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July 3, 2017

How To Celebrate Your Country’s Independence While Keeping Yours

You’re sitting down with a bottle (if you’re lucky, an alcoholic bottle) in one hand and a cheeseburger in the other. You’re not worried about work, or the fact your daughter is pouring water bottles directly onto your son’s feet. All you care about is what you’re going to eat and drink next. A thought in your mind ponders, should you ask “where’s the Kan Jam?”

Well, you’re at your (insert family member) place, so no harm. Of course, I’m talking about your annual 4th of July cook out. However, there are many pitfalls you could fall into prior to that will preventing you from attending. Avoid thise amatuer pitfalls and you’ll be smooth sailing.

First and foremost, if you’re travelling for the holiday drive the speed limit. During holidays, everyone’s driving, and that means more risk for error. The left lane, or the fast lane, is slowed down, so the right lane, or slow lane is worse. So, plan accordingly. If you want to be at your desired location by 2pm, and it takes an hour to get there, at the latest I’d leave 12:30pm. Please, don’t rush to get where you’re going if you’re still running late.

A rule of thumb, no one will remember you were 30 minutes late to the cookout, but your car insurance will remember precisely the time and day of your accident, if you have one rushing to a cookout.

Moving on, alcohol is one of the most powerful things you can put into your body, so refuse the urge to drive home after 10 shots. Hopefully, you drove with someone who has a valid license and lives close enough to Uber home. But if you’re drunk early enough that you can pass out and wake up when it’s time to leave (the latter isn’t a bad option, if you must drink) then hey! Of course, have some drinks, because it’s the holiday. Have fun, but responsible fun.

Continuation from the last pitfall, leave the fireworks to the professionals. Okay, everyone feels invincible when they’re drunk, but that doesn’t mean they are. Obviously, I’m not talking about the fire poppers, but the fire crackers and anything else that could lead to physical harm to you if you don’t execute it properly. Inevitably, wherever you are, someone’s going to have fireworks. Remember, it’s hard figuring out to execute the fireworks sober.

That said, if you’re slumped up drunk somewhere I’d stay slumped up drunk. According to Pennsylvania State Police, there are permitted novelty items/sparklers, but State law prohibits the use of Consumer and Display Fireworks in Pennsylvania without a permit. Beside the fact you’re potentially performing an illegal act, and the firework is hard to execute, you’re drunk. There’s too many variables against you for a happy ending here.

Winding the list down, remember what the holiday is for. According to History, the fourth of July, or Independence day, has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941. However, the holiday has been celebrated since 1776 as the birth of America’s Independence. Congress voted for America’s independence on July 2nd, but didn’t approve the Declaration until the 4th.

In 2017, the holiday’s turned into a cookout celebration, as 80 percent of Americans attend a barbecue, picnic or cookout. However, 76 percent get together with family while 63 percent attend a fireworks display. Ironically, 66 percent (should be a hundred, because the holiday’s celebrating America’s independence) display an American flag.

To round things out, now that you remember what the holiday is for don’t overdo your outfit.Two of the three flag colors is fine, but very few people can pull off all three without looking like a firecracker. Less is more. Instagram pictures are cool, but avoid the cliche captions.

With that in mind, also remember to not partake in the aforementioned pitfalls on Independence day that could jeopardize your independent freedom, and you have a successful holiday celebration!

Happy Holidays!

Air Jordan’s Appeal Is In Its Versatility, Making It Universal

The Culture

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July 3, 2017

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Air Jordan’s Appeal Is In Its Versatility, Making It Universal

Nostalgically looking back to my junior year of undergrad, I remember taking the department’s required Comm 310: Communication Research Methods. Essentially, my partner and I picked a research topic and created a full APA research paper. Eventually, we settled on brands with the most clout, or were the most influential. And atop our list was Air Jordan. For our research, we focused solely on the brands footwear compared to its competitors.

Unlike most sneaker brands, Air Jordan is genuinely universal, as any gender, age or race has worn the sneaker. For example, I could go out for lunch with my grandfather and father, and all three of us could potentially be sporting Air Jordans. Interestingly enough, all three of us could be sporting the same exact Air Jordan sneaker as well, as the brand is known for its limited releases, and reincarnation of past silhouettes.

For some reason, perhaps the initial roll out, a certain type of person isn’t attached to the Air Jordan sneaker. Using New Balance as an example, when you see the notorious white New Balance 608v4 you more than likely associate the sneaker with an old, more than likely Caucasian, man.

Perhaps, there’s a difference in cultures, as when you see the mz50 1v1 New Balance sneakers you more than likely associate it with African American youth, especially in the greater Philadelphia area. But, the Air Jordan has historically permeated every culture.

vBut, the love for the Air Jordan has just started, as I’m not the only one with an appreciation for the sneaker. I sport three pairs of Air Jordans, but Aflamu Johnson edged me out with an infinite love of the brand.

“Jordans are, and will always be the top crème de la crème of sneakers,” Aflamu Johnson said to Uproxx. “You can wear Jordans to a wedding.”

According to Uproxx, Johnson’s collection of Air Jordans is worth approximately 70 thousand dollars. Reexamining an earlier point, Air Jordan’s limited releases has provided consumers the opportunity to flip, or buy multiple quantities of the sneaker, and resell them online for as much as triple the price. But, Johnson’s content holding on to his sneakers for now. Essentially, purchasing sneakers is seen as an investment within the industry.

Similar to purchasing old cars and waiting until they become antique, sneaker hoarders sit on their sneakers until the price value has peaked. Johnson said to Uproxx he knew a man who sold his sneaker collection for over 150 grand, and used the cash for a down payment on an apartment. Well, beside the fact he made a down payment on an apartment, and not a house the example shows you how lucrative sneaker hoarding could be, especially as a side job.

(Did someone say early retirement?)

Besides early retirement, think about the financial security the money tied up in sneakers Johnson has. If money gets tight, simply sell a pair or two of Air Jordans.

“Just in case something happens,” Johnson said. “I know that I have money in the closet.”

But, it’s more than just purchasing, and reselling the sneakers. Air Jordan is timeless.

“Every NBA player, every rapper, and hip hop, R&B guy, they have a Jordan collection,” Johnson said. “White or black. Even baseball guys will have a Jordan collection. Boxers will wear Jordan trunks. College football teams will wear Jordan undershirts. And I mean the jump man, the Jumpman logo will be on the shirts forever.”

So there you have it! We could go on forever about the impact and appeal of Air Jordan. Ultimately, it exists as a status symbol, not limited to African American culture. No matter what price point you obtained your Air Jordan, you all were revered for wearing one of the most iconic sneakers in global history.

Problematic? Slightly.

Factual?

Yes.

Looking At The Outcome of The Philadelphia Eagles, Expectations

The Culture

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July 3, 2017

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Looking At The Outcome of The Philadelphia Eagles, Expectations

NFL teams start training camp July 22nd, while the preseason starts August 1st (Hall of Fame game), and the season starts September 7th. But, that didn’t stop us from predicting the outcome of our hometown team, the Philadelphia Eagles. To clarify, the outcomes that’ll be predicted are statistics for the notable offensive skill positions, and game predictions for the team’s 2017 final regular season record.

To put things into perspective, we must look back at last year’s season. Going into the 2016 season, expectations were low for the Eagles, as they had the pairing of rookie Quarterback Carson Wentz who they drafted with the second overall pick, and rookie Head Coach Doug Pederson who they snagged from Kansas City Chiefs Head Coach Andy Reid’s staff. (No doubt, the Eagles were trying to duplicate their 1999 season when they hired Reid and drafted Donovan McNabb).

Surprisingly, the 2016 Eagles started the season 3-0, including a win over fellow keystone state team Pittsburgh Steelers who finished their season one game away from the Super Bowl. After the Eagles week 4 bye week, the team went 4-9 down the stretch, finishing the season 7-9. Perhaps, Wentz hit the rookie wall, as the NFL season is longer than the NCAA season, or maybe it was lack of talent around him. Let’s not cry over spilled milk, and refocus our attention on the 2017 season.

Going into the 2017 season, all of the Eagles coordinators returned from last year, so there won’t be an acclimation period learning the new system, opposed to last year.

Via free agency, the Eagles notable signings were former Chicago Bear wide receiver Alshon Jeffery, and former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Torrey Smith. Also, the team signed former New England Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount as well. Notable were corner backs Nolan Carroll and Leodis McKelvin, outside linebacker Connor Barwin, and defensive tackle Bennie Logan.

During the NFL Draft, the Eagles selected Tennessee defensive end Derek Barnett with the 14th overall pick. After two departures at corner back, the Eagles selected Washington corner back Sidney Jones in the second round, and West Virginia corner back Rasul Douglas in the third, both projected to start.

Before we predict anything, Jeffery was a pro bowl wide receiver with the Bears, obtaining at least 85 catches, 1,100 yards, and 7 touchdowns two consecutive years before an injury riddled 2015. In a contract year, Jeffery was suspended four games, and was underwhelming before the suspension, leading to him signing just a one year contract this off season with the Eagles. If Jeffery finds his 2014 production, the Eagles have to decide to extend him or Jordan Matthews.

Pertaining to Smith, he signed a three year contract, but there’s an out after a year, so he’ll have to be a productive. Smith’s eclipsed a thousand yards once, and has obtained double digit touchdowns once as well in a different season. Honestly, if Nelson Agholor can play better during the preseason I wouldn’t be surprised to see Smith released before the regular season. Jeffery, Jordan Matthews, Zach Ertz, Darren Sproles, and Agholor would be enough. Let’s predict!

And, this is for my fantasy football players. Starting with starting tight end Ertz, he’s obtained at least 700 yards and two touchdowns the last three years, and it’s arguable he was the number one option the last two. Defenses will have to shift their attention to Jeffery on the outside. Also, don’t forget Matthews in the slot, so Ertz will benefit from soft coverage in 2017. However, Jefferey more than likely will perform even with potential double teams, because he’s that good.

All in all, I believe Ertz’s will have his best season this year, obtaining upwards of 800 yards, and 6-8 touchdowns, as the improved passing options Wentz will allow the Eagles to move down the field better. And, moving down the field opens up more scoring opportunities. Based on my 2017 fantasy football rankings, Ertz is viable number one tight end you could draft in the later mid rounds.

Moving on to the wide receivers, Jeffery is poised to have an elite season, perhaps his best. We’ve seen him produce in the past, he’s coming off a bad season, and he signed a one year prove it contract. If Jefferey produces his best season, he’ll obtain at least 90 catches, approximately 1,500 yards, and over 10 touchdowns.

Well, Wentz is in his second year, and players historically have made their biggest jump in production in year two, as their accustomed to a full NFL regular season. So, these numbers are obtainable, and I’m banking on it, as I have Jeffery number 10 in my wide receiver rankings (rankings haven’t been updated). Okay, the number two passing option in the Eagles’ wide receiver corps will be Matthews though he’s in the slot.

For Matthews, his production also benefits from the arrival of Jeffery. Defense’s can’t focus on him as much, but he’ll see more attention than Ertz. Matthews hasn’t been able to eclipse a thousand yards in his first three seasons, but obtained eight touchdowns each of his first two. Just three yards away from a thousand in 2015, Matthews had 85 catches, and 8 touchdowns as the number one wide receiver.

Remember, I expect Wentz to make a jump in production, and Jeffery makes everyone better. So, expect Matthews to obtain upwards of 900 yards, 6-8 touchdowns, and at least 80 catches. Matthews is a viable flex wide receiver in fantasy football. Moving on, the number three option in the Eagles wide receiver corps will be Smith or Agholor. Irrelevant in fantasy football, expect either one to obtain a maximum of approximately 50 catches, 700 yards, and 4-5 touchdowns.

No, I didn’t pull the projections out of thin air. The projections have been Smith’s average his six seasons in the league. However, if Agholor obtains this it means he surpassed Smith for the number two wide receiver spot alongside Jeffery on the outside. If he does that, it means he’s poised to break out. Based on Algholor’s first two seasons, the aforementioned projection is him breaking out.

Moving into the backfield, Blount’s coming off his best season with just under 1,200 yards, and 18 rushing touchdowns on 299 carries. That’s not happening in Philadelphia, but Blount could max out his production with 9-10 touchdowns, and 900-1,000 yards. Blount’s a sleeper number two running back in fantasy football. But, Blount loses value in point per reception (PPR) leagues, and that’s where passing/third downs back Sproles comes into play.

Solely pertaining to PPR leagues, Sproles, 34 (old for a running back), should be able to amass at least 50 catches for the third straight year. However, I think he can max out his yardage to upwards of 500 yards. Remember, Wentz’s numbers will improve. As for touchdowns, Sproles maxed out at six one year, but has perpetually scored three or less, so I’m projecting three.

And, now it’s time for the main event. Strategically projecting the other notable offensive skill positions first, let’s calculate all of there number first. Based on the projections of everyone else, Wentz will have 4,400 passing yards, and 30-35 passing touchdowns. Other lesser known players may add, or take away from the aforementioned players production. So, let’s just use the 4,400, and 30-35. Last year, Wentz had just under 3,800 passing yards, and 16 touchdowns.

So, yardage wise Wentz’s 2017 projection isn’t far fetched, but he’ll have to almost double his passing touchdowns from his rookie season. And, 30 is a lot for a veteran quarterback, but if everything falls right Wentz could max out at 30-35. Finally, we’ll shift our focus to the game predictions for the team.

Week 1: Facing the Redskins on the road, the Eagles should be able to snag a win. Redskins fired their GM, their QB wanted out, and their top two receivers left. This team will start slow. 1-0

Week 2: Playing against their former Head Coach, expect the Eagles to struggle against a prominent defense, but the Eagles offense is better than Kansas City’s lousy one. Eagles sneak a low scoring win again. 2-0

Weeks 3, 7, 11, 15, and 17: These five weeks, and week 1, are divisional games. A rule of thumb of teams is to go at least 3-3 during these six games. It’s hard to beat an opponent twice in the same season. 4-3

Week 4: I think travelling to the west coast catches up with the Eagles, and they lose a shoot out against Philip Rivers. 4-4.

Week 5: The Cardinals are looking to make one last super bowl push, as it appears to be Carson Palmer, and Larry Fitzgerald’s last season. 4-5

Week 6: Short week against the Panthers, but a surprise win. 5-5

Week 8: Easy win against the 49ers. 6-5

Week 9: Denver’s defense will be too much. 6-6

Week 12: Easy win against the Bears. 7-6

Week 13: Prime time, so everyone will see the Legion of Boom dominate the Eagles. 7-7

Week 14: Easy win against the Rams. 8-7

Week 15: Raiders with a healthy Derek Carr destroy the Eagles. 8-8

Note: Week 4 is close, so a win puts the Eagles at 9-7, and a potentially in the wild card.

Ironwood Custom BMW R80 Motorcycle

The Culture

Staff

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June 29, 2017

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Your Smartphone Has Made You Dumb Lazy

The Culture

Staff

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June 28, 2017

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We told you the impact social media has had on millennials, but we didn’t take in account the impact smartphones has had on them as well. Remember, a millennial is a person between the ages of 18-34, according to the Pew Research Center. To unveil how your smartphone is making you dumb lazy, we must teleport back to the the year 1992 when the world’s first smartphone, Simon, was created by IBM, according to Businessinsider.

Actually, let’s not go that far back, as the first smartphone to catch the eye of Americans was the iPhone. Released in June of 2007, Steve Jobs changed the world forever with his first smartphone. As of June 2017, Apple has released 10 smartphones, most recently the iPhone 7 in September of 2016. And, anticipation is high for the release of the iPhone 8. Okay, let’s obtain the knowledge of what the device does.

According to Phonescoop, a smartphone is a mobile personal computer. So, essentially a smartphone is a device with the capabilities of a computer (no more sneaking onto the house computer for porn, horny teenagers) that can fit into your pocket. The laziness of humans, directly because of smartphones, is evident in 2017, and here’s how.

Let’s start with Uber. A technology company, Uber develops, markets, and operates the Uber car transportation and food delivery mobile apps, Uber and Ubereats respectively. To clarify, a mobile is a software application designed to run on a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet computer, so essentially a mobile version of what you would see on your computer, hence mobile. Uber replaced humans need to to use traditional taxi cab services.

In addition, there’s no need to talk to other humans anymore. Using Uber, a person has to open the app, tap request, and in approximately 15 minutes their driver will be at their front door. And, when the person enters the car they don’t have to acknowledge the driver, as Uber allows you to put in your destination before the driver arrives. The most a person has to do is shake their head yes, confirming their destination, and they’re not obligated to talk to the driver again.

Let’s shift our focus to Dunkin Donuts’ on-the-go mobile ordering. A feature inside their Dunkin Donuts app, on-the-go ordering allows customers to place their order in advance to them arriving in the store. The feature “saves time”, but unless you’re purchasing a sandwich, nothing takes more than 90 seconds to make (I used to work at DD). Speaking from experience, the feature allows customers to never acknowledge employees, obtaining their food and leaving.

Exposing hypocrisy, if there’s an expectation that the customer expects from the employee, customers have to meet an expectation as well. Before the feature, customers had to walk inside, place their order, and hold a conversation. But now, the customer doesn’t have to say thank you after obtaining their on-the-go items. To put that into perspective, customers used to get mad at my co workers when they didn’t say you’re welcome after they said thank you. (The irony is real.)

To round things out, let’s end with Tinder. Essentially, Tinder is location based mobile app that allows its users to chat with each other, contingent on if they matched. To clarify, matching is based on Facebook and Spotify profiles, according to Techtimes. However, both users have to swipe right, indicating their interest, before the chatting feature is unveiled. If at least one party swipes left, the two will never be able to chat.

Honestly, this is the most blatant app that has made people lazy. To an extent, you can justify not wanting to talk to your Uber driver or Dunkin Donuts barista, as you just want the service they provide, not the conversation. But essentially, Tinder is a dating app, and people are too lazy to go outside, and meet their potential soul mate in 2017.

Apparently, millennials have decided that using cheesy pickup lines on Tinder is better than walking up to a person, complimenting them, and having a conversation. Indeed, chivalry has died. To drive home the point, people at my university have fallen to lower depths, as in addition to Tinder there’s an unanimous Twitter page people can DM, and compliment their crush on. At least with Tinder you have a shot, because they know who you are.

Smartphones should enhance your interpersonal skills, not destroy them.

Important to note, these article does not pertain to anyone with social anxiety, social anxiety disorder, or avoidant personality disorder.

Here’s How To Get Into College And Stay There!

The Culture

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June 27, 2017

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Here’s How To Get Into College And Stay There!

It doesn’t matter what college you get accepted into, but rather the fact you got accepted. Using myself as an example, I had a 2.2 GPA graduating high school. Fast forward to my impending senior year, I have an associates degree I obtained with a 3.43 GPA, and a Cum Laude distinction; thankfully, scholarships and grants that keep me out of debt, and a 3.4 GPA entering my senior year (GPA doesn’t carry over from school to school).

Many questions more than likely arise trying to decipher how this happened, and I have answers. Initially, my mindset was university or bust pertaining to where I’d enroll after high school graduation, but I also knew cost effectiveness was a major key (They don’t want you to avoid going into debt. The they I’m talking about is Fafsa). And remember, I had a 2.2, so I had to humble myself. State school it was.

Just so you know, there are 14 state schools, and none of them are Temple University, or Penn State University. You can check out the full list here.

So, I researched the cheapest state schools in Pennsylvania, avoiding out of state costs. Prices varied mainly because of room and board. I zoned in on the following: California University of Pennsylvania, Clarion University, and Lock Haven University. Slippery Rock, where I’m at now, didn’t come into play until the summer of 2016 when they offered more money than front runner Clarion.

However, everyone’s experience is subjective, but after research I found 15 tips, according to Livecareer, that generally apply to everyone. A few resonating tips from the list were: start early, know yourself, reduce your list of colleges and universities, get organized, apply early (don’t just start early), and write killer application essays (Indeed, I did. I credited that as the sole reason my 2.2 GPA got accepted into all three universities here).

Okay, you’re in. For me, I was in, but I didn’t want to be in debt after college graduation, so I enrolled into community college, specifically Montgomery County Community College. So, many of the pitfalls I’m about to warn you about I escaped by default, as I was going to class Tuesday-Thursday from 11am-10pm my freshman year. And, 1:30pm-9pm Monday-Thursday my sophomore year. For the weekend, I was working 25-30 hours a week saving up for when I transferred.

Obviously, there are academic pitfalls you need to avoid, but, I’m also going to expose you to the social aspect of college you’re about to indulge in.

Starting with the academics, your freshman year should be devoted to establishing a strong GPA, as it’s harder to bring it up as the semesters fly by. Establishing a strong GPA is key when it comes to you applying to university scholarships later on. Oh, that’s another thing, you can apply for scholarships you weren’t eligible for as an incoming freshman the following year, so it’s important you have the GPA to back up your scholarship inquiries.

In addition, don’t do too much your freshman year. There’s no need to declare a minor, as you pick that up in your junior or senior year when you’ve completed classes unknowingly toward your desired minor. For example, I’m a communication major, but had nine of those credits count towards an English minor, so needing only three more courses I declared English as my minor. But, make sure the minor makes sense for your major as well as mine did.

As a freshman, focus on liberal studies courses, sprinkling in a few major related courses. Again, find balance. You don’t want to be a junior in Introduction to Psychology, but you don’t want your senior year to be solely major related courses. That’s my advice, and here’s what Collegeboard suggested. They discussed extra circulars. Indeed, you need to join them for networking purposes, and you need to create a LinkedIn account as well (Go to career services).

But, I’m putting more emphasis on establishing a strong GPA, but it’s subjective. So, if you think you can handle your first full time college roster and extra circulars at the same time then do it. Personally, I’d wait until around midterms first semester to join extra circulars. At that point, you know what to expect inside the classroom, and can find the balance. I’d rather miss out on a half semester of participating in extra circulars than join right away, and be put out due to grades.
Before I get to the social aspect of college, you should also know to select your class times wisely. I don’t believe 8am classes should exist, and you should avoid them if you can, as you’ll be up late at night completing assignments.

Pertaining to the social aspect of college, freshmen are typically mandated to live on campus their first year. If so, this is a blessing in disguise. Living off campus is glamorous, as you can essentially do what you want, but coming out of high school that’s not what’s best for you, and your parents’ money. Please, don’t indulge in alcohol or drugs during the weekend, if you must use them. Also, don’t stash them for a friend in your dorm, as if you get caught you’re going down.

To round things out, put yourself out there. As previously stated, I transferred into my university as a junior, and didn’t have the luxury of living in the dorms with my entire class my first year of college, but you more than likely will.

So, take advantage of this, and introduce yourself to essentially every one you meet. (A bit weird, but what’s worse: being nicely weird or being a loner your upperclassmen years of college?) Freshman dorm doors are almost always open, so walk in to introduce yourself (knock first). I don’t have all the answers, but I can tell you what worked for me, and what pitfalls I fell into. Coincidentally, a friend of mine has a YouTube channel where she offered her advice as well.

Please, check out her video here. Also, subscribe to her channel, Courtney Raine, and let me know your thoughts below!

When Are We Going to Stop Deluding Ourselves?

The Culture

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June 26, 2017

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When Are We Going to Stop Deluding Ourselves?

Superstition is an irrational belief arising from fear of the unknown. Too many are controlled by it: We unconsciously avoid walking under ladders and over cracks. Some have logical explanations, though. Take the black cat obsession. Often when a person passed away from a fever, a cat would be seen perched on their chest or staring into their face, giving cats the bad rap that they suck the life from your body. In truth, cats have an odd fascination for staring at the human face and like to seek out sources of warmth. There are superstitions like these for all aspects of our lives, including play, and most are irrational or downright ridiculous.

Did you bump into that little old lady trying to avoid a black cat? Or perhaps you were late for an important meeting because you were searching for that “special” bracelet you wore when you aced your exams. You do this because of what some term the “uncertainty hypothesis” where you try to control the outcome of an activity that is outside of your control. The less control you feel, the more likely you are to become superstitious.

Mirrors have inspired a wide range of superstitions. The Romans felt that life was renewed every seven years and that a reflection was their soul, hence the fear of shattering one. One’s soul could actually become trapped, it was believed, and that a departed soul may get lost on its way to eternity by wandering into a reflection. Many other ingrained superstitions revolve around weddings. “Jumping the broom” (getting married) stemmed from European Middle Ages and African folklore. Weddings are steeped in superstition: A new husband has to carry his wife over the threshold to avoid negative energy even as the bridesmaids are provided as a distraction from the bride, who is hiding behind a veil. We are still doing these rituals to this day.

How much of these irrational beliefs are indicative of mental health issues? It may not always be easy to recognize as a condition, and many people do not even talk about this topic because of the stigma associated with it. Is it superstitious thinking or is it really an anxiety disorder? Experts themselves are divided.

Is it time to let all these idiosyncratic quirks go? The best way to start overcoming your dependence on superstitious beliefs is to find out where/how they originated and even solving them with science. Stop confusing causation with coincidence. Just because two events happen one after the other does not mean that they are related. Too much emphasis on that kind of thinking can result in a consuming state of paranoia.

After all, these delusions do not really bring you any positive energy nor peace of mind. When making decisions, rely on common sense and sound reasoning as opposed to supposed signs from the realm of fantasy. For instance, discard that myth about ringing ears, which some firmly believe happens when someone is talking about you. If this were the case, celebrities would be in constant distress! Surround yourself with practical people who do not believe in superstitions. Create positive feelings without the help of any strange practices. At the end of the day, the need for control is the driving force behind most superstitions. So, stop attributing a successful outcome to some inanimate object or some peculiar ritual and start building self-confidence from that is real.

Who’s The Black Sheep of Your Family?

The Culture

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June 23, 2017

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Okay, we all have one, or a few. But, today I’m talking about the family’s black sheep. Keep in mind, not all black sheep are the same, but like a one size fits all item we’ll all be able to wear the shame of each other’s black sheep.

Before we proceed, I’ve conducted research on the signs of a black sheep, so inevitably there’ll be a few black sheep reading this. So, welcome, sheep. Now, let’s get to the definition/signs of a black sheep.

A black sheep is a disfavored or disreputable (family) member of a group.

According to Whatculture, there are 10 signs you are the black sheep. If you’re always doing things by yourself, living the life you want and the one your family wants, you may be the black sheep. Hop stepping into the next sign, if you’re family doesn’t respect your job you may be the black sheep, even though a job is a job.

Interestingly enough, if you feel comfortable calling your elderly family members by their first names, you may be the black sheep. After three questionable signs, the fourth sign of being the black sheep is feeling awkward at family gatherings. (Wait, you mean I’m a black sheep?) Then again, Thanksgiving dinner is better than whatever they’re packing into the food at my university’s dining hall. Also then again, I have to be patronized about my studies, so all it balances out.

Hitting home a bit too much, the next sign is being at the center of every argument. I feel this on a spiritual level. Have you ever gotten into an argument after obtaining an attitude toward someone after they accused you of possessing an attitude when you initially didn’t have one? Because, same. Moving on, the next sign is you’re the adult your elderly family members tell the kids to avoid becoming. (Hey man, more alcohol and drugs for us, right?)

In all seriousness, more often than not the kids parents tell their kids to avoid, or the black sheep, have their head on a swivel, college educated, and have a decent job. (Take that, Sondra!)

That said, the next sign indicates not being trusted to babysit as a sign as well. Well, maybe we just don’t want to watch your kids! Better yet, maybe we don’t want kids, so there’s no need to practice. (Well, practice watching them, because we sure are practicing making them).

Rounding out the list, another sign is if your romantic partner is never accepted by the family. (Mom, or Tanya (remember the third black sheep sign?)I understand you don’t like Julie, because she’s a stripper, but it’s that sole quality that helps me sleep better at night. I need her for survival).

Back to seriousness, the second to last sign is more than likely the most common, and it’s not being able to do anything right. If this is you, or someone you know, this means “the higher-ups have all come together as a collective with conspiracies to end my run and send (them) a message.” (Thanks, Drake)

All jokes aside, this black sheep is the lone wolf, and unlike our first sign they more than likely aren’t well off, because of it. And, the last sign drives home the point, as it is when you, or someone you know, feels they don’t belong. While this can happen for a variety of reasons, religious differences, lifestyle choices, etc, at the end of the day your family’s black sheep is just that, your family’s black sheep.

Being redemptive, it’s important for families to realize that though you might not like specific family members you should love them. To drive home the point, that means sticking up for your family against strangers, friends who put them down, and any other negative entities that may talk down on them.

Yes, you come in the world alone, via birth, but you spend the most of your waking life, or majority, with family. Indeed, friends come a little later, but they come and go. If you argue with your mom, you’re going to see her again. However, an argument with a friend could sever ties with them the rest of your waking days.

And, that brings me to another point, make sure you never leave family on bad terms. More than likely you’ll be able to reconcile another day, but one day your parents inevitably won’t wake up. That said, it wouldn’t feel good sitting at the wake pondering your last encounter with them as an argument.

All in all, as a realist I understand the black sheep label won’t go away, but I wanted to provide an alternative perspective on the topic.

Let me know your thoughts below!

How Will Amazon’s Tech Change Whole Foods?

The Culture

Staff

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June 23, 2017

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How Will Amazon’s Tech Change Whole Foods?

Amazon, a electronic commerce and cloud computing company bought Whole Foods, a supermarket chain, for approximately $13.7 billion in cash Friday, June 16th, according to CNN.

“Millions of people love Whole Foods Market because they offer the best natural and organic foods, and they make it fun to eat healthy,” Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos said to CNN.

Okay, so consumers, at least OG Whole Foods customers, are more than likely pondering what this transaction entails, and we have clarity. After the move, an Amazon statement said Whole Foods will continue to operate as its own brand, according to CNN, and keep their CEO John Mackey as well. Also, the headquarters will remain in Austin, Texas. So, let’s zone in on why Amazon made the move.

According to CNN, the transaction shows Amazon’s interest in moving into the business of operating traditional brick and mortar stores. To clarify, a brick and mortar store is essentially a brand name store such as McDonald’s, and it’s golden arch, and the physical presence the brand’s building has. In addition, Amazon is interested in groceries, establishing their own delivery service, AmazonFresh, where consumers can buy groceries online and pick them up in person.

But, I don’t think the rest of the supermarket business approves Amazon’s latest venture, as top stores such as Kroger (KR), Target (TGT), Costco (COST), SuperValu (SVU), and Sprouts’ (SFM stock all went down the same day of Amazon acquiring Whole Foods. That said, S&P Global Ratings reported that Amazon may need to take on more debt after acquiring Whole Foods, according to CNN.

Contrarily, the transaction may save Whole Foods. Since 2015, the company’s been battling accusations that they were overcharging customers in New York. In addition, John Oliver performed a skit about said high prices, both slowing sales growth for the supermarket.

It’s time to address the elephant in the room, and that’s the expensive pricing of Whole Foods’ products. Because, there’s always truth in a joke. Essentially, it’s the dilemma everyone on the outside looking in is pondering, as Amazon is historically known for their low prices. Logically, the two companies will probably meet somewhere in the middle, not too cheap and not too expensive.

Now, let’s shift our attention to Amazon’s potential technology incorporation into Whole Foods services. Dream scenario, consumers are able to purchase their Whole Foods items online, and have them delivered within two days using Amazon Prime. In all seriousness, we can expect all of Whole Foods’ apps, website, to more than likely appear under Amazon’s web service.

And as previously stated, Amazon does have their Amazonfresh service where consumers can order products online then pick them up in person. So, it’s not out of the realm of possibility to say Whole Foods becomes apart of the service. Essentially a move solely benefiting Amazon, Whole Foods would become a viable brick and motar store for consumers to retrieve their ordered online from. As of right now, that’s what Amazon’s service is missing.

Also, apparently Amazon’s working on an idea they dubbed Amazon Go, according to Motherboard. Essentially, it’s an automated store tracking what you put into your cart, and bills you when you’re done via a smartphone app. Innovative, yet costly to employees, the potential idea may become the wave of the future for supermarkets in general. But, Whole Foods appears to be first in line if the idea gets launched.

Imagine this, you walk into a supermarket, put your items into your cart, and walk out, never having to deal with poor customer service again. Soon enough, people wouldn’t have to communicate with each other at all, using their smartphones as crutches. Well, we don’t know what Amazon and Whole Foods have up their sleeves, but that didn’t stop us from speculating.

Let us know your thoughts below!

Are The Sixers Giving Teams The Blueprint To Success?

The Culture

Staff

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June 22, 2017

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Are The Sixers Giving Teams The Blueprint To Success?

It was the end of the 2012-2013 season, and Head Coach Doug Collins had just resigned to spend more time with his family. Collins left behind a 34-48 team in his final year. The year before, Collins lead the team to a 35-31 record, lockout season, and the eight seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Shockingly, the team won a series against the number seeded Chicago Bulls, and took the Boston Celtics to seven games before being eliminated.

So, the 2012-2013 season was heralded with big expectations, and they got bigger when the Sixers involved themselves in a four team trade centered around Dwight Howard. Essentially, the Sixers received Andrew Bynum, formerly of the Los Angeles Lakers, while the Lakers received Howard, formerly of the Orlando Magic, and the Denver Nuggets received Andre Iguodala, formerly of the Philadelphia 76ers.

Also, the Magic received a slew of players, most notably Arron Afflalo, and also received protected first round picks from the other three teams involved in the trade, according to CBS.

However, Bynum never played a second for the Sixers, because of a “bowling accident”. The following year, Brent Brown took over for Collins, and Sam Hinkie becomes the General Manager. Hinkie stepped down in the middle of the 2015-2016 season, but that wasn’t before he started what people now know as “the process”.

In addition, the process is nearing its end coming into the 2017-2018 season, in lieu of his firing. During his short time, Hinkie maneuvered various trades, not focusing on the on the court product, to perpetually draft in the top five. In fact, Hinkie wasted no time starting the process, trading All-Star point guard Jrue Holiday during the 2013 NBA Draft to the New Orleans Pelicans for a protected top 5 pick 2014 draft pick, and Nerlens Noel.

The move wasn’t well received at the time, but Holiday, 27, would’ve been exiting his prime by the time the Sixers ended the process. During the draft, Hinkie would draft Michael-Carter Williams, the rookie of the year. However, during the season the team tied the record for longest losing streak.

Interestingly enough, fans became weary Hinkie was losing on purpose, and had their suspicions all but confirmed when Hinkie traded Evan Turner, Spencer Hawes, Lavoy Allen, and Thaddeus Young during the season. Remember, part of the process involved maneuvering trades to obtain high draft picks, not just losing on purpose. In return for the trades, Hinkie received a 2015 protected top 10 draft pick, and five second round draft picks.

So, the Sixers finished 19-63 during the 2013-2014 season. Because of the Holiday trade, the Sixers had two first round picks in the 2014 NBA Draft. The Sixers selected Joel Embiid with the number three pick, and Elfrid Payton with the 10th pick. However, Payton was immediately shipped to the Orlando Magic for essentially Dario Saric, and another future first round pick. And, the 2014-2015 Sixers got statically worse, finishing 18-64.

But, Hinkie showcased his wherewithal during the season, signing Robert Covington to a four year contract. Covington was selected as a participant for the 2015 Rising Stars Challenge. However, fans overlooked the move as they did the year before when Hinkie received a 2015 protected top 10 draft pick for trading Thaddeus Young. The Covington signing was overshadowed when Hinkie traded Carter-Williams. However, Hinkie received the Lakers 2017 first round pick.

During the 2015 NBA Draft, the Sixers selected Jahlil Okafor with the number three pick. At the end of the season, Hinkie completed a trade with the Sacremento Kings where he gave up a 2019 first round pick, but obtained the right swap to first round picks with the Kings during the respective 2016 and 2017 NBA Drafts. This trade was pivotal, and I’ll explain a minute. During the 2015-2016 season, Hinkie resigned as General Manager, but the process continued.

Surprisingly, the process was expedited once Hinkie resigned, but his 10-72 record he left behind in his final season helped. The Sixers finally received the first overall pick, and selected Ben Simmons. In addition, they selected Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot and Furkan Korkmaz with the 24th and 26th picks, respectively. Without Hinkie, the Sixers finished 28-54 during the 2016-2017 season.

Remember, Hinkie’s trade with the Kings obtained the right swap to first round picks with the Kings during the respective 2016 and 2017 NBA Drafts. Because of the trade, the Sixers were able to swap first round picks with the Kings. The Sixers reportedly jumped to the number three pick again, but traded with the Boston Celtics to obtain the first overall pick for a second year in a row. The Sixers are expected to draft Markelle Fultz, 19, from the University of Washington.

Because of Hinkie’s tenure, the Sixers acquired the following notable names: Embiid, Okafor, Simmons, Covington, Korkmaz, and Luwawu-Cabarrot. Korkmaz is a wildcard, as he opted to stay in Turkey after being drafted, and Cabarrot’s in the Developmental league as of right now. But, a potential nucleus of Embiid, Simmons, Covington, and Fultz is on the horizon. Every player is 23 or younger, except Covington who’s 26.

While Okafor hasn’t panned out, the process is poised to end after the 2017 Draft, if Fultz is the pick, as the Sixers will have four potential stars in their starting lineup. The team must evaluate the potential, and not lose on purpose. However, critics aren’t sold on the process as a viable way of bettering your team. During Hinkie’s tenure, the team made four first draft selections, and he was responsible for obtaining the three selections this past year, so seven total.

As of June 2017, the Sixers have three potential star players to show for it, as Covington was a free agent signing. So, it’s arguable whether the process is responsible for the Sixer’s current state, or if it was the amount of picks they had. Hitting on two out of seven selections is just under 30 percent.

Time will be our judge

Should The NFL Legalize Marijuana?

The Culture

Staff

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June 21, 2017

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So, on the federal level, marijuana illegal, according to NCSL. But, as of April 2017, 29 states have made medical marijuana and/or recreational marijuana legal, dating back to 1996 when California was the first to legalize it. Essentially, you are protected by law in the states that have legalized recreational marijuana, but can’t export the goods with you back to your home state.

Refocusing our attention on alcohol, all states prohibit providing alcohol to persons under 21, according to the Federal Trade Commission. In addition, there are limited exceptions pertaining to lawful employment, religious activities, or consent by a parent, guardian, or spouse, but let’s just use 21 for our argument.

Based on the information presented, one could say alcohol is better than marijuana, as after 21 years of life anyone could consume it. And, marijuana is illegal on the federal level while recreational usage is legal in just a few states. Well, that’s correct, but remember that alcohol was once illegal on the federal level as well.

It was in 1917, after the United States entered World War I, and President Woodrow Wilson instituted a temporary wartime prohibition in order to save grain for producing food, according to History.

Shortly thereafter, Congress proposed the 18th Amendment, banning the transportation, manufacture, and sale of intoxicating liquors, or alcohol. The bill was ratified on January 29, 1919, and went into effect a year later, but 33 states had already created their own state level prohibition. In October of the same year, Congress passed the National Prohibition Act, providing guidelines for the federal enforcement of Prohibition.

During the course of the 20s, prohibition was successful early on, as arrests and alcohol consumption was down. However, those who still wanted to drink did, dubbed bootlegging. Essentially, bootlegging was the smuggling of alcohol across state lines and the informal production of liquor in private homes, according to History.

Career criminal Al Capone monetized bootlegging, earning an estimated $60 million annually from his operations. More criminals like Capone entered the bootlegging industry, and crime went up, most notably the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.

Eventually, in February of 1933, Congress proposed the 21st Amendment to the Constitution that would repealed the 18th, or the prohibition of alcohol. In December of 1933, Utah provided the 36th and final necessary vote for ratification, and all states abandoned prohibition by 1966. In the 30s, the country faced the Great Depression, and creating jobs/revenue by legalizing the alcohol industry was best for business.

Based on the additional information presented, I don’t believe one could say alcohol is better than marijuana. Both were illegal on the federal level at a point in time, but the difference is marijuana remains illegal. While there isn’t another Great Depression coming to America in the foreseeable future, according to a CNN article, let’s look at the facts of alcohol v. Marijuana.

According to Drugabuse, 88,000 alcohol-related deaths occur each year. Contrarily, the number of deaths caused by marijuana is almost zero. Onlinelibrary reported THC becomes fatal after consuming between 15-70 grams. To put that into perspective, a standard joint contains a half of gram, so a person would have to smoke between 238 and 1,113 joints in a day to overdose on marijuana.

Pertaining to crime, the substance that puts someone at risk for getting hurt, or hurting others, is alcohol, according to The Lancet. But, a NCBI marijuana study found that couples who used marijuana had lower rates of intimate partner violence in the first 9 years of marriage.

However, when it comes to driving both substances are bad. Marijuana increases the odds of being in a car accident by 83 percent, according to a Cuinjuryresearch study. Then again, the study found the odds of being in a car accident after consuming marijuana increased to more than 2,200 percent.

Bottom line, I’m tired of hearing people say marijuana is worse than alcohol when in reality it’s the other way around. It’s arguable if marijuana is good for you, but marijuana is better than alcohol. I’ve seen people get blackout drunk, not being able to remember what happened the night before, after consuming alcohol. A Tandfonline survey reported college students engaged in risky behavior such as driving drunk, or having unprotected sex, after getting blackout drunk.

Contrarily, I’ve never seen someone get blackout high, as I don’t think such term even exist. Former professional athletes Ricky Williams and Kyle Turley are leading the marijuana revolution in 2017, and were recently involved in a Sports Illustrated documentary standing up for marijuana usage for NFL players, and everyone.

“You can think what you want about smoking,” Turley said in the documentary. “You can think what you want about dreadlocks, blunts and bongs.”

For NFL players, legalizing marijuana makes sense, as it’s a better option than addictive opioids. Also, it’s not fair that players in states where marijuana is legal can be caught with it at a routine traffic stop, and not face disciplinary action form the NFL.

“Imagine a medicine that there side effect is euphoria, and people actually take not for anything, just for the side effect,” an unnamed man said to Ricky Williams in the documentary. “We’ve got to get rid of this insane prohibition based mindset that says that feeling euphoria is a bad thing. It’s not a bad thing. It’s okay if your medicine feels good.”

I agree, but marijuana consumption could decrease a person’s dopamine chemicals, or essentially their desire to be productive, according to Herb. However, the article does acknowledge there’s been conflicting reports pertaining to the claim.

“The best application of human ingenuity, and the human mind, is taking nature, and trying to understand how we can manipulate nature to make our lives better,” Williams said in the documentary. “And, marijuana is a plant, it’s nature.”

“Having the freedom to choose your medicine is important,” Turley said. “What we’ve experienced with these pharmaceuticals plays on our t.v everyday…cannabis resolves this brain issue. I know that personally. It’s happened to me. I don’t have these problems that I’ve had before.”

Like when the end of alcohol prohibition happened, I think the monetary gains from legalizing marijuana on the federal level will make the plant legal someday. If anything, legalize marijuana for the NFL players.

You can check out the full documentary here.

What Impact Does Social Media Have On Millennials?

The Culture

Staff

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June 21, 2017

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What Impact Does Social Media Have On Millennials?

A millennial, ages 18-34, according to the Pew Research Center, are notoriously known for their Instagram captions, or song lyrics in 2017. In fact, I began my millennial run posting Trey Songz’ lyrics on the initial social media website that helped define us millennials, Myspace.

At age 13, something about Myspace provided a home feel. Myspace allowed to section off your most important friends into a list of top friends. More importantly, the site allowed you to place your song favorite onto profile for people to hear when they viewed you. After searching the archive, my last song was Ludacris “Down In Tha Dirty” (Hey, it was just a phase. I listen to cool emo music now.)

Coincidentally, I felt the same vibe at the next defining website, Facebook. And eventually, I felt it on Twitter as well. Pertaining to Facebook, it was a more sophisticated Myspace to me, but Facebook just had more to offer: the wall feature, photo albums, statuses, and messaging (eventually live chat). But, Twitter was a different animal. I’ll explain in a minute.

To further define millennials’ character, other traits of millennials are that 84 percent support the legalization of marijuana, and 4 9 percent believe America’s best years are ahead of them, according to the Pew Research Center. Also, the center reported that millennials are detached from institutions.

However, it could’ve been my shyness that made it easy to write my words to strangers on Tim Berners-Lee’s World Wide Web. (Please, no one tell Al Gore.)

Like I said, Myspace was just for song lyrics. Facebook was more of the same, but I also ventured into the emo teen stage,: all black skinny jeans, vans, and sad music (I don’t think I’ve left it). I’d never say any of this stuff out loud, but on the internet, as a teenager, it was fair game. Also, I could manipulate lyrics, gearing them toward me, especially lesser known music one could confuse as my own words.

C’mon, if only a niche audience, I know I’m not alone here. Anyway, fast forward to Twitter, and beyond, and you’ll blatantly see how advanced technologies, but mostly social media networks, have impacted the millennial generation. For the record I’m not talking about the older millennial born in the 80’s, but the official, true millennial born in the 90’s.

And if you don’t see the impact, welcome to the internet, or the wild, wild west, my old college department chair said.

In 2017, Twitter has taken over as the most powerful social media network in the world, in my opinion, with approximately 325 million monthly active users, and was the largest source of news during the 2016 presidential election, according to The New York Times. What makes Twitter unique is their limit of 140 characters per Tweet, providing a text message feel.

In addition, Twitter’s initial interest came, because of the site’s ability to be accessed through mobile messaging. Essentially, users could text tweets from their phone onto the platform. Knowing that, the site didn’t want users receiving a tweet to get more than one message. With room to spare, the standard length of text messages is 160 characters, according to ADWEEK.

That said, the phones most millennials used to send their tweets, and now open the app, is a smartphone. In fact, the two, apps and smartphones, go hand in hand, as the app was designed to run on a mobile device.

While I can put into words the content of Twitter, and other advanced technologies, let’s examine photos, or videos, of the content (Don’t worry, not Instagram captions.)

All in all, the life of millennials goes hand and hand with social media.

What-Impact-Does-Social-Media-5gif-scaled

Here Are 5 Songs We Play 4 Years Later Continued

Hip Hop

Staff

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June 19, 2017

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Here Are 5 Songs We Play 4 Years Later Continued

Without further ado, the next song on the list is Skizzy Mars’ “All Say” off of his 2014 mix tape Pace.

Initially, I heard Mars by chance on Spotify Free listening to Super Duper Kyle. After awhile, Spotify will diverge from the artist, or playlist for those with Spotify Premium, and began to play similar artists. Well, Mars was perpetually the similar artist I was designated, more specifically his song “Like This”, and its hooking first verse. This was in the fall of 2015, my sophomore year in college.

“I got short comings, we got more coming,” Mars said. “What was in that shot ’cause I need more of it.”

So, I did what almost every millennial would do after constantly hearing a song they liked, search the artist on YouTube, and pray to the music Gods there was more good tunes coming (See What I did there?). Fortunately, there were, and while there’s a slew of songs I could’ve selected for Mars, “All Say” is the most relateable to me in a catalog of songs that feel like the soundtrack to the life of millennials, and their drugged, loving, sexy, heartbroken lives.

I like “All Say”, because it’s about a girl from Mars’ past that stood out from the rest, as she liked who he truly is, Myles Mills, and not Skizzy Mars.

“I guess you love Myles, not that Skizzy Mars sit,” Mars said in the first verse. “Now this indica got me so lethargic. Looking for a real girl on some Lars sit.”

Please, appreciate the “Lars and the Real Girl” movie reference. While he’s a rapper, Mars said he could hold conversations about Donald Trump or Bernie Sanders, or a conversation about industrialism or gentrification, not just rap. “All Say” hit home in the second verse, as I just to be involved with an ivy girl that attended the University of Pennsylvania.

“I don’t know, I could just tell we had a future, but she’s enrolled at an Ivy, and me I be acting stupid,” Mars said. “I be rappin’ bout money and drugs; and drugs and b*tches, but, I’ve been searching for something that’s different.”

If you like what you heard, other songs I like by Mars are the following: “Numb”, “Lucy”, “Chemistry”, and “No Curfew”.

Following behind “All Say”, another one of my top five favorite songs is Blackbear’s “wish u the best” off of his most recent album digital druglord.

Honestly, the first time I heard Blackbear I wasn’t a fan, as it wasn’t until last year in 2016 when I woke up from sleeping on him. As a fan of Super Duper Kyle, I was google searching to see if the “Happy Camper Tour” he was opening for Hoodie Allen on was coming to Philadelphia. I noticed Blackbear was on the tour as well, but didn’t think much of it until I heard the song “Champagne & Pools” with the three aforementioned names on it in promotion of the tour.

“Is it the house that I live or the things that I can give am I a fool, yeah,” Blackbear said in the hook. “For thinking I was different. Apart from all these Soho House guys that take you out. I wonder if you feel a thing.”

Ironically, I was playing Blackbear’s songs, anticipating him coming to Philadelphia with Kyle. Unfortunately, Blackbear left the tour before the Philadelphia stop, but that didn’t stop (Did you see what I did there?) me from rediscovering his music, and I’m glad I did.

I like “wish u the best”, because when the album was initially released the lyrics paralleled my life spot on, especially the opening lyrics.

“Just used my last one percent to text you, that s*it wasn’t worth it…,” Blackbear said in the first verse. “Funny how when I don’t care, these feelings all resurface.”

Looking back, we’ve all had a time where we regretted giving out our number, let alone texting someone first. Contrarily, you might’ve been the person someone regretted giving their number to, more so guys than girls. At the time of the song’s release, I was both, and gets weirder, as it was with the same person.

The chorus indicates Blackbear’s chaos with this female has ended with the bar “I would wish you the best but you already had it”.

Ultimately, the song’s right place, right time vibe to me was cemented in the outro.

“2016 was catastrophic, I deserved it,”Blackbear said.

For Blackbear, 2016 was filled with what appeared to be a toxic relationship, and a life threatening case of pancreatitis. For me, 2017 was filled with a major car accident, and acclimation to Western Pennsylvania after transferring out here for my remaining two years of undergrad.

“wish u the best” will resonate with me the rest of my life as one of those songs that reminds you know precisely what was going on in your life every time you hear it, good or bad.

If you like what you heard, other songs I like by Blackbear are the following: “Girls Like U”, “Flirt Right Back”, “make daddy proud”, and “Slide Thru”.