MM 2003 - Steelee Harper

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  The release of the highly anticipated new "Wicked" movie has significantly impacted social media platforms, with fans and critics engaging in extensive discourse about the adaptation of the iconic Broadway musical. From casting announcements to trailer releases and early reviews, the movie has generated both excitement and controversy, reflecting the evolving dynamics of fan culture and online media consumption. One of the earliest and most influential moments for the film on social media was the announcement of its cast, which includes Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda. Fans immediately took to platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok to express their reactions, with hashtags such as #WickedMovie and # Wicked casting trending for days. While many celebrated the casting choices, particularly Erivo’s acclaimed acting and vocal abilities, others debated whether Grande’s pop background suited the demanding role of Glinda. These discussions underscor...

 Magnolia, Arkansas, a charming city with a population of just over 11,000, is known for its Southern hospitality, vibrant community, and the annual Magnolia Blossom Festival. However, despite its many charms, Magnolia has limited options for coffee enthusiasts. Adding another coffee shop to the city would enrich the community's social and cultural fabric and contribute positively to the local economy. Coffee shops are more than just places to grab coffee , they are community hubs where people gather, connect, and collaborate. In Magnolia, where Southern culture values close-knit relationships, an additional coffee shop could be a vital space for fostering social connections. For college students from Southern Arkansas University, a new coffee shop would provide a much-needed alternative for studying, meeting with peers, or unwinding between classes. Local professionals could also benefit from having a relaxed yet functional environment to work or hold informal meetings. Addition...

 Kinley Shankles’ blog, MM 2003-Kinley Shankles , shares personal thoughts and academic topics from a Mass Communication major in Fordyce, Arkansas. The blog shows her interests and skills and I like the way you can see her personality in each of her topics.  The blog talks about many subjects, including public records, campus crime, and social media trends. This shows that Shankles can write about different topics, which is an important skill for a communication student. Posts like " Listening Posts " and "Trending on Social Media" are especially interesting because they are easy to relate to and talk about things happening now.      Kinley uses simple and clear language, which makes the blog easy for anyone to read. This style is great for a general audience, including classmates and teachers. Readers don’t need to know a lot about the subjects to understand what she is saying. The blog is well-organized, thanks to its use of Blogger. Posts are sorted by mont...

Spotify isn’t just for music and podcasts; it’s also a great way to stay updated on news. With the Spotify app, you can listen to news anytime, anywhere, using your iPhone . This is especially helpful if you’re busy and don’t have time to sit down and read the news.  To find news, go to the search bar at the bottom of the screen. Type in "news" or the name of a news channel you like, such as NPR, CNN, or BBC. Spotify will show you different options, like daily news updates or podcasts about current events. Pick one you’re interested in and press play. You can also follow your favorite news channels by clicking the "Follow" button. This way, new episodes will show up on your home screen. Spotify makes listening to news super simple. You can listen while doing other things, like walking to class, cooking, or exercising. Since it’s on your iPhone, you can take it anywhere. You don’t need to carry a newspaper or sit in front of a TV.The app also works offline. If you ...

The legal drinking age in the United States has been debated for many years. In 1984, the drinking age was raised to 21 to reduce drunk driving and save lives. However, some people think the drinking age should be lowered to 18.  In the U.S., people are considered adults when they turn 18 . They can vote, join the military, get married, and make important decisions about their lives. However, they are not allowed to buy or drink alcohol. This seems unfair to many. If 18-year-olds are trusted with big responsibilities, they should also be trusted to drink responsibly. Lowering the drinking age to 18 would make the law more consistent with other adult rights. When the drinking age is 21, some young people under that age drink in secret . This can lead to dangerous situations, like drinking too much or driving drunk. If the drinking age were 18, young people could drink in public places like restaurants or bars where drinking is supervised. These safer environments can help reduce th...

 In 2024, popular culture reflects a blend of nostalgia, technology, and social awareness, showcasing trends that resonate across generations. Nostalgia remains a significant force, with retro-inspired aesthetics and iconic franchises capturing attention. For example, collaborations like the Harry Potter-themed products by Miniso and limited-edition lifestyle goods celebrate beloved cultural icons, connecting fans to the past through immersive experiences. The year also highlights the growing influence of Technology in shaping cultural norms. Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the forefront, influencing everything from creative expression to everyday interactions. AI-generated content, such as hyper-personalized playlists on Spotify , reflects how technology tailors experiences to individual preferences. Similarly, platforms are exploring ways to use AI for more authentic storytelling and connection. Social consciousness remains a cornerstone of pop culture. Brands are increasin...

 The 2024 season of Dancing with the Stars brought an exciting mix of talent, heartwarming stories, and dramatic moments, culminating in Joey Graziade i and his partner Jenna Johnson taking home the coveted Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy. Joey, a former tennis coach and reality star, was the first Bachelor to win the competition. Despite having no prior dance experience, his dedication and growth on the show earned him the top spot in a season defined by personal transformation and artistry. The season finale showcased an impressive range of performances from the top five contestants. Ilona Maher and Alan Bersten delivered a high-energy freestyle routine that received widespread acclaim, placing them in second. Chandler Kinney and Brandon Armstrong paid tribute to Black dance pioneers in a performance that combined historical homage with vibrant creativity, earning them third place. Olympic gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik incorporated his athletic background into his routines, wh...

 In October 2024, the Israel-Hamas conflict escalated into one of the most intense clashes in the region's recent history, following a surprise multi-pronged attack by Hamas militants from Gaza. The assault led to devastating loss of life and prompted Israel to launch a comprehensive military campaign.  Hamas launched its offensive early in the month, utilizing rockets, drones, and ground incursions targeting Israeli civilian areas and military outposts. The scale and coordination of the attacks shocked the international community. The death toll rose rapidly, with both Israeli civilians and soldiers among the casualties. In retaliation, Israel declared war on Hamas, launching airstrikes across Gaza and imposing a siege, cutting off essential supplies like food, water, and electricity. The humanitarian impact has been catastrophic. Gaza, already under a blockade for years, has been pushed into a dire humanitarian crisis. Casualties on both sides have mounted, with the United...