Brad Kern

  The portrayal of superheroes in comic books has, over decades, mirrored the shifting sands of cultural values, societal norms, and political contexts. The evolution from the early 20th century’s simplistic narratives to the complex, multidimensional characters of today illuminates a broader societal dialogue. The early era of superheroes, notably during the 1930s and 1940s, saw the emergence of iconic characters such as Superman and Batman. Their inception came at a time when America was grappling with the Great Depression and the ominous rise of totalitarian regimes in Europe. The straightforward battle between good and evil as portrayed in these comics provided a semblance of moral clarity in uncertain times. As the world plunged into the chaos of World War II, superheroes became symbols of hope and the embodiment of American ideals. Characters like Captain America, created during this era, were seen as patriotic icons fighting against the forces of tyranny. However, as the dust of

  The pantheon of college football has historically assigned revered titles to universities excelling in specific positions. However, in the ever-evolving realm of college football, some schools etch their dominance in new and resounding ways. Today, the conversation around wide receiver excellence is dominated by one institution: Ohio State. 1. A Legacy of Outstanding Talent Ohio State’s illustrious past is punctuated with wide receivers who have dazzled both on the collegiate stage and in the NFL. Think of players like Michael Thomas, who has been a revelation for the New Orleans Saints, or Terry McLaurin, a cornerstone for the Washington Football Team. Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson and both of their immediate impacts on the Saints and Jets respectively. Moreover, the likes of Devin Smith, Parris Campbell, K.J. Hill, and Curtis Samuel don’t merely represent a list of alumni; they symbolize a tradition. Their achievements have laid a robust foundation, signaling to future prospects t

  For years, the Ohio State football program has been synonymous with excellence, both on and off the field. Yet, behind the curtain of wins, losses, and impressive statistics lies an invaluable ethos that binds players and coaches alike: The Buckeye Brotherhood. This brotherhood is not just a catchphrase; it’s a genuine manifestation of the mentorship culture that permeates the Ohio State team. The Foundation of Brotherhood One could trace the roots of this brotherhood from the alumni magazine's account, which paints a picture of players and coaches who genuinely care for one another, forging connections that extend beyond the four years of college. Stories of senior players taking underclassmen under their wings, and coaches investing time and effort into players' personal growth, are not rare but are rather the norm. Expressions of Solidarity A vivid portrayal of this deep bond was evident in a post from the team's official Instagram handle. The picture showcased a momen

  NYC Comic Con Comic conventions, known as Comic Cons, have become cultural phenomena across the globe. In the United States, they have evolved from small gatherings of comic book aficionados to massive events attended by hundreds of thousands, celebrating not just comics, but all facets of pop culture. Here’s a brief look at the history and evolution of Comic Cons in the U.S. Origins: The 1960s and 70s The seeds for Comic Cons were sown in the 1960s. The first official “comic book convention” is believed to have taken place in 1964 in New York, called the “Tri-State Con”. It was an intimate gathering, unlike the colossal events of today, focused purely on comic books. However, the most recognized early convention is the San Diego’s Golden State Comic-Minicon of 1970. Organized by a group of comics fans, it was initially a one-day event drawing around 100 attendees. The success of this event led to the first full-fledged San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) later that year, attracting over 300

photo credit :  The Lantern In the realm of collegiate sports, especially football, it’s not just the players and the plays that make the game exciting; it’s the spirit of the fans that truly electrify the environment. And when it comes to the magnitude of fandom, few can contest the dominance of the Ohio State Buckeyes. According to various sources, this college football team has carved a niche for itself by boasting the most expansive fan base among all college football programs 1 . But what gives the Ohio State football team such an advantage? Let’s delve into the reasons. 1. Historical Significance and Tradition  The Ohio State football team, officially known as the Buckeyes, has a storied history dating back to 1890. Over the decades, the team has amassed numerous titles and honors. Such a rich tradition creates a generational fan base. Parents, grandparents, and even great-grandparents have passed down their passion for the Buckeyes from one generation to the next 2 . This histor

  In a world saturated with digital distractions and quick-fix entertainment options, the timeless allure of comic books remains remarkably steadfast. However, as any caped crusader will tell you, even superheroes face challenges, and so does the comic book industry. Yet, despite the hurdles, the importance of passing this storytelling medium to the next generation can hardly be overstated. The Many Challenges: A Saga of Struggle Digitalization Comic Book stores were once magical realms where fans could congregate, debate, and discover new universes on the pages of comic books. However, with the rise of digital platforms, the allure of these once-cherished physical spaces is dwindling. Digital comics offer convenience, and in an era of immediate gratification, this often wins over the tactile pleasure of flipping through a paper comic. Piracy Piracy is the arch-nemesis of many creative industries, and comic books are no exception. Unlawful digital distribution platforms make it increas