MR Vol 3 Oct. 2016

To the curious reader scanning this letter, thank you for picking up the latest print edition of Manchac Review. This issue reflects the creativity of our diverse student body at Southeastern Louisiana University by showcasing the work of students across various disciplines. The staff of Manchac Review is proud to feature an array of craft, from the wordsmiths whose writing fills these pages to the artists who have so graciously shared their stunning visuals. We hope that this issue not only entertains, but also inspires other students to indulge in their creative impulses. volume 3, 2013/2014 Executive Editor J.V. Mina Content Editors Kiah Jackson, Kirsten Mixon, Marley Stuart,Trevor Nixon Promotional Managers Kristen McGoey, Amanda Courtney Production Managers Zachary Lyons, Wilhelm Eisenwurst Faculty Committee Alison Pelegrin, Dr. Jason Landrum, Dr. David Hanson, Dr. Joel Fredell Manchac Review is Southeastern Louisiana University’s creative journal, updated continuously online as Manchac Review Online and published annually in print format. Manchac Review Online is an interactive experience including fiction, poetry, drama, art, music/lyrics, and video. Submissions are accepted all year. Submissions accepted when an edition is in press will be held for the next edition. All submissions published online are considered for publication in the selective print format at the end of each spring semester. Views and opinions expressed in Manchac Review are those of the individual authors and are not intended to represent the official views of Southeastern Louisiana University’s administration, faculty, staff, or students; the faculty committee; or the Southeastern Writing Center. All depictions of events and characters in published works are fictional, and any resemblance to real events or persons is coincidental. Some pieces contain explicit language and content depicting adult themes and situations. The responsibility for the selection and editing of all content, including grammatical and mechanical emendations, is assumed by the editors. All editors are students of Southeastern Louisiana University. Editorial advice, financial management, and assistance are provided by the Southeastern Louisiana University Department of English; Department Head, Dr. David C. Hanson; and the Southeastern Writing Center. Cover Image: “Below a Commute” by Heather Vallaire. © 2013 by Southeastern Louisiana University. Personally, this issue represents a milestone in my academic career. When Dr. Jason Landrum first approached me with the opportunity to serve as the executive editor of Manchac Review, I felt both honored and elated. By then, I had worked as an intern for Where Y’at? magazine and as the editorial assistant for 19TH Century Studies— positions which gave me working experience in publication. Even with that knowledge, I was still a bit nervous taking over Manchac Review. My initial goal was to produce another issue of the journal that honored the hard work and efforts of the previous editors, as well as to showcase the creative talent of Southeastern students. I wasn’t sure if I had the wherewithal to make it happen, but I knew I had to work fiercely to uphold the reputation of Manchac Review. Once the submissions began rolling in, I was amazed by the diversity and quality of work produced by students—from the stunning photography and paintings, to the eclectic mix of creative writing that now fills the pages of this edition, the excellence of the work is indisputable and a testament to the talent and ambition of Southeastern students. The dedication of these authors and artists is inspiring, for even amid a barrage of academic and personal obligations, their attention to their craft never wavers I feel that the content of Manchac Review reflects the skills honed by such a commitment, for I cannot help but be inspired every time I flip through this issue. Remember the names of these artists and authors, because one day they will turn their creative passion into success—and you can honestly claim to have known their work since it first appeared in our student publication. While the production process proved to be challenging at times, this print edition came together thanks to the hard work of our Manchac Review staff, the support from my fellow English graduate students, and the guidance of our experienced faculty advisors. Even as a writer, I find it hard to adequately express my appreciation and gratitude for the many great minds that have made this issue possible. If it wasn’t for the collective efforts of my colleagues, coworkers, and mentors, I’d still be staring aimlessly at this computer screen and wondering where to start. I would also like to extend an indescribable amount of gratitude to my family and friends, who have supported me through every frantic technology question and Facebook page “Like” request, as well as reassuring me during bouts of pressure. I hope readers will find the work of these students not only entertaining, but inspiring—for there is a creative streak in every individual just waiting to erupt. It is my honor to present this print issue of Manchac Review to our community and campus. Indulge, enjoy, and channel the muse. J. V. Mina Executive Ed

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