Inside: 2021-22 Basketball Preview Oct. 26,2021 - Vol. 34, Issue 10 - Townnews
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Inside: 2021-22 Basketball Preview Vol. 34, Issue 10 Oct. 26, 2021 NINERTIMES.COM
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
April Carte
editor@ninertimes.com
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EDITORIAL
Vasiliki Gkoulgkountina MANAGING
EDITOR
NEWS
Tyler Trudeau COMMUNITY EDITOR
Madison Dobrzenski NEWS EDITOR
PAGE 3 Homecoming at UNC Charlotte is quickly
Hiral Patel OPINION EDITOR
approaching
Emily Kottak A&C EDITOR
Bradley Cole SPORTS EDITOR
PAGE 4 The Native American Student Association
Max Young COPY EDITOR
Niyathi Sulkunte PHOTO EDITOR
María Solano VIDEO EDITOR
Brandon Mitchell LAYOUT EDITOR OPINION
ASSISTANT EDITORS
Jessica Ceballos NEWS
PAGE 5 Pressure of the pandemic
Isaac Naylor OPINION
Jake Pierce A&C
Bryson Foster SPORTS
Isabella Perryman COPY
Elizabeth McGuire VIDEO
SPORTS
Sunnya Hadavi LAYOUT
Zoya Zalevskiy LAYOUT PAGE 6 A new chapter
CONTRIBUTING STAFF PAGE 8 Brotherly love
NINER TIMES Lorenza Medley, Matt Porto, Cameron
Williams, Gabie Stanfield, Lesly Santos
@niner_times
COVER DESIGN
Brandon Mitchell ARTS & CULTURE
COVER PHOTO
Chris Crews
UPTOWN
AUDIO MARKETING DIRECTOR PAGE 10 TV review: ‘Star Wars Visions’ season 1
@uptownaudio Megan Reid
mktdirector@uncc.edu
ASST. CREATIVE DIRECTOR PAGE 11 Explaining Día De Los Muertos
Megan Rice
MARKETING STAFF
Olivia Lawless, Nina Cherry
SANSKRIT
LIT ARTS
MAGAZINE NEWSROOM 704.687.7150
@sanskrituncc NINERTIMES.COM/STAFF
TWITTER @NINER_TIMES
READ + WATCH MORE ONLINE AT
LOCATED ON THE LOWER LEVEL OF THE STUDENT UNION
Niner Times • Uptown Audio
NINER MEDIA Sanskrit Literary-Arts Magazine
Media Marketing • Technical • Midas
NinerTimes.com
@UNCCMEDIA Magazine
THE UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA AT CHARLOTTE
Kelly Merges NINER MEDIA ADVISER
Laurie Cuddy BUSINESS MANAGER
Joshua Wood GRAPHICS &
2 OCT. 26, 2021 NINERTIMES PRODUCTION
Photo by Niyathi Sulkunte
NT NEWS
HOMECOMING AT
The 2021 Homecoming will be from Oct. 31 to Nov. 6 across campus and will
feature games, special guests and the chance to win merch.
Homecoming will also be on the week of Family Weekend and Niner
Nation Week. Dejah Wallace, the marketing coordinator for the Homecoming
UNC CHARLOTTE Committee, spoke with the Niner Times about the events taking place. This
Homecoming, the “Niner 9” is the most recent change made to the event.
Recently, more schools have been making a switch to more inclusive
IS QUICKLY
Homecoming courts. As a result, the Niner 9 will replace the original
“Homecoming Court,” and the “Golden Niner” will replace both the
“Homecoming King and Queen.”
“They wanted to get away from the king and queen because they wanted
APPROACHING everyone to be included and exemplify the values of Niner Nation,” Wallace
said.
“Meet the Niner 9” will take place from Oct. 27-Nov. 4. Students can meet
2021 Homecoming week will be from Oct. 31 to Nov. 6 the Niner 9, learn more about them, and ask them questions. A summary of
the Niner 9 can be found at homecoming.charlotte.edu.
by Lorenza Medley Photos of “Niner 9” courtesy of Homecoming
Staff Writer of UNC Charlotte This year’s Niner 9 will comprise two men and seven women.
Ana Risch (2022) is majoring Danyal Mahmud (2022) is majoring Lily Burns (2022) is majoring
in Exercise Science and Dance. in Psychology. He is involved on campus in Finance and Management.
She is President of the Women’s as the president of the Diversified Greek She is chapter president of the
Rugby Club and is a member Council, a member of the Lambda Alpha Chi Omega sorority,
of Leadership Fellows STARS Upsilon Lambda Fraternity, a LEAD Team a group fitness instructor
and Minority Association of coordinator, a student coordinator for at UREC and a Student
Pre-Medical Students. New Student & Family Services, and a Involvement ambassador.
peer advisor for University College.
Ben Shackelford (2022) is Campbell Medders (2023) is majoring Gabi Hitchcock (2022) is
majoring in Operations and in Marketing. She is involved on campus majoring in Political Science
Supply Chain Management. He as a resident advisor, marketing director and Sociology. She is the
is a Niner Guide, a member of of the Chi Omega sorority, Greek Village president of the Panhellenic
the University Honors Program Office Assistant, Emerging Leaders Association, Student Body
and part of Leadership Fellows mentor, on the Campus Outreach Vice President in the SGA and
STARS. Leadership Team and a Panhellenic a member of the Alpha Chi
Recruitment Counselor. Omega sorority.
Mackenzie Jane Amberg Ryen Boleware (2022) is majoring in Chloe Nicola (2022) is
(2023) is majoring in Spanish Psychology and Criminal Justice. She is majoring in Spanish, Political
and Biology. She is president of involved in the LEAD Team, co-captain Science and International
the Junior Class Council. of the Charlotte Cheerleading COED, Studies. She is involved in
vice president of the Delta Sigma Theta Model UN and a Millennium
Sorority and Chief Justice of the Judicial Fellowship, as well as a UCAE
Branch in SGA. Tutor.
Students can vote for this year’s Golden Niner at vote. The first event of Homecoming is a Kickoff Student to 9 p.m. in the CHHS plaza. There will be music,
charlotte.edu. Voting starts Oct. 28 at 8 a.m. and closes Pep Rally on Oct. 31 in the Star-Quad from 10:30 p.m. performances, food trucks and vendors. The annual
Nov. 4 at 5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. The pep rally will feature special guest Stroll Contest will also be held on Nov. 5 from 7 p.m. to
The Golden Niner will be announced at the appearances, free food and music. 9 p.m. by the National Pan-Hellenic Council fraternities
Homecoming game on Saturday, Nov. 6, and will receive There will be a field day from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the and sororities on campus.
the Golden Niner Pickaxe and a $500 reward. They will West Quad on Nov. 1. Students must pre-register to join Nov. 6 will be the last and busiest day of Homecoming.
have the chance to be featured in promotional campaigns the event. There will be a tailgate with a Spirit Tent at 1:30 p.m. for
for the university, design a Golden Niner jacket, A flag football tournament will be held on Nov. 3 and a students to get dressed head to toe in niner pride. The
participate in noteworthy departments across campus, trivia night will be held in the Student Union at 6 p.m. on football game will be held at 3:30 p.m. between Charlotte
such as athletics. They will pass on the Golden Niner Nov. 4. On Nov. 4, CAB will be hosting Aux Cord Wars and Rice University.
Pickaxe at the next Homecoming. at 7 p.m. All students are encouraged to wear green on For more information about all of the Homecoming
The rest of Homecoming will stay traditional in Nov. 4. events, visit homecoming.charlotte.uncc.edu.
sticking to the layout of previous Homecomings. A Friday Fest will be held on Nov. 5 from 6 p.m.
NINERTIMES.COM OCT. 26, 2021 3
THE NATIVE AMERICAN
STUDENT ASSOCIATION
The Native American Student Association president talks Indigenous
People’s Day, organization’s past and present
by Vasiliki Gkoulgkountina
Managing Editor
The Native American Student where more than 90% of the population judged. Freeman states, “In the circle,
Association (NASA) is geared towards is Native American, the home of the everyone is equal, everyone belongs, and
spreading Indigenous culture at UNC Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. everyone’s points and opinions are valid.
Charlotte. “Going from a place where I was one of The intention of it is to come in with open
On Monday, Oct. 11, millions of about 5,000 Native Americans to one of hearts and understand and connect with
people came together to celebrate 30,000 students, it was a culture shock,” one another.”
Indigenous People’s Day and shed light Freeman said. Her transition to UNC The consecutive talking circles will each
on the culture and history of Indigenous Charlotte “ignited a fire in her” to share focus on a different topic. The first night
people. UNC Charlotte third-year and Indigenous culture with her peers and her is going to be about being indigenous
President of NASA, Page Freeman, is community. at UNC Charlotte and the impact that
dedicated to spreading Indigenous culture NASA aims to spread Indigenous has on Native students being away from
and appreciation throughout the UNC culture across UNC Charlotte. “From home. “The second night is going to
Charlotte campus. powwows to beadwork to books to be about the murdered and missing
The University held a small service for podcasts, to traditional foods that we eat, Indigenous women and girls epidemic
land acknowledgment for Indigenous to gathering things, and just everything. I that has taken over the nation and
People’s Day. Freeman states that “the want to inform, because I feel like across Canada,” Freeman said. The third night is
purpose of this holiday is to shift focus the board, there’s a lack of information about Native American mascots and their
away from Columbus and pull the focus when it comes to Native Americans and impact on Native youth and their mental
back on celebrating and appreciating people often view us in a past tense,” health.
Native American history and culture.” Freeman said. The fourth night is about mental health
NASA was founded in 2014, but the According to Freeman, a powwow is in Indigenous communities and creating
organizations’ activeness has been rocky a large gathering of Native American a safer space for Native people to express
since then. The organization was inactive people where there is dancing, vendors, their emotions.
in 2018, then active in 2019. Freeman food, a master of ceremonies. It aims to According to Freeman, most people
expressed her goal to make NASA a celebrate the essence of being Native. identify with the tribe that they have a
permanent feature at UNC Charlotte During these gatherings, people will dress registered card with, but Freeman herself
when choosing her executive board in traditional Native regalia. One example identifies with three Indigenous tribes:
members. “My executive board right now is the jingle dress, a cloth dress with 365 Coharie, Waccamaw Siouan and Lumbee.
consists of our vice president, who is a jingles on it to represent each day and is “I see myself as a mixture of these three
fourth-year, and the rest of the executive worn to celebrate new beginnings. The tribes, and I feel like they represent
order are first-years,” said Freeman. Lumbee tribe holds two powwows a year, a different part of me individually,”
With the resurgence of NASA, Native while the Gathering of Nations is one of Freeman said.
American students have been able to the biggest powwows in the United States. NASA’s motto is “We are Strong. We
reconnect with each other and create a For Native American Heritage Month are Resilient. We are Still Here. We
safe space for their cause. in November, NASA plans to hold one are Indigenous.” which lends itself to
The organization focuses on spreading consistent event throughout the entire representing Indigenous culture and
Indigenous culture and creating month. “We’re going to have a weekly history. “I feel like as Native Americans,
awareness about Indigenous people on talking circle every Monday night in it’s something that we’ve developed
campus. “We want to provide a safe space November. A talking circle is essentially over time because we’ve faced so many
for Native students to come together and a less formal version of sharing circles challenges for just being who we are. And
just be students because sometimes these which elders often use during meetings yet we pick up and carry on regardless of
they can be seen as the token native, so I which are considered sacred by Native what people throw at us to hurt or hinder
want this to be a space where Indigenous American communities,” Freeman said. us, we continue,” Freeman said.
students can be themselves,” Freeman These talking circles aim to provide a safe For more information about this
said. space for students to share their thoughts organization and its events, visit their
Freeman grew up in Pembroke, and emotions without the fear of being Instagram @unccnasa.
4 OCT. 26, 2021 NINERTIMES
NT OPINION NT OPINION
PRESSURE OF THE
PANDEMIC
How the pandemic is impacting new grads in the modern job market
by Matt Porto Graphic of “City Job Market”
Intern by Zoya Zalevskiy
For any U.S. graduate, they will be development. The offset of telework of the economy and the availability of decades to pay off. This hindrance to
sure to tell you that the scariest time of has made a positive impact on the work opportunities for recent college the fluidity of the labor market makes
the college experience is graduation. The labor market. A lot of businesses were grads. Recent Charlotte graduate Avani for stalling in the economy and the
boding feeling of facing the reality that able to continue their productivity Nippani said, “I’m feeling grateful right personal lives of recent grads around the
(barring those that go on to graduate through hybrid methods of work. Visual now to have had an opportunity to get country feeling trapped by their debt and
school) the period of their life dedicated Capitalist, a publication focusing on a full-time position with the company unable to move forward with their lives.
to institutional education is over, and the the global economy, says that Covid-19 I’m with right now because I know They can’t start building a foundation
time to enter the workforce has arrived. has positively impacted collaborative friends that are really struggling to of individuality by moving out, starting
This will thrust you into “real life” with efforts and communicative abilities, find worthwhile employment, mostly their own businesses, purchasing a
limited working experience, big dreams with corporations, universities and because of the fluidity of this Covid vehicle, starting a family and so much
and a chip on your shoulder to be government entities utilizing applications situation and how things lockdown more. There are an estimated 43.2 million
successful. What 2020 and 20201 college like Zoom and WebEx. and open up and lockdown again.” A student borrowers in the U.S., with
graduates face is that same pressure, Social media also helped the labor lot of people are losing their jobs. The an average loan debt of $39, 351 each,
but doubly applied in light of the effects market. The need for social media has competition and demand for corporate equaling a whopping $1.59 trillion worth
of the Covid-19 pandemic on the U.S. never been clearer before. During the work are immensely high for those in the of total national student loan debt.
economy. pandemic, when shops were closed, had workforce their whole lives, so you could There is no glass half full but near
According to CNBC, graduates limited occupancy or went online, social imagine how hard it is to navigate those empty. The fact that in such a transitional
from universities in the class of 2020 media helped with sale promotions. graduating college and who don’t have time in a person’s life, finding your
saw “a bigger decrease in labor force Businesses heavily relied on sponsored enough work experience. footing in a career is impeded by
participation than those who graduated social media posts on different platforms According to Statista, the national something out of anyone’s control is
during the Great Recession.” Thus, the to advertise new products, discounted unemployment rate of recent graduates frustrating. This leaves the U.S. with
pandemic has taken the U.S. economy sales, membership programs and even in the U.S. peaked at 13.6% in July 2021. a job market as limited as ever and an
in a momentarily poor direction employment opportunities. Job positions This is quite a concerning number, entire graduating class of students having
and harmed staple institutions like regarding marketing, social media and considering that this statistic was as a harder time than ever finding a job.
universities and small and large influencing expanded and is engrained in low as 3.6% in January 2020. On top Covid’s impact on the economy leads to
businesses. an everyday business agenda. of a skyrocketed unemployment rate, the rapid increase of our unemployment
Some have actually taken a ‘glass However, I find it difficult to look past there is also the mountainous amount of rate and uncertainty for the future.
half full mentality in the wake of the the devastating effects that the Covid-19 student loan debt that has been nationally
depressive last few years of economic pandemic has had on the progression accumulated, with these typically taking
NINERTIMES.COM OCT. 26, 2021 5
NT SPORTS
NT SPORTS
WHAT THE MOVE TO THE AAC MEANS FOR CHARLOTTE
by Bradley Cole and Cameron Williams Photo of Florida Atlantic vs. Charlotte game by Chris Crews
Staff Writers Logos courtesy of UNC Charlotte and AAC
The moment Texas and Oklahoma have a chance to elevate that and will add wasn’t until 2013 when the 49ers added geographical sense, clearly. By virtue of
announced their move to the SEC in to this conferences’ legacy of success.” a football program after not fielding their location in major cities that add
July, the college sports landscape forever a team since 1948. In two short years, to our intensive media footprint.”
changed. And just a couple of months later, How did we get here? Charlotte made the jump from the FCS Aresco added how the conference
the Charlotte 49ers program benefited The journey to the AAC has been a long level to FBS, where they joined the rest has seen past success in bigger cities
from that move. Once Cincinnati, Central time coming for Charlotte, as they spent of the 49er teams in Conference USA. such as Memphis, Philadelphia,
Florida and Houston headed to the Big considerable time in different conferences. Dallas and Houston.
12, the door to head to the American The 49ers were charting members of Why does the move make sense? UTSA, Rice, North Texas, FAU, UAB and
Conference was wide open for the 49ers. the Sun Belt in 1976 and didn’t leave the This makes sense from many angles. First, the 49ers all fit under that profile and are
Yahoo Sports reported that the 49ers conference until 1991. Then, they moved to you can look at the revenue perspective as willing to invest in their athletic programs,
were one of six schools to join the the Metro Conference in 1991, where the each school will make two million dollars especially the football department. For
American Athletic Conference (AAC). On 49ers were once again charting members. a year from the conference. This revenue Charlotte, since athletic director Mike
Oct. 21, it was confirmed that Charlotte However, the membership-only lasted will be gained from television deals. Hill came onto the scene in 2018, the
would be joining the AAC and that the four years with the Metro Conference. The AAC targeted schools that are football program has skyrocketed.
speculations are coming to fruition. After leaving the Metro in 1995, Charlotte in metropolitan areas, which the 49ers With the addition of head coach Will
“I am confident that both collectively joined Conference USA for their first stint, fall right under. However, in his press Healy in 2019, the 49ers made their
and individually these teams will have where the 49ers basketball program made conference, Aresco stressed many times first-ever bowl game and set a record
success in the American Conference,” a name for themselves. They were able to that the conference wanted schools in for wins (seven) in a single season. In
commissioner of the American conference, regularly play schools such as Memphis, bigger areas with high potential. addition, the program was rebranded
Mike Aresco said in a press conference Louisville, Cincinnati and Marquette. “These schools make great sense for in the summer of last year, which
last Thursday. “They have had success One thing was missing for a long us in many different perspectives,” said gave the 49ers a fresh new logo.
where they have been and I think they time for the 49ers: a football program. It AAC commissioner Mike Aresco. “[A]
6 OCT. 26, 2021 NINERTIMES
Football isn’t the only sport that has old rivalries and the development of new
helped launch the school into the spotlight. rivalries,” said Aresco. “We’ve done very
The baseball and men’s soccer teams both well with the development of new rivalries.”
made the NCAA tournaments last season. This means Charlotte will play East
In addition, the women’s basketball team Carolina University every year in sporting
made the NIT in 2021 and is projected events. This in-state rivalry promises to
to win C-USA for the 2021-22 season. deliver, especially in sports like football
and baseball. The 49ers and Pirates met
Moving Forward in the NCAA tournament in baseball
Now that the move is official, the last season and will challenge each other
anticipation begins for fans and even in the regular season in the future.
the media, as this will likely be a “We are thrilled to be in a league with
beneficial change from multiple aspects. East Carolina,” 49er Athletic Director
With the teams not likely starting Mike Hill said. “To have an in-state rival
competition in the conference until matters a lot. For us to be positioned in
2023-24 according to reports, there are a conference with a great program like
still questions surrounding Charlotte ECU matters a lot to our fanbase.”
regarding facility upgrades. Additionally, There is a lot to look forward to for the
a lot of speculation around a football program as a whole, and the support of
stadium seat number expansion has the alumni, fans and student body along
been stirring lately. This change will the way will be key for the success of the
be sure to start new rivalries as well. program moving forward as Charlotte
“We look forward to the renewal of makes its way to the new conference.
Photo of crowd by Chris Crews
Photo of Coach Healy by Chris Crews
NINERTIMES.COM OCT. 26, 2021 7
BROTHERLY
LOVE
REYNOLDS BROTHERS GET A UNIQUE CHANCE TO SHARE COLLEGE FOOTBALL EXPERIENCE
by Gabie Stanfeild
Staff Writer
Brothers Chris and Jack Reynolds both followed in his footsteps by joining the of being on the same team has been doing this thing with you since you were in
attended Davie County High School, but team as a walk-on this past summer. entirely sufficient for the two brothers. diapers, that’s special and not many people
with the five-year age gap, they never got Chris, a red-shirt senior at Charlotte, “We’re family-based. Family is going get that opportunity,” said Chris Reynolds.
the chance to be a part of the same team. made his way to become the star to come first, no matter what. That’s Jack Reynolds kept an eye out on his
As a walk-on freshman, Chris Reynolds starting quarterback. He led the Davie how we were raised, and we were older brother’s progression at Charlotte
started his football career at Charlotte County War Eagles during his time to a raised to work hard,” said Chris. “No while putting in work back with his
back in 2017. His brother Jack Reynolds record of 12-2 and a Central Piedmont matter what we do, we support others, high school team. Finally, at the end of
Conference Championship. Jack help those who can’t help themselves
Reynolds was a four-year varsity starter and always fall back on family.”
and two-time all-state performer.
For the two of them, playing together has “Some days it is tough, you’re
been something that the brothers awaited. doing the same thing five
“I’ve been looking forward to it forever,” days a week, but I never see
said Chris Reynolds. “I’ve been thinking Chris [Reynolds] walking in
about it since I was a freshman. I knew
one of my goals was that I wanted to a slouch. He’s always got his
play with my brother because we were coffee in hand, walking in with
never able to do that in high school.” shoulders high and a smile
Jack’s opportunity to learn alongside on his face asking people how
his big brother and practice with him has they’re doing. His attitude and
helped him push himself that extra step. In
addition, he has been able to watch Chris how he comes in every day is
and study his leadership role on the team, something you don’t see a lot.”
which is one of the reasons that playing - Jack Reynolds
with him in practice has been so special.
“When you can get those reps in with With family being so important to
each other, it’s definitely cool,” said Jack. the two, the act of playing the game
“I’m probably going to go 1% harder to together isn’t always the most important
try to get open and kiss that ball. But I part when it comes to being on the
think it’s more about off the field, just same team. Something more important
seeing him every day and seeing what to them is that they are able to rely on
he does as a leader. He’s always that one another when times get tough.
guy who goes that extra percent.” “When it comes to being on the same
Jack Reynold, with a stacked roster and team, when you do have a rough day and
the age gap between the two, the brothers things aren’t going the way you expected,
haven’t been seen on the field together being able to go into the locker room and
Photo of Jack Reynolds courtesy of
Photo of Chris Reynolds by Chris Crews see your family, someone who has been
for games. Regardless, the experience Davie County Athletics
8 OCT. 26, 2021 NINERTIMES
his freshman year, he started thinking with shoulders high and a smile on his
about the possibility of playing in college face asking people how they’re doing.
with his brother. Some might see it as His attitude and how he comes in every
a coincidence that the two ended up day is something you don’t see a lot.”
playing for the same team, but Jack Growing up, the two didn’t always see
Reynolds knows that isn’t quite the case. eye to eye, just like any other siblings.
“Ultimately, if I got the chance to come But as they grew, they became closer and
here, I was gonna come here,” said Jack. stuck side by side. Through their bond,
“There was nowhere else I’d really rather they were able to learn a lot from each
go. There’s not many people around the other as they grew up. Jack spoke on the
country where you get to hear, ‘I get to advice that his older brother has given him
play college football, or I more or less, regarding being a walk-on freshman.
get to catch passes from my brother.” “Coming here, I had to understand.
It may not be my time right now,” said
“But, the whole family picture Jack. “That does kind of bring you down
10 years from now, I bet you’ll some, but at the end of the day you have
find us on a Friday evening, to keep pushing through. Your time will
smoking a cigar on the back come…you just have to keep your path.”
Chris has learned just as much from
porch, with a couple of beers in his little brother as he has taught him.
hand, listening to good music. “I tend to be an overthinker, and
We’ll be outside; me, Jack, Danny, sometimes I’ll sit down with Jack
Abigail, Amanda, and our parents [Reynolds], and he can tell that I’m
will be coming over, the kids overthinking, and he’ll tell me, ‘Dude, stop
thinking so much. Don’t care about what
will be running around—we’re anybody thinks, you know who you are,
all gonna be sticking together.” just play football,’” said Chris. “Having a
- Chris Reynolds family member there means something
else because he knows me better than
When it comes to being a leader of the anybody in the building. I may have some
team, Chris is that guy. He encompasses good friends, but he knows me better. He
the capability to understand his teammates knows how I tick. The best advice [he’s
and help them through their difficulties, given me] would be, ‘Just go do it, man.’”
being a veteran on the team and having Chris and Jack Reynolds can’t predict the
that sort of credibility. But, with his future, but they have a pretty good outlook
younger brother on the team, the strategy on what their lives will be as a family 10
toward that leadership alters a bit. years down the road - the ultimate dream.
“Having your real actual brother “One thing is you’re probably gonna
here means a little something extra,” find us playing church league softball,”
said Chris. “There’s definitely more to said Chris. “But, the whole family picture
it. There’s a difference between being a 10 years from now, I bet you’ll find us
leader in football, being a leader in the on a Friday evening, smoking a cigar on
family and helping your younger brother. the back porch, with a couple of beers
There are similarities, but because we in hand, listening to good music. We’ll
know each other on a different level, be outside; me, Jack, Danny, Abigail,
it can be really real with him. You Amanda, and our parents will be coming
can’t do that with certain people.” over, the kids will be running around—
With Jack on the team watching his we’re all gonna be sticking together.”
brother’s leadership qualities, it isn’t “After our dinner at O’Callaghan’s,”
hard to imagine what he can become Jack added, or as he’s informally
when he gets to be his age. He’s already referred to, Jackiemoon.
looking ahead and watching how his The two brothers have an irreplaceable
brother leads the team and observing bond and know how to make the most of
what unique qualities about him he can their limited time on the team together.
utilize to help him down the road. They look forward to that first game
“He’s always upbeat,” said Jack. “Some where they will be playing together on
days it is tough, you’re doing the same the field and for that special moment
thing five days a week, but I never see where Jack Reynolds gets to catch a
Chris [Reynolds] walking in a slouch. He’s pass from his older brother Chris. Photo of Jack and Chris Reynolds
always got his coffee in hand, walking in by Gabie Stanfield
NINERTIMES.COM OCT. 26, 2021 9NT
NT ARTS
ARTS &
& CULTURE
CULTURE NT
NT ARTS
ARTS &
& CULTURE
CULTURE
TV REVIEW: by Tyler Trudeau
Community Editor
“STAR WARS
Official art of “Star Wars: Visions”
Photo courtesy of IGN
VISIONS” SEASON 1
Expanding into anime as nine short films explore the
space opera franchise in a diverse new perspective
The following contains minor spoilers for “The Duel”: The first film in the line- may be able to save Gee from the clutches would like to see again. With that, “The
the nine short films of “Star Wars: Visions.” up of “Visions” is perhaps the one that of the vile gangster. While “Tatooine Village Bride” presented a story that felt
Originally conceived by George Lucas would first come to mind when you think Rhapsody” might have the lightest tone out very much removed from the Star Wars
back in the 1970s, the Star Wars franchise of a Star Wars anime. Acting as a primer of all the “Visions” stories, its fast-paced galaxy, aside from a handful of nods to the
has grown into a multimedia tycoon of to the series for fans who might be wary storytelling and lovable characters make Jedi and the Clone Wars-era battle droids.
films, television shows, books, and comics. of the sci-fi franchise leaping into the it an enjoyable entry point for younger When Separatist forces take a village chief ’s
It has brought something to nearly every world of anime, Kamikaze Douga’s “The Star Wars fans approaching the series. granddaughter and her fiancé hostage,
corner of its vast fandom. Its latest project Duel” envisions an alternate history of the “The Twins”: With a story centered a mysterious duo of masked warriors
in “Star Wars: Visions” has done nothing galaxy far, far away as we have never seen around a pair of twins guided by the Force step in to rescue the couple, leading to
short of that, sparking new interest in before. Set in Feudal Japan, the established yearning to leave behind a legacy in the an intense stand-off between a former
a side of storytelling myself and many symbols for good and evil, the Jedi and galaxy, it’s easy to see parallels to other Star Jedi and a band of merciless bandits.
others probably aren’t very familiar the Sith, exist as sects within a world of Wars characters and their stories when While the short gave me similar vibes
with. An anthology series of short films lords and samurai. A wandering former watching Studio Trigger’s “The Twins.” to the likes of Studio Ghibli’s “Princess
produced by a collection of renowned Sith known only as “Ronin” roams the Once we are introduced to twins Karre and Mononoke” in its beautiful animation
Japanese animation studios, the series of galaxy seeking out red Kyber crystals Am, however, we realize they are drastically and overall aesthetic, “The Village Bride”
nine films envision the science fiction- and protecting villages trapped in the different from the likes of Luke and Leia unfortunately fell to the bottom of my list
fantasy world through the diverse palette clutches of evil. The film, breathtaking or even Rey and Kylo Ren. Born of the as far as producing memorable characters
of anime. With the freedom to explore in its black-and-white animation and Force’s dark side to enact the Empire’s will, and thought-provoking storytelling.
any corner of the galaxy at any point in efficient introductions to Ronin and the the brother and sister are clad in black “The Ninth Jedi”: Although the
the franchise’s century-spanning timeline, vicious Sith warrior he confronts, is the armor and hold immense power in the primary intention of these short films
the stories presented in these nine films perfect way to preface what the rest of the Force. While their power is matched with was to introduce fans of the franchise to a
blur the line between what we know of eight films will portray. Stories that look one another, their ideologies are not, as new side of storytelling regardless of their
the Star Wars universe and the potential and feel like something else but represent Karre seeks to end his sister’s reign. As a connection to the established lore of the
it can have to become something more the thematic principles that Star Wars kinetic and hyperactive space duel unfolds, Star Wars universe, the most compelling
profound and visually captivating. has always strived to push forward. the lore of established Star Wars elements stories came from the ones that showed
While “Visions,” as a whole, tells unique “Tatooine Rhapsody”: While “The like Star Destroyers and Kyber crystals is promise as to where the galaxy far, far away
stories set within the aesthetic of the Star Duel” was a clear reference to the quickly subverted. The tension between the was going next. “The Ninth Jedi” from
Wars universe, with elements like the Force, traditional Samurai films of Japan and two warring siblings, as well as the film’s Production I.G. did just that, offering up
lightsabers, Jedi and Sith populating much their immediate Western counterparts, the stunning visuals, easily made “The Twins” a vision of where we might find the Jedi
of their runtime, no story is like another. musical short from Studio Colorido situated one of my favorite stories of the bunch. generations after the fall of their order.
They each work to introduce characters itself closer to the aesthetics of Japanese “The Village Bride”: While nearly Acting as the most expansive of the nine
we have never seen before in spectacular animation today and closer to a more all of the “Visions” stories were visually stories, the tale finds a cryptic Jedi ruler
and dramatic new situations. Themes of familiar galaxy. With the members of a rock compelling in their own right, not all the named Margrave Juro rallying together
good and evil, destiny and fate, kindness band called Star Waver targeted by bounty stories landed for me as far as leaving some of the remaining Jedi of the galaxy
and ruthlessness exist at the heart of each hunter Boba Fett under the assignment of behind something genuinely memorable. I to receive their lightsabers. All while, the
story, but each has its own set of lessons crime lord Jabba the Hutt, the Jedi Padawan don’t say that to take away from the efforts daughter of a saber-smith escapes the
it brings to the forefront. While each film Jay must work to rescue his captured friend of Kinema Citrus and their story “The clutches of the Sith as she works to deliver
is wholly unique, I wanted to discuss each and bandmate Gee through the power of Village Bride,” it’s just that this one and a the Jedi weapons to the margrave at his
film briefly to give an overview of the song. Even with a lightsaber at his disposal, few later entries in the “Visions” line-up aerial temple. Even as a 20-minute short
series for anyone eager to check it out. Jay finds that his band’s music is where he didn’t have as much to offer when it came film, “The Ninth Jedi” had all the makings
draws his power and that through song he to introducing stories and characters I of a new saga of cinematic storytelling,
10 OCT. 26, 2021 NINERTIMESfrom a promising young hero in the to help them and joins their cause. At the
sabersmith’s daughter Kara to a new age center lies Lop, who Yasaburo adopted as
of Jedi and Sith conflicts that could easily his daughter, and now stands firmly against
set itself apart from the conflicts we have the oppressive hand of the Empire. As
seen up to this point. “The Ninth Jedi” also tensions mount between Yasaburo and his
managed to reinvent themes and concepts daughter, Lop must take a stand against
that have persisted throughout the her adopted sister to save the family she
franchise, from an individual’s connection has created. While this story might sit
to the Force to the last ounces of hope at a middle point in the “Visions” line-
that can spark a new age of heroism. up for me, the kinetic animation mixed
“T0-B1”: In a Star Wars-themed cross with the heart at the center of its familial
between Astro Boy and Pinocchio, the tale conflict made for an enjoyable entry.
from the studio Science SARU situates “Akakiri”: Somewhat of a spiritual
the hallmark theme of following one’s companion piece to the first “Visions”
destiny into a light-hearted narrative of short film “The Duel,” Science SARU’s
a droid who desires to become a Jedi. second short “Akakiri” follows the journey
A wholesome and fun addition to the of a wandering Jedi named Tsubaki
“Visions” line-up, with a bit more depth who reunites with his old love Misa, a
to it than the similarly-toned “Tatooine princess who has been overthrown by
Rhapsody,” “T0-B1” felt very much in her dark-side-wielding aunt Masago.
line with the narrative of the franchise’s While at first, I didn’t see any connection
first outing in 1977’s “A New Hope.” It between this story and “The Duel,” due
followed a young boy seeking adventure to the two films varying in animation
who stumbles into a whole new world of style and not featuring any of the same
lightsabers and shadowy villains clad in characters, they both function similarly
black. A constant sense of hope made me in introducing the audience to mysterious
want to keep rooting for the ambitious warriors set on a quest to thwart an evil
droid hero and his quest to become presence. Taking inspiration visually
something more than what he is told to be. and thematically from classic Japanese
“The Elder”: Another favorite short of samurai films and American westerns,
mine was found in Studio Trigger’s “The “Akakiri,” much like “The Duel,” presented
Elder,” telling of a Jedi Master and his a taste of what matters to its lone central
young apprentice who must embark to a warrior and what each is willing to do
mysterious village to confront an ancient to complete their respective journeys.
threat closely tied to the dark side of the Fairly ambitious and eclectic in its
Force. The relationship between master diverse collection of nine short films, “Star
and apprentice is not uncommon to Wars: Visions” ended up being an exciting
most Star Wars storytelling, which made and easily accessible dive into Japanese
“The Elder” feel all the more familiar animation, whether you are a fan of anime
and accessible to long-time fans like me. or completely new to it. Even while some
Keeping the narrative centered mostly stories might not have landed as well as
around the chemistry of teacher Tajin others for me, the ones that did work
and his naive yet courageous student managed to leave me wanting more like
Dan, as well as the lessons Dan learns as them to exist in the Star Wars universe.
his compassion and innocence is tested, Presenting characters and situations
the short balanced its evocative themes both familiar and new to audiences in
and its brilliant action, all while wearing one way or another, “Visions” works as
the tenets of Star Wars on its sleeve. a fantastic primer for those looking to
“Lop & Och?”: Much like “The Twins” broaden their love for animation and
explored familial ties and the conflict that their love for Star Wars. If you appreciate
comes with them, Geno Studio’s “Lop either of those things, I would highly
& Ochō” took its focus on not only the recommend checking out these films.
importance of heritage but also the creation
of a found family. Seen through the eyes Overall Rating: 7/10
of a rabbit-like being named Lop, the
short unfolds the conflict between a clan All nine short films of “Star Wars:
leader Yasaburo and his daughter Ochō Visions” are now available to stream on
as the Empire occupies their planet. As Disney+. In addition, all of the films feature
Yasaburo sits on the side of the rebellion, full Japanese and English casts for you to
Ochō sees the potential for the Empire enjoy dubbed or subbed respectively.
NINERTIMES.COM OCT. 26, 2021 11EXPLAINING
DÍA DE LOS MUERTOS
My experience with the tradition and the culture
by Lesly Santos Photos of Día De Los Muertos by dat7, Amber_Avalona,
Staff Writer allisonfaithsulock, & darvinsantos courtesy of Pixabay
Día De Los Muertos, Day of the Dead, Pan De Muerto, a sweet egg-based bread, favorite foods and drinks, it is believed religious figures. La Virgen de Guadalupe,
is rooted in Mexican culture. It has is a traditional bread that is consumed that the spirits can “consume the spiritual the Virgin of Guadalupe, is a prominent
remained an honored tradition in my during this time along with spicy dark hot essence” of the foods offered. Even though Catholic icon and is almost always included
family even though we are no longer in chocolate or atole, a corn-based drink. the physical food remains on the altar, it no on the altars. Alongside the Virgen de
Oaxaca, Mexico. Traditionally in Mexico, Although the celebrations vary from town longer has nutritional value or substance. Guadalupe, you will often see other
grand event plans such as parades are to town, they all hold the same concept Typically in my family, we will use the patron saints such as San Judas Tadeo and
organized to honor the deceased more of remembrance and honor for our candy the children collect on Halloween rosaries. Some candles have patron saints
cheerfully. It is meant to create days when ancestors. Families will often take the time to include it on the altar. Thread or wire printed on them, and they are lit the entire
you remember funny anecdotes with those to visit and decorate the tombs of their is sometimes used to puncture a hole time and accompanied with prayers.
you lost and lessen the pain. I learned loved ones to prepare for their arrival. through the candies to create a string of It is a common misconception that the
long ago that the veil between the living The altar can be made of different them to place on the shrine. We will often Day of the Dead is a celebration of death
and the dead is thin, and on November 1 materials to construct the arch, such use animal cookies because our loved or a “Mexican Halloween,” but that is not
and 2, it breaks long enough for our loved as styrofoam, chicken wire or wood. ones enjoyed them with their coffee, so the case. We celebrate the dead, the loved
ones to visit us. The night of October 31 is Cempasúchil, Aztec marigolds, are essential it’s something we like to include. Fruits, ones we lost, and still mourn. Death is
when our ancestors are traveling back to for the altar because the flower’’ scent candies or traditional Mexican foods will inevitable, and we have no say when it
the physical world, so the altar is placed and bright color are said to guide our be placed as an ofrenda. We take the time happens, but we do get a say in how we
by midnight so they can arrive home. ancestors back to our home. The flowers to bond with our ancestors by offering honor and remember our loved ones. It’s
The Day of the Dead dates back create a path to the ofrendas, offerings them food but also eating alongside them. a way to keep their memory alive and
about 3,000 years to pre-Columbian that are placed on the altar. The ofrendas The photographs of loved ones serve not let them fade with time. We feel the
Mesoamerica. A person, after passing away, vary based on the age of the deceased and as a reminder of who they were in life. emptiness that our loved ones left when
is believed to progress to Chicunamictlán, the individuals themselves. If children After all, el Dia De Los Muertos honors they departed from this world every day,
the Land of the Dead. The calacas are being remembered, it is typical to put the dead by remembering how they were but El Dia De Los Muertos is the only time
(skeletons) and calaveras (skulls) are a few toys for them to play with upon in life. Photographs are placed on the throughout the year that our ancestors are
prominent Dia De Los Muertos symbols. their arrival. We also include the person’s altar creating a shrine along with the allowed to cross between realms to visit us.
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