December 2022: The Great Outdoors Issue

THE GREAT OUTDOORS ISSUE

THE POWER OF FOURS

PHOTOS

BY HADLEY FAIN & TATI ALSTON

BY AMY SZMIK

BY JOSH ZIELINSKI & CORRIN SWITZER

HAUTE ONLINE

Looking for a new internet obssession? Whether you want to listen to podcasts or watch some videos, we’ve got you covered virtually.

REMAKE OUR WORLD

Remake Our World is a nonprofit global advocacy organization fighting for fair pay and climate justice in the clothing industry. I first found out about this organization on Instagram where it raises awareness about fast fashion brands and their detriment to society. The organization creates advocacy campaigns to get people involved and educated about real time problems in the fashion industry. Two current campaigns are The FABRIC Act and International Accord. In

these campaigns, Remake encourages people to sign the petition, call congress, tweet about it, and donate. I encourage people to follow Remake Our World on its online platforms as its information about the fashion industry is current and beneficial in making a difference in this fast fashion problem.

- SAMANTHA KRUSE

PHOTO CREDIT: REMAKE OUR WORLD

“My Mind and Me” is a recent documentary release surrounding Selena Gomez and her struggles with mental health, her battle with lupus, her struggle with fame, and her diagnosis with bipolar disorder. This documentary started filming in 2016 for what was originally supposed to be a tour movie for her tour in support of her 2016 album release, “Revival.” This took a turn when she was diagnosed with lupus and a bipolar disorder, which took a heavy toll on her mental and physical health. The tour had to be canceled after 55 shows. Aside from shedding light on her struggles, the documentary also shows Gomez reconnecting with the places and people she grew up with. The documentary also lets viewers in on her trip to Kenya where she visited the WE college, which she does charity for and speaks

to young women about the struggles they have had and gets to connect with the people there. The documentary also walks viewers through her most recent album release, “Rare,” which came out in 2020 right before the global pandemic. Gomez reads journal entries from her personal diary throughout the film which lets viewers in on her mind and growth throughout the years. She wants people to know that they are not alone in whatever they are struggling with and hopes that if she is open and honest about her struggles then she can help others feel seen and heard. “My Mind and Me” is a breathtaking and honest look into the life of a household name and definitely deserves your attention.

- HUNTER GIBSON

PHOTO CREDIT: ROTTEN TOMATOES

Montego Air Flight 828 landed safely after a few hours in the air, but the passengers and crew soon discovered the world had aged five years without them. For five years, families and friends presumed passengers dead and mourned their loss of them, but now they are back without any explanation with a second chance. The passengers are not the same as before they stepped onto flight 828. They soon start to hear voices and have visions called “callings” of events yet to occur that help them solve crimes and figure out where they were for those five long years. This is a brief synopsis

of the show titled “Manifest,” written by Jeff Rake. The first three seasons aired on NBC, but the show was canceled in June 2021. Shortly before the cancellation, however, the show was added to Netflix and topped the viewing charts, causing Netflix to renew “Manifest” for a fourth and final season. Part one of season four premiered on Nov. 4, 2022, and the release of part two is still to be announced, although there has been some speculation among avid viewers.

- CARMEN SZUKAITIS

PHOTO CREDIT: IMBD

From the cutest thrifted outfits to the most horrific hinge date stories, @ebcjpg on TikTok, aka Lily, has earned herself the title of queen in my books. I first started following her back in 2021 when she attended Paris fashion week and was featured on Vogue’s “Best Dressed” list. However, her “GRWM,” upcycling videos, and her infectious personality has made me a devoted follower for life. Lily is not afraid to tell it how it is, and she breezes right by the hate she may get. She is a confident young woman who is secure in being who she is, and I believe that a lot of young women can look to her for inspiration. Some of my favorite

videos by her involve her being invited to a lastminute event. She will quickly either upcycle old clothing into a cute outfit or put together an outfit using distinct pieces. She has even inspired me to craft some of my own outfits at the last minute before a night out with friends. Do not even get me started on Lily’s dating life as it is a little too relatable. I think everyone can say they have been on a bad dating app date (or maybe more than just one). If you have not heard of Lily before, make sure to check her out at @ebcjpg on TikTok and @ebcjpg2 on Instagram.

@EBCJPG

PHOTO CREDIT: @EBCJPG

Find out the top five things that our exec board is inspired by right now.

I know, I know. Networking sounds incredibly boring to the average person. I am a huge advocate for networking and building connections with people in the professional world. One of the organizations I am a part of on campus planned and executed a networking trip to New York City in the beginning of November. After an eight hour drive, we spent a day with CBS Mornings, Rolling Stone Magazine , Pier59 Studios, Wall Street Journal, and Jodi Jones Studio. While the trip was exhausting, it was also exhilarating. The idea of getting an inside scoop as to what a career in your field in New York City would be like was very inspiring and motivating. Not only will I now be able to keep in contact with big names in the city to help me succeed in the future, but I also now understand what life is like for creatives living there. On the second day of the trip, we had a free day, so I had brunch in upper Manhattan, got lunch in Chelsea with an alumni friend, and even got a tattoo in Soho! Although the trip was very fun and educational, it also helped me lead a group of students and organize a giant event. I am the co-president of the Ohio University Multimedia Society, and we regularly travel to big cities to meet creatives and see if we could see ourselves living there.

- MEG REES

PHOTO CREDIT: MEG REES

JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAMS

“Explore, learn, and protect!” This is the motto recited by children across the country who have achieved the status of Junior Ranger.

Junior Ranger Programs are constructive ways for children visiting national parks across the country to engage with the parks on a personal, educational, and environmental level. The programs are present in almost every national park, recreational area, historic site, and forest in the United States.

The Junior Ranger Program has its beginnings in Junior Naturalist programs and Junior Nature Explorer programs offered to park attendees during the 1930s, ’40s, and ’50s. These programs would involve participation in educational activities including attending ranger-guided meetings and answering questions related to the park. Many of these elements have carried over to the Junior Ranger Programs we have today.

The educational objectives of the Junior Ranger Program are almost synonymous with the mission of the National Park Service itself. Children who participate in the program learn valuable lessons about the ecology, wildlife, and history of the parks and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting and preserving the natural world.

While most of the activities are oriented toward a younger audience, people of all ages are encouraged to participate in the Junior Ranger Program. Upon completion of the designated activities for a particular park and taking the “Junior Ranger Pledge,” participants will receive a badge as proof of their dedication to maintaining the longevity of the park for future generations.

ERIN FINAN

PHOTO CREDIT:

Organization is hard. When you have a lot going on (and particularly if you get distracted at the drop of a hat), staying organized can be quite the feat. I have tried Google calendar, paper planners, written lists, notebooks, Notion, and more, and nothing has stuck. Until now, that is.

I have fallen in love with the Apple Sticky Notes option, “stickies.” I have color coded sticky notes on my laptop home screen so I am forced to look at my to-do list every time I get on my computer. I have sticky notes for every publication I am a part of, one for school, and one for personal belongings. I also have an “Urgent – do TODAY” note in lime green. You can change the colors and sizes of the notes, so they are still aesthetically pleasing for your computer background. This is a simple way to visualize everything that needs to get done.

I cannot take credit for the idea, as I borrowed it from other journalism majors, but I will strongly advise the practice for anyone and everyone. Sometimes, the most effective solution is not the fanciest or most aesthetic. For me, the best solution has been simple colored sticky notes in Calibri font cluttering my desktop to force me to work on my to do list.

- KATIE MILLARD

“BEING FUNNY IN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE” BY THE 1975

The 1975 just released their fifth studio album “Being funny in a foreign language” on October 14th. As a long time fan of the band, I think this is by far one of their best albums yet. With catchy tracks like “Oh Caroline”, and “Happiness”, the band has entered a much more upbeat and funky sound compared to their more recent albums. The album also keeps their expert lyricism that has been a huge aspect of their music since the band’s first album released in 2013. This is especially shown in their songs “Part of the Band” and “Wintering”. “Part of the band” was the first single released from this album, which talks about the struggles that the singer —Matt Healy— has had over the last few years, and discusses the difficulties of living in the world, and in the age of the internet, and how he would much rather live in his imagination where he finds comfort and serenity, featuring lyrics such as, “Am I ironically woke? The butt of my joke? Or am I just some post-coke, average, skinny bloke. Calling his ego imagination?” Overall, I feel as though this album has such a fabulous variety of sounds, and is, in my opinion, one of the best albums released this year in this genre of music.

- CORRIN SWITZER

PHOTO CREDIT: PITCHFORK

PHOTO CREDIT:

Noah Kahan released his third studio album, “Stick Season,” in Oct. 2022. This album captures the complexities of heartbreak and hometowns. This album was Kahan’s first glimpse into the Indie Folk genre, which makes the album feel nostalgic and calm while still making listeners want to scream every word. The first single from the album was released this summer and blew up on tiktok, growing his career rapidly and leading to a sold-out tour. This bittersweet album captures the feeling of driving down dirt roads in a run-

down town where time moves slow. Melancholy, hopelessness, and isolation. Some of my favorite songs on the album are “All My Love,” “Everywhere, Everything,” and “Orange Juice,” but the album changes every time I listen to it. I have heard this album described as “being homesick while still being sick of home,” which I think represents this album perfectly.

“STICK SEASON” BY NOAH KAHAN

ELLA CALHOUN

PHOTO CREDIT: PATRICK MCCORMACK

As I sit and reflect on the semester Thread has had, I can only be proud of all we have accomplished. This semester brought challenges, but I have never seen a group of people solve them as fast as Thread ’s staff and executive board. If there is one thing I am feeling, it is an overwhelming amount of thankfulness.

As we navigated what our second issue of the year could be, my managing editor, Dori Gray, and I thought we would take the opportunity to use the natural props around us to spark our imaginations. At Ohio University, we live among some of the most beautiful terrains.

I am so excited to introduce our second issue to our readers and supporters. “The Great Outdoors” takes everything we love about the environment around us and puts it right in front of us, right into our fingertips. This issue features the everchanging beauty of the trees and nature around us.

For this issue, we took our team into our own backyards. You may recognize places like Strouds Run, The Ridges, and College Green.

In this issue, we talk about figures that have done a lot of good for the environment, like Jane Goodall (P.22) or Leah Thomas (P.24), and we showcased how Birkenstocks can be rocked with socks despite what people may say (P.30).

Sustainability is at the core of this issue as we talk about different ways you can incorporate resourceful products and habits into your everyday life; find out how to make a bouquet of flowers last a lifetime (P.54) or what it is like to be an environment and plant biology student at Ohio U (P.72).

Our Middle of the Book shoots are titled “In Bloom,” “Power of Fours,” “Don’t Trip,” and “Unearthly Delights,” and they are guaranteed to leave you in awe of all the magic nature holds. When brainstorming these shoots, we thought of ways to bring the power and intricacy of the outdoors to life. In this issue, we also decided to incorporate a shoot that highlights pieces of our local outdoors—you will find those photos carefully placed throughout the magazine, telling a story as you turn the pages.

We showed all our love for National Parks (P.132) and appreciation for Appalachian legends (P.172).

I could go on and on about all the worthwhile content in this issue, but I will leave you, our beautiful Thread readers, to see it for yourself.

I, of course, want to give a huge thank you to everyone who put in effort to produce this issue. Thank you to the executive board for your hard work every step of the way, from the very start to the very end. Thank you to the editorial team for your eloquence that brought the stories to life. Thank you to the photo team for bringing your creative vision to life and capturing it with a camera. Thank you to our fashion team, stylist, makeup artists, and models for creating amazing, memorable looks. Thank you to our multimedia team for recording all the moments that need to be remembered. Thank you to our design team for executing another lovely issue of Thread. And thank you to our business team for supporting us every step of the way.

Without the work of every single person in this magazine, there would not be such a monumental outcome.

Take a hike through the pages and enter Thread’s second issue. We hope you love “The Great Outdoors.”

XOXO,

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kayla Bennett MANAGING EDITOR Dori Gray BUSINESS MANAGER Hunter Gibson BUSINESS STAFF Karmia Gabriel

EDITORIAL

COPY CHIEF Erin Finan SEAMS EDITOR Carmen Szukaitis

DIY, WWW, & CAMPUS CASUAL EDITOR Hannah Campbell FEATURES & BOC EDITOR Katie Millard

EDITORIAL STAFF Olivia Rohling, Sabine Obermoller, Tate Raub, Isabella Coneglio, Morgan Mugwira, Maggie Hackworth, Katy Snodgrass, Kendall Bergeron, Maggie Valentine, Carlie Reese, Riley Peeden, Abbey Menza, Mimi Calhoun, Lucy Riley, Riley Clark, Abby Jenkins, Savannah Dawson, Megan Goss, Dori Gray

DESIGN

DESIGN DIRECTOR Grace Sublett

DESIGN STAFF Avery Allison, Hadley Fain, Aliza Dutt, Zoe Cranfill, Julia Greenwood, Kim Langhirt, Zoe Geiss, Carly Hart, George Koloski, Lauren Salter, Maddie Jame, Lauren Adams

ILLUSTRATION STAFF Avery Allison, Julia Greenwood, Zoe Geiss, Carly Hart, Marissa Giordano, Jocelyn Paxton

PHOTO

PHOTO CHIEF Meg Rees

PHOTO EDITOR Corrin Switzer CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ella Calhoun CREATIVE DIRECTOR Grace Braslawsce

PHOTOGRAPHY STAFF Aliza Dutt, Sophie Neilsen, Kat Frazier, Zoe Cranfill, Abbey Sucher, Kenta Kato, Amir Phillips, Tora Blamer, Mackenzie Daniels, Anna Parasson, Zennia Lam, Megan Goss, Ambriell Shannon, Sophia Parrillo, Hadley Fain, Kali Knudson, Josh Zielinski

MULTIMEDIA

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR & WEB EDITOR Julia Greenwood

VIDEO EDITOR Kat Frazier

MULTIMEDIA STAFF Madeline Navratil, Kae Walther, Zoe Cranfill, Kenta Kato, Kim Langhirt, Bryce Auster, Carly Hart, Megan Goss, Audrianna Wilde FASHION

FASHION DIRECTOR Riley James

FASHION DIRECTOR Samantha Kruse

DIRECTOR OF FASHION COMMUNICATIONS Makenzie Price

HEAD STYLIST Grace Auble MAKEUP DIRECTOR Alexis Ky

FASHION STAFF Hadley Fain, Olivia Rohling, Lucy Walter, Sabine Obermoller, Serenity Powell, Tate Raub, Dani Bell, Sophie Neilsen, Lucy Curtin, Kandace Shepherd, Kae Walther, Katy Snodgrass, Kendall Bergeron, Emma Snyder-Lovera, Alexia Ashley, Olivia Trowbridge, Zoe Geiss, Bella Johnson, Mimi Calhoun, Ambriell Shannon, Melanie Geiger, Tanner Smith, Zennia Lam, Molly Florimonte, Megan Goss, Kennedy Hall, Fiona Mack, Julia Germer, Annabelle Sorge, Bella Bolin, Tyler Brooks, J Pressley Mcilwain

PUBLIC RELATIONS

PUBLIC RELATIONS CHIEF Amy Szmik

PUBLIC RELATIONS STAFF Fiona Mack, Sabine Obermoller, Emma Snyder-Lovera, Abby Jenkins, Dori Gray, Sara Wagner, Marissa Giordano

Thread’s Executive Board 2022-2023

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Kayla Bennett

SEAMS EDITOR

Carmen Szukaitis

MANAGING EDITOR Dori Gray

Hannah Campbell

BUSINESS MANAGER Hunter Gibson FEATURES & BOC EDITOR

Katie Millard DESIGN DIRECTOR Grace Sublett

COPY CHIEF Erin Finan

Makenzie Price

BY JOSH ZIELINSKI

A foggy sunrise from atop a hill in Fairfield County, Ohio, in September of 2022. Autumn fog overlays fields punctuated by rows of trees leading up to the hills.

PHOTO

PHOTO CREDIT: LOEWE

RUNWAY REALWAY: LOEWE

BY SAVANNAH DAWSON PHOTOS BY PROVIDED

Spanish luxury fashion house, Loewe, recently released their newest Ready-to-Wear collection at the end of September 2022. The Loewe Spring 2023 collection brought both old and new styles into the mix, sticking with their roots with traditional leather goods like dresses and handbags. Still, this collection has brought about a new spring awakening: the incorporation of flowers and plants into the clothing. Dresses, heels, and handbags are not only in floral prints but also all reflect the shapes and colors of flowers. In addition to the blooming new editions, this collection also brings bold shapes and patterns that mimic those of modern architecture.

On the note of nature that Loewe designers chose to bring into the mix for this season, there is a beautiful juxtaposition of nature with the deflated balloons used as material to line some of the larger statement shoes that walked the runway. To top it all off, creative director Jonathon Anderson chose to slide in a few pixelated looks,

which did not seem to go with the rest of the collection but still fit nicely as an eye-opening surprise throughout the pieces.

As a trend that we have seen repeated each year, cropped suede jackets lined with fur are a welcomed addition to the spring collection. This collection is quite diverse and includes both things we have seen before and new things we love. Loewe never fails to impress its audience, and this crowd at Paris Fashion Week was no exception.

PHOTO CREDIT: JURGEN TELLER

PHOTO CREDIT: LOEWE

RUNWAY REALWAY: DIESEL

BY KENNEDY HALL PHOTOS BY

Diesel is an Italian denim brand founded in 1978 by Renzo Rosso. Diesel was a popular brand during the 2000s known for its low-rise denim. Like all trends, however, it went out of style. Twenty years later, Diesel made a comeback and hired Glenn Martens as the new creative director. The Diesel SpringSummer 2023 Ready-toWear collection opened Milan Fashion Week and was nothing short of experimental and fun while still building off last season’s collection. Themed Diesel democracy, the show consisted of 71 looks with four sections: denim, utility, pop, and play. Models wore coated denim, acid wash, distressed ensembles, and sheer embroidered pieces. The collection shows how versatile denim can be and is reflective of youth. The utility part of the show consisted of bronze satin cargo ensembles, two-toned olive bomber and pants, and massive pockets on utility pants; the looks gave a post-apocalyptic streetwear feel. To up the pop and play, there were dresses and pants made from organza, nylon utility jackets, shredded denim that resembled faux fur, and, most excitingly, a coat made with more than 15,000 ripped Diesel labels. Dramatic silhouettes, bright colors, metallics, and leather were found all throughout the show. The diesel belt and futuristic emblem made a return, building upon their brand identity. The clothes were just one of the exciting parts of the show. Diesel not only created a spectacle by breaking the Guinness World record for the largest inflatable sculpture in

the world but made history with an audience that was open to the public, with 3,000 tickets offered to the public and almost 5,000 in attendance. Diesel believes in the democratization of fashion. “I wanted to open diesel up to the public, for people who may never have been to a fashion show before. It’s what I believe about the fashion and the state of mindeverybody can be part of Diesel,” said Martens. Diesel is making fashion more accessible and helping set the tone for the industry’s future. There is much anticipation for what they will do next.

PHOTO CREDIT: FILIPPO FIOR

Celeb Style: Jane Goodall

BY TATE RAUB PHOTOS BY GRACE AUBLE

Jane Goodall’s impact on environmental conservation and on the field of primatology, the study of nonhuman primates, is so widely known that she has become a household name. She is recognized as one of the most highly esteemed experts on chimpanzees, notably being the first person to witness chimpanzees use tools, a trait that was understood to be distinctly human at the time.

Goodall was only 26 years old when she traveled from her home country of England to Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania to begin exploring the “world of wild chimpanzees.” At the time, the primatology field was heavily male-dominated, resulting in Goodall’s mother accompanying her for her safety. Now, largely because of Goodall’s trailblazing, the primatology field contains a much more equal balance of men and women.

“Being a woman helped me in practical ways,” said Goodall in an essay for TIME in 2018. “White males were still perceived as something of a threat, whereas I as a mere woman was not.”

In addition to her discovery of chimpanzees’ use of tools, Goodall observed them as being capable of logical thinking and experiencing emotions. She even witnessed them exhibiting human-like behaviors, including hugging and patting each other on the back. This is evidence that humans and chimpanzees are not only genetically similar but emotionally similar as well.

In 1962, with no prior degree, Goodall received funding to be a Ph.D. candidate at Cambridge

University and, in 1966, she earned her degree in ethology, the study of animal behavior. Goodall later established the Jane Goodall Institute to support continued research and efforts toward chimpanzee conservation.

When in the field, Goodall typically wears some combination of khaki-colored pants and a buttondown shirt. For public appearances, she tends to wear plain turtleneck shirts with something patterned overtop.

Goodall has created a consistent, iconic style for herself, but what sets her signature look apart is that it was born out of necessity, not for high fashion purposes. Her frequently worn colors while in the field, green and khaki, allow her to better blend in with the environments she observes. Her work transcends the material and emphasizes the importance of protecting not only her beloved chimpanzees but the world as a whole.

“There is still so much in the world worth fighting for,” said Goodall in a message for Google for Earth Day in 2018. “So much that is beautiful, so many wonderful people working to reverse the harm, to help protect their environments.”

Celeb

Style:

QUANNAH CHASINGHORSE

BY ABBY JENKINS PHOTOS BY PROVIDED

Quannah Chasinghorse, while known for her modeling career, is additionally a voice and face for Indigenous people and is breaking boundaries for their voices to be heard.

Chasinghorse is a 20-year-old Indigenous model and activist who was born in Tuba City, Arizona, and is a part of both the Hän Gwich’in (from Alaska and Canada) and the Oglala Lakota (from North Dakota) tribes. Raised by a single mother and multiple aunties, she grew up surrounded by powerful matriarchs. She took a very early interest in fashion, namely luxury brands like Dior and Louis Vuitton. As a little girl, she rarely saw people like her represented in the beauty industry, and she wanted to change that.

Chasinghorse became very successful in her modeling career, showing up in a number of well-known magazines such as Vogue Mexico and National Geographic, as well as making an appearance at the Met Gala in 2021 and 2022. She has also walked the runway for Gucci and Chloé and has been in both Calvin Klein and Chanel campaigns.

As shown through her looks on Instagram and appearances with many luxury brands, Chasinghorse likes using texture in her looks, namely lots of furs and feathers. Her more dressed-up looks consist of brightly colored,

flowy dresses like the one she wore during this year’s Met Gala. She describes her own style as “grungy,” mixing elaborate jewelry with more casual pants. Additionally, she creates vibrant makeup looks, utilizing bright colors around her eyes. She incorporates her own culture into her looks, as representing her own people is important to her.

Additionally, Chasinghorse uses her platform to reach audiences and educate them on worldly issues such as sustainability, climate change, and Indigenous sovereignty. She speaks for the land she grew up on and is willing to do anything to protect it. Her goal is to let others know that Indigenous people are still present here today. She works to bring recognition to the previously appropriated Native American traditions and art, such as the sacred hand poke facial tattoos called Yidįįłtoo. In an interview for Vogue, she said that she has always felt empowered, especially with her family, and loves to advocate and uplift her people.

Culture is a huge part of Chasinghorse’s life, making it the focus of her career as a model as well as representing so many others who need a familiar face to look up to or a voice to be heard.

Ohio University alumna, Sarah Liese, wears beaded earrings she bought from Two Spirit (Nansemond) artist Alex Britt. Liese said Britt’s pieces help her feel confident in her identity.

Liese finds herself mixing inherited Navajo pieces with sophisticated and contemporary styles. Photo taken by Joseph Scheller.

Shrug it

BY DORI GRAY PHOTOS BY SOPHIA PARRILLO

Ms. Edna Mode of “The Incredibles” once famously said, “No capes!” However, Spring 2023 Ready-to-Wear collections appeared to enthusiastically campaign for the opposite. Anna October, Sacai, Chanel, Valentino, and Elie Saab all draped fabrics over the shoulders of their models in the name of fashion.

The earliest recording of a cape is “a 1066 illustration of a soldier or shepherd (who) had a cape draped across his shoulder.” An illustration of a woman with a cape affixed to her dress collar followed in the 1300s, according to CR Fashionbook. What once was used to indicate occupation or rank became more modish in the Victorian era, and new cape designs emerged starting in the 1920s.

While capes are generally considered an evergreen outfit addition, shrugs have made a comeback. A shrug “is basically just any longsleeve top with only the disembodied sleeves,” according to L’Officiel. The short garment can be closed or open in the front and made with a variety of materials. It is also convenient for layering. Renaissance Renaissance participated in the shrug revival in its Spring 2023 Ready-to-Wear collection by way of a cropped knit cardigan.

Shrugs came back into the limelight due to the Y2K style resurgence and the thriving “balletcore aesthetic,” a trend inspired by an outsider’s view of ballet culture. Dancers commonly wear knit

shrugs as warm-up attire. To emulate the genuine look, balletcore enthusiasts can slip on a shrug, a tulle midi skirt, and ballet flats over a bodysuit and tights.

Though the terms “shrug” and “bolero” are often used interchangeably, bolero jackets are generally more structured and “can be for semiformal and formal occasions,” according to MasterClass. Just think of bolero jackets as the shrug’s fancy sibling.

The collarless bolero jacket originates from Spain. It typically has an open front, has long sleeves, and stops above the waistline, according to The Business of Fashion. Sami Miro Vintage released its Open Seam Boleros Nov. 1 as a part of a limited edition collection titled Suiting.

A popular Oscar de la Renta quote read, “the great thing about fashion is that it always moves forward.” However, the aptly named 20-year rule, referring to the 20 years it takes for a trend to come back into fashion, has proved true. Capes prevailed as shrugs and bolero jackets returned.

In the end, everyone should simply wear what they enjoy. It is a good thing Gianni Versace counseled not to be into trends. “Don’t make fashion own you, but you decide what you are, what you want to express by the way you dress and the way to live,” he said. So true, Gianni.

BIRK ‘N’ SOCKS

BY MAGGIE VALENTINE PHOTOS BY SOPHIE NEILSEN

Since its founding in 1774 as a shoe cobbling company in Germany, the Birkenstock sandal has been a staple shoe in people’s closets for many years. This boho shoe brand, mostly known for its two-strap “Arizona” style introduced in the 1970s, can be styled with any outfit

For those wanting to expand their shoe game into the Birkenstock brand, the Arizona style is the shoe for beginners as they are the most popular and more inexpensive, costing $110 instead of a few higher priced Birkenstocks, which cost around $149 to $200. The shoes prove they are worth the cost as Birkenstocks last consumers multiple seasons and, as a result, can be used as a yearround closet staple.

The sandal style is an obvious choice for spring and summer and pairs well with jean shorts, skirts, or a colorful sundress. Birkenstocks are an easy shoe to dress up and down. The Birkenstock EVA style is a twist on the Arizona style and is great for the summertime. The shoe is plastic but only costs $45, which is ideal for slipping them on and off at the beach.

More recently, the brand has been gaining popularity through its Boston style. Priced at $155, this sandal is a closed-toe, slipper-like style that many like to wear in the fall and winter to pair with baggy jeans, yoga pants, or leggings, and a cute sweater or oversized sweatshirt. Bostons come in many different materials, but a fall favorite is the suede leather, as it presents itself as a more wornin look. For a cozier look, some styles, although for a bit steeper price, are fur-lined. These shoes can be used as a slipper both indoors and outdoors.

Others tend to opt for what is to be considered a fashionably notorious look of socks and sandals; Birkenstock embraces this look by advertising models wearing the combination, and the company even sells a few styles of socks. The art of styling socks with sandals is useful to bring the summer look of the Arizonas into the fall.

The downside of Birkenstocks is the tough soles that take time to break in. A few styles on the website have soft-sole options. Even though the first couple weeks are a bit rough, Birkenstocks are worth it in the end for their long-lasting, leather look.

Products for the Soul

BY OLIVIA ROHLING PHOTOS SOPHIA PARRILLO

What even are hemp products anyway? Well, to start, knowing what hemp is is important. Hemp is a term used to describe cannabis with 0.3% or less tetrahydrocannabinol, also known as THC. Some hemp products might not even have any THC in them, with the main ingredient being cannabidiol, or CBD. CBD is a chemical that has been proven to help symptoms of certain medical conditions like epilepsy and post-traumatic stress disorder. With the THC content in hemp being so low or maybe even nonexistent, it is very unlikely to cause a person to get high, making it legal under federal law in the U.S. to sell it alone and in products.

There is a whole line of hemp products called “Hempz,” whose slogan is “The Secret is in the Seed.” This company sells pretty much any hemp product you can think of, including lotions, soaps, cleansers, lip balms, and more. Hempz products are vegan, gluten-free, paraben-free, THC-free, and cruelty-free.

Well, what do these products do? One of the more popular hemp products is hemp seed oil, which can help reduce the symptoms of skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema when put on the skin. Hemp lotions work like any other lotion but with the beneficial properties of CBD, like pain relief

and inflammation reduction. As opposed to an ordinary lotion, hemp lotion naturally has fatty acids that have been shown to improve skin conditions like eczema and acne. Skin needs fatty acids like linoleic and oleic acid to stay hydrated, and hemp moisturizers contain both of these. There are anti-aging properties contained in CBD oil as well.

Chapped lips? Hemp lip balm. Dry under eyes? Hemp serum. Want hemp in your hair? Try hemp shampoo and conditioner. Going out in the sun? Use some hemp sunscreen. Hemp seed oil actually has an SPF of six because it is a plant capable of having its own UV protection. There really is no limit to what you can put hemp in and what it can be used for.

Hemp products very likely will not get you high as they primarily utilize CBD’s beneficial properties, not the properties of THC’s which cause people to get high.

Hemp products are great for adding a little more benefit and a little more earthiness into your pamper and self-care routine.

Reduce. Reuse. Refill.

BY SAMANTHA KRUSE PHOTOS ZOE CRANFILL

Reducing wasteful product use and reusing products are great ways to start working toward an eco-friendly lifestyle. Reusable products help the environment by reducing plastic waste and can decrease spending on singleuse products, saving the buyer money in the long run. These products reduce plastic going into landfills and save energy from the creation of new materials.

Grab a tote bag and hit the grocery store with some of these reusable jars.”

There is a diverse selection of food storage options that can replace single-use plastic. Resealable jars come in all different sizes and can hold foods such as nuts, chips, coffee beans, candy, oats, and rice. Grocery stores typically have a food dispensary section, providing different options for refillable products. Grab a tote bag and hit the grocery store with some of these reusable jars. There are also reusable/ refillable wolven produce bags that are machinewashable too. Cups are another fun product that comes in different shapes and sizes for a person’s beverage needs. Reusable water bottles have been around since the late 1940s and can now be found in almost every household. Metal water bottles are highly coveted pieces now because they have the ability to keep water cold at all hours of the day.

Another reusable cup option is travel mugs, which come in different patterns and sizes, elevating the coffee-drinking

“

experience on the go. Local coffee shops usually have a discount for bringing in reusable cups, saving plastic and money on that latte.

Hygiene products typically generate a sufficient amount of plastic waste. Refillable shampoo and conditioner bottles come in different sizes and usually include a pump. Purchasing hair care products in bulk and dividing it up in smaller containers is one way to limit plastic waste. Different shampoo and conditioner brands are now selling reusable bottles, which usually include a pouch of the product to refill once the first bottle is emptied. There are refillable container options for many

other products as well, including body soaps, moisturizers, and makeup. Make sure to check other brands to see if there are refillable product options.

polluting environmenthet”

These reusable containers save money and reduce waste polluting the environment. There is a diverse selection of refillable products varying from hygiene to food storage. These items are easily accessible on Etsy —shout out to small businesses!— and Amazon. Both Kindred Market and Krogers in Athens, Ohio have a refillable station ideal for utilizing these refillable jars and alternative storage options.

“These reusable containers save money and reduce waste

Alex Honnold

BY MOLLY WILSON PHOTOS BY PROVIDED

Where many rock climbers enjoy a harness, rope, and protective equipment while scaling some of the most dangerous and challenging rock formations, Alex Honnold does not.

The 37-year-old rock climber attempts climbs that many in the sport consider being reserved for the elite, climbing formations past safe heights without life-saving equipment. Honnold is a free soloist and widely considered one of the best.

Free soloing is a form of rock climbing in which climbers forgo the equipment that many use when climbing: harnesses, ropes, belays, protective equipment, and, in many cases, company.

A free soloist defying all odds.

PHOTO CREDIT: WORLDWIDE SPEAKERS GROUP

“I feel like anyone could conceivably

on any given day – [free] soloing makes it feel far more immediate and much more present,” said Honnold in a National Geographic film titled “Free Solo.”

Free soloing requires a high level of focus, training, and skill, and if Honnold makes one mistake, he risks his life.

In 2008, Honnold completed a ground-breaking 950-foot free solo of Moonlight Buttress in Zion, Utah. Following that climb, he free soloed Half Dome in Yosemite, California, which is a 2,000-foot climb, and the feat earned him a feature story on “60 Minutes” as he began to gain national attention.

In 2017, not without fear and with years of training, Honnold attempted and

completed what nobody in the sport had previously done. He free soloed El Captian, or “El Cap,” a vertical rock formation in Yosemite National Park. None of the previous climbs he had completed compared to that of El Cap.

The 3,200-foot climb was the focus of National Geographic’s film “Free Solo,” which documented Honnold’s process of free soloing El Cap. He completed the climb in three hours and 56 minutes.

By free soloing El Cap, Honnold put the finishing touches on an 8-year dream and his greatest life goal. By the time he did so, Honnold had been living in his van for nearly a decade.

The rock climber called a 2002 Ford

“None of the previous climbs he had completed compared to that of El Cap.”

die

PHOTO CREDIT: JIMMY CHIN

Econoline home for nine years, collecting around 200,000 miles on the vehicle by the time he moved into a Nevada home with his then long-term girlfriend and now wife, Sanni McCandless.

The van, which served as his bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and gym, enabled him to travel frequently for different rock-climbing adventures.

Climbing El Cap required Honnold to step outside his fear. Rather than working through the fear, he said in the National Geographic film, Honnold prefers to expand his comfort zone.

Honnold remains humble in his endeavors, only letting a small smile form at the corners of his mouth after reaching the top of El Cap’s wall.

That smile, which eventually radiated pure happiness and relief, is one Honnold let slip a few times during the climb only after making his way through some of the most difficult aspects of the route.

In February, Honnold and McCandless welcomed their first child, June. Honnold continues to climb though only a few of his climbs are free solos.

PHOTO CREDIT: WADE VANDERVORT

BY RILEY PEEDEN PHOTOS BY PROVIDED

Environmental activist, Leah Thomas, fights for equality within the field of environmental science using her nonprofit organization, her book, and her social media platform.

PHOTO CREDIT: VAL VEGA

eah Thomas, also known as @greengirlleah on Instagram and TikTok, is an environmental activist and educator who uses communications and writing to break down critical environmental issues that affect people’s daily lives. Thomas graduated from Chapman University in 2017 with a Bachelor of Science in environmental science and policy. Her main objective is to make environmental science more palatable for the everyday person. Her nonprofit organization, Intersectional Environmentalism, strives to make environmental information easily accessible for minority communities that

of climate change.

Thomas uses her nonprofit organization to raise awareness because she believes that knowledge is power. Thomas also educates communities on environmental issues through her writing. This year, Thomas published her book, The Intersectional Environmentalist: How to Dismantle Systems of Oppression to Protect People + Planet, on International Women’s Day. Her goal is for the book to spread environmental information to all communities, and she hopes the book ends up in classrooms all across the country. Thomas writes to help merge social justice with environmentalism. This is evident in a piece she recently wrote for Vogue titled “All My Environmental Heroes Are Black Women.” Thomas primarily focused on the underrepresentation of Black women in the field of environmental science. She details her difficult and isolating experience studying environmental science as a woman of color, explaining that the accomplishments of white men tend to be the only focus. At the end of her piece, she highlights the accomplishments of five influential Black women in environmental science.

- Leah Thomas to In The Know by Yahoo.

She continues to empower women of color in the environmental science field through her social justice work. In early October, Thomas piloted the Black Ecofeminist Summit that was held in London. This summit was a combination of Black feminism and climate justice. The main objective of the Black Ecofeminist Summit, as outlined on Thomas’s website, was to “highlight the vast contributions of Black women to the environmental movement and serve as a hub for joy.” Twelve Black women spoke about their experiences within the field. Black Feminist Bookshop also helped produce this innovative summit.

Thomas’ efforts are inspiring, and it is very clear that she is already making an impact. Through her efforts and her writing, she demonstrates that there is plenty of room for Black women within the environmental science field. Thomas hopes “[her] impact will be seeing more Black women in the environmental space and for them to feel really empowered.” Representation of female and Black people in the STEM field is something truly important.

“Everyday people have no idea what’s going on with their air quality, their water quality, unless it becomes a crisis like Flint, Michigan.”

often experience the harshest consequences

PHOTO CREDIT: MARK GRIFFIN CHAMPION

PHOTO CREDIT: CHER MARTINEZ

Overlooking a valley from atop the 2522-foot Maricopa Peak, the highest point in the Ma Ha Tauk Range of Arizona’s South Mountains, in December of 2021. The sun briefly peaks out before again submitting to the clouds.

PHOTO BY JOSH ZIELINSKI

Flowers to For

BY MOLLY WILSON PHOTOS BY MEGAN GOSS

Flowers are a girl’s best friend. Is that how the saying goes? Not really, but who does not love receiving a bouquet of flowers from a significant other or loved one? Whether it is after a momentous occasion or just for the fun of it, flowers signify that someone is thinking about you. However, holding onto those memories can mean more than thinking fondly of receiving a flower. Drying flowers allows people to preserve a moment, person, or thought in time to be kept forever beyond the capabilities of our mind.

To keep a flower or a bouquet in its current form, drying flowers is the best option. This process does not remove the flower from the stem, so it can be kept in its original form for many years.

Materials Needed:

• Flowers • Scissors • Rubber Band • Hairspray

Instructions:

Step 1: Cut the stems of the flower bouquet until about six inches of the stems are left.

Step 2: Use the rubber band and tie the stems together. If drying a singular flower, skip this step.

Step 3: Hang the flowers upside down in a dark, well-ventilated room to preserve color and allow the flowers to dry.

Step 4: The drying process will take a few weeks, so check on the flowers periodically.

Step 5: After two to four weeks, spray the flowers with hairspray to preserve and protect them.

DIY Pressed Flowers

Complementary to dried flowers, pressed flowers have various purposes while also preserving the natural beauty of flowers and memories associated. Pressed flowers can be framed or used on note cards, book covers, and placemats.

Materials Needed:

• Flowers •

Large Book

• Absorbent paper (watercolor paper, newspaper or parch ment paper)

• Weight

Instructions:

Step 1: Remove the stems and any unwanted petals from the flowers.

Step 2: Arrange the flower or flowers on the sheet of paper in the desired design.

Step 3: Place that paper between the middle of the heavy book and close the book. Place an additional weight on top of the book if necessary.

Step 4: The drying process will take a few weeks, so check on the flowers periodically to gauge the amount of moisture left in them.

Step 5: After two to four weeks, your pressed flowers are ready to be used in whatever way you desire.

Laundry List: DIY Dryer Balls

BY KATIE MILLARD ILLUSTRATIONS BY MARISSA GIORDANO PHOTOS BY BY PROVIDED

In 2022, waste reduction is something everyone is cognisant of. One item on the chopping block is dryer sheets. Since they are not technically necessary, making the switch to go without this landfill-bound item is an easy one. For those who are not willing to give up that wrinkle-limiting, static-dissolving, softening wash and dry, here is how to make DIY dryer balls for the same laundry without the monetary or environmental cost.

Materials Needed:

• One skein of 100% wool, which can be purchased at online or at any local craft store

• Scissors

• One crochet hook

• One old pair of pantyhose

Instructions:

Step 1. Take the yarn and wrap it around a few fingers 10 times.

Step 2. Remove the yarn from your fingers and wrap it 10 times around the middle.

Step 3. Wrap the yarn tightly around the clump from every angle, repeating 5-10 wraps in the same direction before switching angles. (Note: try to mold the ball into as round a shape as possible).

Step 4. When the ball is slightly larger than a tennis ball, cut the yarn.

Step 5. Pull the end of the yarn through the ball with the crochet hook.

Step 6. Repeat steps 1-5 to make a second wool ball.

Step 7. Place the balls into the pantyhose, knotting the pantyhose between each of the balls.

Step 8. Run wool balls in the pantyhose through the washer and dryer with loads of laundry until they become solid balls (Note: this will take 3-4 loads).

Step 9. Remove balls from pantyhose.

Now, you have homemade dryer balls!

Happy Hiking

BY OLIVIA ROHLING PHOTOS BY KALI KNUDSON

There is no better way to appreciate nature and the outdoors than with a hike. While seemingly straight forward, there are some hiking basics that everyone should know to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.

Do not hike alone. If, however, one chooses to do so, they should share their location with a trusted loved one and make sure multiple people know where they are going and when they plan to return. Whether someone is hiking solo, with a friend, or with a whole group, having their location known by a few people back home for safety’s sake is always a good idea. Hikers never know what problems they might encounter out in the wilderness, so being safe is better than being sorry.

A successful hike is set up by wearing the correct shoes. Boots

or sneakers work best of course, but for those who are feeling extra, there are shoes made specifically for hiking.

This may be a given, but bring water. This is possibly the most important tip of them all. Dehydration can happen regardless of the weather. Hikers will want to be comfortable and not parched while navigating the wilderness.

Sunscreen and bug spray are vital. When hiking in the summer, hikers should not forget these unless they want to burn to a crisp or become a mosquito’s next meal. These items might be slightly less important if hiking in colder months, but being prepared can never hurt.

Be safe, be smart, and happy hiking!

fermented faves

Move along coffee; kombucha makes spilling tea healthy for the mind and soul.

BY HANNAH CAMPBELL PHOTO BY AMBRIELL SHANNON

In 221 B.C., brewers in northern China and Korea created a fermented tea beverage that we know today as kombucha. The brewers named the drink the “tea of immortality” because of its extreme health benefits. Over the centuries, the tea moved along to other parts of the world, being noted to prevent hair loss and increase sex drive. The beverage is just as popular today, with the perks being just as endless.

While the process may take a while, the health benefits are worth the effort. Here is how to make kombucha right at home.

DIY Scoby

ingredients:

• 8 cups of water

• 1 cup of granulated sugar

• 8 bags of black or green tea

• 2 cups of prepared Kombucha (storebought)

instructions:

Step 1. Bring water to a boil in a large saucepan.

Step 2. Add sugar and stir until it completely dissolves.

Step 3. Turn off heat and add tea bags. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature.

Step 4. Pour kombucha into a 1 gallon-sized jar and add room-temperature tea mixture. Add cool water to fill to the top.

Step 5. Cover the jar with two coffee filters and secure with a rubber band. Place the jar in a room-temperature place out of direct sunlight.

Step 6. Leave the mixture for two to four weeks. Once the mixture covers the surface, is nontransparent and roughly ¼ inch thick, your scoby is ready.

DIY Kombucha

ingredients:

• 3 ½ quarts of water

• 1 cup of sugar (regular granulated sugar works best)

• 8 bags of black tea, green tea, or a mix (or 2 tablespoons loose tea)

• 2 cups of store-bought kombucha (unpasteurized, neutral-flavored)

• 1 scoby per fermentation jar, homemade or purchased online

instructions:

Step 1. Bring water to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in sugar until it completely dissolves.

Step 2. Drop in tea bags or tea leaves and allow them to steep until water has cooled down.

Step 3. Once the tea has cooled, remove the tea bars to strain out the loose tea. Stir in the store-bought kombucha.

Step 4. Pour the mixture into a one-gallon glass jar, and gently slide the socby into the jar with clean hands. Cover the mouth of the jar with coffee filters or paper towels and secure with a rubber band.

Step 5. Allow the jar to ferment for seven to 10 days. Keep the jar in a room-temperature location that is out of direct sunlight.

Step 6. Once the kombucha reaches your preferred sweetness, gently scoop the scoby out of the jar with clean hands.

Step 7. If preferred, pour the fermented kombucha into a bottle using a small funnel and add any juice, herbs, or fruit for extra flavoring.

Mix it Up

BY EMME BOWE PHOTOS BY AMIR PHILLIPS

Finding a snacking option during the winter season that is convenient, healthy, and can last an entire Hallmark movie’s worth of mindless eating can be difficult. For those who want to enjoy a festive treat without the hassle of baking, trail mix is a simple and tasty option.

Trail mixes traditionally combine nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and chocolate. This sweet and savory blend provides a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. Beyond its simplicity and health benefits, the beauty of trail mix lies with the lack of rules. Fitness fanatics can customize their recipe to fit their macros. Chocoholics can add candy, cereal, or chocolate covered pretzels to satisfy their sweet tooths. There is a trail mix assortment for every type of person and every type of craving.

Trail mix does not require a recipe because one can simply throw anything into the bowl, but here is some inspiration for a trail mix that can hang with the baked goods at the potluck. Trail mix is totally customizable, so feel free to change the proportions or substitute any ingredients.

Water cascades elegantly over the rocks on a cloudy, fall day at Blackwater Falls in late October 2022. The autumn, mountain air blows across the water, and the water crashes into itself, creating a harmonious noise.

BY CORRIN SWITZER

PHOTO

Who, What, Wear Making it Your Own

Tie-dye makes for creative freedom

BY TATE RAUB

PHOTOS BY KALI KNUDSON ILLUSTRATIONS BY ZOE GEISS

Tie-dying is the technique of strategically tying, folding, and twisting a piece of cloth and applying fabric dye so that when untied, various colored shapes and patterns appear. The history of tie-dying goes as far back as the 5th century but became more popular during the counterculture movement of the 1960s and ‘70s. In the 21st century, however, tie-dying has been experiencing a revival in fashion beyond the tie-dye T-shirts people made in art class.

Dating from 500 A.D. to 810 A.D., the earliest surviving examples of tie-dye are from the pre-Columbian era in Peru, with the patterns consisting of lines, small circles, and bright colors such as green, blue, red, and yellow.

In 1909, Charles E. Pellow, a professor at Columbia University, showed students a piece of tie-dyed muslin and both explained and showed how the technique worked. The practice gained popularity in the 1920s and remained in the United States throughout the Great Depression because it was a cheap way to decorate homes and clothing. Janis Joplin and Jerry Garcia are among the stars credited with further popularizing tie-dye in the ’60s. The ‘80s saw tie-dye incorporated into high-fashion designers clothing. In the 21st century, fabric dyes have become

more affordable and accessible, causing the customization of any and all fabric garments to become much more common.

Andrea Wei, the owner of Cool Tie Dye in Worthington, Ohio, has been creating and selling tie-dye products for almost 30 years. While in college at Ohio State University, a friend asked her to help create some tie-dye shirts for a fundraiser. She picked the hobby back up as a young, single mom and has not stopped since.

“My first home computer search was how to make a tie-dye,” said Wei. “I did the research that I could to learn much about it, but back then there were not a whole lot of tie-dye

books… I got a bunch of books on different dyeing techniques, so then I kind of meshed different things together, different techniques together and came up with my own style.”

Wei considers Cool Tie Dye to be a pop-up shop because she and her family typically only open the shop for a few hours to meet customers for size exchanges and order pickups. Wei and her family’s time is largely spent dying their products. Cool Tie Dye is

also a part of the Ohio State Crafter Licensing Program, which allows them to use OSU trademarks and logos on their products. Most Cool Tie Dye products are sold at craft shows, fairs, festivals, and big events around Columbus, Ohio.

Kim Desfosses spearheads Grandma Kim’s Tie Dyes in Hilliard, Ohio. Similar to Wei, Desfosses found a love for tie-dye on a whim. For her 50th birthday, Desfosses wanted to

“IjustfoundoutIloveit;it’samazing,” said Desfosses. “They’realldifferent,

have a tie-dye themed party, and she learned how to tie-dye so that everyone who came to the party could take home a tie-dyed shirt as a party favor.

Desfosses and her family run Grandma Kim’s Tie Dyes, mostly utilizing Facebook to announce craft show appearances or pop-up locations. They sell the usual products like T-shirts, dresses, and hats, but Desfosses explained that her favorite product is her 2X and up sized tees. She said that because she personally has a hard time finding shirts that fit her that she actually likes, she takes extra pride in

being able to make them for others. Naturally, they are Grandma Kim’s Tie Dyes’ bestsellers. While tie-dying’s popularity varies over time, it never disappears completely, repeatedly coming back in waves. There is something appealing about a tie-dyed shirt made with friends at a craft night or purchased from a local business. No, tie-dye is not a highfashion style of clothing but is somehow timeless.

Student Spotlight: Cat Gavin Environmental & Plant Biology

BY CARMEN SZUKAITIS PHOTOS BY AMIR PHILLIPS

CAT GAVIN, A SOPHOMORE STUDYING ENVIRONMENTAL AND PLANT BIOLOGY, HAS A DEEP PASSION FOR EXPLORING THE FIELD THROUGH HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE.

Plants are a vital part of many of the Earth’s environments, providing food for humans and animals and supplying the oxygen we breathe.

Ohio University offers four majors for undergraduates in the environmental and plant biology department: applied plant biology, environmental and plant biology, environmental science and sustainability, and field ecology. Students can explore their majors with handson experience in research labs and classes.

Rebecca Snell, who has a doctorate in forestry, is an associate professor in the department of environmental and plant biology. She teaches various plant biology courses at OU and has a research lab where students work alongside her.

“I do have a research lab and have both undergraduate and graduate students working with me,” said Snell in an email. “My research is about understanding how forests will respond to climate change by focusing on the relationships between weather and seed production, seed dispersal and seedling establishment.”

Cat Gavin, a sophomore studying environment and plant biology, works with Snell in her research lab. Gavin said Snell impacted her greatly by bringing her into a hands-on space to work with plants.

“So my advisor is Dr. Snell, and she works with masting and oak trees, mostly in her lab, which I’m working on this semester,” said Gavin. “Once

a month, we go out and collect seeds from these traps in two different areas, two different parks. And we log those, like what type of seed they are, a corn or hickory region. And then, we weigh them, and we use that data. Dr. Snell is using that data to report masting, which is just one tree [that produces] a lot of seeds in one year [at] the same time across the forest.”

Snell said working with students is one of her favorite parts of her job. Snell’s work with students enables new research thoughts, questions, and ideas.

“It is great to be able to provide field experience for students, as the work they do in my lab is their first real field experience that they have had,” said Snell in an email. “I would not be able to maintain the long-term seed collection study without them.”

Gavin has also gained experience through the Ohio Flora class instructed by Harvey Ballard, who has a doctorate in botany and is a professor and internships coordinator in the department of molecular cellular biology.

“[Ohio Flora] was really cool to experience that hands-on also because we go out each twice a week into the field like the forest somewhere and really learn plants, like, hands-on,” said Gavin.

Students who take Ohio Flora learn the identifications of vascular plants of Ohio,

mainly southeastern Ohio, in vegetative and reproductive condition, according to the environmental and plant biology undergraduate course offerings.

Before Gavin came to OU, there was always an interest in plants from growing up in outdoor spaces. Through the pursuit of their degree, Gavin hopes to be granted more career options with a STEM major.

“I always just liked plants and nature in general,” said Gavin “I grew up in outdoor spaces, and that was where I felt most like at home and stuff. And I thought that this major would have all my different passions in my life. I thought that this specific major would bring me the most opportunity just being a STEM major.”

Hand-on experience in the field of environmental and plant biology thoroughly changed Gavin’s

perception of her major.

“It’s kind of given me more hope and incited my passion in it because sometimes with taking classes that are so by the book and a lot just sitting in the classroom and lecture,” said Gavin. “It kind of weighs down on you a lot, especially with a major like this where you’re learning about nature, but you’re not really in it.”

who, what,

who, what, wear

Hammocking and its alternatives, the good and the bad

Hanging Out... Down the Street

BY KATY SNODGRASS PHOTOS BY ALIZA DUTT ILLUSTRATION BY MARISSA GIORDANO

With Athens temperatures beginning to drop and the leaves officially starting to change colors, now is just the right time to cozy up in a hammock and enjoy autumn in Athens. From College Green to Strouds Run State Park, there are endless spots to set up a hammock and just hang out on and around campus. With the increasing popularity of hammocking, many new unconventional hammocks have popped up on the market as alternatives to the traditional hammock. Here are some of the cool new ways to hang out whenever, wherever, and with whoever you want.

who, what, wear

The Hydro Hammock

The Hydro Hammock combines the relaxation qualities of hanging in nature and soaking in a hot tub into one unique hammock. All that is needed is a space between two trees and a water source, and the inbuilt pump and heater will do the rest of the work. The Hydro Hammock is big enough for two and is extremely portable, making it the ideal mobile hot tub.

The Triple Decker Hammock

This hammock is designed in a triangular shape in order to create more space and make the setup process much easier. The Tentsile Trillium is very durable and can hold several adults or a large party of children at once. The hammock also comes with overhead tarps, which can be used to sleep overnight in mild weather, making this hammock the ideal outdoor sleepover setup.

The Car/Jeep Hammock

Designed to make sleeping in the car comfortable and easy, this is any road tripper’s ideal hammock. The Car Hammock attaches to the roof of a car, hanging in the space above the reclined back seats. There is ample space for two adults and the hammock can be conveniently stored in any trunk. Alternatively, for Jeep drivers, there is the Jammock. The Jeep Hammock is designed to hang from the bars of any Jeep or truck for a cozy nap in the sun. The Jammock is excellent to use during outdoor activities, including drive-in movies, watching fireworks, or observing an outdoor sporting event.

The Rocking Chair Hammock

This chair provides a convenient hammock setup for inside the home with no hanging required. The hammock is stretched between the frame of the chair, which rocks back and forth for an enjoyable weightless feeling. The Rocking Hammock is an ideal nap spot for children and adults alike as the gentle swaying motion helps one doze off faster than ever.

The Life Saver Hammock

The Tentsile Universe hammock triples as a tent or water raft, making it the ideal camping system. Easily hang the hammock between two trees, take it down and assemble it as a tent on the ground, and then push it into the water to float on. The floor of the Tentsile Universe hammock is inflatable, which allows for the structure to float and also prevents the cold from creeping in through the ground of the tent.

The Feet Hammock

This miniature hammock is designed to fit snugly under any desk or table to provide a comfortable resting place for one’s feet while working. Fuut by Three Dot is portable, durable, and made to stretch out to any table size for the ultimate foot rest.

Hammocks for Pets

Hammocking with our furry friend has never been easier with the creation of hammocks ideally sized for pets. These hammocks can hang anywhere in and out of the home but are most commonly used inside for pets who enjoy looking out the window. Many different companies have created their own unique design for a pet hammock from levitating cat beds to space-saving hangout spaces.

who, what, wear

Peering over the 1,200-foot-deep Cheat River Canyon from an outcrop in Snake Hill Wildlife Management Area, located east of Morgantown, West Virginia. Photographed in March of 2022.

PHOTO BY JOSH ZIELINSKI

In Bloom

BECOME ONE WITH NATURE

PHOTOS BY GRACE BRASLAWSCE

PHOTOS BY HADLEY FAIN & TATI ALSTON

Finding the natrual beauty within

The Power of Fours

PHOTOS BY MEG REES

WITNESS THE FOLKS WITH KALEIDOSCOPE EYES

unearthlydelights

PHOTOS BY ZOE CRANFILL

STEP INTO THE GARDEN

NATIONAL PARKS

PHOTOS BY ELLA CALHOUN NATIONAL PARKS PHOTOS BY PROVIDED ILLUSTRATIONS

BY JULIA GREENWOOD

WYOMING - MONTANA - IDAHO

GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK EST. 1934

BACKGROUND PHOTO CREDITS: GETTY

KENAI FJORDS

ARCHES NATIONAL PARK

BACKGROUND PHOTO CREDITS: MARK BRODKIN PHOTOGRAPHY

BACKGROUND PHOTO CREDITS: MIKE SIEGEL

DEATH VALLEY

The cold air whistles through the thick trees in Cooks Forest State Park on one of the chilliest afternoons of March 2021. The Clarion River is battling within itself to keep flowing despite freezing temperatures. The falling snow around you creates a haze in the distance, as the frozen flakes land softly onto your face and nose.

BY CORRIN SWITZER

PHOTO

DECEMBER HOROSCOPES

WRITTEN BY MOLLY WILSON ILLUSTRATIONS BY MADDIE JAMES

This month’s sign: Sagittarius

Sagittarius, Nov. 22-Dec. 21

This is your month, Sagittarius. Be thankful for your past year and seek opportunities this month that you might have ignored earlier in the year. Think about what you want from this next year and enter 2023 with the desire to accomplish your goals. Avoid what will not make you happy and know you deserve everything good in life.

Capricorn, Dec. 22-Jan. 19

Act courageously, my sweet Capricorn. Use your determination this month to help others through the challenges they are facing. If you are compelled to focus on yourself, though, do it. December is the time for Capricorns to focus on self-love and embrace their true desires. Focus on your aspirations, dreams, and emotions. Do not allow anyone to derail your progress.

Aquarius, focus on your family this month. Whether that be biological family, friends, or your home in Athens, take care of your people and house this month. Focus on those who make you happy. You might face some workrelated difficulties, so focusing on your home life and the atmosphere you come back to after a long day of working and studying is important.

Pisces, Feb. 19-March 20

Be generous this month, Pisces. Focus on the caring side of your personality and help those you are close with. Do not ignore your own needs, though. You are worth the energy you give to other people. When faced with difficult situations this December, follow your heart, and do what you feel is right.

Aries, March 21-April 19

Let go of your stress, Aries. Trust yourself and your process. Believe in yourself, find your joy, and encourage yourself to be brave. Make your loved ones a priority and spend time with those whom you care for the most.

Taurus, April 20-May 20

Be compassionate this December, Taurus. See the beauty in the world, and focus on that. Keep your mind and physical space clean and engage with those you want to keep in your life. Let go of people who do not benefit you.

Gemini, May 21-June 20

Gemini, now is the time to move on from your toxicity. Do not let others control what you do, choose what you do yourself. Focus on the people in your life who propel it forward and let go of those who seem to stall your progress. Focus on development this December.

Cancer, June 21-July 22

Time to let go, Cancer. December signifies a period of fearlessness for you. Let go of your stress, and act bravely. You might face a difficult situation in your life, so keep your hopes high and ignore your negative thoughts. Focus on making memories this December and make your dreams a reality.

Leo, July 23-Aug. 22

Leo, be yourself this December. Allow your inner social butterfly to flourish, hang out with people, and do what makes you happy. Ignore your fear and be exactly who you want to be. Do not get too self-focused, however. Enjoy your life with those whom you love most, and engage in their lives and

Virgo, Aug. 23-Sept. 22

Virgo, embrace independence this month. By focusing on yourself this month, you will go into the new year with a newfound sense of confidence and resilience. Be bold and speak on issues you feel are important to your sense of self.

Libra, Sept. 23-Oct. 22

Libra, embrace your long-term goals this December. As we get ready to welcome 2023, think about what you want to accomplish, and let go of anything that will deter you from those aspirations. Focus on yourself, not other people.

Scorpio, Oct. 23-Nov. 21

Focus on the small things, this month, Scorpio. You just turned another year wiser, so now is the time to engage in the small moments of your life. While you should acknowledge your long-term goals for the next year, immerse yourself in the moments of your life you want to hold on to.

WHICH CHARACTER ARE YOU?

BY CLAIRE SCHIOPOTA PHOTOS BY PROVIDED

The Twilight saga has captivated audiences since its initial book release in 2005. Many are obsessed with the green forestry of Forks, Washington and the love of a charming, mysterious vampire. So what if you were in the story? Would you be cold-hearted or warm-blooded? Do you prefer desert cactus or meadow lavender? Maybe you are the unique main character or a lovable side character. Take this quiz and find out:

1. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE COLOR? a. Brown b. Blue c. Green d. Red e. Purple

2. WHICH TWILIGHT MOVIE IS THE BEST?

a. Twilight b. Breaking Dawn: Part One c. New Moon d. Eclipse e. Breaking Dawn: Part Two

3. WHERE WOULD YOU RATHER VACATION?

a. Arizona b. Brazil c. Canada d. Staycation e. Italy

4. WHICH SUPERPOWER WOULD YOU LIKE TO HAVE?

a. Defensive barrier b. Telepathy c. Super strength d. Aiming accuracy e. Predicting the future

5. WHAT IS YOUR LOVE LANGUAGE? a. Physical touch b. Words of affirmation c. Acts of service d. Quality time e. Gift giving

6. VAMPIRES OR WEREWOLVES?

a. I can’t choose! b. Vampires. c. Werewolves. d. Neither; they literally are not real. e. Fairies!

7. WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN, LOCA? a. Minding my own business b. Running away from my problems c. Waiting for the story to find me d. Working and working and working e. Everywhere, doing everything, no sleep

You are our main character, our Bella Swan. While you might seem shy from the outside, everyone loves being around you. There is no one braver and more willing to risk everything for their loved ones. You can be pretty indecisive sometimes, but the end result is worth the wait.

You are the mysterious romantic, Edward Cullen. You can be stubborn and traditional, but you know how to have fun too. Still, you know your limits. You love deeply and you always know the right thing to say, almost like you can read people’s thoughts.

You are the lovable Jacob Black. You are extremely loyal to your friends and family, even if that means picking a fight. When times get tough, you like to be on your own, and you can be quite hot-headed. You are a leader and people look to you for advice. You are also super handy.

You got Charlie Swan, so you must be a parental figure in your friend group. You are a hard worker and you are incredibly honest. You really just do not deal with annoying behavior. Gaining your trust takes time, and you might seem cold but are really a teddy bear once people get to know you.

You love to make new friends and you make every moment an event. You are always one step ahead of everyone else and know exactly what to do. You are always ready to support and encourage everyone around you, and you have fun doing it.

PHOTO CREDIT: ACESHOWBIZ

PHOTO CREDIT: ACESHOWBIZ

PHOTO CREDIT: ACESHOWBIZ

PHOTO CREDIT: ACESHOWBIZ

PHOTO CREDIT: ACESHOWBIZ

SUSTAINABLY CRAFTED WITH PURPOSE

BY ERIN FINAN PHOTOS BY CLAY STARK

Jackie O’s Brewery is a cornerstone of Athens and is currently spearheading a mission toward sustainability. President of Jackie O’s, Andrew Arthur Oestrike, better known as “Art,” bought the bar in 2005 and has been making active changes to build a more sustainable presence ever since.

In 2011, the company acquired 45 acres of farmland and forest. The farm, dubbed Barrel Ridge Farm, now exists as a key supplier of seasonal vegetables and whole cone hops for both the restaurant and brewery. This practice keeps the agricultural traditions of southeast Ohio alive while also providing Jackie O’s with sustainably sourced, local ingredients.

Jackie O’s Bakeshop opened in 2019 and offers a plethora of both sweet and savory baked goods all made from scratch using ingredients from the farm. The bakery sells cookies, galettes, scones, cheesecakes, cupcakes, pepperoni rolls, hot sandwiches, and more. Oestrike recommends visiting the shop on Saturday mornings to get the best goods.

Oestrike showcases many of his sustainability efforts through blog posts on the Jackie O’s website. “I like to try to be a leader in the community and lead

by example with the different things that we do,” said Oestrike. “It’s good to give Athens things that it deserves to have.”

The company’s most recent project has been working toward opening a taproom in Columbus. In the effort of further pursuing sustainability, Jackie O’s is working with local architectural and design firms to plan the next steps for the new location. The new space will feature an outdoor greenspace and solar array.

With the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, the company has made many steps toward a better future over the past decade, and it is not stopping anytime soon. Jackie O’s has already implemented many sustainable practices including more efficient packing equipment, a carbon dioxide reclamation system, and completely biodegradable six-pack holders.

“It’s just so important to think towards the future,” said Oestrike. “And that means both for the betterment of the company, the humans who work here, the humans who purchase our products, and the Earth that we live on.”

Sunrise over Alum Creek Lake on a foggy October morning in 2022. The 3,387-acre reservoir is found within Alum Creek State Park north of Columbus, Ohio.

BY JOSH ZIELINSKI

PHOTO

EVERYONE

MCNACHTAN SHE/HER ROCK CLIMBER

BY LUCY RILEY PHOTOS BY ALIZA DUTT

PAIGE

“You run like a girl.” From youth, cis men are taught sports are only for them, and they have a physical superiority over girls and nonbinary athletes. Stereotypes that girls play with dolls and boys play with trucks have always been portrayed through television, books, and movies. The assumption that girls and boys have a clearly defined line separating them is harmful. While some outdated assumptions surrounding girls and boys may have been left behind, these assumptions have had negative effects on women and nonbinary people in outdoor sports speak for themselves.

The long held psychological debate on nature versus nurture goes beyond the limitations of academic successes and athleticism. One area of the argument is the great outdoors and its effect on children in their formative years. In a 2012 study by Journal of the American Medical Association, or JAMA, Pediatrics, results indicated that preschool age girls are 16% less likely to be taken outside by their parents than boys. As the age gap widens, so does the percentage. While 59.4% of girls ages 6 to 12 participate in outdoor sports, this number only goes down in their teen years. Statistics for transgender and gender fluid athletes have even less research and these groups often face stigma or downright discrimination when participating in sports.

The benefits of outdoor sports begin at a very early and impressionable age. Participation in outdoor sports can come in many different forms like tennis, golf, soccer, rugby, rock climbing, and even more recently, disc golf. Most people begin their outdoor sporting and nature adventures in Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts. Starting as a Daisy Scout, there are fewer badges dedicated to outdoor ventures for Girl Scouts when compared to their brother organization, who are called “Cubs.” Boy Scout merit badges have varied since the inception of the organization, including activities like animal science, backpacking, camping, canoeing, climbing, cycling, fly fishing, and hiking. Girl Scouts have only recently added some similar friendly badges of competition in fields like outdoor sporting and adventuring.

Sports like golf and disc golf have only recently seen a slight influx of women and nonbinary players. Golf began in the 1800s as a men’s leisure activity and still holds cis men at around 80% of

its participants. Similarly, disc golf only reports an average 15% female players in a typical class and a 9% racial minority.

The lack of female and nonbinary presence in the field of professional and non-professional golf is because of a multitude of factors: a shortage of representation in media coverage, less exposure, and, like most sports, a substantial pay gap. NBC Chicago reported that “male golfers averaged annually $1.25 million versus $48,993 for their female counterparts.”

On Ohio University’s campus, plenty of different outdoor clubs and recreation leagues are offered to its students. As a majority female-identifying college, determining if there is a level playing field is important. While the opportunities are present, many obstacles have to be dealt with in the pursuit of equality in outdoor sports.

Leslie Ostronic, a senior studying photojournalism, participates in women’s

rugby and rock climbing. Ostronic began her rock climbing journey during the height of the pandemic. Returning to her hometown, she began rock climbing with some of her friends. She said there are differences in physical advantages for rock climbers. Since men are typically taller, they approach routes differently, giving them an advantage in their reach.

“So, it requires women or at least shorter people in general to have to be a bit more creative or technical,” said Ostronic. “And that is kind of a big difference in rock climbing I would say, between genders when it comes down to the physical differences.”

Besides the physical aspects, rock climbing in groups such as Campus Climbs seems to have more of a gender-based balance.

As social chair of the competitive outdoor recreation league, Ostronic recognises that many people are afraid to join some sports, like rugby.

Many shy away, assuming rugby is overly violent and that they are bound to get injured.

“A lot of women’s sports and womens activities growing up are geared not to be physical,” said Ostronic. “Whereas little boys are taught to wrestle their uncles.”

This makes plenty of women and people who have been socialized against this type of activity hesitant to join in on the sport and outside activities in general.

The biggest setback the women’s rugby team faced this year involved their uniforms. After ordering their clothing for this season, they discovered that the uniforms did not fit.

“It really sucks because they’re embroidered and they’re personalized and we can’t return them, yet none of them fit,” said Ostronic. “And so we just have to share it with the men’s uniform. So they just get to have theirs because they fit because it’s normal sizing. Whereas we got a bunch of uniforms that were way too small for actual body types for the sport.”

In a sport that shares the same rules despite gender differences, the biggest differentiator is their physical size. Despite the frustrating issue, the team makes an effort to be as inclusive as possible. Women’s rugby is an incredibly LGBTQIA+ welcoming community.

“I think in Outdoor Pursuits, we really try to make sure that there’s no gatekeepers and that it’s a welcoming environment,” said Ostronic.

On the team Instagram, the group can be seen as “Ohio University Womxn’s Rugby.” The “x” is an inclusive way to invite those who may not identify as strictly female to join in on the competitive fun. The team hosted a prom for mens and womens rugby in October, declaring the court royalty and majesties instead of king and queen. Still, breaking the binary can be difficult when historically, these traditions have remained the same.

From state initiatives to college efforts, the tables are most definitely turning in a positive direction for women and nonbinary people. Companies are working to help everyone in all stages of life become comfortable on the terrain. One example is Send Femme, which is a community of adventurers with a mission to “help women (cis/non-cis) and gender minorities send male dominated outdoor sports,” according to its website.

At Ohio University, Outdoor Pursuits showed its support for women in the No Man’s Land Film Festival. The festival screened a feature film with the goal of connecting with actionoriented individuals and encouraging them to “experience their passions and environments through a uniquely feminine lens,” said the No Man’s Land film company.

LESLIE OSTRONIC

Plenty of people are looking for outlets to express their love for outdoor activities. Ways to get involved include joining clubs and rec leagues or adventuring out on one’s own to go hiking or climbing.

“A lot of women’s sports and womens activities growing up are geared not to be physical, whereas little boys are taught to wrestle their uncles.”

RILEY CLARK ILLUSTRATIONS BY CARLY HART PHOTOS BY PROVIDED

On Halloween in Athens, especially on Court Street, people are dressed up as all different kinds of characters from different parts of pop culture. Oct. 31 is everyone’s moment to be someone they are not. Halloween is a night full of booze, terror, and fun. Yet for some, this holiday is not about dressing up. Minority groups are mistreated by the cultural insensitivity of many racially motivated costumes. As cultural awareness becomes more of a discussion, there is simply no excuse not to think before choosing a Halloween costume.

What is cultural appropriation?

Cultural appropriation occurs when members of a majority group adopt elements of a minority group in a stereotypical, disrespectful, and blatantly exploitative nature, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica. In the instance of Halloween, this can include styling hair, wearing clothing, or impersonating a dialect to fit another persona.

How has Ohio University taken initiative?

Founded in 1988 by Dr. Sheila Williams and Louise Annarino, Students Teaching About Racism in Society, or STARS, is a peer education organization that has evolved from a class into a movement. Their mission statement states that the organization “aim(s) to raise awareness about social justice, and promote racial harmony.” STARS launched a campaign designed to educate and bring awareness to cultural appropriation associated with costuming. The “We’re a Culture Not a Costume” campaign launched in 2011 and is entirely student run. The campaign, which received national recognition, consists of a series of posters showcasing appropriative costumes.

Former President of STARS and Ohio U alumna, Alexis Evans, largely influenced the My Culture is Not Your Costume movement in Athens. Being impacted by cultural appropriation herself, Evans yearned for a sense of belonging at a predominantly white institution.

“STARS felt like a safe place where I could discuss issues on race and feel understood,” said Evans. Upon finding a place for her voice to be heard, Evans did not waste a minute.

As the campaign progressed into its second year, Evans came up with the tagline, “You wear the costume for one night, I wear the stigma for life.” This phrase encapsulates the entire movement. Emulating another race for a night is not worth the turmoil forced upon those who are negatively impacted.

As more and more people open their minds to the idea of equality and equal representation in this modernized world, more voices come together to create a power unknown to generations prior. Evan suggests ways to progress toward change by “exposing yourself to diverse online creators, reading books from authors that have different backgrounds, or expanding your friend groups to include people outside of just your own race.” Change can start by being mindful.

PHOTO CREDIT: “WE’RE A CULTURE NOT A COSTUME” CAMPAIGN

“You wear the costume for one night, I wear the stigma for life.”

ALEXIS EVANS

Nature’s Spirit in Studio Ghibli

BY AMY SZMIK ILLUSTRATIONS BY JOCELYN PAXTON

Studio Ghibli, the Japanese animation company, has been critically acclaimed for its films. With popular titles like Spirited Away , Princess Mononoke , and My Neighbor Totoro, many of the thematic elements found in the stories can be tied into nature and humanity. Hayao Miyazaki, one of the founders of the studio, creates stories that expand on environmentalism and its connection to humans, and what could happen if we do not treat nature the way it should be.

In Japan, nature is important for historical and cultural reasons. According to editors from About Japan, “Japanese culture is suffused with a profound aesthetic appreciation of nature, traditional value systems and place great emphasis on respect for the natural environment.” This is an important factor as to why nature is such a big part of Studio Ghibli films. Japanese culture has praised nature for thousands of years with religions like Shintoism, and it is necessary to make this appreciation for nature prevalent in the films. While many of the films are older, they relate to the changing times that occurred when they came out.

In the film Princess Mononoke , the main character Ashitaka, tries to protect the Great Forest Spirit from the citizens of Iron Town and their leader, Lady Eboshi, who wants to destroy the spirit. Princess Mononoke is one of the clearest examples from Studio Ghibli’s roster that focuses on environmentalism. It explores the dynamics among the humans of this mining town where they can live in peace and in the forest of spirits and gods. The titular character, Princess Mononoke, is the in-between character, meaning she was

CREDIT: STUDIO GHIBLI

PHOTO

raised by wolves yet she is human. She despises humans and wants to save the forest, the humans in the town want to destroy the forest so they may live in a prosperous town, and Ashitaka wants both sides to stop the fighting. The story shows how the destruction of the forest has repercussions not only for the forest inhabitants but the townspeople as well. In the end, the forest and town are both destroyed. However, the film does not villainize the people of Iron Town, as it explores the human element as well. This conflicts with what the nature spirits want but also shows that humans need to progress somehow. Humans must learn how to coexist with nature.

What makes Studio Ghibli so distinctive is that the characters and relationships are not portrayed as black and white. The forest and the humans both desire to grow with each other. According to Big Think, the thematic elements of these films tie in with Shintoism because the religion believes the natural world is inhabited by spirits. As mentioned before, spirits live in the forest and make up the nature of the world that Miyazaki has built. Infusing nature, humanity, and religion together creates a compelling story that does not have a clearcut ending. There is one thing that is clear to viewers though: the destruction of nature will also destroy humanity.

My Neighbor Totoro has a different perspective on the human relationship with nature. The story follows sisters Satsuki and Mei, who are staying in a village while their mother heals from an illness. They befriend a spirit, Totoro, and the other spirits who are with him. Rather than a story depicting the clash between nature and human progression, it

PHOTO CREDIT: STUDIO GHIBLI

focuses on the peacefulness of nature. The film just shows the two children being friends with Totoro. Once again, the themes of Shintoism come into play with the significance of the tree where Totoro resides and the forest that the girls want to plant for their mother. Again, Shinto believes that the natural world is inhabited by spirits, depicted

as Totoro in this story, and we see spirits living in nature through Ghibli films. In My Neighbor Totoro there is a beautiful relationship between humans and nature. They exist peacefully with each other and the film shows that nature is crucial for humanity’s survival. The contrast between Princess Mononoke and My Neighbor Totoro

exhibits two ways humans can exist with nature, one violent and one peaceful.

Spirited Away , one of Studio Ghibli’s most popular films, mixes the ever-changing landscape of Japan with environmental issues. The main character, Chihiro, finds her parents turned into pigs after going through a mysterious tunnel to another world. As Chihiro tries to change her family back, she ends up working in a bath house for spirits and other supernatural entities. A very prominent scene in the film occurs when a “stink spirit” arrives at the bathhouse and Chihiro pulls out pollution, revealing it to be a river spirit corrupted by the pollution left by humans. There are various other allusions that represent humans’ destruction of the environment and corruption of nature. According to Hashchand, these environmental issues and greed also reflect

Japan’s struggling economy during the ’90s and early 2000s, and Miyazaki relates them to each other. The economy was struggling because of people’s greed and overconsumption, which left them no longer caring for or respecting the environment. There was overdevelopment, represented by the abandoned amusement park Chihiro’s family finds, and how they have all been created in place of nature. Haku, one of the main characters, was also a spirit and humans destroyed his home to build apartments.

All of these films, among other Studio Ghibli films, send a very poignant message of human destruction done to the environment. These messages are not presented directly in front of your face; instead, the religious and cultural

ILLUSTRATION CREDIT: HAYAO MIYAZAKI

themes of the film help push the narrative of how people must respect the environment. Studio Ghibli’s repeated environmental themes showcase nature’s beauty, importance, and the necessity to care for it. The films have always had a strong connection to nature, and the cultural parts show that it goes beyond just not cutting down trees, it is the philosophy and belief that nature is sacred. The tie-in with Japanese culture helps viewers interpret the messages on their own and allows them to really think about how people treat nature.

ILLUSTRATION CREDIT: HAYAO MIYAZAKI

ILLUSTRATION CREDIT: HAYAO MIYAZAKI

THE MOTH, THE MYTH, THE LEGEND

BY ISABELLA CONEGLIO ILLUSTRATION BY CARLY HART

Lurking in old West Virginia folklore and Appalachian mystery lies Mothman, a sevenfoot winged creature. The red-eyed monster was allegedly first seen in the quaint town of Clendenin, West Virginia. In November of 1966, whilst in a cemetery, five men saw a strange figure lift itself off a tree in the distance. Seen again that night, rumors spewed through the suburb, instilling both fear and paranoia. Townspeople Roger and Linda Scarberry and Steve and Mary Mallette reported they outran this creature while traveling by a TNT plant on Highway 62. That same night, 90 miles north, Newell Partridge, a local Salem contractor, endured a frightening encounter while watching television. As the screen abruptly went black, he heard a peculiar high-pitched wail from outside. After this, Partridge observed his hunting dog, Bandit, staring at their hay barn in the distance. As he shined his flashlight in that direction, a pair of reflective red eyes met him. He returned inside to retrieve his gun as the dog shot off toward the figure. Soon after, Partridge decided not to engage further with this creature, although he slept with his gun at his side all night. The next morning, Bandit did not greet his owner as usual. A few days later, with the dog still missing, Partridge read about the Point Pleasant sighting in the local paper. While he read Roger Scarberry’s statement describing a dead dog on the side of the road near the creature, he thought of Bandit, who was never seen again. That year, the Mothman lingered through superstition, described as an omen of doom.

The public was magnetized to the town, and so-called “monster hunters,” researchers, and investigators rallied in Point Pleasant. American author John Keel

also ventured to town in light of the reports and is now predominantly known for his writings regarding the Mothman. However, in December of 1967 when the Silver Bridge suddenly collapsed, the full legend of the Mothman was solidified. The 7-foot bridge which connected Point Pleasant to Gallipolis, Ohio fell during rush hour traffic, causing cars to submerge into the waters of the Ohio River and killing 46 people.

While investigators attribute the collapse to poor architecture and weight overload, others believed the Mothman sightings were linked to the tragedy. Directly after this, civilians came forward with sightings and theories. Some proposed that curiosity is what drew the creature to the recent bridge collapse. While others claim to have seen the Mothman’s bat-like figure near the fallen bridge, implying the creature brought calamity with it. During this time, Keel became the primary reporter. In his book, “The Mothman Prophecies,”

Keel claimed there were over 100 witnesses claiming to have seen the Mothman between 1966 and 1967.

Over the decades the legitimacy of the Mothman has become controversial, with many believing that the sightings are merely nonsense. As time went on, the winged creature seemed to disappear from existence, only making its name as a suburban legend and murderous wanderer of Appalachia. In present time, the media portrays eyewitness accounts as a cynical hoax rooted in madness. The legend of the Mothman, now considered a creature of myth, has been stripped of its wonder with today’s technology and dampened curiosity. Mothman exists only in fumes of imagination, remaining one of the many mysteries of Appalachia.

PHOTO CREDIT: ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH NEWS

FROM AND FOR OUR OCEANS

BY KITTY CRINO PHOTOS BY PROVIDED

“I’m just one person. It’s just one plastic straw. My actions alone won’t make a difference,” said nearly 8 billion people across the globe. This mindset is the reason there are still over 10 million tons of plastic left floating in the oceans each year. In order to decrease this number, each and every person must take responsibility for their actions and live more conscientiously. Breaking habits such as buying a single-use plastic bottle may seem difficult, and adopting new habits like bringing one’s own to-go-cup to a favorite coffee shop may seem even harder. However, companies such as 4Ocean and Mermaid Straw have made these eco-friendly habits easily accessible and easy to adapt to.

4Ocean was founded in January 2017 with the mission to reduce plastic waste in our oceans. The company has fulltime cleanup crews working to clean the millions of tons of ocean plastic every single day. One of the first products 4Ocean produced were bracelets made of recycled materials. The

purchase of each product equates to pulling one pound of trash

pulling one pound of trash from the ocean. 4Ocean also offers an option for customers to send any 4Ocean products that are no longer being used back to the company, and workers will repurpose or dispose of the products in the most sustainable way possible.

stainless steel cups, reusable Ziploc bags, and, in a recent collaboration with FinalStraw, a collapsible stainless steel straw. All of these products are made from or in combination

Another company that has joined in on the stainless steel straw uprise is Mermaid Straws. This company offers a wide range of colorful, patterned stainless steel straws and accessories (yes, reusable straws have accessories), including colorful silicone comfort straw tips, and locally handmade, eco-friendly, patterned zipper pouches for storage. Mermaid Straws proudly uses compostable, zero plastic packaging, which alleviates some of the guilt that can come with the concerning amount of energy and resources

“The

from the ocean.”

save

be shipped to one’s home. According to the company’s website, “We believe it is the company’s responsibility, not the consumers’, to be forward thinking and conscientious of the amount of waste that comes with each order and its impact on our environment.” The positive impact does not stop there. Mermaid Straws also has a cleanup crew that frequents 346 locations worldwide including 38 different countries. The company has also been featured in Forbes, Vogue, Reader’s Digest , and many other news outlets.

Next time the server at a restaurant pulls a handful of straws out of their apron for the table, saying something as effortless as, “We don’t need straws today, thank you!” Can make a world of a difference. With this simple request, individuals can personally save an average of over 580 plastic straws from ending up in the oceans each year. Not only can anyone help save the planet, but they can do it fashionably and affordably. Support sustainable businesses such as these and Mother Nature will thank you.

“Not only can anyone help

the planet, but they can do it fashionably and affordably.”

PHOTO CREDIT: 4OCEAN

RANT/RAVE CAMO

ILLUSTRATIONS BY AVERY ALLISON

RANT

BY ABBEY MENZA

Camo seems to have made an unfortunate comeback from the trend in the late ’80s and early ’90s. The camo print is incredibly difficult to style. Not only are there better alternatives such as solid colored cargo pants or baggy jeans, but camo simply does not look good paired with anything. The pattern itself is too difficult to pair with anything, so any outfits attempting to incorporate camo end up looking uncoordinated.

The grunge style from the ’90s has recently made a huge comeback, with baggy pants and shirts coming more into style, but camo should be left out of this resurgence. There are many other ’90s trends that are much more fashion forward and considerably more stylish, like leather jackets or slip dresses. Camo pants also tend to be uncomfortable, so the appeal is hard to see. Some love the print, and some hate it. At the end of the day, camo should not be the first thing people grab out of their closets.

RAVE

BY KATY SNODGRASS

The return of camo print clothing is just one of many recycled early 2000s trends making their way back into modern fashion. Camo’s comeback has stirred up mixed emotions in the fashion community as many debate the print’s ability to be styled in new and interesting ways.

One of the most popular articles of camo clothing right now has been the resurgence of camo cargo pants. Often big, baggy, and sitting lower on the hips, cargo pants have been one of the hottest trouser trends in the last few years. Camo brings an exciting texture and print while maintaining a neutral color palette and adding a more interesting element than just plain khaki cargos.

Camo’s renaissance has also been brought about with the revitalization of ’90s and early 2000s grunge styles. Mid-to-low-rise pants have made their grand return into fashion, kicking high-rise mom jeans to the curb. This new Y2K trend emphasizes a thinner, more boyish kind of silhouette than the curvy, hour-glass figure that has been popularized throughout the 2010s. Also making masculine fashions and silhouettes to be more desired with other hot fashion trends being leather, latex, and loose fitting clothes.

However, the camo trend does not stop at cargo pants. Camo has popped up in a variety of different designer’s collections, including Dolce &

Gabbana’s Spring/Summer 2022 collection. D&G’s collection plays with the militant uniform aspects of camo, using the print in oversized jackets, matching sweat suits, and even bucket hats and combat boots.

The runway is not the only place camo has made a resurgence, as the LGBTQ+ community has also taken a liking to the signature print. A recent trend within marginalized groups has been to reclaim slurs, references, and now fashion trends that were once used derogatorily against them.

Whether people love to see camo back or cannot wait to watch it go, the print has definitely made a comeback both on and off the runway.