The album dropped April 3, 2026, which is exactly 6 years from his last project, “It Is What It Is,” which dropped April 3, 2020. It consists of 15 songs and blends cosmic funk, jazz, R&B, and psychedelic pop, all while exploring themes of burnout, overstimulation, and emotional exhaustion. The R&B/Soul comeback features many artists such as Tame Impala, Lil Yachty, A$AP Rocky, the late Mac Miller, and more. Their appearances reflect the network Thundercat has built over the past few years, popping up on projects from Silk Sonic to Gorillaz. Songs like “No More Lies” with Tame Impala and “She Knows Too Much” with Mac Miller stand out as emotional highlights, mixing Thundercat’s signature basslines with some of his most personal writing. 

The perception of the album has been fair to both fans and critics. Rolling Stone praised the album’s “restrained and cohesive” feel, noting how Thundercat’s musicianship supports the storytelling instead of overshadowing it. Review sites followed suit, with Distracted earning an 81 on Metacritic and a 7.4/10 on AnyDecentMusic?, signaling a strong critical reception. Lyrically, the album leans into the pressures of 2026, constant notifications, emotional fatigue, and the feeling of being pulled in every direction. Tracks like “A.D.D. Through the Roof” and “Candlelight” explore that overstimulation, while “Anakin Learns His Fate” uses Star Wars imagery to frame heartbreak and self‑doubt.

With Distracted, Thundercat reminds listeners why he’s one of the most inventive artists working today. The album is playful, emotional, and a little chaotic, a perfect soundtrack for the moment we’re living in.

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Fritjofson debuted her idea on Instagram with her post “What’s in my Analog Bag.” The influencer described the bag as a way to keep you from scrolling and fill your life with more whimsical activities. She filled her strawberry tote with a book and/or a Kindle, Polaroid camera, a crochet project, stationary, and a planner.

Fritjofson even scored an interview with NPR stating, “It’s easy to get on the internet, get on social media and just kind of scroll mindlessly… I think [an analog bag] helps you slow down and embrace different things in your life that you wouldn’t do if you’re scrolling.”

This idea took the internet by storm, creating discourse on whether or not this was truly useful. 

Some commenters stated, “so… it’s a purse” while others were enamoured with the idea. Is this a good idea to unplug, or is it another trend to lead to more doomscrolling? While looking into analog bags, people continued to share what was in theirs online. However, is that now counter intuitive? By sharing more of what is in your analog bag online, will this lead to even more doomscrolling as users search for more ideas of what to put into their own tote.

I also believe that this leads to overconsumption. By trying to unplug, people tend to try new hobbies, leading to buying more objects to put in their bags. However, what happens when this trend dies, what happens when you no longer are posting the “what’s in my bag?” will people stay true to what the “analog bag” really means or continue to just keep scrolling.

People on the internet lie, posting the cute and most aesthetic things in their life for likes and followers, so with this analog bag trend, are they even staying true to what they are doing? Realistically, those who are truly doing this, would not be posting about it. I seem to agree with the “so…it’s a purse” comment. The idea that you need to have a name for the bag you use to ‘unplug’ is another way to circle back to social media. How do you unplug if you continually post about it? 

Would you participate in the analog bag trend? 

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“Coffee Talk” was developed by Toge Productions and published by the same company. It was first released on January 20, 2020 for PC, PS4, Nintendo Switch and Xbox one. On Oct.ober 31, 2023, a version for the PS5 was released. A sequel, “Coffee Talk 2: Hibiscus and Butterfly,” was released on April 20, 2023 for PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch and Xbox One. Toge Productions also plans to release Coffee Talk Tokyo on May 21, 2026. The new game will take place in Tokyo and include a new cast of characters, separating itself from the stories of “Coffee Talk” and “Coffee Talk 2.”

Players run a coffee shop in Seattle, but the shop is only open at night. Despite its unique marketing approach, the shop attracts several unique customers and many regulars. However, there are several races of customers — humans, elves, succubi, orcs and other fantasy races mingle with each other. These characters tell the barista their daily struggles with their families, jobs and other major life factors. During all this, the player makes warm drinks for the characters while they talk.

Players are not given recipes for the drinks upon starting the game, making each new drink a discovery that other customers can then order. Additionally, some customers will describe the type of drink they want either with the ingredients or defining qualities like bitter and warm. Even if the player makes the wrong drink, the story will progress as normal. This makes it easy for players to make their way through the entire story.

“Coffee Talk” is a 2D world with a mix of muted and bold colors. There is minimal shading to the characters themselves, making them stand out from the scenery. The game never leaves the coffee shop’s bar, with characters loading in and out as they go about their nights. Several cutscenes use increased color variation and shading. Emotionally heightened scenes will cut the screen into multiple canvases to make the scenario even more impactful for the players.

The storyline has about 4 or 5 hours of gameplay, but players are able to enter endless mode to keep making drinks for their favorite characters. There is also a challenge mode, unlocked upon entering endless mode. There are several in game achievements to be gained. It takes, on average, eight hours to unlock all the achievements.

For those looking for a story with love, struggle and family, Coffee Talk is a worthy eindeavor. The visual novel brings about the warmth and community of a small coffee shop in a big city. It has a knack for leaving players with a fuzzy feeling inside, plus the challenges of managing a coffee shop and all that comes with it.

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According to the White House, on March 26, President Trump signed an executive order in which it asked federal contractors and their respective subcontractors to eliminate all diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. According to the current administration, this type of action will be beneficial for multiple organizations, especially universities, since it will eliminate any “illegal” diversity initiatives that influence the acceptance process for incoming students.

“My Administration has made significant progress in ending racial discrimination in American society, including so-called “diversity, equity, and inclusion” (DEI) activities in which employees, applicants, or contracting parties are treated differently, separated, or singled out based on their race or ethnicity, rather than treated equally and objectively based on their merit and without regard to their immutable characteristics.  Despite this progress, some entities continue to engage in DEI activities and often attempt to conceal their efforts to do so.” States Trump via a White House statement in which it addressed DEI discrimination and federal contractors.

Parallel to this, federal agencies are actively launching investigations into university admissions, examining whether schools are indirectly considering race during the application process, despite the 2023 Supreme Court ruling banning affirmative action. The government has made it known that those who fail to comply with the new criteria are subject to loose federal funding.

 This type of action has gone beyond affecting admissions, the pressure has begun to affect campus life and academics. In states such as Florida, the government has begun to remove DEI offices, restrict diversity-related coursework or remove requirements tied to subjects like sociology, arguing such programs promote political ideology rather than education.

Those that support the new policies have argued that they are necessary to prevent discrimination and restore “neutrality” in education. Contrary to that, critics across the country state that this type of efforts could amount to political interference which could eventually undermine academic freedom, reduce support systems for minority students, and weaken research and teaching on social inequality.

One of the main arguments within the new policies is that higher education has become too ideologically one-sided. The administration has suggested that some diversity initiatives promote specific political viewpoints, and that reducing their influence would encourage a wider range of perspectives and debate amongst campuses across the country.

Currently, Lewis University has not been faced by the new policies. However, universities across the state of Illinois have begun to see the repercussions.

As universities continue to navigate the new conditions, Lewis carries on to protect its students’ heritage. Dr. Elizabeth Sartell, Assistant Professor and Chair of the Department of Theology at Lewis University states “I think Lewis does a good job of valuing students as whole people and supporting different aspects of their identities.” She goes on to say, “At the same time, everyone can do better—there are always ways to be more inclusive.”

As the country moves forward with the new executive orders, Lewis University maintains its position to protect students from  any type of discrimination, regardless of their heritage. 

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Continuous ambient sounds reverberated off darkened walls as students serenely floated on mattresses atop the Rec Center Pool. Hues of phosphorescent green and blue complimented the gentle clear water’s gentle ripples, making for quite the tranquil environment for meditation. Some chose to wear bathing suits, while others remained comfy in their everyday clothing. 

Each session of meditation out on the water lasted for roughly 20 minutes; to begin the process, students were situated with a mattress before being pushed out onto the water by a member of Lewis’ Men’s or Women’s Swimming. 

Following the initial release, students were then left to meditate by themselves under the careful supervision of several lifeguards for 15 minutes. At the 15 minute mark, members of the swim teams began dispersing in the pool at a laid-back pace to begin bringing students in without splashing. 

Afterward, students were free to participate in another cycle, engage in another activity at the Rec Center or exit as they so pleased. Unsurprisingly, the two trained massage professionals who offered their services at the event found themselves particularly busy. Many stressed students found the idea of releasing some of the built-up tension in their body from schoolwork and the looming prospect of tests rather appealing. 

Likewise, participants were also drawn to the essential oils craft laid out in the Rec Center hallway. Students filled up roller bottles with a mixture of coconut oil and their essential oil of choice, delighted with the wide selection of essential oils available–36 options, to be exact. In addition, multiple students got temporary Henna tattoos from the talented Henna artists on-site. 

Samanta Stevenson, Assistant Director of Student Recreation and Wellness, cited that her inspiration for the event was actually “a viral Tiktok.” Ultimately, it was the fact that a similarly constructed self-pampering event was taking place in the north suburbs motivated Stevenson to take action. Together, the exhaustive collaborative efforts across multiple campus departments successfully put Stevenson’s idea in motion, for which she expressed her utmost gratitude. 

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The new drama series follows Kayce Dutton (played by Luke Grimes), who enters a new role within the U.S. Marshals Service, opening the door to fresh stories, new characters, and a different rhythm than the sprawling family saga fans are used to. Before this new journey, Dutton was best known as the quiet, steady, and often conflicted son of John Dutton (played by Kevin Costner) on “Yellowstone.” He stood out as the character who constantly tried to balance two worlds: the relentless demands of his family’s Montana ranch and the life he built with his own family away from it. 

Still maintaining the rugged Montana backdrop and grounded tone that define the franchise, this new position of him as U.S. marshal will shape him into a new person. Instead of family disputes and land battles, he’s now dealing with high‑stakes cases, dangerous fugitives, and the moral weight that comes with federal authority. It’s a new environment that forces him to rely on the discipline and instincts he built long before joining the Marshals Service, while also challenging him to grow in ways he never had to before. 

Behind the scenes, the creative team blends familiar voices with fresh leadership. Spencer Hudnut steps in as showrunner, while Taylor Sheridan and John Linson, the architects of the Yellowstone universe, continue shaping the series as executive producers. The cast brings together returning faces like Gil Birmingham, Moses Brings Plenty, and Brecken Merrill. It also brings in newcomers such as Logan Marshall‑Green and Arielle Kebbel. 

Early numbers from the series premiere suggest the strategy is paying off. It drew in 9.52 million viewers, marking the biggest same‑day audience for a scripted broadcast series this season without a football lead‑in. That strong turnout shows the move to network TV may attract longtime fans while also reaching viewers who haven’t followed every “Yellowstone” chapter. Even so, Marshals is designed to stand on its own and offer case-driven episodes and storytelling. With its blend of Western grit, law‑enforcement drama, and familiar faces, the series positions itself as the next evolution of a universe that continues to grow.

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I feel as college students, especially Gen Z, we often coin terms to excuse behavior, such as “just a girl” to justify ditzy behavior or “I just work here” to justify not knowing the answer to a question at their job. While most of the time these are not phrases meant to be taken seriously, they are still phrases used to help excuse our own actions. However, I do not think spring break fever is the same.

There is scientific proof that the vitamin D from sunlight improves your mood. The lack of serotonin levels during the winter, while may not be the direct cause of seasonal depression, is a factor that has affected mood. Sunlight has been proven to boost serotonin levels, so with the shift of when the sun sets, and the warmer temperatures, the sun literally is a natural anti-depressant. 

With Daylight Savings Time occurring on March 8, I have personally experienced being in a better mood because of the weather and the sunlight and it switched in the snap of my fingers. I felt like I was having the worst day imaginable but then I went and sat outside in the sun and it actually made me feel better. While the time I took to decompress was a factor, soaking in the vitamin D also affected my mood.

The anticipation of an exciting spring break also is a factor in mood betterment. In Expedia’s 2023 Report, they found that 85% of global respondents agreed that already planned vacations made them feel more positive and optimistic about their future. Just the thought of going somewhere or even just taking the week break releases that dopamine hit. It gets people excited and anticipating what’s to come, living life happier rather than sort of dreading their present. 

These sudden outbursts of joy and excitement are not random, it is because of vitamin D and anticipation. While people may seem more restless and less focused in the weeks leading up to their spring break, is it necessarily a bad thing? Personally, I’d rather be restless and overjoyed than stressed over midterms. The anticipation of spring break has actually made me settle down more into midterms. Even though I am less focused (going on runs or going out for coffee instead of studying), the start of the break is what is motivating me to get through the week. Spring break fever is real, and there’s science to prove it. It’s not excusing behavior, but explaining it.

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One big example of protest throughout American history were slave songs as a form of resistance. The songs the slaves sang as they were working were not just sung to pass the time, but rather their road to freedom. They utilized their voices singing hymns and coded messages for the Underground Railroad. They often used spirituals for double meanings, both celebrating their religion but also as the steps to navigate escape routes. Songs such as “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” and “Wade in the Water” were used to help slaves figure out how to evade capture and be verbal maps to their freedom. Freedom is a form of power and their song was a protest against their oppressors. 

In modern day, you can see art as activism on more public scales. Even with the halftime shows recently, Kendrick Lamar’s performance was a commentary on the Black American experience, this year’s halftime embraced Puerto Riccan culture with Bad Bunny plastering his message of “The only thing more powerful than hate is love” on the stadium screens. In our current political climate, these were big forms of protest on a nationally televised scale. 

It also does not need to be as public as they were or within music. Artists are always creating media in different ways that are a form of protest. The artist Lex Marie has created several pieces of art that reflect on current issues going on in America. She had created a sculpture called “School Supplies” creating an automatic rifle from pencils as a response to the school shootings going on in America. Her piece went viral on TikTok and sparked conversations within the comments.

From the beginning of time, art has always been a form of expression, usually retaliation. The subliminal messages hidden within paint lines or poetry are what make art a conversation topic. Now in the 21st century, that has not changed. Let’s continue to create conversations about art, your voice is powerful, so use it.

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University officials stated that Lewis was “recently alerted that the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) is leasing office space within the building where we operate our Oak Brook location at 1111 W. 22nd Street, Oak Brook, Illinois, and that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is utilizing space for its administrative offices.” The university clarified that it “is one of several tenants in the property and does not have control over leasing decisions involving other occupants.”

The presence of ICE offices quickly gained attention online, prompting discussions among students and community members. Administrators acknowledged that “in light of social media attention referencing the potential for protests at the site, and the community’s concerns regarding ICE, we are taking precautionary steps to support a safe, productive, and welcoming learning environment for all.”

As an immediate measure, the university transitioned all in-person instruction scheduled between Feb. 16 and Feb. 21, 2026, to remote formats when possible. Courses requiring physical attendance, such as lab-based classes, were canceled during that period. Officials described the move as “one of several measures being implemented to ensure continuity of instruction while prioritizing the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff.”

A broader academic adjustment soon followed. In a campus-wide message, Provost Dr. Christopher Sindt thanked members of the university community for their cooperation, writing, “Thank you for your patience, understanding, and flexibility as we navigate the transition to an online modality for classes and activities at our Oak Brook location.” He acknowledged that “this situation has brought unexpected challenges for many,” adding that the university was “truly grateful for the resilience and cooperation shown across our community.”

Sindt emphasized that Lewis University’s guiding principles shaped the decision-making process. “As a Catholic and Lasallian university, our Mission calls us to foster a respectful, supportive, and inclusive environment where every individual is valued and treated with dignity,” the message stated. “This commitment guides our decision making, particularly when circumstances arise that may cause concern or disruption for members of our community.”

For Session I of the Spring 2026 semester, which runs from January 20 through March 14, the university announced specific scheduling changes. “All in-person activities scheduled at Oak Brook during Session I of the Spring Semester … will be transitioned,” the provost wrote. College of Business courses were moved “fully online,” while the Radiography and Nursing programs adopted “a combination of online and in-person classes at alternative locations.” 

University officials underscored that students enrolled in affected courses would receive individualized guidance. “Students enrolled in affected courses will receive direct communication from their colleges and faculty with specific details,” the message explained. Administrators also sought to address potential concerns among international students, noting that “international students will receive separate communication that this transition will not impact the good standing of their student visas.”

Throughout both communications, Lewis University repeatedly framed the decision as a precautionary response rather than a reaction to any direct threat. “Our priority is to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment,” Sindt wrote, adding that the university “continues to work with partners to determine solutions for courses scheduled beyond Session I.”

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This came as no surprise to junior nursing major Nazh Macalandong, Cultural Chair of the AAA. “These events are usually pretty well attended. I’d say on average, we get at least 15 people per event, especially catered events,” he remarked eagerly. Ultimately, the event’s popularity brought him great satisfaction because it allowed him to share his “love of Asian culture.” 

The festivities weren’t just limited to the tasty cuisine; students across the classroom indulged in the art of painting paper lanterns as they munched on bites of Bonchon food. Students were able to choose from two different sizes of lanterns and many different colors of acrylic paint, which allowed for practically endless creative possibilities. Some took to inscribing positive affirmations on their lanterns, while others filled theirs with flourishing flowers evocative of spring. 

Each event attendee also received a vibrant red pouch complete with golden Chinese lettering and blossom artwork. Inside of each pouch resided several small Chinese hard candies for students to consume in wake of the Lunar New Year. 

Ultimately, many found the event to be an enjoyable celebration of Asian culture as well as the Lunar New Year. Those interested in further AAA endeavors should be sure to stop by the AAA Matcha Sale on Feb. 25 in the main Academic Science Building hallway, where Macalandong said he will be “dressing up very performatively” for potential drink buyers. 

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Tiny Bookshop was first released on August 7, 2025 for PC, Mac, and Nintendo Switch. A physical version of the game is set to release on April 10, 2026 for the Nintendo Switch and will also bring the game to the PS5 console. Developers at Neoludic Games created a cozy game where players interact with regular customers, getting to know them as time passes by completing quests. Of course, this is managed with managing stock, profits and the other technical ends of having a business.

There are several events that happen over the span of a year, a specific one being the end of summer bonfire. These events lean into the 2D art style of the game, an informal sketch style with color. Each event brings players a bit more of the characters’s backstories while also allowing them to participate in the yearly traditions of the Bookstonians, the self declared name of the citizens of Bookstonbury.

Players unlock more characters and locations throughout the game. The elements are paced, eliminating the sense of urgency and truly letting the player relax during the game. There are eight total locations, each one having its own sell rates and genre popularities. Depending on the location, players are made to switch out decorations for sales boosts and change their stock based on previous statistics from the location. All the data is kept in the player’s journal, where they can also access other useful information like character birthdays and town events.

The books in the bookshop are real books, each with a short summary. Fan favorites like “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson and classics like George Orwell’s “Animal Farm” make an appearance in the game. Players are able to recommend books to customers, considering factors like genre, length, and plot points to meet each request. A happy customer will encourage others to buy from your shop and continue to look for more books.

Overall, Tiny Bookshop is a cute game that combines managerial skills with the cozy nature of a coastal town. Players get more intrigued as they meet various characters who all come to the bookshop, some to figure out personal issues while others are just bookworms looking for their next read. With its usage of real book titles and summaries, Tiny Bookshop is a great game for readers who want to dive into something new.

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In the original Power series, Tommy Egan, played by Joseph Sikora, built his name on the streets of New York as a fiercely loyal, unpredictable force who always chased power on his own terms. His world revolved around high-stakes moves, complicated alliances, and a nonstop drive to stay on top. But as everything around him began to shift and the ties anchoring him to New York started to break, Tommy realized it was time for a new chapter. 

Set in the same universe as the six-season run of Power (2014–2020), Power Book IV: Force picks up after Egan leaves behind the last pieces of his old life in New York City and steps toward a long-overdue fresh start, one that ultimately leads him to Chicago. 

Egan enters Chicago not just as an outsider but as a force ready to reshape the city’s criminal landscape. In the city, Tommy goes head-to-head with rival crews, unpredictable allies, and the city’s deeply rooted underworld. This proved to Egan that the city is filled with new opportunities, but they come at a price. 

Season 3 brings an added emphasis on strategy and survival. Additions of new players entering the picture, each one testing Tommy’s ability to stay steps ahead. Friendships, alliances, and even blood ties appear to stand on shaky ground.

But at its core, the new season focuses on Tommy’s relentless pursuit of power. Chicago demands dominance, and Tommy’s fight to build something of his own puts him at the center of a storm that’s growing by the day. He also may find himself at a crossroads, torn between the empire he wants and the people he can’t afford to lose. As the new season continues, bigger conflicts, tougher decisions, and sacrifices will be put to the test for Egan.

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“In August, Trinity’s long-awaited dream of attending college became reality when she enrolled at Lewis University in Romeoville, Illinois. She was warmly welcomed by the English department faculty and fellow students. She quickly formed meaningful relationships, including a special bond with her roommate, Sophia Grace Galvin,” said JoAnn Wooley-Dowdy, secretary of True Church House of Prayer, at Trinity’s funeral service. 

Trinity expressed a desire to one day pursue a career as an English teacher by studying English and Education at Lewis. English had always been a passion of hers, and she was excited to finally have the opportunity to explore the fascinating subject in higher education. 

Dr. Mardy Philippian, Professor of English Studies, met Trinity in August through his first-year student workshop for new English majors. As Dr. Philippian recounted, “She was already an effective writer with a strong voice, and in the four short papers she completed had much to say about how ‘empathy is oddly becoming scarce in times such as these,’ and that learning to be ‘gentle with others even in impossible situations and gaining the courage to be vocal about what you want’ is the beginning of empathy.”  

Philippian further noted that Trinity “wrote compellingly about her reasons for pursuing a degree in English. She was unusually clear that, as she wrote, ‘from the moment’ she ‘picked up a pencil and paper, something special was already happening’ to her.” 

“I feel the loss of who she was as a young writer and of the class discussions we will now never have,” Phillipian continued sorrowfully. “In one of her last sentences in my class, she wrote that her love of studying literature and writing ‘is who I am, what I do, and who I want to be and what my academic journey will hopefully look like.’”

In addition to English, Trinity loved pastel colors, Hello Kitty, and a variety of magical shows and video games. She enjoyed engaging in spirited conversations with others about her interests, often sprinkling her own thoughtful commentary into the mix.

While Trinity’s time at Lewis was tragically cut short, President David Livingston stated that “her family shared that she loved her experience here.” Trinity possessed an admirable sense of optimism that allowed her to make light of her own life and uplift others, a quality that is missed immensely by her peers and professors. Her bubbly personality and infectious smile are surely never to be forgotten by those who knew her. 

Trinity’s services were held Saturday, October 11, at True Church House of Prayer, 6710 S. May Street in Chicago. A viewing took place at 10:00 a.m., and a service followed shortly afterward at 11:00 a.m.

Loved ones gathered to honor the kind-heartedness, intelligence and enthusiasm that shaped her to be a gem of a person. 

It is unmistakable that Lewis’ community has been left grieving in the wake of Trinity’s loss to her battle with cancer. Ultimately, her presence on campus has been sorely missed over the course of these past few months by both students and staff who had the fortune of meeting her. 

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Mlynarski cited the inspiration behind the Periodic Table of Pumpkins was to provide “a photo opportunity for the participants,” and “bring some science into the Halloween holiday.” Science students, math club members, and the entire Women’s and Men’s volleyball teams alike banded together to make the artistry of the table possible. In total, all 118 elements from the periodic table were engraved onto pumpkins, covering every single one from Actinium to Zircronium. 

The pristine display rested behind the Academic Science Center for the duration of the Haunted House event and beyond. Students admired the spooky decor, appreciating its festiveness and craftsmanship until it was eventually taken down on October 29. 

As for the Haunted House event, Mlynarski voiced that there were an “additional approximately 50 student volunteers to help with the Haunted House event itself.” In the six years of the event’s occurrence, this year “had the most collaborations throughout the university” Mlynarski had seen. The departments of Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Nursing, Communications, and Athletics all participated, as well as the Flyer Fanatics, the Latinos in Medicine, and the Business department, which was represented through the Women in Business Club. All in all, the ample participation from students across the board led to the ultimate success of the Periodic Table of Pumpkins and Haunted House event. 

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Past La Nina patterns have brought above-average amounts of snowfall to the Chicago area. Although the current patterns appear they will remain weak, it is predicted to bring heavy snow all the way up until February. 

Maps of La Nina show a polar jet stream moving through a high pressure system above Alaska that brings cool temperatures and precipitation towards the northern half of the US. Depending on the severity of La Nina conditions, snowfall can lead to continuous and severe weather conditions throughout the winter season. 

Opposite of La Nina is patterns of above-average equatorial pacific patterns called El Nino, which flips the US winter weather, pushing cool, wet winters down south and bringing warmer temperatures and dryness to the north. 

La Nina patterns have been suspected to be able to offset the effects of global warming due to its influx in cooler temperatures. In reality, La Nina is just part of the oscillation between warmer and cooler temperature averages in equatorial pacific patterns. Despite the cooling effects of La Nina, according to NOAA, the average global temperature has continued to rise. 

Junior Business Administration Major, Elaina Veome, looks forward to the snowier predictions for Chicago’s winter this year. “If it’s cold outside, I prefer there to be snow on the ground,” says Veome. “I’m excited for there to be a lot of snow on the ground, if I could rate it one to ten, it would be eleven!” 

Despite treacherous conditions, heavy snowfall is known to be to Chicago’s already extreme winter-weather conditions, the increase in precipitation means more opportunities for snowy activities. 

Lake Michigan already provides a general cooling among most of northeastern Illinois, according to the Illinois State University Climatologist. Something called “lake-effect snows” causes higher precipitation for Chicago during the winter months. Now, due to the strong trade winds produced by La Nina, cold jet streams are pushed northward, leaving the southern US in a drought, while boosting rain and snowfall up north. 

Other effects of La Nina climate patterns are more nutrient rich, cold waters along the west coast, which attracts more cold-water species like salmon and squid. It can also lead to a more severe hurricane season, despite this year’s tropical storms being relatively tame.  

That being said, this year’s La Nina patterns are predicted to stay relatively weak, reducing the risk of Chicago experiencing extreme weather conditions like it’s seen in the past. Nevertheless, it is important to look out for this coming winter and be prepared for even harsher, snowier conditions. 

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“Phineas and Ferb” follows two step brothers, Phineas and Ferb. They are on summer break and build all of these impossible things like roller coasters over the entire town and a full rodeo in their backyard. They have friends who help them and an older sister named Candace, who obsesses over busting them despite their creations always disappearing before their mother gets home. Meanwhile, their pet platypus named Perry is a secret agent and is assigned to calming the evil plans of Dr. Doofenshmirtz, who wants to overtake the tristate area.

The episodes have two stories, resulting in two ten minute stories to make up the full twenty minutes. Each story has its own song, written by Danny Jacob and a rotating team of other composers. The songs took on a comedic sense, with some episodes having multiple songs. There are over 300 total songs in the series, not including the new season.

Season five starts the next summer. The creators, Dan Povenmire and Jeff “Swampy” Marsh, wanted to continue the story like it had previously. The first ten episodes of season five were released on Disney+ on June 6, 2025. This isn’t the end of the season, though, as the rest of the season has been continuously released on Disney channel with the same schedule as the first four seasons. 

Fans have been super excited about the new season. There was a world premiere event on May 31, 2025, where actors and bands from the show performed live. Additionally, there were meet and greets along with show themed games. It took place in Hollywood and created additional excitement for the release. Those who attended saw a special premiere of the first episode of season five.

Season five of “Phineas and Ferb” brings back the same energy that the original four seasons had. All of the original voice actors came back to the show, making it a reunion for them. The animation style hasn’t changed. Povenmire and Marsh claimed they wanted to continue the show, not make a spin off. The consistency between seasons four and five is impressive for the ten year time difference. Season one first aired in August 2007, and season four finished up in June 2015. Despite this, the time difference is only discernable in the minor changes in the sound and animation quality of the show. The story line is fluent, speaking to the talent of the entire team working on “Phineas and Ferb.”

Long time fans of the show have been looking forward to season five since it was first announced in January 2023. The lovable characters brought this project to life, still being the lighthearted and witty people that fans love. Overall, long-time fans seeking nostalgia and new fans who are just finding the world of “Phineas and Ferb” were extremely happy with its new season.

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This funding is part of a statewide initiative to offer the growing shortage of certified addiction counselors in Illinois amid a continuing rise of overdose deaths. The CADC Workforce Expansion Grant, first launched in July 2023, aims to expand the behavioral health workforce by covering education, certification, and professional development costs for future addiction counselors.

“This grant allows us to break down barriers for students pursuing addiction counseling,” said Dr. Duris, who serves as Director of Training for Lewis University’s Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (CMHC) program and the Advanced Training Program in Addictions (ATP). “By supporting their education and training, we’re strengthening both our students’ futures and the future of community mental health in Illinois.”

The $278,000 in Phase 2 funding, which began in August 2025 and runs through June 2026, will provide students in Lewis University’s Advanced Training Program in Addictions (ATP) with comprehensive financial assistance and career support.

Through this grant, students can receive tuition reimbursement for up to eight approved ATP courses, easing the financial burden of completing their academic requirements. In addition, each student will be awarded a $7,500 internship stipend, helping to offset the costs of gaining supervised clinical experience in the field. To further support accessibility, the grant also covers mileage reimbursement for travel to and from classes and field placement sites, ensuring that transportation does not become a barrier to participation.

Recognizing the diverse needs of graduate students, the program also provides childcare and eldercare reimbursement for those balancing family responsibilities while attending classes. Each student will receive a new laptop, valued at $700, which they may keep after completing the program, allowing them to stay connected and engaged throughout their studies.

Beyond financial aid, the grant includes career development resources to help students transition successfully into the workforce. As they near graduation, students will receive job placement assistance and a study guide to prepare for the Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor (CADC) examination. Students must commit to pursuing a CADC credential and agree to work for at least two years in a SUPR-licensed substance use treatment program after graduation.

The Phase 1 portion of the grant, which remains active, provides funding for current CADC professionals seeking recertification or initial certification fee support. Both phases operate simultaneously and are funded annually based on the availability of state grant resources.

Dr. Duris originally wrote the grant in Fall 2024, earning an initial $170,000 award in December 2024. Her revised proposal for Fiscal Year 2026 expanded the number of eligible ATP courses and successfully secured the larger $278,000 award.

“This program is not just about funding—it’s about creating opportunities,” Duris said. “It ensures that our graduates are ready to meet the increasing need for compassionate, well-trained addiction counselors throughout Illinois.”

As part of the grant, Lewis University students will also have the opportunity to apply for conference scholarships—valued up to $1,150—to attend the Illinois Certification Board’s Fall or Spring Member Conferences for professional networking and continued learning.

Through the CMHC and ATP programs, Lewis University continues to prepare the next generation of ethical and skilled counselors equipped to address the pressing challenges of substance use and mental health in their communities.

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After students received their orders in styrofoam containers, they could pump out ‘Memphis Sweet BBQ Sauce’ or ‘Kansas City BBQ Sauce’ from large containers atop a surface in the student center. They could also opt for the ‘Black Cherry Chipotle BBQ’ wing sauce and dip that adjoined the other appetizing options. Students then were invited to take seats at the tables clothed in gingham tablecloths residing in the lobby, and finally dug into their food. 

“The mac and cheese was actually really good,” Jo Jarmuz, junior math and physics major, noted. “I’m not going to say no to free food.” The overall consensus reached among students seemed to be that the food was satisfactory, especially considering that it was free. 

Students did, however, express interest in more food truck options in the future, similar to what was provided during the Welcome Week festivities. “It would be nice to have drinks,” voiced Mariana Caballero, exchange sophomore information and technology major.

A similarly structured event occurred last month, amassing a large sum of students with the promise of free food. Many students devoured their fair shares of salty and buttery goodness while sipping on the refreshing lemonade the Auntie Ann’s Pretzel truck had to offer. Residents and commuter students alike should be sure to keep their eyes peeled for flyers around campus promoting future free food truck pop-ups at the Student Center; they definitely do not want to miss out.   

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Young Thug, a prominent Atlanta rapper and one of the most influential artists of his generation, recently dropped his new album “UY Scuti.” The project marks a pivotal moment in his career, with many seeing it as proof that he’s either “back in the game” or that “he fell off.” The release of “UY Scuti” serves as Young Thug’s comeback, a powerful response to his struggles and the RICO case that almost ended his career.

On May 9, 2022, Young Thug and his crew were indicted on RICO charges. Prosecutors claimed that his music collective YSL (Young Slime Life) operated as a criminal gang involved in violent crimes, drug dealing, and illegal firearm activity. Three years later, on October 31, 2024, Young Thug regained his freedom after accepting a plea deal in his RICO case. Following his release, he quickly returned to music, reuniting with Metro Boomin, appearing on Lil Baby’s track, and later dropping his comeback single, “Money on Money,” with Future. In June 2025, he performed publicly for the first time since his arrest, headlining the Summer Smash festival.

With the release of the album, it has received criticism from both critics and fans. Critics remain divided on “UY Scuti.” Some, like those at NME, see the album as uneven and weighed down by too many tracks and controversial imagery, which they say distracts from its emotional message. Yet others hear real depth in songs like “Sad Spider,” “Catch Me I’m Falling,” and “Miss My Dogs,” where Thug opens up about pain, loss, and survival.

The divide among fans runs deep, but their emotions outweigh their judgments. Some believe “UY Scuti” doesn’t capture the same spark as “Slime Season” or “Barter 6,” past albums from Thug that are highly rated by fans. Others, however, see it as a deeply personal project, a glimpse into Thug’s humanity and the mind of an artist still healing and reflecting on all he’s been through. Even with its flaws, “UY Scuti” feels less like a comeback and more like a confession, a reminder that behind the fame and controversy, Young Thug is still evolving, still human, and still reaching for something real.

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“Cult of the Lamb” starts off with the player’s death, a sacrificial one to the Old Faith which is followed by most of the world. However, they are saved by “The One Who Waits” and are given the power of the red crown. Players are dropped off at their new base, where they begin to grow their new cult — the bargain they made for their life.

The lamb must defeat the four lords who imprisoned him. Along the way, they collect supplies to sustain and grow their cult and can adventure to different parts of the world. The lamb must cook food for their followers, prevent infection and disease, and provide graves for when their followers pass alongside other duties.

“Cult of the Lamb” uses 2D graphics. The animation style is cute but also morbid. The game uses red overtones to emphasize the killing and bloodshed caused by this cult. The graphics move smoothly across the screen, allowing players to move easily.

The game is accessible through multiple platforms. As of August 11, 2022, the game has been on the Nintendo Switch, Playstation 4 and 5 consoles, Xbox Series One and XS consoles and PC. There have also been multiple updates to add content. October 24, 2022 saw the Blood Moon Festival update, which was followed by the Relics of the Old Faith update on April 24, 2023. Sins of the Flesh was released on January 16, 2024 and was followed by the most recent update of the Unholy Alliance on August 12, 2024. Additionally, the developers made a package with another one of their games, “Don’t Starve”, on August 21, 2023. There is a DLC in the works to be released in 2026 titled Woolhaven.

Massive Monster developed “Cult of the Lamb”, and it was published by Developer Digital. It took nearly nine months to decide on the concept and three years after to develop the game for its original release. As of April 2025, the game has drawn in just under $90 million USD. Fans have been happy with the performance of the game and many are intrigued by the plot throughout the gameplay.

“Cult of the Lamb” is one of the games that is sure to become a classic over time, given its current popularity and overall success. The plot, animation and cute but creepy style of the game highlight Massive Monster’s skills in developing gameplay. If gamers are looking for a new world to be obsessed with that has cozy aspects with the brutal realities of death and battle, then “Cult of the Lamb” will bridge those desires perfectly.

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