Category Archives: Entertainment

Entertainment, Movies/TV/Theaters

La La Land review

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lala
photo taken from: https://twitter.com/lalaland

If you have a love for musicals or anything romantic then La La Land is the perfect movie for you. This movie starts out with the two main characters, Mia and Sebastian, who meet on a rather rude note, which gives their relationship a bad start. Even though these two seem to barely have anything in common, they both are struggling creative types that are trying to find their way in life, there’s a spark that they both feel, pushing aside the two bad encounters that they had, which only leads to them to start a love filled relationship that makes everyone’s heart swell.

This film will make you feel all sorts of emotions from sad to happy to disappointed all in a matter of seconds. This Oscar nominee is a brilliant film that has made millions fall in love with it.

La La Land is still showing in theaters, so catch a showtime as soon as you can; you won’t regret it.  

Entertainment, School Life

Dance performance

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On January 19th, 2017, during 3rd hour, Ms. Landreau and Ms. Berger’s dance classes, hosted a dance show. The dance show had all types of dances including: tap, rhythmic, group, and solo dances. The dancers used songs that related to their emotional being; from the way someone looks at their body to their sexual orientation. The dances were full of emotion and spirit each one having its own meaning.

The dance performance used a wide variety of songs. There was a dance for a song in Spanish and a dance with no song at all (to focus more on the expression and body language rather than the rhythm).

Most of the solo dances were based on oneself. The feeling of being lonely or lost, not liking how you are physically, and having feelings others may say are “unnatural” or “not normal” were a few of the topics the dance class decided to focus on.

At the end of the show there was one last dance performed by the IB class. They performed the dance using the song “Where is the love?” by the Black Eyed Peas. Everyone dancing had on a tie, but each tie consisted of a different color representing differences in society as they danced as a whole. The dance had amazing choreography that forced the dancers to rely on each other, emphasizing the importance of teamwork.

The dance performance is different from last year’s with new meaning and choreography. As the diverse choreography and music came together so did the performance. It was an amazing experience to watch, and everyone did a great job as individuals and as a whole.

Editorials/Student Voice, Entertainment

The social commentary of Star Trek

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A month back I was exceptionally bored of my usual routine, of playing video games. Much like the old, tired cliche of how a woman can look into a full closet and have nothing to wear, I had nothing to play. So I went on something I don’t normally go on – Netlfix.

Now, unlike most people, I don’t like Netflix. Or more specifically, I don’t like a lot of shows. I find them dull, boring, or uninteresting. A few of the shows I did like were The Walking Dead, The X-Files, Doctor Who – dystopian or dark shows with airs of mystery. I also like funny things, like W/Bob and David, a very funny but short series.

My most recent interest was shown to me by my mom, like The X-Files beforehand: Star Trek. Specifically, Star Trek The Next Generation.

Now, I want you to know that I don’t plan on dressing up like aliens or whatever, speaking in made up languages…but what I liked about the show is how they blended social commentary into some of the episodes.

For example, one episode deals with the Enterprise hosting two factions very hostile only to each other. I saw parallels between the Soviet Union and U.S., and the Enterprise the U.N. At what point is it acceptable to interfere with the relations of two nations? At what point must you become the peacekeeper? These questions were asked in the episode, and were answered with the Enterprise’s Prime Directive – never interfere. And because of this, some delegates died, much like how people died in Proxy Wars like the Vietnam War.

Another episode is one where they find a planet where women hold all the power, and men are sexuallized and given jobs like secretaries and prostitutes. In the 24th century, humanity is truly equal, and the crew of the Enterprise find this display just as disturbing as the misogynistic past of the U.S. Is it justifiable to put men in this position just like women had been in the past? Is oppositely tilted balances true justice, or just another side of the coin?

Then another episode deals with a society where committing a crime in an area chosen randomly is punished with death. This creates a society full of pleasure and fun, with no crime or chaos at all, with death as the only punishment. Is killing criminals an effective deterrent to stop crime?

I have so far watched about three seasons, and find it fascinating to see the inspirations of some episodes in history and today.

Entertainment

Shawn Mendes tour

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18 year old singer/songwriter Shawn Mendes is one of the biggest singers today as he has had two of his singles reached the Top 20 on Billboard’s Top 100 and Radio Charts.

Shawn got his start after posting a 6 second video on the app, “Vine,” of him singing an acoustic version of Justin Beibers “As Long As You Love Me” on July of 2012. Overnight he got over 100,00 likes and his follower count kept increasing. His fan base grew quickly over a course of a couple of months as he was on Vine, YouTube and Twitter.

When he began posting videos on YouTube, he posted himself doing covers and also posted videos teaching people how to play the guitar. According to an interview he did with The Telegraph UK he claims that, “If you look on YouTube and see some of my first covers you will hear that I did not sound good.” Regardless, he continued to post covers and improve his singing. Now, according to cheat sheet.com, he has over 3.5 million followers on Vine, 2.4 million on Twitter, over a million ‘likes’ on Facebook, and over a million subscribers on YouTube.

Shawn signed with Island Records in June of 2014. He released a 4 song EP, The Shawn Mendes EP which reached No. 1 on iTunes in 37 minutes. He then released his first album, Handwritten on April 14th, 2015, which later on reached No. 1 on Billboard’s 200 chart.

After releasing his sophomore album, Illuminate he has announced his first ever headlining arena world tour for the spring-summer of 2017! According to the website z90.com, his tour will start on April 27th, in the U.K, and will end on August 23rd, in Boston, MA with many more dates yet to be announced in North America and globally.

His newest album, Illuminate, includes his latest hit single “Treat You Better” which has reached the top 10 on both of Billboard’s Hot 100 and Radio Songs chart. Again, according to z90.com, this is Shawn’s second top 10 single on the Hot 100 after “Stitches” reached #4 last year.

Shawn will be in St. Paul, at the Xcel Energy Center on August 6th. If you want to buy tickets, or just get more information about the tour, you can go to, http://shawmendesofficial.com/tour.

If you want to keep up with him, you can follow him on these social media sites:

Twitter – @ShawnMendes

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/user/qzMendShawqz

Facebook – ShawnMendesOfficial

Moxie: @GoMoxieMusic

Entertainment

Carrie Fisher’s life and legacy

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With the recent passing of Carrie Fisher, everyone should take a look back at her life achievements. She suffered a heart attack on December 27, 2016, but she will be remembered for years for all she did. Carrie Fisher was most known for her role in Star Wars as Princess Leia, but that was not nearly all that she did. She was an established author who wrote many books as well as a screenplay for her most well known book, Postcards From the Edge.

She made her film debut in the 1975 film Shampoo, and 2 years later starred in Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope.  This movie kicked her successful career off, and her acting performance gave her many future jobs.

Carrie wasn’t the only famous person in her family. Her mother, Debbie Reynolds, was a very well known actress and singer. She unfortunately passed away, only one day after her daughter, following a severe stroke.

Fisher wasn’t only known for her accomplishments on screen. She publicly came out as someone who suffers from Bipolar disorder, a mental condition that causes major mood shifts very regularly. She also has said she suffered from drug addiction, even admitting she used cocaine during the filming of the Empire Strikes Back. Because of her openness, she was seen as a role model to those who have been through, or are going though, these things.

Carrie’s legacy will be remembered for many years to come; she was a motivation to many – young and old alike.

Entertainment, Movies/TV/Theaters

Highland (post) holiday movie picks

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Everyone knows that Christmas movies are a clear indication that the holidays are truly here. Out of curiosity, we wanted to know what movies Highland favors. We distributed a survey asking students to pick their favorite film out of these five choices: The Polar Express, The Grinch, Home Alone, A Christmas Carol, and Elf. Christmas movies are a great way to spend the holidays and this was the perfect kick off to winter break!

When we surveyed our classes, the results came back, and without a doubt the family classic Home Alone was the favorite Christmas movie. Most people wrote that they liked it because it was funny and entertaining. They said things like:

“It shows that mischief can be mixed with love. True loyalty lies in the heart.”

“It is a funny movie and is great for the family.”

“Because it’s funny and entertaining”

As for the other movies, there were a fair amount of votes for Elf and The Grinch. But it is easy to understand why most of them picked Home Alone. We love all of these great Christmas movies and any one of them could have been the top choice for our Highland community.

Based on our survey’s outcome, Home Alone was deemed the winner as the best Christmas movie of the five given. The movie has always been labelled by many as a Christmas essential, and we here at Highland would have to agree. If you’re looking for a light-hearted family film to get over the holidays, or anytime, Home Alone is a perfect choice.

Entertainment, Movies/TV/Theaters

Top 10 holiday music albums

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The holiday season is for spending time with family and friends. What better thing to do then listen to some great holiday music while you do just that. Holiday music has been around for many years dating back to the 13th century. Today many talented artist create new holiday music or give their voice to old classics. Through the years there have been lots of holiday albums, but we are going to count down our picks for our “Top 10 Best Holiday Music Albums Ever.”  

  1.  Noel: Josh Groban

His one and only holiday album, Josh Groban brings the spirit to you this season. Released in October of 2007 Noel is one of the best selling holiday albums and best selling albums ever. Selling over 3 million copies in 2007 it is easy to see why people love it so much. The melodious vocals of Groban complement the piano that is usually present and the choir in the background perfectly. Highlighted by the “The First Noel (with Faith Hill)” this album makes you feel in the mood to relax with family and friends on a cold day.

  1.  Christmas Portrait: The Carpenters

This album was The Carpenters only Christmas album, and was released on October 13, 1978. Since the album’s release, there has been about 1,950,000 copies sold, and the album has reached a peak position of number 93 on the Billboard 200 in 2015.

  1. The Beach Boys’: Christmas Album

Released in 1964 at the peak popularity of The Beach Boys, this album will make you say “Merry Christmas, Baby!” With almost all original songs, this album brought a lot to the table. Highlighted by the hit single “Little Saint Nick” the Beach Boys tight knitted harmony and swinging beats translate perfectly into great Christmas music.

  1. Michael Buble: Christmas

The album Christmas is Michael Buble’s second Christmas album. It was released October 21, 2011. This album has reached number 1 on the Billboard 200, and was his third album to reach this position.

  1. Mariah Carey: Merry Christmas

Mariah Carey is very well known for her Christmas music, and this album has been one of her biggest claims to fame. The album features the song “All I Want for Christmas is You,” which is  one of the most popular Christmas songs to this day. The album was Mariah Carey’s fourth Christmas album recorded, and was released November 1, 1994.

  1.  Charlie Brown Christmas

Accompanying the classic Christmas movie a Charlie Brown Christmas, Vince Guaraldi’s melodies make wonderful holiday music. These songs have gained a good reputation, and many people love listening to this music during the holiday season.

  1. A Christmas Gift For You: Phil Spector

A Christmas Gift For You is an album where Phil Spector collaborated with some of the best musicians of the time to create one good holiday album. Phil Spector, most famously known for his role in creating the Wall of Sound, recorded a rockin’ Christmas album in 1963. Highlighted by The Ronettes rendition of “Sleigh Ride” this album will get you rockin’ and rollin’ this holiday season.

  1. White Christmas: Bing Crosby

Bing Crosby’s White Christmas album is a wonderful trip back in time when vocals were all you needed. This smash hit of an album headlined by the songs “White Christmas” and “Mele Kalikimaka” is a measuring tool for all other Holiday music albums.

  1. The Christmas Song: Nat King Cole

The Christmas Song is one of the all time classic albums for Christmas. Headlined by the Christmas anthem “The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas To You)” this album has reached critical acclaim in the music world.

  1. Christmas Album: Elvis

Elvis is most well known for his rock and roll music, but he did release a very popular Christmas album in 1957. This was his first of two Christmas albums, his second was released in 1971. Since its release, the album has sold around 15 million albums worldwide. It shows some of the best music from Elvis even as a Christmas album. Some say it was his last “real” album.

Travel/Food

DIY Christmas treats

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One of the best things to do is eat. But it’s a lot more fun when you get to eat holiday snacks and treats, because making them is even more fun, and surprisingly easy. During these past two days I’ve made a handful of treats that I’ll share with you.

Everyone loves chocolate, and almost everything goes good with chocolate. One of the simplest treats you can make are chocolate covered pretzels. All you’ll need is chocolate melts, pretzel rods or regular pretzels and anything you want to use to decorate them; I used white chocolate. All you need to do is melt the chocolate in either the microwave – mixing it every 30 seconds – or in a double boiler. Once you have your chocolate melted you want to dip your pretzels in it and set them on a cookie sheet covered in either wax paper or aluminum foil. If you choose to decorate your pretzels, you can add sprinkles or white chocolate to create stripes, but remember that you want to do it before the chocolate completely dries. I think these are the easiest and quickest treats you can make.

Something else you can make is Christmas tree Rice Krispy treats. They take a little more time but the end result is worth it. You’ll need the rice cereal, marshmallows, butter and green food coloring. First you need to melt your butter on the stove, and once the butter is completely melted you want to add your marshmallows and mix it until the marshmallows have been completely mixed in. Then, add the green food coloring and take the mixture off the stove. Start adding the cereal to the marshmallow mix and mix until well combined. Let it cool a little, but not too much, and then put a little bit of butter on your hands and start forming the mix into the trees. If you want a little extra something, you can add red M&M’S to act as ornaments. Let them cool for about an hour, or less if you put them in the fridge.

These are just a couple of the treats you can make for the holidays, and if you wrap them up in a cute bag and twist tie, or a Christmas box, you can also give them as a little present.

Links to the full recipes with measurement :

http://www.rachelcooks.com/2015/12/16/easy-christmas-tree-rice-krispie-treats-recipe/

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/chocolate-covered-pretzels-with-sprinkles-recipe2.html

Advice/How To, Entertainment

Stocking stuffers for teens 2016

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As your teenager gets older, their interests may tend to differ from yours. Shopping is harder because you don’t know what to get them, or you might have a tight budget, or you don’t know if they will like it, and maybe you aren’t sure if what you want to get them is “in.” This article is a guide to small gifts (perfect for stockings) that are popular to the current teenage generation.

Earphones/Earbuds

Earphone/earbuds are a perfect gift, with technology, electronics, and music being at a societal high. The cost varies, however, the most efficient brands seem to be Sony or Apple.

Gums and Mints

A common essential for teens in school are gums and mints. Some claim it helps them focus, others just enjoy being able to pop something flavorful in their mouth throughout the day. It is a common stocking stuffer and is inexpensive as well.

Junk Food

Teens love junk food. Chips have been around for years and have maintained their status as one of the most popular types of junk food. Along with that, candy, pop, and sugary treats like doughnuts are consumed with great pleasure.

Caribou and Starbucks Gift Cards

Sleepy, hardworking high school students love to indulge in coffee drinks, whether or not they have much coffee actually in them. Specifically, Caribou and Starbucks are the more popular chains people go to.

Gas Gift Cards

If you have a teen, they are probably driving or will be soon. This is a resourceful way to give your kid money for gas in order to secure they will use it on gas.

Elites/Socks

Socks are a good way to go. Providing warmth and style, they are convenient to receive in the winter. Elites would be a good gift for the sporty type of teen. Another popular alternative is fuzzy socks.

Chapsticks

Chapsticks are the perfect stocking stuffer. It is an essential that everyone loses before it’s gone. This is the perfect opportunity to help your teens stock up.

Lotion

A good stuffer to ensure your kid/s stay moisturized throughout the winter is lotion.

Video Games

Video games are perfect for gamers who always want the newest games released.

Ornaments

Gifting an ornament is a good gift for your teen who will soon move on to live in their own place with their own tree.

Nail Polish

An inexpensive gift for someone who loves being creative with their nails and making them their own personalized accessory is nail polish.

Phone Case

A new way to accessorize is alternating your phone case and/or having more than one. This is a good gift for both genders. A good way to find a nice variety of cases to choose from is to go to a phone accessory kiosk located in most malls.

Keychain Lanyards

More of a practical gift, keychains are a good organization tool for teens with keys for their houses, cars, etc. You even have the option of buying one or making a lanyard on your own.

Wallet

Another practical gift, to help organize money and cards, is a wallet. No more money falling out of pockets accidentally.

Compact Mirror

A compact mirror is a useful tool when on the go to check and make sure your appearance is up to par, or to re-apply any makeup you may have on. Directed traditionally towards females.

Face Wash/Creams

Teens = Hormones! Acne is highly common among teens who are growing into adults. Help them maintain hygiene by getting them something to wash their face with or additional help from acne creams, etc.

TV Show/Movie DVDs

Entertainment plays a major role in mainstream teen society. If your kid has shown interest in a tv show or any movies, buying it is a good gift idea so they can have a permanent copy to watch at their leisure.

Mini Tool Kit

A mini tool kit is a good gift for older teens who will soon have to fix things on their own when in college and later on in life. This is a good starter kit, providing the essentials to make minor repairs.

Perfume/Cologne

If you smell good, you feel good. Gifting your teen with a nice scent can help them step up their charm and give them character. Once people are older they tend to be defined by their “scent” usually provided by their perfume/cologne of choice. This gift would be the start of that.

Advice/How To, Entertainment

Fun things to do this winter

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So many people each year stay inside during the winter. Turns out that it can be very unhealthy for you. Getting outside, especially in the winter, will help you so much in the long run. Being indoors all day everyday in the winter can cut off your healthy bacteria and make you sick while we are already so far into cold and flu season. So why not get out, find some stuff to do, and have fun!

Sledding Hills:

There are so many places you could go sledding this winter near Highland Park. There is of course the Highland Park water towers, and also the recreation center which is also connected to the library. Also some other hills near Highland Park is the Meriam Park and Baker Park hills both are very steep. If you don’t see the hill closest to you try this website: http://www.visitsaintpaul.com/things-to-do/winter-fun/sledding-hills-in-saint-paul/

Highland Park Community Center

1978 Ford Pkwy. Saint Paul, MN 55116

Highland Park (behind water tower)

1400 Highland Pkwy. Saint Paul, MN 55116

Baker Park

209 W. Page St. Saint Paul, MN 55107

Merriam Park Recreation Center

2000 St. Anthony Ave. Saint Paul, MN 55104

Ice Skating:

A very popular activity for the winter in Minnesota is ice skating, as we are the famous state of hockey. There are many places you can go ice skating, or play some games of hockey, or just boot skate on a rink all around the Saint Paul area. The biggest rink, and most popular outdoor rink, is the Wells Fargo Winterskate. That takes place downtown Saint Paul in front of the Landmark Center. There are many other rinks outdoor as well. The closest outdoor rink to Highland Park is the Palace Recreation Center or the Edgecumbe Recreation Center. If none of these rinks are close to you can refer to the website below to find yours: 

https://www.stpaul.gov/departments/parks-recreation/activities/winter-spring-activities/ice-rinks

Pioneer Press Treasure Hunt:

While most of us are eagerly awaiting 2017 for new years revolutions some are exited for 2017 for the annual Pioneer Press Treasure Hunt. The treasure hunt is a tradition for some people since 1952. The hunt is for a medallion that you can go search for all around Ramsey county starting on Sunday, January 22nd. The medallion, if found, is worth $10,000 and until found, there are clues in the Pioneer Press Newspaper everyday or on the  Twin Cities Website. The treasure hunt actually has its own hotline so when the hunt starts the hotline will let you know the current status of the hunt.

So have a fun winter and get out and do something!