhold the Day: Moonlight Sorcery are a band I recently discovered from a “best of 2023” list via BrooklynVegan, and I’m so glad I discovered them. They’re a Finnish black metal band, but this isn’t the lo-fi or harsh sound you’re expecting. They’re easily the most melodic and symphonic black metal band I’ve heard, and they effortlessly blend the discordant, chilling textures of the genre with a dark, catchy, and triumphant atmosphere that at times almost has a power metal bent. Their lyrics bounce back and forth between English and Finnish, and while they of course have the misanthropic and mythological elements found in most bands of this nature, they’re a bit tamer, and a bit more fantastical. Truly a band to keep your eye on, and one I’d recommend for metalheads that don’t particularly like black metal, as it just might change your mind.

Slugdge - Crop Killer: It would be easy to write Slugdge off as just another substanceless gimmick band by looking at the song titles alone, like “Lettuce Prey,” “The Sound of Mucus”, and “Slimewave Zero.” But you’d be sorely mistaken, and missing out on one of the most underrated metal bands of all time. They chose the name Slugdge as a joke after seeing so many sludge metal bands being themed around animals, and created a slug god complete with mythology and lore that they write all their songs around. But don’t be fooled, these guys are anything but unserious. They write haunting and cinematic metal that borrows elements from sludge (obviously), death, black, and progressive metal, and have a sound that’s not quite like anything else out there. Crop Killer is one of their best, who sets the mood right from the beginning with a nauseating 15/8 time signature and a tapped bass riff that’s meant to be disorienting. The mix of clean and harsh vocals really elevates it as well, and makes them stand out from the pack.

Full of Hell, Nothing - Rose Tinted World: I’m pretty sure I talked about the Full of Hell and Nothing grindcore/shoegaze collab a week or so ago, but I just have to bring up this song. The first half is a wall of distortion and beautiful fuzz that’s both punishing and melodic, before the second half takes you to an entirely different place. Radio hosts and weather reports slightly overlap each other as static rises in the background, before enveloping the listener entirely in a muddy mess of screeches and ambient noise. Truly must be heard to be believed, and if I ever did shrooms, I’m absolutely listening to this song on them.

Green Day - One-Eyed Bastard: I haven’t listened to much Green Day in recent years; the last record I ever listened to in full was 21st Century Breakdown, which I purchased at Hot Topic when I was, what, 13? It wasn’t a bad album, and had some great moments, but it was a far cry from their punkier days with albums like Dookie and Nimrod, and didn’t have the same spark that American Idiot had that made it an instant classic of a rock opera. None of the singles released from Uno/Dos/Tres or whatever came after really appealed to me, and I no longer had any interest in paying attention to what they were doing now, especially when I could always listen to their old stuff whenever I wanted. But I’m keeping my eye on this next record, because the singles have been surprisingly listenable, and One-Eyed Bastard is my favorite of the lot. They’re definitely no longer the kids who pelted their audience with mud at Woodstock, at least not sonically, but there’s plenty of value here, with a catchy riff and all the charm and rebellious spirit I’ve been missing from them. Only time will tell if this album earns a proud spot among their legacy, but I’m oddly optimistic.

That’s it! If you have any recommendations for me, or want to chat music in general, send me an ask and lemme know what’s on your mind!

Book Recommendations: Inspiring Biographies & Memoirs for International Women’s Day

All In by Billie Jean King 

In this spirited account, Billie Jean King details her life's journey to find her true self. She recounts her groundbreaking tennis career - six years as the top-ranked woman in the world, twenty Wimbledon championships, thirty-nine grand-slam titles, and her watershed defeat of Bobby Riggs in the famous "Battle of the Sexes." She poignantly recalls the cultural backdrop of those years and the profound impact on her worldview from the women's movement, the assassinations and anti-war protests of the 1960s, the civil rights movement, and, eventually, the LGBTQ+ rights movement.

She describes the myriad challenges she's hurdled - entrenched sexism, an eating disorder, near financial peril after being outed - on her path to publicly and unequivocally acknowledging her sexual identity at the age of fifty-one. She talks about how her life today remains one of indefatigable service. She offers insights and advice on leadership, business, activism, sports, politics, marriage equality, parenting, sexuality, and love. And she shows how living honestly and openly has had a transformative effect on her relationships and happiness.

Hers is the story of a pathbreaking feminist, a world-class athlete, and an indomitable spirit whose impact has transcended even her spectacular achievements in sports.

First by Evan Thomas

She was born in 1930 in El Paso and grew up on a cattle ranch in Arizona. At a time when women were expected to be homemakers, she set her sights on Stanford University. When she graduated near the top of her law school class in 1952, no firm would even interview her. But Sandra Day O'Connor's story is that of a woman who repeatedly shattered glass ceilings - doing so with a blend of grace, wisdom, humor, understatement, and cowgirl toughness.

She became the first ever female majority leader of a state senate. As a judge on the Arizona Court of Appeals, she stood up to corrupt lawyers and humanized the law. When she arrived at the United States Supreme Court, appointed by President Ronald Reagan in 1981, she began a quarter-century tenure on the Court, hearing cases that ultimately shaped American law. Diagnosed with cancer at fifty-eight, and caring for a husband with Alzheimer's, O'Connor endured every difficulty with grit and poise.

Women and men who want to be leaders and be first in their own lives - who want to learn when to walk away and when to stand their ground - will be inspired by O'Connor's example. This is a remarkably vivid and personal portrait of a woman who loved her family, who believed in serving her country, and who, when she became the most powerful woman in America, built a bridge forward for all women.

Becoming by Michelle Obama 

In a life filled with meaning and accomplishment, Michelle Obama has emerged as one of the most iconic and compelling women of our era. As First Lady of the United States of America - the first African American to serve in that role - she helped create the most welcoming and inclusive White House in history, while also establishing herself as a powerful advocate for women and girls in the U.S. and around the world, dramatically changing the ways that families pursue healthier and more active lives, and standing with her husband as he led America through some of its most harrowing moments. Along the way, she showed us a few dance moves, crushed Carpool Karaoke, and raised two down-to-earth daughters under an unforgiving media glare.

In her memoir, a work of deep reflection and mesmerizing storytelling, Michelle Obama invites readers into her world, chronicling the experiences that have shaped her - from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years as an executive balancing the demands of motherhood and work, to her time spent at the world’s most famous address. With unerring honesty and lively wit, she describes her triumphs and her disappointments, both public and private, telling her full story as she has lived it - in her own words and on her own terms. Warm, wise, and revelatory, Becoming is the deeply personal reckoning of a woman of soul and substance who has steadily defied expectations - and whose story inspires us to do the same.

I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai

When the Taliban took control of the Swat Valley in Pakistan, one girl spoke out. Malala Yousafzai refused to be silenced and fought for her right to an education.

On Tuesday, October 9, 2012, when she was fifteen, she almost paid the ultimate price. She was shot in the head at point-blank range while riding the bus home from school, and few expected her to survive.

Instead, Malala's miraculous recovery has taken her on an extraordinary journey from a remote valley in northern Pakistan to the halls of the United Nations in New York. At sixteen, she has become a global symbol of peaceful protest and the youngest nominee ever for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Raise a Glass to Arizona's Spirit with Our Tall Shot Glasses! 🥃

Eyeconic Arizona Souvenir Shop presents iconic Tall Shot Glasses celebrating the state's rugged beauty. 🏜️

Adorned with desert landscapes and vibrant cacti, each sip transports you to the Wild West. 🤠

Toast unforgettable memories or add Southwestern flair to your bar with these must-have glasses. Envy-inducing tales await as you sip from Arizona's captivating charm. 🌵

Visit 1745 E McDowell Rd for a true embodiment of the state's enduring spirit. Raise a glass and let the adventure begin! 🌇

#phoenix#arizona#shotglass

Discovering Page, Arizona on Guided UTV Expeditions

Located amidst the stunning scenery of Page, Arizona, Epic Adventure Rides invites adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers to embark on an unforgettable journey through the region's challenging terrain. Specializing in guided UTV tours in Page AZ, Epic Adventure Rides provides a unique and thrilling way to explore the wonders of this picturesque destination.

Epic Adventure Rides takes pride in offering an immersive and secure experience for thrill-seekers of all levels. Whether you're an experienced off-road aficionado or a first-time explorer, their guided UTV tours promise an unparalleled blend of excitement and natural beauty. Visitors get to traverse the iconic crimson rocks, meandering trails, and hidden treasures that define the captivating landscape of Page.

As the engines roar and the UTVs raise a trail of dust, participants find themselves absorbed in the core of Arizona's exceptional beauty. The knowledgeable and seasoned guides at Epic Adventure Rides not only ensure a thrilling ride but also share insights into the area. It's more than just an exhilarating adventure; it's a journey through the pages of Page's natural chronicle.

Safety remains paramount at Epic Adventure Rides, and their cutting-edge UTVs are meticulously maintained to ensure a smooth and secure expedition. The guides are certified experts, well-versed in the intricacies of off-road navigation, and committed to ensuring that every participant has a memorable and secure experience.

For those in search of an extraordinary escapade into the untamed beauty of Page, Arizona, Epic Adventure Rides' guided UTV expeditions are the passageway to an immersive and exciting adventure. Come and uncover the wild allure of the desert landscape, where each twist and turn unveils a new chapter in the tale of Page's extraordinary scenery. Reserve your Epic Adventure Ride today and let the exploration commence! For further information about their guided UTV tours in Page AZ, check out www.epicadventurerides.com. 

Lollygagger Vintage Sweatshirt, Shirt

Step into the world of cinematic nostalgia with the Lollygagger Vintage Sweatshirt. This sweatshirt is not just clothing; it's a homage to the late Trey Wilson and his iconic role as the poolside enthusiast Delbert in the film "Raising Arizona." The vintage-inspired design captures the retro charm of the movie and adds a touch of cinematic history to your wardrobe.

Crafted from cozy and warm fabric, this sweatshirt is perfect for film enthusiasts who want to showcase their love for classic characters. Whether you're a fan of "Raising Arizona," appreciate vintage cinema, or simply want a unique and stylish sweatshirt, the Trey Wilson Lollygagger Vintage Sweatshirt is a timeless and nostalgic choice. Wear it with pride, share your love for cinematic gems, and let this sweatshirt be a standout piece in your collection.

LOS ANGELES, CA.- The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) announced the appointment of Britt Salvesen as the new Department Head and Curator of the Wallis Annenberg Department of Photography, and the Department Head and Curator of Prints and Drawings. Ms. Salvesen previously served as Director and Chief Curator at the Center for Creative Photography, University of Arizona, Tucson.

LACMA CEO and Wallis Annenberg Director Michael Govan states, “I am thrilled to welcome Britt to LACMA. Both our Photography and Prints and Drawings departments boast robust collections and programming, and I look forward to seeing Britt bring her energy and enthusiasm to each. After the recent historic acquisition of the Vernon photography collection, I’d like to continue to raise the profile of photography, drawings, and prints. Britt has unique talent and experience to lead the design of a new photography, print, and drawing storage and exhibition space for LACMA West in the coming years.”

LACMA’s plan is not to combine the departments of Photography and Prints and Drawings but to employ Ms. Salvesen’s expertise to create the next phase of building storage as well as classroom space to vastly enhance the public’s access to the museum’s collections. In addition, the museum has long-range plans to hire a specialist in pre-nineteenth-century prints and drawings at the associate curator level to round out the know-how already in place with the museum’s associate curators Edward Robinson (Photography) and Leslie Jones (Prints and Drawings).

Ms. Salvesen’s proficiency and zeal for photography are evidenced by an impressive body of exhibitions that have ranged from contemporary monographic shows highlighting the work of iconic photographers Harry Callahan, Lee Friedlander, Garry Winogrand, and Danny Lyon to broader exhibitions including Boxed Sets: Portfolios of the Seventies and New Topographics, an exhibition with nine international venues and which will open at LACMA on October 25.

Ms. Salvesen received her undergraduate degree in Spanish and art history from Trinity University, San Antonio, TX, where she was elected to Phi Beta Kappa before earning her masters degree from the Courtauld Institute of Art, London, in art history. She went on to earn a PhD in art history from the University of Chicago, specializing in nineteenth-century modern art.

She worked for the Art Institute of Chicago for nine years in the Publications Department as the Associate Editor of Scholarly Publications before becoming the Associate Curator of Prints, Drawings, and Photographs at the Milwaukee Art Museum in 2003.

In 2004 Ms. Salvesen became a curator at the Center for Creative Photography at the University of Arizona, where she curated a collection of over 80,000 prints and 3.8 million archive items. During her time at the university she was named a Center for Curatorial Leadership Fellow, 2009, and awarded a Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Center Residency, 2008, and a Getty Curatorial Research Fellowship, 2007.

Britt Salvesen will join the LACMA staff in mid-October 2009.

Noah Beck

Noah Beck Age, Height, Net Worth, Wiki, Biography, Family and Girlfriend

Noah Beck is a well-known American social media influencer and TikTok sensation. He gained fame for his creative and entertaining content on TikTok. Let’s explore Noah Beck’s life and career, covering his age, height, biography, family, career, net worth and relationships.

Noah Beck Biography/Wiki

Noah Beck was born on May 4, 2001 in Peoria, Arizona, is a well-known TikTok personality from the United States. He was a midfielder for the Portland Pilots men’s soccer club in 2019. Beck is well-known for his work as a Fashion and Fitness influencer on social media, where he rose to fame at a young age. His funny TikTok content has won him a desired badge, and he is also known as a “muser.”

Beck had 33.8 million TikTok followers, 8.5 million Instagram followers and over 1.53 million YouTube subscribers as of October 2023. He was also designated one of TikTok’s ‘Top 10 Breakout TikTok Creators‘ in 2020.

Early Life and Passion for Football

Beck’s fascination with soccer ignited during his school days at Ironwood High School. His dedication led him to play for the SC del Sol club football team in Phoenix. From 2014 to 2017, he proudly served as a team captain in the U.S. Youth Football Olympic Development Program. During his final two high school years, he made a pivotal move to Utah and joined the Real Salt Lake Academy.

In 2019, Beck pursued higher education at the University of Portland, earning a soccer scholarship. As a midfielder for the Portland Pilots men’s soccer team, he showcased his talent in the U-19 category before unforeseen circumstances related to the COVID-19 pandemic led to a change in his academic plans.

Career

Noah Beck’s rise in social media began in 2020, when he began posting on TikTok. His content connected with viewers, and he soon grew to over 10 million followers in a matter of weeks.

In June 2020, Beck joined ‘The Sway House,’ a group of social media influencers that includes Bryce Hall and Josh Richards. Initially engaging with its members, he finally left to pursue his own creative projects.

Beck underwent a transformation in 2020, which was characterized by both his tremendous social media growth and his participation in the NCAA Division 1 playoffs. It was also a year that generated controversy when he started charging fans for duets, which he later justified as a way to obtain brand deals.

His journey expanded beyond TikTok. In 2021, he ventured into acting, taking on the lead role in the AwesomenessTV web series ‘Noah Beck Tries Things.’ His charismatic presence also caught the attention of the fashion world.

In March 2021, he graced the digital cover of VMan, garnering comparisons to style icons like David Bowie, Prince and Harry Styles. His association with high-end brands, including Louis Vuitton, further solidified his presence in the fashion industry.

Beck also appeared in Machine Gun Kelly’s Love Race music video from 2021.

Beck joined with the Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in 2022, proving his dedication to multiple achievement.

He also fulfilled his passion for soccer by taking part in the Soccer Aid World XI 2022 charity event. Fans demanded that Beck be signed by English teams like Manchester United as a result of his league play.

When Beck participated in the Sidemen Charity match in September 2022, he demonstrated his charitable nature by helping to raise more than £1,000,000 for a variety of charitable organisations.

Communication: Your 🧠 On Emoji. It's Complicated. And That's Good.

— By Alla Katsnelson | Nautilus

Image: eztexting

Twenty years ago, Microsoft’s instant messaging platform added a new feature: dozens of little icons users could drop into their messages, conveying happiness, surprise, confusion, or a sheep. Gradually, then all at once, emojis were here: spreading from chat platforms to SMS, email, social media, and—to the chagrin of legions of teachers—even infecting school assignments.

For years, I was an emoji hold-out. Embracing the little, cartoonish images felt like transgressing against the virtue of words. To my linguistically traditional soul, raised on Jane Austen and Isaac Babel, emojis seemed cheap and unnecessarily revealing. I resented their creep into written communication, which had long managed just fine, thank you very much, with the alphabet.

But just a few years ago, after befriending a colleague whose texts were flecked with these symbols, I had a change of heart. Our daily banter thrived on the emotional zest that emojis added, and on the sense of connection they fueled. Timidly at first, I started to thread them into my digital discourse. Now they’re woven into my communication with many people in my life, punctuating a short note or standing alone as a single message, a 💥 or 🔥 or 🌟 as a full-stop reply. What’s surprised me most is the palpable joy these flutters of icon-based interaction have added to routine exchanges.

The Effect is Like a Shot of Meaning-Making Caffeine—Pure Emotional Charge.

Valeria Pfeifer is a cognitive scientist at the University of Arizona. She is one of a small group of researchers who has studied how emojis affect our thinking. She tells me that my newfound joy makes sense. Emojis “convey this additional complex layer of meaning that words just don’t really seem to get at,” she says. Many a word nerd has fretted that emojis are making us—and our communication—dumber. But Pfeifer and other cognitive scientists and linguists are beginning to explain what makes them special.

In a book called The Emoji Code, British cognitive linguist Vyvyan Evans describes emojis as “incontrovertibly the world’s first truly universal communication.” That might seem like a tall claim for an ever-expanding set of symbols whose meanings can be fickle. But language evolves, and these ideograms have become the lingua franca of digital communication.

The story of the emoji reaches back further than early instant messaging programs. Before these graphically detailed icons were easy to display, the clunkier, character-constructed emoticon held their place.

Carnegie Mellon computer scientist Scott Fahlman is often credited with codifying these smile-and-wink punctuation constructions. After watching posters in early online bulletin boards get into skirmishes—say, when a poster’s sarcasm was misread—he suggested in 1982 that colleagues add a ":-)" or ":-(" to indicate their tone. If posters could flag when they were being funny or sarcastic, he figured, readers wouldn’t be so easily upset.

Writers and thinkers had, for decades, proposed subbing in punctuation for feelings, though many, it seems, did so in tongue-in-cheek jest. Other early potential emoticons in the wild—such as a ";)" in a transcript note describing audience reactions of “applause and laughter” during an 1862 speech by Abraham Lincoln—were likely typesetting errors or examples of looser punctuation norms of the day.

The interface of language and emotion is where the magic lies.

None of these uses took root though until the fertile conditions of the early internet arrived. And as graphical interfaces improved, the contemporary emoji was born.

The emoji didn’t initially set out to be a souped-up emoticon. When, in 1999, Japanese artist Shigetaka Kurita developed a first suite of 176 of them for the cell phone company he was working for, most weren’t meant to convey a feeling at all. The majority of them were quotidian symbols he envisioned people would toss in occasionally in place of words: a house, an ear, a tennis racket, a fax sign.

It wasn’t until 2011, when Apple first made emojis accessible through a dedicated emoji keyboard on their mobile devices (and Android did the same two years later) that emojis truly started going mainstream. By 2015, more than 90 percent of internet users had deployed them, and the Oxford English Dictionary named 😂 Word of the Year. Today, the Unicode Consortium, emojis’ governing body, as it were, lists more than 3,500 of them.

The word emoji itself has nothing to do, etymologically, with emoting. It’s a blend of the Japanese words for picture (e) and character (moji)—unlike emoticon, which is an American mix of emotion and icon. This difference in origin and intention also inflected early scientific research into these new communication tools and their impact on the people using them.

Perhaps the first study of how these visual representations activate the brain was presented at a conference in 2006. Computer scientist Masahide Yuasa, then at Tokyo Denki University in Japan, and his colleagues wanted to see whether our noggins interpret abstract symbolic representations of faces—emoticons made of punctuation marks—in the same way as photographic images of them. They popped several college students into a brain scanning machine (they used functional magnetic resonance imaging, or fMRI) and showed them realistic images of happy and sad faces, as well as scrambled versions of these pictures. They also showed them happy and sad emoticons, along with short random collections of punctuation.

The photos lit up a brain region associated with faces. The emoticons didn’t. But they did activate a different area thought to be involved in deciding whether something is emotionally negative or positive. The group’s later work, published in 2011, extended this finding, reporting that emoticons at the end of a sentence made verbal and nonverbal areas of the brain respond more enthusiastically to written text. “Just as prosody enriches vocal expressions,” the researchers wrote in their earlier paper, the emoticons seemed to be layering on more meaning and impact. The effect is like a shot of meaning-making caffeine—pure emotional charge.

It was surprising that these punctuation faces carried their emotional valence to the reader’s psyche without first being recognized as abstract faces. Back then, many researchers assumed people first pieced together the line-and-dot faces and then inferred their expression “as a bottom-up process,” Yuasa explained to me via email. But the results suggested that the emoticons were plugging into something more foundational even than face-recognition—hinting that responding to emotion in communication is a primal, even deeper drive.

A few years later, researchers in Australia reported that people were much quicker to grok smiley face emoticons ":-)" as faces than when the same symbols were typed backward: ")-:" For the lead researcher, Owen Churches, the results pointed to our brains’ amazing ability to adapt to a quickly changing world. “There is no innate neural response to emoticons that babies are born with,” he told ABC Australia. “This is an entirely culturally created neural response.”

Once the visually richer emojis proliferated, scientists had even more concepts they could interrogate to discern the real-time integration with language, communication, and feeling. And the research quickly became intriguingly nuanced. To wit: Do emojis and words have similar functions when attempting to convey irony? Irony in its most basic form is expressing the opposite of what you mean, to make a point. The incongruity it conveys is so cognitively satisfying precisely because of the layers of drama and meaning it adds to language.

Benjamin Weissman and Darren Tanner at the University of Illinois recorded patterns of brain activity as participants read simple sentences ending with different face emojis—one that aligned with the meaning of a sentence, one that diverged, and one of a wink-face emoji clearly signaling irony.

Comparing their findings to previous research on how the brain responds to ironic language, they reported—in their 2018 cheekily titled paper, “A strong wink between verbal and emoji-based irony”—that, as far as the brain is concerned, emojis and words do roughly the same job.

“There’s basically a match,” says Weissman, a cognitive scientist now at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. “As long as there is some sort of irony conveyed and interpreted, the brain response looks pretty similar to the brain response for traditional non-emoji irony.” That finding aligns with more recent, still-unpublished work Weissman did with cognitive scientist Neil Cohn at Tilburg University in the Netherlands. There, they probed how the brain responds to reading sentences in which either a word or an emoji matched the expected meaning or had an unexpected meaning:

Here, too, the brain responded to the emojis pretty similarly as to the words, with the expected ones eliciting a brain activity pattern associated with linguistic prediction, and the surprise ones yielding activity associated with processing mismatched meaning.

In a way, Weissman says, it doesn’t really matter whether we are calling to mind a concept from a word or an icon. On the whole, for higher-level cognition in which the brain is making complex meaning from inputs it receives, it can integrate all sorts of elements, including facial expressions and tone of voice, he says. And emojis are just another type of this input. “The meaning-making process can probably operate on a level independent of the modality itself,” he says.

But of course, anyone who has wielded emojis knows they are doing something more than just colorfully, jauntily standing in for words. Like their 41-year-old cousins, the emoticons, they are doing heavier lifting, too. Their ability to convey emotion does a complex dance with language. For Pfeifer, this interface is where their magic lies.

“Emojis have this ability to make the same words seem more emotional or less emotional—to seem alarming versus completely fine or joking even,” she says. These are important social functions, she adds. “Through our switch to using a more text-based communication we lost this additional layer of meaning that emojis can now provide.”

Our species and our many spoken languages emerged in the frothy cauldron of in-person communication, steeped in tone of voice, volume, facial expressions, gestures, posture, knowing glances. Even as writing forms began to emerge, such as cuneiform more than 5,000 years ago, for the majority of history their use remained largely official—government, business, religious. Interpersonal, social, cohering communication was still in-person, and often by necessity; as recently as 1960, less than half of the global population could read and write, and even in Austen’s era of the seemingly ubiquitous romantic epistle, only about half of English people older than 14 years could have penned or read a letter.

Positive Emojis Say, ‘Hey, I’m Listening.’ Negative Ones Have a Very Different Effect.

But as we stepped into the brave new digital world, the written word has taken over much of daily social and collegial correspondence. Texts and direct messages rather than social calls or phone calls. And work meetings or calls now often transmuted into dashed-off lines of keystrokes on Slack or Microsoft’s Teams.

As they say, nature abhors a vacuum, and emojis seem to have arrived at a time when a new communication niche needed filling. “The way we communicated when we all started texting or emailing seemed to be deprived of something that emojis seem to fill,” Pfeifer says.

She and her colleagues were also interested in the ways in which different emotion-evoking emojis impact social dynamics in their coloring of written statements. They found that happy emojis, such as hearts and smiling faces, added a general emotionally positive boost to a message, though not in any terribly specific capacity. Instead, these pictorial cues served more as bids of connection.

“Positive emojis are like a blinking light on a recording device,” she says. “Maybe we send this type of emoji to say, ‘hey, I’m listening,’ or ‘I’m interested in what you’re saying’—just as a way to confirm the social relationship between us,” she says. These sorts of emojis seem to be fostering social cohesion.

Negative emojis, on the other hand, affected words and interpretation differently. Recipients in their study read frowns, angry faces, and tears as indicators of a much more specific mental state, and they processed these symbols much more carefully and more in-depth, Pfeiffer says. “It is a lot more revealing from the sender’s perspective to send a negative emoji than a positive one.” And while positivity serves as a social cement holding us together—even, it appears, in emoji form—negative sentiments require plumbing the depths of a relationship or of a shared understanding to clarify their intent. And just as when we’re engaging in-person, they are more likely to spur miscommunication.

Emojis are also filling other social gaps born from our shift to a digital lifestyle. In her work, Linda Kaye, a psychologist at Edge Hill University in Ormskirk, England who is writing a book that synthesizes emoji research, has explored how these ubiquitous icons can reveal valuable clues to a person’s personality.

Interactions through social media platforms are often assumed to be opaque—and they do lack many markers that humans rely on to understand and make accurate judgements about each other. Kaye decided to test whether the way people use emojis online might help others get to know what they’re like. She and her colleagues asked a group of people with a presence on Facebook to complete a written personality questionnaire, and then they had another group look at screenshots of their profiles.

Looking at five major dimensions of personality, they found that the kinds of emojis people used in their profiles helped viewers assess two of them—open-mindedness and extraversion—with reasonably good accuracy. And while extraversion is pretty easy to judge in person, open-mindedness can be tough to gauge. “That tells us that when we are forming first impressions, actually online sometimes might give us more behavior to help us understand open-mindedness than offline targets,” Kaye says.

It turns out that a world freshly speckled with 🙂s is not really such a changed world after all. Nor as flat of a one as many might assume. “Ultimately, communication—the purpose of it and the way we do it—inherently doesn’t change all that much,” Kaye explains. “I would say it’s more about expanding our range.”

To me, as I continue on my newly emoji-strewn path, that’s an inspiring thought because it suggests we don’t need to poopoo such novel concoctions but can see them as a triumph of the dazzling adaptability of the human brain. And I will seek delight in the fact that our species can not only access conceptual and emotional language so rich as to craft resonant works of literature like Moby Dick—but also can crowd-source a full translation of it into emojis: 🐳.

Emma Stone: Unveiling the Journey of a Hollywood Star

Introduction

In the glitzy world of Hollywood, where dreams are woven into reality, Emma Stone stands as a beacon of talent, charm, and versatility. With her captivating performances and radiant presence on screen, she has managed to carve a special place in the hearts of moviegoers worldwide. From her humble beginnings to her rise to stardom, this article delves into the fascinating journey of Emma Stone, exploring her career milestones, personal life, and the impact she has had on the entertainment industry.

The Early Years: A Star in the Making

A Glimpse into Emma's Childhood

Emma Stone, born Emily Jean Stone on November 6, 1988, in Scottsdale, Arizona, exhibited an early passion for acting. Raised in a loving and supportive family, Emma's parents recognized her natural flair for the arts and enrolled her in acting classes at a young age. This nurturing environment laid the foundation for her future success.

From Emily to Emma: Navigating Hollywood's Challenges

As young Emily Stone transitioned into the world of showbiz, she faced the common hurdles that aspiring actors encounter. The need to stand out in auditions, the pursuit of meaningful roles, and the patience required in an industry notorious for its unpredictability – Emma embraced these challenges with determination.

Breakthrough Moments: Rising to Prominence

Superbad: A Breakthrough Debut

Emma Stone's breakthrough came in 2007 with her role as Jules in the comedy hit "Superbad." Her witty performance and undeniable on-screen charisma caught the attention of both critics and audiences, setting the stage for her ascent in Hollywood.

Shining as a Leading Lady

In the subsequent years, Emma continued to captivate audiences with memorable performances in films such as "Easy A," "Crazy, Stupid, Love," and "The Help." Her ability to seamlessly transition between comedic and dramatic roles showcased her versatility and earned her critical acclaim.

The Oscar Win: A Culmination of Excellence

La La Land: A Musical Triumph

The pinnacle of Emma Stone's career arrived with her role as Mia in the 2016 musical "La La Land." Her mesmerizing portrayal of a struggling actress pursuing her dreams in Los Angeles earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress. This momentous achievement solidified her status as one of Hollywood's brightest stars.

Beyond the Silver Screen: Emma's Advocacy and Impact

Using Fame for Good: Emma's Philanthropic Efforts

Emma Stone's influence extends beyond her acting prowess. She actively supports various charitable causes, advocating for gender equality, mental health awareness, and environmental conservation. Her dedication to making a positive impact has inspired many of her fans to engage in meaningful social change.

Redefining Beauty Standards

Emma's unapologetic embrace of her unique features and her refusal to conform to conventional beauty standards have made her a role model for self-acceptance. By showcasing her authentic self, she encourages others to celebrate their individuality and embrace their imperfections.

Conclusion

Emma Stone's journey from a young aspiring actress to a beloved Hollywood icon is a testament to her unwavering dedication, undeniable talent, and remarkable authenticity. With each role she undertakes, she continues to captivate audiences and leave an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. As we celebrate her achievements, let us also draw inspiration from her commitment to making the world a better place.

FAQs About Emma Stone

What is Emma Stone's birth name? Emma Stone was born Emily Jean Stone.

In which film did Emma Stone win an Academy Award? Emma Stone won an Academy Award for her role in "La La Land."

What causes does Emma Stone advocate for? Emma Stone is a vocal advocate for gender equality, mental health awareness, and environmental conservation.

Has Emma Stone appeared in both comedic and dramatic roles? Yes, Emma Stone has demonstrated her versatility by excelling in both comedic and dramatic performances.

What impact has Emma Stone had on beauty standards? Emma Stone's refusal to conform to conventional beauty standards has inspired many to embrace their individuality and redefine notions of beauty.

From Vaqueros to Cowboys: Unveiling the Evolution of Western Tack and Riding Gear

At Showtime Awards, our horse and rider tack evolved from the spirit of the Old West.    We offer both the cutting edge and the vintage in our authentically designed western trophy buckles, bits and bridle silver, spurs and saddle pads.   That means our inspiration is the American cowboy.

The American cowboy draws much of his history -- especially his history with horses -- from a long line of explorers from Spain who cross pollinated with Mexican culture beginning around 1519.   

Shortly after the Spanish arrived in the Americas, they began to build ranches to raise cattle and other livestock.   Horses were imported from Spain and put to work on the ranches.    Mexico’s native cowboys were called vaqueros, which comes from the Spanish word vaca (cow). Vaqueros were hired by ranchers to tend to the livestock and were known for their superior roping, riding and herding skills.

Charros were originally land, horse, and cattle owners who had a high social and economic status. They would meet during ceremonies and festivals and demonstrate their skills through several varieties of rodeo games called charrería.  Charros and charrería remain important parts of Mexican traditional culture. During these festive events which were early horse shows, charros could display splendidly decorated horse tack and spurs.

By the early 1700s, ranching made its way to present-day Texas, New Mexico, Arizona. When the California missions started in 1769, livestock practices were introduced to more areas in the West.  Though they originated in Mexico, American cowboys created a style and reputation all their own. Throughout history, their iconic lifestyle has been glamorized in countless books, movies and television shows—but the rough, lonely and sometimes grueling work of a cowboy wasn’t for the faint of heart or the weak of body.

Even though the cowboy’s role began to decline in the 1920s, Hollywood movies popularized the cowboy lifestyle with Westerns from the 1920s to the 1940s. These films featured stars like John Wayne, Buck Jones and Gene Autry. American audiences tuned in to see the fictional adventures of the Lone Ranger and Tonto, Will Kane in “High Noon” and “Hopalong Cassidy” on screen. Comic book fans could read about The Black Rider and Kid Colt.

They typically wore large hats with wide brims to protect them from the sun, boots to help them ride horses and bandanas to guard them from dust. Some wore chaps on the outsides of their trousers to protect their legs from sharp cactus needles and rocky terrain.

Everyday work was difficult and laborious for cowboys. Workdays often lasted 15 hours, and much of that time was spent on a horse or doing other physical labor but they still looked for ways to recreate.

The first American horse events involved cowboys testing their skills against one another by performing in rodeos—competitions that were based on the daily tasks of a cowboy.  Rodeo activities included bull riding, calf roping, steer wrestling, bareback bronc riding and barrel racing -- events that they still include today.  The first professional rodeo was held in Prescott, Arizona, in 1888. Since then, rodeos became—and continue to be—popular entertainment events in the United States, Mexico and elsewhere.  The trophy buckle was imported from Mexico as a way to commemorate special feats of horsemanship.

Cowboys were always looking for better equipment to give themselves an advantage in their daily work and the competitions that would spring up.  Many spent their spare time tooling better pieces of gear for their trade.    They designed new bits and bridles, spurs and boots, chaps and saddle pads to make their work easier and more efficient.

For example, the snaffle bit is the oldest style bit recorded in history, originally used on war horses and pulling horses.  It was first seen in the American West in Nevada.  At the Showtime Awards, we designed an O-RING SNAFFLE BIT that has a break in the center and when put in the horse's mouth, bends to a V-shape.    In addition to being a beautiful bit, it is a humane training bit.  Picking up one side of the bit with the rein is the best method for the rider to teach the horse to soften in the poll area and bend his body. 

Our handsome CORRECTION BIT which descends from the Spanish spade bit  is for use on horses with more advanced training.  These bits took their inspiration are designed for lighter contact with the horse's mouth than the snaffle bit.

Showtime Awards will also design custom bridle and spur silver for your needs.   We have stock designed silver too for bridles and spur straps.

Today the ornate Spanish and Mexican style spurs have been streamlined into a more useful modern version.  Spurs are a very useful aid for cueing the horse with minimal leg or boot pressure.  At Showtime Awards we offer 3 styles with heel bands that can be bent to stay securely on every style of cowboy boot.   The shanks of the CUTTER SPUR angle upward so the rider can easily raise his leg and rub the rowel on the horse's side or lower his leg and rub it on the horse's belly.   The shank on the REINER SPURS is straighter so that the rider can accurately touch a spot on the horse's side by reaching his leg lower or back on the horse's flank.   The ROPER SPURS are designed for ropers and barrel racers to encourage their horses to move forward. 

Our STIRRUPS are heavy duty aluminum designed to keep a rider's feet down and in place so he can do fast events like reining or slow ones like Western Pleasure.

Saddle pads in the Old West were to protect the horse's back from saddle rubs.   Today, our SADDLE BLANKETS still fill that need but have become part of the horse and rider's ensemble at horse shows too.   Our saddle pads all have wear leathers and come in two types.  Our patterned pads have rotary engraved plates and our solid-colored pads have beautiful custom plates created by our silversmiths.

No matter what Western riding event you compete in we've got you covered with handsome, well designed, affordable riding gear.