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Make the first impression a lasting one. In the February 2024 issue of Mass Appeal Magazine, we put this into practice with the theme of innocence. First impressions can be anticipated, but they are often unexpected. Whether it’s a date, job interview, new neighbor, or someone you met in the grocery line, you never know where an interaction can go. Take the leap of faith. Maintain your innocence. And get better at saying “Hello.” This month, our contributors discuss those initial meet-and-greets and how they pertain to the courtroom, the screen, the radio, and the classroom. 

Take It to Court 

A district court judge is the perfect person to begin this discussion. Richard Perque chronicles voir dire—when the judge and the attorneys ask the potential jurors various questions to determine their suitability to serve on the jury. It includes individuals providing reasons for their dismissal from the system. And of course, with varying success. In this ‘910’ piece, Perque champions jury duty. He shows how jurors can change for the better through the court proceedings.  

We continue to focus on the judicial system in ‘Savoir Faire.’ Lawyer Ryan Byers writes on courtroom etiquette. The outfit choices of jurors can drastically alter a judge’s impression of them. Byers also delves into cell phone use and following instructions closely. Do your research and you may help someone maintain innocence.  

Finding Her Voice 

Loren Raye found her voice a few times over. In ‘Transferable,’ Raye details her career story. It began in radio broadcasting. Just as she was truly honing her craft the COVID-19 pandemic hit. However, Raye wasn’t ready to give up on her communication skills. So, she pivoted to becoming a public speaking coach. Learn how she connected the two jobs and get inspired.  

Say ‘hello’ to rising Canadian star Kimberly-Sue Murray. The focus of February’s ‘On The Rise,’ Murray found her passion for filmmaking early on after reenacting The Blair Witch Project on her parent’s camcorder in her childhood backyard. Murray would go on to act, voiceover and write for various projects. And this is just the beginning.  

First Requires Bravery 

To round out our ‘First Impressions’ pieces we end with ‘925.’ Genne Liu chronicles her path to embracing innocence. Liu was the first in her family to attend college and achieve a salaried job. Although she felt naïve at first, especially in college, she found solace when she admitted to not knowing something. So, she asked questions. She talked to professors, librarians, different student groups, the financial aid office, RA’s, and more. And it altered her life. Accepting innocence can do wonders. 

To read the full articles, go to the February 2024 edition of Mass Appeal Magazine.