Invincible is an adult animated superhero series centering on 17-year-old Mark Grayson, who inherits powers from his father, Omni-Man, the planet’s most powerful superhero. As the show progresses, it follows the story of Mark Grayson, aka Invincible, developing his powers and understanding that despite the legacy his father had left, Invincible must become the Earth’s next great defender.

After the show was originally released back in 2021, the show received a 98% on Rotten Tomatoes, creating a high standard from the start. Since then, the show has maintained a steady and consistent rating of 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, making this fourth season the third season in a row to achieve a perfect score. Coming back following its season three finale, garnering the highest-rated season finale, scoring a 9.9/10 IMDb rating, and joining shows such as Game of Thrones and Succession, the show’s three-episode drop ranked number one on the top ten shows on Amazon Prime that week.

Following the new season’s release, fans have praised the season for its darker tone, higher stakes, and showing how each and every character has a crucial role within the show, especially Mark, as he faces increasingly complex moral decisions that will eventually dictate the reputation of the hero. The show has remained consistent with having explosive character development and a strong musical soundtrack, as well as not being afraid to create highly intense and emotionally graphic scenes.

One of the biggest changes to the show that fans took quick notice of was the higher-quality animation the show created in the following season. Fans of the show have debated back and forth since the show’s original release that the quality of the animation was deemed poor and needed to be enhanced, yet this season has broken that critique. As this season progresses, fans are eager to get their hands on consistent, higher-quality animation.

With the continuing success of Invincible, Amazon Prime has already greenlit the next season, which is slated to be released between February and April of 2027. This early renewal highlights the platform’s confidence in the series and its growing fanbase.

The first four episodes of Invincible season four are now streaming exclusively on Prime Video, with the following episodes set to be released every Wednesday until April 22nd.

Season Four Invincible Schedule

• Episodes 1-3: March 18 (Now streaming)

• Episode 4: March 25 (Now streaming)

• Episode 5: April 1

• Episode 6: April 8

• Episode 7: April 15

• Episode 8: April 22

Bad Bunny’s 2026 Super Bowl LX halftime show made history by becoming the first halftime show to be performed in Spanish while also bringing in 128 million viewers. Not only did Bad Bunny make history with his performance, but he also included various odes to Latin Culture and Puerto Rico.

The show started with a man playing the guitar while wearing a pava in front of a sugarcane field, who says, “Qué rico es ser Latino,” which translates to: “How wonderful it is to be Latino.” The man with a pava hat opening up the show represented the jíbaro, which is a traditional Puerto Rican rural farmer or agricultural worker.

Throughout the show’s set design, various street vendors and stands were featured representing Latin foods such as Piraguas (Puerto Rican shaved ice) as well as iconic street vendors and small businesses, including Los Angeles-based Villa’s Tacosand Brooklyn’s Toñita’s (Caribbean Social Club).

Additionally, several nods to common experiences in Latin culture were highlighted. For example, Bad Bunny waking up a small child who was sleeping on a set of chairs during the wedding reception was a nod to a universally relatable image from any Latin family gathering that goes late into the night. The people featured playing dominoes represented a social game that brings Puerto Rican communities together.

Although the halftime show had many references to Latin Culture, Bad Bunny used the big stage to share several messages for the viewers across the globe to take in.

During his performance of his song “Monaco” he shares in Spanish: “Mi nombre es Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, y si hoy estoy aquí en el Super Bowl 60, es porque nunca, nunca dejé de creer en mí. Tú también deberías de creer en ti. Vales más de lo que piensas. Confía en mí.”

This translates to “My name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, and if I’m here today at Super Bowl 60, it’s because I never, ever stopped believing in myself. You should also believe in yourself. You’re worth more than you think. Trust me.”

The competition was set and started on Saturday afternoon. The dance portion was second, as nine teams were competing. Bethel’s dance team was coming out of a fifth-place finish at the Coyote Classic earlier this season.

“Our strive and dedication to improve as a team is what’s helping us to keep getting better! We put in the work, and we all just really want to be better.” Said Mateya McCord from Newton, “I also feel like everyone on the team is getting closer, and when there’s a real connection with teammates, you will ultimately perform better.”

The scoring for dance is based on 11 different categories that must be completed. Bethel would be the second dance team to perform in the afternoon. The dancers would perform their routine once, in the afternoon. The dance team would end round one with a score of 79.41 and would help them place fifth.

“The difference this year is we are becoming more confident as a team, the skill level of the team as a whole has also increased, and they are all improving on skills and the small details it takes to stay competitive.” Said head coach Kiley McCord, “We also were able to add a few more skills in our performance from the first comp to the second and will continue to get those even more precise.”

In round two of the dance side of the competition, seven teams were competing. Bethel would be looking to build on their earlier performance. The dancers would perform their routine once again and would hope for it to be good enough to improve their score. The dance team would end the day with a score of 80.20, which would help them place third.

“Going through those tough times made me appreciate dance even more. The best part is my relationships I’ve built and the growth I’ve experienced, not just as an athlete but as the person I’m becoming. Dance gave me my family and taught me to be resilient.” Said senior Daysharia Wilkes from St. Louis, Mo., reflecting on a four-year dance career at Bethel.

For those who might not understand the correlation of the show and music as a whole, “Stranger Things” utilizes various songs from the 1980s to emphasize some of the most crucial scenes throughout the show’s history.

yMusic is incredibly vital for the show. The WSQK Collection vinyl packaging created by the Duffer Brothers shares that “Music is not just a backdrop, it’s an intrinsic part of the series, both in Hawkins (the prominent fictional town in the series) and for the audience watching at home.”

As stated previously, music is not just a backdrop; it’s integral to the show. One notable song tied to some of the biggest scenes in the show’s history is “Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God) by Kate Bush. This song has been prevalent throughout seasons four and five, emphasizing some of the events that take place surrounding the character Max Mayfield.

After the series finale of the show aired on Dec. 31, 2025, Spotify took to Instagram to share how the show helped skyrocket specific songs featured in the show’s final episode. Prince’s “Purple Rain” stream rate increased by 608% globally on Spotify in the week following Dec. 31, alongside the stream rate of his overall category, which increased by 190% globally on Spotify in that week as well.

Not only did Prince see an increase in streaming rates, “Sweet Jane” by Cowboy Junkies saw a 264% increase globally on Spotify in the week following Dec. 31.

Other songs that saw a large increase in Spotify global streaming rates following the show’s conclusion included “Heroes” by David Bowie, “Here Comes Your Man” by Pixies, and “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac.

With these figures in mind, it is hard to ignore how crucial music is within the show’s runtime. Although the show has concluded, the musical aspect of “Stranger Things” will remain prevalent for the foreseeable future.

One of the most common difficulties students identified is securing housing during academic breaks, particularly for those unable to return to their home countries. Access to basic necessities can also be challenging, as most international students do not have personal transportation. Visa restrictions typically limit students to on-campus employment for a small number of hours each week, making it difficult to cover additional expenses such as food during breaks. The beginning of the academic year can be especially challenging, as students often arrive without bedding and have limited access to transportation to purchase essential items.

Several students said they were unaware of Bethel’s host family program, while others reported long wait times or the need to arrange housing independently. When available, the program can provide meaningful support, especially during extended breaks. Christmas break was frequently mentioned as a difficult period, as students who remain on campus may experience isolation while arranging accommodations on their own.

Visa requirements were also cited as a significant source of stress. Some students reported difficulties reentering the United States due to visa complications and said they carry important documents with them at all times. Tax season was identified as particularly overwhelming, as unfamiliar forms, regulations and language barriers increase concerns about making errors that could affect visa status. Many students expressed a desire for clearer guidance during this process.

Social and cultural adjustment also shapes students’ experiences. Some described feeling singled out in campus jobs or athletic teams and noted differences in treatment from supervisors or peers. While resources are available through the Office of Culture and Belonging and the Student Government Association, some students said they are hesitant to raise concerns directly and would prefer anonymous options. Although some students found these conversations helpful, others expressed a desire for more visible action.

Alongside these challenges, students highlighted positive developments on campus. The recently established International Student Club, led by Jorge Gabriel Batista and Elena Jugovic, aims to foster connection and community among international students. Many students expressed excitement about the club and hope that it will provide meaningful support, particularly for those new to Bethel and adjusting to life in Kansas.

Led by Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, the film has generated high expectations. Robbie recently starred in the Barbie movie, which set records as the highest-grossing live-action comedy of all time. Elordi also achieved success in his 2025 film Frankenstein, winning the Critics’ Choice Award for best supporting actor.

The two have joined together to retell the English love story of Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff. Since childhood, the two characters have always loved each other, but as the story unfolds, their class differences drive them apart. This leads to Heathcliff’s rise to wealth and Catherine’s life in her prosperous marriage with the successful Edgar Linton. Though they go their separate ways, fate eventually brings them back together.

The book continues the story through Catherine and Heathcliff’s children. The forbidden love story seems to come full circle when Heathcliff’s ward starts to fall for Catherine’s daughter. The reader has to question whether the historical love story will repeat itself.

While the book follows the generational love triangle, the movie seems to focus on the first 23 chapters of Brontë’s novel, following Catherine and Heathcliff’s forbidden relationship. Will the two end up happily ever after, or will their differences keep them apart eternally? It all unfolds in theaters on Feb. 13.

It’s no accident that this gothic romance was released on Valentine’s Day weekend. Margot Robbie says, “That was always the plan … and it felt like the perfect weekend.”

Wuthering Heights is shaping up to be a can’t-miss romantic experience, perfect for couples looking to celebrate with a memorable date night. Industry tracking suggests this film could bring in upward of $40 million on opening weekend alone.

So, whether you’re celebrating the holiday of love with family, friends or that special someone, be sure to get your tickets now. This film is set to be one of the romantic highlights of the year on screen.

Having one of the best running backs in the country, Marshawn Lynch, it was assumed the Seahawks would run the ball, punching through to the end zone. Attempting to avoid predictability, Coach Pete Carol chose to throw the ball, thinking it would fool the defense. This play didn’t end well for Seattle as Malcolm Butler, a cornerback on the Patriots, intercepted the ball to win his team the Super Bowl.

Seattle fans have yet to live down the embarrassment of this play. Reliving it year after year, however, this year they have an opportunity for a rematch. The Seahawks and Patriots will face off in the Super Bowl again this weekend, on Sunday, Feb. 8th.

This Super Bowl is projected to be an incredibly competitive match-up. The Seahawks come to the game with a 16-3 record (16 wins, 3 losses), whereas the Patriots hold one more win than the Seahawks, sitting at a 17-3 record (17 wins, 3 losses).

This championship game will feature the best defensive team versus the best offensive team. The Seattle Seahawks have had a historically great defense. A recurring tradition on the Seahawks defense is nicknames, most well-known being the Seattle secondary in the 2010s known as the “Legion of Boom.” The new nickname of their commanding defense is ”The Dark Side,” and they are led by defensive coordinator Aden Durde, who joined the organization in 2024. They currently lead in many metrics, most notably leading the NFL in fewest points allowed per game.

On the other side, the Patriots feature one of the best offenses in the league. Ranked 3rd in overall yards per game at 379.4, and 3rd overall in postseason yards with 835. This powerhouse offense is led by offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and quarterback Drake Maye, who was drafted 3rd overall in 2024.

It is safe to say that this game is going to be a great watch. Who will win this time? Only time will tell. Grab your friends and tune in wherever you watch sports to see the Seattle Seahawks take on the New England Patriots this Sunday, February 8th.

“I was really excited, I had my Railer drink, and I felt really prepared. I had full faith in this team and the game plan.” Junior Alayna Vines, Lawton, OK, has been hard at work this past month, getting back into basketball after having a long volleyball season.

In the first quarter, both teams looked good and set up what appeared to be another tight contest, with the Threshers trailing 23-19. The start of the second quarter was rough for the Threshers. In the first three minutes, the Valor had an 8-0 run, which made things difficult for the girls. The Valor ended the half up 44-33.

Bethel responded to open the third quarter, putting together an 8-2 run in the first four minutes to cut the deficit to six. Vines drew multiple fouls and converted at the free-throw line.

They cut the lead to 56-54 to start the fourth. The final period kept the crowd engaged; the Valor struggled to make shots and began to deal with foul trouble. Both of their post players fouled out in the closing minutes.

It wasn’t until the clock fully expired that allowed fans to finally breathe. The girls were going into overtime, tied at 73. The crowd rose to its feet as the extra period began, bringing renewed energy inside Thresher Gym. Overtime remained tight until junior Alayna Vines knocked down a late two-pointer to give the Threshers an 81-79 lead. Bethel held on to secure the win over the No. 17 team in the country despite going 0-for-14 from 3-point range.

“Our goal was to get their post players in foul trouble, keep their point guard in front and out of the lane, and shut them down. We did all three,” head coach Jara Shoemaker said.

Bethel has found consistent success this season. The Threshers have shown growing trust in one another and confidence in the program. Bethel will return home on Valentine’s Day, hosting a 3 p.m. game at Thresher Gym.

“Stop Garner.” The big game plan for the Threshers that night was what Head Coach Jara Shoemaker emphasized before the game.

Energy-filled Thresher Gym on Wednesday night as a packed crowd watched the opening tip. Bethel brought that intensity to the defensive end immediately, forcing two steals and a turnover in the opening minute to score the game’s first points.

By halftime, the Threshers held a 31-26 lead in a tightly contested game. Friends struggled to find a rhythm offensively, as Bethel’s defense forced turnovers and disrupted scoring opportunities, including missed free throws. The second half followed a similar pattern.

Bethel appeared to settle into a strong rhythm as the game progressed, drawing a loud response from the home crowd. The Threshers played with noticeable aggression, building a 54-39 lead by the end of the third quarter against the nationally ranked Falcons.

Friends struggled to find an offensive rhythm against Bethel’s sustained defensive pressure and were unable to close the gap late. What was expected to be a close contest shifted as the Threshers extended their lead and maintained control. Bethel, unranked, closed out the game with a 72-59 victory.

“I’ve been waiting for them to play that way all year,” head coach Jara Shoemaker said after the game. “Their defense has gotten better, and their toughness has improved. That’s been my message to them. When we play at our best, we’re hard to match.”

Senior Caryn Yoder of Hesston delivered a standout performance, finishing with 17 points, five rebounds, and one steal. Her energy on both ends of the floor provided a spark for Bethel throughout the night.

“Honestly, I have to give all the credit to my teammates,” Yoder said. “I’m fortunate to have great passers and unselfish players around me. We talk about getting the ball to whoever is hot, and that night it happened to be me. When we play with energy, everyone plays better, and that was evident tonight.”

The Threshers return home Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2025, at 5 p.m. to face the Southwestern College Jinx.

The first convocation has occurred, reintroducing college norms as well as celebrating the achievements of the Bethel student body. Two weeks of classes have gone by, as well as a weekend celebrating the life and legacy of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The past week has laid the foundation for another spectacular semester for the Bethel College community. 

The first half of the academic year was filled with great memories across the board, featuring events such as Taste of Newton, Fall Fest, the fall musical, and many home football games. While acknowledging the joys of the past year, let’s take a look at what’s to come. 

Students are falling back into the swing of things and getting going with second-semester classes. Ashlyn Rushing, from Dallas, Texas, says she is excited to be back.

“It feels good to be back with friends. To return to our regular school routine,” said Rushing. Rushing is in the second semester of her first year in nursing school, and is looking forward to all of the exciting adventures she has ahead. 

With this being the last half of the year, it means the end of an era for some. Emma Killingsworth, a senior from Austin, Texas, stated, “I am excited to spend one last semester living with my best friends, taking in every second and making memories to last a lifetime.”  

With the return of students, the campus has undergone a shift in overall environment. While it may still be cold outside, many have noted a warmer ambience within the community now that everyone is back together again. Trent Voth even commented in convocation that he noticed this positive shift in mood after seeing students return to life on campus.

Some events to look forward to for the remainder of the year are the spring play, Bubbert’s film contest, Mudslam, Threshpies, and, of course, graduation. 

This semester is sure to provide many opportunities for students to have a wonderful college experience. Be sure to branch out and explore all that Bethel has to offer. 

Growing up, VanRoyen was surrounded by volleyball, as her mother was a volleyball coach herself. She was able to experience playing college volleyball at Friends University before transferring to Newman University and having a baby. This led her to switch from being a player to starting her coaching journey at Neosho County, where her stepdad had been coaching women’s basketball.

“Coaching is all about who you know,” said VanRoyen.

Her first coaching job was as an assistant softball coach instead of volleyball. She was 21 and realized quickly that softball just was not the right fit for her. VanRoyen remembers seeing how excited her head coach was about softball. This made her realize that she did not feel that way about softball, but about volleyball instead. With a new goal in mind, she got an opportunity to be an assistant volleyball coach at Garden City Community College, along with being an assistant women’s basketball coach and the head coach of cheer and dance.

Due to her fiancé going to physical therapy school, they relocated to the Kansas City area, where she coached the volleyball team at Highland Community College. “We had a few really successful seasons up there,” VanRoyen said. She then applied for the head position at Pratt Community College, where Tim Schwarzenberg was the athletic director at the time, and got the job. She spent four years coaching at Pratt before now coaching the volleyball team at Bethel, reuniting with athletic director Tim Schwarzenberg.

“Spring is where development happens,” VanRoyen said when asked how she feels about joining the team during the spring season. She explained that the offseason is a vital piece in moving forward as a team and allows them to grow “bigger, better and stronger.” Arriving at Bethel was smoother than expected due to other coaches welcoming her with open arms. VanRoyen described the culture at Bethel as unique compared to her previous college experiences.

“We are not only here for ourselves, but for all student-athletes, which is quite rare to find.”

The support and communication are not limited to each sport but come from the entire athletic department.

Her goals for the team are to build a strong foundation of trust that each player can rely on for support. “Really, it’s about being present and being in these experiences with them,” she said. “Good or bad, it doesn’t matter.” VanRoyen wants to be a cheerleader for her team as well as a coach. She believes that if the team trusts her, players will better understand the decisions she has to make, creating a stronger team environment. She also expects everyone to bring their own personality to the team. “I believe that to be a well-rounded team, everyone needs to be able to be their authentic selves.” She explained that when players feel comfortable enough to “just be themselves,” they can focus on performing their best on the court.

“Volleyball is a mental sport, and the only way to build upon achievements from last season is to be competitive and push one another.” In volleyball, someone always scores, making it different from many other sports. When players make mistakes and lose a point, they must transition quickly to the next play and showcase their “next ball mentality,” as VanRoyen describes it.

VanRoyen believes the team has strong potential and ambitious goals for the future. “I believe a realistic goal is to host a playoff game each year,” which requires finishing in the top four of the conference. She emphasized this success will not come automatically from last season but requires the entire team to stay unified. By working hard each day, building a positive team environment and refusing to give up, VanRoyen believes the team is capable of great things. “All the hard work will pay off when our team faces tough conference competition.”

Schrag said she originally began running because of encouragement from her cousin and sister. “My sister also encouraged me, and she kind of asked my PE teacher, who was also the cross country coach, if she would encourage me to try out.”

When asked what brought her to Bethel College, Schrag explained that her high school coach began working at Bethel during her senior year. Although the coach did not stay long, Schrag ultimately decided to commit.

“I actually didn’t start running until my freshman year of high school,” said Schrag. “I had no experience besides maybe basketball in middle school, but other than that I had no running experience.”

Running can be a demanding sport, and Schrag emphasized the importance of connection with her teammates for motivation. “Being able to come to practice with my teammates, especially my girls, they motivate me a lot,” she said. “And also my coach motivates me a lot, just wanting me to meet the goals that he knows I can reach.”

“He knows that I can succeed, so having him there always helps me stay motivated to want to do better and want to keep at it.”

Head cross country coach Julio Martinez highlighted Schrag’s strengths as both a competitor and teammate. “Bethany can be summed up best as someone who looks like a butterfly but stings like a bee. She competes with a quiet confidence, but when it’s time to race, she’s fearless and relentless.”

“Bethany embraces every challenge put in front of her and pours everything she has into reaching each goal,” Martinez said. “She’s supportive, selfless, and always willing to help others, making her truly one of a kind within our program.” Martinez also noted that since his arrival as head coach, Schrag now holds eight school records.

When asked what it has been like to coach Schrag, Martinez emphasized her growth and drive. “What makes her journey so special is that just when we think we’re approaching her ceiling, she continues to raise it.”

“It was definitely a moment I’ll never forget,” Schrag said when talking about qualifying for nationals. “When my name was called, it was kind of surreal.” She added that she was unsure she had qualified when she finished the race. “It wasn’t something I was expecting, so it was definitely something I’m very proud of.”

Schrag said trusting the process has helped her continue to push through challenges. “Your work will pay off, is what I tell myself. Even on the days where I really don’t want to get out and run, even doing the smallest thing like stepping outside.”

“In the end, you’re only going to get better if you just keep going at it,” Added Schrag.

Over Christmas break, Schrag competed in the NAIA Marathon Classic in Dallas. “If I did the marathon, it would be something that my past self would never believe I could, so why not?” Said Schrag.

“I trusted the process, I trusted my coach,” continued Schrag. “I trusted myself, too, and I listened to my body. If I needed to take a break to prevent an injury, I listened.”

Schrag said the support of her teammates helped her through the 26.2-mile race. “I had two of my teammates come with me on the trip, Marcus [Fiedler] and Emma [Graber], and just the support back at home, it was immeasurable.”

“Bethany is genuinely one of the best people to have with you on the starting line,” said junior Emma Graber from Divide, Colo. “She is supportive and motivating every day at practice and especially on race days. I’ve been running with her since my first day at Bethel, and she is my favorite person to run with.”

In addition to competing, Schrag is a member of the Bethel Choir. “I will say it’s a challenge to balance student teaching, running, and choir,” she said. “But in the end, singing in the choir and also running—it’s my way to decompress after a stressful day at school.”

Looking back at her time being a part of the cross country team, Schrag said the relationships she built at Bethel have meant the most. “We wanted each other to succeed so much, and that’s something I can look back on with positive emotions. And our coaches were so passionate, and that’s something I’ll always remember.”

But why the sudden interest? The root is in the marketing. In one of the world’s biggest soccer leagues, the English Premier League, 11 of the 20 teams are sponsored by sports betting companies. In the States, the NBA (National Basketball Association) holds DraftKings and FanDuel as “Official Gaming Partners.” They are also sponsored by 12 other betting companies as “authorized gaming operators.” This is by no means accidental; this is multiple-million-dollar companies praying on the innocence of teenagers, not fully understanding the risk before they take part.

We’ve seen this before, with vapes, nicotine pouches, and more. The market for teens will always be easy for major companies. It doesn’t stop at jersey sponsors or commercial breaks. It lives where this generation breathes, with “locks of the day” on TikTok, Instagram, etc. We see so many celebratory screenshots, but hiding behind that are hundreds of thousands of dollars lost, the empty bank accounts, or the “lock” that will be the last-ditch effort to just break even.

Sports betting isn’t designed to be a one-time decision, mirroring in-person gambling. Open any betting app, and you’ll see the same promises over and over. FanDuel and Underdog promote offers such as “Bet $5 Get $300 If Bet Wins,” and “Up to $1000 bonus funds when you make your first deposit.” One bet turns into another, especially when the money doesn’t even leave the app. A win equals the money going straight into the next wager. And when you lose, it invites you right back to where you started. This constant cycle is built to be ignored by users; it’s built to keep people playing longer than they are meant to.

Sports betting is currently illegal in 11 states, but even in these places, people will find a grey area and manage to continue. Sports betting doesn’t need to be illegal to be worth questioning. Ask yourself the question: why is this everywhere? Why is this marketed so heavily to young people? When gambling becomes this easy, constant, and invisible, who is it really designed for? And who pays the price?

“Connection is one of the most important protective factors against seasonal mood downturns,” says mental health expert Jennifer Kemlan. Students can get connected in many ways this semester, and intramurals are a perfect example. Every Tuesday night, students come together to compete and socialize — whether it is a game of soccer, volleyball, or something else — offering a chance to stay active, have fun, and connect with others.

Bethel will host a wide variety of sports events in the coming weeks. Whether students are interested in softball, basketball, or tennis, there is something for everyone this February. Attending these events, staying active, and connecting with others are great ways to boost mood and fight off the winter blues.

Behavioral science experts at Goldsmiths University suggest that attending live music can boost well-being by about 21 percent compared to other activities. Bethel’s choir will host a Chamber Singers concert on Feb. 1. The concert offers another opportunity for students to enjoy live music, lift their spirits, and connect with the campus community.

While attending events is a great way to combat the winter blues, there are also simple habits students can adopt to make the most of the colder months. Southern New Hampshire health experts recommend light therapy, time outdoors, vitamin D supplements, increased daylight, and daily movement.

Putting these recommendations into practice does not have to be complicated. Even something as simple as going for a walk outside on a nice day can provide more daylight exposure, fresh air, and physical activity. When outdoor conditions are less inviting, the new wellness center provides an alternative for staying active. From pickleball and basketball to treadmills, weightlifting, and volleyball, there are many options to help increase daily movement.

Together, these strategies offer effective ways to manage the seasonal sadness that often comes with the colder months. All Bethel events mentioned can be found on the Bethel website under the Events section. By staying engaged, active, and connected, students can make the most of the semester despite the lingering winter gloom.

Bethel began the spring semester with the announcement of a new student wellness counselor. Elizabeth Rempel has stepped into the role, which had been vacant throughout the fall semester, expanding access to mental health resources for students on campus.

Rempel is a Bethel alumna, graduating in 2005 with a degree in psychology. After completing her undergraduate studies, she earned a Master of Science in social work from the University of Texas at Austin. She is a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed clinical addiction counselor, bringing more than 10 years of professional experience to her new position.

Before returning to Bethel, Rempel worked in the medical field as an integrated care consultant for Hunter Health. In that role, she collaborated with health care providers to support patients’ mental and emotional well-being alongside their physical health. Her background in integrated care has shaped her approach to counseling and student support.

Rempel is filling a vital role on campus, supporting the mental and emotional health of the Bethel community. College students often face challenges balancing academics, relationships, athletics and personal responsibilities. Having a trained, licensed counselor available on campus allows students to seek help in a familiar and accessible environment.

“Mental health affects every aspect of our lives — how we handle academics, friendships and athletics,” Rempel said. “Having a check-in, being aware and staying on top of it can prevent future issues down the road.”

Through her role, Rempel hopes to maximize students’ access to mental health care and reduce barriers to seeking support. She emphasized that counseling services are available not only for students in crisis, but also for those who want guidance, stress management strategies or someone to talk to.

The Student Counseling Center is located on the lower level of the Wellness and Athletic Center in Room 129. Students can schedule appointments using the link provided in Rempel’s introductory email. However, she said formal scheduling is not always necessary. Students are welcome to stop by, introduce themselves and see the space even if they are not ready to schedule a therapy appointment. If Rempel is meeting with another student, visitors may wait in the seating area outside the wellness office.

Rempel said she is excited to connect with students and build relationships over time. She looks forward to the sense of community and consistency that working on a college campus provides.

Her arrival marks a meaningful step in strengthening mental health support at Bethel and ensuring students have access to the resources they need to succeed both academically and personally.

Bethel partnered with Hesston College, the Newton Community for Racial Justice and the Newton Public Library to create a weekend filled with music, prayer and service. While classes and campus work were paused, students were able to sign up to volunteer both on campus and at community events, contributing to the celebration. These acts of service reflected King’s legacy and emphasized MLK Day as a “day on, not a day off.” A central part of the weekend’s program was Bethel College alumna and artist-in-residence Roz McCommon, who worked with students and community to contribute to the events.

The celebration began Sunday, Jan. 18, at Hesston Mennonite Church with “Melodies from Heaven,” hosted by Hesston College. The collaborative concert featured the Central Kansas Master Chorale, the Bethel College Concert Choir and the Hesston College Bel Canto Singers, along with McCommon and her band. The performance highlighted the cultural influence of music genres including African, spiritual, bluegrass, blues, jazz, soul and gospel.

On Monday morning, Hesston College hosted a “Prayer Breakfast,” inviting students and community members to a shared meal and to connect through prayers led by local clergy. Throughout the day, the Newton Community for Racial Justice hosted an “MLK History-Themed Escape Room” at the Newton Public Library, inviting students, families and community members to participate in teamwork and problem-solving activities while learning about King’s life.

In the evening, the public was invited to a “Historic Listening Experience” in Memorial Hall featuring King’s speech, “The Future of Integration,” delivered at Bethel on Jan. 21, 1960. The final event, Bethel’s MLK Celebration Event, was led by McCommon, who presented “A Better World: The Journey of MLK.” This theatrical music performance included the Bethel College choirs and orchestra, the Hesston College Bel Canto Singers and local artists, highlighting King’s life and his continuing impact through music.

Through shared events, performances and acts of service, Bethel College honored King not only by remembering his legacy but also by contributing to his vision of serving others while strengthening connections and a sense of belonging within the campus community.

The film follows a convict who is sent to explore an ocean of blood discovered on a desolate moon using a shabby submarine nicknamed the “Iron Lung.” His journey takes place in a post-apocalyptic future after an event known as “The Quiet Rapture” resulted in all known stars and habitable planets in the universe disappearing.

Prior to the film’s release, it had already developed a dedicated fanbase and a massive media following due to the popularity of Markiplier. He originally launched his YouTube channel in 2012, initially for sketch comedy, but quickly pivoted to gaming, gaining traction with the horror survival game Amnesia.

As Markiplier continued to upload a variety of videos, he began to build a massive fanbase following the release of the 2014 indie horror game Five Nights at Freddy’s. His gameplay of the game skyrocketed, gaining millions of views and rapid subscriber growth, later establishing him as a top gaming influencer.

For gaming and pop culture enthusiasts, the cast of Iron Lung has some familiar voices throughout the film. One notable cast member is Troy Baker, best known for his role in the game The Last of Us as well as the game Batman: Arkham Knight. Additionally, the voice actor for Charlie Magne in the hit show Hazbin Hotel, Elsie Lovelock, will also be included in the upcoming film.

Popular gaming YouTuber Seán McLoughlin, or Jacksepticeye, will act alongside Fischbach. For gaming YouTube fans, seeing the two act on screen together is a big deal due to Jacksepticeye and Markiplier being featured in many videos together over the last decade.

The anticipation surrounding Iron Lung’s release is prevalent due to tickets selling out in minutes across 2,500 theaters. Our own Chisholm Trail 8 in Newton will get its own showing of Iron Lung on opening day for the film. According to Deadline.com, the film is projected to garner $9M-$10M when it opens on Jan. 30.

Tickets for Iron Lung are available on the Chisholm Trail 8 website starting on Jan. 30.

“We have not really had a game where we felt like we played well, kind of just throughout. We want to play every single possession as hard as we possibly can.” Said coach Artaz

Bethel jumped out to an early lead, going up by nearly 20 points within the first 10 minutes of the first half and showing no signs of slowing down. By halftime, Bethel held a commanding 30-point lead.

“We want to play the best we can play,” Artaz said. “If we go out there and try to play soft defensively and relax, it’s going to look real ugly.” He said that mindset carried into what he expected from the team in the second half.

Bethel opened the second half with the same energy, scoring immediately while consistently creating turnovers and defensive stops.

“For our defense, our mindset is you’ve got to be a dog every day,” said sophomore Dominic Harris of Flower Mound, Texas. “When we play as hard as we can, good things happen. That’s what I try to do.” He said the approach reflects the team’s overall defensive effort.

With the game pretty shut and close, Bethel successfully keeps Tabor out, ending the game with a 35-point lead. Senior Carmelo Yakubu had an impressive game with 18 points, three steals, and two assists to be the point leader for Bethel.

The Threshers return home Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2025, at 8 p.m. to face the NO. 14 Friends University Falcons.

The first quarter was a feeling-out period, but the Threshers started strong and led 24-17. The second quarter followed a similar pattern, and the Threshers carried a 34-27 lead into halftime. Bethel kept both post players contained near the rim while also defending the perimeter.

That defensive success did not continue into the third quarter. The Threshers struggled to keep Tabor’s senior Tayton Smith from scoring at the rim, allowing the Bluejays to take a one-point lead, 35-34. Bethel struggled to find its offensive rhythm, as shots that typically fell short failed to go in.

“Our game plan coming in was to slow down Smith, who leads them in scoring and averages a double-double,” head coach Jara Shoemaker said. “They outscored us 18-10 in the third quarter, and she scored five quick points to open the half, so we had to reemphasize the game plan.”

With less than 20 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, a basket by junior Madyson McKinzie was overturned due to a shot-clock violation, giving Tabor possession with Bethel leading 61-59. Tabor responded with a 3-pointer to take a 62-61 lead.

With 6.7 seconds remaining, the Threshers called a timeout. Senior Caryn Yoder inbounded the ball to junior Kendall Locke, who looked for junior Madyson McKinzie, but Tabor’s defense disrupted the play, leaving little time on the clock. The ball ended up back in Locke’s hands. Locke dribbled to the right just beyond the 3-point line and, as time expired, released the shot and scored the game-winning basket.

“I was definitely frustrated. I think I was more frustrated with myself because I didn’t feel good today,” said Locke. “I was missing shots I make all the time, not getting calls, and I let my emotions get to me a bit. I had to refocus, realize where I’m at and who I’m playing for, and just lock in. I made a game-winning shot. I don’t think I’ll ever make that shot again in a million years,” she said. “Me hitting that shot, I mean, it was luck, but I think it was supposed to go that way. We worked our butts off tonight.”

Locke finished with 19 points, six rebounds, and four steals. Karlee Locke also had a strong performance, recording 14 points, 10 rebounds, four blocks, and one steal. The Locke sisters combined for a standout night, with additional scoring support from McKinzie, who added 13 points. The Threshers return home Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2025, at 6 p.m. to face the NO. 23 Friends University Falcons.