FREE EVERY MONDAY VOL. 25 ISS. 31 • MAY 24, 2021 THETACOMALEDGER.COM

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TLC resources for finals week P3 2 MAY 24, 2021 THE LEDGER NEWS

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IMAGE 1: COURTESY OF FOOD IS FREE ON FACEBOOK. IMAGE 2: COURTESY OF DAVID THOMPSON. Food is Free seeks to provide free, fresh produce or anyone who needs it. Food is Free Washington President, David Thompson awith his wife and garden coordinator, Ursula Thompson. Building community with food: Food is Free Washington President of Food is Free Washington, David Thompson, speaks about the fresh produce and food he and his team provide for all Tacomans.

By Rosie Mendoza-Bautista Tacoma’s food deserts — parts of Ta- Currently, Thompson and his team ticular, they are looking for a food If you are in need of food assis- News Reporter coma where individuals lack access are preparing for this upcoming sum- rescue coordinator and garden crew tance, you may go up to a Food is Free to affordable and nourishing food mer and the goals they have in mind to assist them in their goals. sign or reach out via facebook for more The Ledger had the privilege to items. Thompson says these large to continue their work. However, even with his team how information and assistance. You can speak to the president of Food is Free food deserts are evident in East and In this upcoming year, Free Food it is, they have already seen the fruits also sign up with the app called Fresh Washington, David Thompson. He South Tacoma. Washington is pushing to build 30 of their labor. Especially throughout Food Connect that works to get food provided some context and details “On the Eastside, there’s an esti- more gardens around Tacoma. this pandemic, Food is Free Wash- delivered directly to those in need. about the non-profit organization mate that 60,000 people don’t have a Thompsons sees the need for gardens ington has been able to help give food that provides free fresh produce and grocery store. Then, if you go to in Central and South Tacoma along directly to the people. food to residents all over Washington South Tacoma, there’s only one gro- with the need for garden support. “There’s no means of testing. We — the majority of this information cery store on the other side of I-5. Another large goal they’re work- just give food to everybody. The little For more information stems from the branch based in Ta- South Tacoma is the other unsaid ing on is the 20% initiative. This ini- tables in neighborhoods have helped on receiving or coma. food desert,” he said. tiative would make it so that 20% of a lot of people and have become a This organization began because Because of this issue, Food is Free fresh fruits and vegetables that are lifeline for some. For our unhoused dontating food: Thompson had a surplus of food. “I aims to accomplish many tasks to consumed in Tacoma would be grown population, it has become a real life- Facebook: had way too much produce. I was provide food security. They have dif- locally whether it be through com- line for them,” he said. https://www.facebook.com/ trying to give it to the neighbors. I ferent divisions to meet these goals. munity supported agriculture, urban Overall, Free Food in Washington emeraldstatefood/ was trying to get my kids and family They have Food Rescue, which con- farms or home gardeners. has one mission. And this mission Website: to get it,” he said. “But I had too much sists of grocery stores giving away “At the beginning of the pandem- includes not only providing food se- https://foodisfreewashington. stuff; I couldn’t get rid of all of it, and food that close to expiration, but not ic, we saw store shelves empty. This curity for Tacomans, but Thompson org/volunteer/ it was too much fun to grow. So, I expired, to Free Food Washington. was a result of our supply chain also hopes that Food is Free helps found Food is Free on Facebook, and “We’re going to do FIG share days. breaking. What we can do by bring- build community amongst commu- Other website: we started from there.” They will begin on July 11. These are ing just 20% of our fresh fruits and nity members in Tacoma. foodisfree253.com Thus, this venture with Food is events that will happen every Sunday vegetables back to Tacoma, [is that] “Food is Free is all about building Instagram: Free turned into Food is Free Wash- and all summer and into fall. We will we could help stabilize that food communities and using food as the @tacomaurbanfarmer ington that started in 2015 and pros- be giving food away at local parks. chain system,” Thompson said. tool to do so,” Thompson said .“The pered from then. Now, his wife and We have a rotating schedule of four Because of all the plans they are whole idea is to get to know your Volunteer: fellow volunteers work to secure free parks,” Thompson said. tasked with both currently and in the neighbors and have your neighbors https://foodisfreewashington. org/volunteer/ produce for all Tacomans. They also focus on gardening and future, they find themselves very busy come up and talk about the garden. This concern for accessibility of building up new gardens. Street gar- with the amount they do and are ac- Gardening is a universal thing that free produce and food came from dens are something they’ve created. tively seeking new members. In par- can draw all kinds of people together.”

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e p UWT’s weekly student publication l Email: [email protected] Managing Editor ...... Alyssandra Goss Photographer....Nickolus Patraszewski May 24, 2021 | Vol. 25, Issue 31 News Editor ...... Garrett Yaen Opinion Editor ...... Andrea Nadal Design A&E Editor...... Madeline Hiller Page Designer...... Natalie Peyton thetacomaledger.com ZOOM Office Hours: Page Designer...... Phong Ngyuen Monday 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 3 - 5 p.m. Tuesday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Staff Writers facebook.com/uwtledger Wednesday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. News Reporter...Rosie Mendoza-Bautista Cover Art Thursday 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 1 - 4 p.m. Opinion Columnist ...... Bengisu Incetas by Natalie Peyton 9 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. & 3 - 5 p.m. @uwtledger Friday Opinion Columnist ...... Madi Williams Zoom Link: A&E Columnist...... Lore Zent Managers @uwtledger https://washington.zoom. Film Critic...... Henry Nguyen Web Manager...... Morgan Morgans Advisor us/s/91636229141 Sports Columnist...... Brooks Moeller Layout Manager...... Morgan Morgans Publications Manager...... Daniel Nash NEWS THE LEDGER MAY 24, 2021 3 TLC resources for finals week UW Tacoma tutors, tutees and teachers offer resources and advice for finals week.

By Garrett Yaen ting up an appointment immediately. She explained that even if tutoring studying for an exam becomes a more News Editor "...we are more than “We’re pretty quick in giving re- sessions have gone virtual, it hasn't fluid and less stressful process. Cao said sponses and we have to be strategic affected her love for the TLC because that those who pay attention to the As final exams loom students need welcome to help on about what feedback we give, given it still helps her focus. resources shared by the professors also not brave the storm alone. The Teach- the TLC website for that we don’t have unlimited time,” “Before the library shut down, I tend to focus on conceptual under- ing & Learning Center is here to give 1-on-1 Zoom ses- Guzman said. “So, if they come in would always study at the library standing of the material, instead of its virtual shelter to those needing a with a 15-page paper wanting to cor- whether I was with friends or not cramming their brains at the last min- push through finals. sions, we also have rect all the grammar mistakes with because just by being in that environ- ute which doesn’t encourage deeper According to TLC Writing Consul- other services that 30 minutes on the clock, we’re not ment where there are people around learning or long-term memory. tant Renee Anne Marie Guzman, in can give quicker help going to be able to help them as much studying, you can’t help but want to She noted that this helps them reflect addition to improving their learning as we like. And they’re not going to study too,” Markley said. “Even on previous mistakes made on home- skills, the TLC also helps students pre- or knowledge with- get as much out of the session com- though the in-person feeling is gone, work and previous tests. Thus, they are pare for exams and/or final papers on out having to file a pared to if they read our resources I would still think tutoring sessions more resourceful when seeking help nearly any subject they choose. More session,” about grammar, and come in with the to be helpful for anyone who has from their instructors and classmates. than this, the TLC also works to pro- parts they’re most confused about.” ADD or can’t study by themselves.” With some final last words of ad- vide students with resources to help having to file a session,” Guzman said. “It can be kind of overwhelming Accounting Professor Dr. Zhiyan vice, Cao encouraged students to be them learn outside of the classroom to These other resources include a for both the tutee and sometimes the Cao is no stranger to final exams. Dr. more meticulous in their planning to make tutoring sessions more effective. 24-hour live chat where students can tutor,” she said. “These are final Cao noted that throughout her time encourage further success and gave Students looking to use the TLC rely on a staff member to answer any things that we have to go through in students different ways in which they can start by surfing its website, where questions they may have while wait- detail, so it becomes repetitive.” can study. they create an account, start a 1-on- ing for a tutor. Guzman also pointed To help the tutors help the tutees, “Don’t be afraid to “Make a plan before starting your 1 session with a tutor and have some- to other web pages, such as a resource coming in with a specific issue or reach out when you review,” Cao said. “Join a study group one look over how they work. center for students confused with question you have surrounding the need help,” to push each other to understand bet- Guzman explained that one of the their writing. work you're doing helps maximize ter. Note cards could be helpful as the differences between students who On their own, students can read the 30 minutes you have. mere act of preparing them helps to make average progress with Zoom handouts and guides on writing sub- “Really use the resources,” Guz- at UWT, she said she’s come to notice solidify and visualize your under- consulting sessions compared to jects, like grammar and citations. In man said. “We have a lot of helpful that students who do well on their standing of a subject. Review work- those who end up with great Zoom turn, these sources allow for better time things on the TLC website that are final exams make the most of learn- shops offered by the TLC could also consulting sessions are those who management of the following tutoring always prepared when you come into ing resources offered by their profes- be helpful.” make proper and consistent usage of and consulting sessions. These guides the Zoom. People think 30 minutes sors, peers, and the campus. the TLC resources outside of the tra- and handouts are not limited to writing, is a long time but always come in with “Don’t be afraid to reach out ditional 1-on-1 sessions. the same sources can be found in quan- a goal but we don’t want the students when you need help,” Cao said. “Stu- Students looking to learn “One of the biggest things to note titative subjects, such as formula sheets to feel overwhelmed.” dents who do well on their final ex- get their journey started is that although we are more than for math students. Student Paris Markley, a repeat ams tend to pay close attention to can surf to welcome to help on the TLC website Essentially, if students want to save visitor of the TLC, noted the benefits expectations and resources shared by the professor during the last few https://www.tacoma.uw.edu/ for 1-on-1 Zoom sessions, we also some time and more efficiently learn the it provides during last minute study- teaching-learning-center/ have other services that can give subjects that are taught, they can look ing. For her, simply being with others weeks’ instruction.” teaching-learning-center quicker help or knowledge without and read the resources online versus set- is a great way to focus on studying. This makes it so that the process of

PHOTO COURTESY OF PIXABAY The TLC offers free tutoring and help sessions for students in all subjects. 4 MAY 24, 2021 THE LEDGER OPINION State of Emergency: The people of Puerto Rico demand justice Months after a state of emergency was officially declared, money has finally been approved to combat gender-based violence.

COURTESY OF MELANIE M. RODRíGUEZ ROSADO Protests for Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rosselló to resign for discriminatory remarks. Bodypaint by Melanie M. Rodriguez Rosado.

By Andrea Nadal this governmental interference, Zoán in regards to gender and sexuality. With in Puerto Rico since last February, ac- countries of the global south, many in Opinion Editor Dávila-Roldán, a co-founder of Colec- that in mind, there is a push for LGBTQ+ cording to the Transgender Law Center.” the global north consider it to be an issue tiva Feminista en Construcción told individuals to be included in the gender- This makes it painfully clear that we of “lesser developed” countries and ig- The movement around gender- Corujo that "A state of emergency only based violence emergency declaration. must expand the ways in which we un- nore the realities of gender-based vio- based violence has been building in seen in paper are dead words." In her article for NBC discussing this derstand gender-based violence. It is an lence within their own borders along Puerto Rico for years now, "This year Finally, money has been allocated to push, Carmen Sesin explains that the issue that is deeply rooted in the norms with the connection of this issue to the alone there have been at least 21 femi- solving this issue “The $7 million, now executive order 2021-013 “directs more of heteropatriarchy. These norms have colonialism perpetrated by their country. cides, per the Puerto Rico Gender approved, will help reinforce the work resources to combating the wave of kill- created a hostile environment for not Examples of gender-based violence Equality Observatory; since 2010, more of the specialized committee called ings and other violence directed at only women, but also for those that de- exist all over the globe and often impact than 150 women have been killed by PARE, an acronym in Spanish that women and girls.” viate from heteropatriarchal norms in marginalized populations at higher rates. their intimate partners; and last year, means Prevention, Support, Rescue and such a way as to challenge their rele- This violence, like many other forms of six transgender women were mur- Education of Gender Violence. It was vance and value in society. violence, is exacerbated by inequality and dered," said Andrea González-Ramírez created after the state of emergency was "Political project of These norms were created as a way disenfranchisement. As the distribution said in her 2021 article for The Cut. declared and consists of organizations the tradition of black to not only empower cisgender of wealth and resources becomes wider, Gender-based violence (GBV) is that work closely with experts and rep- feminism, articulat- straight males, but also to enforce the the likelihood of this kind of violence violence directed at an individual based resentatives from gubernatorial agen- nuclear family ideals of heterosexual- increases. on their biological sex or gender iden- cies,” explained Corujo. ing the fight against ity. Thus creating a society that is de- Not only has colonialism exported tity, it may also be directed at an indi- Colectiva Feminista en Construc- heteropatriarchy, pendent on the power of cisgender the heteropatriarchy that makes this form vidual based on their sexuality. Wom- ción is a “Political project of the tradi- anti-black violence heterosexual males within it. of violence inevitable, colonial powers en for Women International explains tion of black feminism, articulating The issue of gender-based violence have created a capitalist world economy that “It includes physical, sexual, verbal, the fight against heteropatriarchy, and capitalism" is not unique to the context of Puerto that allows the distribution of wealth to emotional, and psychological abuse, anti-black violence and capitalism.” If Rico, rather, it must be understood continue to become more inequitable. threats, coercion, and economic or we are to create a truly equitable so- She goes on to explain that “[w]hile that colonial-capitalism is the founda- As wealth is consolidated in the hands educational deprivation, whether oc- ciety where this and other sorts of the governor's executive order includes tion for this and many other forms of of the few, the masses are made to carry curring in public or private life.” targeted violence are no longer an is- violence against trans women, two hu- targeted violence. The heteropatriar- that burden. A state of emergency around gender- sue, these are the exact powers that man rights groups on the island urged chy that is enforced by the form of The issue of gender-based violence based violence was declared on Jan. 24, we must fight against. that the executive order include violence colonial-capitalism we see across the and all other forms of targeted violence yet for months the government failed to It is important to recognize that against all LGBT people.” Further, Sesin globe is the root cause of gender-based cannot truly be solved until we disman- use the state of emergency to implement gender-based violence can manifest in notes that “ … a transgender man was violence around the world. tle the colonial-capitalist powers that meaningful solutions. In Cristina Coru- many forms and be experienced by found shot to death. He was the seventh The term femicide has become syn- thrive off of heteropatriarchy, anti-black- jo’s 2021 article for ABC News regarding people of various marginalized identities known transgender person to be killed onymous with so-called “third-world” ness and all other forms of inequality. OPINION THE LEDGER MAY 24, 2021 5 Reflecting on our thoughts Over the course of a few weeks and throughout the pandemic we have seen and witnessed hate crimes, human rights viola- tions, racism and more. Let’s take a moment to reflect on our mental health.

By Bengisu Cicek you need to give your time and energy. Opinion Columnist A spiritual and enlightening book on this topic is “Reclaim your Heart” by Yasmin Since the pandemic, we have received Mogahed, a specialist in spirituality, psy- so much news concerning events hap- chology and personal development. pening within the United States and While the intended audience is Mus- around the world. From the Black Lives lims, this book is open for everyone and Matter protests to the Uyghur Turks de- can be a good perspective for people from tained in East Turkestan in China’s con- other religions and backgrounds to reflect centration camps and now with Palestin- on their mental wellbeing. Enlightening ians being killed and colonized by the ourselves about other religions and their state of Israel. perspective of life is a good way to un- We have seen so much social media derstand one another more and recognize activism, protests, leaders preaching in how the world functions! the name of justice and people lobbying “The enduring life is the one that in Congress and state governments for begins once we awaken from this world. legislation that will serve minority and And it is in that awakening that we real- oppressed groups. ize… It was only a dream,” said Mogahed on page 91. We are oftentimes caught up with "The enduring life is this world so much. We fantasize the one that begins about the many blessings of this earth once we awaken from but we get overly attached to them too. We live, we make mistakes and this world. And it is we do good deeds, but what matters in that awakening is that we learn from them. that we realize… It Sometimes we take life so seri- ously that we get too caught up in try- was only a dream" ing to impress and prove ourselves to others, making sure we appear perfect, We may have taken our own stance achieve the best and constantly think in this advocacy, whether it’s reposting about pleasing everyone. What about on social media, calling our representa- ourselves? Mogahed brings up a good tives, attending protests or listening to point that life can be but a dream and people’s stories. When we are supporting it’s what we prep our lives for is reality. one cause, other causes may gain atten- On page 42, a tradition of the beloved tion as well and it can feel overwhelming Prophet Muhammad (peace and bless- to support so many movements at once. ings be upon him), was mentioned, Unfortunately, there are a lot of human where he said “Whoever makes the Here- rights violations that are going on around after his preoccupation, then Allah the world, some of which are not even places freedom from want in his heart, on the news yet. gathers his affairs, and Dunya (worldly When watching the news, looking at life) comes to him despite being reluctant the many events going on, trying to edu- to do so. And whoever makes Dunya his cate ourselves and support the right side preoccupation, then Allah places his can be overwhelming if we are not si- poverty in front of his eyes, makes his multaneously taking care of ourselves. affairs scattered, and nothing of the Du- If we lay in bed and look at our nya comes to him except that which has phones first thing in the morning when been decreed for him.” [Ar-Tirmidhi] we wake up and see updates from around I believe this is beautiful because it the world, it can impact our mood and shows us an important aspect of life: ability to function throughout the day. If it’s temporary. No matter how much we get out of bed right after waking up, we chase after things in this life and COURTESY OF @YASMINMOGAHED open the window, get a glass of water, world, it will never satisfy us because Reclaim your Heart by Yasmin Mogahed. breathe in the fresh air and ignore our we will want more or something better tion is proportional to the degree of Mogahed brings up many different ferent. So different. If I let go, will You phones for a while, we would likely have than that. If we focus our intentions attachment,” said Mogahed on page 36. topics and sections in her book, such as take me higher? Above grief, want, a better start to our days. toward healing, growing, becoming a I believe that we can truly gain free- attachments, love, hardships, relationship loss. Above all that I’ve ever known. You need to take care of yourself be- better person and doing what is right, dom, peace and happiness if we detach with the creator, women’s status, ummah Take me higher. Unbind me from the fore you can be there for other people. then that will have a permanent impact ourselves from the world. Meaning, by and poetry. To conclude, I want to share earth. Like a vaccine, it sickens, to This means creating boundaries around on us and on our future. not spending too much time focusing a meaningful poem called “The Stab” by make you stronger. The stab is tem- the amount of news you consume and “If there is anything--or anyone- our energy on people, places, things that Yasmin Mogahed, included in her book, porary. The freedom, eternal.” time you spend scrolling through the -that losing would absolutely break us, will detract from the relationship we have and I wish I could include more text of This poem is meaningful to me many social media posts regarding what’s we have a false attachment. False at- with ourselves in a negative way. her beautiful words. because it expresses that no matter going on in the world. Creating these tachments are things that we fear losing By detaching ourselves from the “Don’t grieve at the stab. It’s only how hurtful life’s tests and hardships boundaries will not make you selfish or almost to a pathological extent. It is world and not allowing it to control meant to free you. From the chains can be, it is only meant to make us any less of an ally or good human being. something that if we even sense is drift- us, we are able to focus solely on our- that bind you to the earth and shack- stronger. What is important is that Boundaries create a healthier version ing away, we will desperately pursue. selves so that we may help others. We le you to the shadows of people. The Allah is able to take us out from these of you which will enable you to perform We chase it because losing an object of start to understand and see the true mirage of water cannot quench. But hardships and grant us tranquility and and express your allyship even better attachment causes complete devasta- meaning of life and are able to read is so beautiful to the thirsty. I’m afraid. happiness, so it’s important to have because you will know when and where tion, and the severity of that devasta- ourselves and other people. Of never knowing another life. Dif- Tawakkul (trusting in Allah’s plan). 6 MAY 24, 2021 THE LEDGER OPINION Hazard pay update Pierce County is showing their true colors and how they feel about giving hazard pay to grocery workers. By Maddi Williams Dammeier’s, intent to veto the ordi- in support of the ordinance, it went up a year into this, some of the public is of hazard pay for the people within Opinion Columnist nance, they go into detail about the to Dammeier who, within ten minutes done wearing masks and go into the their county. contents of said ordinance. “Under of getting the ordinance, sent out an stores without them. This is something The United Food and Commercial the ordinance, stores over 10,000 email explaining why he was going to that grocery workers see every day, and Workers labor union 367 has been square feet in size primarily selling veto it. it is something that I have witnessed Since Dammeier working tirelessly trying to get the groceries, or stores with 10,000 On May 5, UFCW 367 went down as well. declined supporting workers within their county boundar- square feet of space dedicated to sell- to the county building in Tacoma where But the grocery workers are told hazard pay, UFCW ies to get the hazard pay that they so ing groceries would be required to President Angel Gonzalez and two not to ask customers to put on masks deserve. They have been pushing to pay workers an additional $4 an members plus the media walked up to because if customers get mad and 367 has shifted their get grocery workers to listen in on hour,” they said. Bruce Dammeier’s office to have a con- stop shopping there because they efforts to the cities, their city council and county meetings UFCW 367 President Angel Gon- versation with him. A few minutes have to wear a mask, then the stores pushing them to to tell them about their experiences zalez provided me with some informa- later he came into the conference room will lose money, which is something of working in a grocery store during tion about how much these companies and listened to what they had to say, the CEOs don't want. So, they put support the local the pandemic. have been making since the beginning along with the number of signatures their workers at risk because money grocery workers. But In King 5’s 2021 article discussing of the pandemic. In 2019, Albertsons from grocery workers and the public is more important than keeping the cities have not the Pierce County Executive, Bruce — which also includes Safeway — made of those who support the hazard pay people safe. $399 million in profits. Kroger made getting passed. Dammeier's response to everything done anything to $1,659 million in profits in 2019. was “ … if grocery stores are unsafe, help the workers. In 2019, Albertsons In 2020, Albertsons made $994 mil- then make them safer, not more expen- — which also lion in profit through Sept. As for Those who work sive,” as stated in the King 5 article. He includes Safeway — Kroger, they made $2,585 million in at the grocery also noted that “the best way to reduce Since Dammeier declined support- profit up to Sept. in 2020. These com- stores have been COVID-19 risk is for more people to ing hazard pay, UFCW 367 has shifted made $399 in profits. panies are saying that they don't have get vaccinated,” and then pushed gro- their efforts to the cities, pushing them Kroger made $1,659 the money to give workers hazard pay, on the front lines cery workers to get vaccinated at the to support the local grocery workers. million in profits but with the skyrocketing profits made throughout this Tacoma Dome. But the cities have not done anything in 2020 it’s clear that they have the pandemic, putting In a Facebook live, Dammeier went to help the workers, many are keeping in 2019. In 2020, funds they just don't want to. on to say that UFCW 367 that it is not the hazard pay issue at the committee Albertsons made “Hazard pay has been implemented themselves and their the county’s responsibility to get into level, meaning if the committee has $994 million in profit throughout cities and counties in west- families at risk since big business issues and that UFCW 367 not passed it then it does not go up to ern Washington, including Seattle and the beginning. needs to do more bargaining with the the city officials who will actually vote through Sept. As for King County,” giving UFCW 367 a companies — despite their efforts to on it. Kroger, they made solid foundation for their demand for do so since the start of the pandemic. The cities have said that they did $2,585 million in hazard pay in Pierce County. Those who work at the grocery If the county voted yes on the ordi- not want the county to tell them what On May 4, there was a vote in the stores have been on the front lines nance it was not going to put the coun- to do when it comes to this situation profit up to Sept. in Pierce County council for all grocery throughout this pandemic, putting ty into big business issues, it would and they got their wish, yet the cities 2020. store workers to receive hazard pay. themselves and their families at risk have instead shown these big corpora- are just sitting on their hands not doing With a vote of four yays and three nays since the beginning. Now that we are tions that a whole county is in support anything about the issue still.

COURTESY OF PIXABAY Grovcery store workers are in need of a pay increase since they are on the front lines of a public health crisis and are at a great risk of contracting COVID-19. A & E THE LEDGER MAY 24, 2021 7 5 Japanese horror mangas to read As anime and manga grows in popularity in the West, so does its horror genre.

By Lore Zent her effectively immortal unless every A&E Columnist part of her is burned. More than this, she can also biologi- Japanese horror manga is seemingly cally take over someone’s body if her thriving in American culture, being at- organs are transplanted into them, even tracted to its unconventional approach- if removed from the host later. “Tomie” es to psychological and supernatural is one of Junji Ito’s most recurring char- elements. Junji Ito is one of the most acters, appearing in three series: “Tomie,” well-known Japanese horror mangakas “Tomie: Part Two” and “Tomie: Again.” in America, with merchandise associ- “UZUMAKI” ated with the artists offered at various BY JUNJI ITO retail locations such as Hot Topic. How- In the fictional city of Kurouzu-Cho ever, there are still plenty of artists left there is a supernatural curse that centers untouched by this growing trend. This around spirals, and this story follows article recommends some of Ito’s works the citizens of Kurouzu-Cho as they COLLAGE BY LORE ZENT along with other artists for fans to broad- become either paranoid or obsessed Comic panels appear in order they are listed in the article, from top left to bottom right. en their knowledge of the genre. with them. Spirals are everywhere in “TOMIE” nature, but with the town’s fixation, it ated by a top surgeon, Dr. Naomitsu unfulfilled dreams, Hideo Suzuki is a lishing multiple horror works from the BY JUNJI ITO manifests them more so. Like a plague, Madaraki, to be his assistant. In his stead young manga artist assistant who suffers 1960s to 1970s. In one of his prominent Junji Ito is probably one of the most it begins to distort people’s minds psy- while he is away, she takes over his work. from low self-esteem. One day the world works, “The Drifting Classroom,” a notable mangakas in the world of horror chologically while simultaneously All of the stories within the series center around him begins to change as a disease group of students are trapped on a mov- manga, “Tomie” is one of his most physically contorting their bodies, even- around monsters and mutated people known as ZQN begins to turn people ing train that transported them through popular works. The titular character is tually causing a series of natural disas- created via scientific experimentation. into homicidal maniacs with zombie- time to a post-post-apocalyptic future a hedonistic, beautiful girl who pos- ters. Beautifully, Ito starts the story off There is a bit of dark humor as Franken like behaviors. Armed with only a shot- struck by environmental disasters. The sesses succubus-like characteristics. Not small and builds it bigger and bigger. Fran turns her patients into gruesome gun, Suzuki must find a way to survive students must challenge their claustro- only does she have the power to have “FRANKEN FRAN” mutations or brings misfortune upon while he and his companions question phobia, food and water shortages along people driven to insanity and commit BY KATSUHISA KIGITSU them, as Fran has a genuine but warped their moral choices along the way. with the slow creeping insanity. They brutal acts of violence in a jealous rage, The story follows the titular charac- sense of life-preservation. “THE DRIFTING CLASSROOM” will also be faced with nightmarish she also has the ability to regenerate a ter on her misadventures, finding a “I AM A HERO” BY KAZUO UMEZU monsters and megafauna creatures. clone of herself from even the smallest perfect balance between dread, horror BY KENGO HANAZAWA Kazuo Umezu is another name parts of her body such as hair, making and comedy. Franken Fran is a girl cre- At age 35 being overworked with maker of the horror manga genre, pub- More than meets the eye in “Invincible” The cult comic series gets an animated adaptation that aims to make a bold statement on animated superhero shows.

By Henry Nguyen the main character comes to find himself Film Critic while having to deal with and take on huge responsibilities at such a young age. It’s been a while since someone has The characters tend to find themselves made an exciting superhero cartoon that in positions that they would otherwise was equally worthwhile. It seems as not want to be in, and these themes run though the cartoon style that existed in throughout the entire season. so many animated television shows such It’s important to know that this show as “Justice League,” “Legend of Korra” and its comic books parody classic su- and many more, have fallen a bit out of perhero narratives, like those in the DC trend — especially when most of them universe. This is evident through the are meant for a younger audience. blatancy of the characters in comparison Amazon’s new adaption of the — in both look and powers — such as comic book series “Invincible” is a fresh Omni-Man resesembeling Superman take on the genre that definitely packs but is dissimalarily deeply disturbed and COURTESY OF AMAZON Mark Grayson is a not-so-average teenager caught in a mix having to juggle his nor- more of a punch than it looks. Ini- complex, more so than the show would mal life with his super hero one. REVIEW tially, I had thought that this show was lead you to first believe. "Invincible" going to be somewhat similar to “Young This show takes common comic and show parodying classic superhero car- binge the rest of the season. Justice” mixed with sexual innuendos film tropes to then subvert them by show- toons, I would argue that it can’t excuse Watching the rest of the season defi- ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ and the casual curse word here and ing the real hardships that heroes have how bland and forgettable the settings nitely paid off, the story never ceases to there, but what we got was a humorous, to go through when they can’t save ev- are. The show’s lack of distinctive style surprise and subvert the expectations and most importantly, mature story eryone from harm. It creates a very com- almost turned me off the show to start. that you would have in a show such as The Good: • Very well told story that told through lots and lots of violence pelling story. It seemed like most of the budget this one. The stakes are incredibly high does the original comic and difficult concepts. However, the art style itself comes off went into the fights, which definitely don’t and characters will die unexpectedly. books justice The show stars Mark Grayson, as bland as it’s a little too reminiscent of hold back. It’s interesting to see cartoon Even the important ones. • Does not hold back on played by Steven Yeun, who’s just like the shows that it parodies and doesn’t art mixed with intense gore. In the first Upon first glance, “Invincible” is a violence any other 17 year old except his father make an effort to really do anything to episode, they waited until an important bleak look at a superhero universe, but • Subverts all expectations is Omni-Man, also known as Noland be unique, other than the huge amounts after-credit scene to throw the viewer what emerges is a very well told story Grayson — voiced by J.K. Simmons. As of blood and gore that can be found in into what was going to be one of the most through the eyes of a teenager who pos- Mark comes to grasp the powers of his certain scenes. Otherwise, the animation gruesome scenes portrayed in a super- sesses otherworldly powers. If you can The Bad: • Bland artstyle own, he begins to learn that his father’s itself seems a bit empty and the settings, hero cartoon, which I thought was a very handle scenes that deal with lots of blood • Uninspiring and repetitive heroic upbringing might not be as he- like the city skylines and the occasional surprising and refreshing introduction and gore, then “Invincible” is worth a settings roic as it seems. field here and there, become repetitive. to the series. The mystery and pure shock watch. Personally, I’m waiting for the next It’s a sort of coming of age story where While this could be interpreted as the of that scene alone made me want to two seasons to come out. 8 MAY 24, 2021 THE LEDGER A & E Pac-12 announces their new commissioner After a long search process, the Pac-12 has finally decided who will be the conference’s new commissioner. Did they make the right choice?

COURTESY OF ASU ATHLETICS New Pac-12 commissioner Getorge Kliavkoff (middle) stands with Arizona State athletic director Ray Anderson (right).

By Brooks Moeller On May 13, it was announced that rights deal expiring in the next few right after an NCAA basketball tour- but also in building fan bases. Sports Columnist George Kliavkoff will be the next Pac- years, this hire may work out to set nament where the Pac-12 had great The next move I hope Kliavkoff 12 Commissioner. You might be won- the conference up for future success. success sending three teams to the makes is to move the conference head- Following the departure of former dering who George Kliavkoff is. Trust The look of intercollegiate athletics elite eight and UCLA all the way to quarters out of San Francisco. This was Pac-12 Commissioner Larry Scott, me, all of us were wondering the same may be changing drastically soon. As the final four. And while this was the just one of the horrendous moves made who had been the head of the confer- thing considering his name was nev- players are beginning to speak up momentum the conference needed, by Larry Scott. Due to Kliavkoff’s ties ence since 2009, the hiring of his re- er brought up in the rumor mill. more and want more power including there is still lots of work to be done, with the city, I expect that the head- placement was the most important Kliavkoff has been the president the right to use their likeness for spon- especially with football. quarters will be moved to Las Vegas decision the Pac-12 will ever have to of entertainment and sports for MGM sors and other financial gains, Klia- First, Kliavkoff should be pushing once their current lease is over. Making make. The conference has been ir- Resorts International since 2018 and vkoff is up for the challenge. heavily for a college football playoff ex- Las Vegas the home of the conference relevant in competition and finan- was previously a member of the WN- "I am thrilled to be the Pac-12 Com- pansion. The current format has only could be huge, as it would open many cially at the bottom compared to the BA's Board of Governors, BetMGM missioner. This is a challenging time four teams — the smallest of any divi- opportunities to partner with casinos other conferences in the nation. New and Cirque du Soleil Entertainment for intercollegiate athletics, but I believe sion one sport. There is no reason why as sports gambling becomes more leadership was needed with a new Group. His previous work experience these challenges also create significant the Pac-12 champion should not get a popular and legal in many states. perspective on approaches to improve also includes serving as executive vice opportunities," Kliavkoff said in a state- shot at the title. The new commissioner Although I questioned the move the state of its 12 member schools. president of business with MLB Ad- ment. "I loved being a student-athlete, already made note about the topic in his at first, after doing more research on vanced Media from 2003-06, the chief and I'm passionate about the doors that introductory press conference. Kliavkoff and hearing from him dur- digital officer at NBCUniversal from college sports and higher education "I want to go on the record: The Pac- ing the introductory press conference, On May 13, it was 2006-08 and a board member and open for young women and men. My 12 is in favor of expansion of the College I can see this being a good move for announced that interim CEO at Hulu from 2007-08. job at the Pac-12 will be to help manage Football Playoff,” Kliavkoff said. the conference. My one remaining George Kliavkoff will The concerning factor here is that the balance between continued aca- Considering they have lacked a concern is his lack of experience in Kliakoff has no experience with col- demic excellence, student-athlete well- massive amount of media exposure, college athletics, but he seems well be the next Pac-12 lege athletics, which was the case with being and an even higher level of ath- being a part of the college football rounded enough that this hopefully Commissioner. Larry Scott, and we all saw how that letic achievement." playoff would leave a huge impact on will not be an issue. went. But with the current media The official announcement came not only bringing in big-name recruits