October '08 Issue
Sept 26, 2008 17:52:06 GMT -5
Post by Principal Vale on Sept 26, 2008 17:52:06 GMT -5
The Chatters
Editor's Note
Editor's Note
Thanks students for all the support that has come from last issue, we are all thrilled that people have taken so well to the newer editions to the staff. And we hope that you will love this month's issue just as much as you loved last month's.
Also, a special note to all Seniors that are eighteen and registered. Please remember to go out on the 4th and put your say into the historical election at hand. Once you're done voting - and everyone else is welcome to check this out, too - you can find a poll on the Academy's website under the newspaper section for who you'd like to see as president. The results will be revealed in next month's issue.
Finally, all of the staff extends a Happy Halloween to everyone and wish you all a good end to October and November.
Evelynne Snow
Editor
Fashion Section
Today, I give you an exclusive look into the closets of our fellow classmates for the upcoming event of the year, Halloween! The costume picking has started - what will be the most popular choices this year? And especially, what made those particular student pick those costumes? This is what we will find out.
Firstly, I went simple and asked my very own roommate, Evelynne Snow, to give me a look at her first choice of a costume for this Halloween, and she quite willingly agreed to show me the silky, geisha outfit she picked out. Why a geisha? Because it would be something fun to wear. Which is, let's admit, a much better reason than picking it because it's popular.
Next, I moved to go and take a peek in my good friends' closets, starting with Aidan Steele, Senior Theater student, who has revealed a knight outfit, which is apparently a childhood dream - and I'm quite sure he isn't the only one who had this kind of a desire. Tyler Hale, our very own Senior Dancer, went for a more traditional costume with the cowboy look - and no doubt he looks very fancy with his leather boots and cute hat. The reason? Tyler was quite honest, and admitted to a lack of budget. Obviously, lassos aren't very pricey. And finally on the boys' side, Milo Parker, our very own Creative Writing Senior prankster, let me in the room that has not been seeing as much female presence lately, and showed me the gangster costume that he will be wearing on Halloween day, explaining his choice also with a personal dream - and it would obviously be sensible not to upset someone whose dream is to be a gangster, as a warning.
Finishing with the boy's dorm building (access of which I obtained permission for), I then took a small trip to my own side of the grounds, starting off with Taylor Smith, Junior Dancer, who didn't go too far off from her own fields of studies and picked a flap dancer outfit, reminding of the 20s, and the choice was quite simple - merely because it was a pretty costume. Next on the list, Addison Blythe, Junior Artist who has made herself well known over the last two years, didn't lose her time with much talk and willing fished her costume out of a pile of clothes at the bottom of her closet - a mix of black and colorful fabric that form the jester, mardis gras dress she picked, because it fitted her style and liking, and was on sale. Finally, the last who received a visit was Film Student Senior Holly Edward, who went with a more popular outfit and will reveal herself as a golden fairy. And why, may it be asked? Because it was the first she saw that didn't look slutty. As blunt as ever, Holly.
This ends October's fashion article - I hope you enjoyed it, and I am glad to be part of the newspapers' team!
E.C.
Sport Section
Ice skating. Many debate on whether the subject is an actual sport or if it’s just an excuse for girls…and guys… to run around in frilly costumes made of bird feathers and sparkly embroidery that blind the spectators. Lots of people gather that it’s a girl’s sport; that it was made for girls to prance around on ice and look pretty and whatnot. So, you may be asking yourselves why a guy, would be writing an article about such a thing. There are many reason to why this article is being written, but I won’t go into them all. Well, hockey is a sport, and in hockey, some of the same techniques that are used in ice skating are used. Players spin around their opponents as a tactic to get around them without facing them head on. Sure it might not be all that pretty, but they leap and they jumps as well. In hockey, some the same muscles that are used in ice skating are used as well. Mainly the legs, but the arm muscles are used to hold and guide the stick, to put force into a pass or a shot. Ice skaters use their arms to complete jumps and to keep balance, and let’s face it…to make things pretty. Hockey players, ice skate. They skate…on ice. Sure the objectives and goals are different, but each sport gains points. So what’s the big deal? The only major difference is that in hockey, one is required to wear lots of gear, and there even still may be bloodshed. And in ice skating, you usually see girls wearing as little as possible. No one can complain about that. But guys ice skate too, but we’re not going to get into that.
There are other reasons why this article was written. Mainly because ice skating, has been on the mind recently…or more so teaching ice skating and what the lesson entailed. In conclusion, when you look at the similarities and the differences between the two, you garner that the similarities outweigh the differences, and thus ice skating should be viewed as a sport. If not for anything other than the action you get on ice. And that’s meant in more ways than one.
E.E.
Dance Section
Any kind of physical activity can be related to a heatlhier life style, and dance is not an exception to this rule. No matter what music you are dancing to, how fast you are going and how experienced you are, dancing will keep you healthy in many ways, and today I will try and give you little tips as to how to try and fit a bit of movement in your busy lives.
Dancing is not only healthy for your body, but also for you mind. Not only does it offers possibilities to increase your imagination, it can sometimes have a magical effect on the brain - chosen well, the steps can do much more than just leading you from point A to point B, it can awaken your creativity, give you a feeling of happiness, create a new romance. And then, technically speaking, it also has a lot of positive effects on the brain itself, because exercice in any form increases the level of brain chemicals, which will lead the nerve cells to grow. And then, obviously, dancing requires you to remember things such as sequences and steps, which will improve your memory skills.
The physical benefits are also important - it can help, among other things, to strengthen your bones and muscles, tone your entire body, improve your posture and balance (which reduces the risk of falls and back aches) and increase your stamina and flexibility. It can even reduce the levels of stress and tension after a long day, build confidence in yourself and it also offers great possibilities of meeting new peoples and develop your social skills! Also, dancing can ward of illnesses such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases, osteoporosis, and even depression.
Obviously, saying something and doing it are two very different things. Not every kind of dancing are adequate for everybody, and some will interest more than others. However, it is hard to chose on a style at random, and so the best way of doing so is to try out a bit and experience - and keep an open mind. Try not to associate types of dancing sure as square dancing to older people, because you can do it do and obtain great benefits from it. Other types of dancing are the swing, line dancing, folk dancing, ballroom (such as waltz, quick step, cha-cha, etc.), belly dancing, salsa, flamenco, jazz, tap and modern.
Where to dance now? There are several options to this, and the simplest is to sign up for a class. Look up on the internet, searching by location and style you want to try, and you should be able to find a place near you to practice any kind of dancing. If you don't want to learn dances in a more professional manner, or don't have any money to spend, clubs are also a good option. Club dancing is usually more of doing whatever you want to be doing on a dance floor, but the benefits are the same as those mentionned above. And finally, if you are a bit more shy and would rather keep your dancing skills (or lack of thereof) to yourself, there is nothing that keeps you from turning up the music in your own dorm and moving to the beat!
So tell me, why aren't you dancing yet?
T.S.
Play of the Month
There are a lot of great plays out there. I (personally) am a huge fan of Broadway musicals. Some of them are really sad (Like Les Mes), some are really breath taking (Like Phantom of the Opera), and some are just so, so funny that you have to try hard to control yourself…like Avenue Q! Avenue Q is probably the funniest musical I have ever seen before. Don’t worry, don’t worry… I’m going to tell you all about it. Just sit back and relax and get ready to want to go see it.
Avenue Q is not your typical play. It is a spin off of the kid show ‘Sesame Street’. The play is done with puppets and real people. When watching it, you forget that you’re even watching puppets sing and dance. This show is a lot like ‘Sesame Street’, but does not have the same rating! Avenue Q is geared for an audience about sixteen to thirty. It is indeed rated ‘R’ and they say that you really should be eighteen or older, but I saw it and I’m fifteen. Plus, none of us listen to silly little rating, anyway. They are just there to try and stop us. This just makes us want to go see it more, right? Oh…I’m getting off topic. Where was I? Oh yeah! Avenue Q!
The musical Avenue Q is all about this kid, Princeton, who is right out of college and wants to find his purpose in life. So, he moves to New York City to try and find out what that purpose he is looking for is. He is forced to move to Avenue Q because it is the cheapest place around and he has no job. When he firsts get to Avenue Q, Princeton meets all of his really funny neighbors. There is Brian (the unemployed comedian), his wife, Christmas Eve (yes, that’s really her name), his neighbors Nicky and Rod are very nice people…but Rod has an “interesting” secret that we have to figure out what it is! Then there is Gary Coleman (the one and only Gary Coleman!) who is his superintendent and Terkkie Monster who is addicted to internet porn. Finally, he meets Kate Monster. They fall in and out of love too many times for me to count. Along the way Princeton meets a stripper, goes to a wedding, gets Kate fired, and has a terrible day dream.
Some of the songs they sing are, “The internet is for Porn”, “Everyone’s a little bit Raciest”, “If you were Gay”, “Mix Tape”, and “My Girlfriend, Who lives in Canada”. They are just so, so funny!
Avenue Q is the play to see this month!...Did I mention that it won a Tony? Until next time…
A.D.
Comic Strip
To make up for last month's hasty and unprofessional sketching that doesn't have its place in such a newspapers (not my words...), I put a bit more time on it - it was that or getting kicked off the papers.
Mystery solved! And to those who get offended, sorry, I don't do censure.
Mediums Used: Papermate black ink pen, random piece of paper, photoshop Adobe (for the colorization, thanks Connor ) and about half an hour.
A.B.
Featured Photograph
This month's photograph has been taken by a photography student who has asked not to be named.
Taken in London, England, United Kingdom
CD Critique
While I like to follow music for its caliber and message, sometimes a catchy tune will merge itself with my cranium and decide to reside there for days on end. So for this critique I decided that mixing the two would result in pure music bliss, so I’ve devoting this month to music that is not only catchy but comes with a message. With so much stigma in the world of rap and hip-hop for some of there more violent lyrics and fleshier videos, I would like to show another side of hip-hop, as well as bringing a very turbulent artist songs to view so my two picks are:
First up is M.I.A coming in with “Sunshowers”; this song debuted as her single for her album Arular, since its release “Sunshowers” has made waves nation wide and internationally. Promptly being banned from MTV’s circulation, when its lyrics deemed inappropriate, and though I for one don’t agree with this call seeing as MTV allows some rather raunchy music into its abode. The lyrics in the mist of this controversy go as follows: "you wanna go? you wanna winna war? Like PLO, I don't surrendo" The songs meaning is one that states that the media such as our news sources should not portray certain things as good and evil and the hypocrisy of certain countries. Though I myself will not point out my direct view on this political view I will only say that the ever controversial M.I.A did a wonderful job with this single with classic beats and a catchy tune (for those of you who can understand it for yes at times the lyrics seemed to difficult to understand) with great meaning.
Our next song comes to us as a remix from a very inspired Lupe Fiasco, many of you may know him for his single “Kick, Push” but todays song in question is his remix of “Jesus Walks” titled “Muhammad Walks.” a tribute to his religion that being Islam. Lupe Fiasco’s “Muhammad Walks” is quite simply amazing, coming at a time when most of the world had and unclear vision of Islam he gently shows us a peek into his world. With the same beat as “Jesus Walks” but with Lupe’s rapping we hear his portrayal clearly, and the view given is one that shows us that not only is this religion peaceful for him but his love of it. Again I will stress that I have no wish to offend anyone’s religion nor political stance other than to say that this song has a great catchy beat to it and a message not of hate but of tolerance.
Songs of the Week:
“Jesus Walks” my homage to Mr. West, this song is not only catchy and filled with amazing verses but you can compare the original to the remix and deem your favorite pick.
“Fury of the Storm” by DragonForce, if there was ever a chance to let go and rock out this song offers that opportunity, the guitar alone leaves you breathless so enjoy a truly metal experience.
"Hermosas Estrellas" With truly amazing vocals and a great background of musicians Andrea Bocelli does what he does best, sing a breathtaking song. Sit back and let the joy of this song run through your veins.
E.C.
Interview of the Month
It's time for the section I know you all look forward to ever week, another highly education interview. This time I've decided to interview our editor, Miss. Evelynne Snow.
Interviewer: Hello Evelynne. Good to have you here with me for this interview.
Evelynne: Yeah well I'm flattered you chose me for the interview this month.
Interviewer: So by picking you does it mean...?
Evelynne: For the thousandth time no, Milo. You aren't giving anyone any advice to anyone through the paper. Just get on with the interview.
Interviewer: Alright, fine. First things first, how does it feel to be editor?
Evelynne: Obviously it's a really big honor and a huge responsibility, but I'm very thankful for the job either way. I love it.
Interviewer: What advice - since you're allowed to give it apparently - would you give to those who are aspiring journalists?
Evelynne: I'd have to say that anyone who wants to be a part of the staff should really just work hard and submit any ideas that they have for the paper. Hard work can get you a long ways.
Interviewer: Now Evelynne, I have to ask. What the heck is with the gossip column?
Evelynne: It's always been a part of the paper, Milo.
Interviewer: Well I figured since you were the editor, you'd take it out.
Evelynne: I'm not about to change tradition just because you or I don't like something.
Interviewer: Well who writes it then?
Evelynne: You well know the column is anonymous for a reason.
Interviewer: Obviously with all the crap they s-
Evelynne: Do you have any real other questions, Milo? I have to still put together the back page.
Interviewer: Nope I guess that's all. Thank you for your time.
Movie Critique
Musicals. We all love those, don't we? And lately, they've become increasingly present in the movie industry, from Broadway classics to numerous sequels built in the same way and using a similar concept (HSM someone?). Yet, it is rare that in our lives, we will not be charmed by at least one musical, may it be one that has been around since before we were born, or something that has been created later on. Maybe because the music is lively and makes you want to move, or maybe because the moral of the story calls to you - and why not? Maybe because they are some of your favorite childhood movies; Disney movies can definitely be seen as Musical.
This week, I will be talking of three musicals and I shall give good points for each, but also not so good point. Of course, if you are cynical to start with, Musicals are probably not for you, because they will rarely end in any other way than the dream, perfect ending (i.e. Rent, coming back to life? Okay...).
Firstly, Hairspray, which came out in July of 2007, was a hit from the moment it hit the screens, and tells the story of chubby Tracy Turnblad who wants to change the world - well, her hometown. I would have to say that the strongest point of this movie is the soundtrack. The songs are fun and they make you want to dance along to them, and most of the cast is also quite amazing - in the tradition of the Hairspray movies and musicals, the role of Edna Turnblad being played by a man could not have been done by someone else than John Travolta. Queen Latifah shines of glamor in her role, and Michelle Pfeiffer yet again take on the vilain role. The teenagers actors were a bit more of a questionable choice, though there is absolutely nothing to say against Elijah Kelley or Nikki Blonsky. However, picking teenage heartthrob Zac Efron for Link Larkin, as talented as we find him out to be, was a big turn off for a lot of fans, and making Amanda Bynes sing was probably not the wisest decision. Overall, a note of 7 on 10 could be given to the movie.
Next, Mamma Mia. Merely a year later, the broadway sensation, filled entirely with songs from the famous 70s band, ABBA, come to us. The best part of this movie, I think, was the image and the scenery. Obviously, Greece is quite gorgeous, and it shows all through the scenes of the movie. The songs, also, are very easy to get caught up in, but obviously, that award goes to the Swedish group ABBA. The cast is most definitely interesting, and though I have to say that Julie Walters is most definitely hilarious and great all through the movie, the thumbs up goes to Colin Firth for his amazing performance and singing skills - definitely glad to find out about those. Amanda Seyfried also plays her role with brio, and there is nothing to say against the main actors of the movie. The main downside would have to be the lack of a presence of a realistic plot, which is usually a problem with most musicals - three men flying across the planet for the wedding of a stranger, find out they mind be her father and in the end decide just not to care about it and enjoy having a third of a daughter. Okay? Still, a good 7.5 out of 10 for that one.
And finally, last but definitely not least, The Sound of Music. Over forty years now since the popular movie made its appearance in the world of cinema that soon became one of the most popular musicals. From the beauty of the songs, written by Rodgers and Hammerstein, to the charisma of the characters and talent of the actors, it seems as though that movie went to search all the good ingredients to get the perfect result. Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer take on their roles of leading actors with talent, and the children are most definitely able to surprise their audience with such a great amount of talent in such young bodies, the youngest actress merely seven at the time of the filming. However, there is of course a bit of a lack when it comes to filming in many different locations, and sometimes it is obvious to the eye that the background is not a real mountain scenery, but merely a stage screen. In spite of this small technical lack, that can easily be forgotten, this movie is a candy for the eyes and ears, and easily gets a 8.5 on 10.
Of course, there are many more musicals that could be mentionned; The Wizard of Oz, Chicago, Singin' in the Rain (which, after over fifty years, still remains at the top of the list when it comes to favorites), and then more recent ones such as High School Musical, but this will have to wait for the next critique. Until then, stay tuned and watch as many movies as you can with an open mind.
A.D.
Recipe of the Month
This month's recipe is a simple, yummy one that can be done all year around, but that is always a big Halloween favorite! There is no baking required, and so it makes it easy to try out wherever you want to, as long as you have the necessary ingredients.
For this recipe of Dirt Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
1 package of chocolate instant pudding or pie filling mix, prepared according to the package directions;
2 cups of chocolate wafers cookies (about 45-50), crushed;
2/3 cups of Chocolate flavor syrup;
1 container of frozen non-dairy whipped topping, thawed; and
1 package of gummy worms.
**Note: If you don't like chocolate or can't eat it, this recipe can easily be done with vanilla or caramel flavored items. Be creative!**
The recipe is very short, and quickly done!
Firstly, combine the cookie crumbs and the chocolate syrup in a medium bowl; put aside 1/4 cup.
Then, layer half of the remaining crumb mixture, half of pudding and half of the whipped topping in a large bowl or eight small bowls. Repeat the layering a second time, and sprinkle with the reserved crumb mixture.
Place the gummy worms on top for decoration, and you've got yourself delicious dirt cakes!
I will be waiting for suggestions for next month's recipes! Til then.
R.E.
Gossip Section
Well it's that time again, time to get all the hottest happenings right here on the Gordon Parks' campus. Whoever thought Halloween was scary, has obviously not seen some of these people's social lives.
Move over February, October seems to be the time for hook ups. A notable list includes: Abigail Donner and Trent Montgomery who've got the love/hate thing going, Andrew Preston and Marley Crane who are both obviously... made for each other, and of course let's not forget the innocence trend from last month carrying over with Aidan Steele and Miranda Stevens, as well as Elijah Emerson and Roxanne Ellison.
Also, Freshman Shelby Summers was seen having a nice little make out session with Junior Chance Edwards in the front lawn. Though we can't exactly say much about the age thing, considering he's only a junior that's bedding a freshman, unlike two above Seniors.
Speaking of more Senior/Freshman couples it seems that Eliana Conti has set her eye on a younger set, a younger set that seems strangely familiar. Blonde, blunt, and a bit out there, looks like she's finally managed to find a younger version of her ex love, good going Eliana. Like the world really needs two Holly's.
And who can forget Holly at a time like this? The senior was seen at the Hurricane a few nights ago, swapping spit with fellow Senior, Tyler Hale. Nice touch Holly, the ex's best friend, I'm sure no one could have guessed how low you'd sink with that one. Especially because the two of them were seen leaving together and later spotted heading toward the dorm buildings.
Looks like just about everyone is starting to get a bit of loving these days because senior Evelynne Snow and junior Ian Reeves were seen flirting up a bit in Barnes and Noble, word is there is even another meeting planned between the two of them. Even nerds need lovin' after all.
Now now, don't think that I've forgotten the most high profile couples, but they're such a mess they need their own section.
First things first, photographer Connor Micklesen finally stepped up to the plate during a History class and confessed his feelings for Addison Blythe, about time you grew some, buddy.
Next, Milo Parker, I've got to say that I speak for everyone when we say we're disappointed in you. Even Britney has more dignity than to go about announcements in a blog. For those of you who haven't read the sure to be infamous blog post yet, Milo Parker and Taylor Smith have made things official, which is sure to be because he really cares. That's why he's been heard confirming certain rumors about his gf, we all knew his big mouth could come in handy someday.
And then, there's little sophomore Owen Graham, step-brother-to-be of Connor Micklesen, also seen having around Addison Blythe lately, rumor is that he is a bit hung up on the older artist. So Connor how does it feel to have your almost family trying to steal your girl?
And what does all this mean? Well here's our take on the whole situation, now Connor - former bad guy from last month - has now turned himself around and let his social reputation go to hell for Addison. Now it's easy to see that Milo is unhappy about Connor being with Addison, so he played the girlfriend card with Taylor to make her jealous, and then Addie went ahead and started to flirt with Owen as a way to get even again. So it looks like it's your move Milo boy, how are you gonna top that?
Speaking of Milo... the prankster has done some pretty odd things in the past, but fall break has got to be one of the weirdest to date, when he was seen walking across the grounds shirtless in a skirt. Anyone else wonder why it took him so long to pursue his drag queen dreams?
Let's back it up a bit toward the beginning of the month when Elle McQueen threw her Birthday Bash down at the Hurricane. It was said to be quite the ball, we're sure that there was plenty of reasons for that, and we aren't talking about the masks. Hey Elle, how come we weren't invited?
Rumor also has it that over fall break a little truth or dare game was held within a dance practice room. Still no word on who was involved, but apparently it was couples only and things got pretty heated. Who knows, maybe the room helped the players to channel some of the dance flexibility.